Book Reviews: If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.

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Book Reviews:

If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.

I’ll never be hired to write professional book reviews. I only review books I enjoy. My mantra is this: If I can’t say anything nice, I won’t say anything at all.

Most published authors crave book reviews, not just for their ego, but because they believe that more book reviews will lead to more sales. Amazon.com is always advising authors to get more book reviews. Amazon understands that more positive book reviews will help them sell more books.

Often, readers who have enjoyed a book may consider writing a review, but they don’t because they don’t know where to start. They might also believe that it’s too much trouble. Actually, a book review can be very short and simple, or it can be lengthy and elaborate.

Today I’m going to give a few tips on writing book reviews, but my main reason for addressing this topic is to share a few book reviews that I’ve written. I’m hoping that my blog post readers and podcast listeners will check out these books by Jared Vaughn, Karis Ens, and Melody J. Cole.

When writing a book review, you aren’t writing a summary of the book. You’re just sharing a few personal thoughts about your read. If you liked the read, tell what you liked, but don’t reveal any plot twists or surprises.

Some platforms ask you to title your book review, so be prepared for that. Amazon.com doesn’t allow you to promote your own books but Goodreads accepts reviews with your book title after your name.

I’ve found that the biggest challenge in writing an Amazon book review is not writing it. It’s finding where to write it. The first step is to locate the book for sale on Amazon by either searching for the author or the title of the book. Once you find the image, look for stars directly below the author’s name. For example, if beside the stars you see the number 14, that means its been rated 14. Click on the number 14.

You will see this message: “Customer Reviews. Review this product. Share your thoughts with other customers.” Click where it says “Write a customer review.” The next screen will allow you to title your review and write your review.

Often times people believe they aren’t allowed to write an Amazon book review if they didn’t purchase the book from Amazon. That’s incorrect. As long as you’re a customer who has spent about $50, Amazon accepts your review.

The Longest Time by Jared Vaughn

The Longest Time by Jared Vaughn is a delightful book by an incredibly talented Kansas author.

The novel reminds me of my childhood when anything was possible, that is, before reality and gravity held me back, and the word “possible” became “unlikely,” and then “impossible” due to my age and time.

Since reading this fantastic adventure about friendship and love, I’ve regained a bounce in my step and a twinkle in my eye.

Obviously, I highly recommend this book. Warning: Reading this book may cause temporary loss of sleep, hallucinatory vision, and a resetting of your clock.

–Jim Potter, author of Taking Back the Bullet: Trajectories of Self-Discovery

Sentiments of a Survivor by Melody J. Cole

If you or a loved one has cancer and you want to learn about one person’s experience with the brutal disease, this book is for you. If you don’t have cancer, this uplifting, survivor-memoir is still for you. Excellent writing! — Jim Potter

A Girl and Her Cat by Karis Ens

A Girl and Her Cat is a delightful children’s book that shows the love between a little girl and her kitten, Pepper.

Author and illustrator Karis Ens’ personal story of her beloved feline is enhanced by simplified line drawings that reinforce the narrative.

This book separates itself from the stereotypical children’s book. The illustrations by Ens don’t dominate the written word. As a result, Ens allows readers of all ages to enjoy the development of an extensive literary story about the loving relationship between a little girl and her four-legged companion.

I highly recommend A Girl and Her Hat to all people who have ever had a pet who was a best friend.

–Jim Potter, author of K-9 Kudzu: Observations of a Working Dog Who Loves to Play

All three of these reviewed books may be purchased at timehonoredproductions.com, at any reputable bookstore near you, or at amazon.com. See www.timehonoredproductions.com

Breaking News! Karis Ens has recently released the second book in her series. I’m reading it now. It’s titled A Girl and Her Cat Together. If you purchase her book, you can write your own book review.

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Until next time, happy writing,

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