Positive book reviews are a key ingredient in the recipe for an independent author’s success. However, many new authors that don’t already have a fan base find them to be difficult to come by. One of the easiest ways to get some traction for your book is to contact book bloggers, asking them to review your book. When doing so, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
1. Pay attention to the details of their review policy.
Each reviewer has a different policy for unsolicited review requests. Some prefer you to fill out a form, while others would like an email. Many want to read your request before they will accept your manuscript, but some may wish you to send your book’s manuscript right away. Often, reviewers request that you format your message in a specific manner, and since they likely receive many requests each day, they may discard your request without even considering it if you don’t follow their guidelines. Additionally, most reviewers are very specific about which genres of books they will or won’t consider. If your book doesn’t fit in with their taste, you would do best to pass on that reviewer.
2. Be professional and considerate.
It is always a good idea to be professional and considerate in all avenues of life. This is especially true when you are asking something of someone else. In addition to considering whether the book blogger would like to read your book, they are making a judgement on you as an author when they receive your request. By using proper grammar and observing social etiquette in your review request, you are letting potential reviewers know that you are an author that has respect for them and that you take them and their time seriously.
3. Customize your request whenever possible.
It is by far easiest to just create a form email and blast it out to every book review blogger you can find. However, you are likely to meet with better results if you let them know why you think that they would like your book. Could you include a line about how your book is similar to another book that they have recently given a high ranking? Could you look over their blog and let them know something you liked about it? Could you say something specific about your book that relates to the type or genre of book that they feature on their blog? Details like this can make a big difference in whether or not your book gets accepted for review. Additionally, showing support goes two ways. Signing up for their newsletter, following them on social media, or commenting and liking their posts indicates that you have an interest in the success of their blog.
4. If they are not currently accepting reviews, you should wait and contact them at a later time.
Many book bloggers are overwhelmed with requests and occasionally put a hold on new review requests. You may come across phrases like, “Review Requests Closed Until…” or “Unable to Accept Submissions at this Time”, or “Not Currently Accepting Review Requests”. If this is the case, you would do best to abide by their wish to not contact them and simply skip their blog for the time being. Keep track of bloggers that you passed on and check back with them after a couple of months have passed. Then, if they are again accepting submissions, you can contact them at that more appropriate time.
With all of that in mind, you’re likely ready to begin seeking book reviews for your book. Check out our directory of book reviewers for a list of hundreds of bloggers and websites where you can submit your book review request.
