Yes, that title is misleading. I just wanted to get your attention. There are no “crowds” yet, but in the last few days, I’ve heard from three people about how much they liked the book. That’s three people who are not related to me, and don’t even know me.
As in, strangers. Ordinary people who saw my book, bought it or received it as a gift, and read it. Then let me know what they thought about it.
I appreciate that. Feedback is important, both as encouragement, and to let me know what people like. Or dislike. It’s useful when it comes to improving my writing.
Now I just need all those people to tell other people about the book. Maybe leave a review on Amazon, Goodreads, or other places. Not every reader does that, and I’m very grateful to the ones who do.
But I really love hearing personally from a reader. The grin never quite goes away.
Marlene Dotterer 
Great stuff, Marlene. It’s these types of readers that really shine and help word of mouth. I’d take one of these over ten reviews from people who felt like they had to review it because they know the author.
And definitely better than those group reviews Jim Hines posted about this week. Ugh.
Yeah, I’ve seen people post in forums, looking for other authors to “tag” their books, or vote, or whatever. I try to help other writers who are in groups I belong to, but I have a few basic rules. I’ll only comment or rate if I’ve actually read the book, and I won’t read the book if it’s a genre I know I won’t enjoy. And I won’t ask anyone to review my book in return.
I don’t know if you saw my note on SheWrites, Marleen, but I left you a five-star review on Amazon last week. I’ve also rated it as such on Goodreads, though I don’t think I’ve actually written a review there. I’m also going to mention it on my blog very soon — it is a wonderful story that swept me away. I can’t wait to read the next in the series!
Thank you, Nadine! You know, I try not to obsess over at Amazon. For the longest time I had only one review, so I quit looking. I’m so glad you pointed it out to me – there are a total of six reviews now, between the ebook and the paperback. That’s cool.
And, oh dear. The antagonist in Bridgebuilders is named Feldman. Hope you don’t mind the bad guy having your name!
Yay! That is so wonderful!!!!
Feedback is wonderful, especially from people who feel no obligation to make you feel good. This is wonderful news. Hoping for continued success for your novel.