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0 Receiving reviews is an essential step in the book publicity journey for many authors, but it does carry risks, particularly the possibility of receiving negative feedback. If that happens, it’s crucial to maintain your composure and keep the long-term perspective in mind. It’s natural to want to react strongly to criticism since writing is a deeply personal endeavor. However, engaging with negative reviewers is usually not the best approach. Instead, focus on promoting positive feedback and other favorable mentions of your work. The goal is to extend the visibility of favorable reviews to target readers.
Many people might never encounter negative reviews, and positive comments can balance them out in the eyes of your audience. One fundamental advice for authors facing a harsh review is to refrain from responding. Complaining on social media can worsen the situation, and the reviewer is unlikely to change their opinion. Concentrating on writing quality books and engaging in uplifting conversations with your audience will yield better results. Criticism is inevitable for any book, so resilience is essential for a successful writing career. Just like films and television, books face scrutiny.
When you first encounter a negative review, keeping your feelings in check can be difficult. You might feel overwhelmed as if your world is falling apart. Such emotions are expected, and many authors experience them at some point. Remember, no one is immune to bad reviews—even the most renowned and successful writers face criticism occasionally. It’s also worth noting that receiving feedback means people engage with your work and take it seriously. If you’re not getting any reviews and struggle to connect with your audience, that’s a more significant concern.
So, don’t shy away from taking the risk of having your book reviewed. Even if it’s tempting to disagree with every negative reviewer’s point, there may be valuable lessons to glean from their comments. After you’ve processed your initial reaction, revisit the review with a fresh perspective. You might discover some constructive feedback to consider for the future. However, avoid overreacting by crafting your next book directly and responding to the criticism. Remember, many readers will have different opinions about your book, and no single viewpoint, even the most glowing, is universally valid.
