The Importance of Book Reviews to an Indie Author

This week's blog post touches on an aspect of being a reader many are not comfortable doing and/or are not aware of its importance. For an independently published author, such as myself, with little or no advertising budget, reviews are essential. In this post, I will discuss what book reviews mean to me.

Reviews are Learning Opportunities - Reviews provide feedback on what I, as an author, am doing, both right and wrong. This information aids me in honing my writing technique. And, if editing errors are mentioned, helps me be more cognitive of editing issues I may be overlooking.

A Window into Who Reads My Books - Reviews are often the only way I have of knowing who is reading my books. Sure, I find out from friends and family they have bought my books. At least, from the ones who take the time to let me know. As far as book sales on Amazon, there is no way for me to know who buys my books. I can see in which country a book is purchased. But not who, as well as any other demographic information such as age and gender.

Reviews Educate Potential Buyers - Before I buy a book, I always read some of the book's reviews. I make it a point to read a few of the reviews that recommend the book, as well as some of the reviews from those who do not like the book. This gives me insight into whether or not it is a book I want to buy. The same goes for many potential buyers of my books. Especially, those who are not familiar with my work.

Don't think you can write a review? Don't worry. A review can be something as simple as "I enjoyed the book." Any length of review is appreciated and counts toward better placement of the book by Amazon. The more positive reviews a book has on Amazon, the more they will promote the book. After all, Amazon also makes money off book sales.

Reviews can be any length - from a short sentence to the very elaborate and lengthy.

Don't have time to write a review when you finish the book? Not a problem. There is no time limit on when a review can be made. Do it when you have time to do it. But please, remember to write the review.

Think you can't post a review on Amazon, or Goodreads, because you did not buy the book? Maybe you got it as a gift or read someone else's copy of the book. Does not matter, anyone can leave a review at Amazon or Goodreads. In order to leave a review at Goodreads, you will need to have an account with them, which is free.

Tips for Writing a Review

If you would like to write a full review, but don't know where to start. You can start by saying what you liked or didn't like about my book. If you didn't like my book, please be kind and provide constructive criticism that I can use to better my writing. If you liked the book, explain what you liked about the book. Consider mentioning the type of reader you think will enjoy my book. Finally, tell whether or not you would recommend the book. If not, again provide feedback on why so that I may use it to help improve my writing.

2 Sample Reviews - one very detailed, the other simple and to the point. Both are equally important to me as a writer.

Shadow Comfort

This is a disturbing yet touching story about Bobby, a physically abused boy, and the events of one summer that changed the course of his life. Written mostly in Bobby's narrative voice, it is hard to put down.

Author Ronnie L. Richards, himself a survivor of childhood abuse, has utilized his pain and the damage in its wake to craft this unforgettable tale. Yet, don't think this is a happily-ever-after account. It is full of raw honesty, intimately-drawn characters, and ironic humor. His description of the little Oklahoma town and the isolated farmhouse that is home to Bobby and his parents perfectly sets the atmosphere of arid, unrelenting, hopelessness. The parents are reflections of that isolation and hopelessness - the father a raging alcoholic, and the long-suffering mother barely keeping her sanity through all the beatings. Yet, Bobby and his mother are truly the strong ones in this situation, their steadfast love for each other, their impetus to persevere, even if it means sacrifice.

I highly recommend "Shadow Comfort." ~ Norats Inthecorn

Rhodesville: secrets - death - going back home

Excellent book. I couldn’t put it down. ~ Cheryl Ryan

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I appreciate each and every one of you. Now, go back to Amazon, and Goodreads, and leave reviews of any of my books you have read. Please.