From ‘Page-Turner’ to Pulitzer: A Guide to Ditching Trite Reviews

By Scott Lorenz
Westwind Book Marketing

As a book publicist I’ve read a thousand books and have written a hundred reviews myself. I’ve also written about how authors can get more reviews on my blog. What makes a good book review? You know when you’ve read a terrific review. It’s the kind that makes you want to buy the book.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of using clichéd phrases that, while familiar, can make your review feel less impactful. Phrases like “a real page-turner” or “couldn’t put it down” are often overused and can detract from the unique qualities of the book you’re reviewing. To help you craft more engaging and original reviews, here are some alternatives to common trite phrases.

Trite vs Better: Elevating Your Book Review Language

TriteBetterCouldn’t put it downThe story captivated me from the first pageA real page-turnerThe plot was so engaging, I lost track of timeKept me on the edge of my seatThe suspense was palpable throughoutA must-readThis book offers a unique perspective worth exploringUnputdownableI was completely absorbed in the narrativeA rollercoaster rideThe plot twists and turns kept me guessingGripping from start to finishThe story maintained a high level of tensionA tour de forceAn impressive and powerful piece of writingAn instant classicThis book will stand the test of timeA literary masterpieceA brilliantly crafted work of literatureHeartwarmingThe story touched my heart deeplyA tear-jerkerThe emotional depth brought tears to my eyesA breath of fresh airThis book offers a refreshing take on the genreA riveting readThe narrative was compelling and immersiveA compelling storyThe plot was intricately woven and engagingA real gemA standout book that shines in its genreA delightful readThe book was a joy to read from beginning to endA thought-provoking novelThis book challenges you to think deeplyA beautifully written bookThe prose is elegant and evocativeA captivating taleThe story enchanted me from start to finish

I have to admit, I do like ‘A tour de force’ as it sounds so powerful. I will not promise to ban these trite phrases from my vocabulary because I do like brevity in writing.  Some of these phrases are nice little word packages that tell the reader exactly what they mean quickly.

The Bottom Line: Avoid cliché’s like the plague! Choose descriptive and specific language; you can provide readers with a clearer picture of what makes a book special. This not only enhances the quality of your reviews but also helps potential readers make more informed decisions about what to read next.

Choose descriptive and specific language; you can provide readers with a clearer picture of what makes a book special. #iartg #writingcommunity #writing
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About Book Publicist Scott Lorenz

Book publicist Scott Lorenz is President of Westwind Book Marketing, a public relations and marketing firm that has a special knack for working with authors to help them get all the publicity they deserve and more. Lorenz works with bestselling authors and self-published authors promoting all types of books, whether it’s their first book or their 15th book. He’s handled publicity for books by CEOs, CIA Officers, Navy SEALS, Homemakers, Fitness Gurus, Doctors, Lawyers and Adventurers. His clients have been featured by Good Morning America, FOX & Friends, CNN, ABC News, New York Times, Nightline, TIME, PBS, LA Times, USA Today, Washington Post, Woman’s World, & Howard Stern to name a few.

Learn more about Westwind Book Marketing at https://www.WestwindBookMarketing.com or contact Lorenz at scottlorenz@westwindcos.com or 734-667-2090. Want help titling a book? Check out Scott Lorenz’s new award-winning, bestselling book: Book Title Generator- A Proven System in Naming Your Book www.BookTitleGenerator.net

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