Topic: Dilemma

I need advice. I read a friend's novel. First it was riddled with errors that a good editor should have caught. I've already told him to get me to do it next time. I finished the novel. It's really not very good. The main character is weak. I didn't care about her at all. The true villain is never really revealed. The story ended on a note that was unfinished. And, the guy missed the perfect side romance thread, which he seemed to have started and just dropped. The book could have been really good, but it fell flat for me. How do I write a promised review without being cruel? This same man has won an IPPY for a different novel and has one novel that has had movie bids on it. This one just didn't cut it for me.

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Re: Dilemma

Don't lie.

Say that you wondered why he didn't take this opportunity or that.  Mention things that did work.

And get more advice than this before you start

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Re: Dilemma

First off, you could ask "him" the questions the book brought out for you and explain your reactions and then ask if he really wants you to submit an honest review. Of course you could gloss over the shortcomings and as njc said just dwell on what did work, if anything. Just because he won some accolades on a previous book doesn't make the next one a "winner" and sometimes there is only one book in the attic so to speak. My opinion only. Take care. Vern

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Re: Dilemma

I agree with Vern.  I have a friend who wants to read everything I write, and occasionally she will say, "This doesn't sound like your voice at all.  I don't care for this one because ...."  It happens.  I would definitely speak to him in person about all that you've mentioned and let him decide if he wants you to offer up your review for the world to see. My friend's honesty has made me a better writer.

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Re: Dilemma

I have this same concern when I do reviews  of chapters submitted by new TNBW members. Some of the stories are so riddled with basic mistakes one does not know where to start. I don't want to discourage new writers, however, I feel an obligation to point out issues that need to be addressed. Those members who have reviewed my writing and pointed out the basic rules I've ignored have helped me immensely.

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6 Reply by j p lundstrom (edited by j p lundstrom 2017-08-10 15:59:46)

Re: Dilemma

John Byram wrote:

I have this same concern when I do reviews  of chapters submitted by new TNBW members. Some of the stories are so riddled with basic mistakes one does not know where to start. I don't want to discourage new writers, however, I feel an obligation to point out issues that need to be addressed. Those members who have reviewed my writing and pointed out the basic rules I've ignored have helped me immensely.

When I go back and re-read my stories, I can't help but be grateful for the harsh (sometimes) but true errors/omissions tnbw members have pointed out to me. I'm getting better all the time, thanks to you all. TELL THE TRUTH. It doesn't help us to hear false flattery.

That being said, Janet's situation is more difficult--she knows the author personally. She can't give an anonymous critique and then turn off the computer. I would say to 1) acknowledge his successes, then 2) focus on the aspect you consider the most glaring 3) if the guy's ego can take it, continue with another point or two , then stop. Finally, (which you've already done) 4) offer your services for next time.

If he still wants your review, he'll tell you.

Sorry, Janet. It's a tricky situation, but that's life.  If there's negative fallout, remember--you still have us!  JP

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Re: Dilemma

First off, you could ask "him" the questions the book brought out for you and explain your reactions and then ask if he really wants you to submit an honest review.

Totally agree. Offer to do a second edit for him instead of a review. That would be of far more use, imho, than false praise. When you write a review, you aren't writing for the author; you're writing for readers who expect you to speak honestly. If you cater to the author, friend or no, you are lying to readers who expect your review to offer an honest assessment of the work.

I have reviewed books {casually.} It's common practice to either honestly and professionally review the book, pointing out what works & doesn't work objectively, or privately contact the author and tell him or her what your honest review will have to contain, & give the author an opportunity to decline your review. Tough situation with it being a friend, but this place sort of prepares us for that; we have to knock each other around a bit to grow as writers. smile

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Re: Dilemma

I would honestly and objectively review the book, but start with the positives.  I've lived in Puerto Rico, and that's how they begin criticism. They hate to say 'no,' there and by the time they get to it, you have to blink before you realize it wasn't a 'yes.'  After you do the positives, go into the negatives, saying things like "This isn't up to your usual standards," or "I couldn't believe that this was you writing--were you possessed?"  Offer to make it into an edit session (pointing out you usually get paid for that, but as he's a friend, etc.).  And remember (perhaps remind him) that true friends are honest--that's the only way you can be sure that the dress you picked out for the evening isn't as hideous as you suspect it is. (Just never ask a man, "Does this dress make me look fat?" No matter how good a friend they are.)

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Re: Dilemma

Janet Taylor-Perry wrote:

I need advice. I read a friend's novel. First, it was riddled with errors that a good editor should have caught. I've already told him to get me to do it next time. I finished the novel. It's really not very good. The main character is weak. I didn't care about her at all. The true villain is never really revealed. The story ended on a note that was unfinished. And, the guy missed the perfect side romance thread, which he seemed to have started and just dropped. The book could have been really good, but it fell flat for me. How do I write a promised review without being cruel? This same man has won an IPPY for a different novel and has one novel that has had movie bids on it. This one just didn't cut it for me.

"I normally love your work.  However, this novel isn't as developed as your other books. Your editor/publisher missed several major typos which I find distracting.  I also had a really difficult time connecting to the main character as I feel she comes across as weak and underwhelming.  I did love the side romance you started but I wish you had followed it through to the end instead of letting it just wither away.  However, I might have dealt with my lukewarm feelings about the main character if the true villain had a bigger role and the ending felt more finished.  I do greatly enjoy your work in most cases, I wish I enjoyed this book more. It broke my heart to write anything but a rave review for you but I couldn't disrespect your talent by being dishonest."

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Re: Dilemma

Thanks, all. Tirzah, yours is awesome.

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Re: Dilemma

Janet Taylor-Perry wrote:

Thanks, all. Tirzah, yours is awesome.

Honest but kind. smile

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