Advanced Reader Reviews are out and Why Feedback Matters
On learning more about myself through my writing style, and a dive into the "show, don't tell" advice for writers
For the past few days, my mind has been drifting through many things; moving at a speed more quick than usual. I pace through my past few days trying to chase self-imposed time frames for my children. This is what an afternoon looks like for me: at 1:00 P.M., I need to have my sanctioned 2-hour nap while my mother-in-law is in the other room watching my newborn. If I sleep longer than that I’ll be late to my next task and my mother-in-law won’t be able to perform her other duties. I take 30 minutes to get ready to leave the house nowadays, so by 3:30 P.M., I need to visit my cat confined at the vet clinic. I must get back by 4:30 P.M. to relieve my mother-in-law and spend some time with my toddler until my newborn needs to take her bath at 6:00 P.M. followed by the family dinner at 6:30 P.M. We all try to eat together; we want to make it a tradition. This is how my mind tries to traverse busy days. It is all made even more urgent because of tasks I must do as my debut novel burgeons into its launch date.
Now, from a writing perspective, shouldn’t I have simply claimed I was preoccupied with my debut novel’s development and mounting mental load?
One of my early reviewers commented that my writing was too straightforward. In her review, she suggested that the “show, don’t tell” advice would benefit me, and this intrigued me. Given my lifelong exposure to the clear, concise styles of Mitchell, Austen, and Hemingway, I’m captivated by how my writing has embraced a similar direct approach. In person, I value clarity and efficiency in conversation, and I aim for the same straightforwardness and conciseness in my writing. So I wondered if people overemphasize the impact of “show, don’t tell” when discussing what makes up a truly great writer.
As a former professor, I did what comes naturally when captivated—I obsessively researched the subject. After a few days of research, my earnest conclusion is this: while it is important to value evocativeness in writing, it is just as important to put forward simplicity and clarity.
I came upon an informative piece by professional editor, Alysa Matesic. In it, she explained what most writers misunderstand about the ‘show don’t tell’ advice. What stood out in her article was her pointed advice against taking the “show, don’t tell” maxim too literally in one’s writing. This will weigh down your writing and leave your audience exhausted. Which, in my cozy writing style, I’d strongly want to prevent for my readers.
Similarly, Sean Glatch, in an article, asserts that showing, while a powerful tool for effectively capturing readers, is best for specific scenes that involve more emotional undercurrents, while telling is better for delivering important information in the book’s details.
Both Matesic and Glatch express the same sentiment: that there should be a balance. Glatch, in his well-informed opinion, believes creativity, craft, and confidence can achieve this balance.
Now, the key question is: Did my debut novel achieve a successful balance? I can say with confidence that I pursued that goal, whether I achieved it is another matter.
The thing about reading reviews is that they vary from person to person. I’ve had majority of my early reviews state that my writing style was refreshing, and beautifully descriptive. While some reviews stated I was rather direct. So how does one attune to this feedback?
I think there comes a time as a writer when it is important to never stray from your own voice. Even if some gratuitous suggestions, though well-intentioned, may state otherwise. It is essential to differentiate between a legitimate stylistic flaw and a purposeful contribution to an author’s unique style and brand. Effective writing requires fundamental stylistic, grammatical, and structural elements; however, individual expression, shaped by unique personality and style, is what truly distinguishes an author’s work. So, don’t take these ideas as gospel, but keep them in mind for later.
As always, stay true to your voice, but learn and strive to sharpen it.
In more exciting bookish news:
I’m still accepting ARC readers, through my literary PR manager, Nicole. If you’d like a copy of my book in exchange for an honest review. Just click on this: ARC Sign-up for TToPA
If you love cozy and compelling contemporary fiction and want to delve into one you can pre-order my book here for Philippine based pre-orders and here for Global pre-orders
Stuff I’ve been consuming:
Black Doves on Netflix — I love Keira Knightley. Watching her act as an unhinged mom and spy during Christmas is such a holiday treat.
The Wedding People by Alison Espach and Blood over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang — I read an average of four books simultaneously, and I love these two the most! Now if only I could contribute more reading time to finish them.
Amazon Ads 2.0 Course by David Cheson — It’s completely free and helping me understand the nitty gritty nuances behind Amazon book keywords and how to strategically place your book on the Amazon market.
My husband is gifting me a Cricut Joy Xtra and Cricut Mini Heat Press! I’ll be busy using those before my book launches.