Reviewer: Just the facts, please

Yesterday I talked as a reader and what suspended facts were to me. As a reviewer, I’m pickier. Sounds like I’m splitting hairs? Maybe. Remember one way I’m reading just for me, the other is for others. Because I don’t mind a skipped fact or more doesn’t mean everyone else will.

My purpose is to give an opinion which includes the accuracy of facts – as I know them or suspect – and how they work or don’t. Some may call it a warning, I don’t know. Warning sounds negative, but I guess it really is a warning – preparation for the readers on what to expect. Now this will sound all ego but maybe, in a sense paving the road you want your reader to travel? Like a friend who tells their friends about a book…a different POV trailer?

Again, though, you need to prove why you’re bending or changing the facts.

Don’t make it a weak writing excuse – something you just couldn’t figure out how to use (the fact) so you fudged it.

Remember you know why you’re bending, but you won’t be there to tell the readers. Make sure you’re clear and comfortable with your choice.