A Publisher's Conversation with Authors: When Faith Meets Bias -- How Authors Can Respond to Spiritually Prejudiced Reviews

 

It is Tuesday. Monday's madness is over, and Wednesday will take us over the hump, so Tuesday it is--for some serious discussion with authors. Tuesday talks mean to address authors in waiting and self-published authors who would like to go a more traditional route or who would at least like to take their steps with a publisher by their side.

This week, the topic is a continuation of the topic from July: bad reviews. In this case, the situation is spiritually biased reviewed. 

Publishing a book rooted in faith—whether Christian, Muslim, Jewish, or Interfaith—is an act of courage. It’s a declaration of belief, a bridge to understanding, and often, a deeply personal offering. But when reviews reflect not just critique, but spiritual bias, the sting cuts deeper.

So what can authors do when their work is dismissed or attacked—not for its craft, but for its convictions?

🔍 1. Spot the Bias

Not all negative reviews are biased. But when a reviewer mocks religious beliefs, misrepresents sacred texts, or uses inflammatory language, it’s worth asking:

• Is the critique about the book’s quality—or its worldview?
• Does the reviewer show familiarity with the faith tradition?
• Is there a pattern of hostility toward certain spiritual perspectives?

Recognizing bias is the first step toward reclaiming your narrative.

🛑 2. Know When to Report

Most platforms have guidelines against hate speech and discriminatory content. If a review crosses the line:

• Report it through the platform’s abuse or feedback system.
• Document it with screenshots and links.
• Avoid public retaliation. Let the facts speak for themselves.

A calm, professional approach preserves your integrity—and often gets better results.

💬 3. Respond with Grace (If You Respond at All)

If you choose to reply to a biased review, do so with clarity and compassion. Consider:

“Thank you for engaging with the book. MSI Press publishes works from a range of faith traditions, “I appreciate you taking the time to read and engage with my book. As an MSI Press author, I’m honored to be part of a publishing house that embraces diverse faith perspectives and encourages respectful conversation. My hope is that this work contributes to a broader understanding—and invites thoughtful dialogue across traditions.”

Or simply let your readers speak for you. A chorus of thoughtful reviews can drown out a single voice of prejudice.

🌍 4. Build Bridges, Not Walls

Spiritual bias often stems from misunderstanding. Use your platform to educate and connect:

• Share excerpts that clarify your book’s intent.
• Host interfaith discussions or Q&A sessions.
• Highlight common values across traditions—compassion, justice, peace.

Your book can be more than a target—it can be a tool for healing.

📣 5. Amplify Voices of Support

Encourage readers from your faith community—and beyond—to leave reviews. Their perspectives offer balance and context.

• Feature positive reviews in your marketing.
• Invite endorsements from respected leaders or scholars.
• Create space for testimonials that reflect the book’s impact.

Bias thrives in silence. Let your supporters speak loudly.

Bottom line: Spiritual bias in reviews is real—but it doesn’t have to define your journey. At MSI Press, we stand with authors who write from conviction, courage, and compassion. Your voice matters. Your story matters. And together, we can ensure it’s heard.

The Tuesday talks reflect real discussions between the management of MSI Press LLC and our own authors or those would-be authors who come through our doors but don't make the cut--yet. If you have a topic that you would like addressed, leave the question in the comment section. Chances are, in our 22 years of publishing first-time and experiences authors, we have had a conversation with one of our authors that we can share with you.

 See more Publisher Conversations with Authors HERE.

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