Okay, listen up.

It’s never a good idea for an author or any other publishing professional to try taking on a reader in a public forum.

It is just plain stupid.

I don’t think that the author ought to feel obligated to kiss tail.  Not at all.  Anybody that knows me will probably tell you that I’m more likely to kick somebody in the butt than kiss it…particularly if they make clear that I should kiss butt.

But you can refuse to kiss butt and still be professional. 

Folks, it is just plain dumb to insult a reader.  Period.  The readers are the reason we can sell books.  They don’t buy, we don’t sell, we don’t make money.  Even if you think you’re justified, it’s not a good idea to throw down with a reader.  Because I can guarantee you that there will be readers out there who don’t like how you handled it and they just might decide to … stop buying your books.  I really don’t have to explain why this is a bad idea, do I?

More, it’s been made clear on several industry blogs that editors and agents do read blogs. They see you acting like an ass, you’re probably going to end up on their list of those who aren’t worth the trouble. 

I really, really wish some people would get a clue, get a grip, and shut up.  If you can’t talk without making yourself (and others through association) look like a moron, then just don’t say anything.  Please.  You’re giving the industry a black eye and those of us who have worked our tails off are getting tired of it.