So, what’s the difference between scaring me as a Reader versus as a Reviewer, heck even as an Editor? Don’t I read the same way no matter the reason?
Nope, I read differently under each title. As an editor, I’m picking a story apart for any question or moment that makes me pause. I question everything. When it’s a book I’m reviewing I judge how well it’s been written, how it handles the genre. How I react to the story. Reader? My brain turns off and I just read without worry or thought.
Again, how then does scaring me as a reviewer differ?
Because I do read differently when I’m reviewing. I’m on the lookout for emotional reactions – to the point I hold back my emotions waiting for something to grab me. If you bridge that wall then I know you have written something well…have captured the emotional connection to your audience. Consider it a higher response level. (Psst…as an editor that level is even higher).
I find pleasure in reviewing. I treasure the relationships that have developed between me and the authors who trust me with their work. But I don’t do this for pleasure. I do this because I’m happy…and wanting…to help you discover these same authors and their works. It’s a whole other mindset, one I take seriously.
If you can enlist an emotional reaction from me know it’s a dang strong one. Because as I said before – I’m not normally scared when I read. I also don’t cry when I read. If either of these emotions spring out of me…
Yeah, you scared me.