Monday 11 January 2016

Star Ratings and What They Mean (in which we are actually serious for a change, even as we take a totally partisan view)



When my first novel was published, my mentor told me: “Don’t look at your reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.  Particularly Goodreads.  No, really.  Don’t.  If your book continues to sell, then you know it’s good.  If your publisher buys your next book, then you know it is good.  Don’t  torture yourself by reading the criticism of non-writers.”

I found it next to impossible to follow his advice.  The lure of reviews on your work is pretty strong.

It took ten books – all published by traditional publishers – before I really felt I had a handle on ‘the dreaded review star rating.’  Here’s my list. (My opinion only, everyone. You may have a different interpretation.)

Anatomy of Star ratings

Five stars:  Just one word: Joy!
Bless them, every one.  A million thanks to reviewers who take the time to tell you they loved your book.

Four stars:  Okay, they really liked it. Maybe even loved it.  But even if they loved it, some people  reserve five stars for their very favourite authors, and the masters, like Jane Austen.  And literary writers.  A genre novel is...well…a genre novel.  Not quite as worthy (in some eyes).  But they really enjoyed it.

Three stars:  These are the ones that make me sad.  A reader is telling me that the book was okay.  I want them to think it was great!  Sometimes, this can be a reader who loved your books in another genre, and decided to try this book that is in a different genre, one they don’t normally read.  Often, they will give you that clue in the review (“I don’t normally read scifi”). 

For instance, I have enjoyed Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series very much.  Recently, I tried one of her romantic comedies (classified under the Romance genre.)  I am not a romance reader, and not surprisingly, I found this book lacking in the type of fast-paced plot I enjoy.  I would probably give it a 3 rating, where no doubt a seasoned romance reader would give it a 4 or 5.

Two stars:  These are often people who wandered into your book by mistake.  They thought it sounded interesting, so they bought it thinking it was one thing, and it wasn’t.  They’re mad at having spent money on something that isn’t their thing.  It’s not a happy event when you get these, but understand that these people aren’t your market.

One star:  These are simply people who enjoy hurting others.  Ignore them.  I do.

Here’s my advice, if you find that reviews haunt you, and keep you from writing:

1.  Stop reading them.  Really.  

2.  Never comment on a review.  Never.

3.   If you can, employ a personal assistant to read your reviews as they come in, and forward you the good ones only.  (This is my dream.  One day.)

One more thing: When you give away a book for free, there is a downside: you often get people picking it up who wouldn't normally spend money on that type of book.  Not surprisingly, they might not like it, as they are not your market.  Always expect some poor reviews, if you give a book away.  There are still many good reasons to do so.  Just be prepared.

11 comments:

  1. Great advice, Mel. I don't read reviews, good or bad. Time is limited and I'd rather focus on working on new books and novellas, vowing to make each one the best book I've ever written.

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  2. You are smarter than I am, Debra! I probably wouldn't have written this post if I hadn't just seen a new 4 star review of one of my books, which made me thoughtful. Instead of writing blog posts, I should get back to writing books

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  3. I rarely read reviews, mine or anyone else's. I like the way you've presented the star rating's explanations here!

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    1. Thanks, Sheri. I wish I had taken my own advice back a few years ago.

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  4. I rarely read reviews, mine or anyone else's. I like the way you've presented the star rating's explanations here!

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  5. Wonderful breakdown Melodie. I used to read my reviews, even respond to them. Now I forget to even check if there are any new ones. Guess that means I'm over OPO...Other People's Opinions.

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    1. That is the key, Viga! I think if a writer is in the game for approval, they are bound to be disappointed.

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  6. Absolutely wonderful advice regarding reviews. I do try to take it most of the time. :) I think the statement "If your book continues to sell, you know it's good," is spot on. We seem to forget that a lot.

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    1. Thanks for commenting, Jenna! And I think a good test is your next book. If people buy your next book, then you know the one before satisfied them.

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  7. Great advice, Melodie. Who wants to read a bad review? I only post good reviews with the thought that just because I didn't like a book doesn't mean someone else won't love it. Who am I to take away from another's work. Reviews aren't usually why I would or would't choose a book to read. So the big question - can I stop myself from reading them?

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  8. Speaking (belatedly) from the reader's perspective, Melodie, I wonder if any authors realise that many readers buy books based on 2, 3 and 4-star reviews only. I take no notice of 5 star reviews when I'm buying. But a lower-star review which includes criticism from someone who doesn't sound like they're on my wavelength? Then that book's in my basket, ta very much.

    Sometimes I despair at the heart attacks authors I know give themselves in trying to get 5-star reviews when they can mean very little to actual readers outside of bringing up the average. I agree with you on 1-star reviews, though. They are as relevant and useful as those who issue them.

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