I’m reaching out to you to ask what you would do if you were me.
I have been posting Sookie’s Present on FF.net, and I have an unhappy and vocal reader. One of the problems with FF is that readers can post anonymous (Guest) reviews, which means I can’t respond if there are issues/comments that need to be addressed. (This is one of the many reasons why I love wordpress so much!)
For Chapter 6, Guest wrote: UGH! I was hoping this Sookie would be smarter and NOT take any of that disgusting Bill’s blood but she’s still the naive idiot from the books. If Sookie has sex with Bill in the upcoming chapter I will NOT continue reading this story. It’s bad enough that Sookie has Bill’s blood.
I tried to reassure Guest in an author note at the beginning of Chapter 7, saying, “For those of you who are worried about Bill being involved in this story (and Bill getting his grimy hands all over Sookie), I can assure you now that I don’t write Sookie/Bill FF. If you’ve read my other stories, you already know that.”
For Chapter 7, Guest (I’m assuming it’s the same person) wrote: Bill is obviously NOT losing his hold on Sookie since you made Sookie have his blood. I’m bitter over it, can’t you tell?
So my note didn’t work … now what? I tried really hard to explain the premise of this story from the get go. Do I waste my time explaining that my Sookie is smart enough to be wary of Bill, or that she didn’t have a choice in taking Bill’s blood (since he forced her to drink it after nearly getting killed, just like in the book), or that I hate Bill’s guts and the only reason he’s in this story is because I needed someone to motivate Eric to be his most alpha-male self?
I know I can’t please everyone, but I REALLY want to. Why is this bothering me so much? *sigh*
MySecretOFanFiction 
I know it’s hard to ignore negative feedback, but you need to look at two things:
1- This person or persons insists on posting anonymously, which in my opinion means he/she is an absolute coward. If you can’t post a criticism, even if it’s negative, and be brave enough to sign your name to it, then your opinions don’t even deserve consideration.
2- This is one or two negative comments vs. HOW MANY positive ones for your story? I know there are vastly more positive ones because I’m one of the people posting them. 😉 Please look at it logically…those comments are just one or two drops of water in an entire bucket of champagne. They mean NOTHING!
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I believe you. You’re right about everything! I hate anonymous reviews for that reason. I know there are going to be people who are unhappy with my stories, I get it. I really do. And you’re right, you have left me dozens of lovely reviews, along with many others.
I just feel this ridiculous urge to explain myself to them. What the hell is wrong with me? Seriously, this is like therapy, so thanks for humoring me and talking me through it. LOL
BTW, I love getting reviews, especially yours. 🙂
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Please try not to let this bother you. I know it’s hard, but I believe this coward is the same one that rants and raves about these stories “anonymously” all the time and upsets many writers. This is one reason people no longer post on FF. If the reader doesn’t like something about a story they shouldn’t read it!!! Your writing is awesome and you are truly talented. I think the “guest” needs to remember they are reading fiction and that they can choose whether to read or not. Again, I wouldn’t put much stock in the review because this “guest” sends these types of reviews so often to different readers that it is bordering on harassment.
I truly hope you will still be submitting your writing, even if it is not on FF. You are one of my favorites! Take care and goodnight!!!
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Aww, thanks! I’m all warm and fuzzy inside. 🙂 So you think I shouldn’t bother addressing her? Why do I feel like I have to do that anyway? Reading her reviews made me so defensive I honestly didn’t know what to do about it. I could remove them from FF, but I don’t think that’s being honest. I don’t want to paint an unfair picture of what my readers think of my stories. Like I said, I know I can’t please everyone, but it still pisses me off… 🙂 Thanks for the love and flattery…I’m glad you enjoy my stories. 🙂
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As an author of FREE material your only responsibility is that you are not hateful in what you post and that you give fair warning if the material is likely to offend. (Hello, even if it wasn’t free ok would only have to negotiate with your publisher.) Your story is exactly that – YOUR STORY and as such you do not need to justify it. At all. Even if Sookie ends up having Bill’s babies 😉 (Joke! Please don’t latch onto that comment!).
Best wishes and keep writing,
Jen
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Thanks a lot Jen, now all I can see is Sookie having Bill’s babies. I need bleach for my eyeballs. *shudder*
Thank you for the rest though, I have a really hard time accepting that some people aren’t going to be happy no matter what I do. But that’s just what it is. I suppose I should ignore her comments and hope like hell she really DOES stop reading. Thanks for the encouragement and love, I always appreciate it! 🙂
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Brain bleach, indeed.
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See? I’m not the only one!
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Eek Brain bleach indeed. I just got an image of Scumbill babies with ugly sideburns. Blech
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LOL yes, and little old man faces. 🙂
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It’s easy for us to say ignore it and just look at the positive comments. Have you considered taking it down from ff.net and just posting it in wordpress? Maybe that is the cowards way out, but at least there is no anonymous posting here. I always feel like even if I disagree with where the author is taking the story/character, at the end of the day,the author is the driver and I am in the car. I can always get out of the car, and the driver has a right to take the car wherever they want. It’s YOUR vision and YOUR decision.
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I had thought about that, about only posting here and not on FF. The problem with that is, the people who followed me here came from FF, so I KNOW there are nice people out there who actually like what I write. FF is a great place for reaching a very broad audience (my wordpress…not so much), and I’m always hopeful that when I post a new story there I’ll pull readers here (where I can post what I want!). That said, it’s a huge pain in the ass posting twice, and anonymous reviews are horrid. So you may be onto something here…
Thanks for letting me drive all the time. I’m glad you have faith in me. 🙂
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Obviously this person has the gall to demand things from you but does not have the decency to let you know who they are. I completely agree with the first and second comments. Don’t let this one negative person sway your creativity. I’m not crazy about Bill either, but for heaven’s sake, did this person treat Charlaine Harris this way? Probably not. Did he/she heckle Alan Ball? I highly doubt it. You borrowed her toys to play in the sandbox, and I for one am happy you did. I’m enjoying this story immensely. I was a little disappointed that this wasn’t an update, but I see your dilemma and understand. There’s always going to be someone out there that wants to control your creativity, with threats an/or negativity. Please don’t let them. I’ve read almost all all your stories now and I love your style. It would be sad to have this person stifle your unique style of writing. Keep your chin up.
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Thanks Tami! You’re totally right about CH and Alan Ball. Maybe she IS the kind of crazy person who makes unreasonable demands! I’ve seen people do that on the internet and I always think they must be totally nuts to feel like they can demand changes by throwing a tantrum or making threats. Thank you for pointing that out to me. 🙂
I’m glad you’re enjoying the story. I’ll be updating in the morning, so no need to be disappointed. Thank you for the love and level-headedness. I knew asking you all would help me let it go…
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I can’t imagine what do you feel, but try not to be bothered with her comments. she is just a mean person not happy with her life and we should be sorry for her who attacks writers like you. I love your stories and they are great! 😉
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It’s hard not to be bothered by someone who is unhappy with something I’ve created… but I’ll say this, the outpouring of love from you all has been very eye opening. That’s for sure. 🙂 Thank you. I’ll keep writing and posting and hope to keep the majority of my readers happy!
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Don’t worry about one reviewer. You should disable the anon reviews. I like the way the story is going. It is your story to tell how you want to. You should never have to explain yourself. Keep up the great work
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Sadly FFn took that away from authors. The only thing you can do is delete them in the first 36-48 hours.
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I just noticed that…but it’s better than nothing. 🙂
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I was thinking of doing that, but there are a lot of people who review through the guest option who don’t want to log in. It baffles me why I get so stuck on trying to fix one problem. It’s true that I’m trying out something new this time around, but I’ve never gotten the “I’m mad because you followed canon” thing. Thank you for helping me feel better and encouraging me when I’m feeling so shitty about one little thing. 🙂
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Honestly, don’t bother – the rest of us follow your story and can actually read the statements you leave about NO BILL/SOOKIE ACTION 😉 Just keep on writing, I enjoy it every time 🙂
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Who wants to read Bill/Sookie action? Yuk. Anyway, thank you. She should be able to read the notes right? Yeah…so I’ll just post a chapter like normal and go from there and hope she gives up on me (finally.). I am so happy you enjoy what I write. Makes me feel like I’m doing something right! 🙂 Thank you for that. 🙂
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You’re welcome – no need for thank yous, it is just my honest opinion…and that of everyone posting here 🙂 Looking forward to reading more, more, more 😉 Cheers!
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I’ll post today…and I hope you know how much I appreciate your kindness. 🙂
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Awesome, looking forward to it 🙂 Have a great weekend everybody!
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Weekends in spring aren’t really good…productive yes, but good? I’m not sure cutting and hauling wood all day is good. I’m so tired…sitting down is lovely though, so I’m glad I have other hobbies. 🙂
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Gah! You’re so right! The only action I want to read between the two of them is when she send him to a grisly final death & doesn’t feel the least bit of guilt over it.
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LOL Funny you should mention that…I’ve been working on something you’ll probably enjoy. 🙂
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I always enjoy whatever it is you write.
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You’re easy, what can I say? 😉
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I’ve heard that before…
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Me too! Twinners!
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IGNORE the idiot who obviously cant read properly as u’ve explained the situation and ur stand on Bill .. just keep writing and if the person wants to keep reading they will and if not .. their loss ..
xo
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Thank you so much for the love! You’re right…I was sure to say what I was writing, and she clearly didn’t read that part. I’m just so tempted to explain it to her again…just in case. I guess it’s a lost cause. LOL. Thank you again, I’m feeling SO much better!!
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Fukkem. It’s awesome that you’ve tried to respond, but if that person really wanted any sort of open or honest dialog with you, they wouldn’t have written as “guest”
I mean, you could always threaten to write Sookie going down on Beehl if they don’t….orrrrrrrrrrrr not… *backs away slowly even though that’s a damn good threat!*
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LOL OH god, thanks for putting THAT in my head. Seriously, I have over a dozen stories here and on FF. Tell me where I’ve ever written Sookie and Bill together? Intimately, I mean…never! Because ew! I really like the idea though… as a threat, NOT as a possible scene. Just no.
You’re right, of course. If she wanted to have a conversation about the story, she would’ve logged in so I could respond to her. I’m not sure I could make her happy even when the story is all said and done and she knows how it all turns out (surprise, Sookie ends up with Eric. Shocking, I know.). Thank you for the love. I’m feeling oh so much better!!
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Eric himself could appear naked and willing before some people and they STILL would refuse to be happy… And while – for the story’s sake – you’ve written Bill and Sookie as being a sort of a couple, you have NEVER written Sookie ridin’ his 4″ mold-infested lollipop…NEVER!
*blech*
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It’s just getting worse! No! Brain bleach again! Quick! 4″ mold-infested lollipop. You’ve gone too far, my friend!
BTW, I think I’ll write a little story of Eric appearing naked and willing just to please myself (and you). 🙂
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LMAO!! GO FOR IT!!!!! 😀 Hell yeah!!!
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I knew you’d be on board!!
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meridian,
You are my hero today! What a great plan!
Secret O! You could write this as a side story dedicated to your “Anonymous” reviewer and see if they take the very obvious hint. Leave an A/N at the bottom explaining this was a nightmare for Sookie…and all of us…how it never happened and NEVER will. Then just delete this person’s comments in the future, it there are any. I can always write on of my “poison pen” comments to him/her! I love doing that when these people don’t have the courtesy or courage to reveal themselves. I typically tell them if they don’t like where the storyline is leading to go write their own story. From the few times I’ve done this, the writers have reported back to me that the person has disappeared. I’ve got no problem being the bad guy or the hated bitch. Someone has to be! As a book reviewer, it’s sometimes a weekly occurrence.
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I’m sure there are lots of lame people hiding behind anonymous reviews. This one wasn’t the worst, by any means…just demanding and whiny. That’s enough for me though. I think writing a scene where Sookie goes down on Bill would be enough to traumatize anyone! I’m actually not sure I have the stomach for it. 🙂 I’m glad ya’ll have my back. I’m feeling mighty loved. 🙂
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Please don’t let that type of comment get to you …obviously any person with a bit of sense would not read a story they do not like. No one is being forced to endure anything. It would be a shame and a loss of your time if you allow “anonymous” to deviate your attention from yr story any more….when you have so many fans who love everything you write!
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Thank you Toni, you’re so right! She’s not being forced to read my story…she could just stop reading and walk away. I get it, it’s not her cup of tea…so why keep reading? I just don’t understand it, and I also struggle with trying to please everyone all the time. It’s lame. Thank you for reassuring me, it’s nice to know that most of you actually enjoy what I do here. 🙂
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Anonymous reviews are anonymous for a reason; so the person can hide behind a word.
It’s hard to ignore them. I was going to suggest you disable guest reviews but the way ff has it set up you have two choices: Either let them be automatically posted or moderate them, in which case you still end up reading them.
Happy spring in any case.
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Yeah, I could definitely go through all the anonymous reviews and delete them if I like, but you’re right, it sucks either way. She definitely didn’t want to have a conversation with me, just voice her complaints from the security of her own computer. Thank you for your love and support AND for reminding me it’s spring. Man, I hate winter. 🙂
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I do too, hate winter that is. This one has been especially brutal! I can’t wait for the snow and sludge to disappear. Partly to make driving easier and partly because I’m tired of going snow blind every time I step outside at break so I can read!
Some people are just not happy unless they have something to complain about and she sounds like one of them. Best way to deal with someone like that is let them vent while you ignore them, lol.
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You’re right. There are some people who won’t be happy no matter what! I’m going to ignore them from now on and turn to you and the other bunches of readers here who love me. Works for me! 🙂 I hope your weekend doesn’t involve any more snow!
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Good for you and thank you :).
There was a little snow and cold, far too much cold and it’s still cold :(.
I want my warm weather like NOW!
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You should visit Utah…supposed to be mid 60s tomorrow! 🙂 I do love spring. 🙂
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I would love spring more if it would actually arrive dammit!
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LOL. I have family in VA and they’re still getting snow! Seriously! WTF?
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I have inlaws in NC and they’ve been complaining about unseasonable weather as well, lol.
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stupid weather!
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Ain’t that the truth!
A friend and I were discussing that this morning and we have come to the conclusion that Mother Nature is going through the change!
The last few years she’s been having hot flashes, now she’s got the shivers! lol
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Yep, I totally agree. 🙂 Hilarious comparison, BTW. 🙂
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Thank you :).
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I wish i could tell you to not let it bother you, because really that is what you should do. Unfortunately, i understand that it is not always that easy, especially when there is someone criticising a story that is close to your heart. I hope that you will remember that there is a very large group of people, like me, who appreciate the time and effort you put into your writing, and who perfectly well understand the concept of suspense and building up characters even if we don’t much like Bill.
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Yes! That’s exactly what I’m doing, using Bill to create conflict and suspense! Believe me, I hate his guts, but he’s such a helpful character to pit against Eric.
Thank you for understanding…it bothers me so much, and all I want to do is make her happy. I know it’s ridiculous, because it’s impossible, but I am a little crazy, so it’s within the realm of normal for me. LOL I am so glad you enjoy what I write, and that you have shared your love with me today…I am so grateful for it. 🙂
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I wouldn’t worry so much about it. They’ll either see that it was necessary or they won’t. If they don’t then they aren’t the reader for your stories.
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OOOh new blog to add to my TBR list. yey
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I know, and I’m really working on letting it go. Leaving a review takes effort, which is strange, because when I don’t like a story I’m reading, I just put it down. I don’t feel like I can write to the author and complain about what happened in the story. If that were the case, CH would get an earful from me. 🙂 Thanks for the love and encouragement!
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You shouldn’t let this affect you. People that hide behind an anonymous review are cowards anyway.
Threatening not to read the rest of the story because they think the story will not go how they want it is childish and you are better off not having someone like that reading it.
You don’t get paid to write ff and do it for your own pleasure so you do not owe this person anything!
Keep up the writing and feic the anon review!
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LOL You’re right…I actually think I’ll go in and disable anonymous reviews on FF. It will make it difficult for people who don’t want to sign in, but I think it will be better in the long run. Writing Eric and Sookie gives me so much pleasure, and it’s nice to be reminded to let go what I have no control over and focus on what I do. Thank you for the words of support and love, I appreciate it very much!
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Don’t let one reader get to you… It is YOUR story to write, and if Bill is needed to set the storyline up, then just continue on… There are lots of satisfied readers out there that are excitedly waiting for each post you send out…. Myself being one of those… Keep up the great work!
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Good! I’m glad you’re waiting excitedly out there for a new post from me…make that one bad one like a distant memory!!! Well, I’ll try to forget it and then I’ll go into FF and disable anonymous reviews. You’re right. I write what I want to read, and I always have. She and I are clearly not on the same page…thanks for the love!
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I think everyone else has said what I think. Anonymous posters are at best suspect. I’ve seen very nice reviews under this moniker. But I do not understand them. It’s so easy to create an account on fan fiction and then post reviews that can be directly responded to (good or bad). You should weigh the tone of this “guest” against the many others that you receive and give it the credence it so richly deserves..good riddance to bad rubbish..
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That’s it, I’ve made up my mind. I just changed the anonymous reviews setting. I’ll still have to read them, but it’s better than what is happening now. You’ve been following me forever, and I always love your reviews. Thank you for being one of the many who love me. 🙂
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I know it’s easier said than done, but let it go. Write for you. Write your story. No matter what we do, it is impossible to please everyone. But, you can focus on pleasing yourself by sticking to the story that you want to write. You and your beta have been together for a while. You know she’d let you know if you were going off in an odd direction. Trust your gut, trust your beta and trust all of the positive reviews and feedback you get. Let those be the louder voices that quiet people who hide behind a computer screen and keyboard and think it’s okay to flame. Because those comments left by ‘guest’ aren’t constructive in any way.
I may not always review, but thanks for sharing. xx
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You’re right, my beta WOULD tell me if I’m off base…and she loved this story. I do write for myself, and sometimes it’s hard to remember that. I can’t write to please everyone, no matter how crazy that makes me. I will avoid the pitfall of getting sucked down by the ones hiding behind their computer…thank you for the love. 🙂
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Sweetie just ignore it. You have done everything you can to reassure everyone this is a Sookie/Eric story. There will always be someone who just doesn’t get it. Stories need the antagonist. If they are all sweet and sugary they get boring.
You are a good writer so just ignore the negative if it is not constructive.
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Thank you! I’m so glad you think my writing is good…I try so hard, and I am trying to ignore the negative and focus on the positive. You sure are making it easier… 🙂
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Honestly I have no time for those who hide behind anonymous/guest status so my immediate (and a tad radical) reaction is ignore and/or delete. It is not as if the reviewer is providing suggestions or useful feedback (in my opinion). It is just whining at best or rude at worst because of the events happening in the story which frankly are your prerogative as a the author. She/he can find (or write?) another story if this one doesn’t provide the exact events she wants…
How to avoid wanting to please everyone? I think therapy… We are raised (esp. women at least in my society) to please and find it difficult when someone doesn’t like us / is dissatisfied with something we do… I am half kidding about the therapy but we have to find ways to accept that it is not a personal failure when what we do doesn’t satisfy EVERYONE…
Good luck and I look forward to the next chapter of Secret…
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LOL Yeah, therapy is always good. I’ve had LOTS of help…and trying to please everyone is a flaw I’ve had most of my life. You’re right, women ARE expected to be the pleasers and peace-makers. It’s impossible most of the time. It still gets me though, that she would take the time to complain instead of just switching off. Why bother? She and I are not the same, that’s for sure. Thank you for the reassurance and love, I don’t know where I’d be without it. 🙂
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Ignore it. I myself am not a fan of weak canon Sookie. I hate what Harris and Ball did with what started out as a strong premise. That said, this is your vision,your story to tell. Don’t let someone who isn’t strong enough to sign their real name change your story.
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Thank you! I have no intention of letting her weasel into my story and change things. I write what I want to read, and although I hate Bill’s slimy guts, he makes a great antagonist. I write all kinds of Sookies, and this one is a bit dense but she’s wary too, and that says something about how things will turn out for her. Thank you for your kindness, I do appreciate it!
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Welcome to the club!!!! It seems like the last few weeks have seen a lot of writers, including myself, be pummeled by the nameless ‘guest’ reviewer. Morggy and I were just having a conversation about this the other day, about a guest reviewer that is less than happy with her story Love as Drabbles. And as for my own stories….let’s not go there. Although I still want to know how I am “unAmerican” because I’m writing an all-human story that has Eric in the Army?!?!?! Sorry I got side-tracked by that one…
If you don’t want the hassle of guest reviewers, then you will have to abandon ff.net. I am reluctant to do that too, because those are the people that have encouraged me to keep writing. So, all you can do about the rude guest reviewers is ignore them and say “fuck off”. I know that isn’t easy, and God knows I don’t always practice what I preach, but if you give in to them, you let them win. Part of me wants to write a story that’s so sexual and violent in nature it will really piss them off, but I won’t do it because I don’t want to have all my stories pulled.
Take care doll and keep writing! Love this story!!! Know there are others out here in this great big world that appreciate your creativity and generosity in sharing your genius with us!
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What I’ve seen some authors do is post the first paragraph or 2 on FFn, then direct them to the blog or another site for the full story. Many readers will follow you to your blog/new site if they know where to find them. Others will put the PG13 edited version on FFn with the other blog as well. Although that last seems like too much work to me.
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It all seems like too much work. I have given serious consideration to moving ADL exclusively to WordPress but I feel bad doing it to all the people that follow the story there
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I can understand that, but the blame rest solely on FFn and their policies. Sadly they have plenty of Teen boppers using their kiddie categories to care about the adults on the site. Not to mention if they did openly allow adult content, Google would pull their ads, which of course they don’t want.
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Ah…I wondered why they don’t allow adult content! It all makes so much sense now.
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That wasn’t the original reason they changed it, but its a big part of why it’s stayed this way.
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I believe it. Mostly because you said it and you know everything. True. Again. 🙂
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I have the same problem, but I’m tempted to only post one chapter on FF. That makes so much sense to me. 🙂
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That’s what I’ve been doing, keeping it PG over there and posting the full story here. It’s a huge pain in the ass, but I don’t know what to do. Maybe I’ll just start posting the first chapter and that’s all…such a brilliant idea!!
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Oh and PS. I have some freebee “How to WordPress” books if you or any author wants them. Just shoot me a email and I’ll give you access to my dropbox of computer manuals. My yahoo email is TheLadyKT
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I’m going to email you for those (if you don’t mind me hijacking!) I’ve never set up a WP blog simply because I don’t have a clue how to do it and from the little bit of poking around I’ve done on the site, it doesn’t seem all that intuitive. 🙂
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You’re the nicest LadyKT there ever was. 🙂
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awww thx 😀
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It’s true…I wouldn’t lie about that. 🙂
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@LostinSpace. You are more than welcome to them. Any author is.
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LOL Unamerican? What the hell? It’s nothing as scathing as that…but it’s still frustrating that she took the time to review instead of just looking for another story. I really just want to tell her, “I’m sorry you don’t like my story. Stop reading it.” But do I really have to say that? Isn’t it just implied? It’s not assigned reading. Come on!
I’m reluctant to abandon ff too, because of the same reason…lots of people from there have followed me here and have encouraged and loved my stories. I also get new readers all the time because ff reaches such a broad audience. I guess I just have to take my lumps and accept I can’t make everyone happy and there is ALWAYS going to be someone who isn’t happy. Thank you for the love, and I’m SO sorry you’ve experienced such horrors from you anonymous readers. I’m glad the scales are tipped in the favor of goodness over suckiness. 🙂
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If you have readers who are offended by a story that’s sexual and violent in nature – as a story about vampires, IMO, would be expected to have in it unless you want to read a Mormon’s version of vampires where teenagers & vampires don’t have sex – whatever universe that’s in, I would have liked to have known since it may have prevented me from becoming a grandmother in my 40’s…even without the vampires. Throughout vampire mythology, vampires have been equated with sex. Those who are offended by this need to pay attention to ADULT rating. By ignoring it and continuing to read the story – I’ve witnessed this many, many times – and then writing reviews about how offensive it is to them? Right… Was that before or after it aroused you? Me thinks the reviewer doth protest too much. I’d just plain out call them on their hypocrisy. Don’t let me see your review of Chapter 10 (much like morrgys got on – what was it, Chapter 24?) – stating how offended you are. You’ve read all the way to Chapter 10. Please. You’re going to keep right on reading too, you little closet shipper.
Ignore, ignore, ignore these folks. If you ever plan to continue in your writing, going on to write your own characters & creations, you will face much tougher critics, and they will not be anonymous. Thicken up your skin, ignore these moronic reviews, and get back to doing what you’re doing so well; writing your story. Go for the one you want to write. I, for one, with the way you write a story very much look forward to it. 🙂
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I did read a Mormon’s version about vampires….it was called Twilight. 🙂
msbuffy, I have no problems with guest reviewers saying whatever they want. The first guest reviewer that blasted ADL said my story wasn’t realistic. I’m sorry, did I miss the part of the 21st century when vampires, werewolves, and fairies announced themselves to the general public?!?!?!?!?! Maybe I was sleeping…definitely spending way too much time reading other people’s fanfiction stories. 😉
The three guest reviews that have angered me was the unAmerican one for In HIs Honor. I still don’t get that one. Then there was the one for ADL that accused me of being one of “those people” that make sexual abuse and violence ok because I said Eric was going to “punish” Sookie. That prompted my rant in the middle of the story. The third was the person that called me a whore and said I deserved to know what it feels like to be assaulted and that when I met my maker, he would punish me. I really wished the asshole who wrote that had signed in….I would have said Eric Northman can be my maker anytime and that I’ll take any sort of punishment his fine ass or gracious plenty wants to dish out. 😉
I think I have an idea for a parody I want to write about guest reviews. MySecretOFanFiction, would you mind being a character in my parody? Of course, theladykt and msbuffy your presence is also requested for this story. If you ladies are interested, let me know. I promise, no one will be hurt.
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Lordy, they do walk among us. I cannot believe the site moderators didn’t step in when that one “review” was posted. I am so sorry that happened to you. No one deserves that. EVER. For you to be called a whore and told that you deserved to be assaulted and punished when you meet your maker is not a review. It has nothing to do with it or your writing. It’s a threat. This person is violating the terms of their membership and the people who run FF.net have the capability of tracing their IP address and banning them from the site. The one who told you that your story was unrealistic? Delusional. I didn’t know that supernatural creatures existed and had revealed themselves to public either, but I do have a sister as well as a neighbor I’ve always been a bit leery of… I’d leave that one a little note recommending inpatient psychiatric treatment & lots of meds. The other one who told you a story with a fictional character who joins the Army is un-American? WTF? Does this person know that the actor who plays said fictional character has portrayed several different military roles? It’s really not a stretch to use this plotline especially given current events. Un-American? Folks, you really need to lighten up!
I would be honored to be a part of your parody! I love them! How great they are to poke fun at the things we just take too seriously! Let me assure it takes far more than words from delusional strangers to hurt to me. I’ve got kids; I’ve got pretty thick skin!
Have a great weekend!
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LOL yes!
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Oh my god, yes!!! I would love to be a part of your parody. Please let me know so I can find it when you’re done. I’m giggling right now, in case you were wondering. What a lovely idea!
I can’t even imagine being called a whore by a complete stranger. What the hell is wrong with people? I do love your response and I too wish you had gotten a chance to respond. 🙂
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Reviews are always a bit painful, and critics do get worse. My skin is terribly thin (as you might’ve noticed from my post that started all this), and I have to be very careful reading reviews for my books. People don’t think twice about ripping it to shreds, no matter how long you spent writing, re-writing, editing, and polishing. Msbuffy is full of good advice. 🙂
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No, no, no! Never advice, only suggestions.
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I’ll take advice AND suggestions. Honestly, reader feedback is the best!!!
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I have to agree with everyone that has posted so far, this person is a coward and yes they do have the right to not read.
I think the most important thought though is you need to be true to yourself and to your characters as you see them in the world that you created. You are not going to please everyone all the time, but if you change your story how are you pleasing yourself. I mean, if you are using the fact that Bill giving Sookie his blood as a catalyst for possessive and dominate Eric, who are we to complain.
My main point, is stay true to yourself. Try to shake it off and keep to the story that you have created. There is someone that will always complain that a story they read is not the way they want it; there are some people who are just going to complain. Make the story that you want, keep true to your words, and more importantly keep true to yourself!!
Thank you for sharing that world and your words with us,
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You made many fine points. I think you’re right on all of them. I do write for myself, and I have many readers who happen to enjoy what I write…and of course there are going to be people who aren’t happy no matter what I do. While I struggle to accept that fact, I will focus on the love and encouragement I have gotten from the rest of you. So thank you for being the voice of goodness. 🙂
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Remove that review from the review history. Note in the author notes that anonymous negative/abusive reviews will be deleted. Or you could moderate the reviews so only those which have a point, be it good or bad, are posted. Which you probably do. 🙂
The cowards who continually attack each story with anonymous reviews are delusional they continually berate the fanfiction author because it isn’t written to their ideal Sookie/Eric/Bill/Pam etc. etc. Honestly, some readers are looking for a continuation of the original or strictly canon stories only. That & the fact they aren’t able to write a worthy piece appears to give them the idea that they should attack the work submitted for us to read.
There are always detractors. I know one bad review feels like it has the weight of 20 supportive & constructive reviews sometimes. The ability to continue writing no matter what is what makes you an author.
I know FanFiction is incredibly conservative & deletes anything above a Disney rating. My argument to them has always been they are quick to delete stories but refuse to moderate the reviewers submissions.
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That is such a good point! FF moderates stories and threatens to pull them/delete them, but anyone can post anonymous reviews. It’s a bit of a double standard, isn’t it? And yes, one bad review does hold more power than 20 good ones, but it has lots its power with this overwhelming outpouring of love and support. Thank you for being so wonderful and kind. I know I’m not alone in this frustration, and that makes everything SO much better. 🙂
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Yes, it’s a double standard. They use censorship; an abhorrent practice that negates the First Amendment. Is this stated anywhere in their agreement to which you must consent before you begin posting your stories? It leaves quite the bitter taste in my mouth and it’s one of the reasons I’ve been trying to break away from the site. Censorship is deplorable in any form. However, you have the right to allow/disallow a reviewer from posting the cowardly anonymous crap. Delete them. They always return to see if they’ve received a response. I’m not sure how you’re responding to them as most times it’s not possible. One bad review should NEVER hold more power than 1 or 20 good ones. It has as much power as you allow it. Don’t allow it any power.
Look, you’re a published author. You receive reviews regularly for your books, right? I’m guessing you’ve received reviews for your latest. Have all of these reviews been positive? Since you are not only one of my favorite writers, but have also become of my favorite people, I do hope they’ve all been favorable! As someone’s who’s been published, you know there’s no possible way to please all your readers. Now with FF readers, this is impossible! A recurring anonymous reviewer is much like a heckler in a live audience. You’ve done what you can to pacify this person and it’s done nothing. It’s time to ignore them and move on. You’re better than this. I know you want to please everyone, but to put it quite simply, it’s not your job. People are capable of only pleasing themselves; we are responsible for our own happiness much as we are responsible for our own misery. Let anonymous be miserable if the storyline isn’t going her way and forget about her. It’s not your job to educate the ignorant. You’ve written yet another terrific story. It’s yours and no one can take it from you. Move on. You’re an accomplished author, writer, and you have done this on your own. You have so much going for you, so much you must be proud of for yourself. Don’t let this this person who isn’t worthy waste one more minute of your time, attention, or thoughts.
You can do this. You’re stronger than this and far more courageous. Take away the power and she’ll disappear.
As always, I wish you all the best along with peace & laughter!
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Hot damn, that’s a lot of empowering goodness right there! 🙂 Thank you for pointing out my accomplishments AND praising me for my work. I’m always surprised anyone would want to read the stuff I’ve written, since I don’t really know what I’m doing (I’m working on that though…). I’m thrilled I’m one of your favorites, and flattered that you like me as a person too. Do you don’t live in Utah? If you do, we need to hang out!
Thank you for the love and for being such a champion of my own well being. Sometimes I don’t feel so accomplished, and it makes me all warm and fuzzy when someone notices. 🙂 ❤
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You’re very welcome! Nope, don’t live in Utah…they’d chase me from there with torches & pitchforks. If you ever find yourself in Southwest PA, let me know! We’ll hang out & laugh!
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LOL I’ve always wanted to visit PA, and when the Utahns finally chase me out with pitchforks and torches, I’ll head east. 🙂
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You’re more than welcome! Not sure why you’d want to visit PA though unless you’re into sports!
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Soooooooo not into sports. PA is beautiful in the summer (I’ve heard) and I’ve never been. Seems like good reasons to me!
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Ignore it and write your story, either she will still object ( and she can choose to stop reading) or she will be passified and the problem will be solved. Responding to her personally won’t work, she’ll just continue on her rant via email. Angie
Sent from my iPad
>
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Angie, that’s so true! I’m not sure I’d want her rant coming through a PM! I do write for myself, and I’m grateful you enjoy what I put up here…makes me feel like I’m doing something right. Thank you so much for your kindness!!
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I now only start my stories on FF and finish ONLY on WP – and this is the primary reason. I feel for you. As much as I want to say reviews like that don’t bother me – they still do – but not as much. Having a huge realization about 3-4 months ago changed it for me – I write first for me. Keep your story going – YOUR story and ignore the others.
I’ll leave you with one that still has me shaking my head and hopefully will get a laugh out of you: “I had hoped that you would of made the baby’s gender a boy instead. I’m somewhat disapointed :(”
Seriously – that’s what a guest wrote (I did a copy and paste – including the spelling error and frowny face.
Write for you!
Mags
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Mags, I’m seriously laughing out loud. Someone complained about a fictional baby gender? Good lord, that’s ridiculous. I can understand why you would start them on FF and then post primarily here. I love being able to moderate posts and know who it is that’s writing…no hiding here. 🙂 Thank you for your love and support. I do write for myself and I think I always will…it’s nice to be reminded of that though, so thank you!
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OMG! That was so funny! Some people’s kids…
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Some people have to put others down to build themselves up. This person\s is nothing but a bully. I know it’s easier said than done, but try to let it go. I am a firm believer that if you don’t like it, change the channel!! I love the HEA stories .of E/S. I didn’t get that in the books & it looks like I won’t be getting it from HBO, WP & FF is my chance for that and I’m grateful for those writers that give me that ending. Thank you for your wonderful stories. Sharon Kirk
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Thanks Sharon! I too love the HEA I never got in the books…and this is my way of getting what I want, by writing it myself. 🙂 I’m glad you’re with me, and that you like what I write, and you’re right about letting it go. It’s gonna happen one of these days, I promise. Thanks again! 🙂
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Ignore and delete any and all guest reviews. FFn’s allowing of guest reviews is one of the most author unfriendly things they’ve ever done. They’ve even taken away the power for authors to choose if they want to allow them or not (they used to). Between ignoring plagiarism reports, refusing to monitor/do anything about flamers/bullies, and deleting stories with sex, yet allowing excessive violence, language, and child abuse to remain are just a few of the reasons why I abandoned them back in summer of 2012. I may miss a “great story” but I can’t justify giving them my support and in turn revenue because of ad traffic. The only time I go there is to make plagiarism reports.
Between TWCS and Blogs, I’m never without something to read. 😀
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I thought it had changed! I just went to change my anonymous review setting and I can only choose to moderate, and I thought I was crazy thinking I could’ve turned them off. Hell, that didn’t make any sense, but I’m trying to thank you for making me feel like I haven’t lost my mind. 🙂 I’m SO tired of the FF restrictions, but I do love getting my story to a broader audience. It’s so hard to know what to do… Thanks for your love and support. You are always a source of goodness. 🙂
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That’s another thing that I can’t deal with about FF. Plagiarism is rampant throughout the site, yet they allow themselves to be bullied by these legal groups representing “wholesome Christians” (oh please, more closet readers!) so offended by the gratuitous sex that it must now be censored. Do these people no understand that the “M” rating means “Mature?” Set up your parental controls on all of your technology products so the kiddies won’t get see or read what they already know. Not to mention, the kids can teach you how to do this! Back to the plagiarism, the fine work and great amount of time that many of the wonderful writers spent on the stories they wrote long ago have been pillaged so many times I’ve lost count. This is criminal and it’s shows a lack of not only talent, but honor and character. It’s shameful behavior, and where is the moderating for this? Nowhere! It’s left strictly up to us, the readers, to report this, and we shouldn’t have to be guardians of the site.
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It’s shocking to think plagiarism happens so often. I could never take credit for someone else’s work! It IS shameful and I hope like hell no one ever steals from me…
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You could always do an authors note smack dab in the middle of the chapter in all caps, lol. I love all your stories, and this person is an idiot. Try not to let it bother you too much. FF.net pretty much sucks now. I’ve got so many blogs going into my inbox because I’d much rather follow my favorite authors on blogs than see them struggle not to get cut on FF.
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I’m honored to be one of your favorites that you follow. It’s so wonderful to know that. 🙂 BTW, I’m laughing about an author note in the middle of the chapter. Good times. 🙂 Thank you so much for your love and support and all your reviews. I hope you know how much I appreciate them!
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If the person is leaving feedback as annon then don’t give them credence. If they can’t be bothered to sign in or sign up they don’t deserve your time and worry. I wouldn’t even try to explain to them. Keep up the good work.
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Thank you! I hope you know how much I appreciate your comment and I am certainly trying my best to ignore them. 🙂
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you know if they leave a review and they are anonymous then I would not worry about it. They really don’t deserve your time especially if its critical. Hit delete….You will be so much better off. Truely you can’t worry about what you cannot fix….I read A LOT on my phone. I may leave a comment so I don’t have to sign in again. Its never critical of the writer. But I usually put bbrock525. I don’t expect a response.
Besides you have more important things to do…like write more chapters! lol
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I’m always writing more chapters/stories. 🙂 You’re right, of course…and I’m sad that ff still allows anonymous reviews. What purpose does it serve? None. I get plenty of guest reviews with usernames at the beginning of the comment so I know who’s reviewing. I need to let it go and get on with things… like now. thanks for the love!
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You are most welcome…happy writing!
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very happy writing. 🙂
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Keep true to your writing vision. You can take some advice if it adds to the storytelling of that vision. But you can not write to cater to a few disgrundled readers, it would destroy the story you intended to write. Your true fans know that at heart this is a E/S story. On a personal note, I have been reading on the road lately. So, I have not been able to review as often as I would like to. Just know I am out there ‘liking’ you.
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Aww, thanks! Reading on the road is hard, and I never expect anyone to review! I’m happy to know you’re out there reading and liking it though. I’m going to stick with what I got, unless, like you said, I find something helpful in a comment. Like the fairy necklace and other details I’ve written in because they’re so damn good! Thank you again. 🙂
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My feelings about guest reviews are fairly simple …. if they won’t own their words then you don’t own their words ….. but you should be proud of the fact that your words have evoked such emotion from them … 🙂
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Such a good philosophy! I always want a strong emotional reaction from my readers…but I strive for happy ones, not frustrated ones. 🙂 Thanks for sharing the love with me!!
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I have been in this situation more times than I can count. It’s incredibly frustrating to know that you’ve responded the only way you can and the reader STILL isn’t getting it. That’s part of the reason I’ve stopped posting on Fanfiction.net.
The exposure it got me was great but all of the changes there are more about protecting the readers than the authors, and I’m not here to be verbally abused by someone who doesn’t even have the courage to sign their name to their idiocy. Some readers just feel oddly entitled to treat authors poorly or demand that a story go a certain way. It’s absolutely true that you can’t please everyone, but the readers that truly enjoy and appreciate your stories will stick with you through the ups and downs. I know this from experience as well.
I got an anonymous review last week that I immediately deleted, telling me that I write nothing but smut that degrades women. That’s an obvious case of someone reading only what they want to read of a story. They took in only the things they wanted to take away from a story and forgot the rest. It sounds like you’re suffering the same fool.
Ultimately, you’ve done all you can to appease this reader. Their inability to comprehend what you’ve said isn’t your problem. It’s incredibly frustrating, but my advice is to take a step back and a deep breath. It’s too easy to let one person derail your work with their fuckery, and you deserve better than that. This too, shall pass.
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I cannot believe someone would actually complain about your ‘smut.’ You write pure hotness, and I’ve never noticed a single twinge of degradation to women in any of your stories. I just want to reach through my computer and slap them…if only I could. 🙂
I really do want to please everyone, despite how impossible it is, and I know I need to let it go, so that’s what I’m doing. Thank you for reminding me of that. I’m grateful for you kindness. 🙂
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You’re welcome. You’re a fantastic writer. It bothers me when I see great talent get torn down by negative fools.
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I can’t tell you how much that means to me. Your writing is so good, it’s intimidating! Honestly, I feel like I dedicate a fair amount of time to writing and then I look at your stuff and I’m like, Holy Shit! How does she have time to sleep/eat/bathe/read? You’re amazing, and I’m in awe. That’s all. 🙂
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Dear O, some people can’t be pleased. It is as simple as that. Write for yourself, (and me ;)) stay true to your own vision. You don’t owe anyone, especially someone who does not have the common courtesy to sign in with a way for you to address them personally. Life is to short to be trying to please people who can’t be pleases. Your true fans love your stories and you just the way you are. patsy
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Thank you my dearest Patsy. 🙂 I always write for myself…and you. What worries me is when my readers no longer share my vision of what should happen next. In my brain, this story only has one path, but of course, you all probably come up with a thousand different ways it could go. I just hope that I continue to write things that people want to read, especially my faithful following that have been so lovely for all these years (and the new ones who love me too). Thank you so much for being so supportive and loving. I do appreciate it! 🙂
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Maybe the reader can’t read!!!! If the reader wrote their self maybe they would not write such things.
Linda
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That’s so true! I had no idea how much of an impact reviews could have until I started writing…but I always left good ones, so I’m hoping I only put smiles on faces, not frowns. 🙂 Thanks for the love. 🙂
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Because you’re human – one with a heart, a brain and feelings. Like some of the comments above – you can’t please everyone and some people just don’t know when to keep their mouths shut. They get a kick out of spewing hate and bad vibes. It’s very tempting to abandon FF.net as some of the readers it attracts are just poisonous. Just remember – we love your writing and think you do a great job. It’s your story, your ideas and your choice. This person has the choice to just fcuk off!
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Right you are! What I don’t understand is why she just didn’t stop reading the first time she threatened to…some people baffle me. I’m glad YOU love what I do, and took the time to tell me…it is so encouraging to know the time I spend creating these stories isn’t wasted. Thank you for that!
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There’s the moderate option on ff.net which I don’t like as much as the option to block anon reviewers (seeing how FF net removed the latter from our profile settings just goes to show they care about attracting reader and not writer traffic to the site). So moderate. It’s your absolute right. If a reviewer is unfair to your work and leaves no way for you to address him/her directly, it only serves well not to allow the comment to be published along with the rest of the valid reviews. If the guest wishes to be heard for real, he/she will take time to create a profile and sign the review. I honestly think your anon reader has a very short patience fuse and was just venting without even thinking clearly. Unfortunately there are a lot of readers like that, seeking instant gratification, and any delay in what they want to read irritates them. They don’t understand that when you put so much time and effort into developing a good story, you almost expect the comments will also be written with at least some sort of consideration to your efforts. That’s not always the case. I have received my share of reviews that bugged the hell out of me. At first I would get upset and defensive and try to find a way to respond and “clear the air”. 24 hours later I’d realize I didn’t really care. So now I always give myself at least a day or two before going back to the review(er). I truly feel better and, having clamed down, decide if I should waste more of my energy on the matter. Although we all may react differently in a similar situation, I’d say the best thing you can do distract yourself. Reread one of your favorite fanfcis. Have a glass of wine. Say FUCKYOU aloud. And don’t sweat it too much. The mentality of a fanfic addict your anon reviewer has probably means she will not find the perfect story no matter how much she reads because she can never be satisfied. You, on the other hand, get what she can never have – that special feeling when you post the next chapter, knowing fully well you’ve done your best. As always. And that feeling, my dear, is the best cure.
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Oh my god, that is brilliant, and kind, and lovely. Thank you. Perhaps you’re right about her not ever finding the story she really wants…some people are impossible to please, and as I have noticed time and time again, there’s nothing I can do to make them happy. I won’t feel guilty moderating, and I will be sure to delete the ridiculous ones straight away.
I processed the first review pretty quickly, dismissing it and moving on. But the second one (after I explained a bit in my AN) really frustrated me. I love when my readers give me ideas…I’ve gotten a lot of REALLY good ones! 😉 But sharing ideas is not the same as complaining. I will practice your steps to moving on. I think I’ll be a better person for it! 🙂
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As usual I’m late to the party. Lol! Everyone has already said what I would have. I’ll only add this…as much as you would like to please everyone it’s just not possible (no matter how close you come to doing just that) especially when you have people who clearly don’t comprehend well to begin with. You know we love you and all of those magnificent words you produce. You make magic happen.
I thank you for that and please please keep it coming. 😉
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Oh Loftin, leave it to you to make my heart jump a beat. I don’t know what I’d do without you and your kind, loving words. Makes what I do seem worthwhile. 🙂
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Wow – it sure is easy to cast stones when hiding behind a mask. Personally, I like a little conflict – especially when you have (on several occasions) assured us – the readers – that Bill is not the endgame. If this anonymous reader had ever read any of your works they would know you heartily dislike Bill and that relationship is not going to happen! This person probably never read your a/n at all! Stick with what you do best and don’t worry – haters gonna hate! 😉
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Thanks Padore! I like a little conflict too, and heartily hate Bill’s guts like no other. You’re right. If she’d read my other stuff, or if she’d bothered to read my AN, she would’ve chilled out and had a little faith in me. Thank YOU for always having faith in me. I love you guys!!
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I would tell the “Guest” on FF.net to suck your left tit! You don’t owe her any explanation. This is your story to write as you please. Trolls will be trolls, it’s best just to ignore them.
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LOL just the left one? I guess I’d rather take that than being harassed and listen to whining. 🙂 Thanks for making me laugh. I do love hearing good stuff from you all!
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Just wanted to add my support to all the wonderful comments you have already received. Logically, I think we all know it is not possible to please everyone. At the same time, it is always difficult to hear when others do not like something that is “near and dear” to us. That said – it is especially difficult to please someone when they don’t even read and process what is actually there!!! Please don’t become discouraged. There are SO many of us that truly appreciate you sharing your talent and creativity with us. Thanks!!
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Thank you so much!! It is really hard for me to accept I can’t please everyone, but you sure as hell are making me see things in a different light. Knowing the kind of support and love I have FAR outweighs some stupid anonymous review. So thank you for that, it’s amazing!
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Hi,
I just spent a few minutes reading all of the thoughtful, loving, and DESERVED positive feedback you’ve received in response to your note.
I am not a writer, although I am an aspiring visual artist. Painting & drawing give me joy, frustration, satisfaction, & the experience of focusing closely on very hard work. I suspect writing fiction is even harder.
So I first say Bravo for continuing to do something that is difficult & doing it well.
Now on to “Guest” (rude guest):
I suspect Guest behaves badly in lots of other arenas, and doesn’t really want a dialogue- just an audience. Fires starve in the absence of fuel and oxygen. Ceasing your replies & deleting Guest’s comments immediately is just efficient firefighting! It isn’t dishonest to me- anyone reading the stories sees the direction of them and has Guest’s number by now.
Guest sounds like one of those female villains in soap operas- they treat others badly, do not think of others’ points of view with any empathy, and devote endless episode time to ruminating on how they themselves are tragic victims. Great soap staple- really unpleasant in real life.
Guest has developed a dubious talent of getting under others’ skin.
Please consider deleting those messages and not reading them! That way you will stop nurturing that nasty habit of Guest’s, give yourself a much deserved break from negativity which is devoid of useful content, and have more peace in your life in general.
Keep up the good work, and hope you can enjoy spring and that you perform a successful “Guestectomy” soon!
By the way, success to me in this case would be your being fine with flicking those posts of like swatting a fly & forgetting it, even if she posts forever. Flyswatters are cheap!
Regards!
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Wow! That was amazing! I think writing and creating art are very much the same. It’s so difficult to put a little piece of your heart in each piece only to have someone tear it down (or boost it up, which makes that piece of your heart grow!). I can understand comments about my writing being a bit dodgy at times, because it is. I’m still learning this stuff! But Guest leaving complainy/whiny comments doesn’t serve any purpose but to hear themselves type.
Thank you SO much for flattering me and sharing the love with me. You are amazingly kind, and I honestly don’t know where I would be without the love from my readers. I’m so happy that I bring some kind of joy to your life, because it means I’m doing something right. Thank you so much!
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Don’t fret my sweets. If guest reviewer is too gutless to log on and have a decent conversation you should not worry too much. Think of all of who love you and your work and faithfully support what a wonderful job you do – fo free. We love you and your brilliant mind!
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Thank you so much!! I love you all too! I’ll tell you what, there’s nothing like a huge outpouring of support to get me to forget one lame review…so thank you for that. I appreciate it so much! 🙂
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Personally I wouldn’t let it bother you. Those who just complain are going to regardless, and those of us who truly like to read a story and wait to see where the writer is taking us are the ones you should listen to, but only in so much as that it is for positive feedback for you, not to dictate where you should go with your story. I personally loved the drama created by the “gift” and once we had EPOV it all made sense. So I say…IGNORE the grumpy booty and have a good time writing…you know we are here for you!
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Thank you! I am always happy to listen to feedback, and if you have ideas for a story, I’m always ready to hear it. The thing that bothered me so much was that she was complaining about stuff she didn’t need to worry about, I even tried to reassure her, but it didn’t work! I’m focusing on you and your love and I’m going to ignore the hell out of her. Thanks so much for your support!!
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I just got this e-mail, very late, but I’m throwing in my two cents. You can’t please all of the people all of the time and you should stop trying! Write your story to suit you and no one else!! So what if you have one less fan. I would (I would hope since I haven’t published anything) skip over the guest reviews from now on and concentrate on the positive reviews from the your loyal followers of which I’m sure you have many since you are such a wonderful writer. 🙂
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Aww, shucks, you’re just too nice! 🙂 You’re right, and I’ve been making a concerted effort to ignore negative guest posts…mostly because I can’t reply to them. I’ve gotten slammed with negative reviews before, and while they were difficult to read, at least the person put their name on it, so I could have a dialogue with them. That’s the part that really bothers me. FFnet doesn’t allow authors to block anonymous reviews anymore, so they show up in my inbox whether I want them to or not. They’re hard to ignore, but I’m trying my best to focus on all the love from you guys instead. 🙂 Thank you again for your two cents, it was absolutely lovely to read.
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