Annoying reviews

[H Dean]

Well, don't let it bring you down. Just take that as one example of how people can get picky. The only way to avoid such things is to quit writing. And that would suck.

[Rabbit1]

Well, don't let it bring you down. Just take that as one example of how people can get picky. The only way to avoid such things is to quit writing. And that would suck.

you are quite right ----write to please yourself ---and I know it is hard but try to ignore the who most of the time have trouble writing a letter --much less a story ---comments ----

golden Rule ---those that can write do ---those that can't usually become critics

[Mad Lews]

I've noticed a few things about the review process. It might just be me but it seems the first review tends to set the tone. It’s as if reviewers read the other reviews before striking out on their own. I should also mention that the most popular story I’ve written is also the lowest rated. A historic spoof (Lien the Fifth (http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/s...?storyid=3873)) which started out nasty and got worse was critiqued as not being erotic enough, based on the first chapter. Perhaps it was a fair sentiment though It was was meant to be vicious and sadistic and not really envisioned as a terribly erotic story. The first reviewer hit it with a 2 and the next two were 5 and 7 then I got some more reasonable critiques.
Still the story has nearly thirty five thousand hits and only ten reviews so you have to figure the bulk of the people reading it aren’t interested in the reviews
Just some rambling thoughts
Mad Lews

[Rabbit1]

I've noticed a few things about the review process. It might just be me but it seems the first review tends to set the tone. It’s as if reviewers read the other reviews before striking out on their own. I should also mention that the most popular story I’ve written is also the lowest rated. A historic spoof (Lien the Fifth (http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/s...?storyid=3873)) which started out nasty and got worse was critiqued as not being erotic enough, based on the first chapter. Perhaps it was a fair sentiment though It was was meant to be vicious and sadistic and not really envisioned as a terribly erotic story. The first reviewer hit it with a 2 and the next two were 5 and 7 then I got some more reasonable critiques.
Still the story has nearly thirty five thousand hits and only ten reviews so you have to figure the bulk of the people reading it aren’t interested in the reviews
Just some rambling thoughts
Mad Lews

you are quite right Mad ----really a small percentage of the readers bother with a review ---I think most do not even look at the reviews ---

I think the number of hits reflect more than the reviews do ---but that is just my opinion ---lol

[H Dean]

I've noticed a few things about the review process. It might just be me but it seems the first review tends to set the tone. It’s as if reviewers read the other reviews before striking out on their own. I should also mention that the most popular story I’ve written is also the lowest rated. A historic spoof (Lien the Fifth (http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/s...?storyid=3873)) which started out nasty and got worse was critiqued as not being erotic enough, based on the first chapter. Perhaps it was a fair sentiment though It was was meant to be vicious and sadistic and not really envisioned as a terribly erotic story. The first reviewer hit it with a 2 and the next two were 5 and 7 then I got some more reasonable critiques.
Still the story has nearly thirty five thousand hits and only ten reviews so you have to figure the bulk of the people reading it aren’t interested in the reviews
Just some rambling thoughts
Mad Lews

I remember that story fairly well. Rather brutal and violent with snide bits of humor slapped across it. I do believe I read it over several weeks, keeping the trash can nearby for those ocassions when I felt a gravity leave my intestinal fortitude behind...it was a good damned story.

You are right, of course...an initial review will often bring about reviews of similar nature. Unfortunately, people don't want to be the first to break stride and would rather offer a half assed review than offer their honesty. Also, offering a "real" review is often too much work. Laziness is high and productivity is low. What can you say.

Do take heart, oh Mad one, in knowing that most of those poor reviews you received - at least the ones I read - appear to have been written by dolts. Anyone who would provide you with a "2" has an axe to grind and is not reviewing honestly or in the spirit of the review process. They may not like your tales but your technical skills are far and above a "2". Take heart, too, in knowing that most (if not all) of your fellow writers hold your skills in high regard.

Hmm, that gives me a notion...we should try a new thread; "Reviewing the Reviewer". In this thread we would bring particularly off reviews to light and all offer comments as to whether or not it is a justified review. Who knows, it might be fun and we might learn something. Or, just blow off steam.

[Mad Lews]

Hmm, that gives me a notion...we should try a new thread; "Reviewing the Reviewer". In this thread we would bring particularly off reviews to light and all offer comments as to whether or not it is a justified review. Who knows, it might be fun and we might learn something. Or, just blow off steam.

A loverly notion Mr. Dean but I've a better Idea (I think). Rather than elevate the idiots or stew in resentment take all that angst and use it for inspiration. A number of my stories are the results of snide comments and snippy critiques (Lien was written for a reviewer who constantly complained that I should be a bit harsher) Others are inspired by reviews that I've given to encourage struggling writers ("Review This Story" being the most obvious case in point).
So, not to be mocking Pollyanna but you can always use the nasty little comments to inspire a more eloquent form of vengeance.
Yours
Truly Mad
Lews

[H Dean]

You are far more civilized than your stories would lead one to believe. I prefer a direct shot to the groin, followed by a rusty rasp raked aross their back several times.

But I am a barbarian.

[Mad Lews]

You are far more civilized than your stories would lead one to believe. I prefer a direct shot to the groin, followed by a rusty rasp raked aross their back several times.

But I am a barbarian.

Which might explain your enormous popularity on this sight
Civil? Moi? and I thought I had a sense of humor.
Mad

[Ashtree]

Well, don't let it bring you down. Just take that as one example of how people can get picky. The only way to avoid such things is to quit writing. And that would suck.

Yea, I know, guess I'm just sulking.

[Mad Lews]

Yea, I know, guess I'm just sulking.

Perhaps it be time to "write on"
not to rehash the sixties or anything
'twould be nice to see something new from thee,
(no pressure)
Mad

[tessa]

Ok, hmm...so I've read through this thread twice now. I will say that I am greatly guilty of reading stories without offering a review after I do so. I've seen comments from authors in this thread ranging from, to paraphrase, 'damn people piss me off telling me about what I write' to 'well, I appreciate a thoughtful review'. Having read stories, and having thoughts on most of them, my queries are chronicled below.

Rabbit wrote "golden Rule ---those that can write do ---those that can't usually become critics", which makes me think that offering a review is a bad, bad thing and that if one does take the time to generate an opinion, one can't put together thoughts in the written story form (which I happen to know "one" can, just hasn't done so here is all). But the furry author also remarked, "you are quite right Mad ----really a small percentage of the readers bother with a review ---I think most do not even look at the reviews", which almost leads me to believe that leaving a few words in the way of a review might not be so distasteful to the author. I also took note of what H Dean had to say. "You are right, of course...an initial review will often bring about reviews of similar nature. Unfortunately, people don't want to be the first to break stride and would rather offer a half assed review than offer their honesty. Also, offering a "real" review is often too much work. Laziness is high and productivity is low." Reading that, I actually do believe that honest, well thought out reviews are welcomed by the author. As I am a bit confused, could someone please comment on which way this train of thought travels?

Mad Lews delivered the following: "Still the story has nearly thirty five thousand hits and only ten reviews so you have to figure the bulk of the people reading it aren’t interested in the reviews...". On the other side of the coin I now toss is Aussiegirl with "I think it all depends on the way the review is written too. I find that if the reviewer adds positives as well as negatives, it softens the review. Writers need to know what they have done well as much as they need to know the areas that need to be improved." I must ponder...are the readers the intended target for the review(er) or is it the author that is in the line of fire? I ask because, in my role of reader-only at the moment, I do not look at the reviews myself. I look for specific content most days. Other days I will look at the brief description of the story, and if it slams up against me the proper way, I'll take a look. So if I do combine readership with reviewer status, how should a reviewer, potential or otherwise, aim that particular set of review words? At the reader or the author? Perhaps both? Anyone with ideas about all that?

And to Ashtree and jamb who were bothered by certain words, maybe you can take solace in the fact that they are just that...words? No real power to them unless you allow it. ~thinks of past criticism and shudders~ Well, for the most part anyway.

All my best-
tessa

[H Dean]

Tessa,

First of all, I do enjoy getting a review, good or bad, so long as it is thoughtful. Frankly, I would much rather have an "8" with a well thought out offering of critisism than a "10" with a "nice story". Don't get me wrong, I like the latter, it just doesn't have the impact the former does.

I would encourage you to offer reviews. It does tend to spur authors onward. Knowing that ones work is appreciated is quite rewarding and tends to make authors work all the more diligently. I think I can speak for most of us when I say that, somewhere in the recesses of our minds, we all strive to write that one tale that will acheive perfect tens.

I think you will notice that there is one consistent beef that we all share; idiotic reviews. Those are the reviews that trash a story based on one mistake or because the story theme was distasteful to the reader. Doing so is simply unfair and clearly against the stated review policy.

But please, feel free to offer reviews. I encourage it. Even if you give me a harsh review. So long as it is honest and based on the quality of the story - not on content or entirely based one or two minor gaffes.

[Mad Lews]

Tessa,
Yup writers as a lot aren't very consistent.
To add to the confusion let me ramble some more.
Reviewers should (hopefully) be readers, sometimes you wonder but I think that's true for the most part.
The reviews are sometimes directed at the author and sometimes at the readers, that depends on the reviewer and how they phrase it, a bit like writing from a point of view.
Authors LUV reviews for the most part, it means someone cared enough to take keyboard to screen and state their thoughts on your efforts.
Of course if the gist of those thoughts is "You SUCK!!" then the charm and worth of the review is somewhat diminished unless it is accompanied by a more detailed explanation or even some constructive suggestions.
The scoring might be of greater interest to potential readers and that may indeed be what makes the writers a bit twitchy about the whole process. Perhaps the two should be separated, a review section for the writers feedback and a scoring section for the audience made up of people who have read the story and need do nothing more than punch a number to register their vote.
Still we have what we have and we muddle through smiling and gripping as the spirit moves us.
Mad & Lews

[tessa]

All righty then...review time it is. The written part delivered mostly for the author side of things and the rating given with a personal opinion slant having other readers in mind...gotcha.

Thank you, H Dean and Mad Lews (or Mad & Lews...a case of split personality or just a mood? ), for clearing that all up for me.

Off to the review boards...

tessa

[H Dean]

Tessa....watch out. Both Mad and Lews bite. Hmm...that an be taken a couple ways.

[tessa]

Tessa....watch out. Both Mad and Lews bite. Hmm...that can be taken a couple ways.

In that case...

~thinks of donning chain maille, but ultimately decides against it~

I don't mind such bites...either way. But thank you ever so much for the warning.

[Mad Lews]

Um Tessa,
Please be aware that Mr. Dean is sometimes prone to vast exaggeration. It's why I sometimes call him Howard. Let me assure you that both Mad and Lews are perfect gentlemen in the most basic meaning of the word. It is true that some find Lews a tad eccentric at times but he's totally harmless. He has never bitten, chewed or masticated any of his domestic partners except when invited to by said victim. Well there was that incident in 98 with Sharon… and then again last fall with Sally, but they were both asking for it in a more or less straightforward kind of round about way.
In any event charges were never pressed so it really never happened in a legal sense.
But I digress, please do feel free to review without worry. Mad doesn't mind and Lews can't read.
I'm sure it's perfectly safe.
Mad Lews

[H Dean]

I'm sure it's perfectly safe.
Mad Lews

This is about the place the scary music kicks in. You know, when everyone should get out of the water.

[J's blu]

well, i dont mind getting out the water, as long as i have a GOOD story to read!!

[tessa]

He has never bitten, chewed or masticated any of his domestic partners except when invited to by said victim. Well there was that incident in 98 with Sharon… and then again last fall with Sally, but they were both asking for it in a more or less straightforward kind of round about way.
In any event charges were never pressed so it really never happened in a legal sense.

Not saying I don't trust your Mad and Lews, but perhaps I should contact Sharon and Sally, just to reassure myself that they are both well and good, all limbs still in the proper places and attached...that sort of thing? Just a thought...

But I digress, please do feel free to review without worry. Mad doesn't mind and Lews can't read.

I know for certain I read a thread in which the reading prowess of Lews was discussed. I just know it!! ~eyes you somewhat suspiciously~ Now I have to search the Forums from top to sideways in order to check your version of the truth! A bugger of a task.

I'm sure it's perfectly safe.

I must agree with H Dean on this. That phrase is used only when horribly disastrous events are distinctly imminent. I will be nowhere near the water when I post a review to your stories. Ok, ok, granted, keeping my dainty toes from splashing about while I do review might also be a good idea seeing as I use the computer to do so, but still, that doesn't negate the need to be wary of the pitfalls of the dreaded "perfectly safe" syndrome.

Please be aware that Mr. Dean is sometimes prone to vast exaggeration. It's why I sometimes call him Howard.

Profound apologies, H Dean, as I did have to giggle a bit on that one. Not so much about your exaggerative skills, but the reference..."the scream heard 'round the world" and such. Oh my! Another fit of humor just thinking of it. But seriously, it will be my ~giggles~ most determined effort ~giggles again~ to make sure I refrain ~almost laughing full on~ from engaging in such ~mentally chants, "I will stop laughing!...I will stop laughing!"~ shameless mockery. ~sighs and wipes away the laffy tears~ Ahem...yes, I will do my best.

And now my Southern guilt has sauntered in to chastise me about the fun-making, so to Mr. Dean (the screamer, not the exaggerator (and I'm not calling H Dean and exaggeration aficionado...that was Mad, or was it Lews?? oh bother! and I can't do another set of parentheses)), bless your heart, sugar pie.

But just to make my own sort of claim to what is and what isn't so. Mad Lews, I have read a few of your stories now. It is definitely not your bites I am concerned about. And H Dean...living wall art. Need I say more?

Continued brilliant writing to you both!

tessa

[H Dean]

well, i dont mind getting out the water, as long as i have a GOOD story to read!!

You just wanna get et!

[H Dean]

I don't know who this "Howard" fellow is, but I am sure he is an upstanding fellow who only states what is obvious to all, without overstating things. Why anyone would state that I am prone to exageration I do not know and I certainly disagree, vehemently. It is a tremendous slight that has been done to me, and I fear I shall be forced to take to my sick bed for the hurt this has caused. Woe is me!

[tessa]

I don't know who this "Howard" fellow is, but I am sure he is an upstanding fellow who only states what is obvious to all, without overstating things. Why anyone would state that I am prone to exageration I do not know and I certainly disagree, vehemently. It is a tremendous slight that has been done to me, and I fear I shall be forced to take to my sick bed for the hurt this has caused. Woe is me!

~adorns self in nurse's costume~ Basically, this is all I can really do, as I'm kinda squeamish around sick bed people.

~looks around~ And I see no exaggeration anywhere at all. Not a lick of it.

Feel better yet? I sure hope so as this costume is a might constricting in a few places and I am close to laughing again.

[Mad Lews]

~adorns self in nurse's costume~ Basically, this is all I can really do, as I'm kinda squeamish around sick bed people.

~looks around~ And I see no exaggeration anywhere at all. Not a lick of it.

Feel better yet? I sure hope so as this costume is a might constricting in a few places and I am close to laughing again.

"Is that a thermometer in your hand or do you just like to poke a man when he's down?"
My sincere wishes for Mr. Dean's (can I call you James? No, I thought not.)
speedy recovery.
Mad Lews

[J's blu]

poor poor Dean Sir, having to deal with these totally scurrilous accusations of His ability to embellish and enhance His descriptions of troo happenings.

but what i need to know is, can i still get et?
hoping ofr Your speedy recovery!!

blu

[H Dean]

I believe that I am being mocked. There shall be no mockery on my watch! Back, ye scurrilous louts, Back, I say, lest I smite you with my wit and abrasive kitchen cleaner!

[Mad Lews]

All righty then...review time it is. The written part delivered mostly for the author side of things and the rating given with a personal opinion slant having other readers in mind...gotcha.

Thank you, H Dean and Mad Lews (or Mad & Lews...a case of split personality or just a mood? ), for clearing that all up for me.

Off to the review boards...

tessa

tessa dear,
See that wasn't all that hard, and if you take a moment to count your fingers and toes you'll see most of them are still there. I'm Surprised you ploughed through Caesar, not to be sexist but I always thought it had a more masculine appeal, shows what I know.
Mad

[Mad Lews]

I believe that I am being mocked. There shall be no mockery on my watch! Back, ye scurrilous louts, Back, I say, lest I smite you with my wit and abrasive kitchen cleaner!

Howard,
The sweet young thing in that tight little nurse uniform (the one holding the corkscrew syringe) claims acute paranoia is an early sign of recovery. Glad to see you're well on your way.
Mad

[tessa]

tessa dear,
See that wasn't all that hard, and if you take a moment to count your fingers and toes you'll see most of them are still there. I'm Surprised you ploughed through Caesar, not to be sexist but I always thought it had a more masculine appeal, shows what I know.
Mad

~counts fingers and toes...wiggles them as well, just to make sure...notices strange markings on my left pinky finger...looks over at you...looks back at my finger...looks back over to you, a very wary look on my face as I tuck my hands in the pocket of my hoodie and sit with my feet tucked under me~ Oh, be sexist, Mr. Mad! It's so the un-pollie-C thing to do these days and I do appreciate the unconventional...which is why I read Ceasar. My admiration of your story was meant in no way to cause you doubt regarding your authority on the preferences of your gendered readers. You still know everything there is to know about that, I feel sure.

As for Ceasar, you had me at "feel free to scream, bitch". And while there were a couple times throughout my focused perusal that gave me pause to consider my decision to undertake such a challenge, my curiosity in finding out if proud Rebecca would ultimately fall apart (which she did, thank you very much) overcame any qualms I may have had. Besides, Cassius is such a delightfully evil thing (what he did to Leona was inspired). I enjoyed him throughout the entire story.

But most of all (selfishly so), it was nice to be the surprise instead of the cliche. So thank you for that as well.

tessa

[tessa]

~holds syringe in one hand and thermometer in the other...my tight little costume and impossibly high heels making me wiggle about a bit~ I do hope you are feeling better, Mr. Dean, because honest to goodness, I don't know the first thing about using either one of these. They could prove highly dangerous in my very uncapable hands.

~thinks I may have just provided a story idea with that~

I believe that I am being mocked. There shall be no mockery on my watch! Back, ye scurrilous louts, Back, I say, lest I smite you with my wit and abrasive kitchen cleaner!

And I wouldn't dare mock you! That would make me a lout and rude at the same time. I don't do those together as a general rule. Although I might give it a try if there's a possibility of having your wit smite me around some.

tessa