The New Book Reviewer

An intriguing discussion occurred recently between some of my Twitter friends regarding book reviews.

A reviewer had posted a brief disparaging piece (I wouldn’t call it a review, by any stretch of the imagination) about a historical erotic novel. Someone else had made an even more disapproving comment in response, about why writers feel the need to include explicit sex scenes in their novels just in order to get them to sell.

My outraged friend vented eloquently and articulately in response to both these posts. She stated an obvious fact: if you don’t enjoy a certain genre of books, then don’t read them, and certainly don’t review them as though you’re being objective.

This is what I’d like to tell the ‘reviewer’ who casually dismissed a lovely erotic romance novel by saying it had too many sex scenes (huh?):

Writing a review is different from merely stating your opinion. It’s a process that should engage these three essential qualities:

Thinking, Feeling, and Willing.

Thinking: Facts are important. Research is important. Begin writing the review with all the background  information you have about the book. Include what you feel is necessary to share about the author, about the genre, about the story itself, about the book’s place in society. I think that even if you don’t want to share this information in your review, it’s important that you yourself know as much as possible. This is using your brain.

Then engage with the book you’re writing about using your heart. Instead of saying, “I didn’t like it.” Or, “It sucked,” describe your reaction more interestingly. “The alluring mystery of love-making is tenderly represented by the hero doing such-and-such…” or “If a man really can lift a normal-sized woman and carry her up the stairs without throwing out his back…” Hone your feelings about your book so that your review is emotionally engaging. This is what makes writing fun! A book review is more than just your personal likes and dislikes. Sometimes, even if you don’t like a book, I might decide to read it because of your review.

Finally, write well. Use the correct words, the best words for the job. Why settle for less? There are so many book reviewer blogs out there now: what is going to make yours the place where people go? It’s your voice, your style of writing, which sets you apart, as well as your insights.  Even if tastes don’t match, your contribution to authors and readers is not only valuable; it’s essential.

We all have our reading preferences. My favorites are story-tellers who published (sometimes self-published) in the 1920’s and 30’s. I also love the Victorians, Regencies, and contemporary romances. I’m not a big thriller fan, and violence makes me sick. But I’m always willing to stretch, and recently I’ve been reading a slew of action-packed, torture-laden thrillers that, when I’m not doubling over in laughter, I’m occasionally shocked by. I’ve been thinking that it’s really good for me to read outside my favorites – as a female novelist I’m getting excellent ideas about pacing and male energy.

The best reviewers stretch too, I find. They read widely, and place books in context. They look at the big picture. Their inherent love of books and respect for the author shines through, regardless of genre.

I think this new paradigm of book reviewing – where every reader is the expert – is fabulous. This trend offers all readers the opportunity to share their insights and responses, not just an elite group. By the same token, book reviewers need to take their responsibility seriously. They have a crucial role to play in the future of publishing, and an increasing responsibility to authors and readers. There’s no room here for either rash gush or careless disparagement.

Here are some New Book Reviewers (aka Book Bloggers):
WebbWeavers CK Webb & DJ Weaver are a fiery duo that cover lots of genres and media (not just books). There’s something exciting and balancing about a duo doing this work. Love them both.
Babbling About Books Katie Babs does even more than ‘babble about  books.’ She offers a smart, personal, engaging blog.
Bookwork Bites Jim Rada writes to-the-point, no-nonsense, respectful, interesting reviews.
Dear Author Whether they’re Jane-Jayne-Janice-Janet… who cares? Great style – great fun.
The Book Smugglers Ana and Thea do a detailed job letting us know mostly about romance novels.
Lurve Ala Mode : “book reviews, opinions, mayhem.”
Monkey Bear Reviews – Book reviews & musings from a lover of romance novels.
Gossamer Obsessions – Romance Novel Reviews and much more fun by Anime June.

Racy Romance Reviews: Romance novels reviewed by a philosopher professor – very entertaining.
The Misadventures of Superlibrarian Wendy the Super Librarian.
The Good, the Bad and the Unread – Reading, Ranting, and Reviewing by Readers.
Book Chic: In My Mailbox and More – Delightful, personal, and intelligent blogs.

The Book Maven – well-written reviews and more.

The Book Bundle – love it!

I’d like to keep updating this list: Please send me your favorite Book Reviewers/Bloggers and I’ll include them.