Part Three of BookTrib’s “Leverage Your Reviews” Series
You worked hard to earn your reviews — now make them work just as hard for you.
Strong reviews don’t just sway individual readers — they also influence the people who decide which books make it onto shelves. Librarians and booksellers constantly evaluate titles, often with limited time and budgets, and rely heavily on trusted third-party signals to guide their decisions. Reviews provide that signal.
When a librarian or bookseller scans your email, pitch sheet, or catalog listing, review excerpts offer immediate reassurance. They help answer key questions quickly: Is this book professionally produced? Does it appeal to readers? Has it already gained positive attention? Well-chosen reviews reduce perceived risk and signal that your book has momentum — an important factor when shelf space is limited.
Below are several effective ways to use reviews to increase your chances of distribution through bookstores and libraries.
Need editorial reviews of your book? BookTrib’s Promote Your Book review program puts your book in front of a large audience of readers eager to discover their next read, while providing you with a thorough, professional review. Learn more here.
Create the Perfect Pitch
When used strategically, book review quotes can provide insight into qualities that matter to librarians and booksellers.
- Create a one-page pitch sheet that includes your book cover, ISBN, format availability, a short summary and three to five carefully selected review excerpts. Keep it clean, scannable and professional.
- Use review quotes in email subject lines to stand out in crowded inboxes. And use them in the body of follow-up emails to reinforce the message without repetition.
- Select quotes based on the outlet: a library may respond to reviews emphasizing community relevance or discussion value for book clubs, while bookstores may prefer language about page-turning storytelling, strong genre appeal or reader enthusiasm.
- Link to a praise page on your website or to a full editorial review so decision-makers can easily read more with minimal effort.
Libraries and bookstores aren’t looking for hype; they’re looking for confidence. Reviews help them feel secure that your book will serve their readers well.
Need more reader reviews? BookTrib’s Amazon Review program guarantees 20 to 25 Amazon reader reviews, with the option for customized packages that guarantee even more reviews. Learn more here.
Leveling the Playing Field for Indie Authors
Getting a book into libraries and bookstores can feel daunting for indie authors, but strong reviews help level the playing field. They act as shorthand for quality, professionalism and reader interest — all factors librarians and booksellers weigh carefully when deciding what to stock. By presenting reviews clearly and strategically, you make it easier for these gatekeepers to say yes. You’re not asking them to take a leap of faith; you’re showing them that others already have.
In the next set of articles in this series, we’ll explore how reviews can strengthen your marketing and PR materials, from press releases to media kits, and help your book reach even wider audiences.
Need more ideas for promoting your book? BookTrib has an extensive array of services to meet your goals — from gaining exposure to tens of thousands of readers to getting in front of book clubs to driving online retail sales. Learn more here.