How to Navigate and Get Book Reviews
Authors may become deeply engaged in their creative process when writing books, constructing characters, designing plots and perfecting sentences. However, in the midst of the author’s vision, it is easy to lose sight of what the reader expects from us. And that is why it is crucial to get book reviews.
Reach Out to Your Mailing List
Building a mailing list should be among the first marketing strategies for authors. It gives you direct access to your readers and lets them know a new project is in the pipeline. However, you can also use the mailing list to get book reviews. Simply craft a general message but be sure to personalize it by adding specific names of your audience, then politely ask them to review your work.
Encourage your audience to be as honest as possible in their reviews. One important thing to remember is that you’re not selling the book when asking for reviews, so instead of selling your work, provide free copies.
Talk to Book Bloggers
You can also get reviews by contacting book bloggers who have dedicated their sites to reviewing books. These bloggers work on specific genres, so you may want to look at their sites first to determine if they’ll accept your book. Although we mentioned mailing lists, you may want to avoid using e-mails when contacting book bloggers and other reviewers.
The main reason is that your message is likely to be spammed, meaning they may not be able to see your e-mail in time. Instead, go directly to their website contact form and drop a message there. Be precise but ensure that all messages are personalized.
Importantly, leave a link to your book or ask how to deliver a free copy to them. After your review copies, ask if they received your materials and politely inquire about their review timeline.
Research Book Critics
Look for critics who have reviewed books with the same style, genre or theme as yours. A straightforward way to do this is to search for the reviewers online. Visit various book review websites, literary magazines and social media platforms.
Once you find reviewers, make it easy for them to access your book. Include any additional materials, such as a press kit or author bio. The copies to be reviewed must be free and in the most preferred format.
Ensure your pitch is compelling and well-written without grammatical or spelling mistakes. Isn’t this the best opportunity to start showcasing your writing prowess? Also, highlight your book’s uniqueness and why it may interest the reviewers’ audience.
Check Review Policies
Some reviewers may have specific requirements for submitting books for review, such as when they accept reviews and preferred genres, formats or timelines. Others may insist on getting paid a specific fee before they can look at your work.
That means adhering to your reviewer’s book submission guidelines and policies is crucial. Always ask for more clarification if necessary.
Wrap Up
Given that you have the timeline with which your reviewers promised to review your work, you can always follow up on the progress once this period elapses. You don’t want to badger anyone. So, be respectful and polite, and don’t send several messages. The goal is to maintain a professional and long relationship.
They may be unable to review your work, but you can always count on them in the future, particularly if you plan to write more books.
