I kind of secretly like reviews. Perhaps it comes from my 8 years of writing workshops, or perhaps it comes from the little voice in my head that is super critical of everything I do, but I find them kind of useful in their own way. Here’s why:
- Consistent Feedback. The resounding feedback for THE DIMINISHED agrees on one thing: the beginning is too slow. And looking back on it now, I see that, for the most part, the reviewers are right. The beginning IS too slow. And knowing that has informed how I revise and refine book two. Thanks, reviewers.
- Room to Grow. THE DIMINISHED was the second book I ever wrote. Ultimately, I’m really proud of it, but I also hope that it’s not the best book I ever write. Therefore, when I read my reviews (which is rare now that the book is out), I look for things I can work on, like characterizing my romantic interests better.
- Awareness. Ever writer has little tics and habits that they don’t see, but readers catch. I love seeing these mentioned in my reviews because being aware of them makes me a better writer.
All that said, since THE DIMINISHED was published I’ve tended not to read my reviews because at this point, I’m not sure what more I’d see that I haven’t already seen. Also, I’m deeply entrenched in a new project, and I don’t want Vi and Bo’s voices to carry over into this new world.