Reviews matter. Not because you need validation (though it’s nice). But because reviews are social proof. They tell readers, algorithms, librarians, booksellers and festival programmers that your book exists — and that real humans have read it. So let’s cut through the hand-wringing and look at exactly how to get reviews — and what to do once you have them.
You’ve written the book.
Edited it.
Formatted it.
Uploaded it.
Hit publish.
Then comes the part most authors don’t expect to feel quite so awkward: Asking people to review it.
Reviews matter. Not because you need validation (though it’s nice). But because reviews are social proof. They tell readers, algorithms, librarians, booksellers and festival programmers that your book exists — and that real humans have read it.
So let’s cut through the hand-wringing and look at exactly how to get reviews — and what to do once you have them.
No gimmicks. Just what works.
What Counts As A Review?
A review is any reader feedback posted publicly. Common places:
- Amazon
- Goodreads
- Kobo
- Apple Books
- BookBub
- Blogs
- Social media posts
- Newspaper or magazine reviews
- Library newsletters
Short is fine. One sentence counts. Stars count. Long thoughtful reviews are gold — but don’t hold out for perfection.
How To Get Your First Reviews
1. Start with your beta-readers:They already read the draft and have opinions.
When your book is published, send a simple message:
“Thank you again for beta-reading. If you feel comfortable leaving an honest review now that the book is live, I’d be incredibly grateful.”
No pressure. No guilt. Just an invitation.
2. Ask your mailing list
If you have even a small email list, use it.
Subject line: Would you be willing to leave a quick review?
Body: Short explanation. Link to the review page. One or two sentences of appreciation. Keep it easy. If it feels complicated, people won’t do it.
3. Ask at the back of your book
Add one simple line: If you enjoyed this book, a short review helps more than you know. Thank you for taking a moment to share your thoughts.
That line quietly collects reviews for years.
4. Offer advance review copies (ARCs)
Before launch, send digital copies to:
- Writing community friends
- Genre readers
- Bloggers
- Bookstagrammers
- BookTok creators
- Local reviewers
Ask only for honest reviews. Never demand positivity. Platforms hate that — and so do readers.
5. Approach local media
In Australia, local coverage still matters.
- Community newspapers
- Regional radio
- Library blogs
- Council newsletters
- Local arts websites
Send a short pitch and a review copy. Many are happy to support local authors.
6. Use your community
If you’re part of a writers’ group or an online author network — ask politely. Most writers understand review karma. You review mine, I’ll review yours.
Just keep it ethical: only review books you’ve actually read.
What not to do
- Don’t pay for fake reviews
- Don’t ask family to review if they haven’t read it
- Don’t offer gifts in exchange for positive reviews
- Don’t copy and paste the same review across platforms yourself (yes, people try)
Shortcuts backfire. Every time.
Now: What To Do With Your Reviews
This is where many authors drop the ball. Reviews aren’t just for online stores. They’re marketing assets. Use reviews in:
- Social media graphics
- Website testimonials
- Book cover redesigns
- Press releases
- Author media kits
- Festival and event pitches
- Grant applications
- Library ordering pitches
A single good line can sell hundreds of books.
Turn reviews into shareable content
Pull out short quotes:
⭐ “Couldn’t put it down.”
⭐ “Heartbreaking and hopeful.”
⭐ “A fresh Australian voice.”
Drop them on simple branded graphics. Post regularly. Let your readers do your marketing for you.
Add reviews to your metadata
When listing books on platforms like:
- BookTree
- IngramSpark
- Nielsen Title Editor
- Your own website
Strong review quotes increase discoverability and purchasing confidence.
Use reviews to understand your audience
Patterns in feedback tell you:
- Which characters resonated
- Which pacing worked
- Which themes landed
That’s free market research for your next book.
How Many Reviews Do You Need?
Honestly? The first 10–20 reviews are the hardest and the most important. After that, momentum builds naturally.
Don’t obsess over numbers. Focus on steady, genuine accumulation.
A Final Truth
Every author feels weird asking for reviews the first time. Then you realise that readers who enjoyed your book are usually happy to help — they just need a nudge and an easy link.
Make it simple. Make it genuine. Say thank you.
That’s the whole system.