Virtually every writing or opinion site has a method for writers to create a list of others they enjoy reading or respect. The intention, I think, of the sites is to provide a way to show which writers are most appreciated by their peers. Many people use these lists in other ways.

This is how I use the Trusted Circle.

The first time encounter a reviewer and am impressed with their writing I will go to their profile and read a few of their other reviews (if there are any). If I enjoy these as well-I’ll add them to my trusted list. I don’t have to agree with someone’s opinion to trust them. I have to respect the way they state their opinions.

When I read a review that is less than stellar but the writer seems sincere and is new, I make note of the name. As soon as that person’s reviews start to reflect that they have responded to constructive comments by other members and they are trying to raise the quality of their work, they merit my trust.


If I you choose to trust me-I thank you-I hope you have done so because you feel my writing supports the site. If I haven’t read your reviews, I will, of course, give you that courtesy. Whether I choose to add you to my list will be based on that. If you email me and ask me to trust you-I’ll ignore your request.

I haven’t and won’t use the ’’distrust’’ side of the list. I can’t think of a reason to distrust a reviewer. The reasons I would consider, such as plagiarism and abuse of others, are well dealt with by MS.

In a nutshell-If you write your reviews with thought and seek to improve your work and this site-I will trust you.