Reviews and Five Star Ratings...

centexhairysub · March 6, 2022

Hello,

Just trying to get some feedback about this issue; I had an author write to me basically asking me not to review his stories if I was not giving them a five star review. He/She basically said that the readership of GayAuthors simply was unable or unwilling to read stories that did not have five star reviews. Do others believe this to be true?

I personally rarely give a five star review. They are reserved for stories that I believe that their is basically nothing about the story that can be improved on to enhance the readers enjoyment of the story. I just find very few stories on either this site or authors that meet that criteria. By the same token, I give very few one or two star reviews. I can usually find enough about almost any story to justify at least a three star review. I have actually written very glowing reviews on a story but only given it three stars because while I have loved the story; either pacing or character development, or plotting, or something was off putting enough that I felt that while I truly enjoyed the story; it was either harder to read or stay with because of whatever the issue was. That doesn't mean others should not read it; and I encourage them to do so; but it means that it simply did not rate higher for me than three stars, even though I really enjoyed the story.

Do others agree with this author? Should I not leave reviews unless I am willing to give five stars no matter what I think? I thought the reviews were about giving your honest opinion of the story; is that not why we leave them or read them? Should I stop leaving reviews unless the review is worthy of a five star rating?

Mrsgnomie · March 6, 2022

I don’t think anyone should feel they can’t leave an honest review or that they should only review if it’s 5 stars. I think that defeats the purpose.

I have always found it strange though, when I read a glowing review (on any platform) and it’s accompanied by less than 5 stars. To me, a glowing review IS 5 stars. (Unless your in the business of being a professional critiquer, in that case, please don’t read my stories lol)

As an author, if someone did that to me (left a glowing review that was less than five stars), I would feel a little defeated. It might even eat a me a little, wondering what I did wrong.

My nature is more of an encourager than a discourager so I will likely lean towards a 5 star simply because I know the effort put into writing a story. It’s personal thing. For me to warrant a 3 or 4 star would mean there is something like major plot errors or stilted and hard to read story.

Ultimately, each person will review as they see fit. Do I want less than 5 stars? No lol. But I don’t think 5 stars should be unattainable either, not on a platform like this where the work is free and voluntary.

I’m curious what others say, especially when we have both sides giving opinions; readers giving reviews and authors receiving reviews. Interesting topic.

Edited March 9, 2022 by Mrsgnomie

kbois · March 6, 2022

Mrs. G. makes some good points which I agree with.

When it comes to reviews, especially on a site as unique as GA, I think most reviewers tend to lean toward the 5 stars for the sole reason of personal preference and they truly enjoyed the story.

This site exists to promote all levels of writing. From the fledgling author to someone on the same level as Stephen King or Danielle Steele.

Honestly, if a reader is inclined to leave less than 4 stars, they should perhaps consider PM-ing the author first and giving them some honest feedback on a less public format. At least give the author a chance to address any concerns in a less public manor. Especially if it is a new author who would benefit more from some constructive criticism rather than being torn apart over lack of writing skills, plot issues or whatever.

If the answers are unsatisfactory or unanswered, then by all means leave a less than 4 star review.

You have to keep in mind that the majority of authors post on this site for a variety of reasons and most are in it because it's something they enjoy doing, not because it's a career choice.

Even though we think our stories might belong on the New York Times bestseller list, the reality is, writing and posting on GA is an outlet which we utilize for many reasons, but first and foremost to most authors, is to bring a little reading pleasure to the GA audience.

Do I wish all of my stories get all 5 star reviews? Of course! Is it reality that they will appeal to everyone on that level? Of course not.

But to leave less than 5 stars without validation does a disservice to both the author and the reader.

It's not a true gauge for other readers if you leave 3 stars but say that you really enjoyed the story. If you thoroughly enjoy a story, but feel there are issues with pacing or characters by all means say so in your review. Just give it a fair star rating that reflects your enjoyment of the story rather than technical issues.

Ron · March 7, 2022

3 hours ago, centexhairysub said:

I personally rarely give a five star review.

What do you mean by "five-star review?

Clearly stars are a simple rating apparatus and should not be viewed as a review per se. A review would be critiquing the story in words that express your critical appraisal of a story in clear wording along with a summary of reasoning. Anything less and you haven't reviewed anything. A star rating is merely a quick assessment and not a review and authors and readers should realize that distinction and act accordingly before the author reaches the conclusion that their effort is diminished and/or for a reader to decide whether to read a story or not. In the end, of course, someone else's star-rated opinion, whether given lightly or with considered thought, may not have any effect on another reader's actual enjoyment.

Krista · March 7, 2022

I have never been a fan of the 5-star review system in general. Especially here where most authors are considered amateur hobbyist authors. I'm of the mind that most people don't consider the system to be that deep of a critique, but an off-hand/off-shoot of the actual review. I have received some honest low-star reviews for my earlier works, I know they are rough and awkward. (I state that in the story description) So that doesn't truly bother me, I expect people to be critical of them, even with the disclaimer-type description that I provide.

What I mean when I say, I feel the Star-Review system is an off-handed tool when leaving a review is, I don't think a lot of people use it in-line with the review they have written. I think it is more of a momentary 'feeling' sort of response to the story. The biggest example being 'glowing' reviews that does not say anything critical of the writing receiving anything less than Five Stars are confusing to authors, especially ones that may just be getting into writing.

I'm not going to lie and say that a positive/glowing review of my writing that doesn't receive Five Stars won't bother me, it has in the past. I would much rather my writing be critically assessed and have that match the star rating.

People tend to be visual as well, so keep that in mind. When you're shopping for something, or looking for something to read - in a place that has a lot of choice - what do you tend to gravitate towards? It is the stories, products, or whatever with the most five-star or best reviews, if they have that system implemented. If people are of that mind, then I can see where a less than 5-star review would hinder a person who may be writing here. I hope people actually read the body of the review instead of just look at a star rating, but there is no way of knowing if people are or not.

I will also advocate that you read and review as you see fit. You are here to read, and I am here to write. It isn't really my place to tell you how to conduct yourself as a reviewer/reader. As long as you're not actively encouraging people to 'not' read something within your tone/review. I do feel that is a disservice to the author who is looking for an audience.

To Add as an aside: If you're an author out there that is solely relying on Review ratings to promote your writing, then you're doing yourself an injustice. Actively promote your writing, engage with the community around you, create a story discussion, actually respond to people who leave comments on your chapters, etc. If you're visible and your writing is visible you will find an audience.

Edited March 7, 2022 by Krista

centexhairysub · March 7, 2022

1 hour ago, Ron said:

What do you mean by "five-star review?

Clearly stars are a simple rating apparatus and should not be viewed as a review per se. A review would be critiquing the story in words that express your critical appraisal of a story in clear wording along with a summary of reasoning. Anything less and you haven't reviewed anything. A star rating is merely a quick assessment and not a review and authors and readers should realize that distinction and act accordingly before the author reaches the conclusion that their effort is diminished and/or for a reader to decide whether to read a story or not. In the end, of course, someone else's star-rated opinion, whether given lightly or with considered thought, may not have any effect on another reader's actual enjoyment.

You have to rate using the star system to leave a review. I try and write and thoughtful opinion on the story that I have read. I can usually always find a few good things to mention and try and explain why I enjoyed the story or what I had an issue with in it. That said, I do understand that many that write on here do so because they enjoy; they are not professional writers and have no plans to become one. For me to rate something five stars means it is basically so good that it really cannot be improved on; or this is at least how I see it.

Not just on this site but others as well; probably 85% of my reviews as far as the stars go are either three star or four star. It is rare for me to give anything five stars but it is also rare for me to give a one star or even a two star review but they do happen; and I always try to explain why I am giving that one or two star review. I think I have only ever given a one star review once on GayAuthors; and I explained that the subject matter was just so distasteful to me and the way the author glorified it was just not something I understood.

My written reviews don't always wax poetically but I do try to point out what I liked or what I had issues with be it writing style, character development, plotting, or the flow to the story. Also, never understand how anyone can leave a review for a story before it is finished. How do you know you are going to like or dislike the whole thing.

To get to the point you are making and that I agree with; neither author was upset by what I wrote, they both actually had no issues as my written words were vey complimentary. The issue they both had was I rated each of their stories four star versus five stars. I enjoyed both stories; one was one of the best I have read so far this year and the other was truly well done; but each had aspects that I though could have been improved on, hence my four star rating.

I just feel the written part of the review should be more important than what star rating it is given. If other readers are to lazy to actually read the review; I see this as their issue not mine. Frankly, I agree with @Krista, I wish you could leave the review without using the the star rating at the top.

Mrsgnomie · March 7, 2022

1 hour ago, centexhairysub said:

You have to rate using the star system to leave a review. I try and write and thoughtful opinion on the story that I have read. I can usually always find a few good things to mention and try and explain why I enjoyed the story or what I had an issue with in it. That said, I do understand that many that write on here do so because they enjoy; they are not professional writers and have no plans to become one. For me to rate something five stars means it is basically so good that it really cannot be improved on; or this is at least how I see it.

Not just on this site but others as well; probably 85% of my reviews as far as the stars go are either three star or four star. It is rare for me to give anything five stars but it is also rare for me to give a one star or even a two star review but they do happen; and I always try to explain why I am giving that one or two star review. I think I have only ever given a one star review once on GayAuthors; and I explained that the subject matter was just so distasteful to me and the way the author glorified it was just not something I understood.

My written reviews don't always wax poetically but I do try to point out what I liked or what I had issues with be it writing style, character development, plotting, or the flow to the story. Also, never understand how anyone can leave a review for a story before it is finished. How do you know you are going to like or dislike the whole thing.

To get to the point you are making and that I agree with; neither author was upset by what I wrote, they both actually had no issues as my written words were vey complimentary. The issue they both had was I rated each of their stories four star versus five stars. I enjoyed both stories; one was one of the best I have read so far this year and the other was truly well done; but each had aspects that I though could have been improved on, hence my four star rating.

I just feel the written part of the review should be more important than what star rating it is given. If other readers are to lazy to actually read the review; I see this as their issue not mine. Frankly, I agree with @Krista, I wish you could leave the review without using the the star rating at the top.

I understand why there are star reviews. It’s one part of a picture. How one rates is subjective. There will be a hundred different opinions.

I think having this question open for discussion can help us understand differing POV’s but, ultimately, you will review how you see fit. Honestly, at least you are reviewing when so many don’t. I appreciate that. Thank you.

Ron · March 7, 2022

2 hours ago, centexhairysub said:

I just feel the written part of the review should be more important than what star rating it is given. If other readers are to lazy to actually read the review; I see this as their issue not mine. Frankly, I agree with @Krista, I wish you could leave the review without using the the star rating at the top.

Fair enough said, all of it. For my part I have left many comments that were often detailed and were once considered reviews but are no longer. Since the change I haven't left actual reviews as they now stand and therefore no stars for anyone to get upset about.

James K · March 7, 2022

9 hours ago, centexhairysub said:

Just trying to get some feedback about this issue

To give some feedback to you the reviewer, I looked at your latest review of T.R.'s Tale. The most important aspect if you rate less than five stars is to say why. In your review T.R.'s Tale you do not say why the story falls short of five stars. What you do say is: "Well written story, full of truly interesting and really well developed characters." You say it helps to know the characters having read previous stories and you summarise briefly what the story is about. You end your review recommending people to read the book, "Take a chance and sit a spell and enjoy this story..."

So, your review does the job of telling the potential reader what the theme of the story is about, that it's well written, and you recommend it. It fails to tell the potential reader or the author why you rated it four stars? Despite it being a story you would recommend and being well written, something made you rate it down, what?

This I find unfair for people reading the review and in particular for the author. It is fine to give four, three, two, or one star, never mind that most people almost always give five or a few four, or a rare three stars. The most important point is you have to justify your rating. As your review of that book stands there is nothing to justify not giving five stars.

If, and I understand, the book was not perfect, and you want to reserve five stars for exceptional novels, you need to say why. Tell me why this story wasn't perfect and add your reason to your review to make it balanced and justify four stars. Then perhaps go review your other reviews and do the same.

I would fully support your less than five stars if you explain your reasons.

Headstall · March 7, 2022

@centexhairysub Personally, I've loved the reviews you've left for my stories. I do understand all the different points being made, but the reviews you leave me are always kind and encouraging, and you point out the things you appreciate. You've made my day a few times. :yes: Would I always like five stars? Absolutely, but the way I figure it is maybe someday I will earn one of those from you. Cheers! Gary.

Edited March 7, 2022 by Headstall

James K · March 7, 2022

35 minutes ago, Headstall said:

Personally, I've loved the reviews you've left for my stories.

I looked at the first review for you by @centexhairysub that I found, it was for Larkspur: A Sidewinder Tale and rated four stars. It was a glowing review and recommendation to read it, so I easily understand how you would love this review. You say that one day you hope to get five stars from @centexhairysub, but how?

As in the other review I looked at randomly, how might you earn that fifth star, by pure hazard? Because once again there is nothing stated to explain why your story falls short. It doesn't seem to bother you as an author, unlike the author mentioned at the beginning of the thread. I have to say, it would bother me to get such a glowing review that was rated only four stars. I don't know, but might assume, because you are a very popular author and get lots of five star reviews, it isn't very important. Imagine it's your first story, you have a handful of readers, you get one review, that review and what was lacking with the story to not get five stars, becomes much more important?

lilansui · March 7, 2022

@centexhairysub From my point of view, you've always commented the story journey with me, leaving thoughtful insights on each chapter. When the review does come, I already know why it is rated the way it is, because you were with me at every step of the way as I posted each chapter. I do value that ongoing conversation you leave on each chapter, very much. And I know I fail to say it enough times, but I find the comments useful, and I thank you for the reviews you do leave me.

chris191070 · March 7, 2022

I've had to think long and hard how to answer this, because I've reviewed over 300 stories.

Most readers do tend to leave 5 star reviews, but that's based on there taste of author and story.

I think most reviews I've left are 5 stars, but that is usually based on author, type of story etc.

If it's a new author, I might take a day or two after I've read the story, possibly reread before I review.

In the 5 years I've been a member not every story I've read had received a review, as I didn't think I could do a fair review. So I think no review is better than a bad review. With some new authors I've written to them instead or left a chapter comment instead of a review.

You need to remember all these authors are amateur's and write for enjoyment.

Edited March 7, 2022 by chris191070

Mawgrim · March 7, 2022

13 hours ago, centexhairysub said:

Just trying to get some feedback about this issue; I had an author write to me basically asking me not to review his stories if I was not giving them a five star review. He/She basically said that the readership of GayAuthors simply was unable or unwilling to read stories that did not have five star reviews. Do others believe this to be true?

I'm not sure it makes a huge amount of difference to most readers whether a story has only five star reviews or not. Ultimately, each reader is going to be influenced by their own personal taste; a story one person loves might get a lukewarm reception from another.

I've always looked forward to @centexhairysub commenting on my chapters as they are posted and value every review I get. I can see why some writers might be bothered by a review which brings down their overall star rating, but I don't reckon it makes much difference to the number of people who actually choose to read the story.

James K · March 7, 2022

18 minutes ago, Mawgrim said:

I'm not sure it makes a huge amount of difference to most readers whether a story has only five star reviews or not.

Speaking as a reader, it does make a difference. I read a story summary, I read the story reviews, and yeah, perhaps you're right about number of stars, but I look at that too.

Kitt · March 7, 2022

I NEVER read reviews or look at star ratings before reading a story. I don't want someone else's opinion coloring my enjoyment of any story. Same for story comments.

I seldom leave comments due to several instances in which I was publicly ridiculed for my opinions. Not simply having a differing opinion, but "how dare you say that" sort of personal attacks. I do not leave reviews for the same reasons.

Personally, were I moved to leave a review, honesty would be the key word. What I liked and why, what I did not like and why. Be nice but honest. For this reason, I would probably send my remarks in a pm, especially if I loved the story but find technical errors like spelling detract.

All that being said, I also post any comments BEFORE I read those already posted, so I apologize if I have just repeated something already said. Now, off to read the opinions of others!

Kitt · March 7, 2022

13 hours ago, kbois said:

Just give it a fair star rating that reflects your enjoyment of the story rather than technical issues

Sorry, but technical issues do have a bearing on how much I enjoy a story. The best plot ever can easily be scuttled by lousy grammar or spelling. At least turn on spell check! While I can ( and do ) read past these issues, I have also been known to advise an author via pm to get an editor.

Carlos Hazday · March 7, 2022

8 minutes ago, Kitt said:

Sorry, but technical issues do have a bearing on how much I enjoy a story. The best plot ever can easily be scuttled by lousy grammar or spelling. At least turn on spell check! While I can ( and do ) read past these issues, I have also been known to advise an author via pm to get an editor.

What she said.

However, I'll add I rarely finish a story with an abundance of technical issues. Maybe forgivable in a new author, but anyone with a couple of stories under their belt should either learn how to write properly or expect their stories to be less popular than others. There's one author I'm thinking of who has great plots but writes like a high school kid. Whenever I try a new tale from them, I end up disappointed.

Carlos Hazday · March 7, 2022

15 hours ago, centexhairysub said:

I had an author write to me basically asking me not to review his stories if I was not giving them a five star review. He/She basically said that the readership of GayAuthors simply was unable or unwilling to read stories that did not have five star reviews. Do others believe this to be true?

Tell them to write better stories or go jump in a lake. The nerve! Any artist, including authors, put themselves out there whenever they share with the public. If anyone's so insecure about their work, maybe they should consider a different hobby.

I've been trashed by readers a few times, and I always try to be civil in my response. Even when it's a bone-headed comment. Tell me who they are and I'll go leave 1 star reviews just for the heck of it.

kbois · March 7, 2022

10 minutes ago, Kitt said:

Sorry, but technical issues do have a bearing on how much I enjoy a story. The best plot ever can easily be scuttled by lousy grammar or spelling. At least turn on spell check! While I can ( and do ) read past these issues, I have also been known to advise an author via pm to get an editor.

I agree that a story can be less than stellar due to technical issues like grammar and spelling. However, those are most often found in stories by new authors and are able to be corrected with proper editing, which should be done via pm.

I've had issues pointed out to me on every single one of my stories, both in the comments and via pm. I make sure the issue is addressed and always thank the reader for pointing it out. It helps me grow as an author.

In those cases it should certainly be mentioned in the review. It's up to the author to decide if he/she/they will heed the advice.

This has proven to be a great topic and the variety of opinions just goes to show the awesome diversity of the GA audience.

Carlos Hazday · March 7, 2022

14 hours ago, kbois said:

But to leave less than 5 stars without validation does a disservice to both the author and the reader.

I disagree.

If errors are not pointed out, how is an author to improve? I cringe when I read reviews claiming a story's well written when I just covered it in red with my imaginary editor's pencil.

Kitt · March 7, 2022

2 minutes ago, Carlos Hazday said:

What she said.

However, I'll add I rarely finish a story with an abundance of technical issues. Maybe forgivable in a new author, but anyone with a couple of stories under their belt should either learn how to write properly or expect their stories to be less popular than others. There's one author I'm thinking of who has great plots but writes like a high school kid. Whenever I try a new tale from them, I end up disappointed.

I find many people who read my prompt responses stopped reading because while there is the potential to continue some of them to multi chapter stories, I just can't seem to get a chapter two out of any of my ideas. As the titles suggest, writing my bright ideas down allows me to focus on other things. Unfortunately by the time I return to an idea the brightness has dimmed, and I have no idea where to take a concept.

Carlos Hazday · March 7, 2022

1 minute ago, kbois said:

However, those are most often found in stories by new authors and are able to be corrected with proper editing, which should be done via pm.

I disagree again. I fail to understand the fixation with offering criticism in PM. The story's public, so should the commentary. If someone can't handle the heat, they should get out of the kitchen

Carlos Hazday · March 7, 2022

1 minute ago, Kitt said:

I find many people who read my prompt responses stopped reading because while there is the potential to continue some of them to multi chapter stories, I just can't seem to get a chapter two out of any of my ideas. As the titles suggest, writing my bright ideas down allows me to focus on other things. Unfortunately by the time I return to an idea the brightness has dimmed, and I have no idea where to take a concept.

I wasn't talking about you. LOL

Carlos Hazday · March 7, 2022

BTW - My interest in this thread's purely academic since I've never received a review from @centexhairysub

PS - I gave this topic 5 stars.

Edited March 7, 2022 by Carlos Hazday

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