Question for Authors: What do authors like to see in a review about their book?

[Tanya]

Can you help me understand what makes a positive book review from an author's viewpoint? I usually summarize the book and then write a few paragraphs of praise, constructive feedback, and recommendations. My reviews are usually 3-4 paragraphs long, with each component in its own paragraph.

I wrote a detailed review for an exceptional audiobook by a mutual friend, but the author was disappointed and felt disrespected. They wanted me to rewrite it to make it better. Do authors not prefer reviews like that?

I wrote a summary and two paragraphs highlighting the book's best features. In the last paragraph, I gave constructive feedback about some mildly offensive remarks from the author. The author was narrating the audiobook. This didn't impact my five-star rating, and I didn't mean to insult the author.

I'm sorry that this is so long, but would getting a review like that offend authors? I just want to write the best review possible and appreciate any feedback.

[David]

Getting any review is positive! It means someone has chosen to read my book!

Yes, troll reviews are not nice but that's not what we're talking about here. You are willing to write a multi-paragraph review? That's amazing (and relatively rare)! I looked for your reviews but could only find one on 'Entangled Life', and there's nothing wrong with it. Honestly, it made me interested in the book.

No author should be contacting a reviewer regarding an unsolicited review; the review is the reader's opinion. Any review that offers praise and encouragement is the maple syrup on my pancakes!

[Tanya]

David wrote: "Getting any review is positive! It means someone has chosen to read my book!

Yes, troll reviews are not nice but that's not what we're talking about here. You are willing to write a multi-paragrap..."

Thank you, I didn't actually know that you could review books here. "Entangled Life" is interesting but a little dull at times. I usually review books on Amazon, Google Play Books or ARC access sites.

I feel like no matter what I write this person isn't pleased. They say I don't understand the struggles of being a writer. I've reviewed a total of 6 books for this author and they criticize my reviews even more each time. They expected me to write a three-page essay about their 65-page short story. (I'm not joking, they really said "If you really liked the book, you would have written AT LEAST 3 PAGES for the review".)

Do you think that I should refuse to read their next book, they have another one releasing in 2 months.

[David]

David wrote: "Tanya wrote: "Do you think that I should refuse to read their next book, they have another one releasing in 2 months."

Yes. I would have refused the third request. You must be a nice person!

P.S. Scroll around Goodreads (and Amazon) and look at the average length of reviews. It is actually better for a review to be on the short side: it ensures that a potential reader for the book will read the whole review. And yes, the first choice review site for most authors is Amazon.