Let’s start with a simple truth: books with reviews sell more copies.
It’s not magic, it’s marketing. And it’s called social proof—a concept rooted in psychology and baked into consumer behavior. Whether we’re picking a new restaurant, shopping for a pair of running shoes, or choosing our next weekend read, we tend to trust what other people say. That’s social proof in action.
For indie authors, reviews aren’t just nice-to-haves. They’re a key part of your book’s success story. In this post, we’ll walk you through:
- Why reviews matter (a lot)
- How to get book reviews (without losing your mind)
- Where and how to use them effectively
Whether you’re launching your first book or your fifteenth, mastering the art of reader reviews will help you build credibility, boost sales, and connect with the readers who will champion your work.
Why Reviews Matter (and Why They’re Worth the Effort)
You might be thinking, “I just want to write. Do I really need to chase reviews?”
In short: yes. But here’s why it’s worth it.
🧠 Reviews Build Trust
Most readers won’t take a chance on a book with zero reviews. Even if your cover is professionally designed and your blurb sparkles, that “0-star” emptiness can be the digital equivalent of crickets.
Reader reviews signal credibility. They tell other readers, “Hey, someone took the plunge, and it was worth it.”
🛒 Reviews Influence Buying Behavior
Amazon’s algorithm, like many others, takes reviews into account when ranking products. Books with more (and more recent) reviews tend to show up higher in search results. That means better visibility and more sales.
Even off Amazon, readers look at Goodreads, BookBub, and other platforms before buying. A strong review profile builds momentum that can carry your book well beyond launch week.
💬 Reviews Offer Social Proof and Feedback
Reviews give you insights into how readers connect with your characters, what they loved, and where they struggled. That kind of feedback? Invaluable.
You’ll also find wonderful pull quotes for your marketing materials—but we’ll get to that in a moment.
How to Get More Reviews (Without Being Spammy or Stressed)
You’re convinced. Reviews matter. So how do you get book reviews—especially when you’re not a household name (yet)?
Here’s a practical roadmap.
1. Start With Your Launch Team (or Street Team)
Your launch team is a small, curated group of readers who agree to read your book before it goes live and leave a review during launch week. They’re usually fans, newsletter subscribers, or fellow authors willing to support you.
📌 Pro tip: Give your team plenty of notice. Send the book at least 2–3 weeks before launch and send a reminder email on release day with a direct link to your Amazon page.
2. Include a Review Request in Your Back Matter
Once a reader finishes your book, they’re emotionally invested—and that’s the perfect time to gently ask for a review. At the end of your book, include a short message like:
“If you enjoyed this book, please consider leaving a review. Even a few words can help another reader discover the story!”
Simple, sincere, and effective.
3. Tap Into Your Email List
If you’ve built an email list (and we highly recommend you do), don’t be shy about asking your subscribers to leave a review. They’re already your fans—they want to support you.
Make it easy for them:
- Include direct links to your Amazon and Goodreads pages
- Offer specific instructions (“Even one sentence is helpful!”)
- Say thank you (always)
4. Use Book Promotion Sites Strategically
When you run email promotions—like those offered by Written Word Media—you’re getting your book in front of thousands of targeted readers. That boost in downloads can also lead to an increase in reviews.
💡 Pro tip: If your goal is reviews, consider scheduling a Freebooksy Email Promo for a limited-time free promotion. Free downloads often lead to more readers—and more reviews over time.
Just remember: reviews won’t flood in overnight. Be patient and consistent.
5. Reach Out to Book Bloggers and Reviewers
Many bloggers and influencers are happy to review indie books—especially if they’re in their preferred genre. It takes research, but it can pay off.
Start by searching for “[your genre] book bloggers” and look for submission guidelines. Be respectful, professional, and personalize your request.
You may not get a 100% response rate (and that’s okay). Focus on building genuine relationships over time.
💡 Pro tip: You can get a free editorial review blurb for your book with NewInBooks.
Where and How to Use Reviews (Think Beyond the Amazon Page)
Getting reviews is only half the story. Now, let’s put them to work.
1. Use Reviews in Your Book Description
Amazon allows editorial reviews and customer reviews in the “From the Author” and “Editorial Review” sections of your book listing. Snippets like:
“A suspenseful thrill ride from start to finish.” —Goodreads Reviewer
…add credibility and help convert browsers into buyers.
🧩 Bonus: With Written Word Media’s NewInBooks Book Launch Package, you’ll get a professionally written Editorial Review Blurb crafted to elevate your Amazon listing and other promo materials.
2. Feature Review Quotes in Your Ads and Social Media
A glowing quote makes excellent ad copy. For example:
“Unputdownable. I read it in one night!” —Amazon Reviewer
Use quotes like these in:
- Facebook Ads
- Instagram Reels or Stories
- Launch week social posts
Pair the quote with your book cover, a call to action, and a link to buy. Voilà—reader-generated content that builds trust.
3. Incorporate Reviews Into Your Website or Author Page
Your website is your digital home base. A “Praise for [Book Title]” section adds a layer of authority and social proof.
You can also share reviews in:
- Your email newsletter
- Press kits
- Book club guides
- Pitch decks for speaking engagements
🎤 Yes, your book reviews can open doors beyond Amazon.
4. Leverage Goodreads for Long-Term Visibility
Goodreads is a discovery engine—especially for voracious readers. Once you have a few reviews, consider:
- Adding review quotes to your author bio
- Linking to Goodreads from your website or email footer
- Creating a Goodreads giveaway to build early traction for a new release
Final Thoughts: Reviews Are a Long Game (and That’s Okay)
Getting reviews takes time. Using them strategically takes practice. But both are worth the effort.
Every single review is a brick in the foundation of your author brand. So even if it feels like shouting into the void at first, keep going. Keep asking. Keep thanking your readers.
Social proof isn’t just about selling books—it’s about building trust, community, and long-term momentum.