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Don’t Do These 4 Things in Your Book Reviews
In the past I’ve shared my best tips for how to write book reviews and what to include. Today I’m giving you my advice on what not to include.
1. Apologize
I see this more so on Instagram, but occasionally on other platforms too. A reviewer will start with, “Sorry, unpopular opinion here…” before giving their thoughts. Usually this is when they don’t like a book that’s wildly popular. I hate seeing it because it implies that reviewer thinks they’re doing something wrong.
There is absolutely no need to apologize for not liking a book. Even if you got it for free, or you know the author, or it’s won a bunch of awards. Not every book is for every reader.
It’s okay to mention that your opinion differs from the majority. I do that all the time. When I dislike a book, I point out why it didn’t work for me and try to think of readers who would like it. It’s rare that I won’t recommend a book, though it does happen. When it does, I’ll say that in my review and I never ever apologize for feeling that way.
