How to Get Book Reviews and Boost Sales on Amazon KDP

Introduction

In the crowded marketplace of books, getting noticed can be a significant challenge. One of the most effective ways to stand out is by accumulating positive reviews. Reviews serve as social proof, guiding potential readers’ decisions and boosting your book’s credibility. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why book reviews are essential, how many you need, and detailed, actionable methods to get those coveted reviews.

Before implementing any of the review-gathering methods described in this blog post, it’s crucial to always stay up-to-date with the latest Amazon Terms of Service. The rules and regulations set forth by Amazon can change over time, and what may be acceptable today might not be permissible tomorrow. Therefore, we strongly advise conducting your own research to ensure compliance with current guidelines.

 

The Importance of Book Reviews

The significance of book reviews can’t be overstated. They act as social proof, a powerful psychological phenomenon illustrated by Solomon Asch’s experiment from the 1950s. In his study, 75% of participants gave the wrong answer about which lines matched in length after hearing others do the same. This experiment highlights how people tend to conform to group opinions rather than rely on their own judgments.

The takeaway for authors is clear: having numerous positive reviews can significantly influence potential buyers, leading to increased sales. For example, if you’re publishing a book on a competitive keyword like “basketball,” where other books have hundreds of reviews, you’ll need a significant number of reviews to rank and be attractive to buyers. Conversely, for less competitive niches, having even 10-30 reviews can make a substantial difference.

While many self-publishers are successfully using the methods described here without encountering issues as of now, it’s essential to understand that adherence to Amazon’s policies is your responsibility. Staying informed and vigilant about any updates to these policies will help you avoid potential complications.

 

Types of Books Covered

Different strategies may apply based on the type of book you have:

• • Low-content books: Journals, planners

• • Medium-content books: Short stories, novellas

• • High-content books: Full-length novels, comprehensive non-fiction

• • Audiobooks

This post will address strategies applicable to all these types and give special considerations for audiobooks.

 

 

Proven Methods for Getting Reviews

Excel through tried and tested methods rather than risky shortcuts. A friend of mine earned $17,000 in December alone with these methods after publishing his first book in May 2023. Notably, he had no pre-existing audience, proving that success is possible for new authors too.

Safe Methods to Avoid Account Issues

Using shortcuts like paid review services might yield fast results but can lead to penalties from platforms like Amazon, including the removal of reviews or account suspension. We’ll focus on sustainable methods that build genuine reader engagement and long-lasting success.

 

 

Foundation for High-Quality Reviews

The cornerstone of accumulating positive reviews lies in the quality of your book. High-quality content naturally attracts positive reviews. Here’s a breakdown:

• • Quality expectation: For every 100 sales, you can generally expect 1-5 organic reviews.

• • High-quality content: Ensures a higher likelihood of positive reviews.

For instance, two of my books with over 2,500 reviews each, maintaining an average rating above 4.5 stars, garnered most of their reviews organically because the content exceeded reader expectations.

 

 

Method 1: Building an Audience and Email List

Long-term Approach

Building an audience is undoubtedly a long-term endeavor, but it’s a powerful approach for sustained success and brand building.

 

Process Overview

• • Offer a free bonus (lead magnet): In exchange for email addresses.

• • Steps to set up the lead magnet system:
    • • Include a link or QR code in your book.
    • • Direct readers to a landing page to collect email addresses.
    • • Use an automated service (e.g., Aweber) to handle sign-ups and deliver the lead magnet.
    • • Promote the lead magnet on social media, blogs, etc.

• • Follow up via email:
    • • Use BookSprout for advanced review copies (ARCs), they will follow up for you.
    • • Send an email from your email service provider.
    •  

Example Implementation:

1. In-Book Link or QR Code

Include a prominent call-to-action within your book to join your email list in exchange for a valuable lead magnet.

"Thank you for reading! Get a free bonus chapter by clicking [this link](yourwebsite.com/freebonus) or scanning the QR code below!"

2. Landing Page

Create a landing page to capture email addresses.

3. Email Automation

Set up an automation service like Aweber to send out your lead magnet and follow-up emails.

 

4. Utilize BookSprout for ARCs

Send advance copies to gather early reviews.

 

 

Method 2: Review Page Inside Your Book

Adding a review request page at the end of your book can serve as an effective nudge for readers.

 

Template

1. Personalized Message

Thank you for reading! As an independent author, your feedback is incredibly valuable to me. Can you spare a minute to leave an honest review on Amazon? Scan the QR code or visit this link: [Amazon Review Link]

2. QR Code or Direct Link

QR codes make it easy for readers to quickly access your book’s review page.

 

Method 3: Audiobook Review Strategies

Read Review Request by Narrator

Have your audiobook narrator include a review request at the end of the book.

"Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this audiobook, please consider leaving an honest review on Audible [or another platform]. Your feedback helps me to create more books you'll love."

Promotional Codes from ACX or Findaway Voices

Distribute promotional codes via email or social media.

To their websites:

• ACX
• Findaway Voices

Audiobook Review Services

Use services like BookBite.co to send out advanced copies to reviewers.

 

 

Method 4: Advanced Review Copies via Social Media

Social media can be a potent tool for distributing ARCs.

 

Steps to Utilize Social Media

1. • Search for advanced review readers on Facebook.

• • Join relevant Facebook groups related to your book’s subject.

• • Post about your upcoming book and offer ARCs to group members.

Method 5: Utilizing Review Services

Several services can help distribute your books to potential reviewers:

 

Overview of Different Review Services

 

Pubby.co

• • Best for high-content books

• • Process:
    • • Sign up and add your book.
    • • Review other books to earn snaps.
    • • Redeem snaps for reviews on your book.

• • Cost: Free for 10 days, then $20/month.

Steps	Description
Sign Up	Create an account on Pubby
Add Book	Add your book details
Earn Snaps	Review other books to earn snaps
Redeem Snaps	Use snaps to get reviews for your book

 

BookBite.co

• • Suitable for books and audiobooks, including low-content books

• • Process: Similar to Pubby

• • Cost: Highest plan $29.99/month

 

GetBooksReviewed.com

• • Process: Similar to Pubby.co and Bookbite.co

• • Cost: $15-$19.99/month depending on the plan

Building Review Currency Before Your Book Launch

Start accumulating review currency (snaps, coins) before launching your book to immediately gain credibility upon release.

 

Conclusion

Book reviews are essential for social proof and sales but won’t save a poorly crafted book. Ensure your book is high quality, targets the right keywords, and features a professional cover with a compelling product page. Accumulate review currency early and use it strategically, employing multiple methods to garner reviews effectively.

 

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Consider using a combination of these methods for optimum results and start building an email list as soon as possible if you plan on creating a long-term brand.