July 20th, 2005
I was asked the following question by an interviewer: At what point did you feel you had “made it” as an author? I replied that the closest I’ve come was when Evan sent me flowers. Now I have to say that having a story of mine completely disliked by Mrs. Giggles is right up there.
Now I can’t say I’m not upset, because I’m a sensitive gal, as you all know. 
But it’s better to cut my teeth on a scathing review now, so hopefully I’ll be better prepared for them later. However, I hope (pray, beg) this review doesn’t turn readers off from reading my other works. Only time will tell. In the meantime, here’s the link to the review.
http://www.mrsgiggles.com/books/day_caroline.html
Ouch! :hug: At least she gave you a 60. I’ve seen several books with number 30 or below. I think it’s great that Evan sent you flowers. You’re very fortunate.
by Jordan July 20th, 2005 at 2:45 pmIt’s a bit odd that she gave it the score she did, which suggests she didn’t completely detest it, and yet she said not one kind word about the story. What about the story was enough to elevate it to the numerical score she gave it? She doesn’t say.
by SylviaShe’s fickle. Ignore it. I read something once that she gave a 29 - 29! - and liked it. Couldn’t understand what the heck she was talking about.
Look at this as a rite of passage. This is the same book that was an Amber Quill bestseller, right? Readers matter, not reviewers.
by HelenKay July 20th, 2005 at 3:36 pm:hug: Don’t worry. I’m sure it won’t turn readers off. I always take reviews as just someone’s opinion. They hardly ever prevent me from buying a book if it appeals to me.
by Teresa July 21st, 2005 at 2:59 amIt’s a bit odd that she gave it the score she did, which suggests she didn’t completely detest it, and yet she said not one kind word about the story. What about the story was enough to elevate it to the numerical score she gave it? She doesn’t say.
Mrs. G usually likes books that have well-characterised heroines. To me, she’s saying that she doesn’t have problems with the story itself, but problems she does have with the story lie with the heroine alone.
I think it’s quite a good review, actually, because Mrs. G’s score of 60 is saying that readers who *do* like that type of heroine will definitely go for the book.
by Màili July 21st, 2005 at 8:07 amHi, just got here via Romance Divas. Very nice site, and sorry to read about the bad review. However, having read the review, I’d take it with a grain of salt–I have little patience for people who criticize writing with bad grammar.:wink:
by Suzanna Owens July 21st, 2005 at 6:30 pm