D.V. Stone
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  • D. V. Stone Author
  • The Mortar & Pestle Series
  • The Shield-Mates Fantasy Series.
  • Lake Unami Stories
  • Impact Series Contemporary Romantic Suspense.
  • Agent Sam Carter Mid-Grade Paranormal Mysteries
  • Around the Fire Blog
  • Insider Looks
  • D. V.'s Reviews
  • Around the Fire Video Reviews
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Around the Fire News

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

5/4/2022

 
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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!

Susie Black link
5/4/2022 02:50:53 pm

This is fabulous. I posted something similar on my website and on social media a while back. This is something every author should be addressing. Thanks for doing this. I gladly retweeted.
Susie Black

D. V.
5/4/2022 02:54:39 pm

Thanks for visiting. I've plucked this string before. Not sure how to get it to resonate with readers. D.

shirley link
5/4/2022 04:09:00 pm

Great suggestions so readers don't feel as if they have to write a book to review a book. Two or three sentences will work. Like this. See what I'm doing? I'm reviewing your blog post. Done!

D. V. Stone
5/4/2022 04:29:46 pm

Lol! Thanks for rhe review 😎

Jan Sikes
5/5/2022 10:37:33 am

A great post on reviews, Donna. I was thinking about that word today. To re-view means to look again at something. :) Love it!

Ilona Fridl link
5/5/2022 12:53:05 pm

Very good advice. Now if we just can get readers to do it.


Comments are closed.

    Your Host D.V. Stone

    Award winning multi-genre author and blogger. Fantasy, romance, mid-grade. Nothing better than a campfire, book, and glass of wine. Okay maybe there is.📚

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