Releasing the first book in a new series gives one a new perspective on things. While I confess I don't get to read all my reviews, I did so as soon as the ARCS of Death on Dickens Island were released. I breathed a sigh of relief upon receiving some wonderful reviews from names I recognized. These were reviewers and readers who loved my previous books. They "got" me. I was happy that they liked the setting of Dickens Island and its residents as they ventured out on adventures amid murder and mayhem.
However, a few reviews included a different type of comment. "There's too much involving interpersonal relationships." Well, yeah, I thought. One of my main writerly themes is exploring my characters' relationships with one another. Someone else wrote "Every character has a problem." Sure, every character has an issue he or she needs to resolve. Other comments reflected that since Death on Dickens Island was the first book in the series, it was understandable that the author took the time to present the characters in their setting. After all, starting a new series means creating a new fictional world for both writer and reader.
Why should everyone love our books? is a question I think a first-time published author needs to keep in mind. After all, we, the reading public have varied tastes. What I find hilarious, someone might find silly. I've read some popular books and wondered how they ever made The New York Times Best Sellers list. But obviously enough readers had enjoyed them and joined the word of mouth band wagon that put them there.
I don't expect to become a household name, but I'm more than content that a number of readers love my books. They write to tell me so and post wonderful reviews. This spurs me on to continue writing, despite sometimes thinking I can never write another book. But that's a discussion for another day.
Glad you have received such a positive response to your new series. I prefer a character driven book as that is what makes it seem more realistic and engages me.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Debra. I also prefer a character driven book. Clearly, this isn't the case for every reader.
DeleteThey key is to find the readers who like to read your work and not worry about the rest. I'm glad you've found lots for your stories. And congrats on the new series.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jim. You're so right—we need to focus on those who like what we write.
DeleteBrings to mind the old chestnut "There's no accounting for taste."
ReplyDeleteSo true. A writer friend said that's why there are different flavors of ice cream.:)
DeleteI recently read a book with characters made out of cardboard. Other than squabbling about past and present hurt feelings, they were not interesting nor credible. Carry on!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Margaret!
DeleteWell said, Marilyn, and true. I always like books peopled with characters I'd enjoy sharing a coffee with.
ReplyDeleteWell . . . maybe not the murderers.:)
DeleteGreat perspective, Marilyn! Not every book is for every person, but when you have a loyal group of readers, you know you're doing something right!
ReplyDeleteKait, That's what we have to remember.
DeleteSorry, that was for Lori.:)
DeleteYou have a healthy perspective if you recognize that not everyone is going to like what you write. Sherry Harris‘s daughter said to her when she got a poor review, “Not everyone likes peaches.”
ReplyDeleteGrace is right about your healthy perspective, Marilyn. Sherry Harris's daughter is, too.
DeleteThanks, Grace and Molly. My friend Johanna, who writes books for kids, told me that not everyone likes vanilla ice cream.
DeleteTrue! I’m going to write that on my wall. Not everyone likes peaches. <3
DeleteIt's something we need to keep in mind.
DeleteThank you for your article. It inspired me to me to keep writing!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad, Valerie. Keep on writing!
DeleteMarilyn - Why shouldn't you expect to be a household name?! You've written so many popular books.
ReplyDeleteAt this point in life, I'm thrilled if a perfect stranger should tell me she's read one of my books.
DeleteGreat post!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Judy!
DeleteI chuckled at the review, " Every character has a problem." My thought on that is that conflict enhances the plot. Great post, Marilyn.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kathleen. I think no matter what we ever write, someone will object to it.
ReplyDeleteThis post was just what I needed to hear this week, as I’ve just self-published the first of three cozy mysteries set in Maine. Thank you for your words of wisdom!
ReplyDeleteGlad that you've received largely positive reviews on your new series! Your Dickens Island series is on my TBR list.
ReplyDelete