Expectations Between Authors

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

For me, I just really enjoy reading comp entries. They are my fav to read. I enjoy newbies’ stories too. And of course have my fav authors and fav genres. But, I still work full-time and outside of comps, I do feel overwhelmed at times if authors read me and I don’t have energy or desire to read stories at that time. I tell authors I don’t expect reads back on my stuff. And I think it’s fine if some people are only here to write.

And I don’t think it’s right to leave a negative comment on a comp entry if you are in the comp too. Just my thoughts on it. I can always find something positive to say and leave out the negative in comps.

Just wanting to hear everyone’s honest expectations.

Quote by KimmiBeGood

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

Not really. It would be nice but I don't check up on who's read and who hasn't. You really only know if they like or comment anyhow.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

I definitely try to, but time and discretion mean I can't spend hours on here reading so it's best effort rather than do or die.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

I think it is in their best entries to see what else was entered. Again, per above, it's almost always best effort, esp. given how many stories we tend to get in comps on here. On SS, it's a bit different. 13-16 stories is kind of the norm there.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

I would hope it is okay to do so. I occasionally leave a "critical" comment but generally its buried in with positive ones and I can't say whether I have ever done so in a comp.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

Again, how would you even know if they don't like or comment? Unless you know something I don't, Interactions doesn't track reads, only Like and comments.

For me, I just really enjoy reading comp entries. They are my fav to read. I enjoy newbies’ stories too. And of course have my fav authors and fav genres. But, I still work full-time and outside of comps, I do feel overwhelmed at times if authors read me and I don’t have energy or desire to read stories at that time. I tell authors I don’t expect reads back on my stuff. And I think it’s fine if some people are only here to write.

I think that's fair. It's kind of where I am at, too.

And I don’t think it’s right to leave a negative comment on a comp entry if you are in the comp too. Just my thoughts on it. I can always find something positive to say and leave out the negative in comps.

Good point about not leaving critical comments on your competition. I can get behind that. My "critical" comments are usually pretty mild anyhow, just noting something that could have been better in an otherwise good story type of comments. In general, if I totally hate a story, I won't comment. If I leave a Like and/or Favorite a story, meaning I at least enjoyed it even if it was not perfect, I comment. If I don't do either, I would only comment if I saw something worth commenting on.

Good topic, Kimmie.

On non-comps, I don't feel obligated to read the story of someone who comments. But my interest is often piqued by an interesting comment, and so I'll go check them out and read a story.

As far as comps. yeah, I think those that enter should attempt to read as many of the others as they reasonably can. I realize this is easy for me to say, because I have time to read them. And I critique a lot of stories IRL for critique groups, so it's second nature for me (I think that Noir contest wore us all out early.)

But I get most people don't have time to read ALL of them. What bugs me a bit is those who seem uninterested in ANY of the other entries. It's a writing community. We're together in this. A rising tide lifts all boats.

I try to keep critical comments to private messages, and only to people who would appreciate the comment.

Thanks for responding, fellas! 😀

Quote by KimmiBeGood

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

Like Seeker4, it'd be nice but I certainly don't expect it. I appreciate that many people have preferred genres, story types, or writing styles, and there's no way any writer can appeal to everyone all the time. Even people who regularly read my stuff, skip ones that might be too close for comfort or plain uninteresting to their tastes. Totally cool with that.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

See above. If its an author I've read before, there's a good chance if I get time. If it's someone I've never heard of (yay for finding me!) then I will check their profile to see if they've written anything that piques my interest and read/follow them.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Yes, if time permits. I certainly like to see what I'm up against, and also learn a tonne from reading comps because everyone tends to step up their game a notch. But I'm guilty of not reading eveything due to time constraints. I'm still half a dozen late entries adrift in this comp, oops.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

Depends what you mean by critical. I'll never bash a story for the sake of it, cos it makes me look a dick. And I don't have all the answers; far from it. But if there was something I felt took me out of the story, I might mention it if it's someone I know well enough. Usually I will only focus on what I did like. And if I completely didn't get on with a piece, I'll walk away.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

Not really. Everyone has reasons for reading or not. Be it time constraints, style, author's attitude, whatever, I'm just grateful for everyone who gives my work a read. And that goes doubly for anyone who leaves a comment that either helps me bask in glory, or learn to address parts that weren't as well received.

Quote by KimmiBeGood

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

It would be nice, but no. It may have happened, but I don't know.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

If they are outside my normal group of readers, I will certainly look over what they have written. In fairness, I can comfortably read in very few categories, so if they do Bondage or Anal or something, I'll give them a thank you and pass.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Since I don't do comps, I can't say much past I think it would be nice to bolster everyone's efforts.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

In a couple of cases, I have PM'd an author to point out something technical that needed fixing, but I keep my comments laudatory or remain silent. Honestly, I have read very few of the comp themes.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

Without leaving a like or comment, I'd have to guess if they had or hadn't. Maybe they did and their response was what my effort deserved. Or maybe they just didn't. All I can be thankful for is the small group of Lushies who do read and respond to my fits and starts.

I'm not sure if this is any help at all, but there you go, Kimmi.

I certainly hope no one feels obligated to read my stories. I only hope they hit ‘Like’ because they genuinely liked it, commenting when compelled. I do wish I could witness the moment when their smirk appears as they read, though. That would be priceless.

All very good questions!!

Quote by KimmiBeGood

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

Not at all. I want people to read my stories because they like the catchment category and tags.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

No, but I will have a look. If i find one which has a combo of name, tags and category which interests me, i'll add it to my reading list and read when it's next on the list..

If i hit "favourite" on more than two stories from one author, I will also follow them.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Yes, absolutely! The authors entering the comps are generally some of the best writers the site has. their input is just as valuable as anyone else - competitions or not.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

Yes, providing it is constructive. There is no need for outright negativity just because something doesn't meet your specific needs.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

Not at all. We are all into different scenarios and categories. I like to write from an immersive POV with realism so that the reader feels it is them in the story, others like to read from a voyeuristic POV or are interested in only certain categories which I will never write.

Kistin and WW hit on one thing I missed: Certain categories and tags are mostly no gos for me though with an author I like and trust, never say never. But, yeah, that would be another reason I might not read another author's story even if they read mine.

One of the reasons I started writing was because I wasn't seeing the kinds of stories I wanted to read - obviously I'm going to serve my own tastes and preferences as an author, but I can't expect that others will satisfy those same desires. Simply put, I can pretty much guarantee that I'll be into my own stories. Anyone else, it's hit and more often miss - not that they're poorly written, they're just not written specifically for me. So, I'll check out a few other competition entries that look promising, but I don't read them all (nor do I feel obligated to), because I know I won't enjoy many of them.

As for critical comments, I save them for general shit-talking in the forums. I don't often leave criticism on anyone's individual work. I think it's a bit over-aggressive towards someone who has voluntarily put in the unpaid creative effort to produce a piece of writing, and had the courage to share it with the world. If anyone is interested in my brutally honest opinion of their work and open to suggestions for improvement, they can message me*. However, my experience has been most people just want to know that you enjoyed their writing and aren't too interested in serious feedback on their work (nor am I, so fair play). If I leave a comment, it's usually about something I've enjoyed or admired. Otherwise (I can hear my mother's voice), "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

*Actually, no, don't message me. Unless I know you, we probably don't have a relationship where I feel inclined to invest that much labor in giving you feedback.

I don't feel any real obligation to read other author's stories, or have mine read, but I do like to try. I also try to read all the comp entries (only after submitting my own), hard to do with the number of entries sometimes. I will try to add a comment on each one I read, but try to stick to the positives- especially on newer authors or unusual stories with low reads to encourage them to continue.

There is such a vast difference in writing styles, genres, content, and quality of stories it can be overwhelming, so I do focus on the authors I am familiar with first, then try to get through the rest. As far as those I follow that may not read or comment on my stories, that is not an issue for me. If they read it and comment, fantastic, if not, that is fine.

Quote by Seeker4
Certain categories and tags are mostly no gos for me though with an author I like and trust, never say never

This.

I try to avoid fantasy, for example, but one of the most amazing authors on the site wrote This Side Of Nowhere and I took a punt on it, because it was Katherine. And, damn, I'm glad I did because the IF was subtle and underplayed and the entire trilogy was sexy as all fuck.

It directly inspired me to have a go at writing in the category, skirting round the very fringes of the genre. Just once. So, yeah, never say never.

I copied and pasted your questions into a Word Doc, Kimmi, so I could take time to answer them and copy them here again. My answers are in bold italics.

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

It’s always nice if they return the favor, but I don’t expect them to do so.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

I don’t feel obligated to read one of theirs, but I try to do so when I have time. Sometimes my time is limited, so I might check to see if they have a shorter story that I can read so they don’t feel that I’m not interested.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

I always try to read all the entries in a competition if I have entered it. Mostly because I am always interested to see all the different takes on the same theme. While it would be really nice for that to be reciprocated, I’m well aware that isn’t very likely to happen. If I don’t have time to read them all, I will at least make sure to read all the ones whose authors have read mine. I will also drop a message for people who want me to read theirs to let me know if I know I’m just not going to have time to read every entry (But, I typically do try to read all of them AFTER I have submitted mine).

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

It’s not in my comfort zone to leave critical comments on any story. If I feel like something I have to say might be helpful to an author, I share my thoughts in a private message. If I have nothing positive to say, I simply don’t leave a comment.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

I don’t feel differently about an author who doesn’t return reads. Some authors have limited amounts of time or are here just to write. I don’t begrudge anyone that. However, I do focus most of my leisure reading time on authors who have read my stories.

I also will admittedly steer clear of stories that aren't my thing most of the time. Although I am sometimes surprised when a fellow author writes a story I'm sure I won't like, but take a chance since it's a friend, and I have been pleasantly surprised.

Not wishing to derail this excellent thread but on the subject of critical comments, here's an example.

I can't remember exactly which story it was, but both Kimmi (I think?) and I said we enjoyed the story premise but the author's continual usage of referring to the characters by their initial - H took off her panties, A spanked J then kissed H and stroked J's ass while J purred, etc - meant it was quite difficult to follow. So, for future reference, we mentioned it might help their readership if they tried a different system. Even fake names rather than just initials might work.

If a bunch of readers think the same thing, and I was the author, I would wonder, "aha, how about in the next story I try such and such and see if it works...?" That's what I do if someone leaves me constructive feedback.

Now, I appreciate that this is subjective, and some people may love the fact that the story is sprinkled with capital letters for the names, because it adds to the anonymous feel.

Could I have said nothing? Yes. Should I? The jury is out. If I said nothing, the next story might be the same. And the next. And if it carries on and readership dwindles, will the author be discouraged from writing altogether?

I did enjoy the story - and said so - but the mental gymnastics with the people's codenames slowed me down as a reader. I felt that was important to highlight, in as nice a manner possible, so the author knows how their story is received. That would be more valuable to me, as a writer, than someone simply getting cheesed off with the acronyms and closing the story without reading the rest, or leaving a comment.

I could have sent a PM. But if one person says it, others might chime in on the same subject, which adds credence to the viewpoint and is a signal to the author that they'd be as well to revisit that aspect of storytelling in future, if they want to grow their fan base.

Quote by WannabeWordsmith

Not wishing to derail this excellent thread but on the subject of critical comments, here's an example.

I can't remember exactly which story it was, but both Kimmi (I think?) and I said we enjoyed the story premise but the author's continual usage of referring to the characters by their initial - H took off her panties, A spanked J then kissed H and stroked J's ass while J purred, etc - meant it was quite difficult to follow. So, for future reference, we mentioned it might help their readership if they tried a different system. Even fake names rather than just initials might work.

If a bunch of readers think the same thing, and I was the author, I would wonder, "aha, how about in the next story I try such and such and see if it works...?" That's what I do if someone leaves me constructive feedback.

Now, I appreciate that this is subjective, and some people may love the fact that the story is sprinkled with capital letters for the names, because it adds to the anonymous feel.

Could I have said nothing? Yes. Should I? The jury is out. If I said nothing, the next story might be the same. And the next. And if it carries on and readership dwindles, will the author be discouraged from writing altogether?

I did enjoy the story - and said so - but the mental gymnastics with the people's codenames slowed me down as a reader. I felt that was important to highlight, in as nice a manner possible, so the author knows how their story is received. That would be more valuable to me, as a writer, than someone simply getting cheesed off with the acronyms and closing the story without reading the rest, or leaving a comment.

And if one person says it, others might chime in on the same subject, which adds credence to the viewpoint and is a signal to the author that they'd be as well to revisit that aspect of storytelling in future.

I think initials are kind of sexy, in that you are protecting someone's identity, even in fiction. But I can see how it would pull you out of a story. I used a character named V once, I think.

Here's a piece of writing advice I think I heard on Tik Tok, of all places. If someone tells you something isn't working in a story, listen, because they are almost always right. When someone tells you how to fix it, ignore them, because they are often wrong.

In other words, trust when a reader says something isn't working. How you solve the problem is up to you, but trust the reader.

Quote by Ensorceled
trust when a reader says something isn't working. How you solve the problem is up to you, but trust the reader.

I like this. Imma remember that when commenting, thank you.

Yup, I remember that one, WW. Part of why I started this thread. I wondered if I should have left out the “initial”mention since a comp entry, but then decided even if the judges read the comments, I wouldn’t be swaying them on that point. It’s a personal thing if you like initials used like that or not.

I know I often send authors PMs if I spot typos. And appreciate it back on my typos.

Good questions, Kimmi.

Quote by KimmiBeGood
If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

No. I have limited time to read, so I read for my enjoyment and to learn from others, not to get reads in return. Anyway, as others have pointed out, there's no way to know if a specific person has read a story unless they like, favourite, comment, or send you a PM. It would be a bit unrealistic to expect that from someone just for reading their story, though obviously it's all the more appreciated when they do.

Quote by KimmiBeGood
If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

Not obligated as such, but since I write primarily for myself and the content is not exactly mainstream, I try to make the effort to (eventually) read their stories on the basis that they probably write for similar reasons so I'm more likely to enjoy it and/or learn something about writing from them than a random story. Also, since I'll only know they've read if they've commented etc., that tends to indicate they might want to share writing tips etc. and the community is why I'm still here 13+ years after I joined.

Quote by KimmiBeGood
Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Yes, as much as they can, for the same reasons others have given. I don't always manage myself, though, since I don't read any until I've submitted mine. Also, I find writing a comment that's helpful takes almost as long (sometimes longer) than reading them, so I don't think they should feel they have to comment or do anything else to show they've read, but improving your own writing is the best thing about the comps.

Quote by KimmiBeGood
Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

Rarely. Or any other story - it feels like being a teacher, calling out someone's mistakes in front of the whole class, which I think tends to make the recipient of criticism defensive rather than receptive. I prefer direct PMs for criticism etc. Maybe a discussion in the forum if it's a point worth sharing (but without giving the story as an example since that's possibly even worse than a comment, and after the comp results are announced).

Oh, I forgot one:

Quote by KimmiBeGood
Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

No. It would be pretty hypocritical of me for a start, given I don't have time to read all the stories I want to. Plus maybe they read it and didn't like it but were too polite to say — quite likely given my stories are mostly weird as fuck.

Quote by KimmiBeGood

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

I don't have as much time as I used to so I don't get to read as many stories as I once did. I do try to read some authors that I've been following as much as possible but life gets in the way.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

I definitely would check out their stories and see what they offer and put them in my queue.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

I'm one of those who won't read others entries until I send in my own if I am writing for the comp. In a perfect world I'd like to read all the entries but that rarely ever happens.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

I think I'd leave a general comment and if I felt strongly about something then I'd send the author a private message.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

Not really. I know everyone here has a life that takes up time. I'd love for others to read my work and would like to hear honest opinions on how they feel. I know I have a couple stories, not necessarily comp entries, that I've poured much of my heart into but not sure how others truly feel about them.

Quote by KimmiBeGood
I know I often send authors PMs if I spot typos.

I don't know if it is because of being a writer or what, but typos really bug me nowadays. Yesterday I actually emailed my counterpart at corporate about one in a memo he sent. In a gently humourous wink-wink manner. He and I have both been working in the group for over twenty years so I can get away with a bit of teasing even though he technically outranks me.

Quote by KimmiBeGood

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

No, absolutely not.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

Oh, yes. There is a guilt, especially when you know just how infuriating it is sometimes to write them. I have many to get through, and they are there like a paper cut to the soul.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

No, it must appeal, and I realise I am developing a sense of purpose and style that would not appeal to everyone. If I have an audience, there are readers (and writers) that have connected with what I write. This is such a thrill but it has developed organically (?) and it is not forced.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

I think it is Encorceled that said it best (I looked this up) - a rising tide lifts all ships. I will always encourage in a competition, the more entries the better.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

No, I appreciate the individual too much to think differently, and our motivations are unique. Again, if I write something that appeals...

I hope this helps - it is a fascinating set of questions. A great post, Kimmi. 😘

Quote by KimmiBeGood

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

For me, the distinguishing feature of Lush relative to other story sites is that feeling of a community of writers. So, for me, I do try to read those who have commented on mine and I kind of hope the favour will be returned. But I understand how difficult that can often be for me and others, so I dont have the expectation of a reading quid pro quo.

Competitions are different, I will always read and comment (before reading anything else) on other entrants who read and comment on mine. Then I will attempt to read every story, sometimes I succeed - Noir and Free Spirit - other times I don't quite make it - Punk was about 75 percent. The competitions bring more attention to our writing so for that reason I am determined to make them a priority.

I'd be happy to receive critical comments on my stories, in fact that would be really helpful to me improving as a writer. I do tend to closely read comments on my stories with an eye to improving. But I would be loathe to make 'suggestions for improvement' in competitions for others, as who is to say my views would coincide with those of the judges.

As an author, I want people to authentically enjoy and respond to my work, not just because we're friends, or there's an expectation that I'll return the favor. A quid pro quo exchange kind of cheapens any response they leave.

Quote by Ensorceled
If someone tells you something isn't working in a story, listen, because they are almost always right. When someone tells you how to fix it, ignore them, because they are often wrong.

This is great advice. If you feel the need to defend your story, your story probably sucks. On the other hand, if you depend on your audience for providing your creative direction, you probably suck as an author - might as well let the audience write the damned thing themselves if they feel so strongly about it.

Like any parent, at some point you have to let go of your offspring and let them wander the world without you, sticking up for themselves. You can't be there forever by their side, always defending them and justifying or explaining away their shortcomings. Nor should you be so blind - "my child can do no wrong" - that you can't see your child's obvious flaws or work to address them. However, if you've done your job as a parent (author), they should be able to get along fine on their own and you can watch and be proud as they interact with all the different kinds of people in the world that they may encounter. For sure, some people are definitely idiots when it comes to reading - but if you think everyone lacks the intelligence to 'get' your work , then the idiot is probably you (trust me, you're not as sophisticated as you think, just unbearably pretentious - get over yourself and out of your own way).

Quote by Just_A_Guy_You_Know
This is great advice. If you feel the need to defend your story, your story probably sucks. On the other hand, if you depend on your audience for providing your creative direction, you probably suck as an author - might as well let the audience write the damned thing themselves if they feel so strongly about it.

Another way to put it: a bad lover blames their partner. Never blame the reader, they are doing you a favor by reading it in the first place. If they don't get it, it is the writer's fault.

Quote by Ensorceled
Never blame the reader,

I am going to suggest there are exceptions. The guy who whined about me including an enby character in one of my stories is very much to be blamed and I will happily include non-binary, trans, and any other human who might make people like him uncomfortable in future stories when they are appropriate for the story (and maybe even when they are not sometimes).

IOW, listen to your readers for sure, but use discernment because not all of them are, in fact, right. Some can rightfully be ignored.

Quote by Seeker4

I am going to suggest there are exceptions. The guy who whined about me including an enby character in one of my stories is very much to be blamed and I will happily include non-binary, trans, and any other human who might make people like him uncomfortable in future stories when they are appropriate for the story (and maybe even when they are not sometimes).

IOW, listen to your readers for sure, but use discernment because not all of them are, in fact, right. Some can rightfully be ignored.

I would agree there are exceptions. And it doesn’t take into account the James Joyces of the world. But as a general rule, readers see your story better than you do. As the writer, you are often too close. Trust readers. You need them.

Quote by Ensorceled
Trust readers. You need them.

To truly trust them, though, don't you need some knowledge of them? I mean I could write an absolutely brilliant Star Wars fanfic with flawless prose, storytelling, etc. but if the site I post it on is heavy on Star Wars haters, I will get mostly negative feedback. That does not mean anything needs to be changed in my story, I just need to find another market with different readers.

Quote by KimmiBeGood

Just curious about this. No judgment from me, so please answer honestly.

If you read a story by an author, do you expect them to return the favor?

Not really.

If an author reads your story, do you feel obligated to read one of their stories?

Normally I would but it depends on the genre.

Do you think authors should read the other entries in competitions?

Yes, once your entry is submitted, but comps like free spirit where the number of entries are very high it not possible to read all unless you have a lot of time.

Do you feel you can leave a critical comment on a comp entry?

No, if I don't like something I tend to not to leave a comment at all but I always give a like if someone has taken their time to write a comp entry. Honestly, I think it sometimes impossible to say one comp entry is better than another, most are really good and for me it is the idea behind the story that does it for me rather than the standard of English or writing.

Do you think differently about an author who doesn’t return reads?

Yes and no.... normally no but I admit there have been a couple of occasions where the answer is yes. I feel (if time allows) all wood be authors like me should take some time to read and comment on other writers stories.

For me, I just really enjoy reading comp entries. They are my fav to read. I enjoy newbies’ stories too. And of course have my fav authors and fav genres. But, I still work full-time and outside of comps, I do feel overwhelmed at times if authors read me and I don’t have energy or desire to read stories at that time. I tell authors I don’t expect reads back on my stuff. And I think it’s fine if some people are only here to write.

And I don’t think it’s right to leave a negative comment on a comp entry if you are in the comp too. Just my thoughts on it. I can always find something positive to say and leave out the negative in comps.

Just wanting to hear everyone’s honest expectations.