Reciprocity Agreements are Often Inappropriate and Ineffective

A cursory review of almost any literary website will reveal several instances in which an aspiring writer expresses a desire to establish a process through which they agree to like another writer's comment, social page and/or post a rating and review of that author's book in exchange for them agreeing to reciprocate in kind. Reciprocity infers the anticipation that any forthcoming rating and review is expected to be positive and flattering.

If someone is impressed by a writer's comment, social page or book, they will occasionally be inspired to click on the like button to express their opinion. They may even submit a thoughtful review of the book. However, it should be the originator's idea. If the activity is initiated in response to a promise from the author to reciprocate in kind, the sincerity, objectivity and reliability of the activity is understandably questionable.

An evaluation of an author's work or comment should be based solely upon the quality of the content, not a prearranged reciprocal agreement.