“A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading.”
William Styron, Conversations with William Styron
I found the above quote on Lu Anne Worley’s excellent book review site—Rockin’ Book Reviews –-which is great fun.
Book reviewing in traditional media has declined so we authors owe a great deal to the bloggers who have stepped up to the plate—and who feel so passionate about books and reading.
Book reviewing is much more difficult than you might think because you have got to convey the essence of a book, and your opinion of it, in a limited space—and in a fresh and entertaining manner every time.
These largely unpaid book review bloggers do an amazing job.
Thank you.
I have been trying to work out whether my books conform to William Styron’s quote (see above).
- Many experiences? Yes—I certainly qualify on that account.
- Leave you slightly exhausted at the end? I write pretty good endings but have never thought in terms of leaving my readers exhausted—more satisfied. But I understand what he means.
- You live several lives while reading. What a marvelous sentence—and so true.
All in all, it’s not for me to say whether my books are great—or not. All I can say is that my readers have been very kind. The following is an example.
WHAT MY READERS THINK
I have just discovered your books through my local library and would just like to compliment you on your storylines and the humanizing of your characters. It is a true joy to sit down with one of your novels after a tough day at the office and immerse myself in a Victor O'Reilly masterpiece. Thank you so much for your courage in writing and the impact you have had on your fan's lives. Best wishes in all you do, Debbie
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