Yes, But Is It Any Good?

The first review of “I Knew Men”

My novel has been published, distributed, and it is featured on the Newman Springs Publishing website. They’ve also written a press release. I’m seeing posts on Facebook from friends and relatives who show photos of “I Knew Men” in their possession. My story is out and it’s being read! The dream is taking on a life of its own!

WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?

To date, I’ve received one review on Barnes and Noble. I will cherish this 5-star review forever; composed by a longtime friend who has encouraged me from the moment I made this effort known. She wrote, “Through the ups and downs of love and life, the author takes you from coast to coast with Anna and all the men in her life – unpredictable and sexy – quite the wild ride!!”

Reading her review was a wild and wonderful ride for me!

But what about the dozens of others who have purchased? Are they feeling that theirs was also a worthwhile investment; reading time well spent?

I’M GUILTY

Suddenly, I realize how important it is to an author when readers take a moment to provide reviews. I’m guilty of not writing them also, even though I’ve enjoyed many hours immersed in wonderful reads. Some, like “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by T.J. Klune would get a standing ovation if books were akin to live performances. I hated to see it end, for I came to love the unusual characters who sprang to life in my imagination. Others, like “Girl, Wash Your Face” by Rachel Hollis, are truly inspiring. In today’s world of hyper superficiality, her book is a deep, life-giving breath of fresh air.

Recently, I talked with a cousin who purchased my novel. She’s a fantastic writer whom I’ve long admired, and she happens to live on the real island that was fictionalized in my novel. I asked what she thought. “I read it in about a day,” she said. Such music to my ears! She went on to tell me more, and I asked if she would be willing to give a review on Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and Goodreads. She said she would, and confessed that she also forgets to give reviews, just like me.

Another friend recently read my book while on vacation with her family. She told me, “I couldn’t put it down and I was sad every day that I had to do vacation things because I definitely wanted to know what was happening to my favorite character.” Her words left me floating on a cloud. She also plans to give a thoughtful review.

That’s two more in the works; we’re on a roll!

A SPECIAL REQUEST

If you are one of my readers, may I count on you to please take a moment to give your feedback? Whether you like my novel or not, a review is a special gift. As I work to finalize the sequel, “I Knew Men More,” your thoughtful comments are especially timely and helpful.

I remain grateful for your encouragement, purchases — all of your support.

Thank you!