How to Respond to Bad Book Reviews

Well, first of all, my rule is NOT to respond to bad reviews, so maybe I should have titled this post a little better. As tempting as it may be to comment or engage with the reviewer, just don't do it!

I'm writing about this today, because I recently received a review on one of my books that started like this: How could a book that's so short be so bad? Ouch, right?! Yep, that stopped me from writing for a few days. Who knows, maybe it was the reviewers hope that I would quit writing permanently. In that case, the joke's on them!

Bad reviews are an unfortunate (but inevitable) part of being an author. As much as we might want every reader to love our book, the fact is that not everyone is going to feel that way. And that's okay! Different people have different taste, and not every book is going to be for everyone.

What's not okay is when readers leave bad reviews without giving any constructive feedback. These reviews can be hurtful and frustrating, but it's important to remember that they're just one person's opinion. There are plenty of other readers out there who will love your book!

So, how should you respond to a bad review? Keep reading for a few tips.

First, take a deep breath and don't react immediately. It's important to remember that an angry or hurtful response will only make the situation worse. Give yourself some time to cool off before you say anything (if you decide to say something at all). I choose not to reply, because I know I could end up feeling worse about myself if the reviewer continues to rip apart my work.

Second, try to see the situation from the reviewer's perspective. Is there any validity to their criticism? If so, use it as an opportunity to learn and improve as an author. If not, then let it go. This can be tough to admit, but sometimes reviewers make good points, even if they don't do it in the nicest ways. Writing longer books is one thing I'm working on as an author, but I don't agree that particular book is bad, and other reviewers seem to back me up.

Third, resist the urge to engage in a back-and-forth discussion with the reviewer. These types of arguments rarely end well, and they'll only serve to further damage your relationship with that reader. Remember, bad reviews aren't personal; they're just one person's opinion. As long as you keep that in mind, you'll be able to handle them with grace and composure.

Finally, focus on the positive reviews and let them outweigh the negative ones. A single bad review shouldn't undo all the good work you've put into your book!

No matter what kind of review you receive, just remember it's just one person's opinion. Don't let it define your work or who you are as an author. Believe in yourself and trust that there are readers out there who will appreciate your work for what it is. And if you ever need a little extra motivation, keep this quote from Theodore Roosevelt in mind:

"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming."

So to the writers in the arena, keep writing and finish that book! You’ve got this. :)