As an author, I’ve come to realize that book reviews really do a lot. They’re like word-of-mouth recommendations, but ones left for anyone in the future to see. Reviews help potential readers decide if my book is worth their time and money, and they can have as much sway as the book cover or description!
Believe it or not, even 1-star book reviews help inform someone if my books are what they’re looking for. (Although, I prefer to see the nicer reviews, I am a tender creative at heart!)
And having enough reviews can make or break my career.
Why you should leave an honest book review
I understand that it can be daunting to leave a review, especially if you’re not sure what to say. Just remember, your honest opinion is invaluable.
• Did you have a part you loved? See if you can say it without spoiling.
• Did you have a part you hated? Let future buyers know so they can decide if that’s a deal breaker.
• Is there a quote that made you go “whoa”? I’ll only die happy if you tell me which one.
No author should ever make you feel pressured to give a 5-star rating if you don’t believe the book deserves it, but we do ask for your consideration. We’re people. It takes a surprising amount of courage to write a book and that much courage again to publish it where people can see.
If you feel you have direct feedback, you’re also free to point that out, but typos and other fixable and temporary problems are best communicated privately. I have a book-bug channel in my discord for this very thing. Kind readers pop in and help me present my best work every day. Sometimes they even stick around to become alpha or beta readers!
At the end of the day, I couldn’t do what I do without an audience. Knowing there are people out there who are having fun reading what I wrote is, honestly, so motivating. I couldn’t do it without you!
As an indie author, every review helps enable me to continue to write and publish. So please, take a moment to leave a review for any of my books that you’ve read!
Ebook, print, or audio, every little bit helps! Your feedback will make a real difference in my career.
Thank you for your support!
Full transparency: Links in this post are affiliate links that may result in me getting a little extra from Amazon if you click through and buy something. No pressure, just love. Thanks!