Into The Virtual Arena…..

Last week I received a positive review of my novel “Gothic Spring” and forwarded it to my publisher, expecting to be congratulated. Instead, I received a cautious reply, reminding me that not all reviews will be so glowing. So much depends upon a reviewer’s personal likes and dislikes. The remark I suppose, was intended as a kindly reminder because today marks the beginning of two weeks of virtual tours for “Gothic Spring.” Some criticism is inevitable.

(courtesy: www.murphsplace.com)

Dissent makes a review credible, I’m told. Too many glowing comments cast a suspicion that my mother or my best friend is writing them. One cannot be universally loved, after all. Even I’ve been known to take a poke at a national best seller; so it would be folly to expect my work will escape negative comment. When it happens I’ll sigh and give weak thanks for “authenticity.” But in my heart, I won’t feel thankful at all. I’ll read the review with narrowed eyes and wonder how anyone could write such drivel. It’s only human and a little bit necessary if I’m to keep my spirits up for the next novel.

How ironic that one actually gains credibility through detractors. I only hope I’ll have the wisdom to accept this truth. That said, let the game of virtual tours begin.

Here is the link to the first review: http://www.junipergrove.net/