from Anne Montgomery
In A Streetcar Named Desire Blanch DuBois believed she could rely on the kindness of strangers. Many authors seem to feel the same way.
I’ve written quite a lot recently about the never-ending quest for reviews, the currency which sells books. To get these critiques we authors “depend on the kindness of strangers,” as Blanche DuBois said so pithily as she descended into madness.
When I
first started asking for reviews, I would scan bloggers’ websites, check their
guidelines, compose my query. And then, I’d see that dreaded line: “I am not
accepting submissions at this time.” I would react a bit crankily, at that
point. I mean, why have a review blog if you don’t want to do reviews? Geez!
“I’m
taking a short break from taking on any more books,” wrote one blogger. “I will
still be reviewing, but my list of to-reads has become a little over whelming,”
“I am
still digging out of the hole of book review over-commitment, and I
continue to over-commit,” said another. “Is there a support group for this
problem?”
Eventually,
I started to think about reviewers in a new light. Mostly, these are regular
people, not professional journalists drawing a paycheck for reading books and
sharing their thoughts. These are folks who love literature and generally
impart their opinions for free, who – when authors are very lucky – post their
reviews on Amazon and Goodreads and Twitter, and lots of other social media
platforms. These are moms and dads with day jobs.
“We
are back on Earth and reviewing. Unfortunately, we’re so busy, it’s unlikely
we’re going to accept a request.”
While
rummaging for reviews, I am also sometimes taken aback by a subtle whiff of
snark.
“I
will no longer reply to emails that don’t follow this policy. If you ignore me
here, I’ll ignore you. Yes, that sounds harsh, but I get nearly 70 requests a
day. I’m only one person and I don’t have the time to search for missing
information or reply to every email that fails (to) include what I need to make
a decision.”
Yikes!
Maybe not so subtle in this case, but again, consider the reviewer’s
point-of-view. They are interested in your book’s premise, but you forgot to
add the link they requested, or your contact information was wrong, or you
failed to include your cleverly composed synopsis, leaving them without the
important facts they need to decide if you’re an author they’d like to work
with.
The
bottom line is let’s have compassion, people. Let’s think of the reviewer as a
friend. A busy friend. We can make their lives easier and they can help us sell
books. So, carefully follow the directions bloggers lay out on their
submissions and policy pages. Even if, sometimes, those directives are just a
wee bit strange.
“I
don’t do demon/human/angel love, but bad demons are fine, same for angels. I
just don’t like them in romances.”
Indeed.
Here is a brief peek at Anne's latest release.Bud Richardville is inducted into the Army as the United States prepares for the invasion of Europe in 1943. A chance comment has Bud assigned to the Graves Registration Service where his unit is tasked with locating, identifying, and burying the dead. Bud ships out, leaving behind his new wife, Lorraine, a mysterious woman who has stolen his heart but whose secretive nature and shadowy past leave many unanswered questions. When Bud and his men hit the beach at Normandy, they are immediately thrust into the horrors of what working in a graves unit entails. Bud is beaten down by the gruesome demands of his job and losses in his personal life, but then he meets Eva, an optimistic soul who despite the war can see a positive future. Will Eva’s love be enough to save him?
Praise for Your Forgotten Sons
“Although a defty crafted work of original fiction, “Your Forgotten Sons” by Anne Montgomery is inspired by a true story. An original and inherently interesting read from start to finish, “Your Forgotten Sons” will prove to be an immediate and enduringly appreciated pick.” Midwest Book Review
“This was a quick, riveting read that really challenged me to think differently about our servicemen and women, especially those who take on the jobs that don’t get heroically depicted in the media or news…I really highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a different take on American history. I left it with a newfound appreciation for the unsung heroes.” Bekah C NetGalley
“This is the truth. It’s gritty and painful and bittersweet – and true. When you think you’ve read every perspective of WWII, along comes Bud to break your heart.” Bridgett Siter Former Military Reporter
“Anne Montgomery writes a strong story and I was hooked from the first page. It had a great concept and I enjoyed that this was inspired by a true story…It was written perfectly and I was invested in the story. Anne Montgomery has a great writing style and left me wanting to read more.” – Kathryn McLeer NetGalley
Available at Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Books, and Kobo
When she can, Anne indulges in her passions: rock collecting, scuba diving, football refereeing, and playing her guitar.
Learn more about Anne Montgomery on her website and Wikipedia. Stay connected on Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter.
Yes, begging for book reviews is a grind, Anne. Question: Have you ever paid for reviews? This seems to be the way of the world, especially when I get inundated with friend requests from book promotional specialist who will read your book for a fee. Augh.
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