The Importance of Book Reviews

Book Reviews serve a variety of purposes and are very important to readers and writers. Reviews help other readers choose books. A review provides information about a book that a marketing blurb may not, and a vast majority of Kindle readers rely heavily on reviews before making an online purchase.

Sales and reviews factor into a bookseller’s algorithm. More book sales and reviews help a book achieve a higher ranking on a bookseller’s site, which provides more exposure for a book and its author. Additionally, more reviews may get authors noticed by book clubs, blogging communities, book review sites, and other promotional venues.

Lastly, many authors do read reviews and may find helpful feedback in articulate reviews to improve their craft. For example, saying “I hated the book” isn’t helpful, but explaining that you’re not fond of a book because it was written in first person and you prefer third, you find multiple points of view confusing, there were too many grammatical errors, or there was too much profanity, gives the author feedback to consider. Conversely, pointing out what you liked about a book is also helpful and encouraging for the author in an industry that can often be very discouraging.

So, if you enjoy a book or have constructive feedback, please consider writing a review for the books you read. Other readers and the author will thank you. If you’ve read and reviewed any of my books, I thank you.