Friday, June 11, 2010

So....do you??

I just read a book that I really can't find anything good to say about and I'm curious...do you do negative reviews on your blog? Why or why not? Part of me feels like I should have the guts to give an honest opinion if I think a book sucks, but another part of me can't stand the idea of publicly criticizing something that someone put so much work into and obviously cares deeply about.

Does the popularity of the author have anything to do with your decision? I know I would be more comfortable panning a Nicholas Sparks book (huge following and I doubt I will hurt his sales) than I would be someone self publishing and trying to establish himself.

Tell me your thoughts on this please, I'm curious to hear your opinions...

9 comments:

Leanna Elle said...

I've written a few negative reviews on my blog. I think the thing to do is to be honest, but not to be scathing. For example, if I really don't like I book, I will try to outline as much as possible why I didn't like it - I'm not just going to review a book and say "I hate this crap". That kind of thing doesn't help anybody! But, I'd much rather read a blog that has honest reviews rather than just read blogs that give five stars to everything. That's my take on it, anyway. :)

loreleimarsh said...

I post negative reviews simply because I am a big believer in being honest. There are some books you just can't like, no matter how much you try and authors know that. They understand that their work make not suit your tastes, but they tend to appreciate the fact that you even tried and are willing to give constructive criticism. I try to find something positive to report and I definitely explain my thoughts in details when it comes to posting a negative review. I hope that makes sense and good luck!

Angelique said...

Thank you SO much for the feedback! I like what both of you had to say and I think in the future I will go ahead and post if a book just doesn't do it for me...honesty, but in a constructive way =)
Again, big thank-yous!! I really appreciate you sharing your opinions!

As I Lay Bleeding said...

Since I know which book you speak of I truly inderstand this particular dilemma.The author is so giving in spirit and such. Personally, I am not sure I could do it. If the book was just a bit off maybe, but if it was really bad... not sure I could carry that load. If you can find a truly constructive way of reviewing it without sounding abusive...lol... then I would say 'go for it'. Glad to not be in your shoes my Darlin'. Wish I could help more.

Steph Bowe said...

Honesty is always the best policy, but just be tactful.

Love your blog!

Angelique said...

Thanks, love yours too!!

Anonymous said...

At art school we were taught not to say we like or dislike something ( mind you I was kicked out half way through my second year. So maybe this advice is too silly. But it has stuck with me ). A dialoge about something with no opinion can be interesting too maybe.

Angelique said...

Eesh...I could TRY that but I'm really very opinionated lol...

Tales of Whimsy said...

Good question. I totally do. But only if I can finish it.