Let’s talk about something that every author has to face at some point: feedback. Specifically, how to turn reader feedback into better books. It’s natural to feel a little defensive when someone critiques your work—it’s personal! But here’s the thing: feedback is one of the most powerful tools you have as a writer. When you approach it with the right mindset, it can help you create books that resonate even more deeply with your readers. Let’s break it down.
First, remember that not all feedback is created equal. Some feedback will be incredibly helpful, and some will just be noise. The key is to look for patterns. If one person says, “I didn’t like this character,” that might just be their opinion. But if multiple readers say the same thing, it’s worth digging into. Patterns show you where your story might not be landing the way you hoped.
Next, think about where to find this feedback. Beta readers are an amazing resource. These are people who read your book before it’s published and give you honest critiques. When picking beta readers, aim for a mix of perspectives—some who are familiar with your genre and others who aren’t. Sites like Goodreads or writing communities on Reddit can be great places to find beta readers.
Once your book is out, reviews are another goldmine for feedback. But here’s the thing—you have to learn to filter. A review that says, “The pacing felt slow in the middle” is actionable. A review that says, “This book was boring” isn’t. Focus on the critiques that give you specific, tangible things to improve.
When you have feedback, start organizing it. Break it into categories like plot, characters, pacing, and dialogue. This helps you see trends more clearly. For example, if several readers mention that the ending feels rushed, that’s a sign to take another look. Or if a character seems flat, maybe they need more depth or a stronger arc.
One thing to keep in mind: you don’t have to act on every piece of feedback. At the end of the day, it’s your book. The goal isn’t to please everyone—it’s to create something that stays true to your vision while connecting with your target audience. Think about what your ideal reader wants and use that as a guide for deciding which feedback to act on.
Feedback is also incredibly useful for series authors. If you’re writing a series, the feedback from book one can shape how you approach the next installments. Listen to what readers loved, fix what didn’t work, and use that to build even better books going forward.
Finally, show appreciation for the people giving you feedback. Whether it’s beta readers, early reviewers, or even casual readers, a little gratitude goes a long way. A simple thank-you can turn someone into a lifelong fan.
For more on how to handle criticism and improve your craft, you can check out this article on Constructive Criticism. It’s a great overview of how to make feedback work for you instead of against you.