THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GETTING FREE AND PAID BOOK REVIEWS
Hey there, fellow authors!
So, you’ve just hit that glorious “Publish” button and your book is live for the world to read. Congrats! Now comes the not-so-easy part: getting reviews. Book reviews are like a stamp of approval for readers. They show that your book has been read, critiqued, and is worth investing time (and money) in.
But how do you get those reviews rolling in? Do you pay for them? Are there ethical ways to get free reviews? Should you be sending out mass emails to strangers? (Spoiler: Probably not!) Let’s break it all down, step-by-step.
Why Are Reviews So Important Anyway?
Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Reviews aren’t just about vanity or ego (though, hey, those 5 stars do feel amazing!). They have a massive impact on your book’s discoverability, credibility, and sales. Here’s why reviews are critical:
Social Proof: Potential readers want to know what others think before buying. Reviews build trust, especially for new or lesser-known authors.
Algorithm Boosting: Platforms like Amazon use reviews as part of their algorithm. The more reviews your book has, the more likely it’ll show up in “Recommended for You” sections.
Enhanced Visibility: Books with more reviews get featured in newsletters and lists on sites like BookBub, Goodreads, and Amazon.
Credibility for Future Opportunities: Positive reviews can lead to interviews, podcast features, or being stocked in bookstores.
Now that we’re clear on the “why,” let’s get into the nitty-gritty of getting those reviews—whether you’re looking to go the free or paid route.
Free Ways to Get Book Reviews
Let’s start with free options. They’re budget-friendly, and some can be time-consuming and may require some strategic planning.
1. Tap into Your Existing Network
You’d be surprised how many people in your immediate circle would be happy to read and review your book—if only you asked. Your email list, social media followers, friends, family, and colleagues can be a goldmine for initial reviews. Here’s how you can approach them without sounding pushy:
Create a Personal Request Email or Message: Address each person individually. Explain why their review matters and how it helps you. Don’t just ask for a 5-star review; ask for an honest review.
Offer a Free Copy in Exchange: This could be a PDF, epub, or even a paperback (signed, if you’re feeling generous!). Make it easy for them to get the book in the format they prefer.
Provide a Cheat Sheet: Include a brief guide on how to leave a review on Amazon, Goodreads, or wherever you want their feedback. Sometimes, people are willing but unsure of how to go about it.
Pro Tip: Don’t just aim for friends and family. Consider reaching out to past colleagues, book club members, or even that friendly barista who knows you’re an author!
2. Ask for a Review
In your book’s back matter, ask your readers for a book review. Simple as that!
To make it easier for the reader, supply links to the review pages of, say, Amazon in your two biggest markets. For example, for the US, use this URL: https://www.amazon.com/review/create-review?&asin=ADD YOUR BOOK ASIN HERE. Use a clickable link and QR code for ease of use.
Whenever a reader clicks this link, they will go straight to the review page.
3. Start an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) Group as Soon as You Can
Again, in your back matter, insert a page asking for readers to join your group, explaining they will receive a free copy of your e-book and all you require is an honest review from them. Saying that you’re giving them a free book in exchange for their review, will get you into deep water with Amazon.
Once you’ve built this list, as soon as you produce a new book, send it to them to review. Not everyone will! That’s a fact of life. But the more people on your list, the greater the number of reviews.
4. Join Reader and Reviewer Communities
There are several communities online specifically for connecting readers with authors. Here are some of the top options:
Goodreads: Search for groups dedicated to your genre and look for “Read to Review” threads where authors can offer free copies in exchange for honest feedback.
LibraryThing Early Reviewers: Similar to Goodreads but often with a smaller, more niche community. Their Early Reviewers program allows authors to give away copies to reviewers.
Facebook Groups for Book Reviews: Search for groups like “Authors Seeking Reviewers” or “Book Review Requests.” Make sure you read the group’s rules carefully before posting!
When reaching out, be clear about your book’s genre, provide a brief synopsis, and include information on where you’re willing to send copies (eBook, paperback, etc.).
5. Reach Out to Book Bloggers
Book bloggers are always looking for new reads to feature. Here’s a structured way to approach them for a book review:
Research & Personalisation: Find bloggers who review your genre. A personalised email shows you’ve read their blog and respect their preferences. Mention a specific post or review they did that you found insightful.
Craft a Solid Pitch: Keep your pitch concise but engaging. Include your book’s blurb, cover image, and why you think it’s a good fit for their audience.
Respect Their Time: Many bloggers are swamped with requests. Be prepared for rejections or no replies at all. Don’t follow up aggressively; a gentle nudge after a couple of weeks is fine.
Pro Tip: Compile a list of target bloggers and track your communication. Google Sheets works great for this, or try using tools like Trello for better visual tracking.
6. Use Review Platforms like StoryOrigin, BookFunnel, and Prolific Works
These platforms are fantastic for authors looking to build their review base while also growing their mailing list. Here’s how they work:
StoryOrigin/ BookFunnel: Offer review copies of your book to readers in exchange for a review. You can vet readers before approving their request to ensure they’re the right fit.
Prolific Works: You can set up a giveaway to attract readers, but be clear in your giveaway description that you’d love a review once they’ve finished reading.
You can also team up with other authors in your genre to do group giveaways or promotions, which can exponentially increase your reach.
7. Utilise Social Media Platforms
Leverage your existing followers and friends on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Post a review request along with a call-to-action, like:
“Hey bookish friends! 📚 I’m looking for a few people to read and review my latest book. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment or DM me if you’re interested in a free copy!”
You can even create a specific hashtag for your book and encourage your followers to use it when they post their reviews.
Paid Options for Getting Reviews
If you have a little cash to invest, paid book review services can give you access to wider audiences and more established reviewers. Here’s a deep dive into the best options available:
1. Kirkus, Clarion, and BlueInk Reviews
These are editorial review services that are highly respected in the industry. Here’s a quick rundown:
Kirkus: Known for their stringent standards, a positive Kirkus review can elevate your book’s credibility. Reviews can range from $425 (digital) to $575 (print). The downside? You don’t get to choose the reviewer, and the review is often brutally honest.
Clarion/ BlueInk: These services are more tailored to indie authors and offer detailed reviews. They’re a little more affordable than Kirkus, usually ranging from $250 to $400.
Once you get a positive review, you can use excerpts in your book’s marketing materials and blurb!
2. Hidden Gems, BookSirens, and Other Paid Review Services
These services connect you directly with reviewers who are eager to read new books. You pay a fee to list your book, and in return, you get access to readers willing to provide honest feedback. Here’s a closer look:
Hidden Gems: One of the more popular paid review services for indie authors. For around $50-$100, your book is sent to a list of vetted reviewers.
BookSirens: Charges a fee based on your book’s length and how many reviewers you want it sent to. You can even see the profiles of potential reviewers before choosing to work with them.
Reedsy Discovery: A platform where you can pay a small fee to have your book featured. Reviewers who like your book will leave reviews on Reedsy and possibly on other platforms.
Pro Tip: When using these services, always be clear that you’re looking for honest reviews. Never ask for a guaranteed positive review, as this can damage your credibility.
3. Social Media Influencer Reviews
Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok have massive communities of book reviewers (aka #Bookstagram, #BookTube, and #BookTok). Influencer reviews can introduce your book to thousands of potential readers overnight.
Here’s how to approach influencers:
Research and Connect: Find influencers who regularly review books in your genre. Follow them, engage with their content, and get a sense of their style.
Send a Professional Request: Once you’ve built a bit of rapport, send a direct message or email offering a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Be prepared to offer a compensation fee if they require it—after all, this is their job!
4. NetGalley Co-Ops
While NetGalley itself is a paid service, you can reduce costs by joining an author co-op. Co-ops are groups of authors who split the cost of a NetGalley subscription, allowing you to post your book for review at a fraction of the price.
Some popular co-ops include:
You can typically list your book for $50-$100 instead of the usual $400+ for a solo listing.
Final Thoughts and Strategies
Getting book reviews takes time, patience, and perseverance. It’s not about getting hundreds of reviews overnight but about building a community of readers who genuinely connect with your work.
For a complete guide to self-publishing, check out ‘How to Self-Publish on Amazon: The Essential Guide to Self-Publishing Success’ (2024 version).
Graham Cann is a #1 international best-selling author and CEO of Chas Cann Publishers
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Affiliate Disclosure
I earn a small commission on some product links on my blog pages at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I use now, have used in the past or would use if there was a personal need. The extra pennies help with the coffee fund.
