Okay, so I'm in front of my electric fireplace. Come on, it counts. A special edition of Around The Fire with your host, D.V. Stone

One of the big discussions going on in the author world is oh wait there's two. Let me work my original thought first. Reviews. Easy there, don't be afraid. I can't tell you how many people tell me, "I loved you book." Now, don't get me wrong. I'm thankful that they do. It bolsters me to continue even when things are hard. But, do you know how much more I'd be lifted up? Yep. A review. What do reviews do for readers an authors? Well, they help sift the reader through, I don't know, a gazillion books. The information helps other bookworms to find stories that will matter to them. And for authors? Did you know if a book has only a few reviews, even if they are all five star, the selling agency won't show them to potential readers? It kind of like they tell everyone what to read instead of letting intelligent people choose for themselves. 

So, how do I write a book review? It's not that hard really, especially with technology. First of all, a review doesn't have to be long. Actually you can just click a star on most sites but if you want to help other readers and writers out, here are some pointers.

A couple of sentences describing what the book is about and why you liked it is perfect.

Here’s an example of a quick review I did on Goodreads for Edge of Collapse. I gave it 4 stars

A fast-paced, chilling read. The main characters are both damaged but survivors. You root for them. There’s even a damaged yet courageous dog. The world-building is excellent, and you feel the cold seeping into you while you read. The antagonist is horrendous, and I only wish the end was tighter. I’m already reading the second book.

See how I answered most of these questions in seven sentences?

• Don’t give any spoilers or revealing plot twists. A good rule of thumb is don’t write any detail about anything happening from the middle of the book. Unless it’s a cliffhanger or part of a series. It’s probably helpful, however, to mention if it’s a series that needs to be read in order.
•  Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself…
• What did you like about the book? Was the story satisfying? Suspenseful? A tearjerker?
• How did the story make you feel? Happy? Sad? Inspired?
• Did you have a favorite character? Why?
• Did the story keep you guessing?
• Was there a favorite part in the book?
• Did the story grip you and keep you turning the pages?
• It happens—Was there anything you disliked about the book?
• In the end, you could mention if you would recommend the book.
• Some sites let you give a star rating. For example, a four out of five if you like.

Okay, now you are armed with information. Don't let the big guys tell everyone who they should read. Your pen (okay keyboard) is mightier than their sword (okay bazillion dollars). I'd love to hear from you. There's a little place below called comments. If you prefer to be anonymous send me an email to d.v.stone.wordsmith@gmail.com abd I'll post your thoughts anonymously.

​Happy reviewing!

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