The big question that has been discussed online recently.
From my personal point of view I absolutely love it when an author comments on my reviews, it shows that they genuinely interested in what I, as a reviewer, think of their writing and its not just an avenue to get reviews posted on sites such as Amazon, Goodreads etc. It is great to know that the author appreciates your time in reading their book and it encourages you to keep on reviewing. I even get a little excited when I know the author has read my review !!
Although I do think the author has to be gracious enough to accept the good and the bad reviews, there is no point in asking someone to read their book and completely disregard any negative feedback or even become annoyed at the reviewer. If a reviewer feels it necessary to point out some negativity the author should see this in a positive way to understand how a reader might think and to take on board their views, as this is one of the few chances to hear the true thoughts of a reader.
Alternatively the same will go for a reviewer, there are no courses or exams on how to review a book, therefore any feedback, good or bad, from the author should be considered and can only go towards improving your reviews in the future.
Alternatively the same will go for a reviewer, there are no courses or exams on how to review a book, therefore any feedback, good or bad, from the author should be considered and can only go towards improving your reviews in the future.
I always give my honest opinion on the books I review and have been lucky enough, up to now, to enjoy all the ones I have currently read. Some a lot more than others. In fact one of the most important things I have learnt since I started to review is not to decline a book simply on its cover or genre. This has happened a couple of times now, where normally I wouldn't have chosen the book and it has turned out to the one of the best books I have read, which then makes that book even more special and memorable.
What are your views, should an author comment on reviews?
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Great post. I definitely like comments too.
ReplyDeleteI too appreciate it when authors comment on reviews. My policy is not to waste time slagging off books, so I only write reviews of books I've really liked.
ReplyDeleteCheers!
Author weighing in here... I DO like to leave comments, particularly on blogs (not so much on GoodReads or -- shudder -- Amazon), even if it's to say thanks for taking the time to read my book. I got a review yesterday in which the reviewer said my new book disappointed. I felt bad -- but I also told her, quite truthfully, that her criticism gave me a new angle of insight and for that, I was/am grateful.
ReplyDeleteas an author I make it a point to comment on every reviewers blog when a review of one of my books goes up... even if it is a bad review (which I've had very few of)
ReplyDeleteI think it is just the right thing to do!
I've never had an author comment on one of my reviewers. So far, I've only posted one review that was requested so I guess it's understandable.
ReplyDeleteI'm not the type of blogger to only post the good things about a book, if I thought it wasn't a good book and needed more work before publishing; I'll voice that opinion. But I won't lie, if I know my review is more negative than positive I'd feel 70% bad if the author read it.
I love it when the author leaves comments. I left a comment about a book once, and the author replied to my comment. I felt so special that the author was interested in what I said. (It was a cookbook author, and had asked how about my success with his recipe.)
ReplyDeleteDanielle
I love it when an author comments. It shows that they appreciate that I took the time to post about their book.
ReplyDeleteThat's funny because the first time I saw an author comment on someone's review, I was kind of shocked/surprised, but then I thought that was nice of them to take the time to read the review and comment. so I think it's great.
ReplyDeleteI love getting author comments, but I also understand that not all authors have the time, or feel comfortable with it. I don't think it should be viewed negativly when they do. I get a nice warm feeling when they take time to thank me for the review, and then I typically thank them for authoring the story. But I don't expect this interaction.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand I think it would be beneficial for authors to comment, especially if the bloggers followers are asking questions, or commenting. It would be a quick way to gain more fans, and readers. Just my opinion though! :)
I always appreciate when the author responds as well. I think we all have to take constructive criticism and just learn from it.
ReplyDeleteThe only time it was weird for me was when I didn't like the book so much and the publisher and author both commented on how much I loved it... as in didn't read my review and seemed to be promoting it on my site via comments. I thought it might have kept other commenters away initially.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, I've spent soooo much time making sure it's a really detailed, thoughtful review and then not gotten an author comment when I saw most of the other tour stops had and wondered what I'd said that offended!!
Why in the world would I feel both ways?!?! Apparently, it's a big deal whether the author comments or not - how often, how quickly. Great question, for sure.
Of course, if I'm a raving fan, I fall off my chair over any response. *cough* Apparently, authors got their work cut out for 'em regarding some bloggers, like me. Yikes!
I've had several authors comment on my review of their book and I am always honored to have them take time to visit my blog and respond to my feelings about their book. I get excitd everytime and go running to my family that "the author just visited!!!" It's special!
ReplyDeleteI love it when an author comments! It makes me feel so good that they take the time to read what I wrote!
ReplyDeleteI've never thought of it before but I think it would be awesome if an author commented on the readers comments :)
ReplyDeleteI think that is really neat that they would take the time to respond. But I also think they really need to be gracious. I do read reviews (for any product I buy) and a negative review doesn't mean I won't buy the item. I actually like to know the good and the bad. So it gives me a more well rounded view of the item. But I really dislike people who "review" books ( i.e. post their opinion) on books they HAVEN'T read. Then the author should have the right to blast them. Haha.
ReplyDeleteKari
www.mommytoelodie.tumblr.com
"Although I do think the author has to be gracious enough to accept the good and the bad reviews, there is no point in asking someone to read their book and completely disregard any negative feedback or even become annoyed at the reviewer. "
ReplyDeleteVery valid point you discussed there! I agree! Thank you for being a part of this event =)