Endorsements can be obtained from many sources, including other authors, editors, agents, magazines, professional reviewers, writing and reading bloggers --almost anyone.
Many authors ask other authors for a blurb. The blurb, or positive review, can be placed in the front of the book, back of the book or even listed inside. It can also be used in your press kit and on your website. One simple statement can show readers that an author they know has thought so highly of your book that they had to tell everyone. Based on this endorsement, you have a chance to sell many more copies.
If you are writing a specific type of book, perhaps in the non-fiction category, you may be able to get an endorsement from an organization or an expert on the topic about which you wrote the book. For example, if you are marketing your cookbook, you may be able to get a review from a well known chef. If your book is on sustainable farming, ask the manager of the local farmers market to read the book and offer an endorsement. If it’s about the environment, ask an environmental group to endorse the book.
There are some websites on the Internet that charge for reviews and endorsements. As an author you need to decide if this is a good use of your money. You will also need to beware of scammers who will take your money and run, with no recourse to recover it. And they won’t provide endorsements, either. Additionally, consider whether you are paying for a positive review, which would be less then ethical. If you pay for a review, it should be unbiased. If it’s good, use it. If not, move on to another reviewer.
A review is sometimes hard to come by because it requires that the reviewer take the time to read the book. A good review is even harder to come by. So look in multiple places and find people who enjoy doing this, like review sites and blogs. Also, consider people and organizations related to your book’s topic and remember to thank them publicly on your social networks. The added visibility is a great way to repay them for taking the time to read and review your book. But don’t offer that up front, it can be considered unethical to ‘buy’ a good review with promises of any sort.
This is excellent advice and information...I have just experienced a magazine that wanted me to 'pay' for critic reviews of my book. I didn't feel comfortable about this and did some research. I found mixed reviews, more positive than negative. The ONE negative review I did find,confirmed my suspicions exactly! That was enough for me not to go down THAT path. Thanks A.L.C for having great advise from reputable and experienced sources...especially for 1st time authors