For many independent authors, Amazon certainly ranks as the top preference for self-publishing and it's no big secret that Amazon gives more exposure to those books with a reasonable collection of reviews.
But where can you get a free review? After all, most independent authors do not have that supporting financing network privileged to their traditionally published counterparts.
A small search online will provide some good places to start with. I've personally found some success at websites such as http://www.theindieview.com and http://dlmorrese.wordpress.com.
Then of course, there is the popular https://www.goodreads.com. I can carefully surmise that almost every self-publisher I've met, is or has been a member of this website. While some despise it to the core, others find it an enriching resource for their writing. There are several groups which you could join to suit your needs. There is a place to vent, rant, explore your hidden literary desires and most definitely, find the reviewers you're desperately seeking for your debut novel.
There are several review groups on Facebook as well that you could explore at your will. Like any product, each group is different and does not suit the several personalities who surf them. One may appeal to you more than the other.
I've also had some stroke of luck with Twitter as well. There have been cases where readers have connected to request for a copy in return for a review. So, if you don't have a Twitter account, it may not be a bad idea to get one. Here is my Twitter link to add to your follow list, if you think it might help to ease your nerves; https://twitter.com/ccartharn
Not everyone is social media savvy. And it can be quite daunting to step into such a forum as a newbie. But each step is a growing process, contributing unconsciously to your evolution as an author. So remember to keep stepping, keep moving. You've completed the most important task of all. You've completed your book. Welcome to the publishing world.
No comments:
Post a Comment