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Beware of generic reviews

by seobro
3 replies
Most of us know the power in reviews. They help us move merchandise in amazon. However, there is a dark side that many of you do not see. People are paying reviewers. However, this is not for positive reviews. It is for negative ones. When doing a free book promo... Beware of generic reviews.

Typical five star review.
I love this on going saga. Claire is quite a character, and so is jane. However, I hate her husband, as he is a pain. Jane reminds me of me. She is going to meet anther guy. However, I will not spoil it for you. Get ready for a wild ride when you buy this one.


Typical one star review.
BOOK, if we can call it that, was very poor. Writing quality was below average. Grammatical structure of sentences was wrong. Don't waste your money.

Notice that the one star review can apply to any book and not just yours. Typically, the cut and paste generic review appears seconds after the person "BOUGHT" your free book and the damage is massive. All it takes is a few one stars to kill sales and this I speak from experience.

Most of these one stars are very generic. Also, they come during the free book promo. Rival authors are ganging up on you.
#beware #generic #reviews
  • Profile picture of the author JohnMcCabe
    You say "beware of generic reviews", but absent some compelling evidence for removal, there's not much you can do about them.

    Unless you're trying to scare would-be authors away even before they publish? [tongue placed firmly in cheek]

    Spend your "worry time" on things you have some control over.
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    • Profile picture of the author MissTerraK
      While I see why you are concerned, I have to agree with John here.

      It is no different from any other business on the planet. People will like it, some won't.

      People who live life with chips on their shoulders are going to belittle no matter what.

      Some people are bullies and take extreme joy in trying to hurt others.

      It happens and there isn't a thing you can do about it. By spending time mulling it over and worrying about it, however, you are wasting good time on bad rubbish and time that you could actually be productive with, and gaining something by.

      How about focusing on your next book and pouring your energy into that instead. Determine to make your next one even better, therefore proving them wrong in an indirect but effective way.

      And don't forget the power of persuasion from your true fans and the intelligence of potential customers. They are readers after all and can pick up true thoughts conveyed through the writing of positive reviews with the emotions of excitement, etc. just as they sense the noncommittal dull generic low reviews.

      It may be hard at first as you as an author may feel about your book as though it is your baby and therefore have a large emotional attachment to it. But you do recognize the low reviews for what they are, so just don't take them too seriously. It will get easier with time.

      Success to you!

      Terra
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  • Profile picture of the author rdxsumo
    I dont know if you read this story about seo companies fined over fake reviews. Many of the ORM firms are doing this and yet still goes on.
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    Though to share some tips about buying cheap shoes this holiday season - if you like shopping :)
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