Read, Rate, Review

I took some time to check reviews of my books on Amazon and goodreads the other day. It is an exercise I do periodically, as any author should. I try not to get discouraged by less than stellar reviews because everyone has a right to their opinion and not everyone likes the same things. In fact, some people say that a few negative reviews add credibility.

But what about NO REVIEWS? Yikes! This is every author’s worst-case scenario.

Such is the case for a few of my books, and it makes me feel sad–and, yes–a bit discouraged. I know that there are people who have read and even enjoyed some of these examples. They’ve emailed or messaged me to tell me so. So, why so few reviews?

I think most people can’t be bothered. It’s too much trouble or for some reason, it seems like a daunting task.

Listen! Reviews don’t have to be long! Just a few words are enough! Did you enjoy reading the book? Would you recommend it to others? That’s really all you have to say. If you want to go further, you can mention reasons why you enjoyed it, but you don’t have to be eloquent or wordy. It’s not an English assignment and no one is going to assess your answer!

If you really, really can’t do that much, at least consider RATING the book. This is a simple click of a star. Although ratings don’t carry as much weight in Amazon’s algorithms (that murky Math ‘thing’ that gives books visibility) they still have value.

Reviews (and even ratings) really do make a difference! My three top-rated titles are not in the 100s, but at least they’re double digits. If you have read any of my books, please consider leaving a review. If you have ever bought anything at Amazon, you can leave reviews and ratings. Link to my Amazon Author page.

If amazon.com doesn’t work, try amazon.ca or wherever “amazon” is appropriate for where you may live. If you enjoy reading, consider getting a “goodreads” account. Lesser known and independent authors like me are depending on it.

If you’d like to hear more on WHY REVIEWS MATTER, check out this post from my archives.