How to Get More Book Reviews
Getting book reviews- even before your book is published- is one of the most important things you can do as an author.
Before you buy a book, product, or service, do you check out the reviews? Yep, me too. And, guess what? Your potential readers are looking for your reviews as well!
Getting More Reviews on Amazon
(and other places as well)
As an aspiring or self-published author, getting book reviews (even before your book is published) is incredibly important! I like to think that reviews come in two different categories: Organic and Solicited Reviews.
Organic Reviews: These are the reviews that someone leaves for you on Amazon or elsewhere without you having to reach out. It just happens- hooray!
Solicited Reviews: As a self-published author, I think it’s equally important- if not more important- to actively seek reviews. How many times have you meant to leave a review for something, but then forget? Again, me too. So a little outreach and a reminder to readers can go a long way! Here are a few examples of how to ask for reviews:
Consider exchanging books with another author and doing a review swap on your website or social media (the Amazon algorithm may detect this so I wouldn’t advise swapping reviews on that platform)
Email everyone who has purchased your book in the last month and provide them with a link to where they can review your book
Reach out to a set number of people and offer to provide a free ecopy of your book in exchange for an honest review
3 Things to Include in Every Book Review Request
Don’t forget to provide your readers with some specific information in your request! Here are 3 things that I like to include in my requests for book reviews.
A note of thanks. I typically say, “Thank you for your purchase and for supporting indie authors! To help other families find and enjoy these books, please consider leaving a review.”
Direct links to your website, Amazon, Goodreads, or any other place where they can and should post a review.
Include your social media handles and any relevant #s when asking readers to post their reviews on social media. For example, I will say, “Please feel free to tag me on Instagram at @lauren.ranalli_author and use #LetsMeetOnTheMoon and #laurenranalli so I can find your review!
Your Challenge This Week- Get More Reviews!
If you have published a book I want you to spend some time reaching out and asking for at least 5 reviews. And if you haven’t already published, I want you to spend some time making a list of at least 5-10 people you will ask for a review when you book comes out. And comment below to let me know how it goes!
Looking for more strategies to engage readers and sell more books? Let’s schedule an Author Coaching Call!