lynerparel

I actually have somewhat the same issue with my novel where readers shout "there should be a harem tag" or "please no harem"

Though I really don't think about it much as I on;y read the comments to see what they think about the novel. Since we authors don't have control over our own tags or even remove the incorrect ones, i can't really do anything about what tags have been put there.

To me, when i deem a novel i read a harem novel, it means that the MC has trouble choosing between the various choices or straight out chooses more than one. (that's my own judgement of considering one a harem novel anyway) Since mine does not have that problem... (at least I haven't really decided yet?) Even if there are a generous amount of female characters, the MC's focus is completely on something else.

I don't know if this is going to be helpful to you or not but what I do is just write what I already planned while ironing out how to get there. Remember your original thoughts on what is about to happen and do not allow the comments to sway your own opinion because no matter what, some people will not like what you decide. Don't let the comments influence what you write ESPECIALLY the main choices/parts. I'm not saying don't listen to the comments but compromising with "what they are asking for" is a good way for one to lose the intended way.

Take note that most of the people reading your novel may not even be actively commenting. or if they do comment, it's the usual xp sect. Always remember that you have more readers in the dark than those actually trying to impact the way you tell your story. If your getting swayed by the comments, you can always stop reading for a few chapters and just come back at it afterwards. complete the thoughts you have on your mind goes because you are first and foremost the creator of the fiction they are enjoying. the fact that they are following your novel means that they like the content you started in the first place.

Just my two cents. hope it helps

    lynerparel

    My 2 cents.

    Criticism and opinions can be placed into two categories and then dealt with by you.

    Whenever a reader, (which includes other authors, critics etc), gives you feedback on an aspect you need to look at the root of the issue.

    "The main character should have done this not that...." e.g. gone to paris, not stay behind in workshop training.
    NEVER do what readers tell you to do, but ALWAYS look for the cause of the critic to learn from your "beta readers"

    This way you can learn if something is boring, out of character, not enough depth of character, etc and you can make a decision if you want to change. But at least you got the message.
    Collating feedback
    If one reader tells you a joke isnt funny and four say it is. Then its funny. And vice versa
    substitute joke/funny with - understandable, interesting, etc

    Ok what does this all have to do with harems?

    1) You cannot please everyone all the time. Don't even try.
    2) What are the personality and motives of your characters? It should not be you or the readers deciding if there is a harem, it should be the characters. And in that if they did; it would not look like an anime harem, maybe more like a love triangle.
    3) Listen to the readers intent, never let them bully you.

        Now I'm really confused I got a comment today that's says I said before that there will be no harem. When did I say that?! I never did.

          lynerparel Good luck with it, if there is really going to be a harem, then each girl should have a different personality, and don't make them disappear for the sake of getting another member.
          Personally, If there is a harem story, I would like girls to be strong and help mc to achieve his goals.

            Skully_ thank you! That's help so much!

            My readers say my chapter 1 is confusing... what should I do...? :( I already moved 2 chapters of backstory to chapters 5&6, and deleted 2 prologue/ intro chapters...

                lynerparel great! Eventually true fans will be fans, neutrals will stick with you, and haters or band-wagoners won't last with you...

                Trust in what you write!

                Edit: not like my book is successful haha! But in other areas, I have learned to just say, "What does it matter...?" And live open-heartedly

                    Ierrech

                    Listen to readers describing a problem and think of a way to improve the writing to solve.

                    I cant solve it for you. What is the reason its confusing? lack or exposition explaining stuff? Does it become clear later? Is the information worked in?

                    Theres nothing wrong with chapter one being confusing if it all comes clear as they read. thats normal. But we havent established why its confusing

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