Tough as an armadillo
May 28th 2008
Rachel GibsonOn Writing!
Having a new book out is always a mixed blessing. It’s a great accomplishment to see the book I’ve worked so hard to write finally hit the shelves. It’s always great when readers and reviewer love the book, but at the same time, I know that some readers and reviewers aren’t going to like it. While I really wish everyone loved every book I write, I know that isn’t realistic. Just like I know that some people who don’t like it are going to let me know, in detail, what offended them the most. And believe me, I always offend someone. I don’t mean too; it’s just my special gift.
Not Another Bad Date is my twelfth published novel, and over the years I’ve developed fairly thick armadillo hide. I mean after all, when my first book came out, some reviewers and readers called me the “faux Phillips” and wanted my head on a platter for writing contemporaries similar to their “beloved SEP.” Talk about baptism by fire. Now, I’ve met SEP. She’s a great person and a lovely woman with a fabulous talent. I love her books, but I don’t think I write like her. I think I write like me.
By my third book, some readers and reviewers were predicting the end of my career, saying I’d “jumped the shark” and was “phoning in my books.” This really left me more puzzled than angry. I mean, how do you jump the shark after three books, and is it even possible to phone in a book? If so, I’d like to know how to do it because writing them is really hard work. I’ve also been accused of “laughing all the way to the bank.” Not sure what this means since I have direct deposit and don’t drive to the bank, but I do think saying an author has jumped the shark, or is phoning in books, or is laughing all the way to the bank is crossing an ethical line. Those things are not part of a book review but are a personal attack on the author.
I’m also baffled by the readers who’ve read every book I’ve written and hated them all. Maybe I’m an exception, but I just don’t read books by authors whose work I hate. I just don’t like to put myself through that kind of pain and misery. Call me a wuss.
Do you think the anonymity of the internet has made us a less civil society? Is everything fair game? Have you had to develop armadillo hide?
63 Comments »
63 Responses to “Tough as an armadillo”
Gillian on 28 May 2008 at 6:13 am #
How ironic, I’ve got Tangled Up in You on my desk now ( I work in the schools, and start trying to catch up on reading every summer) and I’m loving it!
The internet and email promise a very false anonymity and it’s sad that our kids really see it as such. Yes, people say dreadful things just because it’s a computer screen. Maybe if they all came with mandatory webcams. . . but then no one would really want to see my hair at six am. . .
My Armadillo hide came with age, although I still hate conflict. It’s the Libra in me. I want people to get along!
Judy F on 28 May 2008 at 6:34 am #
I loved Not Another Bad Date. Kudos.
I thing people think since its on the internet its open hunting season. I have read some reviews that are so snarky that they barely mention the book. I just don’t get those reviews.
We were just talking about all of this at lunch yesterday, the cyber stalking, the kids taping fights. Its a sad day
Karen Rose on 28 May 2008 at 6:39 am #
Rachel – I think my armadillo hide is rather porous
Has the anonymity of the internet made us less civil? I don’t know if it’s made us less civil or allowed the inciviltiy that was already there to find an easy route out. People used to snarkily whisper around water coolers and under the dryer at the beauty shop – now they post to review boards and send email. I agree with Gillian on the personal webcam!
Karen Rose on 28 May 2008 at 6:40 am #
Oh, and congratulations on your new book! Can’t wait to read it!
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 6:53 am #
Ain’t nobody on God’s green earth going to be seeing me via web cam at this hour of the morning! Uh uh!
I agree with Karen Rose. People have always whispered snarkily somewhere. The venue has just broadened with the Internet. And the Net is much more public than a water cooler. It’s a heady thing to be able to just say what you think. I’m ashamed to say I’ve done so in the past when I was new and shiny to such things. If I didn’t like a book, I’d just HAVE to say so somewhere. I don’t know why but I do apologize to the writing world in general.
I don’t enjoy every book I read. Even by favorite authors If I’m not enjoying it by page 50-75, I take a peek at the end. Then, I close it and stow it away for awhile. Down the road, I’ll try again. If I still don’t like it, off it goes to the library’s ppb section. Somebody who reads will enjoy it.
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 7:01 am #
This does make me curious. Do you writers read the reviews? I’m thinking of the reader’s reviews at amazon.com. And the reviews at Romance Reviews & The Romance Reader.
By the time they get their reviews on-line, I’ve long read whatever book it is. So, they don’t really help me decide on a book.
Which reminds me, theater critics have long had a reputation for snarky reviews of plays & actors performances. Here’s a couple from Dorothy Parker. I love her snarkiness:
“This is not a novel to be tossed aside lightly. It should be thrown with great force.”
“If all the girls who attended the Yale prom were laid end to end, I wouldn’t be a bit surprised.”
“She runs the gamut of emotions from A to B.” Speaking of Katherine Hepburn of all people.
Kathy/Cookiedough on 28 May 2008 at 7:01 am #
I can’t wait to read the new book!
I picked See Jane Score as my first Rachel book, and was hooked. I’ve been plowing through all I can find. really great stuff. sexy, warm and LMAO hilarious.
I just finished reading Sex Lies and Online dating. snort!
I LOL at the I must love you part.
I don’t understand why we have so many wonderful compliments thrown at us for any given reason, yet the criticism is what we take to heart.
The internet has sadly become a dumping ground. People can express themselves in so many artistic ways and that can be lovely looking around the web. then you get the nutjobs who think recording the worst possible moments in someone’s lives is allowed and tolerated.
For the most part, sadly, it is.
Kim on 28 May 2008 at 7:37 am #
Oh Rachel, you just have a way of finding my hot spots, don’t you?
Personally, I just do not see the point in wasting my precious time and energy on telling someone (or the whole world) why I didn’t like a book or an author. I also don’t see the point in writing an email with a detailed outline of all their mistakes. sheesh. You read a fictional romance novel for enjoyment and pleasure. Its not the constitution, lighten up!
No offense, but I don’t think you’re anything like SEP. I enjoy both your books and find them quite different. Its like comparing Almond Joys to Reese’s Peanut Butter cups. They’re both yummy and satisfying but it totally different ways. Just because they’re both chocolate does NOT make them the same thing.
While I agree with the others, that there has always been snarkiness and venom in the world, I DO think the internet has helped spread it. People don’t edit themselves at all because its just words on a screen to them that will never come back to bite..
Lisa H on 28 May 2008 at 7:41 am #
Margaret – LOL on those quotes from Dorothy Parker – especially the Yale one!
Rachel – I am the proud winner of your book in the Forum from last week’s contest, and I know I am going to love it based on all your blogs. Here’s a famous quote from John Wayne, the ultimate cowboy, “Don’t let the bastards get you down.”
Enjoy your well-earned success, revel in your direct deposits and let your fellow goddesses shower you with deserved praise!
Oh and congratulations on having 12 books published. Any of us who write know having a book published is more difficult than finding a moral politician.
Kim on 28 May 2008 at 7:41 am #
cont.
them in the kiester. There’s no accountability for your actions or words anymore. At least when it was gossip around the water cooler you were somewhat restrained because you knew it could come back to you. Now if someone says “Did you post this about me on xyz site??” you just change your email and username. No accountability!
*rant over*
Congratulations on your bouncing new baby book, Rachel!! I absolutely can’t wait to read it. And I so solemnly swear that if I don’t gush over every single word written NOT to email you about it or post it on Amazon
Jessie on 28 May 2008 at 7:41 am #
I agree with KarenR that the Internet just gives people more access to our incivility. Before the Internet, if someone didn’t like a book, they would air their views to their friends, but with the Internet, they put it where the author can see it.
I put a lot of stock in Amazon reviews. You can tell when someone has put a lot of thought into their review (or when they haven’t). If I’m thinking about buying a book by an author new to me, I always try to find a well-written Amazon review to make my final decision.
I’m curious like MargaretG, do you writers read your Amazon reviews? Have you ever read anything in them that has made you rethink your writing?
RachelG on 28 May 2008 at 7:59 am #
I don’t mind snark–if it’s not personal. But the problem I see with being a snarky reviewer is that the tone gets more and more acrid because the snark has to top itself. I think a lot of snark deteriorates into a narcissistic wasps nest with people piling on.
I think there is a big big difference between water cooler gossip and personal attacks on the internet.
And yes, every writer that I know reads reviews on Amazon and elsewhere. Although there are some sites that I avoid like toxic waste.
rachelg
Karen Hawkins on 28 May 2008 at 8:09 am #
Congrats on the book release, Rachel! I have NOT ANOTHER BAD DATE on my bedside table right now and started it last night, which is why I’m a wee bit sleepy this morning — ok, ok, a LOT sleepy this morning. I was JUST going to read ONE chapter and the next thing I knew, it was one a.m. and I was on chapter ten.
For the record, I don’t think you write anything at all like SEP. Your voices are very different. The only similarities I see are 1) Genre, and 2) Both books contain humor. Ah, that’s about it.
I’ve grown a pretty thick skin so far. Bad reviews don’t bother me though I do resent people who suggest that, just because THEY didn’t like my book, that I didn’t try. That’s so rude. There are some people out there who, like our media, think that no one will pay any attention unless they’re saying something ugly. That’s sad.
RachelG on 28 May 2008 at 8:14 am #
Jessie,
I was asked years ago if I ever change the way I write because of something I’ve read in a review. My answer is still no. I was shocked by the number of people who were shocked by my answer.
1. I have read something about my book one day and then read the exact opposite opinion the next.
2. Ultimately, I have to write to please myself first.
Emmiebee on 28 May 2008 at 8:30 am #
Rachel,
I loved Tangled Up In You, can’t wait to get NABD- I’m so glad that you don’t listen to the sourpusses out there. I really can not stand reviewers who personally pick on authors, or who claim that a writer did not give her best effort. Yeah, like a professional writer who LIVES on her book sales and her reputation as a “Keeper” is just going to throw any schlock out there. HA! From what I’ve seen from reading the Goddesses’ comments, it is more like presenting a beloved child to the world and hoping that she gets the love you have always wanted for her!
As for my armadillo skin, yup, it’s always on board at work. You would not believe how often a tearful pet owner says to me “it’s not my fault that I don’t have any money. You should treat my pet for free. You must not love animals at all.” Blink Blink. Of course, that is exactly why I gave eight years of my life to schooling, accept a salary that is way below other medical fields, and come home covered unsavory substances
Emmiebee on 28 May 2008 at 8:34 am #
cont.
every day. It’s not like we don’t offer pet insurance, a payment plan, and as many treatment options as possible- I know that there is almost always SOME WAY to help. It’s the “you just must not care” comments hat break my heart. Whew! I guess there are chinks in that armor after all! Thnks for the chance to rant, guys!
-Emmiebee, Professional Pet Snuggler
Susan M on 28 May 2008 at 8:37 am #
Oh I forgot Not Another Bad Date was coming out Rachel! I swear I’ve been in LaLaLand lately. I will be running right out at lunch today to buy it. (Thank goodness I work down the street from a Borders.) So please forgive me! I grovel before you!
I have not developed armadillo skin. I need to though. I’m too sensitive and get my feelings hurt too easily.
doglady on 28 May 2008 at 8:42 am #
Emmiebee, I feel your pain. I quit working as a vet tech after five years because of owners who said those things and then callously walked away with an “Then put him down, I’ll go to the pound and get another one.” Of course many vets I worked for then fixed the pet up and found them good homes – with owners who ACCEPTED the responsibility of pet ownership – financial and all!
Rachel, I loved TANGLED UP IN YOU, and I know I will love NABD! I had to develop a very tough hide as an opera singer. As much as European directors loved my voice, that’s how much American directors hated it.
The internet allows people to show their true colors and I think many of these “girls” who post snarky reviews do it for the oldest reason in the world – jealousy. Many of these kids are writer wannabes who have been snarked at themselves so they take out their frustrations on successful writers like you. This business is for grownups, not petulant little girls with the emotional age of say 14.
Kari on 28 May 2008 at 8:45 am #
I TOTALLY think that the anonymity of the internet has made us a less civil society. The venom that people spew back and forth at people is just nasty. Like Kim said, if you get called on something you can just change your online identity or disappear for that matter.
I would NEVER put too much stock into Amazon reviews. Ever. Or any review for that matter. Who’s going to guarantee me that I will totally agree with the 5 star review, the same review that prompted me to purchase the book in the first place(that I ended up hating)? And on the other side of the coin, maybe the 1 star review was totally off base but it caused me to not purchase the book. That’s not exactly fair to the author, let alone to all the other potential buyers of that book.
As far as reviews go, I don’t think there is a clear answer. There are too many people in this world with too many varying opinions for everyone to like a book.
I’m as thin skinned as they come.
Kari on 28 May 2008 at 8:50 am #
Oh and, I’m very excited that NABD is finally out. I’ve read the other 3 book, totally out of order, and am looking forward to Adele’s story.
Sheridan LA on 28 May 2008 at 8:54 am #
First, (off topic – kinda) I head out to Borders… I go to the new releases.. no new RachelG. I head to the romance Mecca… No new RachelG.. they DID, however, have Sex, lies and Online Dating.. which I has thought I read, but as I glanced through – seems I did not… so I picked it up.. then stopped by the H’s.. picked up (finally!) K-Hawk’s story of Black Jack (they have not had this for weeks – thanks for the lack of sleep last night, KH… I am loving it already. heh) Then I see they had a “Buy 4, Get 1 Free”, so except for one by Elizabeth Lowell, it was a Goddess sweep! woohooo
now, back to topic. (next window, cuz I know I will run out of room)
Sheridan LA on 28 May 2008 at 9:00 am #
As RachelG said, snark breeds snark. Where so many were being gossipy and snarky around the water cooler, the Net has bred a whole gaggle of beasts who would be too scared in real life to say things like that to a person’s face – and the anonymity has given them a way to project their own unhappy little lives onto others. As in real life, the most caustic and hateful people are usually the most unhappy with themselves and their lives – they then channel that to others.
For reviews, I look at the whole average of something. If something has 47 reviews averaging 4 stars… figure it is worth checking out… 3 reviews and 2 stars… I read the reviews to see what was up with so few to average.. 300 reviews and 2 stars.. not going there. I also don’t usually listen to most “respected” book critics.. Many seem to feel that the overuse of obscure words makes for “excellent literature”, whereas I find it a pain to read. Yeah, I know the words, sometimes, they are fine..
Sheridan LA on 28 May 2008 at 9:05 am #
but suck me into a story with the narrative and the flow..don’t impress me with big words. I was a Lit major – neither the red pen nor the thesaurus frighten or impress me
No one likes criticism of our work.. but most of us don’t have the added pressure of our work being dissected in such a public place. I figure if you all still get published, you have fans that salivate upon your new releases and you have a little fan enclave where people hold you high upon mythical pedestals, you are way ahead of the rest of us who don’t quite get that type of validation of our work.
Julia London on 28 May 2008 at 9:07 am #
Hahahaa….I have the same fan, a woman who writes me with every historical to tell me why she was disappointed. What’s funny is that she is usually disappointed by this one compared to the last one, and conveniently forgets she was disappointed in the last one. I actually pointed that out to her the last time she wrote, and at least she had a sense of humor about it.
My skin is fairly thick, but it’s like K-Ro’s — it’s porous. Some stuff gets in. I am always a little surprised by what gets in, tho.
Good luck with the new book, Rachel!
Kathy/Cookiedough on 28 May 2008 at 9:27 am #
my skin is paper thin but waterproof. I get hurt but then I can just can shrug things off-I can’t make everyone love me, so I better love myself enough!
As for reviews. I NEVER go by online reviews- don’t even check them unless they are on the authors site. and those are always favourable -as if you’d put up a bad one! LOL
I read the plot outline. Also standing at the bookstore and reading the first page or so does me just fine!
If someone likes a books and passes it along, I’ll try new ones that way, sure, but not everyone has the same taste in books.
One friend seems to read only paranormal or self help books. One sister only reads sci fi, one reads everything she can get her hands on.
and so on down the line.
SuzyQ on 28 May 2008 at 9:31 am #
Yes, I think the internet gives some people the ticket to say whatever they want, no matter how vicious. I doubt very much they would say the same things if meeting people face to face or were to give out their real name. I’m all for constructive criticism, but when it turns into a personal attack, that’s where the line has been crossed. I once posted on a technology forum and some (insert colorful adjective here) person felt the need to venomously disagree with me by calling me all sorts of names. Needless to say, I never went back to that site again.
My skin is very tough. I really don’t care what people in general think of me, it’s my close friends and family that count. They are the ones that matter. I’ve come to realize that you just can’t please everyone – so if you like me great, if not, that’s ok too.
Rachel my first book I read by you was Tangled Up In You and I loved it. I know I’ll love the new one too
Lismore on 28 May 2008 at 10:53 am #
Rachel, thank you for having armadillo skin and continuing to write! Your book, See Jane Score is one of the reasons I started reading again. College, corporate America and having a child, put a damper on reading for pleasure. Once I was able to retire, I found that book which lead me back to enjoying the romance genre.
Definitely the internet has made people less civil. The nasty comments strike me as a person who is a cyber bully and has low self esteem.
Nicole Jordan on 28 May 2008 at 11:03 am #
Sheesh, I could probably write a whole book on this topic, Rachel, lol. I’ve always said my hide has grown as tough as an alligator’s, but armadillo is much better.
Big Congrats on the publication of baby #12! I’m headed out in a minute to pick it up. Can’t wait to read it!
Karen Hawkins on 28 May 2008 at 11:43 am #
You know, I don’t mind negative reviews from people who honestly just didn’t connect with the book. That happens and I respect them for bothering to put up the review.
But why get ANGRY? And some people do.
I once got a letter from a woman who blessed me up one side of the street and down the other because a future hero’s hair color was wrong in the excerpt for the next book. Did you get that? The hair color was wrong in the EXCERPT, and NOT in the ACTUAL book. I never saw that excerpt, btw, until after it was printed. We don’t get to proof them or I’d have fixed it. Anyway, she typed up this furious tirade, called me lazy and a disgrace to the genre, said it was horrible mistakes like mine that made people scoff at romances, and then said she’d been trying to get published for 20 years and seeing lazy mistakes from ‘undeserving’ authors like me just made her sick.
Btw, she had THREE errors in her letter and it was only ONE page long. Not that I was counting or anything . . .
Kim on 28 May 2008 at 11:54 am #
>>>>>>>>>>then said she’d been trying to get published for 20 years and seeing lazy mistakes from ‘undeserving’ authors like me just made her sick.
Right there, KarenH, you hit the nail on the head. To me, most of those nasty reviewers are just jealous that you’re publishing and they’re not.
Rachel–you’re exactly right about the personal attacks. It is NEVER okay to attack another person like that. um, unless they’re the Verizon tech support and I’ve had spotty internet for 3 days. Then maybe its allowed;)
I’m trying really hard not to get into the whole flawed Amazon reviewing system and a certain reviewer *sigh*
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 12:07 pm #
LOL Kim. I’ll bet I know who you mean.
Karen, maybe that woman should concentrate on why she’s not getting published instead of being jealous of those that are. She might have had some success. I’ll bet she’s written one, count ‘em, one book in that 20 years. I don’t know how one gets published, but I’m pretty sure it’s not tearing another writer to bits. Sheesh
I’m still waiting for the UPS truck to arrive. We had a nasty storm last night. So, the icky weather of yesterday is gone and sitting outside is rather nice today. The light is great for knitting.
BTW, do any of you read Elizabeth Lowell’s Running With Quills blog? Talk about jealous. She & DH have gone on a 7 week cruise of Canada’s Inside Passage. On their own boat!!
RachelG on 28 May 2008 at 12:08 pm #
Thanks everyone who’s picked up a copy of NABD. You guys are super-d-duper.
The funniest “fan” letter I ever got was sent to my p.o. box. It started out:
Dear Ms. Gibson,
“I hated The Trouble With Valentine’s Day. Kate was a sex crazed whore.”
The letter ended with:
“Put your God given talent to better use and quite writing smut.”
I still have that letter and pull it out when I need a good chuckle.
rachelg
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 12:22 pm #
And did you quit writing smut, Rachel? *snicker* Obviously that person didn’t know smut from smudge.
Karen Hawkins on 28 May 2008 at 12:35 pm #
RACHEL! BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Frame that puppy! That’s hysterical! Yup, that’d make me grin, too. A LOT!
I have a framed letter from when I worked as a Direct of Student Activities and we got a letter from the Science Prof who served as the college’s Haz/Mat Committee Chair. We’d gotten a 10k donation from a construction company to build a sand volleyball court, which the students were soooo excited about. Her letter was about the dangers inherent in such a facility, including TWO PARAGRAPHS on the dangers of getting goose crap into cuts on your feet.
Goose crap.
To quote my student committee, “BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”
You know, I’ve never had a letter or review (that I know of) that said I wrote too much sex in my books. Too little, yes. But never too much. I’d be proud if someone told me I wrote too much sex. Actually, I’d like to think there isn’t such a thing as ‘too much sex’ to begin with. Heh!
Ronlyn on 28 May 2008 at 1:08 pm #
People are so wierd. I mean, really, why waste time writing scathing letters to an author about not liking their books. Or saying that they got a bad haircut and they should grow it out again. I mean, really. I think the anonymity of the internet does make it easy for people to lash out at others. I notice it even in my real life. Like the patient who called me irresponsibile because he ran out of his medicine over the weekend. Gosh, I guess when I was getting the meds out for him that morning I didn’t notice he was getting low. *rolling my eyes* I’ve become somewhat famous in my office for saying, “You can’t fix stupid.” some people are just wierd.
RachelG on 28 May 2008 at 1:38 pm #
You know, I don’t think I’ve ever written smut, although my MIL used to introduce me as her DIL who writes dirty books.
Karen,
I do plan to frame that letter some day. Usually nasty letters go in my Freaks Of Nature File–aka my garbage can. But that one was to good.
rg
Lisa H on 28 May 2008 at 1:52 pm #
I am smiling over your “too much sex” complaints. I think the appeal of the romance novel is the ROMANCE. Those wonderful moments of discovering someone who is the whipped cream to your hot fudge and the magic of uncovering all the intricacies that make up who they are. This is the appeal. Sex is a natural result of romantic moments and falling in love and if you asked me, I’d say its the best part of life (except for having babies) (but again, natural result of romance!)
By the way, if you’re doing it right, sex is a very good thing, not immoral considering God created it!
LisaK on 28 May 2008 at 1:57 pm #
I have to say I really appreciate it when people politely tell me their honest opinion about things I – in their sight – did wrong (except when I KNOW I’m right!) and in so doing help me being better next time. But I absolutely can’t stand people who say offending things about you just because of jealousy and because they don’t know better.
I had to develop armadillo hide in grade 5 for I was bullied by my classmates for months (I always was the best in class, very quiet and quite ugly with glasses and braces, so an outsider) until I had the guts to go to a teacher who finally stopped that crap. That’s pretty hard for a twelve-year-old, but from then on, everybody treated me with great respect for my courage, so eventually I was the winner, hehe.
I dont’t think the internet makes us a less civil society for the ones who are uncivilized on the internet are uncivilized in their “real lifes” all the more. It (i-net) just gives people the chance to faster make their savageness public.
LisaK on 28 May 2008 at 1:59 pm #
Oh, and, Rachel, everyone who speaks ill of your books definitely has no clue!
TarotByArwen on 28 May 2008 at 2:18 pm #
In my past, I’ve been lauded by my friends for my catty, sarcastic, down right mean snarkability. I used to think that was a good thing.
I’ve come to realize that if I wouldn’t say something to your face, then hiding behind a computer screen and doing it is just cowardice. I’m still sarcastic. I still have a inner bitch that loves to come out and deliver pithy statements. Now I ask myself… would you say that in public?
If it can pass that test, then I still say it.
And I have also seen how much more fun it is to be nice than mean.
So are we less civil on the internet? Yes, and there is a mob mentality that goes along with that. Check the blogs where someone says A and someone disagrees with A. Then the sides are drawn and everyone must speak their piece. It’s almost as though we fear not being heard more than we fear being though uncivil.
What is the cost of being heard at the sake of hurting someone else?
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 2:37 pm #
The UPS man giveth. While I was doing something else, he sneaked up and left 2 boxes of books on my porch. Oh the joy! 3 books!
The cover is great, Rachel. I really like that raised lettering. I’m afraid I’m one of those people who has to look at a book all over before ever reading a word. Examine the cover, the spine, the back. Read the summary. Then, open the cover and look at the first page. I don’t mean page 1. I mean the first page with any writing on it. After that, I look at the book list. Like I don”t know they all by heart. I’ve read (and have) every single one of them. The title page is next. After that, I have to check out the copyright page. I love paper. O yes. I have to smell the book, too. Run my hands over, in this case, that raised lettering on the cover. Then, I’m ready to read the story.
Call me semi-eccentric.
The things Texans love is great. LOL
dbrown3400 on 28 May 2008 at 3:18 pm #
I was one of the lucky ones whose Borders had NABD in early so I finished it yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed the book. Funny, I think you write just like Rachel Gibson. Imagine that!
My skin isn’t always as tough as that armadillo although I’m learning that it’s what I think that matters, unless someone whose opinion I value highly is giving me advice.
Tarot, I have a sarcastic sense of humor, too, but try to hold back when people actually ask me if I’m being sarcastic. I guess it must lose something in the translation.
dbrown3400 on 28 May 2008 at 3:40 pm #
I review books for Romantic Times BOOKReviews and read genres I wouldn’t ordinarily read but have found that a really good book transcends the genre. I hope this means I can put my personal feelings aside when it comes to reviewing. Some books aren’t structurally sound and don’t get a good review and others have that extra spark that put them above the rest. It’s the ones that fall in the middle that I have the hardest time reviewing because I know how hard each author must have worked on that book. I, too, find it abhorrent when a reviewer makes a review personal rather than a just giving some of the content and an opinion of the author’s accomplishments with that book, whether good or bad.
PS – And I hate reviews that are nothing more than the blurb off the bookjacket.
Donna
Suzanne Enoch on 28 May 2008 at 4:00 pm #
I’ve always said that I’ve developed rhino hide, but alligator and armadillo work just as well. It used to be that I took every word of criticism to heart, but as Rachel said, I’ve realized that I can only write to please myself.
I got one email from a nice lady who said she loved my historicals but if I didn’t quit using such bad language in my contemporaries she would stop buying my books. I would prefer that she just not buy the contemps, but it’s up to her. Because Sam and Rick talk the way they do, *&*$ it, and I can’t change that to suit one person.
Suzanne Enoch on 28 May 2008 at 4:01 pm #
Oh, oh, oh, and I’ve been called a Julia Quinn clone so many times I could barf. I suppose if two people write humorous historical romances, one must be copying the other. Right, Ka-Ha? *g*
Sheridan LA on 28 May 2008 at 4:08 pm #
Random question.. Arwen, you don’t by chance live (or have lived) in Nebraska, do you?
and Suzanne, maybe they compare you to Julia Quinn because you all have quotes on each others books or something… honestly, I discovered your books years ago while reading a Julia Quinn book or her website or something and she mentioned you and your writing… Figured if she liked ya, then you had to be good.. and I was right!
Claudia Dain on 28 May 2008 at 4:19 pm #
Raising my hand, waving, as a writer who does not read reviews, Amazon included. I guess it’s because I lack the ability to splice the required armadillo DNA. I just don’t get anything good out of a review, particularly a bad one. The book is written. I loved it. I tried my best. What can I do about it now? Besides, I loved it. *g*
I do think the internet, the facelessness of it, has allowed the monster in people to escape without retribution. Even at a water cooler, people knew who was saying what. Now, not so much.
Congrats on another great book, Rachel!
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 5:01 pm #
Good grief, Suzanne! I sure wouldn’t have seen that comparison and I read both of you. Hmm Nope. Don’t see it. Separate styles. Equally enjoyable.
I can vaguely (very) see the comparison of Rachel and SEP. They write about sports teams. Of course, one is football and one is ice hockey. But, hey, a sport is a sport. Right? And overlooking the fact that each has written books that have nothing to do with any sport except maybe bedroom ones. Why they probably sit in the same room to write and feed each other cute/pithy paragraphs. Is that what you and Julia do? *smirk*
Egads. I don’t know if I’m being snarky today or just caustic toward people who don’t think before engaging mouth. I promise to settle down by tomorrow and be a good girl.
Karen Hawkins on 28 May 2008 at 5:07 pm #
Enoch, we need to ask for a nickel every time someone uses the ‘Quinn clone’ phrase so we can just STAY in the bar at the national conference each year. We’ll belly up, dump our wheelbarrows full of nickels on the floor, and say “Can you run a tab, please?” Sheesh.
It’s almost as if no one but JQ (who does it well, I should add) can write 1) a Regency 2) with humor w/o being a copycat. So if you do it, then you’re obviously copying her, when in reality, I’m doing a modern spin on Georgette Heyer who was doing her own modern spin on Jane Austin. We all add in the elements that speak to us from the authors we love, but we do it with our own voice and spin. Or so I think.
Ok, off to finish up my Daily Quota so I can get back to Rachel’s book. I read two more chapters at lunch and want to finish it tonight — I HAVE TO!
Judy F on 28 May 2008 at 5:10 pm #
I was at a booksigning a while a go and an author said a reader sent her back the blaze book she bought with all the sex parts underlined. With a note saying she needed to tone down the sex. LOL
I sometimes read the reviews at amazon and B&N it amazes me that the book I adored is trashed. Its usually for a dumb reason. A recent book by Erin McCarthy this women went on and on about missing pages. That isn’t the authors fault and what did that have to do with the book.
(margaret don’t change)
Sheridan LA on 28 May 2008 at 5:28 pm #
BAH! Not fair all of you who have Rachel’s new one.. I have been DENIED!
I am going to stop putting faith in my Borders and their new releases.. weasels.
*pout*
Margaret Garland on 28 May 2008 at 6:05 pm #
LOL Judy. That reader got the thrill of reading all those bad sex parts and the smug feeling of getting to tell the author how trashy her book was. A twofer. It’s like back in the day of the movie censors. They got to see the movie that was denied the rest of the movie-going public. Then, they could tell us that it was too nasty for us to see.
I can remember when the Hays Code was still in effect. I think it began to disappear and vanished completely in the 60’s. I had to Google old Will, of course. If you want to read The Code, scroll about halfway down.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_H._Hays
The first shocking movie scene I can remember is Deborah Kerr/Burt Lancaster rolling around on the beach in “From Here to Eternity”. Very steamy at the time.
SuzyQ on 28 May 2008 at 6:07 pm #
Sheridan – my local Borders never have the new releases out. I always find someone and have them go in the back and get my copy. So far I’ve been lucky and they always have them in the back.
Sheridan LA on 28 May 2008 at 6:40 pm #
I will ask em.. I did go onto the computer and it said it was “On the way”
is it too much to ask?? really??? I have been known to plan weekends around new releases (especially the harry potter books.. but that madness is over, thank goodness!)
RachelG on 28 May 2008 at 7:06 pm #
Thanks everyone for going above and beyond to locate Not Another Bad Date.
I just drove to three different Wal-Mart’s tonight and none of them had Not Another Bad Date on the shelves. Borders had my books out. B&N had to go to the storage room and get them.
This is such a crazy biz. So much of it is out of my hands and up to people who are more interested in watching the clock for break time. Having said that, if any of you reading this post stock books for a living, I’m sure the above generalization doesn’t not apply to you. I am sure you’re hard working and brilliant. Over worked and underpaid and never appreciated. Now, get to work and stock my book!!!!!!!!!
rachelg
Sabrina Jeffries on 28 May 2008 at 7:58 pm #
I’m trying to pay less attention to reviews, frankly. For one thing, as you said, Rachel, one person will say they hated a character, and the next person will say they loved the character. The ones that kill me are the reviewers who say, “I love all of Sabrina Jeffries’ books, but can’t stand this one.” Then you go to look at their other reviews, and they haven’t reviewed the books. Why not write good reviews for the ones they supposedly liked? Wouldn’t that balance things out?
I do think that every reader has a right to say what they wish about any book, and probably we should let them do it in peace and not bother them by reading the reviews, since it’s hard to stay objective about it.
HOWEVER, I get infuriated by the “phone it in” comment, since I have never phoned in a book in my life. Each one requires much angst, torment, and slaving over words. I don’t like being accused of being lazy, EVER.
(cont.)
Sabrina Jeffries on 28 May 2008 at 8:06 pm #
Oh, and I get furious with reviewers who say all the good reviews must have been posted by my friends and family. My family doesn’t READ my books (all that dirty stuff, you know), and my friends are far too busy to be posting reviews for my books.
The thing that really annoyed me recently was someone in an Amazon discussion (BEFORE the book came out) saying my plot sounded a lot like one of Suzie’s. Since I hadn’t read the book they cited, I thought it was interesting to be accused of stealing Suzie’s plot (out of laziness, of course). This sparked two other speculations about the same thing. Of course, once the book came out (and everyone discovered that the two books are nothing alike), nobody said a thing. Now the discussion is up forever, linked to that book, in which people SPECULATED months before release that I must have stolen the plot. No basis for this idea except my back copy and Suzie’s book. It still makes me mad.
But I’m not bitter or anything.
Kathy/Cookiedough on 28 May 2008 at 9:09 pm #
I’m one sad chick right now
flat broke and two new books to buy! wahhhhh!
Rachel, sniff sniff, I have to wait to get your book.
Kathy/Cookiedough on 28 May 2008 at 9:10 pm #
yours and JQ’s new one are out on the same day!
And nop money for either.
I want a new book!
ok rant over
evlqn on 28 May 2008 at 10:03 pm #
Personally i think anyone who can’t tell the difference between one author and another should probably give up reading for reality tv, after all THAT is always SOOO different! I do think that everyone is getting more and more rude because there doesn’t seem to be any consequences for bad actions. The internet is a prime example.
My sister and I have a way of arguing that works for us, we argue the issues and not personalities. And when the fight is over it is over, no “re-visiting” it later. We try to incorporate that attitude in our online and live interactions.
Didn’t anyone remember the old adage, “If you can’t say something nice about someone, don’t say anything at all.”? Don’t get me wrong, I have a wicked temper and a mouth to match, I just try to kepp it in check. What is the point in hurting someone’s feelings in the name of honesty?
I will be in the bookstore on Monday with my list at the ready.
Suzanne Enoch on 29 May 2008 at 12:14 am #
Hey, cool, Sabrina! I had no idea! That discussion reminds me of the one about my book where everybody trashed it before it came out because I hadn’t gone with a heroine the readers expected. Worst book ever, and they hadn’t read page one. I would appreciate if someone would at least read the book before they trash it. Sheesh. *g*
Tiffany James on 29 May 2008 at 5:54 pm #
I don’t know if it is the internet making us a less civil society or if it is the hectic pace we all keep, too many options, too much processed food (hey, don’t touch my Twinkies) or what…but I think that is why forums like this are so great. It’s a place to hear positive, supportive comments (for the most part). Heck, 50++ comments to how many bad reviews? You know who your friends are…and we love you! Can’t wait to get my grubby, Twinkie coated fingers on Not Another Bad Date!
Tiffany :0)
gibb k on 08 Jun 2008 at 10:58 am #
I just finished devouring Not Another Bad Date and I loved it. Curious I went online to check out the reviews for Rachel’s book. Man, was I shocked. I felt so bad for Rachel. Some of these reviewers were so cruel it just made me mad.
We read these books for enjoyment. Those reviewers that pick apart the littlest things should get a life. I’m not going to mention the site because they don’t deserve more exposure.
The anonymous nature of the internet lets mean people get more vicious and that sucks. But it did make me want to write an encouraging note to Rachel to ignore those bitter folks. I love your work! Especially See Jane Score, Tangled up in You, The Trouble with Valentine’s Day, Daisy’s Back in Town, True Confessions and Truly Madly Yours. I’ve read and kept every single title you have.
I’m glad you have a thick skin because I want you to write more, and more, and more! BTW- I love your books and SEP’s books – but you’re books are steamier and I love it!