Tactics for Getting Reviews Ahead of the Publication of Your Book

Many of the ideas below require taking action well in advance of when you need reviewers to provide blurbs for your book. The ideas are ordered with those requiring earlier action first, although this is not a recommendation to follow them all in that order. 

Not every tactic may fit your overall strategy for marketing your book without further research. Spend some time to describe the persona of your ideal reader first. Then look for tactics you feel resonates best with your ideal reader. Locating a smaller number of potential reviewers who address your ideal reader’s persona may yield stronger reviews than targeting a broader range of reviewers who are not in line with your ideal reader.

Establish connections with potential reviewers ahead of time so your first contact isn’t a request that they provide something to you.

Join Author and Reader Communities:

Engage with online communities of authors and readers, such as writing forums, Facebook groups, or book clubs. This can help you connect with potential reviewers and build a support network.

Build Relationships in Advance:

If possible, establish relationships with potential reviewers before you need their help. Engage with them on social media, attend relevant events or conferences, and support their work in return. Building relationships can make it more likely that they'll agree to review your book.

Author Website and Social Media:

Maintain an author website and active social media profiles. Use these platforms to share updates about your book and request reviews from your followers.

Write a Compelling Pitch:

Craft a persuasive pitch or request for reviews, emphasizing why your book is unique and why the reviewer's audience would be interested. Personalize your pitches to each potential reviewer.

Query Traditional Reviewers:

Send queries to traditional book review outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, and online literary journals. These outlets often review books in advance of publication. Make sure to follow their submission guidelines.

Identify Potential Reviewers:

Create a list of potential reviewers who might be interested in your book. These can include book bloggers, influential figures in your genre, industry experts, or even friends and family.

Leverage Advance Review Copies (ARCs):

Create Advance Review Copies (ARCs) of your book and distribute them to potential reviewers. ARCs are pre-publication copies that allow reviewers to read your book before it's released. Include a cover letter explaining your expectations for the review.

Utilize Online Review Platforms:

Websites like NetGalley and Goodreads allow authors to share ARCs with a broader audience, including readers and professional reviewers. Many reviewers actively seek books on these platforms.

Create a Press Kit:

Develop a professional press kit for your book, including a synopsis, author bio, high-resolution cover image, and sample chapters. This makes it easier for potential reviewers to consider your work.

Offer Incentives:

Some authors offer small incentives for early reviewers, such as personalized thank-you notes, signed copies, or exclusive content related to the book.

Timing Matters:

Approach potential reviewers well in advance of your book's release date. Reviewers often have busy schedules, so give them ample time to read and write their reviews.

Be Professional and Grateful: