I received a new 5-star review last night. The kind of review that makes me feel like all the struggles of writing are worth the fight. I love hearing back from people who have read my books, even if they hated it, but a great 5-star review makes it all worthwhile.
We authors often focus on our reviews, for better or worse, and I am as guilty as anyone else when it comes to getting feedback on my books. Sometimes it’s the only feedback we receive. Like someone else’s opinion matters more than my own, even though the only opinion I control is my own.
I have spent entirely too much time at my computer, searching for the elusive book bloggers. The ones willing to lay down the honesty with a thickness. It’s amazing how many different opinions there are on just this one book.
One reviewer will praise me on the depth of my characters in such a short book while the next says they’re one dimensional. Another reviewer will say the ending was distasteful while three or four others say it was beautifully executed.
I’m writing this morning to say remain true to you and your story. You can never please everyone, and you’ll only run yourself ragged trying to do so. Instead, please yourself. The rest will follow or ignore at their own discretion, the only person you can control is yourself. Trying to control anyone else will only lead you to bouts of heartburn. Instead, focus on putting your best foot forward, and making sure your story stays entertaining to you.
Sumo Sized Ginger 