I read. Shocking, isn't it?
Lately, I've had some problems with Amazon deleting my reviews. I contacted them and pointed out that as a writer I also know how to read, and I consider myself entitled to an opinion. They wrote back and said they're removing all reviews where the reviewer might have a financial stake in the object reviewed. Sure I have a great financial stake in liking the books of author's I haven't even talked to online, even less know in real life. *cough*
I could see their point if I wrote horrible reviews of competitors books, but that's not how I roll. Seriously, my mother taught me "If you can't say something good it's better to say nothing at all." Even if I don't like something other people might, and I try to always find something positive to say. If I don't like anything about a book I'd rather keep my mouth shut, and I generally don't write reviews giving less than three stars.
When it comes to products that fall apart within two minutes of delivery I can be a little harsher, but not when it's about books. Someone poured a little part of themselves into writing, and differing tastes is no reason to be rude.
What do you think? Agree? Disagree?
I could see their point if I wrote horrible reviews of competitors books, but that's not how I roll. Seriously, my mother taught me "If you can't say something good it's better to say nothing at all." Even if I don't like something other people might, and I try to always find something positive to say. If I don't like anything about a book I'd rather keep my mouth shut, and I generally don't write reviews giving less than three stars.
When it comes to products that fall apart within two minutes of delivery I can be a little harsher, but not when it's about books. Someone poured a little part of themselves into writing, and differing tastes is no reason to be rude.
What do you think? Agree? Disagree?
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message 1:
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Dawn
(new)
Feb 09, 2013 11:21AM
I think that there should be a system of reporting--hey, this author wrote a bad review for my book and I notice he's written one-star reviews for eight other books in eight different genres. Then they could investigate and shut that person down if it looks like they're abusing the system. But that would require thought and man-hours, which a moneymaker like Amazon wouldn't want to invest in.
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Thank you for coming over, and for agreeing with me, LOL! Not being allowed to have an opinion drives me nuts.
Why would an author have a pattern of leaving bad reviews? What advantage is it to them?
I think some people believe that if they make sure competitors have bad reviews and they have good reviews themselves, they'll sell more books.
I am very dissapointed in Amazon. I completely agree with Linda, Amazon very much has their own agenda. Why have a review section if you aren't willing to let ANYONE use it. I thought this was the point. I've read your reviews and they are very diplomatic, they are ignorant to delete them because they can only help the author's your posting them for, either by way of advertising or educating. Thumbs down Amazon too bad you are still such a good selling tool. :/
