Reviews - Relevant or Rubbish?

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Reader reviews are an important part of the online culture.  Like it or not, they can be instrumental in the success of an author's work.  

The more experience I have with this phenomenon, through my own page and others as well, the more horrified I have become.  Let me share my thoughts.

 

In my humble opinion, I believe people are confusing the much dreaded high school 'Book Review/Report' with the modern 'Reader's Review'.  There are mainly two things I want to discover when I read a review on a novel before I purchase it.  

1.  How many people have been invested enough to write a review in the first place (good or bad - because I'm quite capable of making that judgement call myself), and 

2.  The basic gist of why they enjoyed or didn't enjoy reading it.

 

I don't see the need for a reviewer to write long-winded 'Spoiler Alerts'.  It might be just me, but part of the enjoyment of reading any novel is allowing the story to reveal itself as I read it.  Plus, I prefer to read the blurb from the author - it's usually much better written.  

 

Additionally, a lot of time and effort goes into writing a book - and a bad one takes just as long as a best seller to write.  Why do some people feel the need to be so mean?  If you didn't enjoy it, just say that and explain why without having to resort to petty insults and cruel remarks.  Authors have feelings too and that review, nastiness and all, stays there for all time. 

 

Finally, I object to the critiques I've seen on author's profiles that complain about poor spelling and grammar, only to find the review itself full of typos.  If you're going to be picky, make an attempt at credibility (or at the very least check your own dictionary prior to hitting enter!)

"....I couldn't read it because their where to many spelling misteaks...."

 

In saying all of this, reviews are valued in the writing community so please remember to show your support for your favourite authors by leaving a concise and intelligent review.  We do appreciate the gesture.