A friend has published a book--I dislike it. What to say?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What do you say to a friend who has published a romance novel that you think is TERRIBLE? It's published by a respected publisher (like Simon & Schuster, but not S&S). I just can't think of a positive thing to say.
I truly love this friend and am in awe that she is a published author, while mothering two little sons, and I've told her so.

How many romance novels do you read a year, typically?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP you need to understand romance books are awful and silly to begin with. However, there is a big market for it so likely the book was good enough to be published.

Poorly-written romance novels are awful. Well-written ones can be excellent, same as with any genre fiction.

[Anonymous]

"How exciting for you! Your family must be thrilled! I can't wait to hear the secrets to your success!"

[Anonymous]

You are not expected to provide critical commentary and a book review. Congratulations and a friendly acknowledgment of her success are all that is required.

[Anonymous]

Why would you even be expected to read the book? Just congratulate her. She's not going to quiz you.

[Anonymous]

Just don’t say anything except congrats on getting published, what a great accomplishment. Why would you be expected to read the book, especially if you’re not a regular reader of romance?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:How narcissistic are you to think your opinion matters over that of a reputable publisher? Be happy for her success and seek help for yourself.

This right here

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Methinks you are jealous

yup.

[Anonymous]

You could say something like "it's so fun getting to read something written by a friend!" and tell her how proud you are. No commentary needed on the actual content of the book.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Society would fall apart if we didn't tell white lies. Honestly, OP, is it that hard to be supportive even if it doesn't appeal to you?

+1. Agreed. Sometimes I think people are intentionally stingy with giving compliments. It is common sense to tell a white lie in this scenario, and op knows that .

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Seriously, you know how to read an entire book yet need to crowdsource this question? You say it’s fantastic, you’re so proud, blah blah. Regular human stuff.

Not a small possibility you’re actually posting this in the hope that she’ll see it and be taken down a peg or two.

This. Without question. Op is by definition being a hater.

[Anonymous]

Do you tell someone their newborn is ugly?? Say congratulations and work on finding it in your heart to be happy for her.

[Anonymous]

Can’t you just be happy for her?

[Anonymous]

For clarification, a shady compliment that dances around giving an actual compliment is worse. Being passive-aggressive when you are capable of giving a friend praise is petty, and it comes across as envious. We all know how to tell effective and convincing lies. Now is not the time to be honest. But op already know this.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:“I’m amazed by how many synonyms you know for the word ‘thrust’!”