How to Get Book Reviews that Build Trust and Sales

Overview

For authors, book reviews are more than just feedback—they are powerful tools that build credibility, attract readers, and increase sales. Positive reviews reassure potential buyers, create social proof, and can even help your book appear higher in online search results. But if you’re new to publishing, you might be wondering how to get book reviews effectively. From free reviews to professional editorial feedback, this guide shows authors how to gather honest, impactful reviews that boost your book’s visibility and reputation. Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a publisher, understanding the right strategies ensures your book gets noticed. In this article, you’ll learn how to get reviews for your book, how to leverage professional and editorial reviews, and even how some authors get paid for reviewing books.

Why Book Reviews Matter for Authors

Book reviews are far more than just stars and ratings—they are a form of social proof that can make or break your book’s success. Readers often rely on reviews to decide whether a book is worth their time and money. For authors, reviews serve multiple purposes beyond boosting credibility.

Build Trust: Honest, thoughtful reviews signal that your book has been read and appreciated. Readers are more likely to trust authentic opinions over marketing copy. For example, a thriller author whose readers praise the book’s suspenseful twists creates a sense of reliability, encouraging new readers to click “buy.” Even a few well-written reviews can establish authority in your genre.

Increase Visibility: Platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and Barnes & Noble algorithms favor books with consistent positive reviews. The more reviews you have, the higher your book may appear in search results or recommendation lists. This visibility can attract readers who might not have discovered your work otherwise. For instance, a self-published romance with dozens of positive reviews can appear on “Customers Also Bought” lists, increasing organic discoverability.

Boost Sales: Reviews act as endorsements that encourage readers to make a purchase. A book with 50+ positive reviews tends to sell significantly better than one with only a handful. Potential buyers often read multiple reviews before committing, so the content of reviews—highlighting storytelling, character development, or research depth—can directly influence sales.

Provide Feedback: Constructive reviews offer valuable insights for improving future books or series continuity. Authors can identify patterns in reader feedback, such as pacing issues or character development critiques, and use these to strengthen subsequent projects. For example, if readers mention that a fantasy world-building section felt confusing, the author can clarify or expand these elements in sequels.

Marketing Leverage: Glowing reviews can be highlighted in book blurbs, on your website, or in social media campaigns. Editorial reviews or professional critiques can also be used in press releases, newsletters, or advertisements, adding credibility and encouraging media coverage. Positive reviews can even open doors to podcast interviews, book club features, and blog spotlights, creating a snowball effect of visibility.

Reader Engagement: Reviews foster community around your work. Responding to reader reviews—thanking them or addressing constructive feedback—builds rapport and loyalty. Engaged readers are more likely to recommend your books to friends, share them on social media, and leave further reviews. For example, authors who personally reply to reviews on Goodreads often see increased engagement and repeat readership.

In short, a strong review strategy strengthens your brand as an author, builds trust, improves visibility, and directly impacts sales. By actively seeking honest feedback and leveraging positive reviews in your book marketing, you create a virtuous cycle of credibility, exposure, and reader loyalty.

How to Get Book Reviews Before Publishing

Building buzz before your book goes live is crucial. Early reviews can drive initial sales and establish credibility. Here’s how:

1. Beta Readers

Beta readers are early reviewers who provide honest feedback. Reach out to avid readers in your genre. Their insights help you fix plot holes, character inconsistencies, or pacing issues. Beta readers often leave public reviews once your book launches, providing authentic, trustworthy opinions.

Example: A mystery author can give beta readers the first three chapters and ask questions like: “Did you find the clues engaging?” Feedback like this can shape the book and result in early positive reviews.

2. Advance Review Copies (ARCs)

ARCs allow readers and reviewers to read your book before release. Tools like NetGalley, BookSprout, and StoryOrigin let you distribute digital or print copies. Authors who use ARCs often receive dozens or even hundreds of reviews pre-launch.

Example: Self-published author Sarah James distributed 50 ARCs via NetGalley for her fantasy novel and received 30 reviews within two weeks. This early momentum boosted her Amazon rankings.

3. Friends and Family

While these reviews may not always be public, they provide valuable feedback for final tweaks. Ensure they focus on constructive criticism. Avoid generic praise—specific notes on what worked and what didn’t are most useful.

4. Online Communities

Platforms like Goodreads, Reddit’s r/BookClub, or Facebook groups allow authors to request reviews. Engage genuinely by participating in discussions rather than just posting “review requests.”

Example: Authors in a thriller-focused Facebook group shared excerpts and offered free copies in exchange for honest reviews. This approach generated both feedback and organic promotion.

How to Get Free Book Reviews

You don’t need to spend money to get meaningful reviews. Free reviews can come from multiple sources:

• Goodreads: Join the Goodreads Author program. Offer free copies through giveaways to attract honest reviews.
• Book Bloggers: Bloggers specialize in reviewing books within specific genres. Reach out individually and personalize requests. Highlight why your book fits their audience.
• Social Media Followers: Instagram, TikTok (BookTok), and Twitter are powerful platforms. Give free copies to engaged followers in exchange for reviews.
• Library Patrons: If your book is available in libraries, readers may post reviews on Goodreads or Amazon. Hosting library events can encourage reviews.

Free reviews are effective when they reflect genuine opinions. Focusing on readers who enjoy your genre ensures meaningful feedback that resonates with similar audiences.

How to Get Paid for Book Reviews

Some platforms allow you to get paid to write book reviews, indirectly benefiting authors:

• Reedsy Discovery: Submit your book, and professional reviewers can earn rewards for their reviews.
• Freelance Review Networks: Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or dedicated review forums allow paid reviewers to critique books professionally.

Paid reviewers can provide in-depth feedback. Authors benefit by building relationships and gaining credibility. However, paid reviews must remain honest to maintain trust.

How to Get Editorial Reviews for Your Book

Editorial reviews from credible sources hold significant weight. Here’s how to get them:

1. Publishers’ Review Sections: Submit your book to literary magazines, newspapers, or journals.
2. Independent Review Services: Services like Kirkus Reviews, BlueInk Review, and Foreword Reviews provide paid editorial reviews for self-published authors.
3. Local Media Outlets: Newspapers, radio, and blogs may feature reviews after interviews or events.

Editorial reviews are especially valuable for nonfiction, memoirs, or professional guides. They can be featured on book covers, online listings, or press kits.

How to Get More Book Reviews After Self-Publishing

Getting reviews post-publishing requires strategy:

• Email Subscribers: Offer free copies or bonus content in exchange for honest reviews.
• Follow-Up Requests: Send polite reminders 1–2 weeks after purchase asking readers to leave feedback.
• Book Launch Events: Provide ARCs or signed copies during launch events for review incentives.
• Reader Groups and Book Clubs: Engaging book clubs can result in multiple reviews.

Consistency matters. The more readers you reach, the more reviews you receive. Regularly encouraging reviews ensures your book maintains momentum long after launch.

Tips for Getting Professional Book Reviews

Professional reviews build credibility quickly:

• Target Genre-Specific Reviewers: Reviewers specialized in your category have more influence.
• Provide Clear Submission Guidelines: Include format preferences, deadlines, and book versions.
• Follow Up Respectfully: Polite reminders increase response rates without pressure.
• Highlight Early Praise: Early positive feedback strengthens your submission.

Professional reviews are ideal for marketing materials, author websites, and press kits.

NY Book Publishers Is Here to Help You Get Genuine Book Reviews

At NY Book Publishers, we provide comprehensive book publishing services designed to help your work succeed. From writing and editing to publishing, cover design, and marketing, we guide authors at every step. Our team ensures your book is polished, professional, and ready to impress readers. Beyond creating high-quality books, we help you get genuine reviews that build trust and credibility. Through targeted outreach, connections with reviewers, and effective promotional strategies, we make sure your book reaches the right audience. With our expertise, your work gains the visibility and recognition it deserves, making it easier to attract honest reviews that boost your sales and strengthen your author brand.

GET REVIEWS FOR YOUR BOOK

Build Trust and Boost Sales with Reviews

We hope this guide will help you understand how to get book reviews that truly make a difference. Reviews are not just feedback—they’re a marketing tool. Using beta readers, ARCs, free reviews, editorial feedback, and paid networks ensures your book reaches the right audience. Honest, authentic reviews resonate with readers and boost visibility on platforms like Amazon, Goodreads, and more. By making reviews a core part of your publishing strategy, you can build trust, credibility, and sales over time. Start gathering reviews early, engage with your readers, and make reviews a consistent part of your author journey.

FAQs

Does Amazon pay you to review books?

No, Amazon does not pay reviewers. Reviews should always reflect honest opinions of the reader.

How to become a reviewer and get paid?

Platforms like Reedsy Discovery and freelance networks allow you to review books for compensation.

Can I get paid by reviewing books?

Yes, but reviewers must provide honest and constructive feedback.

How to get started as a book reviewer?

Join communities like Goodreads, Reddit, or Book Blogger networks to start reviewing and building credibility.

How to start being a reviewer?

Select your favorite genres, read actively, and submit reviews to online platforms or blogs.