How to Promote Your Novel: Get Reviews

My Novel

The most daunting part of the novel promotion process is getting even a bad review from a respected newspaper, magazine, or web site. But, if you have a thick skin (and I assume you do because you're a writer), hang in. Even one mixed review from a medium-circulation publication can sell a lot of books and even enhance your reputation as an author.

It doesn't matter if you've written the alleged Great American Novel. Most reviewers are swamped and you'll need connections or masterful salesmanship to get their attention. Some authors will hire publicists to help make those connections. Most writers don't have the cash to support such added services.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet Service Provider
• Postage
• Mailing envelopes
• Extra copies of novel
• Galley copies

Instructions

1. This step occurs usually right before your book is published at galley stage.

   Galleys are uncorrected proofs of your novel that your publisher sends you. Ask your publisher for more than one copy. As soon as your receive it, immediately send that extra copy to Publishers Weekly, the major trade magazine for publishers, librarians, booksellers, and newsletters. PW's galley reviews offer maximum exposure and a head-start for promotions. A warning: Publishers Weekly will only review novels in galley. I didn't know this fact. As a result, PW rejected my novel for review, and my quest for reviews was immediately off to a slow start.

2. When your novel is published, request about 100 copies for yourself. You may have to pay for these copies at a deep-discounted author's rate. Many publishers, however, will give their authors a certain number of freebie copies as an amenity.

3. Compile a list of newspaper, magazine, and online book reviewers contact information. Do an online search, and you'll find plenty of information. Bookmarket.com is a prime site for this type of information.

4. Send letters of inquiry to reviewers, preferably by email. Start with your local media reviewers. As a favorite son or daughter, reviews from these venues are easiest. Next, send letters to reviewers at your favorite newspapers, magazines, or websites. After that, send inquiries to the rest. This is a time consuming process.

   Keep your inquiries concise, and do offer to send a free copy of your novel. And, of course, include a brief description of your novel with the intent of tantalizing the reviewer.

5. When reviewers respond and ask for a copy of your book, this is where your campaign will start to get expensive. Prepare a budget for postage and envelopes.

Tips & Warnings

• Note that, even if your first novel has been published by one of the majors, large publishing companies' publicity departments are almost as swamped as major newspaper reviewers. You'll probably still have to reach most reviewers on your own, especially if you're a first-time-published author.

• When you go to the post office, make sure that your mailing envelopes are marked "Media Mail." This is a special reduced airmail postage rate for authors and publishers.

• Don't wait for responses. Keep sending out letters of inquiry and Media Mail.

• When you think you've run out of reviewers, start thinking outside the box. Start with examining your novel's specific areas of specialized interests. For example, if your novel has a strong religious theme, send letters of inquiry to newspaper and magazine religion editors.

• The warning once again: Publishers Weekly will only review novels in galley.

Resources

• "Get Your Book into the News -- With or Without a Publicist", Marcia Yudkin
• Publishers Weekly
• Bookmarket.com