Write a Great Book Review

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Hello readers,

Do you want to write a book review, but don’t know where to start? It’s not as difficult as it seems. I promise. Stick with me, and I’ll break it down. Find out why reviews matter, and learn my best tips.

#1. Why bother in the first place?

• A review lets the world know if a reader liked or disliked a book.

Readers shy away from expressing their opinion. They may be worried they don’t know how to put their feelings into words. It doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple statement such as I liked the story, or it’s not for me will suffice. If writing a stellar review is on your agenda, keep reading.

• Ratings give valuable feedback to the author.

Authors like to see evidence that someone bought and read the novel or nonfiction book. A few kind words encourage the writer to get on with the next project. Constructive criticism ( not insults ) helps the writer avoid pitfalls in their next story.

• Online reviews help make a book visible to other readers.

Books need reviews to be seen on Amazon. In this digital age, nothing goes out of print. Every year, more books find their way onto the digital shelves.

• Great reviews help authors sell more copies.

Better reviews may influence some shoppers to click the buy button.

Libraries will stock books people like.

#2. Tips for Writing a Review

• Read the book carefully.

I don’t give a review if I didn’t finish or stopped reading because I don’t think that’s fair to the author. I hate seeing 1 or 2 star reviews from reviewers who admit they quit reading other people’s work. In my opinion, they punished the author because the book wasn’t for them.

On the flip side, some reviewers may say they have a responsibility to warn readers about bad books. I disagree. Books without reviews don’t get seen. No need to discourage writers who may improve their skills over time. (I realize I’m probably in the minority here with my write and let write mindset. )

• How was the story? Was it forgettable? Or did you think about it after you finished?

A story that makes me think about it longer gets a higher review from me.

• Give an overview without spoiling the plot.

The purpose of an overview isn’t to tell everything that happened. Stop telling at the first plot point or shortly after. That's when the main character finds his or her world upside down. Reveal only enough to pique someone else’s interest. That’s a good review.

• State what you liked the most.

Examples may be the descriptions, plot, theme, or the characters. Was the book easy to read? Did it keep your attention? Was the book appropriate for its genre? Was it hard to put down? Did it evoke emotions? Did you forget you were reading? Did you feel like you were there? Is it in a genre you love? Was the plot type one of your favorites?

• State any problems with the book.

Consider the pacing or anything that bothered you. Did it need more worldbuilding? Did something seem too repetitive? For example, did the main character have the same expression on her face every other page? These issues should’ve been resolved with an attentive editor.

If you read an advanced reader’s copy ( ARC), remember that there will probably be a few typos. These were likely fixed when the final book was released. ( Authors hope so. If not, that’s on the editor and the publisher.)

Consider that a book that leaves you wanting more may have a sequel. The ending should be satisfying for now.

If you buy a spicy novel, please don’t penalize the author for writing sex scenes. If you buy a fantasy novel, please don’t ding the author for having an unrealistic story. A witch may ride a dragon if she chooses.

• When writing your review, use “I” statements rather than “you” statements.

Book review sites (Amazon) will sometimes remove a review if it sounds more like an advertisement than a reader’s opinion. Keep the phrasing in first person, I, me, and my, so people will know it’s how you felt. Inquiring minds want to know.

• Remember that behind every book there’s a real person who wrote it.

Avoid making personal attacks on the author. Writers have feelings, too. For the record, I won’t review a book if I can’t give it at least 3 stars. I figure a writer would rather have no review than a bad review. Besides, someone out there may love the book. I’d hate to deter that reader.

#3. Places to leave reviews

• Amazon (requires an annual purchase of $50 and takes a few days to post.)

• Goodreads (It requires a free account verified with email or social media.)

• Bookbub ( It requires a free account.)

• Barnes & Noble (No account needed, but ad blockers on your computer can prevent posting.)

• Other places that sell books online

  I’m sure other online bookstores have a review section. If you know of any, drop a comment.

#4. What to do if you still don’t feel confident

• Read reviews at the places above to get more ideas.

  Most review sites have a like button. Some have a button people will click if the review was helpful. You can get an idea what other readers found helpful.

  Follow me on Goodreads , and read the reviews I wrote. Some reviews for my book are posted there. Check them out on Amazon and follow me there as well.

• Think about reviews that made you want to read a book.

  In my opinion, writing a review that will entice readers is a great reward for the author. Help the writer sell another book.

  #5. Run your mouth

  If you liked a book, tell everyone you know. Word of mouth is a wonderful way to help your favorite authors sell books.
  

  And that’s a wrap. I like to keep these blogs short. Follow these tips, and you’ll write effective and engaging reviews. What review tips do you have for me? If I missed something, drop a comment. I’d love to hear from you.

  If there’s a subject want me to blog about, leave a comment. I’m open to suggestions.

  Don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter. I promise I won’t spam you every week, and your email is safe with me. I hate spam, and would never share your information with anyone else.

  Finally, don’t forget to check out my book, Run Girl Run. You can click on the look inside arrow over the book cover and read the first chapter for free.

  Thank you for stopping by.

Click on the cover below to check out the book.