10 Proven Strategies to Boost Book Reviews Without Breaking the Bank
What are legit options? Let's discuss!
When it comes to getting book reviews, there are some truly cost-effective strategies you can consider. Here’s what I use for my own books and my clients:
1. Leverage Social Media
Social media serves several functions: connection, relationship-building, and visibility. Consistently use platforms like X(formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook to connect with potential readers, book bloggers, and reviewers.
Engage with their content, build relationships, and politely inquire if they'd be interested in reviewing your books once you’ve established rapport.
Use relevant hashtags on each social channel: #BookTwitter or #BookX, #WritersofIG #BookTok #BookTube #books #amwriting are all relevant. I do not recommend the #writerslift hashtag - it’s all about following each other and self-promo.
Ask yourself: how does this benefit my intention and strategy? If it doesn’t, spend the time elsewhere.
Tip: Be polite and respectful. You are asking for a favor - even if you provide a free review copy. That said, get to know your potential betas - are they able and willing to provide feedback? If not, pass.
Cost: $0
2. Don’t Forget About Goodreads
Goodreads is a fantastic platform for book lovers and reviewers. Set up author profiles, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. You can also offer giveaways! Learn more here.
There are two types of GR giveaways: Ebook and print. You decide which works best for you. The eBook option is less expensive, and GR provides the fulfillment.
Tip: Even if your book isn’t available yet, you can still join GR as a reader. Same with BookBub. Why? To connect with readers. Share what you’re reading, leave reviews, etc.
Cost: $0 up to $600 for the Premium giveaway option.
3. Book Review Blogs
Look for book review blogs that align with your genre(s). Many blogs accept review requests and are open to traditional and indie authors.
Make sure to read their submission guidelines carefully and craft a personalized pitch.
I’ve worked with Suzy Approved Book Tours with great results. Her book bloggers leave reviews of your books on Goodreads/Amazon, feature you on their Instagram, X, FB, and TikTok posts about your book, and often share an accompanying blog post.
Tip: She’s booking into mid-2024, so get in touch with her if you’re launching a book.
Your mileage may vary.
Cost: $0 to $600.
4. NetGalley and BookSprout
These platforms allow authors to provide advance reader copies (ARCs) in exchange for reviews. While there might be some costs involved, it's an effective way to get reviews from a dedicated reading audience.
Read more specific tips here about NetGalley and here for BookSprout.
Cost: $0 to $300.
5. Beta Readers
Consider finding beta readers who are willing to read your books free (or at a minimal cost) in exchange for an early look.
Their feedback can be valuable, and some may post reviews once the book is published.
Tip: If your book is available on Amazon for pre-order (ebook or print), beta readers can often leave early reviews on Goodreads, NetGalley, BookSprout, BookBub, and other sites, generating pre-launch buzz and visibility.
More here from Jane Friedman.
Cost: $0 to paid options up to $250.
6. Author-Reader Groups
Engage with author-reader groups on platforms like Facebook, X, Goodreads, TikTok, here on Substack, and/or Discord — wherever you connect with folks.
These communities can be a great source of reviewers who are genuinely interested in the genre.
Where do these magical groups exist? I’ve found the best luck with social media DM groups and communities. Can’t find a group you love? Start your own!
That’s how I started #BookMarketingChat way back about eight years ago on X(formerly Twitter), which still continues to this day every Wednesday at 11 am pst/2 pm est.
Do we follow each other? I’m @BadRedheadMedia on X (and everywhere else).
Cost: $0.
7. Book Review Swaps
Networking with fellow writers can be beneficial if you go about it carefully. You can exchange reviews with other authors in your genre; however, it's essential to ensure honest and ethical reviewing practices.
E.g., if someone contacts you and asks for only 5-star reviews, walk away.
Amazon review guidelines allow for you to provide free copies, but you cannot require an exchange for review:
“You may provide free or discounted copies of your books to readers, as long as you do not require a review in exchange or attempt to influence the review. Offering anything other than a free or discounted copy of the book, including gift cards, will invalidate a review, and the Amazon Community team will remove it.” (KDP Review guidelines)
Cost: $0.
8. LibraryThing
LT offers opportunities for authors to give away review copies to members in exchange for honest reviews. It's another avenue to explore.
Cost: $0.
9. Email Marketing
If you have a mailing list, you can ask subscribers if anyone would like to review your book(s). Subscribers often appreciate the opportunity to get early access to content.
This also helps with your pre-release launch buzz as well. Want to learn more about growing your email sub list? Read here:
The BEST Way To Grow Your Subscriber List
You probably know that growing your email subscriber list can be an extremely effective and efficient way to grow your readership. What is the best way I’ve found to grow email subscriber lists? Booksweeps! * *I am not an affiliate, so there is no financial gain to me if you use their services. I’ve grown my own and my au…
Cost: $0.
10. Audio/Visual Spaces
Under-utilized and totally free! You want to use audio spaces and visuals to connect with readers, build relationships, establish your expertise, and sell your books because they offer you a unique way to connect with your audience.
I often (at least once/month) interview author guests for their book launches on my weekly #BookMarketingChat, which has put me on a new path toward gathering sponsors and paid opportunities beyond social media.
When you speak directly to your readers through platforms like XSpaces, Clubhouse, podcasts, or live readings, you're inviting them into your world, letting them hear the passion in your voice as you share your story.
Visual content complements this by painting a vivid picture of your book's universe. These multimedia approaches deepen the emotional bond between you and your readers, making them more likely to invest in your work.
Cost: $0.
Bottom line: Getting reviews takes consistency, strategy, and patience. Your biggest investment is time.
Building relationships is key.
Approach potential reviewers respectfully, and don't push too hard for positive reviews. Ethics is the only option here.
Authenticity is essential in the world of book reviews. Good luck in your quest!
So many good ideas here. Thank you, Rachel.
Two things as a prolific reviewer across nearly every genre (sorry, fantasy writers):
1) If you're doing the business side of being an author with intention, you already know who is writing books similar to yours. Find their reviews on Goodreads and (*gently* and *politely*) contact reviewers whose work you like and ask if they'd be interested in reviewing your similar work. Completely free.
2) I get several requests a month from authors who found me on BookSirens.com, and I've actually reviewed a couple of their books - including at least one review posted here to Substack (The Hunted by Steven Max Russo). I don't know the pricing for authors to use that site, but it is at least one option. :)
Good luck!