Book reviews are a critical, but challenging part of any book’s marketing strategy. Whether building awareness among readers, or getting bookstores to consider your book for placement, reviews are an essential element when trying to increase interest in your book. Readers often rely on reviews to determine whether or not they will purchase a book, and key decision-makers such as literary agents, book buyers, and librarians rely on reviews to demonstrate an author’s credibility and quality of writing.
There are two main types of book reviews: consumer or reader reviews on websites like Amazon and Goodreads, and independent, professional reviews from reputable outlets like newspapers and trade magazines or online journals. Both require effort on the part of an author, but professional reviews also require careful research and adherence to specific submission guidelines.
Professional reviews, especially from established, well-known outlets, serve as third-party endorsements. When a respected reviewer praises your book, it signals to readers, librarians, booksellers, and even media outlets that your work is worth paying attention to. There are many benefits to acquiring professional reviews for your book including:
Credibility and Authority: A review from a source like Kirkus Reviews adds social proof that reader reviews simply can't match. It shows that a skilled reader has found value in your book, making decision-makers more inclined to pay attention. This kind of testimonial is invaluable, particularly for indie authors without the backing of a traditional publishing house.
Library and Bookstore Interest: Librarians and other book buyers rely on professional book reviews to help make their purchasing decisions. Librarians in charge of collection development don't have the time to go through all of the catalogs of books available, so they look to well-known, trusted sources to guide their acquisitions.
Award and Media Opportunities: Books with strong professional reviews are more likely to be considered for literary awards, media interviews, and promotional opportunities. Review quotes can be included in award submissions and press kits, demonstrating your book’s legitimacy.
Increased Networking Opportunities: Positive professional reviews often open doors for future collaborations and connections within the literary community, broadening your professional network. They can also improve your chances of getting speaking engagements or other opportunities related to your book.
Elevated Marketing Materials: Excerpts from professional book reviews can be featured on your book cover, website, sell sheet, and more. They can also be used in advertising campaigns, enticing potential readers to want to learn more.
The easiest place to search for outlets that write and publish book reviews is the internet. While some outlets still have print publications, many of them have digital publications only. To save you time in your research, here is a list of some of the most reputable book review outlets:
BlueInk Review Book Forum BookLife Booklist Book Marks Book Reporter City Book Review Compulsive Reader Foreword Independent Book Review IndieReader Kirkus LA Review of Books Library Journal Literary Titan Midwest Book Review New York Review of Books New York Times Online Book Club Pacific Book Review Prairies Book Reviews Publisher's Weekly Reviews PW Select Readers' Favorite Book Reviews Reader Views Self-Publishing Review Washington Independent Review of Books
You might also find genre-specific review outlets, so before submitting to an outlet, confirm they are accepting and reviewing books in your genre. If an outlet requires a fee in exchange for a guaranteed review, do your research to make sure they are reputable and are a trusted source for libraries, agents, and book buyers. Reputable outlets will provide a completely honest, unbiased review, whether positive or negative.
Some professional review outlets offer tiered options. For example, they may have a free tier with a long lead time, and if you need the review expedited, you will have to pay a fee ranging from $50 – several hundred dollars. Others offer additional features and services in exchange for a fee such as promotional opportunities. Whether or not you decide to invest money in a professional book review will depend on your specific goals and marketing budget. If your budget allows, it can be a very worthwhile investment.
It can be challenging to acquire professional book reviews since only a small percentage of book submissions are chosen by these outlets. We always recommend putting your best foot forward when submitting your book for any opportunities including contests, interviews, and reviews. This means having your book professionally edited and fully polished prior to submissions.
For self-published or independently published books, it’s especially important to do your research and find the outlets that are more likely to consider a submission from an independent author. If you’ve already published your book, you will need to search to find outlets that accept previously published books. Many will only accept books prior to publication, so it’s important to start the process of submissions at least a few months out from your book’s release date. Some require submissions to be at least six months prior to publication.
Once you’ve identified the outlets you wish to contact, make sure you understand and follow ALL submission guidelines. These guidelines can differ greatly between outlets, and you will likely be automatically rejected if your submission contains errors, unnecessary details, or missing information.
Some common submission requirements include:
A physical or PDF copy of your book (some outlets may require more than one physical copy) Your book’s metadata such as genre, ISBN, price, release date, number of pages, etc. Your contact information A brief book description or summary
Once you’ve acquired some positive professional reviews, be sure to use them to your advantage. Not only do libraries, bookstores, and literary agents give weight to these reviews, but many readers and other industry decision-makers do as well. These types of accolades may help you get media attention, speaking opportunities, additional distribution, and more sales! Here are eight ways to use these reviews in your marketing efforts:
As with most book marketing initiatives, acquiring professional book reviews is an ongoing effort that requires strategic thinking, research, and planning. It is well worth the work because the more positive book reviews you have, the more attention and opportunities your book will receive, ultimately leading to more sales. Just remember, it’s never too late to start campaigning for book reviews, both reader and professional! Use the above insights and resources to help get you started.
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