The Value of a Negative Review

Lindsey Rietzsch

If you haven't yet experienced the stab to the gut feeling of reading that first negative review of your first beloved masterpiece - well, don't hold your breath...sooner or later you will.

It's funny how more than often it doesn't matter that you may have received ten or more wonderful reviews from your loyal readers - when that blow to your heart & soul strikes all those other excellent reviews seem to go right out the window. Strange how that happens.

Well, here's a valuable lesson I learned from taking a negative review and turning it into something good. Yes, you read right - turning something negative into something positive. It can be done!

I remember getting my first negative review on my most recent book, and being frustrated that the reader gave me a bad review because the characters in my book were of a non-denominational Christian upbringing and this particular reader was an atheist. I didn't think that was fair for her to give my story a bad review because she didn't agree with the beliefs of the characters.

After a few days of letting off steam and receiving a few more similar reviews, I finally realized the value of this harsh review. My book was categorized under "paranormal" as it is very much a suspenseful, paranormal book. However as much as it mentions demons and dark apparitions, it also mentions angels, light and miracles. I realized that most paranormal readers prefer dark stories without the happy feel good endings. My book needed to reach readers who prefer happy feel good endings where good triumphs over evil. I needed to re-categorize my book under  Christian Paranormal.

Yes, my friends - that made all the difference. I realized that these other readers were angry. As much as they wanted a good ghost story they didn't want to hear any mentioning of Christian influences. They just wanted the ghost story. As soon as I changed my category I found the right readers and it was a match made in heaven. The good reviews began to pour in. My new readers became big fans and had nothing but great things to say about my book!

Had I just been angry about those bad reviews and left it at that, I would have continued receiving more bad reviews. Instead I chose to listen to what the reviewers were saying  - I was targeting the wrong readers. After becoming proactive I saved the repuation of my book.

You see, all reviews especially the bad ones, tell us valuable information about our book. They give us clues as to what we can do to avoid more bad reviews. Whether it be that we need to have our book better edited or just that we have it placed under a more fitting genre - we should listen to what those readers are telling us.

With that I offer a small caution. There are certain instances when readers are not being respectful or helpful with their reviews. Instead it appears as though they are just plain bullying you and your book. Go ahead and Google "authors bullied on goodreads" and you'll see what I mean. It happens quite often.

I remember with my first book How to Date Your Spouse - one woman gave it a low review because it didn't save her marriage. She said that her husband was unwilling to read the book and try any of the date ideas. She did however state that it was "a great book" and she learned "all kinds of stuff". Now it didn't seem fair after saying it was great, that she would rate it low just because her husband didn't want to read it and try the ideas. Also in the beginning of my book - it states that it's not for couples with serious marital issues. But I have no control over that and as an author I have to respect her rating. I can rest at ease however knowing  that most people who read her review will take it with a grain of salt realizing her circumstance.

I will admit from personal experience that goodreads reviewers are much more harsh than Amazon reviewers. It's not uncommon to have a higher rating on Amazon than on Goodreads in regards to the same book. When this happens you just have to bite the bullet and disregard the comments or it can destroy you if you let it. Bullying behavior can be reported but there is never a guarantee that it will be dealt with by Goodreads or Amazon. For the most part, if the majority of your reviews are wonderful than you really shouldn't let a couple of pointless bashing remarks bother you.

Take the reviews that seem honest and see what you can learn from them - even if you disagree with them. There is great value in doing this.

Happy Writing!

Tackling Your Book Proposal

Lindsey Rietzsch

BreyAnna writes: 

I am getting ready to write a proposal letter for the book that I am currently writing. I was curious if you had any advice for me (since I am new to this). Thanks for your time!

Proposal letters are not as difficult as they may seem. I mean you only have to fit everything you want someone to know about you and your book onto one page - what's so scary about that, right?

Alright, all sarcasm aside here are a few tips that you need to know to make your proposal letter work for you.

Opening: Address your letter to an actual person rather than Dear ABC Publishing. Rarely you won't be able to find a person to address it to, or the submission guidelines ask you to generally address it to their submissions dept. without giving you any names to work with. In that case listing the company's name is just fine. Avoid a general address such as Dear Agent or Dear Publisher.

One Sentence Book Description: Yes, it should not exceed one sentence. It is simply to state how long your book is and what category it falls in. This is the first thing an agent needs to see in order to direct it to the right person or decide if they want t read any further into your letter. 

One Paragraph Book Description: Remember, you have limited space so choose your words wisely. Introduce your main character and be sure to describe your character as someone worth wanting to know more about. What makes them so intriguing or relateable? Set up the story line and then throw in the curve ball - you know the unforeseen challenges facing your character. Then drop the hook - questions that will leave the reader wanting to  more. Will Amy survive camp Wobblecreek? Will John accept his new life or will he go back to Sherry? Be descriptive in your words. Really, this will be the same paragraph you use on the back of your book as well as on your Amazon description. So, use key words that will help people in searching for a book like yours. 

If your book is non-fiction this is where you will state why your book is needed in the market. What makes it different from the rest that are similar and why it will sell well. You want them to know you have done your research.

One Paragraph Bio: Get to the point! Tell the agent why you are credible as an author, expert in your field, or why you will be a great asset when it comes to marketing your book. Mention degrees, professional experience, and any past works you have already published. Because your space is limited, set up a website or blog where you can have a more detailed bio and portfolio. Provide a link here, encouraging the agent to visit it for more information. Also, paste a small photo of yourself in your bio. I've always believed that putting a face with your bio helps personalize the letter. Plus, if it's a professional photo, it can really help your credibility.

Closing: If the publisher or agent has specified in their guidelines what you should send them (the first 10 pages of your manuscript etc.) here is where you will mention that. State what you have attached for their review and then thank them for their time and consideration. Let them know that you are willing to send them anything more upon their request. 

IMPORTANT!! If you have not completed your manuscript you should not be sending this letter out. Should an agent be interested in what you sent, it is very likely that he/she will request your entire manuscript. If you don't have one to send or it's not finished - you will have irritated your agent and ruined your chance. Even if your agent is kind and encourages you to finish it and send it in. By the time you finish it, the agents excitement about your book will have worn down, possibly even replaced more a more exciting proposal and you may have lost your chance for good. Do it right the first time!

Attachment: Be sure to follow the guidelines. Most agents now days do not want to open attachments and will request that you paste everything into an email. Others will want it in a word document or PDF. Be sure you do what they say and if you state that you have attached something, be sure to attach it. 

Once you have completed your proposal you are ready to send it! Be sure to state in your email title Book Proposal: Your Book Title. Know that it can take 4-10 weeks before you hear back from someone. Some, you will not hear back from at all. When an agent declines your book, don't take it personal. Simply reply with a 'thank you' and do not ask why you were declined. Agents don't have time to critique. One in a blue moon a newer agent will freely provide this information. Use it to your benefit. 

Here are two very different examples I have  used for a couple of my books. The first is a fiction proposal and the second is a non-fiction proposal.

Example #1
 

June 12, 2013

Dear Jamie,

The Realm is the first of a 101,700 word contemporary young adult trilogy series based on true events.

Meet Celeste Day, a beautiful college hopeful who may look like your average girl next door - but in her cozy New England town she’s been harboring a lifelong gift and deep secret that is about to be exposed. Being raised in a family where image is everything, her whole world is about to be turned upside down overnight as Celeste decides to take the summer off to "fix herself". When the good looking and mysterious “Ezra” moves to town things only get more complicated as Celeste is confronted by secrets from her past, unexplained phenomenon and dark paranormal forces beyond her control. Saving her reputation and proving her sanity is the least of her worries when she quickly learns she is a part of something much bigger than she could have ever imagined - something that will forever alter her future and change the world…and there is no turning back!

About the Author

Lindsey K. Rietzsch is the author of the highly acclaimed book How to Date Your Spouse (2008) and Successful Failures (2012). She is also the inventor of Hydroheel (a DRTV skin care product) and a motivational speaker on the topics of relationships and self improvement. Lindsey holds a Bachelor of Integrated studies in Communication, Social Work and Family Studies from Weber State University, is a full time mom and a part time blogger/writer. Visit www.lindseyrietzsch.com for a portfolio and complete bio.

 I have included the first ten pages for your review. The prologue is in first person (it's a pivotal event that ties into the book later), however all 24 chapters are written in third person. If you are interested, I would be happy to send you further chapters or the completed manuscript upon your request.

 I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely, 

Lindsey K. Rietzsch  
www.lindseyrietzsch.com

Example #2 (Non-Fiction)

Back in 2007 this is what I was sending to publishers. Here was my opening email statement and then my attached proposal. It was much longer than what I recommend sending today but it landed me a publishing contract. I think this could easily be shortened and if the agent is interested he/she will request your marketing plan. 

Attn: Rodale Inc.                                                                       Date: April 10, 2007

Title: How to Date Your Spouse: A Couple’s Guide to Falling and Staying in Love 

Genre: Relationship-Marriage/ Self Help/ How To

Word Count: 34,139

Dear Rodale Inc, 

I am seeking representation for my relationship book titled How to Date Your Spouse: A Couple’s Guide to Falling and Staying in Love. I was referred to Rodale Inc. by Health Communications Inc. however I have contacted Rodale Books as I was impressed by your mission to inspire and enable people to improve their lives and the world around them. I have written How to Date Your Spouse as a means to inspire and strengthen marriages throughout the world.  I believe that my manuscript would nicely compliment your line of how-to, self-help, and non-fictional inspiration books. Thank you for this opportunity.

Brief Synopsis

In a society where it’s much easier to fall in love than to stay in love, marriages around the world are aching for solutions to this common dilemma. It’s no wonder that couples everywhere claim to have more fun during their dating years than they do their married years! If dating helped convince the two of you to be together, why can’t it help convince you to stay together?

How to Date Your Spouse offers a clever and humorous approach to the subject of falling and staying in love through the fun and creative art of dating!  To help keep that spark alive a marriage should be like a good book; full of fun, adventure, romance, a little mystery and much humor! How to Date Your Spouse will help you incorporate these elements back into your marriage. Prepare to be enlightened on the why’s and how-to’s of integrating “dating” into your marriage. Not only does this book provide motivation and encouragement, it promotes a new lifestyle that can forever change the course of any marriage. You will be surprised to discover what your marriage has been missing!

The purpose of this book is not to focus on the grim statistics of marriages and relationships, but instead to offer hope and excitement as a way to recharge what couples have already created.  This book contains cites from various credible sources as stated in bibliography.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I have attached a proposal which includes an author bio, summary of market competition, marketing approaches, book overview, outline summary, table of contents, sample chapters, and book references for your review. A completed manuscript is available upon your request.

Lindsey K. Rietzsch

Lindsey and Elsha Interviewed on the Book Pound

Check out our first interview for Behind the Scenes Author. It was a fun Q & A session and we hope you find it helpful and inspiring!

http://bookpound.blogspot.de/2013/07/interview-with-lindsey-rietzsch-and.html

Interview with the Founders from Behind the Scenes Author

The Balance of Writing and Being a Mom

Lindsey Rietzsch

I was just asked this question on Thursday by a friend of mine who is writing a book, “How do you juggle being a mom and writing a book? Any good tips?” 

Funny, because I get asked this all the time and thought it would be the perfect topic to start off the week.

Ask any mom with a side business, blog, or hobby – and she’ll tell you that in order to keep your sanity you need to prioritize, organize and makes some sacrifices. It’s very simple but easier said than done!

For me, I set aside specific times for writing so that it doesn’t interfere with my family time. My kids nap and have quiet time from 12:30 to 3:00 every day. That is my time to do business stuff, blog, and write books. All other time throughout the day is reserved for taking care of my family. After the kids go to bed I squeeze in my workout and a little reading – but it’s important that I reserve the evenings to spend time with my husband. 

By sticking to this schedule everyone stays happy and I feel in control. HOWEVER, I must admit I have been guilty of not sticking to the schedule when I get caught up in a great idea. On days like this, I am glued to my computer, my kids are still in their PJs and they are helping themselves to the fridge and pantry – which means a giant mess in the kitchen. Not to mention on days like this my phone seems to ring off the hook and beep with endless text messages. By the time the kids are in bed, I’m too tired to exercise and I feel mentally exhausted which makes for one big headache.

Overall, I think when you’re kids see you constantly on the computer or phone they feel neglected and you end up feeling guilt ridden by the end of the day – I know I do. 

So, here are some quick tips to help you juggle writing with parenthood:

Make a Schedule and Stick to It!

Set aside no more than 2 ½ hours a day to do your writing. I have found that anything more than that is too much anyways and I end up needing a break from my computer screen. If the time is up and you feel you are on fire with your writing and need to keep going – allow yourself an extra 15-20 minutes tops. Quickly type your ideas out so you can get back to them the next day. Then you don’t have to worry about forgetting them.

Do Your Writing When You Have Alone Time

You don’t want your spouse and kids to resent your writing because it’s become your number one priority. When they are in the room, they should be your priority. Besides, it’s hard to write when you have distractions and it’s easy to lose your temper at your kids or spouse when they cause you to lose your train of thought or interrupt your flow. It’s just best to write when you have alone time. If that means turning on a movie, giving them quiet time in their rooms or sending them off on a play date – they won’t mind if it’s a part of the daily schedule. Kids do well with routine and it’s good for everyone to have a break. If you are consistent with your schedule this will work just fine. If you are not, your kids may have a hard time with it. 

Don’t Make Writing Your Only Focus

If you eat, breath and sleep writing it’s easy to let it overtake other areas of your life. I have found that it’s good to turn that part of my brain off during the day and only allow it on during my writing time or when I’m alone such as driving, in the shower, etc. Sometimes I have to force myself to enjoy a good movie , bakes some treats or even paint my toenails – because when I have a good idea for my next chapter all I want to do is write. But by taking time for myself to enjoy other things I tend to be happier which makes for a happier mom and wife.

Make Small Sacrifices

If you have a super busy schedule and it’s hard to find the time to write you may need to make some small sacrifices. Giving up some TV time, cooking quick meals, or getting up early in the morning are all ways to add some extra time for your writing. It may even be that you only have time on the weekends to write – that’s okay. Writing is something that shouldn’t be rushed; a good book takes time.

Summary

It’s very possible to be a mom and an author, you just have to set guidelines for yourself and your family and stick to them. Remember also, that it’s okay to take long breaks. I sometimes will skip an entire week if needs be. If you ever feel guilty – listen to those feelings and don’t ignore them. Take a break and tend to the things that are more important. Don’t sacrifice a clean house and happy kids for the sake of finishing a chapter – it’s just not worth it. Write during designated times and make sure your family is aware and okay with those designated times to avoid conflict. Overall, if you stick to these tips I’m confident you’ll be able to find a nice balance between being a writer and being a mom.

Happy Writing!

Lindsey