Into the Fire

Those of you who visit here regularly know I have many opinions. About a lot of things. Most of the time I’m civil. I try to specify when I’m posting a rant. I do my best to ask for clarification on things I’m unsure of, and I welcome more information and other opinions—also hoping those giving them aim to be civil too.

The majority of this blog pertains to novels and novel writing. I’m limited in what I can offer on publishing, but some of the things I’ve shared here are a direct result of either face to face or online discussions with professionals in the Christian publishing industry. Sometimes the consensus turns out not to offer any answers or at least not any surefire or easy ones to the industry’s flaws or problems.

Things in the industry haven’t gotten any easier with valuable people being let go in cost-cutting measures, and some agents suggesting the usual risk-averse publishers have become even moreso which is a clear indication that those of us who read a lot will be sampling a great deal of the same things by a lot of the same authors—which isn’t entirely a bad thing for readers. Not particularly a good thing for wannabe writers.

However, some agents insist the door is still cracked open for new authors, just barely.

But what I really want to say here is this: an opinion is just that. Lately I’ve written some reviews which point out my problems with the books. I’m not doing this to be controversial, negative, or a malcontent. My novel reviews give my opinion of the books I’ve read. When I state my opinions, criticisms, and/or my preferences, I realize they won’t necessarily jive with anyone else who’s read the story. I think it’s important to add that to a person, each publishing representative assures me they want a truthful review. So I give mine.

Recently, I read some comments which threw out the opinion that a bestselling author wasn’t a good writer. I staunchly disagree with that opinion, and I think it’s ridiculous to express your dislike for a writer’s voice and/or style in this manner especially when millions of his/her books have been purchased. Really it’s not a valid opinion when it’s given matter-of-factly. Why not say I’m not a fan of their voice or their stories? Obviously there are literally millions of people who disagree, so it kind of makes the person saying it sound foolish. Who made this person judge and jury?

I just want you to know I take no pleasure in giving a halting review or criticizing the story or its characters. It’s just my opinion after having invested my time in reading the book. I’m entitled to my opinion, but I thoroughly realize that’s all it is. Fair enough?

Lord God, your mercy extends to us all. Thank you for that. I’m desperate for you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.