Wednesday, July 6, 2016

IWSG - QUESTIONS?

The Insecure Writer’s Support Group
 



Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. Be sure to link to this page and display the badge in your post.

As Alex say's, let’s rock the neurotic writing world!

Twitter is @TheIWSG and hashtag #IWSG

And the crew is revving up IWSG Day to make it more fun and interactive! Every month, they'll announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG Day post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.

Today's Question:

What's the best thing someone has ever said about your writing?

My answer:

When they compared my writing to that of Stephen King, an author I've always respected. Although, it was also the reason given by a few readers for why they would not finish my book, Memories of Murder. 
Still, I'll take it as a compliment!





The IWSG is also gearing up to announce the next anthology topic
and you get a vote on what that topic will be.
Just go HERE!




Today I have a question regarding reviews: 

When someone posts a review on their blog should you respond with a comment - a thank you? I've always tried to hit the 'like' button on Goodreads, and thank a blogger that I know with an email message, but will leaving a comment 'thank you' mean that the Amazon police will see it and delete the review? 



How do you respond to a great review from someone you know 
vs. someone you don't. 

Is there a certain etiquette to be followed?


167 comments:

Pat Garcia said...

Hi,
I don't have a book out yet, but I do write reviews when I read a book. A thank you is for me good old homeschool training that says I appreciate you taking the time out to read my work and writing a review. No writer has excess time regardless of whether they are a blogger, author, or whatever, so it shouldn't hurt an author reviewed to say thanks.
Shalom aleichem,
Patricia

J.H. Moncrieff said...

I've thanked reviewers a couple of times, but I've heard from a few authors that you're not supposed to. Whatever. If someone thanked me for a review, I wouldn't hold it against them.

A few people have become friends after reviewing my book. That was a very cool, but unexpected, benefit of reviews!

M.J. Fifield said...

I have no idea if there's certain etiquette to be followed, but if I see a review of my book posted on a blog that I read everyday, I do make sure to thank them for taking the time.

And it's very cool that your work's been compared to Stephen King. Such a compliment!

Nicola said...

How fab to be compared to Stephen King! A great compliment indeed - even though I must admit, I can't read all of Stephen King books (just not my thing) but I love reading yours :) Great post, Yolanda.

Cathrina Constantine said...

To be compared to The King is Awesome!!!!!!!!

If someone has a review of my book on their blog, I do comment. And I also press like on Goodreads. I never even thought of the Amazon police deleting a review, but now I will....

Thank you for co-hosting this month Yolanda.

Crystal Collier said...

Yay! Nothing better than being compared to an author you love.

I've never had an issue with Amazon and reviews, and I always thank bloggers, when I know about the review--and then shout about it to every corner of the virtual world. (If it's good.)

Lynn La Vita said...

Being compared to Stephen King is a wonderful compliment. At the very least, it must feel awfully good. ! Do you feel you've reached your stride? Thank you for co-hosting IWSG. I appreciate your time and effort plus it gives me a chance to "meet" you.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Great compliment.
I'll leave a comment on a blog post, but on Goodreads, I just hit the like button.

Tamara Narayan said...

I don't know if authors expect a thank-you for an Amazon review posting. For a blog post review, I can see sending a thank-you, but you are right about Amazon police. I wouldn't want to get on their bad side.

I would love to be compared to Stephen King. He's my favorite author.

Christine Rains said...

Like Stephen King, now that's an awesome compliment. If someone posts on their blog, I will leave a comment. I try to always thank people in one way or another for reviews.

Jemi Fraser said...

That's a HUGE compliment! King writes brilliantly :)

Anonymous said...

Thank you for co-hosting.

I would love to be compared to Stephen King, he's one of my favorite authors. As for thanking someone for a review on their blog, I would. If they took their time to write it, and I see it, I think it's the right thing to do. I didn't even think about Amazon though.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Good questions. I agree with the others, readers don't expect a thank you for doing a review. As for being compared to Stephen King ... Wow! Congratulations. As for posting etiquette, I wrote a post about that very subject in the IWSG newsletter this month. I think it's a must to respond by visiting the commenter's blog and reciprocating. That's how IWSG grows. Thanks for co-hosting, Yolanda!

Sandee said...

I don't know what the right thing is to do, but I do comment on reviews. I don't write so I'm guessing this is different for you. I've read more than one book because of a review. I think that deserves a comment.

Have a fabulous day. ☺

Toi Thomas said...

Being compared to King is wonderful. That says a lot about your skill.
As for review etiquette, I try to play it safe. If I see a review of my book on a blog I will leave a simple "thank you for your time" comment, but beyond that I just hit 'like' elsewhere.

Pat Hatt said...

That is an awesome comparison indeed. Ugg to the Amazon police. I thank them, liked I thanked you one the comment you left on my blog and here too. But yeah, I try not to one up or anything to tick off the amazon police.

Bish Denham said...

I think being compared to King or any author you admire is a wonderful thing.

I think a thank-you for someone posting a review on their blog is very appropriate. For Goodreads and Amazon I think a simple like is appropriate. I've heard it's not a good idea to get into commenting on reviews in those forums, particularly if the review is negative.

Bish Denham said...

I think being compared to King or any author you admire is a wonderful thing.

I think a thank-you for someone posting a review on their blog is very appropriate. For Goodreads and Amazon I think a simple like is appropriate. I've heard it's not a good idea to get into commenting on reviews in those forums, particularly if the review is negative.

Michelle Wallace said...

Stephen King? Wow. That's a HUGE compliment!
I always leave reviews after reading a book. However, I have no idea with regards to review etiquette on the part of the author.
Lots of authors say you shouldn't even read the reviews of your books. I don't have a book out yet, so I'm not sure. But for me, good manners will dictate.
A simple thank you should suffice, or as some have said, hit the like button.
Happy IWSG Day, Yolanda!
Thank you for co-hosting the IWSG this month!
Writer In Transit

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Stephen King is huge.

I'll leave a blog comment, but I've heard you really shouldn't comment there, either.

Unknown said...

If they're on Twitter, I usually tweet them and thank them (and if they've tweeted the review, retweet it) or the same on Facebook. I'm cautious about commenting on the blog itself in case someone thinks I'm pandering.

Patsy said...

I'd say that was a compliment, Yolanda! My work was once compared with that of Alexander McCall Smith which I was very happy about.

Samantha Bryant said...

If someone takes time to review more book more thoroughly (like on a blog or somewhere), I always at least thank them, even if it's not glowing. If it's on Amazon or Goodreads, though, I'll just click on "like" or "found helpful" because anything else feels awkward. Actually, the whole darn process is awkward come to think of it. Luckily, I have a lot of practice at awkward!

@mirymom1 from
Balancing Act

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Now that is an awesome compliment! :)

If someone mentions my work on his/her blog, I try to comment and say thanks. I still haven't worked out a set system for what to do on Amazon and Goodreads.

Chemist Ken said...

I wouldn't thank them in public. Many readers might be put off by that. But there's nothing wrong with sending them a thank you by email.

Thanks for co-hosting this month's IWSG.

Chrys Fey said...

A comparison to Stephen King? Yes, that is awesome!

When I know someone is posting a review of my book on their blog, I do stop by and leave a "thank you" comment.

Jennifer Lane said...

Hi Yolanda, I missed the idea of a monthly question but I love it! And how wonderful to be compared to Stephen King. The age-old should I respond to reviews question...I really struggle with this. I do like the review on goodreads and sometimes I will privately message the reviewer, unless it's another author and then I will comment on the author's review because authors usually like that.

Laura Clipson said...

That's certainly a tricky question, I think I would feel awkward if I didn't say thank you; it's just good manners. It's ridiculous that we should have to worry about this kind of thing.
Stephen King - that's pretty impressive! I'm just happy when someone says they've enjoyed my writing :)

Juneta key said...

I have on author who always comments back when I leave a review. None of mine have ever been deleted, so I think it depends on what is said and interaction whether it will ding an alert. IMO

Great compliment. That's awesome.

Happy IWSG Day
Juneta @ Writer's Gambit

Sandra Cox said...

I'd say that's one of the best compliments ever! :)

Elizabeth Alsobrooks said...

King? Woohoo! Good one! Most say no go on remarking in public on good or bad reviews, if you know them or not. Nada. Never. Readers & reviewers like to feel they have free reign to voice their opinions... A private thank you is your call. On a personal blog, if you know them, a thank you is fine, says I.

Michael Di Gesu said...

NICE!!!! That's some compliment... Still, I can't believe they wouldn't finish the story... It's too good not to finish!

Since I have never had anything published or reviewed, I can't answer that question... It's good information to know for the future, though.

Julie Flanders said...

Oh my gosh that's a wonderful compliment!! I kind of worship Stephen King so I am super-impressed. And that person was correct too - you are a fantastic writer.

alexia said...

Very cool compliment!!

N. R. Williams said...

Hi Yolanda
The best thing that has been said about my book is: "This is the best book of the decade." Made my heart flutter.

Amazon won't pull a review for a simple 'Thank you." Just don't use the words 'friend' or a family member word such as 'brother.' If someone post a negative review, don't say anything at all. Grab the nearest pillow and beat the feathers out.

I'll be leaving a review on your first book soon, just finished. Like my writing, I always have to think about what I'm going to say.
Nancy

Sheena-kay Graham said...

It all depends on how you want to thank reviewers I guess. As long as you are not mean I don't see a problem with saying thank you. A comparison to Mr. King is a life changing compliment.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

I've always heard reviews are for other readers, not for the author (even though we often need a certain number of positive reviews to advertise on bargain book e-mail lists). If I know the reviewer, I might thank him or her privately, but otherwise I wouldn't say anything that might make the reviewer uncomfortable.

Murees Dupè said...

Thank you for co-hosting, Yolanda. I always thank people for a review on their blog. However, I have noticed on Amazon, that certain reviewers start off by saying they got a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. So if your reviewers can just mention that they bough your book and that they were giving an honest opinion, it should be fine. I think they track who you hang out with on social media, but if you mentioned you bought their book fair and square and are giving an honest review, they might not be so quick to delete the comment. Wishing you well.

Murees Dupè said...

Being compared to Stephen King is definitely a compliment. I think you have officially arrived. Well done:)

Anonymous said...

A comparison to Stephen King? That's amazing! He's my all time favorite horror writer. Guess I'm going to have to pick your novels. :)

As far as reviews go, I'm on the fence with that. If the review is positive and you know the reviewer, you can thank them privately, unless you're willing to thank a reviewer that hasn't given you a great review as well. I've had Amazon pull reviews I've written even when I had NO connection to the author. They're funny that way.

Thank you so much for co-hosting today. It's much appreciated by all, I'm sure.

kimlajevardi.com said...

Getting compared to King is awesome.Thanks for co-hosting!

Liza said...

Stephen King is HIGH praise indeed! I'd hold that compliment tight.

J.Q. Rose said...

Etiquette for responding to reviews is not usually a topic I see discussed. But looking toward using good manners, I think a simple thank you would be fine whether you know the reviewer or not. No gushing or complaining though. Thanks for co-hosting!!

J.Q. Rose said...

Etiquette for responding to reviews is not usually a topic I see discussed. But looking toward using good manners, I think a simple thank you would be fine whether you know the reviewer or not. No gushing or complaining though. Thanks for co-hosting!!

Anonymous said...

To have your writing compared to Stephen King — can't get much better than that. I've heard conflicting advice on responding to reviews. Thanks for posing such a great question. The comments are very educational. And thank you for co-hosting!

Unknown said...

Wow, that is quite the compliment! I don't ever respond to reviews unless it was something my publisher or a blogger set up (like a review tour), then I just thank them for their review. Sometimes people tag me in their reviews on Twitter with a question, and I'll respond then.

Cherie Colyer said...

That is a wonderful compliment. :)

L.G. Keltner said...

I'd take that as a compliment too!

Loni Townsend said...

That is a great compliment. I don't know if Amazon polices blog reviews, but politeness and good manners seem to be the best route. Thanks for co-hosting!

Unknown said...

I don't think you can get a better compliment than being compared to the King himself! I thank reviewers on their blogs. I don't think Amazon bothers to read blog reviews. It's probably more dangerous to friend people on GR since Amazon owns it now so has total access.

Nancy Gideon said...

Lucky you, to breathe the same creative air as one of my writing heroes! Thanks for co-hosting today, Yolanda! As for reviews, I always say "Thank you!" (must be my upbringing!) and Like. And share. Spread that good stuff around.

Denise Covey said...

Hi Yolanda! What a great compliment to be likened to Stephen King. That's one to treasure. And I like to thank people for reviews. And it's nice when an author thanks me. But I know all about the Amazon police, but they do have a comment section under reviews and I see no need to ignore it.

Thanks for co-hosting! I know the time it takes!

Have a wonderful month!

Denise :-)

Nicki Elson said...

I had to set aside a Stephen King novel once, too - and it was exactly because his description was so, so good. That's an awesome compliment.

Huh, I have no idea if Amazon would note a comment on a review. I write in the romance genre, and reviewers there can get kinda crazy about what they see as author interference, so I rarely comment on a review publicly.

Susan Kane said...

That is quite a question. It is a "wow" compliment to have that comparison! Having a long-distance comment is kinda hard.

Olga Godim said...

Wow - a comparison to Stephen King. Kudos for you.
You raise a good question about reviews. I don't know about the others, but I never replied to a review unless I asked for it. Then I said "Thank you" in a personal email. Perhaps it was the wrong policy. Not sure.

Stephen Tremp said...

Yolanda, how cool is that! I would love to be compared to Stephen King. Hey, with my name maybe I'm half way there.

Lidy said...

Thanks for co-hosting today Yolanda! Wow, that’s cool that your writing been compared to Stephen King. I remember that the first Stephen King book I’ve read was Dolores Clairborne. I don’t know if there’s an etiquette but I thank them for the review on the blog and like it on Goodreads. Amazon is an enigma so unless I can contact the reviewer privately, I leave it alone.

Mildred R Holmes said...

Thanks for stopping by. Reviews and comments? I only have a couple books up on JukePop Serials and there, it is encouraged for a response if someone comments. I decided this would help me become a better writer without the hooplah at Amazon or Good Reads. However, I have made it a point on my blogs from the start that I only post what I, personally think. There are some ups and downs to being a public figure, even if I'm only known locally.
Stephen King, eh? I still get the shivers from my memory of the night I read 'Salem's Lot. I was in college at the time. And Carrie? I'm thinking I might just pick up a hooror stoy. Will let you know, as I haven't read horror for years.

Fundy Blue said...

Thanks for co-hosting the IWSG today, Yolanda! I'd be thrilled to be compared with Stephen Kind, an author whom I admire a great deal. I just recently read his "11/22/63," and I could hardly put it down! What a wonderful compliment about your writing!

I really don't feel that I can help you with your question. You are so far ahead of me in the book writing process! My instinct would be to contact the reviewer privately, especially with Amazon.

Happy writing this month!

Rachna Chhabria said...

Hi Yolanda, its such a huge compliment being compared to Stephen King.

As for thanking people for a review of your book, you can always thank them on Twitter or Facebook or email them. That's what writers do when I review their books for the newspapers. They share my review of their books on all their sites and like it wherever I have shared it.

Rachna Chhabria
Co-host IWSG
Rachna's Scriptorium

Tyrean Martinson said...

That's an awesome compliment!
As for reviews, I usually click "like" too because I don't want Amazon to kick me out . . . but a thank you now and then seems appropriate. I like the suggestions that everyone else had.

Cynthia said...

That's really cool to be compared to Stephen King!

Since I don't have a book out, I don't know too much about the world of reviews. I think it's fine to say thank you to someone for a positive review. I've seen things spin into something really negative online when an author has responded to a bad review. So I would be a little bit more cautious about how you respond to someone who negatively reviewed your book, should you choose to respond at all.

Fundy Blue said...

Your name was ringing a bell in my mind, and I just realized why it was familiar ~ I read your short story in the IWSG anthology. I enjoyed it, although perhaps I should say it haunted me because it was sad ~ and a breast-feeding, milk pumping protagonist is a memorable first in this reader's experience! Congratulations on having your story included in the anthology!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Being compared to Stephen King?! That's a huge compliment!

Erika Beebe said...

Great question and great post. I like all the suggestions. I think it's always good to thank people when possible. I do like the thoughts on Facebook and Twitter and email responses. Thank you for being a host this month.

Liesbet said...

I wish I could answer that question for you, but, first, one has to be selling their book(s). So, maybe in a few years, I can give you my take on this. :-) In general, I always reply to emails and to comments on my blog, or others when prompted. Showing your appreciation should not get you in trouble... The best compliment you received is way up there! Congratulations and thank you for hosting this month's IWSG Wednesday, Yolanda!

H. R. Sinclair said...

It's interesting that your best comment was also a turn off for others. But I agree, it's a great compliment!

Jeffrey Scott said...

I'm not sure I can answer your question because I have never really had a review on my blog, or anywhere else. Mostly because I'm still struggling with trying to get published. Okay, I'm still struggling with trying to finish editing. It's been a long time coming, but I'm trying to get it just right.

Suzanne Furness said...

I think being compared to Stephen King is a huge compliment, congrats.

Susan A Eames said...

That's quite a compliment!
I don't have any novels to my name, but this is what someone said about a short story of mine:
Well, it really is superb writing. You seem to effortlessly elicit such vivid pictures in your writing. Every thing I've read of yours - including this latest example - is so beautifully descriptive. I would love to be able to capture even a sprinkling of what you achieve. Well done.

Susan at
Travel, Fiction and Photos

Lisa said...

I guess I would try and leave a response somewhere besides Amazon if possible. What a great compliment!

Lisa said...

Oh, and thanks so much for co-hosting this month!

VR Barkowski said...

Stephen King? What a spectacular compliment!

I ‘like’ reviews on Goodreads and click 'helpful' on Amazon. There’s nothing wrong with thanking someone who’s posted a review on their blog. I’ve seen well-known authors pop up unexpectedly in blog comments. Just keep it at a thank you and don’t interact. If you’re really concerned about the Amazon police, send your thank you to the blogger via email.

VR Barkowski

Victoria Marie Lees said...

Thank you so much for co-hosting this month's IWSG session. I've joined your blog before. This is my first time as a member of the group. It does seem that Goodreads as well as Amazon seems to be questioning a lot of reviews. I'm a short story writer, but I write reviews of books when asked, so I know what you mean. So sorry I don't have an answer for you, though.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

That is great compliment. The King himself. I think you're right to be wary of the Amazon police.

Gwen Gardner said...

Being compared to Stephen King is a wonderful comment! LOL, that would probably last me my whole writing career. Feeling discouraged? Remember you write like King! I don't comment on GoodReads or Amazon reviews on my books. *shrugs*

SK Anthony said...

Gosh, that IS certainly a great compliment!!!! :D

The review question, I wondered that myself. I've stayed away from commenting or liking anything. Part of me thinks it's rude, but Amazon police doesn't care . . . And, well, the sad truth is that we need the reviews. I really wish there was an easier way to deal with this, though. :-/

~~~
S.K. Anthony: The Decline in Ebooks — It’s Not What You Think

Diane Burton said...

Wow! What a compliment. I'd definitely "like" the review. Thanks for co-hosting this month.

Debra Renée Byrd said...

That is a great compliment, even if that's why some couldn't finish reading.

Thanks for co-hosting!

Carrie-Anne said...

I hope I someday have more than all of one review for the four books I have out so far. I suppose it's only common courtesy to thank someone for a good review, at least on a blog. On Amazon and Goodreads, it can seem a tad unprofessional.

That's awesome you got compared to Stephen King!

dolorah said...

Just can't please everyone. I'd like to be compared to King, lol.

Who knows what makes Amazon take down a review. I think all mine are up (but I didn't see one for your first book from me and I was sure I reviewed it there). Denise's review is still up, and look how well you "know" each other. I bet the blogger would appreciate a thank you from the author they reviewed - positively.

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Pat, thanks. I agree. It's just difficult to know how far the reach of Amazon is. I came across a review on a blog of someone I don't know, apparently arranged for by my publisher and I wanted to say 'thank you' but quickly noticed that there were no other comments. I checked the history of the blog and saw that on no page was there a comment. (This blog was a review site) I shied away from leaving one, and then wondered if I'd done the right thing. I always say thank you when I'm aware and know the author, but this time, I questioned it. Still do, even after all these wonderful answers. :)

Yolanda Renée said...

I think that's wonderful! I love being open and showing my appreciation, but today, there does seem to be a question regarding knowing someone and Amazon reviews. I review books of authors I know. I hope none of mine have been deleted but I also try to make sure the purchased can be verified! Still ARC's exist for the sole reason of a review!

Yolanda Renée said...

Honestly, I think the person who made that claim hadn't ever read his work, just knew of it! So, that's why I'm not sure it was meant as a compliment, but to put a positive slant on the fact that they couldn't read my book, or wouldn't finish reading it because of the subject matter, Lucifer. I took it in a positive way, but believe me. I know better! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

It is, if it's meant as a compliment. I think in this incident it was meant as a slam by someone who hadn't read his work. :(
Still, had to look at it positively, he is one of my favorite authors, but as I said before I know better! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

If only it were true!
I've read of them deleting reviews, but so far they haven't done so to me. I just know their reach is wide and I assumed there was an etiquette, as there seems to be for everything else. Although I'm sure it'd change daily as has everything else about book marketing online!

Yolanda Renée said...

Truly, Crystal, if only it were true! :)
I do too, or I did. I shared a review once and it seemed to invite a bit of hate, and made me question whether it was a smart thing to do. Someone took it as bragging and left a sour message. But damn, shouldn't we be allowed to brag once in a while? Especially if it's 5 stars?

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Lynn, heavens no. They didn't really mean it as a compliment, but I chose to see it that way. I've long admired the King!
I have a long, long way to go before I've reached my stride!
It's wonderful to meet you!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Alex, that seems to be the consensus!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Tamara, I'd never comment on an Amazon review, that's just inviting trouble. He's mine too, if only the comparison was even close!

Yolanda Renée said...

Ha, ha, isn't it! Now if I only believed it, better yet if only the reading public believed it! :)
You do a beautiful job of thanking folks, you write the best reviews!

Yolanda Renée said...

HUGE! Damn, if only it were meant that way. :)
Hi, Jemi!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Elsie, he's one of mine too. But darn it, I know they didn't mean it in a positive way, and I'd bet my last dollar they'd never read his work. When I first read their words I was shocked and felt awful. It was never my intent to write a book that someone 'couldn't' read because of the subject. But I had to turn the negativity around. I took it as compliment even though I know better!
Yes, I do too, but suddenly it became a question! To acknowledge publicly or not?

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Joylene, I saw that and agree 100% blog comments should be reciprocated. Thanks for answering the question, I'll quit worrying about it then, especially if it's not even expected. But I'll continue to respond the way I have with a personal thank you, a like on GR's and a comment on a blog.
Stephen King, my hero, if only!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Sandee, I have too!
Wishing you a fabulous day too!

Yolanda Renée said...

Oh, Toinette, I wish. :)
Smart, I'll keep playing it safe too!

Yolanda Renée said...

Yes, and thank you for the thank you. I loved your book! Congratulations!
Hi, Pat!

Yolanda Renée said...

I would never, ever comment on a negative review, that's only asking for trouble. And I've had my share.
Hi, Bish, I agree, comparison to another author is usually a compliment, and that's how I'm taking it! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

Well, not really that HUGE - it really wasn't meant that way. But I turned it around so I could handle their other words. :)
Thank you, Michelle!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Diane!
See, there are several roads to take!

Yolanda Renée said...

You're right, Karen, good manners should dictate, but for some reason they don't, at least not in all cases!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Megan, I don't think I've ever had a tweeted review. But yes, that would be the appropriate place to 'like'! That's the word, pandering, yes, it is a worry isn't it. FB is the place where I was accused of bragging! Made me think twice about posting reviews.

Yolanda Renée said...

That's wonderful Patsy, and I'm sure the person making the comment also finished reading your book, unlike the folks who refused to read mine. I doubt that it would have concerned me, but several readers made that claim, and it really bothered me. I guess mixing mystery/detective/horror wasn't the right choice! :)
Thanks for visiting!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Samantha, I think that's the way most folks do it, and yes, awkward is the word.
Awkward, pandering, bragging, polite, hmm... all good words to come out of this!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Madeline, thanks, I wont repeat myself, but I so appreciate your comments and the visit!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Ken, thanks, emails are a great way to say thank you and takes the public out of it!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hey, Chrys, if only, right!
Yes, me too, unless I don't know the blogger, then I wonder if I should or shouldn't - especially when no one else has and it's a reviewers blog. Hmm...

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Jennifer, the monthly question is a suggestion only, but a great idea if you're struggling with a subject of your own. I think it's a great idea!
Thanks!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Donna, I just wish it were meant in the true sense but it is what it is. :)
So maybe they took your review down? I'll have to check, that is odd. Now I'm doubly worried I can't afford to lose any review!
Yes, I agree we should be able to respond with a thank you!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Carrie-Anne, yes, unprofessional, that's true!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Deb, that's how I decided to take it, but I'm sure they've never read his work either! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

Thank you, Diane, I agree, at least a 'like'!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, SK, yes, it's a wonderful way to look at it, but I'm so not even close! :)
I agree it is a sad truth. Amazon seems to rule the writing world!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Gwen, I'm too realistic, but it does give one pause to imagine being that good!
Thanks!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Susan, can't help but be wary!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks Victoria, and welcome to the IWSG family!
That's the fear floating around the internet now.

Yolanda Renée said...

Great advice, VR, It should be a great compliment shouldn't it. I'll take it!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Lisa, you're welcome! Thanks for stopping by!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Susan, if only it were true! :)
Those are magnificent words and I know well deserved. Congratulations!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Suzanne, I just wish it were true! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

You'll get there Jeffrey, conquer one hurdle at a time, soon you'll be worrying about reviews! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

I'm taking it as a positive, thanks, HR!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Liesbet, I've no doubt you'll be worrying about the same soon, unless we decide on an etiquette!
It was fun to co-host, much more fun than I thought it would be!

Yolanda Renée said...

Ha, ha, Lynda, but so not close to being true! Darn!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thank you, Erika, I love all the answers, and yes, saying thank you shouldn't be so hard!

Yolanda Renée said...

I agree, Cynthia, a writer should never get into an argument with a reader, silly, and can end an online presence!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Fundy Blue, that is so awesome. To hear that my name was ringing a bell and that you've read Parallels, truly AWESOME! Thank you, I'm so glad you enjoyed the story!

Yolanda Renée said...

Not as huge as it should be since I'm sure the person had never read his work, but I'll take it nonetheless! :)
I agree, thank you's should be sent, and sharing should be allowed without the feeling of pandering interfering!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Tyrean, the suggestions are great! I'm glad to know I'm not the only one trying to do it right!

Yolanda Renée said...

Me too, Laura, a positive response is always welcome, but I wanted to turn around what seemed like a negative one to a positive one. So far it's worked. :)
Good manners should rule!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Juneta, do they comment on an Amazon review or on a blog review. I do know of reviews that have been deleted, just learned one of mine might have been?!

Yolanda Renée said...

Isn't it! :) Hi, Sandra!

Yolanda Renée said...

I'd celebrate too, if it was meant in a positive way. It is what it is and I've turned it positive for me! :)
Good advice, I don't think I'll go back to that reviewers blog and comment. She obviously takes her reviews seriously and I'm just one of many!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Michael, I know that really hurt. But I'm glad you've read them! You're future isn't too far away, isn't that anthology due out in August??

Yolanda Renée said...

You're so sweet Julie, I just wish that reader, well, almost reader had said the same thing! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Alexia!

cleemckenzie said...

Amazon is a pain in the shorts. I'm forever trying to figure them out.

If you write like Steven King, then I'm in for some sleepless nights! Great comment to have on your writing.

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Nancy, I'd never, ever comment on a negative review, It's only asking for trouble, but I'll not say a word on Amazon positive review or negative, only on a blog and only if I know the blogger. I'll keep 'like' ing on GR's and FB though.
I'm thrilled that you read MML, I can't wait to read your review, thank you! I do that too, read - think - write review, and then re-write the review!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Shenna, I'd never comment on a negative review. But I do like to say thank you, especially in an email.
It would be life changing if it were a real compliment. :) But I'll take it!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Sandra, that is so true. I think we writers forget that, but it's why I want to thank them, reviews are so hard to come by. When another author take the time to read and then write a review. Wow, I just find it amazing! I agree a private thank you works for me!

Yolanda Renée said...

I've seen that too, but I've also heard that ARC reviews are some of the ones disappearing? If I don't see the 'verified purchase' on the review I just assume it's an ARC, although some are given away in contests too, which some reviewers also mention. I do know that they track the social media stuff. I've seen it. Thanks for your opinion, Murees!

Yolanda Renée said...

Not yet, not officially, but getting there! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, lilicasplace, I don't think you'll find much King in them, although the second one is more horror than mystery. I don't think the person had ever read King. But I'll take it!
So they do pull them, for unknown reasons. No, on Amazon I make no comment! On GR I hit 'like' on blogs that I know I'll comment and if I know the reviewer who's posted to Amazon I'll send an email.
Co-hosting was a blast, thank you!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thank you, Kim!

Yolanda Renée said...

Even meant the way it was, I do! Hi, Liza!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, J Q, you're right not usually discussed. I guess that's why I wondered about an online etiquette. Great answers here today!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, lori! Thanks, I'm learning a lot too!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Jamie, good advice!

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Lexa, they do have more reach via GR don't they!
King! If only! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

Wish it were true! :)
You have a wonderful month too. I appreciate your insight!

Yolanda Renée said...

It is hard for some of us not to be polite, isn't it. :) Hi, Nicki. I loved that about the King novel, thank you. Made me feel even better!!!!

Yolanda Renée said...

I like that, encouraged responses! I'll have to check it ou.
Horror is such fun!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Lee, but I'm not that good, believe me! I doubt this person had ever read his work. Oh well, I'll take it!
Amazon, a quandary!

Yolanda Renée said...

Amazon is an enigma, great word!
Hi, Lidy, thanks!

Yolanda Renée said...

Yes, you're halfway there! :)

Yolanda Renée said...

Hi, Olga, it sounds like a great policy!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Susan!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Cherie!

Yolanda Renée said...

Truly, it only makes sense, right? :) Hi, Laura!

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Loni, I know they know we're connected. I've seen it on the site. So and so is a friend of so and so, on so and so social site. Really, not they publish that?

Shannon Lawrence said...

I have no idea about the reviews, but fantastic to have been compared to Stephen King! Even for the ones who couldn't finish it because of that. I say bring it on! Now to read these other comments and see what people said about the reviews.

The Happy Whisk said...

Nice comment they gave you. Cool beaners. Happy Weekend.

Yolanda Renée said...

Thanks, Ivy, have a great weekend yourself!!!

Unknown said...

Wow - compared to S. King - that's a compliment.
No idea on the review question. I agree about the Amazon police problem - but can offer no suggestions.

Kalpana said...

That's amazing to be compared to Stephen King. You deserve that compliment Yolanda - your writing is superb. Thanks for co hosting the IWSG this month. Cheers

Anonymous said...

That's an awesome complement!
I've heard that some book reviewers don't like it when an author comments on the post of their review. The claim is it turns off readers from discussing it because they're aware the author is watching or something. But then I hear that other book reviewers love it. The safe bet would probably be email them a thank you.

Cherie Reich said...

To answer your question, I do click "like" on Goodreads when someone reviews one of my books, and I'll thank a person on their blog or by email if I know them or if it was part of a blog tour. On Amazon, I steer clear from responding to reviews of any kind.