Posted on Tuesday, 10th February 2009 by CopywritingCat
Let’s face it: these days the reviews that count are not all in the print media. They’re mostly on Amazon.
Today I’ll write about how NOT to get your book reviewed. Tomorrow I’ll share more how-tos.
I am horrified when I hear what some authors go through trying to get books reviewed on Amazon. Since I get quite a few requests, I have discovered some ways these authors could save themselves much grief (and money, too.
Do NOT hire someone to write reviews for you. I looked up one company that promises to review books for a fee — something like $15-25 for one review of one book.
This is a huge waste of money. Use the money to budget to send review copies to prolific Amazon authors. In my last post, I mentioned 3 books I discovered that way: the authors sent me copies. They were great books. I wrote enthusiastic reviews. Nobody had to pay me.
Hundreds of experienced, competent Amazon reviewers are happy to review your book - free. And we’re not exactly hard to find.
Anyway, one or two great reviews will not save your book. Even if one or two people absolutely love your book and tell the world, they can’t save your book.
Do NOT approach reviewers who have never reviewed in your category. Recently I was asked to review a book on eating disorders in teens. I know nothing about eating disorders and even less than nothing about teens. This query was a waste of the author’s time and mine.
Do NOT ask reviewers, “Do you review books on..” You should already know the reviewer’s scope before you approach her.
Do NOT ask reviewers to write a review based on one chapter or a pdf version of the book.
Do NOT hound reviewers. They’re busy. Often I’m operating with a backlog so a review might not appear for a few weeks or months after I receive the book.
Do NOT complain about your review. If you insist on only positive reviews, pay a service or ask your friends. And live with the consequences.
Do NOT spend a lot of money on packaging. Often I suspect the authors spent more on packaging than on editing and marketing strategy. A beautiful package – gold wrapping, glossy flyers – won’t compensate for a poorly written book.
In fact, nothing will compensate for a bad book. You may be able to blast your way to best seller status with a big campaign. But you won’t get authentic five-star reviews.
To learn more, check out my new product: Boost Business With Amazon Book Reviews.
Free class Thursday: Go here.
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Tags: book marketing, business strategy, client attraction
Posted in creativity, networking, strategy, writing a book
