Depending on your publisher, early review copies of your books may be sent to recognized reviewers in hopes of creating a buzz. In the present day of small presses and self-published works, and considering that even the “big houses” are not guaranteed their books will be reviewed, what can you do to increase your visibility and get the word out about your book?
Prior to publication many publishers will use a cache of readers who will provide favorable blurbs that can be quoted on book jackets, intros and industry sales packages. Quotes from other published writers are also a popular marketing tool in building the hype. Professional review houses prefer receiving copies approximately three months in advance of publication, but it is never too late to seek reviews from other sources.
No matter what efforts your publisher put into contacting reviewers, there are things you can do to increase your visibility and stimulate interest in your book. Online sellers Amazon and Barnes and Noble allow the “everyday reader” to post reviews. While it isn’t the worst idea to ask your friends and family to post reviews, it can be risky – too many flowery and same tone reviews are liable to be seen as just that, phony reviews meant just to impress. Most readers will acknowledge that personal taste can vary and so can reviews.
Don’t be terribly upset if not every review carries a 4 or 5 star rating. If a few less than favorable reviews show up and these reviews are in the minority, it will actually work to make your good reviews more credible. Some review sites make it a practice not to post unfavorable reviews without consulting the author first. Amazon also offers an opportunity to have overly critical and inappropriate reviews deleted from the site – you must contact Amazon and tell them why you feel the review is inaccurate (a competing author or the use of a false identity?), they will review it and give you their decision in a few days. (*very few authors claim success in having bad reviews removed)
Reviews are helpful in attracting potential readers. Quotes can be used in press packages, even if they are about previous books, when trying to encourage newspaper coverage or review sites to look at a new book. Interesting reviews are also a good way to liven up a back-list title (so it is never too late to welcome a review). Reviews are helpful in attracting attention from potential publishers for new material as well. Be aware that reviewers are supposed to disclose if they have been paid or otherwise compensated in exchange for their review.
How can you go about getting reviews? Search for professional review sites online; be sure to read their submission guidelines noting deadlines, whether they will review ebooks or print, genres and often if your book is self-pubbed or small press. Many individual bloggers will offer to review books, again conduct an internet search for similar genres and contact the blogger to ask. Many writers’ forums like GoodReads will offer opportunities to solicit reviews. On sites like Amazon, look for frequent reviewers of books in your genre and use the “friends invite” to send a personal message.
You may find that you are contacted for reviews or pre-publication blurbs. It is a good opportunity to promote your name IF you can handle the time commitment. Be honest, but try to avoid harsh statements – remember constructive criticism is always much more helpful in reviews than unnecessary negative comments. If you are asked for a pre-pub blurb, they are hoping for something positive; don’t lie. If you honestly can’t say something positive, let the author (or publisher) know that. If you praise a truly horrible story, your name will be linked to that forever.
Writing exercise: What would you want to read about a book that would encourage you to go out and buy it to read? Try writing a few brief and honest reviews about the most recent books you’ve read. Critique your review – did it contain spoilers, was it on topic, did you use constructive criticism where necessary?
Writing prompt: Talk about the weather. The northern hemisphere is halfway through the winter and in most of North America it’s been brutal. Make up the weather report that you WANT for tomorrow. What problems would be caused if your weather prediction came true? (such as suddenly melting piles of snow…)
