Book reviews, both reader reviews and professional reviews, are the lifeblood of authors.
Reader reviews on sites like Amazon Books and GoodReads provide other readers with impressions about the book: Did the reviewer like the book or not? These reviews are vitally important – especially on Amazon, where my books average 4.4 stars out of 5 stars.
Professional reviews, on the other hand, are critical assessments written by reviewers who follow guidelines such as:
- A basic summary of the book.
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of the book?
- Is it appropriate for the intended audience?
- Are the characters well-developed?
- Is the plot or storyline engaging?
The Historical Novel Society recently reviewed Lone Tree Claim: On the Dakota Frontier. You can find the review, written by Janice Derr, in the November 2024 issue of the Historical Novels Review magazine. The Society describes itself as a community of historical fiction lovers. Members include established and yet to be published authors, readers and publishers.
After summarizing the plot and analyzing the characters, Derr wrote:
Katie is tested repeatedly by nature and the constant dangerous tension between sheepherders and cattle ranchers, but nothing dampens her determination. The novel is full of adventure and moves along at a quick pace. There is a violent scene that some readers may find triggering, but overall, the book is warm and uplifting. Fans of found family stories and strong female characters will enjoy this one.
Thank you to Ms. Derr and the Historical Novel Society for reviewing Lone Tree Claim. I’m proud that the publication included my novel in the magazine’s reviews.