Here is a simple, ethical plan for how to get book reviews in 2026. You will line up ARC readers, follow platform rules, and ask for reviews the right way. Use the step-by-step timeline, scripts, and tools below to earn reviews that last.
- Define your target readers and comps.
- Prepare clean files, description, and author site.
- Offer ARCs to matched readers and book pros.
- Run one targeted giveaway for discovery.
- Include a clear review request in back matter.
- Send two polite follow-ups, then stop.
- Track requests, responses, and live links.
- Thank reviewers and share excerpts with credit.
- Report abuse; never argue in public.
Your 90-day review timeline
Start early. Keep it steady. Here is a simple schedule that works for most genres.
- T-90 to T-60: Polish files and your author website. Build a one-page media kit and list your comps.
- T-60 to T-30: Offer ARCs through curated channels (see below). Add a review ask to your back matter.
- T-30 to T-7: Send first reminder to approved ARC readers. Consider one targeted Goodreads giveaway for discovery.
- Launch week: Share 1–2 short excerpts from early reviews. Credit the reviewer. Link to your store pages.
- T+14: Send the second, final reminder only to readers who opted in.
Need help building your kit or outreach list? Our book marketing support includes ARC campaign setup and tracking.
Rules that protect your accounts
Important: Never pay for a review or offer rewards tied to the review itself. This risks removals or account action.
- Amazon: Incentivized reviews are prohibited except through Amazon Vine. See Amazon Community Guidelines. Self-publishers using KDP do not have direct access to Vine via KDP; Vine enrollment runs through Seller Central for eligible products.
- FTC (U.S.): Buying or selling fake reviews is illegal. Disclose any material connections. See the FTC’s 2024 rule on fake reviews and endorsement guidance.
- Goodreads: Reviews must be honest, original, and non-abusive. See Goodreads Review Guidelines.
Where to find early reviewers (that actually fit)
| Channel | What it is | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NetGalley | Digital review copies for librarians, booksellers, bloggers, and power readers. | Most genres; trad-adjacent indies. | Official plans available; see NetGalley plans. Co-ops can reduce cost. |
| Goodreads Giveaways | Discovery tool that can nudge adds and awareness. | Pre-launch buzz. | Plan it to end ~6 weeks before pub. Follow platform guidance. |
| ARC Lists + Newsletter | Your owned list of readers who opt in for early copies. | Series and niche nonfiction. | Ask for honest reviews. Two gentle reminders max. |
| Book communities | Topic-focused blogs, podcasts, and micro-influencers. | Genres with active online fandoms. | Pitch small creators; many out-perform larger accounts. See our BookTok guide. |
Also consider Edelweiss+ communities and curated ARC platforms. Vet every request. Protect your files.
How to ask for reviews (copy-and-paste scripts)
Back-matter request
“Thanks for reading. If this story earned a few stars, would you leave a quick review where you bought it? Your words help other readers decide.”
ARC approval note
“Thank you for requesting an advance copy. An honest review is appreciated but not required. If you post, please add a brief disclosure that you received a review copy.”
Reminder 1 (7–10 days after release)
“Hi! If you finished [Title], a short, honest review helps other readers. No pressure. Here is your direct link.”
Reminder 2 (final)
“Thanks again for reading. If you have a minute, a quick review would mean a lot. Either way, I’m grateful.”
Make it easy: link to your store pages and Goodreads from your author site.
Tools and simple tracking
- One spreadsheet: columns for name, channel, date sent, follow-ups, live link, quote permission.
- Lightweight CRM: a tags system in your email service for ARC readers.
- Store pages: Keep metadata clean. Our guide to publishing on Amazon walks through the key fields.
- Social proof: Share short excerpts with a credit line and link back. Avoid over-posting.
Managing reviews after launch
- Thank, don’t argue: Respond publicly only to thank readers. Move any issues to private messages.
- Report clear abuse: Use platform tools for harassment, spam, or fakes. The FTC now targets fake-review schemes; know the rules.
- Keep momentum: Rotate small promos, book club kits, and newsletter swaps. See our marketing support for planning.
Ethical do vs. don’t (quick reference)
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Offer a free ARC with no strings and disclose the relationship when needed (see FTC guidance). | Buy reviews or offer gifts, refunds, or entries in exchange for a review. Amazon forbids this outside Vine. |
| Use Goodreads to organize honest reader opinions (follow review guidelines). | Argue with reviewers or coordinate review swaps. |
| Choose discovery tools like NetGalley when your comps perform there (see plans). | Blast untargeted DMs or mass-tag readers. |
Service spotlight: WriteLight Group can set up your ARC campaign, create outreach scripts, and manage your first 25 reviewer requests. Learn more.
FAQs
Are paid reviews ever allowed?
No. Paying for reviews or offering anything of value in exchange for a review violates Amazon’s rules and the FTC’s standards. The one exception on Amazon is reviews labeled through Vine, which indie authors generally cannot access via KDP. See Amazon’s guidelines and the FTC rule.
How many reviews do I need to start seeing traction?
Focus on quality and relevance. A steady trickle of new reviews from the right readers beats a burst from the wrong audience. Many authors aim for 15–30 honest reviews in the first 60 days.
Can friends and family leave reviews?
They can if the review is honest and follows platform rules. But close relationships or shared accounts may trigger removals on some platforms. It is safer to rely on matched readers and ARC communities. See Goodreads guidance.
What should my review request actually say?
Keep it short, polite, and pressure-free. Use the scripts above. Always include a direct link and let readers know reviews are optional and honest.
Related reads: publish on Amazon · short-form marketing tips · author websites · book marketing services
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