Bad Reviews may be good.

So I have a new favorite hobby; I have been reading the bad reviews of books that I loved on Amazon.

Anyone who knows me, knows I have been writing. I don’t hope to write the great American novel by any stretch of the imagination. And I know that my particular voice will not appeal to everyone. I just want to tell stories that hopefully will pull readers into my own little fantasy world for a time. But having finished my third novel, I am researching literary agents, and the publishing market, and how to write a compelling query letter. It is a daunting process. I decided to look on Amazon. What were the ‘hooks’ for my favorite books? Think what would you read on the back cover that would compel you to read the story. And then I decided to look at the reviews. And I have found that the books that I love deeply in my heart, and that believe I could never aspire to their level, all have a great many naysayers. Every single one of them. Despite the vast number of great reviews, my favorite books all have a deep well of negativity pouring out from the depths.

What I have learned:

• No matter what you do, you will not win over everyone.

• Tell your story, and put it out there. Your audience will find you. And if it is a small audience rejoice that you touched someone.

• Keep doing you. Don’t ever try to appeal to the masses. It won’t work.

• Your voice matters. Maybe not to everyone, but to someone.

• Don’t create for the hope of fame and riches. Yes, we all want fame and riches, but it is not the thing that should compel us. It is a byproduct. And not the goal. Tell your story. Create your work.

• Be positive. It may not be your cup of tea, but don’t be an asshole. You can say ‘hey, its not my thing’ without eviscerating someone.

Just some food for thought.