What If No One Likes Your Book

[@aperson7007]

My rule of thumb is if someone loves your least favorite book, there will be someone who likes yours!

[@IvoryTempestCandleOfStories]

Absolute genius!

[@cferracini]

There are people who like Twilight and 50 shades of grey and books worse than those. So no way there isn't at least a person to enjoy any of my stories 😂

[@aperson7007]

@@cferracini if someone likes Colleen Hoover books, mine won’t be so bad lol

[@mxnstrs]

I actually really needed this - thank you so much!

[@windangel7720]

@@aperson7007 If you enjoy Mystery Science Theater quality movies, you might enjoy these books. Amusing as they are, they're extremely disheartening for those who would like to see a higher quality of romance publications.

[@MichaelButchin]

My first novel only garnered twenty-something reviews on Amazon. Most of them were rated respectably, but I got my share of five- and one-star reviews, but my favorite review was a three-star review in which the reviewer took the time to explain what worked for her, and what didn't, and why. AND gave me the best compliment on that book ever.

[@Lurowly]

Me watching Jenna's video imagining I actually wrote a book and not just having nothing but ideas bouncing around in my head every day

[@memory_treez]

Real 😭

[@mxnstrs]

Shut Up and Write The Book! 🤣 (Same though! I did start reading Jenna's "SU&WtB" and it's been a huge help so far, and I'm only a few chapters in!)

[@kohinattosru8587]

You can always try to write a short story and see if writting will be fun

[@dariapetrushenko1293]

"But, Jenna, what if my book is just boring and I'm the only one who doesn't notice it?!" (That will be my personal fear when I finish it at last.)

[@gasmonkey1000]

I get a bit of that

[@kohinattosru8587]

It may sound cruel, but... you're not that special XD If you like it, there for sure will be at least one person among 7 bilion people with similar taste XD

[@LaloMacKenzie]

Get some honest critique partners and ask them directly

[@EXCYTL]

if you are seriously worried about that, ive heard a large amount of people saying that some of the Maze Runner books were a bit boring, and that book series sold INCREDIBLY well so dont worry!

[@auctoris1536]

This is great to hear! I’ve been worried my work isn’t good, because not one of my beta readers finishes it, even though they say it’s really good… and then as I was typing this I realized I’m asking my friends to read it and they all have busy lives, instead of an actual beta reader lmao so sometimes the proper channels are also important.

[@snarkdragon]

I have the same problem. About halfway through my chapters, everyone of my friends who I asked to give me some feedback, had their lives get real busy. Perfectly understandable. But, it does now feel like I'm flying blind here.

[@Suzanne_sf]

@@snarkdragon So true. One of my friends has started working like 80 hour weeks. He even started writing after reading my writing, so I think I inspired him to write. Now, he hardly has any time to say hi, he's so busy. I think a lot of us are flying blind which is why we watch her channel for help.

[@trinaq]

Thanks for the timely advice, Jenna. No matter what you do, it's impossible to please EVERYONE, and you're always going to find detractors of your work. But that's alright, since I mostly write for myself, first and foremost, and write the novel that I personally would want to read. 📝📖

[@Suzanne_sf]

I think you have to write for yourself first, because then at least you like it. I think that's important.

[@gabrielle4821]

Right?! I write for myself too and when get to thinking “no one will like it” I just have tocounter with “not no one because I’LL always love it”I think that’s the best way to write.

[@Suzanne_sf]

@@gabrielle4821 that's a healthy way to put it! :)

[@Suzanne_sf]

@@gabrielle4821 Exactly!

[@illiengalene2285]

I am currently 20% with my debut novel. This really boosted me again.

[@gabrielle4821]

Yay! 🎉 Great job!

[@iona.wayland]

This is perfectly timed (per usual) and has fabulous advice!

[@JennaMoreci]

Happy to help :D

[@tsifirakiehl4250]

I think it’s impossible to write something that absolutely no one will like. Statistically, no matter what you write, someone out there will like it. Even really bad books have their fans. Obviously try to write the best story you can, but even if your story is legitimately bad, it’s still going to be someone’s cup of tea.

[@tsifirakiehl4250]

And just as I comment this, Jenna says pretty much exactly that. Guess that’s on me for commenting before the video’s over.

[@samc1nonli]

Cheers😊

[@otherworldlyfiction]

I'm worried my book will be too disturbing or messed up, but then you brought up THAT scene from IT. I started this video with knots in my stomach, and then was oddly comforted by the end.

[@bigdumb1]

There is a lot of demand for disturbing subject matter. A lot of messed up things happen in this world, and often people turn to fiction to process their emotions about it. There is an entire genre that revolves around uncomfortable and taboo topics - transgressive fiction. Fight Club is one example of a work in this genre, as is Trainspotting... both turned into extremely popular and well reviewed movies.

[@when2wordscollide]

Thank you for makng this video. I was really allowing the inscurity to get between me and my writing which is silly as I'm still in my first draft and research stage

[@snarkdragon]

I am constantly at war with the voice in my head screaming at me that my story is a stupid idea, and I'm a moron for pursuing it. But, I've been at it for the last 5 years, so... there's that.

[@zyvinlawdome7081]

I can relate. How are you feeling now?

[@Ollidor]

Clicked for the dog, stayed for the good advice (And the dog)

[@andeeharry]

I tell people all the time. If they don't like this one, they will like the next. There is always something out there for someone and even the worst things work somehow. Like, look at the book called 'Meow' I am not sure if you heard of it, but it just has 38 pages with the word 'meow' on it and it is selling like hot cakes. That's the thing with anything, you never know what works until you try.

[@Free_Range_Female]

Get out of my head! -- On second thought, stay in there. Maybe you can fix some stuff.

[@axelwulf6220]

My response to haters: "I didn't write it for you..."

[@Lilitha11]

Being worried can be a good sign, because it shows you are aware enough to realize writing is difficult. If you don't have a care at all, you may be going in a bit naive.

[@linus1703]

Just as a reader but I've seen the main reason books get bad reviews because they were marketed poorly, people read it thinking it was a romance but it wasn't or it said it was light hearted but was dark AF. Probably confirmation bias but I've seen it a lot where the reviewer clearly expected something different. (Also sometimes these terrible reviews have made me buy the book)

[@blusskyy]

I strongly believe that, in order to be better at writing, you have to take criticism with the HUMBLEST approach you can muster. I understand sometimes we love what we write and criticism feels like people are bullying your child (our writings are, in a way, our kids), but seeing as we are writing for the literal world to read (unless, of course, you're writing for you, but that doesn't need critics or beta readers), some people will absolutely love whatever you write, and others will absolutely hate it. However, the fine line is there: you have to hone your skills, and that's why a beta reader should be someone who can give you actual good feedback. But, yeah, some will love it, some will hate it. Still, write, and write some more. Awesome video!

[@sabastianspencer]

a much needed video, thank you Jenna

[@bhsprinkle]

Thank you so much for encouraging the writing community from such an experienced viewpoint. You've always been so helpful with these videos and have changed things for me. You're one of the first Authortubers I've watched back in 2018.

[@BodhSonavane-1612Author]

Great video to get motivated

[@RFEM520]

Reminds me of the conversation between J. Michael Straczynski and Harlan Ellison.

[@yapdog]

I'm a good writer... I just failed at convincing others of that fact😞

[@connorking984]

Just keep writing and have fun with it, writing is something that will bring you comfort for your whole life and you'll keep getting better and doing what you like with words. Don't think about success as the be all end all that you must reach whether fast or slow, maybe you never hit it big so to speak, and that's okay. Don't stress too much, but that can be hard can't it? Good luck!

[@katsuamedama]

Thank you! Somehow you always inspire me to keep writing

[@Voltronkun]

Thanks Jenna!

[@dalton6173]

I'm glad that you know about homelander! 😅 Also I'm sorry that you know about homelander...

[@dalton6173]

He filled her, emptied himself into her, she felt his warmth spread through her.

[@Laiaboveyoga]

I really needed this, Jenna. Thank you 💛🙏🏾

[@windangel7720]

It's not possible to write a book everyone will love. Fifty Shades isn't the only example- remember the Bridgerton novels got their own Netflix series. I have to admit they're very entertaining and I do read them but they are some of the most poorly researched, anachronistic, sloppily written romances out there. I actually stopped writing for a while after reading them because I didn't feel like throwing my heart into my art. Why should I put in effort if that is what makes the money? I couldn't bring myself to write what I would consider junk, so I stopped writing until the bug bit me again.

[@connorking984]

I've never read the books and that's certainly not the review I need to start, funny anecdote though hah

[@catiehall416]

Another great video, Jenna ❤

[@ahsokatano22]

I definitely needed this 😅 thanks Jenna!

[@connorking984]

I can't help but feel lucky in the sense that my writing is basically just my way of getting some of the silly ideas I have out of my head. I am a programmer and while the "art" I make is very cool to me it's not exactly free form work. I use my writing as a boiling pot to put together a story I like and think is fun and I'm not worried about whether people like it because... I don't need them to like it. When I write I'm writing for me, which is what people always say but the reality is it's impossible to not consider others when your work is your livelihood. My programming needs to be good for me and for potential buyers, I have a standard I more or less have to reach or throw away a ton of work and time. My writing can be as bad or as nonsensical as I like and it's okay because it was never for anything to begin with. If one day I make some passive income off the book(s) then great, if not, then I hold myself to my own standards and keep trying. That's the end of all of this isn't it? Keep trying and write the best stuff you can and have faith, can't force success but you can sure try. Good luck all! (And thanks for reading (; )

[@Arcadelife1]

If nobody likes your book, chances are you will never know.

[@dexterpoindexter3583]

'Cause millions of sales and no bad reviews can be deceptive. -- 🙄 😆

[@yapdog]

No, I actually *_do_* know. Unfortunately 😞

[@bananian]

I bet the guy who wrote empress Theresa knew lol.

[@KatAdVictoriam]

Likely. They put it down and you'll never get feedback or a review that says so. Most folks dnf and move on. I never got any reviews on my first book. I assumed everyone who read even one page hated it and dnf'd.

[@nicholasczech6973]

As a writer in hopes of being published soon with his first debut novel within Traditional Epic Fantasy. One thing i have learned is they call it the bloody pen for a reason. Anything you think is boring, pertains little to the story or completely irrelevant…just cut it. Readers are smart and enjoy figuring out things. Never hold the hand or explain what a tree is so to speak, we get it. Over description is one sure way in destroying a Great promising tale. The old saying, “sometimes you have to kill your darlings.” Well it is quite true. Never give up in writing as well. It is hard for a reason and only few ever become household names and Remember. There is always something to write about.

[@Sarixis]

Just started sharing the part about the different kinds of books to other creative friends since I think it's applicable beyond book writing. Non creatives think you need hard drugs to come up with some of the truly batshit ideas and it shows how much they underestimate the way human creativity can come up with insane things that audiences surprisingly want.

[@samc1nonli]

At this point, my characters are pissed at me for taking so long to write them. It sounds crazy but it is that indeed. Thanks again for your encouragement.❤❤❤ shut up and write the book indeed

[@1965917]

I've had 4 close family members agree to read my book. They've all read the first chapter, declared it great and then never picked it up again. Are they just humoring me?

[@riverriver9677]

Did they specify WHY the first chapter was great and they haven't make time to continue to the next chapters? If not, they may be humouring you. See, while close family members are a viable option, their critique can be ruined by their own biases for you (i.e. sugarcoating their critique out of the fear of hurting you or out of the fact that you, a close family member, wrote the book at all, etc.). Moreover, they can simply have too much going on in their life to commit to finishing a book in order to provide any critique. On the other hand, strangers are able to be much more balanced in critiquing your works. They most likely volunteer to help you themselves, which means they may be able to deliver on their offer and your request in due time. Moreover, communication between you and them is more cordial (and maybe preferrable) than between you and your close relatives. Therefore, it's best to search for more volunteering beta readers to help with your work. There are many writing communities online, so you should be able to locate one soon!

[@KatAdVictoriam]

At least your family read even a little. Mine said they were interested but never read it! 😅They're likely humoring you, truth be told. I wouldn't recommend garnering viable critique from friends or family. You need people who read in your genre to give opinions without personal bias. It's hard to get/find but it's worth it if you want to become a better writer.

[@1965917]

@@riverriver9677 I get that, I have done some paid beta reading services in the past. They've all been incredibly complimentary, which makes me worry they are also just telling me what I want to hear! I did ask one of my family why they stopped reading and the answer was "lack of time to read". 🙁

[@johnchastain7890]

I've read some bestselling stinkeroos that have even spawned series(es) and movies! That gives me hope. 😉

[@Thagomizer]

Hell yeah, Carlton Mellick III! I haven't read The Haunted Vagina from start to finish, but I've enjoyed a lot of his shorter fiction. Bizarro can be a lot of fun.

[@prathameshrana2099]

Can you do a video where you show your process of writing a good character.

[@lunawolf6288]

That’s what am I scared 😳 off

[@KronoDeathwing]

I wrote 7 books but haven't published one because of this fear

[@skydecay69]

Us moment have full idea , every scene on script but only person who knows it is my MS office with privacy lock on it T_T

[@colonelquack]

Staying with your channel way in advance of Nanowrimo. That TWILIGHT HAS A FANFIC THAT GOT A MOVIE SERIES. So maybe I can't write Tolkien, but I bet I can write trash. It's a start, right? ...right?

[@mxnstrs]

If you have the time, can you make a video (if you haven't already) on choosing between 1st person POV and 3rd person POV? I want to write 3rd but there are times where I feel like it might be better in 1st person (especially since it seems to be trending right now)

[@writethepath8354]

*breathe

[@matthewchapman6309]

Peace ✌🏼

[@treefrog101]

...I'm gonna Google about a woman and a door. What the heck? ...yeah, okay. My story isn't that weird... 😂

[@QuanticDreamer]

Which book is it? I'm curious.

[@otherworldlyfiction]

@@QuanticDreamer I'm guessing the book referred to is Unhinged. Jessethereader did a review on it not too long ago.

[@5Gburn]

The possibility of being canceled is a great reason to stay off social media. Not to mention mental health attrition and less time for writing, editing, and all the other decisions authors must make. There are other ways to cultivate a readership.

[@ezekiellyngdoh6210]

Lord of the mysteries is peak novel . Do read it!!

[@KatAdVictoriam]

It's tough though when no one will tell you that your book is bad, meh, or ok. No feedback or reviews is the worst fate of all. Especially when it got a fair amount of reads. I'd rather the book get one stars than silence. I am crossing my fingers that my next published work gets something.

[@mayahrobinson2024]

But how do you deal with blunt constructive criticism?

[@johnglynhughes4239]

Write for yourself, for the love of writing. Anything else is more.

[@silverknight1966]

I only had 1 review on my book. It is 5 stars, but only one review. I'd feel better with 30 reviews and a 3 star average.

[@davidmauriciogutierrezespi5244]

I'm sorry, a child WHAT?

[@zyvinlawdome7081]

Hello, ma'am. I started a novel in Royal Road and I'm a bit confused. I get views for my chapters but I have no response, despite telling that I'm A-okay to throw at me. What to do, ma'am?

[@twilight_lupinesilva4691]

How does she keep reading our minds...?

[@ederbigger6397]

8:39 I’m not sure who she’s referring to here if anyone knows

[@rcmaze8400]

Steven King "It"

[@ChrisDreher]

​@rcmaze8400 is correct. I'll only add that years later, King stated he regretted writing that scene.

[@journey9411]

Damn, maybe i should write a bad book just to hone my craft. 👀 It might become a cult classic.

[@Tishisaurus]

I'm sorry there's a book about what now...?

[@robertagu5533]

Its easier LITERALLY to make it big in Hollywood as a brand new actor then as a writer. With a fail rate of round 90 to 95% percent OR MORE as ive read, heard an seen... So... If its made it to the point where people are PROFESSIONALLY looking it over and seriously considering publishing your then doing better then MOST already. Even today so odds are THIS will just be i most writer's heads. As while its impossible to please EVERYONE its ALSO not possible to usually offend an make enemies of LITERALLY everyone else either.. unless ONE REALLY works at it

[@Josh3B]

Just shrug and write another one.

[@codyjohnson9781]

I published my first work about 2 months called Coming Home by Cody Johnson, and my friends and family all said it was good, even after I asked for criticism, so I would assume it's good.

[@krzysztofkowalski4949]

Dont care about likeness, only sale amount report matter in the end 😅

[@marlanjn.baptiste8715]

Nah them examples of obsucre books had me tripping!

[@Amyelk]

This was interesting, but given that I'm not even sure how to go about finding beta readers and whatnot, it's probably a bit premature for me. Then again, I haven't written a book yet that I'd want to get beta read, so it's also a bit early for me to be thinking about beta readers...

[@ItsToadallyFine]

I thought your videos had 10 tips, why did you return to making videos with 5 tips?

[@connorking984]

Well sometimes there aren't ten tips worth of... tips. It's a long video with just the five already

[@ItsToadallyFine]

@@connorking984 The video isn't long at all, it's kind of short

[@CMAlongi]

Honestly, as a published author who's able to support herself full-time with story creation and major fan base, I STILL have the "what if nobody likes this new book" fear, except now it's "what if it's overhyped because of my fan base/previous successes, but it's just an average book" kind of fear. Fun times all around! 🥲