I had a post done and ready to go. I’m eager to tell you more about What She Knew! But as I’ve worked this week, I realized I need to tell you about my new heroes…the book review bloggers. It seemed fitting to take a moment and acknowledge the time, energy, and effort they spend so we readers can find out what’s available and what’s good to read.
I’m contacting bloggers who review books in hopes they will review mine. I’ve prepared a lengthy list of reviewers to contact, and I’ve looked up the links one by one. Sometimes the websites are gone. Some don’t cater to my genre. Some bloggers are way behind and not accepting new reviews. Out of each page-long list I’ve compiled, there are about 5-6 that I can contact.
What I’ve noticed in the process is this: book reviewers are a generous lot. They are reading like crazy and sharing their opinions without compensation. In fact, it’s a no-no for me to pay for reviews (outside of industry reviewers such as Kirkus). These bloggers are doing what they do for the love of it. While some have found ways to monetize their blogs, I’m still impressed. A lot of them have day jobs, but still are prolific with their reading and blogging.
Most respond to my queries quickly. One apologized because it took her a day to get back to me.
Most post their review policies, making it clear what they will and won’t read, thus saving me time. It also helps me to know exactly what they want me to send them.
I wouldn’t have the patience to sort through endless requests…some report getting up to 500 queries in a month. That’s a lot of e-mail to read, even before accepting books!
So thank you, book review bloggers. Thank you for loving books. Thank you for taking time you could spend doing other things to read my query and consider my requests. Thank you for helping spread the word…something every author needs in order to have a chance of succeeding when so many books are available.
And, if any of you reading this blog are interested in reading What She Knew, let me know! I’d be happy to send you a copy…just click on the Contact link and tell me what format you would like and where to send a copy.
What She Knew is now available for pre-order on Amazon. Release date for the ebook version is February 29, 2016. The paperback will be available March 29, 2016. More to come!
gwynnrogers says
Hmm, I thought I left a comment, but it evidently escaped. I’m losing a variety of things including my mind lately while John has been in the hospital. At least I bring him home today. Anyway, I enjoyed your post as I had no clue as to what all was involved in having people review your book. I also suggested that you contact Pat Garcia of the IWSG if you haven’t already. Also, I would be more than happy to review your book, if that would benefit you. Thanks for the education about the Reviewing process.
admin says
Hi, Gwynn! I hadn’t been keeping up with Teaster news until this morning, when I learned your husband was ill. I’m so sorry to hear this! It sounds like an intense time for you. I send hugs and wishes for a full recovery.
I’ll be giving you a copy of the book anyway, so if you want to review it, you’re welcome to do so. You are listed in the acknowledgements as a friend and supporter, so your review may not be considered objective (unless, of course, you don’t like it! :)).
Liz A. says
Yeah, that’s a tough job. Not the reading part, of course, but all the other stuff that goes along with it. Plus, I’m sure some authors might not be happy with some of their reviews… Book review bloggers are a good lot.
admin says
Well, we’ll see how some of these review go for me! Hee hee. But I truly want to get honest opinions, scary as it is.
Crystal Collier says
Amen and seconded! I have a whole slew of lovely book bloggers who helped out with my debut novel, and I adore each and every one of them. I do a fair amount of reviewing too, but nothing compared to the people who slough through hundreds of queries. Thank goodness for the kindness and time.
admin says
I’m so glad you had a great experience as well! The more I track down these bloggers, the more appreciative I am.