Into the Fire

Books can be bought for 99 cents for Kindle owners. Good books. Bad books can be bought for that price too. In all the bantering about good, bad, and ugly books, I had to ask myself what makes a book "bad" for me?

Here are my reasons for considering a novel to be "bad".

Stereotypical characters – both good and bad

Shoddy writing – when translated means it's unimaginative, utilitarian, almost anyone could've written the words, stilted, unnatural conversations, predictable plot outcomes before completing the first chapter

Combine these factors and I'm forcing my way through pages due to review obligations. Some authors get only one chance to appeal to me. Others get two. I confess to allowing three, but after that: no more.

I've reduced selections of review opportunities in recent months because of not wanting to face drudgery. Investing my time in an author's work is no small consideration. And since four of my last five have not warranted the use of my time, my considerations might get even more stringent. It's a matter of taste: mine.

Lord, I appreciate your writers. I understand the work it takes to create. Please continue to encourage your people to do what you've called them to do and provide what each one needs to complete your work. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.