Last week we talked about the purpose of reviews for the reader. Today we’ll focus on the purpose of reviews for an author. And then we will wrap up with some other thoughts about reviews.

First, let’s remember what a review is.

A review, of either a book, product, movie, or whatever, is a critical evaluation of that object or event.

What does this mean for a reader or an author? (We are going to focus on authors in this post. You can read the post for readers HERE.

For the Author:

A review is for:

• Spreading word about your book.
• Seeing what your readers think.
• Learning to be a better writer.
• Learning to deal with criticism.

A review is NOT for:

• Dictating what readers should think about your book.
• Pushing only 4 & 5 star ratings.
• Bashing reviewers who didn’t like your book.
• Getting your friends to criticize those who leave low reviews.
• Debating with a reviewer you disagree with.

A Review is not really for (but sometimes happens):

• A reader gushing over your story but never really reviewing it.

Are reviews helpful to authors?
Yes. They spread the word about their book either by good reviews or by not so good reviews. Either way, the word is getting out and that helps. Reviews can also boost a book in ranking so more people will see it.

Is it okay for an author to ask their readers to leave a review?
Yes, as long as they aren’t demanding a 5 star review. An author should never tell someone what sort of a review they should write, but asking a reader to consider leaving a review after they’ve read a book is fine.

Have you ever been asked by an author to give a 5 star review? I have. Did I leave a 5 star review? No, I think I left a 2 star. Do you write reviews for any of the books you read? Why or why not?