Reviewing with River

Good point, Zen. I do try to communicate that I understood the story and how/why it works as a story. Even if I pull out something that I felt didn't work, I try to explain that I understood the author's intent and then why I'm giving the suggestion I'm giving. I try very hard to provide a why to my suggestions.

I don't think anyone should come down on another person's actual story. I've had people do that to me, without explanation as to why they felt that way, and it's not a nice feeling. I always make sure to point out great concepts, ideas, sentences, and even nuances.

I'm also always upfront that my suggestions are coming from one reader, and that the author is the one decide what is best for their stories at the end of the day. I usually put several reminders about that as I go along. I never want to rewrite a person's story, only help make the reader's experience as clear and easy as possible.

I also make a point to state what is a purely stylistic difference of opinion from my point of view. Stylistic is subjective - like you said about editors. I usually follow it up with - feel free to ignore it if it doesn't suit you or you do what is best for your character or something similar.

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