Now would be a good time . . .

[jhetley]

. . . for some kind person to remind me that "taste" is not subject to debate. Just read the _Locus_ review for THE WINTER OAK, and that's the second to suggest that I have turned soft by letting my characters get a Happy Ending. "Somewhat cloying" was the phrase that _Publishers Weekly_ used. "Love-conquers-all sentimentality" also came into play.

Neither review turned out really negative, but I've got to develop a tougher hide if I'm going to read these things.

Oh, well, "second-book syndrome" is well known. Now to go off and wait in vain for anybody to want a signed book at Borders.

Comments

[pegkerr.livejournal.com]

Awwwww.

I've never quite gotten over the review of my very first published story, which described it as "schmaltzy, but moving." Same idea, I guess.

[pjthompson]

If it's any consolation, I bought the mass market version of Summer Country based on that review in Locus of Winter Oak. So, yes, it is a taste issue. :-)

[jhetley.livejournal.com]

Just to quote an ad, "Thanks, I needed that."