Hoping for the best, deciding there’s some good in the worst
By Therese Walsh | August 18, 2009 |
Fifty-six days from today my debut novel, The Last Will of Moira Leahy, will be released. I learned recently that my novel will be reviewed by Publishers Weekly next week (8/24) and Kirkus the week after next (9/1). My immediate reaction was to feel nervous. This. Is probably natural. No one wants to see their work examined for flaws, and let’s face it, reviewers of this caliber see the very best novels; they are consummate pros at recognizing brilliance–and something that could’ve sparkled more than it does.
Something happened as I considered this. A shift occurred, and my nerves settled. It’s okay. My novel has flaws, I’m sure of it. Have I done my very best? Yes. I have zero regrets. But that’s not why I’m okay with a tough review. What I’ve decided to do is use any criticism the book receives as a learning tool, just like I would with traditional critique. Whatever the criticisms are about–character or setting or voice or dialog or plot–I can use them to help become a better writer. Because, you know, book #2 isn’t finished.
Does it sound like I’m preparing for the worst? My mother taught me long ago that it’s good to do that, to armor up. But, yes, of course, I’m hoping for the best. For as long as I worked on Last Will–beginning it in 2002, then chucking it all to start again in 2005/06, finishing it in 2007, then editing it through late 2008–I would love the satisfaction of a good review.
I’ll let you know how it goes. Write on, all!
Therese Walsh (she/her) co-founded Writer Unboxed in 2006 and is the site’s editorial director. She was the editor of WU’s only book, Author in Progress, and runs the Writer Unboxed UnConference.
Her second novel, The Moon Sisters, received starred reviews and was named one of the best books of the year by Library Journal and Book Riot.
Learn more about Therese on her website, and sign up for her newsletter to be among the first to hear about any new projects.
If I had written your book I would be feeling confident about the reviews!
I’m kind of that way too: expect/prepare for the worst, hope for the best.
I’m sure you’ll be fine, though!!
And honestly, I’m of the opinion that reader opinions matter more than reviewers. Because who is paying for my work? Who’s going to buy my next book? Not the reviewer.
I completely understand your anxiety, b/c I can barely handle the submission process, but at the same time I am so excited for you. You are going to be reviewed! You are a published writer! No matter what happens next, no one can take that achievement away from you, even the critics :) Congrats!
Good Luck, Therese!
I’m wishing you the best and Have you on my to-buy list!
Nervewracking, sure. But
“What I’ve decided to do is use any criticism the book receives as a learning tool, just like I would with traditional critique. ”
This. You are so centered about the process. And I’m confident that you have nothing to worry about regarding bad reviews. Very confident, in fact.
We have a saying in the army: plan for the worst and hope for the best. I’m sure your launch is going to be fantastic. I’ve read somewhere that a lot of writers don’t read reviews because it can cripple their voice, making them paranoid about the words they put on paper. I’ve also read message boards that were highly critical of authors who seemed to try and write to make everyone happy. Write the story that you’ve got to tell, the rest will follow!
Good luck!
Jess Scott
You’ve done everything possible, Therese, right down to the letter. ;) May the reviewers be fair, objective and enchanted.
Keeping my fingers crossed, and confident that the critics will love Last Will.
Thanks for everyone for crossed fingers, good vibes and confidence!
Good luck and thanks – now I have another novel to keep my eyes out for. The worst that could happen has already passed, meaning you could be failing as a writer (which you obviously aren’t, since publication is on the way). So from that perspective, it should be a golden sunrise on the horizon for you.
i just can’t wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it’s going to be all good!!!!!!!!
Your an inspiration! Good luck and keep us posted.
Best of luck to you! No matter how often we’re published, or how frequently we’re reviewed, I don’t think any of us overcome the fear of being rejected, criticized, or misunderstood.
After years of being a newspaper columnist, I finally learned how to thicken my skin. I got lots of fan letters and some hate mail, too, and through it all I realized that I can’t please everyone all the time.
You’re wise to prepare yourself for negative reviews — but don’t be surprised if your book is a big hit, too.
Best of luck! Sending good thought and well wishes your way.
Can’t wait to read your book.
Thoughts, actually. Not just one thought. :)
Thanks for the support, Eric, Thea, Heather, Cindy and Erika. I appreciate it!
Congratulations, and best of luck!