Hello again, and welcome back! What I want to talk about today is something that can be make or break for any author (not just us self-published folks). Reviews hold a huge sway in most readers choices on what they do and don't buy. I have put together a short list of ways to get reviews in a hurry to help boost your work in the ratings, and hopefully land your story in the hands of a lot more readers. Here we go!
I am a member of this site as a reviewer, and let me tell you a not so well kept secret, THERE ARE A LOT OF US! They have a form to submit your published works for reviewers to download and review. Please be aware that these reviews tend to be in depth, and while no one is trying to hurt your feelings, they can be critical. Price wise, this one will cost you, but it comes with extra tools and tips and marketing help which makes the price tag not bad at all!
2. Pubby.co
This one is another good choice for getting some quick boost reviews. Their turn around time is usually only a few days, and right now they are offering a 10 day free trial. After those 10 days are up, they have a monthly subscription service. Paying for a whole month of unlimited reviews vs paying per revies? Yes Please!!!
These guys are really cool. With them you get a free author's page, a seal that you can use on your book covers (who doesn't do a double take when they see a shiny seal on a book cover right?!) and a lot of other options! When you submit with them you are also set up to review others. Nothing like a little community support!
These guys are one of my favorites so far! Right now they are running a special where they will set up a book give away and it doesn't cost you a thing! Catch is that they will only do one free one for each author, but if you want to do more with them afterwards, their fees are really pretty low. If you have any questions you can email them, and the response time is one of the fastest I have seen so far!
5. Friends & Family!
I know this one sounds a little bit like a no brainer, but this one is one of the hardest ones I have tried so far. Even if your friends and family are super supportive (like mine :) ) It can still take a long time for them to post reviews. Don't give up on them though! Drop a few hints here and there and they can most definitely be your biggest supporters!
There it is guys, my top 5 ways to get reviews. Remember when using anything like these services above that you double check the rules for reviews with whoever you publish with. Whether it be Amazon, Google Play, Kobo, or any multitude of other self publishing options out there, make sure you follow their rules to the letter! It is tricky enough to get those first reviews, you don't want to risk them being pulled down over something silly.
Happy Reading Everyone! -AR
Comments