Why Book Reviews Matter More Than You Think!
Authors, use your reviews as tools!
If you're an author, chances are you've heard about the importance of book reviews. Maybe you've even lost sleep wondering how to get them or if people will still care once your book is out. The truth is, reviews play a huge role in your book’s success, not just on launch day, but over the long haul. Let’s take a moment and break down the 9-1-1 for you—the who, what, when, where, and why of book reviews so you can confidently build your review strategy without getting stressed over it. After all, authors need a good night’s sleep, too!
Why are book reviews important?
Reviews do more than feed your ego (although, let’s be honest, those five-star ones feel great). They build trust. When readers are checking out books online, reviews are one of the first things they look at. A book with several reviews, especially insightful ones, gives potential readers a sense of security. It says, “Other people read this and thought it was worth their time. Perhaps I should read it as well?”
Reviews also help with algorithms. Platforms like Amazon use review data to decide which books to recommend, rank, or promote. More reviews, particularly close to the launch date, can help push your book into more people’s search results or suggestion feeds.
And let’s not forget media and event opportunities. If you’re pitching your book to a podcast, bookstore, or book club, having strong reviews gives your pitch more weight. It’s proof that people are engaging with your work and took the time to share their feedback.
Even a “bad” review is a good review!
How many of you have ever received a “not-so-perfect” review before? Was your first instinct to react and defend yourself as the author? Don’t worry, it is only natural to worry about negative reviews, but don’t fear them, embrace them. A few critical reviews actually add credibility. If every single review is praising the book or has a five-star rating, readers might assume only your close friends chimed in. A mix of opinions makes the positive reviews feel more genuine and authentic. See, no worries at all!
Believe it or not, sometimes a "bad" review helps the right readers find your book, too. For example, if someone leaves a three-star review saying, “the book is too spiritual for me,” that might attract readers who are looking for something faith-based. And remember, engagement of any kind helps the algorithm. Those darn algorithms! Even a one-star review still counts toward your total and keeps your book visible. So don’t let the fear of imperfection stop you from asking for a review.
When should you ask for a review?
The short answer is early and often!
Ideally, you should start thinking about reviews before your book is even published. This means building a small team of early readers, often called a “launch team” or “street team,” who agree to read an advance copy (ARC) and leave a review when the book goes live. These early reviews can make a big difference in your book’s visibility in those crucial first weeks.
But don’t stop there, continue the momentum. Asking for reviews shouldn’t be a one-time push only during launch week or the next week. Continue encouraging reviews throughout the life of your book. New readers are discovering your book every day, and fresh reviews keep your book active and relevant. Even six months or a year later, reviews received here and there show that your book is still being read and talked about! So, let’s give them something to talk about!