I Write Fanfiction And Some The Reviews I Receive Online Are Very Offensive. What Should I Do?

Bad reviews, also known as flames in fanfiction, are a common occurrence. There will always be someone who criticises your work, no matter how well written it is. Negative reviews should contain constructive criticism, however, and not offensive remarks.

Fanfiction is fun to write, but there is somehow the pressure of remaining faithful to the books and if your story has anything that is out of character, then you will most likely be criticised. People who just leave offensive remarks are obviously immature, as there is no need to do such things. Although in some cases, it can depend on what your story contains. If you have issues such as drug use or violence, and there is no sign of this in the actual books, then people are bound to respond in such a negative manner, which may mean, as you have described, being offensive.

You could either report the reviews as abusive, or you could politely ask the reviewer to stop leaving comments on your work. Quite often though, writers and reviewers end up getting into arguments on the review board. If you are serious about being a writer, then perhaps the best option would be to report the abuse rather than get into a barrage of insults with the reviewer.

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I agree with Louise Gorman's response in that the reviewer is "obviously immature" and as such, I'd let the negative remarks die a lonely death. By responding, it only adds fuel to the fire that you've taken the bait and you never know what is sitting on the other side of that keyboard. (could be a bored 12 year old! HA)

Most of all, don't take it to heart. Continue with your work and focus on typing out the storyline in your head. Good luck!

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