Guest Goddess Lori Foster!
Feb 9th 2009
Your Friendly GoddessesGuest Goddesses & On Writing!
Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a Waldenbooks, Borders, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martins, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain. She is currently with Berkley/Jove and boy, do our goddesses love her work!
We’re thrilled Lori climbed Mt. Oly today to be with us here for a few hours. Please join us all in a big goddess welcome to Lori Foster!
Disappointed readers.
Goddesses, thank you for inviting me to blog with you!
For once, I don’t have to wrack my poor taxed brain for a topic. I have one burning right in the forefront of my mind – disappointed readers.
Boy, hey, I sure do have them right now. If you don’t believe me, check out the current 50+ Amazon reviews on my new release, My Man Michael. You’ll see a whole lotta “1” star reviews.
One reader wanted to post a 1-star review to ensure my rating stayed down. On a different message board, a reader wanted to “beat me up” for writing a futuristic. It’s been a little crazy!
In contrast, I’ve received some wonderful emails, and one lovely reader sent me a note saying, “It’s a hard road to write what you THINK fans want.” Amen sister! Down that road lay disaster, I’m sure, because readers are wonderfully varied and individual, and we ALL have different preferences, and pet peeves.
That’s why I always write for me first. If I tried to do it any other way, I wouldn’t produce much, because I write best when I love what I’m writing. And that means allowing my oh-so-crazy muse to run wild. When my muse kicked up a futuristic story idea for Michael “Mallet” Manchester, I just said, “Sure, why not?” Sounded fun to me.
In hindsight, I can see that I should have asked the publisher to put on the cover, “FUTURISTIC” or something. But I like to write the books and leave the packaging to the publisher. Trust me, writing the books is enough.
My Man Michael is doing well, so it’s not that I’m worried about my sale numbers. And I 
got broken into negative reviews with my very first published book, Impetuous, when RT gave me a 1. So I’ve kind of grown a thick skin about it all.
I wish I could leave every reader super-satisfied with every book. But I’m a little more grounded in reality than that. For each book release, I have happy readers, and unhappy readers. It comes with the territory.
I just like my readers so much – all of them – that I am sorry for disappointing anyone.
So what are your pet peeves? What ruins a book for you? If you dislike a book, do you write a negative review, too? Do you get outright angry, as I’ve now seen some readers do?
Inquiring “authorly” minds want to know!
Happy reading everyone,
Lori
110 Comments »
110 Responses to “Guest Goddess Lori Foster!”
evlqn on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:11 am #
Welcome Lori.
Opinions are like rear-ends, everyone has one, some are just better than others. If I am disappointed with a book I will try to finish it in hopes it improves. However if the going gets too hard I just stop reading it and go on to another book. I rarely “dis” a book, if I didn’t like it I just don’t recommend it to anyone. Someone else might like it much more than I.
A real turn off for me is bad or sloppy editing. mis-spelled words, out of order paragraphs. Characters who act like they couldn’t find their way out of a paper bag with a guide dog and road map are another. Guys who treat women like they don’t have any business being out without a leash and the women who let them live. Especially if they are the main characters.
There are some authors I wouldn’t read again on a bet but I at least read one or more of their books before i reached that conclusion.
Judy F on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:28 am #
Hey Lori, great to see you over here. I am sorry the reviews are getting to you. Evlgn turn offs are very similar to mine. I hate characters that are TSTL. Sure everyone makes mistakes but out of character actions or just plain stupid irks me.
If I hate a book I don’t review it cause its just not in me to be negative. I just don’t see the point of ripping an author a new one. It might be someones cup of tea just not mine.
I certainly don’t get angry. Life is to short.
I can’t wait to read My Man Michael. And it was great seeing you on Saturday.
Ayse on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:56 am #
Hi Lori
I haven’t read your book yet, but I must say LOVIN the cover
If I dislike a book one of my favorite authors wrote I usually can’t write a bad review. If asked I’ll tell people, but putting it online seems so mean. I’ve read some negative reviews and people can get weird.
What ruins a book for me>>>? hmmm… I’d have to say when the hero cheats or is overly alpha to the point he comes off as a creepy (I love Judith McNaught, but hated one of her book (a fan favorite) because I really wanted to wallop the hero).
Pet peeves… when the bitchy woman in the book also gets a good end. Send her to the colonies or something
, the commercial inserts in the middle of a book (HATE THEM!), the way they’ve jacked up the prices on ebooks (grr). I don’t run into this a lot in romance novels, but I go nuts when a story just stops. It’s like the author just got bored and was like ok let me just end this.
I remember reading about an author that got stalkerish on amazon because of a bad review. I was kinda tempted to annoy that author, but restrained myself
Bronte on 09 Feb 2009 at 5:10 am #
I have to say I have never written a negative review and I have never gotten angry at an author. I do think that publishers need to be clear what genre is being written though. As a general rule I dislike books written first person (however there are some very notable exceptions to this rule), and I will get peeved if the blurb misrepresents this. I also think that romance books that are not a self contained HEA should be marked clearly to that effect.
What ruins a book for me is unlikable hero/heroines. I find this particularly in the paranormal genre. There is such an emphasis on having (particularly) kicka## heroines that sometimes I find myself feeling sorry for the hero because she’s such a complete cow. I was particuarly turned off a book where the female lead and two of her friends tied up the hero naked and fairly well much abused him. If this was written with gender reversed I don’t think it would have been published.
However at the end of the day I vote with my money. If I think the book really stinks, I will never buy that authors work again. If I’ve read one good, one bad then they get another try.
Gillian on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:21 am #
Lori! I can’t believe RT ever gave you a one! I’m glad your successes have proved them wrong.
I don’t like books that wrap up endings really quickly, like everyone’s trying to cram a story into a page count, but other than that—I don’t assume a book is BAD if I don’t care for it, I just assume it’s not my cup of tea. Thank heavens for the variety of romances out there, something to suit us all.
Continue to be true to your muse, whatever you need to write, and a great many of us will gladly read it!
Susan M on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:26 am #
I don’t write reviews at all and especially not negative ones. If I really dislike a book then I just won’t read anything by that author anymore. I did once throw a book across the room though. It was a really good book up until the point the hero had sex with a woman who was not his wife. I really hate that. That entirely ruins a story for me. I have seen and experienced cheating too much in real life so I really don’t want to read it in the books I read for an escape. I also do not like it when a rape is vividly described. That is such a turn off and completely unnecessary. Spelling and grammar can also ruin a book for me. One or two mistakes here or there I can overlook but when the entire book has mistakes in it, that can be very distracting.
PJ on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:45 am #
Welcome, Lori! I’ve been a fan for years. I review books for romancenovel.tv and also post reviews at Amazon, B&N and on my Facebook page. I’ve been accused by some of not being a competent reviewer because my reviews are so positive. Hey, I’ll take that kind of criticism any day! I rate my review books on a scale of 1 – 5 with 5 being my best score. I try to be as fair as I can in writing a review and I do state where I think a story may be weak or what doesn’t work for me but if I can’t give a book at least a 3 I won’t publish the review. I’ll pass the book to another reviewer or set it aside. What we like or don’t like about a book is personal and subjective. Why should I try to negatively impact an author’s sales just because I didn’t like the book? Who’s to say someone else won’t love it? Instead, I’ll continue to share what I enjoy about books with other readers and, hopefully, turn them on to authors they may enjoy too.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:47 am #
Morning all!
Thank you for your posts. I want to make sure I’m real clear about something though – I don’t mind negative reviews! Readers have a right to their opinion, and Amazon is just one of many forums for them to “vent” when they feel cheated or disappointed with a book.
What I can’t quite understand is writing the author a hate note. LOL. I had a woman write me to say she was my #1 fan, had loved everything I’d written, but the current book turned her off so bad she’d never buy me again.
She ranted and raved for two paragraphs! I was like… =:-0
And the person who wanted to beat me up. LOL. Over a book? Just take it back to the store and buy another, ya know?
Anyway, I didn’t want any reader to think I was trying to silence her opinion.
Oh, and Bronte, I’m not sure what the publisher’s stance is on labeling a book TT or any other subgenre, so I can’t speak to that. I tried to share that info in all my forums… but I guess it wasn’t enough.
Judy, it was fabulous to see you Saturday too! I had so much fun AND sold lots and lots of books. But you can bet I forewarmed every reader that the book was TT. LOL
Hugs to all!
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:49 am #
Hi PJ – and what a great attitude about reviewing. I’m not sure I’ve ever sent a book to you for review, but to you and any other reviewers on here – if you want to be added to my list, just drop me an email at lorilfoster@gmail.com and I’ll put you in my file. That’s Lori L Foster @ gmail dot com
Thanks!
Lori
cail on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:50 am #
i’m in the camp of don’t write a review at all, with the exception of an ‘i liked it’ or ‘i didn’t like it’ on our forum here. Its a rare day when I truly hate a book (only RN i never finished was a bodice ripper where she ended up in a harem), so chances are if i don’t like it, it will only be mild apathy.
That being said, i also am very cautious about trying author’s other genres. I have been reading (and commenting) on this blog since it started, and i have yet to try any of the typical historical author’s contemps. Some are sitting in my TBR pile, but they passed the back cover test, or just felt like contributing to first week sales.
I think it’s really unfair to complain about an author’s book because it wasn’t what you were expecting. Silly readers should have read the back cover!!
Things that ruin a book for me are main characters that are TSTL or far too alpha. I can get over typos etc, unless it really takes me out of a book.
PJ on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:52 am #
Misspelled words, incorrect word usage and using the wrong character name pop me out of a story faster than anything and it seems to be happening more and more often. I don’t know if people are overworked, uneducated or just lazy but poor editing has become increasingly prevalent in the past couple years. Just this past week I was reading a book where the heroine and hero were in a very intimate scene and she called him by her brother’s name. It wasn’t part of the storyline, just an error that wasn’t caught in editing, but it sure was a scene killer for me. I also don’t like it when the hero or heroine cheats by having sex with someone else. Doesn’t work for me in real life and I sure don’t want to read about it in fiction.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:52 am #
Gillian, there have been many times that RT didn’t like my books.
That, to me, speaks of their integrity on some levels, because even if I have a one-page color ad with them, they’ll diss the book if they don’t like it.
I’ve heard authors complain about that, as if getting the ad should influence the review. But from my perspective, I LIKE it that RT doesn’t pad things, regardless of advertising. I’m pretty sure the departments are separate and they don’t coordinate on those things.
So while I don’t enjoy negative reviews from RT, I DO enjoy their honesty in reviewing.
BTW, no judging me on typos or other stupid mistakes on here. I’m still working on my morning coffee and trying to get both eyes open!
Lori
Lisa H on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:53 am #
Hi Lori – Welcome!
I love that you write what you love, the story in your heart! I think that is the key, and I hope you never stop (doesn’t sound like you plan on it)
As for negative reviews, if I don’t like a story I won’t give a negative review. One book that has been recommended and loved by many women on different blogs and by authors I respect, I hated. Reading it was like going to the dentist. Sometimes a book just doesn’t click with me, it doesn’t mean its a bad book, but for some reason, it didn’t move me. I would never try to hurt the author.
I am a “newbie” writer and know how much work and effort go into producing a book. I don’t feel qualified to trash anyone’s sweat and tears, and I don’t.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:56 am #
Cail, the big complaint on my current release is that the back cover copy did NOT make it clear to readers that it was a TT. I thought it did, but then I’m too close to the story. The hero is badly injured, the docs say his legs will never be the same, and woman “appears” with an offer to fix ‘em up.
I thought that screamed TT, but apparently it didn’t. One reader said she thought it was a dream sequence type thing, and another thought the woman would take him to a foreign country where they had better medical practices…. So I can see the reader perspective on this.
Authors are so close to their books that it’s often difficult to judge that stuff. It’s like when I write something funny… I know the humor going in, so it might not be nearly as funny to me as it is to a reader.
Ditto on tearful scenes. I sometimes cry over a scene while writing it, because I’m IN the character’s POV, but I didn’t convey it enough to make a reader cry.
:::shrug::::
How a reader and the author view a book are sometimes worlds apart!
Lori
Bronte on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:58 am #
Hi Lori
I actually did know that your book was time travel – I thought the blurb and excerpt did a great job of giving a heads up. It’s actually a gripe I have about other books. I might like said other books, I just want to know ahead of time what I’m getting (that sound’s wierd doesn’t it??)
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:01 am #
Lisa H., hon, I hope you can see how *I* react to the negativity, and use it yourself. (Are you new to writing, or new to being published? I wasn’t sure.)
I still see successful authors who fall apart when the negativity starts, and it’s so sad.
Authors HAVE to have a thick skin. A REALLY thick skin.
It doesn’t matter if a hundred people love your book, someone will hate it with the burning passion of a thousand suns, and that person will be the most vocal. LOL
Always, always just shrug it off, okay? Do NOT let it get you down. If the book wasn’t good, the editor wouldn’t buy it. Remember that!
Okay, that’s my “new author” advice for the day. LOL
It crushes me to see new authors hurt in a process that should be all celebration.
Happy writing!
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:02 am #
Yay Bronte! YOu’re one of the few who says she GOT it about the TT. I thought it was clear, but I’m just the author – what do I know? LOL
Hugs!
Lori
Lisa Cooke on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:18 am #
Hi Lori!
I agree with some of the pet peeves of the above. I don’t like a book that wraps up the conflict too quickly, and I don’t like rushed romantic tension. You are soooo good with writing romantic tension. Your heroes are sexier than any others out there! LOL. AND I had no problem with the TT aspects of Michael’s story. The way you handled those negative reviews was very classy (but I already told you that
Thanks again for all you’ve done for me!
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:32 am #
Lisa Cooke!
Hey folks, meet Lisa Cooke, a new and totally FAB author of historical romance. I got an advance read of Texas Hold Him and it was just too delish!
Lisa, remind me again when it hits the stands? April?
Thanks for the kind words, too. I’m thrilled that you liked My Man Michael!
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:34 am #
BTW… A friend sent me this on Facebook and it’s hilarious. I know readers can get really rabid about their favorite books, but… this is unreal!
http://www.cinematical.com/2009/02/05/fan-made-bellas-womb-from-twilight-aka-creepiest-fan-made/
Check it out!
Lori
Lisa H on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:34 am #
Hi Lori – I totally agree with needing a thick skin. I have a pile of rejection letters that if I dwell on, would find discouraging. My first book will be out this year, I am currently in the editing process. I’m sure many won’t like it,(its more of an “old fashioned” regency) but my editor saw something there, and ironically, she is also a reviewer for Romantic Times, so I am feeling okay about it.
Ultimately we have to write the stories of our hearts, the ones that fight to get out on paper, and I feel good about doing just that.
Thank you for your advice. I will take it to heart!
BTW – Happy Anniversary Goddesses!
Deb on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:34 am #
Good Morning Lori,
I am proud of My Man Michael it was a wonderful read, now I need Deans story..lol
It is always a nice treat to be shakened up by authors.
I admire you for trying something different.
I must say I am enjoying your darker side as well.lol
*smooches*
LoriHandeland on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:37 am #
Hi, Lori!!! Thanks so much for blogging during our anniversary week.
Lori was lovely and gave me a quote for my urban fantasy series. If you like UF, check out her alter ego LL Foster. Great stuff!
I don’t really have any pet peeves. What I think I don’t like, I’ll read in a book and decide that I don’t mind it after all. What one author does that might now work for me in that particular book will be fine with another author, another plot and other characters.
I would never write a negative review because I know that every book isn’t my cup of tea, but the next one might be. If I read several books in a row by an author that I just can’t get through, I’ll stop reading that author, although I may try again in the future.
I don’t get angry about books. Life’s too short and I’ve got plenty of other things in my life to be angry about!!
amy1242 on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:38 am #
Welcome to Mt Oly, Lori!
There have been a couple of favorite authors that I’ve read that I didn’t like a particular book, but it was because of the TSTL factor of the heroine or hero. I hate the helpless female who just sits and whimpers or the ones that are so b****y they don’t deserve the hero. BUT, if I normaly enjoy that authors books, I’ll pick up her next one, with the mindset it will be a good one. I have no problem jumping genre’s. I’ve seen authors do it with no problems at all. I enjoy the change and applaud the authors open mindedness and courage to do so.
I say, “go with the story in your head, it’s there for a reason.”
Ayse on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:45 am #
I saw Twilight last night despite many of my friends telling me not to. I actually liked it, but can’t decide if I should read the books b4 the rest comes out :-/
How much you wanna bet that person could probably get a good deal selling that weird womb on ebay
Marcia James on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:50 am #
Hi, Lori! I’m sorry some people get their jollies by writing negative reviews. If I like a book, I write a good review; if I don’t like it, I figure that it’s just a subjective thing. And I don’t write a negative review about it. There was one romance a couple years ago in which the hero physically abused the heroine (his wife) for a YEAR! Then she left him, years went by while he went to anger management classes and got sober, and then they got back together. It was SO unrealistic, I thought it sent a dangerous message to abused women. — Marcia
Lisa Cooke on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:52 am #
Hi Lori–Thanks for the plug! LOL. TEXAS HOLD HIM is going to be released in about 6 weeks and I’m biting my nails down to the nub. I’m really looking forward to your June event. I’ll actually get to meet Karen for the first time.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:53 am #
Lisa H., MEGA CONGRATS on your first book! How fun.
Always, always keep the fun part of writing. If we lose the pleasure of our craft, what in the world is the point? I keep the perspective by looking at all my blessings. 3 healthy, handsome, motivated sons, a beautiful and healthy grandson, 30 years of marriage to the BEST guy for me… if someone doesn’t like a book, oh well.
Deb, thank you. My “dark” side is something new that I’m still nurturing. I’m guarding it a little more than I do my straight romances, because it’s still a youngin. LOL I’m always doubly thrilled when someone likes the L.L. books.
Right now, it just means a whole lot more to me!
Lori
amy1242 on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:53 am #
Lol, Lori! Thanks for that link! I’ve bookmarked it to show my daughter when she gets home from school today. She and I both loved the Twilight series, but she seems to be obsessed with it. This will gross her out!
Ayse, read the books first. I saw the movie but liked the books so much more.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:54 am #
LoriH, how are you!? How is that wonderful urban fantasy series doing? I hope it’s kicking some butt sales-wise.
I feel the same ie getting “mad” over books. There are some real injustices in life that I get angry over, but not a book.
I remember reading a book by a favorite author of mine, and I didn’t like it at all. I stopped reading her for awhile. Then Stella Cameron recommended to me another of this author’s books, and I was hesitant. She convinced me, and that author is not only a fave again, I’ve gone back and reread the book I disliked… only to find that it has become one of my favorites! How weird is that?
Lori
gibb on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:56 am #
Hey there Lori
I’ve been a fan since your Harlequin Temptation days. Loved the Buckhorn Bros. series – it made me want to visit Kentucky. I especially loved Gabe’s story
I don’t review books. I’m also a beginner writer and I go along with the Thumper’s school of thought – ‘If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say nothin’ at all!’ If I don’t like it, I don’t like it, but somebody must have.
Reviews on Amazon and some other blogs that are super mean make me feel so bad for authors. The anonymous nature of the internet seems to let some people be as mean as they wish. Just because they might now care for a certain book, they could learn to temper their language in the reviews – that’s somebody’s 6-9months of blood, sweat and tears. It’s much easier to tear things down than to build it up- word by word.
So keep writing and traveling in that RV of yours. Sounds like a great life. Do you ever sign in Orlando?
elsiehogarth on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:58 am #
Welcome Lori! I have to say that I am a big fan of all the Winston Brothers and their cousins. Those are some mighty fine gorgeous men. My Man Michael was excellent and look forward to more.
I don’t write reviews in Amazon, B&N, Borders etc. because not only do I think it’s very hurtful but some times I’ve read the same book and I actually don’t see or get where the person was coming from with their view. For myself, if I’m not feeling a book I just put on the side to try again at another time. I could be having a bad day, have something on my mind etc. but I will try it again when I am in another frame of mind.
I belong to a Reader’s Group (12 Ladies) that has been together, for 18 years, and can honestly say that we really disect any book that is our monthly read. We usually ask the author of our chosen book to please send us discussion questions and then we just add on to it. Then when we’re done we’ll discuss any other books we’ve read during the month. It’s always a fun evening.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:58 am #
Hey Amy,
I’m not sure I jumped genres because the book is STILL a romance, just twisted a little. But I totally get your meaning.
Ayse, I saw the movie and thought it was boring beyond words. I like tons of action and it was all teenage angst. But my niece reads the books and LOVES them mega-much.
Marcia, oy! Yeah, I’m not sure about that book. I can’t stand characters – male or female – who are abusive in any way. And I detest cheaters. I can better understand in historicals, because we have to read based on the social setting, what was acceptable for the time period.
But contemporary? No way.
Yay Lisa Cooke! Not much longer to go. I’m sure the book will do great – I LOVED it!
Lori
Tracey Devlyn on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:59 am #
Hi Lori – Personally, I’m glad you write different subgenres. If you hadn’t, I might not have ever found you. I like books that take me away from “today,” so contemporary romance isn’t a genre a gravitate to. Your Servant series, however, is a different story. For those who may not be familiar with this series, it’s an urban fantasy with a kick-butt heroine. Love it, and I cannot wait for the third installment.
Continue to stretch your creative mind, Lori. For every disappointed reader, there’s two fans to take his/her place. Besides, all they have to do is read the back cover blurb to know it’s futuristic.
See you at the Get Together in June!
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:01 am #
Hi Gibb,
I’ve been to Orlando but I’m not sure I’ll be there again this year. I’ve got a lot of contracts to work through, and while I enjoy writing in the RV (and find I’m very productive parked by a lake or river) the travel time really eats into my writing time.
So… we’ll see.
But man oh man, I can NOT wait for spring! I need warm breezes and flowers and green grass again!
BTW, the Buckhorn brothers have probably been one of my most successful series ever. Cracks me up, when you think of the concept of 4 grown men living together, all brothers but with 3 different dads and the oldest brother’s son isn’t really his. LOL
Imagine when I pitched THAT one to the editors! LOL
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:04 am #
Elsie, thank you. I’m actually working on a new Winston cousin right now. He’ll be in an anthology, Double the Heat, out in December.
Tracey, thanks! I am SO looking forward to the June event!
If any of you don’t know what that is, check it out under the “Community” link of my website. It’s the “Reader and Author Get Together,” and we have loads of mega fun without much cost. The entire weekend is only $50, which covers most of the meals.
Hugs!
Lori
ladydawgfan on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:05 am #
Welcome to the Mountain, Lori!! I’m a huge fan, and am currently seeking out your backlist, book by book (still have a ways to go, though).
My pet peeves are pretty much as above – bad editing & spelling, IMHO, are inexcusable in this computer day and age. I also stay away from books in the 1st person POV – they annoy me so much that I can’t even get through the first few pages, regardless of who wrote the book.
As for negative reviews, I think that every author has at least one “Evil Twin” book – a book that is not accepted by the fans and they think that it was written by the authors evil twin. One of my favorite authors had one not too long ago. It meandered here and there, the characters had sex for no reason whatsoever, the main couple had no chemistry, and the book just STOPPED!! No real ending, no conclusion, no denoument, it just STOPPED. It was one of her contemp novels (she mainly wrote historicals) and I am waiting for her to return to historicals before I pick up another of her books. And NO, it is NOT one of the Mt Oly Goddesses!!!
Claudia Dain on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:18 am #
Hi Lori! It’s so great of you to play on Mt. Oly for the day. Welcome!
I’m so sorry about the Amazon Blizzard. I’ve never written a bad review, and can’t even imagine why someone would do that. Not every book is for every reader, but that doesn’t make it a bad book. And I love your example of going back and reading a book that didn’t work for you the first time and now it’s a favorite. That happens to me, too, which is scary since what can you do about a reader’s mood when they pick up your book?
Uh, nothing. Just hope they’re in the right one to enjoy your story at that moment in time.
I’m really convinced that for every negative comment, there are a thousand people who loved it and just don’t think to post a positive review. Since I don’t review, this is something I can easily believe!
SuzyQ on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:34 am #
Hi Lori! Welcome to Mt. Oly!
I don’t write reviews and I don’t usually read them either. Some of the reviews I’ve seen on Amazon can be quite harsh. I mean it’s one thing to give constructive criticism and another to just be down right mean. If I happen to read a book that I didn’t really care for by a favorite author, that won’t stop me from reading their other books. However, if it is a book by a new author I am reading, chances are I won’t pick up another book by them.
As for peeves, count me in on the mistakes. One or two spelling errors are OK, but when it happens throughout the book and entire sentences are wrong it really starts to get on my nerves. Also, when the character names are wrong, like PJ said. Nothing will pull me out of a book faster than having the wrong character name pop up.
JudyPatooty on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:41 am #
Hi Lori! I’m so glad you’re our Guest Goddess today!
I am not a writer, just a devoted romance reader, so I can’t even imagine having to deal with negative reviews. I don’t know that I would have thick enough skin! I rarely write reviews of any kind except when I’ve been thrilled with a book and want to share my enthusiasm. If I come across a book that I don’t like, it’s really no big deal. Sometimes, it’s just where my mind is at the time. It may not have been the right book for me to read at the time. It’s not necessarily the author’s fault!
So what are my pet peeves? What ruins a book for me? Poor (or nonexistent) editing. There is absolutely no excuse.
Oh, and another things that peeves me … when publishers issue a Kindle version of a book that is based on Optical Character Recognition. The scanning/conversion process can be so error-prone it’s not even funny. There was one book I read in which the heroine’s name was Grace and every few pages, her name was printed as “Grate” or “Grade.” Grrrr. Thank goodness that doesn’t happen very often!
Dianne Castell on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:57 am #
Hi, Lori.
Some authors tend to write the same story over and over and that getssoooo boring.
You never so that and My Man Michael is a perfect example. Something new and fresh and exciting. Can’t wait to read it.
Hugs, Dianne
Yaya on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:01 am #
Welcome to Mt Oly Lori!
Me? I am one of those people that if I start a book I will finish it even if I dont like it hoping it will get better. I dont think I have ever encountered a book that I hated enough to post a review on.
In their own way I love them all. I have never posted a review good or bad. Now that I think on it I wouldnt use hate on any of the books I disliked.
Well goodnight girls. I’ll be back later. I went to sleep late last night and catched only 3hrs before i had to get up and take my brother to school for his very early football practice. Bye
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:06 am #
Hi All!
I took a break to force my pudgy butt on the treadmill, where I also read some more of Kresley Cole’s newest. Yum yum! I only allow myself to read on the treadmill, and if that doesn’t sway me, nothing will.
Kresley Cole is my new most-favorite author. She’s amazing. I have a real fan-girl moment when I know she has a new book.
I also have some of her older ones – historicals – in my tbr pile, waiting for a day between writing my own books. (that doesn’t happen often!)
Have you ladies read her? She makes me laugh out loud – repeatedly – and her hunks are sooooo sexy. Just amazing stuff.
Anyhoo, while was doing the torture-on-the-treadmill thing, you gals posted. Thank you!
In defense of the Amazon reviews (yeah, playing devil’s advocate here) I think a lot of readers felt duped. Many posted “bait and switch” because they really, REALLY wanted the new book to be in the same setting as the others. They wanted that interraction with all the previous characters.
But geez Louise, by book 4, it’s pretty tough to have ALL of them milling around with an overload of dialogue tags to distinguish everyone, ya know?
Hugs to all!
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:09 am #
Bad editing… well, I have a favorite TRUE story about that. As authors, by the time we finish a book, we’ve read it a gazillion times and know it by heart. So when we start to reread it during the line edit, copy edit, or galley (final) stage, our eyes tend to see what SHOULD be there, instead of what IS.
True phenomenon. Our brains and eyeballs are just too closely linked. LOL
So anyways… I was reading a galley for an older book, and in this one scene, the heroine had her hand fisted in the guy’s shirt.
Only “r” was missing from shirt.
Yeah, think about it. It gives the gesture all new meaning, huh? LOL. That story had been through several editors, and past me more than once, and only at that last moment did I “see” it.
What a funny mistake that might have been! I’m so glad I caught it or readers everywhere would have had a new reason to cyber-choke me. LOL
Lori
Sabrina Jeffries on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:19 am #
Welcome to Mt. Oly, Lori! We’re thrilled to have you!
I must confess that I’ve had about 3 books that really made me angry–in one case, I felt like the author made me fall in love with the heroine, then deliberately killed her off in the final scene because she thought it would be “artistic.” I get angry when authors set up what I see as a contract with the reader and then deliberately break it to be “artistic.” But you know, that’s only my perception of it, and I really needed to be more understanding about it.
You’re right that authors need a thick skin. I’m bracing myself for the release of the final book of my new series. I think it’s the best book I’ve ever written, but it involves a character who’s been anonymous for 5 books and will be revealed in that book, and I’m terrified that readers will be disappointed in my choice, just because there’s no way you can please everybody. There’s not much I can do about it now, though, except avoid Amazon for the first month or so.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:31 am #
Sabrina, I bet most readers will LOVE your choice. But yup, you can’t please everyone.
As to killing off a character – oh, that would break my heart! I read romance for the HAPPY endings, not for a dose of reality in death.
Lori
Nicole Jordan on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:37 am #
Hi Lori! We’re thrilled to have you on Mt. Oly!! I’m a shameless fan of your books… love ‘em! You create some of the sexiest heroes around. Haven’t read Michael yet but it’s on top of my pile.
For pet peeves, killing off a major character would do it for me. And I remember HATING Forever Amber cause I thought she deserved a happy ending after all she’d been through. That’s the only book I ever remember throwing at a wall.
As for reviews, I love what Elvqn said: Opinions are like rear-ends, everyone has one, some are just better than others. LOL!!
I don’t mind negative reviews if they’re thoughtful and sincere, but if they’re just trashing an author who’s dedictated months of her life to creating a novel, that’s what gets me. On Amazon more and more “reviewers” seem to be getting this way. It’s a shame.
Nicole Jordan on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:43 am #
Oh, and big congrats on your NYT list showing! #4 is fabulous! Obviously a lot of readers liked the book enough to send sales soaring through the roof.
Lisa on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:52 am #
I am glad you brought up this topic as it was on my mind the other day. I am just a fan of romance books but I have been reading the critics on All About Romance. I get angry at the ratings used by these so-called reviewers. When the critic gives an author a C or below because she didn’t like the hero or she could not “get in to him” just drives me crazy. To think that a letter grade by a critic who probably hasn’t written a book in her life tries to decide the fate of a book this way is wrong. Just because she doesn’t like the “hero” does this make it a bad book? No! This site gave Susan Elizabeth Phillips a C on a great book just published. Just goes to show that these critics are wrong.
Lisa on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:55 am #
I must correct what I wrote above about Susan Elizabeth Phillips review. She was given a C+. Her book deserved an A+ not a C+.
Rachel Gibson on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:56 am #
Welcome Lori,
I’ve never understood reader’s anger. It can be so over the top that I’ve come to the conclusion that the anger has less to do with a book and more to do with what’s going on in the reader’s personal life.
I’ve never written a review. Good or bad. Something that makes me put down a book pronto is heroes who think like woman.
rachelg
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:05 am #
Nicole, I am SO flattered that you read me! Thank you oodles. You’ve made my day.
Yes, the NYTimes is always sweet – but oh so stressful. On the day when the list is posted, I leave the house and go to the movies so that I’m not “waiting on the call” from my editor. It makes me nuts. I like to get home, check my messages, find the one where my editor is laughing at me for leaving, and THEN get the good (or sometimes bad) news.
That list is something that I NEVER take for granted.
I liked the rearend analogy too.
Funny!
Hugs,
Lori
Freedom Writer on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:05 am #
Welcome to Mt. Oly Lori. I dislike books that leave plot threads unfinished. I recently read a story that ended that way and I feel completely unsatisfied. I would ever leave a nasty negative review though I might comment that it was not my type of read. I am big on letting people decide for themselves what is good and what is bad. If I felt a book was that unreadable, I would put it down and move on to something else.
Lisa Cooke on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:06 am #
Okay Lori, you’ve convinced me. I’m going to order a Kresley Cole book right now
I also agree with Rachel’s peeve–I want the hero to be all man. In real life, he probably would make a terrible husband, but hey- if I wanted real life, I wouldn’t be reading a novel about pretend people, right?
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:08 am #
Hey Lisa,
Well, they don’t like me much at AAR, so I don’t go there often. A reviewer there once told me that her review of my book wasn’t critical enough and the “higher ups” made her change it.
I know that meanness is popular, but I don’t get that.
When folks tell me that they think Mrs. Giggles is funny, I feel bad for them. I’ve never gravitated to bullies, and while I think an honest opinion is ALWAYS welcome – negative or positive – a deliberate attack on an author, reader, or anyone is just plain obnoxious.
That said, some of the discussions at AAR are fantastic, and I love their various polls.
I also like hanging out at the RT boards. The readers there are honest, but fun.
And they do love their books!
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:10 am #
Boy, hey, Rachel do I hear you on that!
Sticking to MALE pov is a blast for me, but then I’m surrounded by men and there are times when my house drips testosterone. LOL
However, all of my guys – the grade-A hubby, the 3 awesome sons and the oh-too-cute grandson – are all super nice, considerate, Alphas.
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:12 am #
Hey Freedom Writer,
:::wince::: I did that once – left one of the many threads dangling – in Jude’s Law so that I could wrap it up/carry it over in Murphy’s Law.
I’d just seen Kill Bill 1 & 2 (my all time faves!) and LOVED how that was done.
So in Jude’s Law I wrapped up the romance, but left the “bad guy” still on the loose. It was fun for me, but… um, yeah. Readers were not amused. LOL
Lori
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:13 am #
Lisa C., you will LOVE Kresley’s books! I can almost guarantee it!
Lori
Kendra on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:33 am #
Ewww on the womb thing. I’m a Twilight fan but this makes me a little ill. What was going through his mind?
Last night a fellow author sent me to Mrs. Giggles where she’d torn apart another friend’s book. I’d never heard of the website before. Wow. My friend was a little relieved because Mrs. Giggles doesn’t seem to review much of her subgenre. She told me to never tell her if one of her books ends up on the site. Although Mrs. Giggles does have some hot men photos.
I avoid reviews. I don’t want to know what someone else thought of a book before I read it.
Great analogy of butts to reviews, evlqn.
Buffie on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:42 am #
Hey Lori!
Just like PJ, I’m a reviewer for Romance Novel TV. And like she said, we try to write positive, encouraging reviews so that more readers with read romance. We are not there to tear down the author and their months of hard work. If we just don’t like the book, we pass it off to another reviewer who is bound to enjoy the book. That is what is great about having such a diverse group of reviewers. There is always someone who will enjoy the book.
What takes me out of a story are difficult names. If I can’t pronounce it, I am bound to lose a little interest. And I really can’t stand the “big misunderstanding.” That is one plot that does not draw me into the story and invest my emotions with the characters.
Talina Perkins on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:50 am #
I have never written a review of a book. I do recommend books to others if I think it is a good read. I don’t understand people who leave angry reviews or worse. It might be that they think that is th “in” thing. What it really boils down to is people not being well mannered enought to remember what they were taught as a child….if you have nothing nice to say don’t say it at all!
I’m on board with Rachel, that the hero has to be all male.. no wimps !!! Anything else is not good enough!!!
Suzanne Enoch on 09 Feb 2009 at 10:55 am #
Welcome, Lori!
Having had my share of bad reviews, the only ones I mind are the ones that attack me personally. Believe me, I didn’t intentionally write a book that any reader would hate. I’m not mean that way. *g* So feel free to dislike the book, hate the book, throw it against a wall, but sheesh, don’t hate ME.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:18 am #
I hear ya ladies.
Something gross – one of the reader-reviews compared the book to “used toilet paper.” I mean euewwwwww! Beyond critical, imo. LOL
Lori
Lisa W. on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:25 am #
I usually don’t write reviews if I don’t like a book, I usually just talk about the things I don’t like with friends and family. But when I do talk about what I don’t like I always say that if they like the author usually they should read and make their own mind up. Each of us have our own likes and dislikes and what I don’t like someone else might love, and just because I don’t like that book doesn’t mean that I won’t love the next book that author puts out.
Rachel Gibson on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:50 am #
Toilet paper? That’s disgusting. What can you say about a person who would write a review like that?
A few times, I have been criticized for being homophobic, which cracks up the gay members of my family. Some people are just unhappy and have issues that have nothing to do with romance novels. We just become the focus.
rachel
catslady on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:53 am #
All a reader has to do is read the back blurb to get an idea about what the book is about so it shouldn’t have been a big surprise that you were writing something different. I’m all for variety and I agree a writer should write what she wants as opposed to some that write what they think will sell. Yes, I know it’s a business but most readers know when an author really isn’t into what they’re writing. And I only make a comment when I enjoy a book. There’s something for everyone and just because I don’t care for it, someone else probably will. Now if someone asks me I may say I didn’t care for a particular book but there is never any reason for being nasty about it.
nancyg on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:53 am #
I consider myself a pretty voracious reader – about 4-7 books a week. It’s my favorite escape (sorry, Tivo!). I can mark my page, do laundry, cooking, and cleaning, and come back and revisit the story anytime – if even for a few minutes with the bathroom door locked and little fingers wiggling under it. I very rarely put a book away, thinking it’s going to pick up soon or I’m too far into it and too stubborn to “just say no”.
There have been plenty times I’ve been disappointed in the ending. However, I realize that this is the author’s vision, not mine, and totally respect that.
I’ve written a few reviews on barnesandnoble.com – all positive. However, when a book has TOTALLY blown me away, I (1) buy about 4-5 extra copies and gift them to friends I think will like it with a sticky note on the cover saying, “read this…NOW!” and (2) try to take the time to e-mail the author and let them know how much I enjoyed the book (and why!).
I try and remember when a book has given me several hours of enjoyment, it’s taken the author months (maybe YEARS) of blood, sweat, and tears to get that book delivered to my bookstore.
So – to all the authors….THANK YOU for sharing!!
Cate Masters on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:54 am #
Hey Lori! Chin up – reading between the lines, the good news is, your fans buy your books without reading the blurb! So you must have a loyal following. You can never please everyone, so always go with your gut. It won’t let you down. I’m sure your fans wouldn’t want to read variations of the same story each time either. Happy writing!
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 12:19 pm #
I think you’re right, Rachel. And guess what? I have a secondary character in the next single title who is gay. It bugs me no end when gays are stereotyped. YOu know, all the guys are neat-freaks who love shopping. Um… NOT the gay guys I know! LOL
Ladies, something that’s WONDERFUL but also frustrating… I spend months writing a book, and a reader emails to say, “I read it in 2 hours. When is the next one out?”
LOL
I want to collapse.
But I love the enthusiasm!
Hugs,
Lori
nancyg on 09 Feb 2009 at 12:22 pm #
I know I just posted, but if I might take another minute or two of your time… I think it has to do with the economy. Hold on a second before you skip over the rest of the post & let me explain…
People are having to be more judicious with their leisure time/entertainment expenses. For example, I REALLY want to see the new Liam Neeson movie, TAKEN. However, instead, I’m taking my 9-year old to a matinee of THE PINK PANTHER 2. Liam will have to wait for me to rent the DVD and drool in the privacy of my living room.
It seems to me that the publishers are increasing the cost of the average book in all formats. Whereas a year or two ago I’d walk into Barnes & Noble or Borders and buy 6-8 books, I’m purchasing 3-4 now… So *perhaps* people are putting higher expectations on the books they buy now and are quicker to judge or express their feelings?
Just food for thought….
TerryS on 09 Feb 2009 at 12:57 pm #
I’ve been reading you so long that 1996 seems like a misprint
But, then again, you are much too young to have been published for that long.
I tend to simplify my whole process down to read once and forget about -or- reread, share/gift my friends with the book and, of course, my opinion.
When it’s read once and forget about it, I rarely, if ever, share anything about the book with friends. It’s over and done with and time to move on to the next book. Gosh, all the negativity to trash a book/author would be just awful for my karma (for wont of a better word). I mean, who am I to trash an author who has done something I can never see myself doing…write a book?
Worst case scenario, I don’t buy future books from that author.
PS – I’m still buying all your books. I’ve even graduated to listening to old favorites as they are released in audio.
Tal on 09 Feb 2009 at 1:08 pm #
If I see a redhead on the cover, or see the word “fiesty’ anywhere ,,FORGET IT… My mom is a redhead its nothing personal, but I just find every other bokk is a redhead on the cover, I JUst cannot make myself buy it, even if its my favorite author. Another pet peeve are heroines who are like 18, I know they married young in the 1800’s but that is just a turn off , again its a mental block.
I must be in the minority, I like the plain/shy, heroines, over 21.. noone ever writes those anymore..
Tal
Maureen on 09 Feb 2009 at 1:25 pm #
Hi Lori,
Years ago I did buy what I thought was an historical romance but it was really a time travel romance. The blurb never mentioned it at all and that was disappointing. Besides that obvious problem there are a couple of things that ruin a book for me. One of them is a hero or a heroine that I just can’t stand. I don’t think I’ve ever written a completely horrible review because when the book is that annoying for me I don’t finish it. I just don’t have time to read books or watch movies that I just don’t like.
Diane on 09 Feb 2009 at 1:41 pm #
Hi Lori,
I never give a negative review for a book–books are like people, it takes all kinds and all kinds like them. My opinion is just that, a subjective view of what I think. The only negative reviews I consider making are for actual items that do not do what they have stated they will do. That’s not subjective and all can benefit from those.
I like most heroes although I prefer reading a bit of the storyline before the main characters fall in bed. I also hate books where the girl gets pregnant and years later tells the daddy. That is just so wrong!
I love your books. I haven’t read My Man, Michael yet, but it is on my reading list. Sometimes controversial books are the best reads. Keep writing!
Amie Stuart on 09 Feb 2009 at 1:41 pm #
Lori…if a book doesn’t work for me, then it doesn’t work for me. Not a big deal. It is what it is. The beauty of books is there’s something for everyone.
But if it’s poorly written, and yes, I realize even *poorly written* is subjective especially when writers are probably 10X pickier than readers could ever been…anyway Poorly Written just pissed me all the heck off. I’m talking steam from the ears! LOL
But you know….I’ll read pretty much anything and as long as I feel like I know what I was getting into when I opened the book to page one, I’m good. In other words as long as the author makes good on whatever *promise* (for lack of a better word) they made to me on page 1, I’m okay.
Lisa on 09 Feb 2009 at 2:09 pm #
Lori: I just looked at Mrs. Giggles for the first time. I think Mrs. Bully would be a better name. Books that I love she gave terrible scores to. This person/ people can’t tell a really good book from a bad one. She gave Robyn Carr’s books basically an F. All her books are wonderful. She did the same to Kimberly Cates too.
I only once gave a bad review on Amazon and it was to Danielle Steel. After reading all her books for years even I got tired of the same trite phrases she has used to describe her main characters. Otherwise I would never give someone a bad review. I really think the reviewers from AAR and Mrs.Giggles are just plain mean.
Lea on 09 Feb 2009 at 2:18 pm #
Hi Ms. Foster:
I’ve only ever written i negative review and that was a long time ago. Now because of time constraints I only write reviews for books that I really love. Further, I respect what kind of effort goes into crafting a novel and since becoming familiar with the Amazon community and blogland, I’ve seen some pretty nasty unnecessary things said about books out there. I really don’t wish to contribute to that.
If I really don’t enjoy a book, I don’t finish it, I put it aside and move on to another book.
If it’s any consolation, I live in Canada and my local bookstore, which isn’t very big has the whole end of one shelf area in a busy isle devoted to “My Man Michael”, as near as I can tell, your book is selling off the shelf.
Take Care
All The Best To You
Solveig on 09 Feb 2009 at 2:23 pm #
Congrats on the new book Lori.
I never write bad reviews because somebody else might like it but I will be more cautious in buying another book by the same author. I love the saying “If you don´t have anything nice or constructive to say don´t say anything at all”. I have never gotten angry but if I don´t like a book I won´t finish it. What grates on my nerves are characters that to me are unlikable. Pride is a particular weak spot to me. Just yesterday I stopped reading a book where in my opinion both characters, both the male and the female, were just so full of themselves it was unbearable. Politics, espionage and cheating also depress me. In publishing I hate it when books don´t have a clear description on the back of the book what it is about. If I can´t get the gist I don´t buy it. And when they are badly edited, lots of spelling mistakes etc., that gives me the heeby jeebies :Ö)
Catherine on 09 Feb 2009 at 3:02 pm #
Hey there Lori
Popped over from RWQ. I read MMM and completely enjoyed it.
If I don’t like a book, I don’t finish it. Never written a review on a book, probably never will. Don’t buy books or watch movies based on review. The critics hated the A*Team from the 80’s, but me, I loved it!!
If you must respond to the “naysayers”, use my favorite comeback to my husband “Bite Me”!
Love your books, looking forward to Drew Black’s story
Catherine
cro on 09 Feb 2009 at 3:10 pm #
If I dislike a book, I try not to come right out and say so. I don’t wrute reviews on Amazon either way but if I’m asked I say why..many times it’s just there are too many secondary storylines in the book for my taste. I try to give the author 2 or 3 chances before I decide the author’s writing is not for me.
I will say an automatic turnoff for me fpr trying any future books occurs if an author can not accept criticism well on a message board if their work is being discuseed. It bothers me personally if an author jumps in to defends her choices in the story vehemently.
Trish on 09 Feb 2009 at 3:28 pm #
I don’t usually write reviews on books. That being said, if I really liked a book and I see a lot of negative comments, I will write one. And I can honestly say that over the past few years, there’s only been one or two books I’ve read that I truly didn’t like… and I’ve just stopped reading those authors. But I didn’t write any reviews. Just because I didn’t like the book, whether it’s the writing style, the story line, the characters, doesn’t mean someone else isn’t going to like it. I don’t want to discourage anyone who might want to read it. I’ve read negative reviews on some books that have ended up being some of my favorites. I’ve learned to just ignore the reviews and buy what I want to buy.
My pet peeve would have to been when I find consistency errors in a book. That drives me crazy!
dbrown3400 on 09 Feb 2009 at 3:34 pm #
Hi Lori.
Sorry I’m so late. I’ve read almost all your books; my favorite series is Men to the Rescue. Keep up the good work. Bad editing takes me right out of a book. So does a whiny heroine, or hero for that matter. A romance without an HEA leaves me cold although it doesn’t bother me in other genres.
I review for RT and am given no choice regarding the books. I’ve only given one “2″ to a book my editors say they would have given a “1″ but I just couldn’t do it. But it was poorly written and had no substance. Then there was the book I gave a “3″ that was made into a television series. LOL
Tanja on 09 Feb 2009 at 3:35 pm #
I haven’t read “My Man Michael” yet, but if there’s that many people uptight about it, I’ll probably like it. And if it’s got cool time travel – I’m so there. I’ll probably love it. Gotta move it higher up on my TBR list.
Every great artist eventually hits this wall. Even Bon Jovi. I think fans forget that we’re people too and we’re changing, growing, stretching and evolving. Some readers then find themselves out of their comfort zone. Some are more ready and accepting of the changes than others. Some can be resentful and nasty. I’ve seen it with friends and so it’s going to happen (unfortunately) w/ readers, whom we see as part of our adopted family. Hopefully, in typical family fashion – once they vent, they get over being disgruntled quickly.
Margaret on 09 Feb 2009 at 3:38 pm #
I am not a writer. I am definitely a reader. I get that authors pour themselves and their time into their books. And those books must also pass through several other hands before arriving at my local bookstore. I get all that and appreciate your efforts very much.
I do have strong opinions about books I read. If I didn’t, why the heck would I read? If I am indifferent to a book, I figure it’s just me as opposed to what the writer was going for. If I hate it, I feel betrayed in some fashion. But I can love a book with the same passion I hate another. I feel entitled to have an opinion. I’m spending money, time and energy that I might have directed elsewhere. Yes, some books have made me angry. I get rid of them asap. I can deal with typos. Sloppy editing bothers me. I figure proof readers are paid to watch for and eliminate them.
I disagree on the back cover blurb. I have read ones that are totally misleading. Hope I am not drummed off the Mount today.
Zita Hildebrandt on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:07 pm #
I posted a longer rant about this topic on my LJ blog, but I’ll just clip and paste a paragraph of it here:
“To flat-out tell other readers not to read a book because it was not the author’s usual genre is wrong on so many levels, it just makes me mad. I mean really, how snooty is that to believe that you know if I will like a book or not, just because you didn’t? Ever hear of censorship? The OE defines it as “to suppress or remove unacceptable parts of (a book, film, etc.).” Isn’t that what you’re trying to do when your favourite romance author writes a time-travel book instead and you tell other readers not to buy it? Maybe we should just gather them all in a big pile and burn them before anyone else gets a chance to read them.” You can find the rest of my rant at http://zita-h.livejournal.com/.
Lori, you write the stories you want, and I’ll keep reading them. Your books are good because of who you write, not where or when. The people in your novels are so interesting and well-written, it really doesn’t matter where you plop them
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:19 pm #
Nancy, that makes PERFECT sense! I know the economic pinch is affecting everyone, and that’s why I really, REALLY hate to disappoint readers. Hard earned money should not be spent on a book you don’t enjoy.
BTW, I hope you get to see Taken because it was pretty darned good!
Terry, thank you for sticking with me through all these years! LOL. I appreciate it!
Lea, thank you! How cool to know I’m represented in your area.
Hugs to all!
Lori – who just got back from Olive Garden and is stuffed to the gills!
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:27 pm #
Catherine, thank you so much! Yay.
Cro, I think authors might sometimes take criticism too personally. This book was my test, since all the amazon reviewers hated it. LOL. Mostly I’ve just apologized to those who were most put off by it. It is what it is – we all have our opinions, and we’re entitled to them!
Tanja, I hope if you find time to read it, that you enjoy it! Thank you!
Margaret, I don’t think anyone will throw you off the Mt.
Thank you for chiming in!
Hugs to all!
Lori
Jennifer on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:35 pm #
So what are your pet peeves? What ruins a book for you? If you dislike a book, do you write a negative review, too? Do you get outright angry, as I’ve now seen some readers do?
Inquiring “authorly” minds want to know!
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I’d have to say my biggest pet peeve with a book is when something specific (like profession or a past infraction) concerning one of the characters is repeated over and over again. I always think…”we get it already.”
What ruins a book for me…well, that one is tough as there is more than one thing. But I’d say “description” either not enough or too much ruins a book for me. I like enough description so I can see people and places in my minds eye. But I don’t like so much that I just deem it extra “fluff” (like what the lady walking down the road is wearing when she has no relevance to the story) to take up page space.
Yes, I will write a negative review if I don’t like the book I just read. I have read up to 4 books a week. I have several book reviews on http://www.barnesandnoble.com and also on Facebook. My negative review percentage is considerably lower than my positive reviews. No, I don’t get angry.
Jen
Jessa Slade on 09 Feb 2009 at 4:48 pm #
Who has time to read books they don’t like? Every book I’ve ever finished gets 5 stars from me because unless it grabs me, holds me, and calls me the next day to say how much it loved me
I don’t even get to The End. There are so many lovely books calling my name that I don’t lose sleep over the ones that don’t do it for me.
BTW, your attitude toward the 1-star bombers is very inspiring. You are a true goddess
Tammy Yenalavitch on 09 Feb 2009 at 5:09 pm #
Hi Lori,
The only book I remember making me mad was Diana Palmer’s book Fearless I thought the hero was abusive and mean to the heroine. Funny thing too as I own nearly every Diana Palmer and I am a huge fan, but this book set me off and I hated it. On the other hand, I love your books.
Dilimis on 09 Feb 2009 at 5:11 pm #
Hey, Lori! I’ve read several of your books and look forward to reading several more. So far, I’ve liked what I’ve seen.
A bad book for me is one who has terrible main characters. I’ve read some books where the hero treats the heroine abominably. Those types tend to disgust me and I can’t see how the heoine was supposed to have fallen in love with the hero. On the other side of the spectrum, heroines who seem pettty or undeserving of the hero are also annoying to read about. Of course, a book with a slow or boring plot is also a turn-off. When I encounter a book with bad main characters then I’ll hesitate to revisit that author. It the local library has some of that author’s books then I will try one or two more to see if that one book was a fluke.
I never write negative reviews. I believe that that author worked hard to produce that book. There are going to be people out there whose tastes are different then mine that will enjoy that author’s work. If I don’t have something nice to say about someone’s work then I’m not going to say anything at all. Therefore, I am always a proponent of writing a positive review.
Edie Ramer on 09 Feb 2009 at 6:53 pm #
I never write a negative review. Life is too short to concentrate on the negative.
Probably the biggest deal breaker in a book is unlikeable characters. No sense of humor, nothing to recommend them. I see that more in heroes than heroines. Not your heroes, though. You write great heroes.
Susan Kelley on 09 Feb 2009 at 7:16 pm #
As someone who loves to read and write futuristics, I can’t wait to read your book. And I love any man named after an archangel. I would never write a review intended to be hurtful or to itimidate a writer to design their story and plot lines to please me. Likewise, I never quite on a favorite author because one book didn’t suit me. I’m sure your faithful feel the same.
Laurie on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:00 pm #
Lori,
I enjoyed Michael very much! As for the readers who feel they weren’t informed, I’ve said it before, and I still think readers are partly responsible for knowing what they’re buying, just as publishers are responsible for clearly disclosing the details about the books they’re putting out. You’re not the first nor the only author to take a detour in her writing style these days and we as readers should realize the possibility that our auto buy authors may veer off in a different direction. It’s happening all over the place right now!
As for negative reviews – I won’t write them. It’s just not my nature to be negative or nasty. If I dislike something, I tend to keep it to myself.
I sure missed seeing you gals on Saturday!
Judy on 09 Feb 2009 at 8:58 pm #
Hey Lori!! I’m a fan, but I’ll freely admit I haven’t caught up to your new series (I’ve only read up to Simon). But I do love you writing!
Let’s see…pet peeve about a book? A dumb heroine who is too “innocent,” I don’t mind kooky, I just don’t like stupidity. But on the other hand I don’t like overly hardheaded ones either. I mean there’s stubborn and then there’s STUBBORN. I can’t deal with them in real life, I can’t deal with them in my books. I’m also one not to like forced coupling…but I’ve read some that were ok, I guess I can stand it when the heroine is into it, but the near rape ones are not to my cup of tea.
I don’t write negative reviews, but I have let the authors know that I didn’t like it (in the most polite and nicest way possible I promise!!!!) And I don’t mean it in a negative way, I just explain why I didn’t like it, or if I wasn’t feeling it. I’ve only done it once, and because it really didn’t make me feel better (not because I was mean, but really there’s no point, you like what you like and the author can’t always write what you like) so I just let it go and read the next book and see if I like it.
Judy on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:04 pm #
Cont.
I do get passionate, but isn’t that what a book is supposed to make you feel? I think the author isn’t doing his/her job if the book he/she has written leaves you feeling emotionless. I’ve read books that’ve made me cry in anger, laughter and sadness. The books that I stop reading are the ones that make me feel nothing in chapter 5. Or I feel like the balance between the heroine and hero are one-sided (for example the hero is not as loving as I feel a hero ought to be).
Mmm…I think I’ve written too much, but this was such an interesting topic. Lol.
Once again: Welcome Lori!!!
Summer on 09 Feb 2009 at 9:17 pm #
There are not a lot of books that I have hated and really wished I had not spent the time reading the book. Of the few that I have not liked, it would be really hard for me to write a review on. On the other hand, I’m also not likely to go on and on with why I didn’t like just that I didn’t. Not sure if that helps.
Nicole Jordan on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:12 pm #
Lori, thanks bunches for being our first guest goddess during our big 2nd year anniversary celebration week! It was wonderful to have you.
It was also great to see a lot of new faces and cool to read everyone’s opinions. Thanks, y’all, for making this a lovely place to hang out.
Kimmy Lane on 09 Feb 2009 at 11:22 pm #
If I read a book I do not like I just go on to another book. It’s pretty childish to angry at an author just b/c you didn’t like that book. I have read many reviews where some like a book and others dislike it. I have no opinions myself except to say if you do not like a certain book put it down and read another. Sheesh!!!!
Lara Lee on 10 Feb 2009 at 12:43 am #
Hi Lori! If I love an author, I’ll try (and usually like) anything she writes. We do some reviews on our group blog, and we try to write what we do like in a book, as well as what we don’t. If I really don’t like a book, I’ll figure out why. If it’s the author’s writing style or voice, I won’t buy her again. If it’s a particular character or genre, I’ll try another. I don’t threaten or trash an author, but I won’t recommend what I don’t like.
My pet peeves? Buying a reissue thinking it’s a new release, tacky covers and titles (I don’t blame the author for those though), and dishonorable, cruel, unfaithful, too perfect, or TSTL characters. Oh, and a totally unbelievable world or plot. I don’t mean it can’t be out there, but it’s the author’s job to make me believe it.
Interesting blog!
Amber on 10 Feb 2009 at 12:53 am #
Hey Lori!
The one thing that really turns me off when reading a romance, is when the story goes nowhere and when there is little or no sexual interaction with the main characters at all. I always keep waiting for something extrodinary to happen and it never does. Another thing that really gets on my nerves, are when the pages are filled with basically fluff, information that really isn’t vital to the story at all. Also, no real plot, or repeated plotlines its hard to get truly immersed in the story when I have already read the same story before.
Wow, I seem to have more pet peeves than I thought I did. But I think its better that someone else new possible writers knows these types of things before they start writing.
I agree with Judy that the point of the story is to get you to have an reaction. I always get too emotionally invested in the story which is hard for me to put the book down and stop reading. I have laughed, cried and fell in love along with the characters. I believe that if a book is truly good, you can remember the characters and the book as long as you love reading! Its a funny, anytime my mother and I go book shopping she can’t remember which stories we ha
Amber on 10 Feb 2009 at 12:56 am #
Cont.
I agree with Judy that the point of the story is to get you to have an reaction. I always get too emotionally invested in the story which is hard for me to put the book down and stop reading. I have laughed, cried and fell in love along with the characters. I believe that if a book is truly good, you can remember the characters and the book as long as you love reading! Its a funny, anytime my mother and I go book shopping she can’t remember which stories we have read or not, but I most certainly can. LOL! I tell her “No, no we have it. It was about….” and so I always win the argument of which books we will buy.
Anyways, I think that’s enough for now. I just get really passionate about books and reading. I always love becoming invested in a story and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a little bit of romance in our lives…In real life or in fiction.
Lori aka L.L. Foster on 10 Feb 2009 at 6:56 am #
Hey everyone,
I crashed last night at a pathetic 9:30, so I forgot to say g’night to everyone, and to thank the goddesses for having me here today.
Belated THANK YOU to everyone who came to visit, and especially the supreme goddesses who let me gabble about pet peeves and such.
I enjoyed every post and appreciate the insights!
All my best to each of you,
Lori
CrystalGB on 10 Feb 2009 at 7:05 am #
For me, what ruins a book for me is when there is not a HEA. No, I don’t write negative reviews. I don’t get angry either.
Pesky on 10 Feb 2009 at 12:32 pm #
It has to do with how much people invest in an authors writing. The more they love your writing, the more they are going to hate anything that goes against their perceptions of the storyline. Extream Readers are what they should be called. On the plus side, to hate a book that much, they had to LOVE your other books even more. So congratulations on doing such a fantastic job on your writing that you now engender hate, loathing and aversion.
It goes along the lines of the people that don’t get a movie is an interpretation of a book, not the book, and picking it apart for not meeting your internal vision is just gonna give you a headache. (BTW, I’m sooooooooooooooo unhappy with how Hermoine wore her hair in the last Harry Potter movie and for gods sake would Daniel Radcliff grow about 6 inches to meet the book. I mean…the nerve.) 
Good luck on pleasing everyone…ain’t gonna happen. Personaly, I liked Michael’s book.
Alice Faye on 11 Feb 2009 at 9:28 pm #
i average atlest 8 books a week sometimes more. What I hate the most is when new covers come out on old books that I have read. You know when after five paragraphs you know what is going to happen.
If I get a book that dies after the first three chapters I put it down and come back to it later. maybe I read too much that day…or the weather was bad and put me in a bad mood.
One pet peeve I do have is when the first three chapters are describing the house, the grounds, the clothing worn by every one from the gardner to the slut that stole her beau. I know you know writes that do this.
can’t wait for new books coming out in the end of the month! Keep them coming!
Suze on 12 Feb 2009 at 3:38 am #
What ruins a book for me is poor follow through. Interesting premise won’t work if the characters just didn’t live up to the hype. I’m willing to swallow all kinds of inane (insane?) plots if the characters are interesting, but Mary Sues and Gary Stus are just irritation on the level of a hair shirt. Give them flaws to overcome and develop their good stuff but for the love of God please do not make them nauseatingly, annoyingly cloying. Am very cautious about writing negative reviews as am not conversant with writing technicalities; but like art, I know what I like.
Am looking forward for My Man Michael which have not reached our shores. Hope that it gets to my bookstore soon.
Sweet Jane on 14 Feb 2009 at 2:13 pm #
Hi Lori,
it’s nice to see you posting on the Goddess Blogs! Here’re my 2 cents:
Because I’m French, one of my main pet peeves is finding mistakes in whatever word, phrase or sentence in French that Romance authors like to drop in their novels. It’s all the more irritating that it happens all the time. As a matter of fact, I’m not sure I ever read anything supposedly in French that *wasn’t* incorrect in some way or another. It bugs me ’cause I can’t understand why it’s so hard to get one tiny sentence in a whole book OK. Can’t authors get their hands on at least one person who’d know just a little bit of French, who’d tell them in a heartbeat that their guess is wrong and how to make it fine?
But what actually “ruins” a book for me will more likely be a bad/too plain literary style.
At last, if I dislike a book, I’d rather hold my tongue (perhaps I wouldn’t have when I was younger). I’ve no literary degree or publishing experience or anything to back up my theories, you know. I may speak my mind on some readers’ forum, or to some people privately, but not on Amazon or directly to the author.
Katja on 18 Feb 2009 at 7:20 am #
I’m most surprised to read all the posts of people stating “I’ve never written a negative review”.
According to several dictionaries, a review is a “report or essay giving a critical estimate of a work or performance.”
Now I agree, critical does not mean negative.
But critical does most certainly not mean 100% positive or only full of glowing praise or even just not saying anything at all about a work or performance, either.
So how anyone can be proud of never having given a negative review is as beyond me as anyone being proud of only ever having written negative reviews.
The one in my opinion is fandom, the other plain nastiness. None of it is reviewing.
A book review in my opinion consists of fairly reporting the perceived faults and highlights of the book being reviewed. And since faults and highlights are always a personal matter, a review can never be the absolute truth.
But as long as a review includes an explanantion of why the reviewer liked or did not like a book, I think it’s great to have reviews.
And I have bought and enjoyed books which received bad reviews, just as I have not been able to finish books all reviewers raved about.
Areader on 23 Feb 2009 at 12:39 pm #
I like reviews that highlight the faults of a book. When I visit Amazon I tend to read all the reviews lower than 3 stars first because those reviewers tend to give you more information about the book than the 5star this is my most favourite book by my most favourite author in the world type reviews. I have bought books with low reviews and books with high reviews. I don’t trust books that only have high reviews – there is no book that everyone likes – I think someone has been playing the review system on Amazon.