So many readers so few reviews

[Mad Lews]

How is it you can have 5,000 people read a story in a month and get maybe one or two to review it? Is the review process really that hard or is it something else. I mean it really is encouraging when someone takes the time to let you know what they felt about your story.

[ProjectEuropa]

How is it you can have 5,000 people read a story in a month and get maybe one or two to review it? Is the review proscess really that hard or is it something else. I mean it really is incouraging when someone takes the time to let you know what they felt about your story.

You are right to complain but I have to admit I am guilty as hell. I have read several stories where I have thought I must write a review and haven't. I've actually finished a story determined to write a review and haven't. I think I will start making a habit of writing a review even if I am critical of the story. I think constructive criticism is worthwhile even if one struggles to find something positive in a person's work.

You have touched my conscience and I will start writing reviews. A review is so so encouraging. It really does make all the effort worthwhile.

Oh and thanks for the review!

[Alex Bragi]

How is it you can have 5,000 people read a story in a month and get maybe one or two to review it? Is the review proscess really that hard or is it something else. I mean it really is incouraging when someone takes the time to let you know what they felt about your story.



Yes, I agree, however, I didn't have to look further than the past two month's top reviewers to find an answer for you - your name isn't on either list.

It's disappointing for sure, particularly for those authors who have received no rating/feedback at all for their efforts. Your stories, I see, all have a least a couple of reviews - good high ratings too - well done!

Many readers are just that - readers not writers. I feel that quite possibly many just simply don't feel comfortable, or qualified, to comment. I agree it's unwarranted but I'm sure I'm right.

[Mad Lews]

I'm sorry I didn't mean to sound like I'm complaining. I really am wondering if it's something to do with the process. I've actually gotten e-mails from people who tried to leave a review and for one reason or another couldn't. Is it the drop down menu selection? I really don't know. And yes I'm a guilty party too. I hereby swear to do at least three a week FNO

[Alex Bragi]

I'm sorry I didn't mean to sound like I'm complaining. I really am wondering if it's something to do with the process. I've actually gotten e-mails from people who tried to leave a review and for one reason or another couldn't. Is it the drop down menu selection? I really don't know. And yes I'm a guilty party too. I hereby swear to do at least three a week FNO

All men whinge and complain, Mad Lews, so why should you be any different. ;)

[Mad Lews]

All men whinge and complain, Mad Lews, so why should you be any different. ;)
I may be few things but diffrent is one of them. Still I've never learned to whinge,If you'll describe it in graphic detail I'll try my best, or not.

[Mad Lews]

A challenge to all would be / not so frequent reviewers

Just be polite, have fun and do your best.
Thanks Ruby
Great suggestions and advice, I'll get right on it. (also a nifty way to procrastinate when the writing muse is on strike)
.

[Spectre]

I'm afraid I tend to avoid reviewing a story if;

a: It is not what I enjoy. If a story has elements I do not care for, I will not review it. I would rate it lower than it might deserve just because it is not my prefered "kink"

b: I tend to follow the "tar baby" rule. "If ya can't say sumpt'n nice. don't say nuttin at all" I have reviewed stories I do like and made comments on stories where I like the theme, but the writing leaves something to be desired, but I tend to avoid leaving negative reviews.

Just my 2¢

[Alex Bragi]

Spectre, you're not alone. I won't review a story I haven't derived at least some enjoyment from either. Why should I?

And, I totally agree there's nothing more frustrating than seeing reviewers give a poor rating simply because the genre wasn't to their liking.

BTW, here's a threads on this very topic. A Question of Standards - JakBird (http://bdsmlibrary.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1743&highlight=feedback) There are others, but this is one has the most responses.

[truckinnhorsin]

i can't make the review thingy work!! least, i couldn't last time i tried. it says i wasnt signed up/ logged in. so i would go log in. and come back.. and it still wouldnt let me. after a few tries, i gave up.


Teni

[Mad Lews]

i can't make the review thingy work!! least, i couldn't last time i tried. it says i wasnt signed up/ logged in. so i would go log in. and come back.. and it still wouldnt let me. after a few tries, i gave up.


Teni

I actually started this thread when I heard that same complaint from a friend. He never did figure out what was wrong. You are a registered user according to your profile so it should work for you. Can you send e-mail to the author? That's the other underlined option available from the story page. I do hope you can figure out the problem.
Good luck...Mad Lews

[Jadetiger]

A challenge to all would be / not so frequent reviewers

Review one story a week. That's 4 a month and with that you could make the top ten reviewers list. One a week - you can do it!

(You'll find it becomes a habt whenever you finish a story and you'll do more if your not thinking about it.)

Your reward - bragging rights, the right to complain that others aren't reviewing, satisfaction knowing that you helped others...whatever motivates you.

Ruby,
This is a wonderful challenge. Authors should receive feedback on their work. So I have accepted the challenge. I am being pretty pity about what I read. I still avoid the hardcore extreme stuff unless I am requested to read it by the author. Stories I have read and reviewed.

Blood and Betrayal: Taking an Amazon by Ruby Bloodstone
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/story.php?storyid=3234

A Pirate's Life for Me by Domination King
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/story.php?storyid=2951

Breakfast with the Doctor by Dr. Wellhung
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/story.php?storyid=3248

JoAnna Smith - Seaman Apprentice by Sailor 861
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/story.php?storyid=3250

P.S.
I found this site when an Internet friend sent me a link to a story on the site. I must admit that the story was extremely hard-core for someone unfamiliar with this life style. I found it upsetting. I couldn't even finish it. While the story excited my friend I found it only angered me. I never read another story but did join the forum.

I can’t remember the name of the story but it involved a girl who was sent a plane ticket so she could spend 2 weeks with a couple. She is tricked by the sadistic couple and their plan was to turn her into a mindless slave by the end of the 2 weeks with the help of an ex con that they employed. If anyone remembers this story I would love to finish reading it now that I am more comfortable with myself. The character’s name might be Mary.

[Tiger]

A challenge to all would be / not so frequent reviewers

Ruby, I think you did a great job getting the little challenge together here. I included your text in the faq section of this site and I hope you won't mind that:
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/faq.html#8

If anyone have any suggestion about this, feel free to let me know.

Jinn

[emmacd]

Ji Jinn, I am still trying to get the use of all you offer. I am trying to become involved with all the Forums. Whereas I know that is a dom orientated group and I am on the fringe group (crossdressers) I have a lot of experience in the S/M world. I will still put in my two cents to encourage other writers. I do enjoy their stories as well. Emmacd
Ruby, I think you did a great job getting the little challenge together here. I included your text in the faq section of this site and I hope you won't mind that:
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/faq.html#8

If anyone have any suggestion about this, feel free to let me know.

Jinn

[H Dean]

Jinn, you might want to put the "Do's and Don't's" on the actual review page. Most people are just going to review a story without bothering to read the help sections. Consequently, you will get some reviews that are the exact opposite of what you want.

For example; I recently saw a review where the author got a low rating due to content. It seems that the reader didn't like snuff tales, so he gave it a bad review.

Something similar happened to one of my stories almost immediately afterwards. That is, I got a low rating because my tale went "too far" and because the story was "depraved" - but "the writing was fine". That is an absolutely asinine criteria for a low review rating.

Reviews are nice. But they can be annoying when they aren't constructive or if they are based upon the reader being too stupid to pay attention to story codes.

[banderson]

I agree that it would be nice for authors to have more reviews of their works. That way, they could improve and be encouraged to write more. I'd review more myself except that it takes a certain amount of time to give a good review and I'm a bit lazy in that regard.

Of course, it also doesn't encourage me when my review is attacked...

banderson

[Tiger]

I had put a link on the review page. It will be too long to fit the full text there. I hope people will read it before reviewing. Sometime readers do not realize how their reviews will affect the authors and the authors may also keep other reviewers away by giving some negative remarks. So I believe this is a great idea to let both reviewers and authors understand the need of others. If you think I can improve it in any way, feel free to let me know.

Jinn

[emmacd]

Hi Jinn I know how you feel. I have out up messages on what I should write about. They are ignored and I would be happy if they wrote negative about what I wished towrite. This is quite different from other groups that I have been in. Just hang in and kep on writing. Emmacd :help:
I had put a link on the review page. It will be too long to fit the full text there. I hope people will read it before reviewing. Sometime readers do not realize how their reviews will affect the authors and the authors may also keep other reviewers away by giving some negative remarks. So I believe this is a great idea to let both reviewers and authors understand the need of others. If you think I can improve it in any way, feel free to let me know.

Jinn

[H Dean]

I had put a link on the review page. It will be too long to fit the full text there. I hope people will read it before reviewing. Sometime readers do not realize how their reviews will affect the authors and the authors may also keep other reviewers away by giving some negative remarks. So I believe this is a great idea to let both reviewers and authors understand the need of others. If you think I can improve it in any way, feel free to let me know.

Jinn
Maybe you should put a disclaimer - Don't give a bad review because the fetish or kink was not to your taste! - I have a seen a lot of bad reviews because it didn't fit the reviewers genre. Pardon - I said bad reviews. I meant stupid.

[General_Dom]

Two other trends I have found in reading other's reviews that should be, IMO, Big Don'ts:

1) Harshly judging a first chapter because it doesn't have enough of the "good stuff" (whatever you're into) - As a writer, I always try to start a story with a bang. I know that's important. But, let's try to cut the newer writers a break in this department. Effectively achieving balance between plot and character development is difficult to master. I don't know if slamming newbies with 1 and 2 star reviews is the way to get the message across. I am surprised many victims of this haven't just given up (and some have, unfortunately... look at all the one chapter stories out there). Lastly, if you feel your preliminary judgement is warrented, at least do the author the courtesy of re-reviewing the story once more content is added.

2) Laying down arbitrary rules like "a story should be 'x' pages long." Says who? Hey, the size is posted on every story link here. If it's beyond your attention span or interest level, then don't read it. Sorry for flaring, I was just thinking of a certain reviewer (who shall remain nameless).

[Mad Lews]

Two other trends I have found in reading other's reviews that should be, IMO, Big Don'ts:

1) Harshly judging a first chapter because it doesn't have enough of the "good stuff" (whatever you're into) - As a writer, I always try to start a story with a bang. I know that's important. But, let's try to cut the newer writers a break in this department. Effectively achieving balance between plot and character development is difficult to master. I don't know if slamming newbies with 1 and 2 star reviews is the way to get the message across. I am surprised many victims of this haven't just given up (and some have, unfortunately... look at all the one chapter stories out there). Lastly, if you feel your preliminary judgement is warrented, at least do the author the courtesy of re-reviewing the story once more content is added.

2) Laying down arbitrary rules like "a story should be 'x' pages long." Says who? Hey, the size is posted on every story link here. If it's beyond your attention span or interest level, then don't read it. Sorry for flaring, I was just thinking of a certain reviewer (who shall remain nameless).
Write on General_Dom!
Don't mind me I'm still smarting from my first review under 7, a 2 no less. Now don't get me wrong the story might suck but the reason given was she didn't find anything erotic about it. So I check out the other reviews she's done. They vary between 2 and 5 for every story except 1 author who gets straight tens. Comments are all pretty much the same " It didn't turn me on". I mean you can tell people the rating scale isn't an arouse-o-meter but you can't make them listen. The same reviewer mentioned that the story should grip her from page one and be no more than 25-30 pages. I thought of asking for a word count because I don't know the font size she uses and I'd hate to leave her dangeling with a 35 page story, but I figured I'd said enough.
Vent closed! Hatches secured, I'll plunge on now.
Mad Lews

[H Dean]

Bad pun, I know. I would apologize but I enjoy bad jokes.

Regarding the low review you received: I have fallen victim to her reviews, as well, Mad. In reviewing her reviews I stumbled across your comments regarding her review of your own tale. Apparently this did not sit well with her as, about an hour later, she had reviewed two new tales and gave them glowing reviews. Call me paranoid but something doesn't smell right with that one.

As for her other comments regarding the length of stories, etc...well, those have to be the stupidest comments I have ever read.

[pejanon]

I will not even bother to comment blatant missuses of review option. Those thing just happen.
(Like - story gets three A+++ reviews 15 minutes after being posted.) I will also not bother to comment on things like: length (and breath) of story being relevant (really?) or content or font type...
However arouse-o-meter IS relevant but - it's nice when you see "This isn't hot BECAUSE..."


No I did not have any problem posting/pasting a review. Actually I registered because I wanted to rate a story, found out I had to write something - so I did.

No I do not understand bad reviews here. I mean - you are reading a story, you don't like it - you drop it, read something else ... what's a big deal? Read it all the way so you can kick it around? Bah.

Oh... you mean you DON'T read it all but STILL write a review? What a NOVEL idea - perhaps I should test it out on Mad's latest extravaganza? NO? :p

Generally if I don't write a review on something at once - it's gone. Too bad. I think it happens all the time. And people just want to read the stuff - not bother writing something about it. :dunno:

Perhaps some incentive for reviewers. Like the best review (NOT most prolific) get a trip to Bangkok with guided tour of ahem sights. The worst - same thing but on South Pole.

All kidding aside, why not a contest of sorts? I've seen a lot of story contests - but a review contest? Hmmm silly?

P

[Mad Lews]

Perhaps some incentive for reviewers. Like the best review (NOT most prolific) get a trip to Bangkok with guided tour of ahem sights. The worst - same thing but on South Pole.

All kidding aside, why not a contest of sorts? I've seen a lot of story contests - but a review contest? Hmmm silly?

P

Pej,
You are a sicker man than I....
and I like that in a person.
Still I think maybe I should stick to sappy romance BDSM storys, it seems to be what the public wants ;) .

Mad

[pejanon]

Pej,
You are a sicker man than I....
and I like that in a person.
Still I think maybe I should stick to sappy romance BDSM storys, it seems to be what the public wants ;) .

Mad

Wow cumming from the certified madman this is high praise indeed.

Sappy? naw
romance? why not - THAT is not the point!
however more detals on ehem action pieces will be appreciated - and bring you higher ratings (if that pleases you) - just check those well meant reviews you get from time to time.

And nno ofcourse wedon't need heat from the world go ... but some OK

so my ide is lunatic raving?

fellow madman :D

[bee]

Many readers are just that - readers not writers. I feel that quite possibly many just simply don't feel comfortable, or qualified, to comment. I agree it's unwarranted but I'm sure I'm right.

This is very true for me, because english is not my mothertongue, I feel I'm not qualified to comment on the (many) stories I read.

[Dododecapod]

Even if you don't want to make a big, formal review (I tend to write screeds, but I have some formal reviewing training) you can always say "I liked x aspect" or "I didn't like x aspect". At least the writer then knows you read it and cared enough to acknowledge his work.

[TheChairman]

Even if you don't want to make a big, formal review (I tend to write screeds, but I have some formal reviewing training) you can always say "I liked x aspect" or "I didn't like x aspect". At least the writer then knows you read it and cared enough to acknowledge his work.

We as authors also have a responsibilty to reply to our reviews and fan-mails. I know I have written private notes to more than one author and never heard jack back. That tends to discourage me as a reviewer/fan-mailer.

And to echo what others have said: I don't read most of the stories posted here, and don't review most that I do read. I generally only review tales that turn me on. It is not easy to disambiguate my dislike of a story for reasons of content from my dislike of a story because it is poorly written, so I generally don't bother. But that's just me.

[General_Dom]

Ah, yes! We are talking about the same reviewer, and I believe it was their review to your story that set me off.

Keep writing your epics..... they're very cool and in need on this site....

GD

[Mad Lews]

Ah, yes! We are talking about the same reviewer, and I believe it was their review to your story that set me off.

Keep writing your epics..... they're very cool and in need on this site....

GD

Chapter 3 of said epic just got posted though it's not mentioned on the front page. ( another temporary glitch I think) delves into the lighter side of Dolcett. Now I'll have to write an ending to this epic....:rolleyes:

Thanks for the encouraging words GD:D
Mad Lews

[MrsBambi]

I get so excited when I find a story that is 'on topic' for me... then I wait and download it and when I open it, CRAP!
The author cannot spell (witch for which) run-on sentences, poor grammar... Who edits these? ..and in defence of some authors... There are great stories out there... but the slap dash writing of many, leaves this reader bummed.
PLEASE learn to use spell check.... and Proofread, proofread, proofread!

[Mad Lews]

I get so excited when I find a story that is 'on topic' for me... then I wait and download it and when I open it, CRAP!
The author cannot spell (witch for which) run-on sentences, poor grammar... Who edits these? ..and in defence of some authors... There are great stories out there... but the slap dash writing of many, leaves this reader bummed.
PLEASE learn to use spell check.... and Proofread, proofread, proofread!

Hi Mrs. Bambi,
I've got to add my 2 cents worth. The writers are working for less than peanuts, some though not all are ESL writers, they're usually pretty easy to pick out. English spelling varies from country to country (try telling an Aussie the proper spelling of tyre). Any third party editing is strictly voluntary (are you available my dear?) and in any event a lot of readers are more interested in arousal quotient than the niceties of grammar and punctuation. Given all that take the stories for what they're worth not for what they cost you.;)
Just a thought,:D
Mad Lews

[Spectre]

There are several stories on this site that match my interest, but are either unreadable or difficult to follow. Nothing breaks my mood faster than having to pause and try to decipher what the word should be or what the author is trying to say. I have gone to the effort of copying the text into WORD so I can run a spellcheck on it to make an otherwise enjoyable story readable.

While I understand that English may not be an authors first language or spelling may be difficult for various reasons, most text editors have a spellcheck if not grammar check. I use them because I find myself reading something I wrote and knowing what I wanted to say, then having spellcheck catch items I missed.

I have seen others offer (and I would be willing) to proofread stories for authors. It may take time and effort, but if you are willing to take the time to write a story for others to read, why not spend a little time to polish it up?

Just my 2¢.

[Spectre]

Sorry. Double post

[csr]

There are several stories on this site that match my interest, but are either unreadable or difficult to follow. Nothing breaks my mood faster than having to pause and try to decipher what the word should be or what the author is trying to say. I have gone to the effort of copying the text into WORD so I can run a spellcheck on it to make an otherwise enjoyable story readable.

While I understand that English may not be an authors first language or spelling may be difficult for various reasons, most text editors have a spellcheck if not grammar check. I use them because I find myself reading something I wrote and knowing what I wanted to say, then having spellcheck catch items I missed.

I have seen others offer (and I would be willing) to proofread stories for authors. It may take time and effort, but if you are willing to take the time to write a story for others to read, why not spend a little time to polish it up?


I just have to echo this statement. I don't understand how so many stories exist on the site with major flaws in the spilling end thuh grimmer. All these authors would have to do is post a request on the forum for a proof-reader and they would be guaranteed willing volunteers.

I have seen stories with great potential have their meanings completely obliterated by the language. I've actually emailed authors and begged them to let me proof-read their next story, but got no answer. It's as if people just don't care.

The other one that really gets me--lack of paragraph breaks. I won't review a story that consists of one long paragraph simply because I won't read it.

[learningtopleez]

I don't understand how so many stories exist on the site with major flaws in the spilling end thuh grimmer.


Lmao! I don't know if you meant to make your point so well or not! But I am loving it! :D

[Aliquis]

Hi all!

Maybe thisisn't the appropriate place to complain but I have more than 1300 readers on my story's page but only ONE vote and zero reviews.
Perhaps you people here can say me something about my story. This is my first one and I had a lot work in it.

http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/stories/story.php?storyid=3967

Sorry if I was out of topic.


Aliquis

[Alex Bragi]

Do you review?

[buttins]

There is a place i know of that does reviews.... They seem to be sticking with pretty much one source for their stories, but I did see one or two from here... Maybe if they heard from you, they would start doing more stories from here. Anyway, the link is: http://indianpilot.tripod.com

Hope it is of some help.

buttins

[sgte5]

I was disapointed to see this story updates cease. It was well done with lots of detail and imagination. I love "slave island" type stories. Will we be seeing more of it?

[lex ludite]

With apologies to Eli Wallich, but I could not resist. Speaking as one who started out in the BDSM as a reviewer, and graduated into being a scribbler in self defense, I think I'm well qualified to speak on this subject. I've written over 500 reviews and have 33 stories listed on this site. After more than 3 years giving and taking all sorts of comments, some good, some bad, some purporting to be reviews, others just the ravings of someone who belongs in a home with rubber rooms, I've concluded that reviews are sort of like a vestigial organ, they contribute very little. What I'm trying to politely say is that reviews aren't worth the powder to blow them to hell!

Reviewers fall into various classes. Some are friends and fans of the writer.
Have you ever wondered how a story that should take one at least half a day to read can have five glowing and very similar reviews within one or two hours of its posting? Others are what I call quick hitters; their reviews are terse and communicate little about why they either love or hate the story. The next class is my favorite,the ones with an axe to grind and guess who they want to decapitate? Most reviewers seem to be content driven, and will sacrifice editing, grammar, lack of plot, cookie cutter characters and the like as long as they get their buzz satisfied. Some are honest about it,but most aren't.

After a time, when I reviewed a story I tried to be constructive, once I figured out that most authors ignored whatever I said and continued on their merry way regardless. It did not take long to discover that most authors were only interested in hearing praise, and woe to anyone who dared suggest that anything they wrote was less than perfection personified.

What finally got me into scribbling was the shibboleth that most of the hacks, not writers, would hurl at me. Since I was not one of those exalted class of beings known as a WRITER, how dare I have the nerve to criticize their deathless prose? Then to make it even more entertaining I started reviewing under my new author name. It took some time for me to realize that in most cases my reviews were still ignored by a large segment of the printers, hacks, finger painters, scribblers and writers.

As a scribbler I make it a point to always respond to any review that I receive. That is just good manners! I note that most of my peers and betters evidently choose not to acknowledge any comments from those deemed unworthy.

About six months ago I took a hard look at all the reviews my stuff had received and then compared it to the number of hits each story received. The results were rather astonishing. There was little correlation between the two! In fact, what really counts is the hits!

So to those authors in waiting who expect someone to drop whatever they are doing and write a detailed review of your first offering, don't hold your breath! I tried emphasizing first story reviews for a few months and found the new authors just as impolite as the established hacks.

All is not lost if you are a budding author. Here are some simple rules to increase your readership without too much exertion. As Parker once put it so bluntly. "Write what you want to write!" Have those words tattooed across your forehead, perverted of course, so every time you look at yourself in the mirror you can be reminded. Learn to write simple declarative sentences. Learn to walk, you can do your running once you get the hang of staying on your feet. Make damn sure that your story is free of typos, misspellings, poor grammar and the like. If need be, go to the library and take out a book on the subject of grammar so you will at least know what the average educated reader is looking for when he or she tries to wade through your epic. Try your best to have something novel or unique in your story. This way you may be able to separate yourself from the hordes of scribes, which is what I call those who merely copy someone else's plot, characters and the like. Don't submit chapter 1 of your story unless you already have a first draft of chapter 2! This site is littered with many very good first chapters that never amounted to a hill of beans because their vision had no depth.

I hope those of you who are just getting started in this exciting avocation will take what I said to heart. Pay attention to how many people are at least taking a look at your stuff, and act accordingly. Realize that we have a very strange readership in that the great majority are lurkers. A lurker is someone who reads and then goes on his or her merry way, leaving no trace. My educated guess is that over eighty percent of the site's readership are lurkers. They are akin to the dark matter that many scientists posit must exist to make the universe behave in the manner that it does.

[lex ludite]

With apologies to Eli Wallich, but I could not resist. Speaking as one who started out in the BDSM as a reviewer, and graduated into being a scribbler in self defense, I think I'm well qualified to speak on this subject. I've written over 500 reviews and have 33 stories listed on this site. After more than 3 years giving and taking all sorts of comments, some good, some bad, some purporting to be reviews, others just the ravings of someone who belongs in a home with rubber rooms, I've concluded that reviews are sort of like a vestigial organ, they contribute very little. What I'm trying to politely say is that reviews aren't worth the powder to blow them to hell!

Reviewers fall into various classes. Some are friends and fans of the writer.
Have you ever wondered how a story that should take one at least half a day to read can have five glowing and very similar reviews within one or two hours of its posting? Others are what I call quick hitters; their reviews are terse and communicate little about why they either love or hate the story. The next class is my favorite,the ones with an axe to grind and guess who they want to decapitate? Most reviewers seem to be content driven, and will sacrifice editing, grammar, lack of plot, cookie cutter characters and the like as long as they get their buzz satisfied. Some are honest about it,but most aren't.

After a time, when I reviewed a story I tried to be constructive, once I figured out that most authors ignored whatever I said and continued on their merry way regardless. It did not take long to discover that most authors were only interested in hearing praise, and woe to anyone who dared suggest that anything they wrote was less than perfection personified.

What finally got me into scribbling was the shibboleth that most of the hacks, not writers, would hurl at me. Since I was not one of those exalted class of beings known as a WRITER, how dare I have the nerve to criticize their deathless prose? Then to make it even more entertaining I started reviewing under my new author name. It took some time for me to realize that in most cases my reviews were still ignored by a large segment of the printers, hacks, finger painters, scribblers and writers.

As a scribbler I make it a point to always respond to any review that I receive. That is just good manners! I note that most of my peers and betters evidently choose not to acknowledge any comments from those deemed unworthy.

About six months ago I took a hard look at all the reviews my stuff had received and then compared it to the number of hits each story received. The results were rather astonishing. There was little correlation between the two! In fact, what really counts is the hits!

So to those authors in waiting who expect someone to drop whatever they are doing and write a detailed review of your first offering, don't hold your breath! I tried emphasizing first story reviews for a few months and found the new authors just as impolite as the established hacks.

All is not lost if you are a budding author. Here are some simple rules to increase your readership without too much exertion. As Parker once put it so bluntly. "Write what you want to write!" Have those words tattooed across your forehead, perverted of course, so every time you look at yourself in the mirror you can be reminded. Learn to write simple declarative sentences. Learn to walk, you can do your running once you get the hang of staying on your feet. Make damn sure that your story is free of typos, misspellings, poor grammar and the like. If need be, go to the library and take out a book on the subject of grammar so you will at least know what the average educated reader is looking for when he or she tries to wade through your epic. Try your best to have something novel or unique in your story. This way you may be able to separate yourself from the hordes of scribes, which is what I call those who merely copy someone else's plot, characters and the like. Don't submit chapter 1 of your story unless you already have a first draft of chapter 2! This site is littered with many very good first chapters that never amounted to a hill of beans because their vision had no depth.

I hope those of you who are just getting started in this exciting avocation will take what I said to heart. Pay attention to how many people are at least taking a look at your stuff, and act accordingly. Realize that we have a very strange readership in that the great majority are lurkers. A lurker is someone who reads and then goes on his or her merry way, leaving no trace. My educated guess is that over eighty percent of the site's readership are lurkers. They are akin to the dark matter that many scientists posit must exist to make the universe behave in the manner that it does.

[isabeau]

what i find myself doing if i really like a story, is to email the writer instead of reviewing it. most of the times i get an email or two back. and Madlews and i have been corresponding on yahoo. his stories are terrific. a few times i havent received any email back from the author, which i find rather rude. i usually email them via this forum or the bdsm library. does it help the writer to review it rather than emailing them?

isabeau

[lex ludite]

I always enjoyed a private message more than a review. The best one I ever got ran two pages and it was astonishing what that reader had caught onto and how much entertainment had been derived from the little jokes that I usually bury in my stories. Personally I believe authors who ignore everyone should have the favor returned.

[Nikita]

what i find myself doing if i really like a story, is to email the writer instead of reviewing it. most of the times i get an email or two back. and Madlews and i have been corresponding on yahoo. his stories are terrific. a few times i havent received any email back from the author, which i find rather rude. i usually email them via this forum or the bdsm library. does it help the writer to review it rather than emailing them?
isabeau

I speak for myself, isabeau.

If you want to help a writer and don't want to give them a bad review, it is ok to email them.

As a 'writer,' I like feedback. It tells me if I'm on the right track or not. Also, it is a guilty pleasure if the review is good. Either way, I still consider the feedback.

Reviews are acknowledgements of my efforts. So yes, it is important to leave your 'Kilgore was here' comment.

I've received email from people who loved the stories but didn't leave a review. I don't like that particularly, because if it was good, they should say so, in front of everybody.

Looking forward to seeing your name on story reviews.

Nikita

PS. I review A LOT of stories...

[isabeau]

I speak for myself, isabeau.

If you want to help a writer and don't want to give them a bad review, it is ok to email them.

As a 'writer,' I like feedback. It tells me if I'm on the right track or not. Also, it is a guilty pleasure if the review is good. Either way, I still consider the feedback.

Reviews are acknowledgements of my efforts. So yes, it is important to leave your 'Kilgore was here' comment.

I've received email from people who loved the stories but didn't leave a review. I don't like that particularly, because if it was good, they should say so, in front of everybody.

Looking forward to seeing your name on story reviews.

Nikita

PS. I review A LOT of stories...


thank you Nikita i will start reviewing those stories then. i enjoy reading them especially since i am a bdsm virgin, meaning i have never lived this lifestyle, but it soo interests me.

isabeau

[Ranai]

thank you Nikita i will start reviewing those stories then. i enjoy reading them especially since i am a bdsm virgin, meaning i have never lived this lifestyle, but it soo interests me.

isabeau
In addition, it’s not only the author who will read your review. Sometimes I enjoy reading other people’s reviews quite a bit. You get to their review lists by clicking on their name on a review page. If someone else liked what I liked, I tend to browse their lists, looking for recommendations.

I’d like to point again, as posted earlier in this thread, to the Library’s FAQ where you can find the useful suggestions Ruby wrote on ‘How to write a review?’:
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/faq.html#8

And if you post a few you’ll make it to temporary fickle fame on the top reviewers page:
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/topusers.php

I only write reviews of stories I read that interest me in one way or another. If a story is not my cup of tea or if it just makes me stare blankly into space and think ‘Well... maybe someone likes this...?’, I simply move on. Sometimes I also review a story which hasn't got any content that tickles my personal erotic interests, because I simply like the plot, the style, the storytelling.

Anyone who enjoys fiction can review stories. Real life experiences with BDSM may occasionally give a different outlook on some of the content, but the point of a review is really appreciation of well-written fiction. :)

[isabeau]

In addition, it’s not only the author who will read your review. Sometimes I enjoy reading other people’s reviews quite a bit. You get to their review lists by clicking on their name on a review page. If someone else liked what I liked, I tend to browse their lists, looking for recommendations.

I’d like to point again, as posted earlier in this thread, to the Library’s FAQ where you can find the useful suggestions Ruby wrote on ‘How to write a review?’:
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/faq.html#8

And if you post a few you’ll make it to temporary fickle fame on the top reviewers page:
http://www.bdsmlibrary.com/topusers.php

I only write reviews of stories I read that interest me in one way or another. If a story is not my cup of tea or if it just makes me stare blankly into space and think ‘Well... maybe someone likes this...?’, I simply move on. Sometimes I also review a story which hasn't got any content that tickles my personal erotic interests, because I simply like the plot, the style, the storytelling.

Anyone who enjoys fiction can review stories. Real life experiences with BDSM may occasionally give a different outlook on some of the content, but the point of a review is really appreciation of well-written fiction. :)


ahh i so agree with you and thank you for helping me to find out how to place a review. i will only write reviews of stories that i find well written with a plot other than inflicting pain, humiliation or the like. its not that i dont like reading about those, but i find stories with a plot within the main story to be much more my cup of tea. i think of myself as rather a bookworm. meaning i not only read a story or book once, but over and over. i consider myself a pretty good judge of what is well written or not. if i dont like a story i will also just pass it by, i would never ever think of critiquing a story that i dont like or criticize it in any shape or form at least not without some suggestions, and since i havent written anything myself, i dont feel i would be the best judge of that.

isabeau

[Ranai]

You’re welcome. And by all means critique away! Constructive criticism is a good thing. Many people post their stories because they are looking for feedback, on content and on form. Whether any of it is actually taken up or not - that's always Author's Prerogative. ;)

And if you give an author suggestions of things you believe might be improved, it tells him or her that you found the story interesting enough to think about it.

[isabeau]

You’re welcome. And by all means critique away! Constructive criticism is a good thing. Many people post their stories because they are looking for feedback, on content and on form. Whether any of it is actually taken up or not - that's always Author's Prerogative. ;)

And if you give an author suggestions of things you believe might be improved, it tells him or her that you found the story interesting enough to think about it.

thank you again and i also like alice in wonderland.... your quote from the jabberwocky

isabeau

[Ranai]

Ah well, I salute the double post elves.

[Tojo]

I don't think I've ever once written a review of a story, if & only if I like something, I just send the author an email. 'Do unto others' & all that.

Myself, I was blown away by the reviews from my two humble contributions. Not to mention the emails...

More reviews? You've got to be joking! I don't want 500 to read through...

All said & done, most of my stories are written for a particular person, they don't always want to share them with the world. If I can please that person, my work is done.

Sadly I've lost touch with 'Jessie' & feel unable to continue that one, which I feel had the most potential.

Good point about the poor grammar & spelling in many stories- I don't even read posts if they just 'don mak sinse' I cringe at their efforts.

I left school at the age of 15, yet can manage to go back & read what I've written & make changes. We all make mistakes, but some of us fix them afterwards- what else is a WP for?

Thanks so much for all the kind words re my stories, I can feel the inspiration coming back. :ty

Tojo

[Aussiegirl1]

Not sure if this thread is still being followed, but I wanted to add my thoughts on reviews.

I too am amazed at the number of people who read and don't review, but still the number of people I have had reading my stories has thrilled me. I am still just a new writer and I must admit I do take note of what a reviewer says, whether they have liked the story or not. I also try to reply to my reviews, thought I really don't know if the reviewers read my replies. It just seems the polite thing to do.

I have found the reviews in general very positive and they certainly have made a difference in how I write. I sit down now with my idea in my head but also a better notion of what the reader might be looking for, though I know everyone is after something different.

As to writing reviews, since I have begun sending my stories in, I have tried to write more reviews. I really love this site and the freedom it offers to both new and established writers to have your work published but still be allowed your privacy.

Thanks
Aussiegirl1

[Tojo]

Not sure if this thread is still being followed

I think the majority of regular visitors to most forums just hit the 'new posts' button each time they visit. Therefore any new comment comes up, no matter how old the thread is.

I still feel I've had enough reviews of my stories, more than enough really!

The feedback is most inspirational. Thanks to all, especially to my newest fan.

And hi to a fellow Aussie- owayagoingmate?

Tojo

[Aussiegirl1]

g'day to you Tojo,

it is good to see an aussie name, though I imagine there are more of us out there then we might realise.

Aussiegirl1

[Sandcastler]

hi aussiegirl--
I've read and enjoyed several of your stories. but I've never written a review of them because, when I first started coming to the library, I wrote e-mails to quite a few authors whose stories I liked, and none (zero) of them ever responded. so I stopped writing. I think you would do the same if you had the same experience. write on, aussiegirl!
--Sandcastler

[DungeonMaster6]

As someone who has submitted stories, I can say that it is encouraging to know someone thought enough of my story to write a review. If it's a positive review of course I'm delighted, but even if it's negative (and I've received a few), it spurs me on to do better.

[Aussiegirl1]

Sandcastler, I can understand how not getting a reply back from authors when you email them would be disappointing, but do try reviewing a story. It is a much more public way to praise the author of the story you like or offer some hints on how to improve a story. I for one really look forward to seeing what my reviewers say. It is ok to try to email the author too but as you have discovered they may not always respond. I hope you decide to review one of my stories and let me know what you like (or dislike) about it.

I have to agree with DungeonMaster, it does spur you on to write more when someone takes the time to review. I don't write just for reviews, I write first and formost for my own enjoyment, but I do get a buzz each time a new story starts to get reviewed.

[Mad Lews]

You’re welcome. And by all means critique away! Constructive criticism is a good thing. Many people post their stories because they are looking for feedback, on content and on form. Whether any of it is actually taken up or not - that's always Author's Prerogative. ;)

And if you give an author suggestions of things you believe might be improved, it tells him or her that you found the story interesting enough to think about it.

Ranai luv
Yes,Yes I know I owe you a Fem Dom story with a boy toy in chains....:whip:
I'm just cleaning up a backlog of ideas. Perhaps that's my problem of late writing from ideas and not senses. :confused: In any event I'll get to it fairly soon.
Honest
Mad Lews

[H Dean]

hi aussiegirl--
I've read and enjoyed several of your stories. but I've never written a review of them because, when I first started coming to the library, I wrote e-mails to quite a few authors whose stories I liked, and none (zero) of them ever responded. so I stopped writing. I think you would do the same if you had the same experience. write on, aussiegirl!
--Sandcastler
Don't let it bring you down, it's only castles burning...there I go, launching into song.

Seriously, don't let the few non-responses halt your comments to authors. Some of us - me included - enjoy those things and will always respond.

Also, don't forget that some people have spam filters that knock stuff out. Or maybe they don't recognize your e-mail address and delete it.

I can tell you that, there is an author who I wrote to. He did not respond to me. But, when I commented in the review section, he did respond. You noever know what happens between you and them on this vast internet.

So, don't give up. Keep sending those E-Mails. Post comments in the review section. And, I promise, if you ever send me an E-Mail, if I don't respond it was because I didn't get it. Promise.

[Tojo]

Some good points there H D- I deleted an email yesterday for the simple reason it looked a bit suss.

Yeah don't give up Sandcastler- I haven't always gotten a response from emailing someone, but the important part is to do it.

I mean if you say hello to a couple of people in R/L, & they don't respond you wouldn't give up?

I've met some of the nicest people ever online, you're not stuck with any tin pot town full of rednecks here, we go all over.

Hell I had a lovely email back from one of the foremost bondage models once. That was lovely. :)


Tojo

[Mothbrad]

I've just recently had my first story published here, and been excited to see the 'readers' number growing, along with getting a couple of reviews and one polite email. The number of readers is still difficult to get too much satisfaction from, as you can't tell whether a reader has saved the story to their hard drives and pledged to name all of their children after characters in your story :cool: or just read the first paragraph and then closed the window. I've had some great email conversations with authors in the past, and that's probably what I would rate even higher than getting reviews - if readers take the time to start a dialogue.

[Widget]

I think one of the reasons so few people offer the feedback is because they just don't know what to say. Maybe the content is not thier cup of tea so they don't want to say anything at all because they don't know how to seperate the content from the style and quality of the writing.

[Aussiegirl1]

I wonder too if many readers just don't think about reviewing. For a few years I just read the stories and it was not until I submitted by first story that I began to understand the whole review process. It wasn't that it wasn't clearly explained but that I just didn't take any notice of it.

I agree that watching the number of readers rise is fun, though you don't know if they read all the story or not. It is a curious thing, but so long as I get at least a few reviews, to let me know what they liked or didn't like about the story, that is good. That to me is the most important part about reviews, if I can get a feel for what worked or didn't work, I can use it to improve my next story.

[Rabbit1]

Well there is an excellent guide to reviewing a story ---and I kind of feel like we need to show members how to review a story ---I get so many emails asking if a particular author is going to add to a story ---and I answer them by telling them I have no idea---but they might want to review the story to let the author know they would like to see more ----Now I never wrote a story just to get reviews---I write because I like to ---but I will tell you that getting a review does a lot to make you want to continue ---

I am a paid author ---I write book ---not erotic book --novels ---I have 5 published novels---and better than reviews I get a check each month ---that tells me people have enjoyed my stories and makes me want to write more ----I started writing erotic stories---that is where I started ---and reviews made a lot of difference to me ----I started on a story board and continued there until they turned it into a pay site----

yes I still get paid from that site as it pays me by the number of times my stories are downloaded ---I get paid from the new member fees that people pay when they join and the monthly fees they pay to stay members

but I would rather my short erotic stories were free and I post them on boards for free ----I like to help and encourage new authors ----

we have started basic writers classes for new authors in the Writer's Block

now I feel like we ought to train reviewers---I hope each of you will take the time to review a story ---and maybe comment on it in this forum ---