The Writer - fellow writers often say they are looking for honest reviews, but when many receive them, they are often disappointed. They have invested countless hours and tons of creative juice and most novice (and far too many veteran) writers don't react well to criticism, even when it's constructive. So, remember to temper your "honest" review with some professional courtesy. Sure, there are some authors who should never be published, should never attempt to sell the drivel that spills from their printer or pen. But, they are often the ones who won't listen to anyone or anything that criticizes what they deem their greatest work. So, remember that many writers have worked very hard on their writing and not on the thickening of their skin. Find something of redeeming quality and make sure to mention it (preferably last) when pointing out the numerous flaws you've found.
A Point to Remember - a review is an opinion.
That's it. Nothing else. Just one reader's opinion about a specific text at a specific time in their life. Imagine reading Jaws after living in the desert of Arizona all your life. How would the review change if, while on vacation in the Sea of Cortez, the reviewer is almost killed by a shark? We are made up of our experiences and can only give of what we have...ourselves. Reader or Writer, we do our best.
So, take it for what it is - an opinion from one person, at one point in their life, about a book written by another person, at one point in their writing career. People change; but then so do our writing abilities and perceptions.
Just some food for thought.
