Reviewer's Tip - How to "Turn-Off" Reviewers

This week's tip comes from Lynette Latzko, a reviewer for Feathered Quill Book Reviews.

The Fab Four Things Authors Can Do To “Turn-Off” Reviewers



As a reviewer, I strongly believe that the author's actual writing is the most obvious and critical part of the review process. An honest reviewer will not be influenced into giving a great review by a flashy book cover, positive reviews from famous people, and most definitely cannot be bribed into the positive review.  But let's be honest here, first impressions do indeed have an impact. So with that said, here's my top four things authors can do to decrease their chances of giving that oh so important good first impression, after all, who cares what reviewers think, you've got a best-seller anyway!


Sending a Bad Review Copy – This means that your book can be photocopied, have tons of typos or grammatical errors, and even be in bad condition, because reviewers will forgive all those mistakes, they're nice people, right?


Mailing – Go right ahead and send it in a thin mailer that's been used ten times before, you need to save all your pennies, and the post office will get it there in pristine condition no matter what.


Ignoring the Reviewer – Don't bother having a synopsis on the book or attached to it. Oh, and once the review is over, don't bother sending a thank-you too, it's just a review, and you knew it was a good book anyhow.


Hassling the Reviewer  - Try to contact the reviewers of your book at least twice weekly to inquire about whether your review has been completed, they really should hurry it up already. And once the review is completed, and it's not exactly the most exemplary and flattering, email them and make sure you insult their intelligence and point out that your friends all loved the book. Better yet, just hire a hit-man, it's much easier.

Tips for Authors - Submission Packages

This week's tip comes from our reviewer Lynette Latzko.

Authors and readers alike are well aware of the old adage that one should never judge a book by its cover. However, in this competitive, fast paced world, there are times when it is critically important for an author to pay particular attention to the presentation of his/her new book. Parents of a newborn would never think of dressing their precious tot in a potato sack when they are out in public, and so authors should take that much care and pride in their new work when sending review copies to reviewers. Here are some important tips for authors to consider when they are mailing their works to reviewers. Remember, you want to make a great, if not unique, first impression.

1. If you request a review, or a reviewer inquires about your book, send out the book promptly. Many reviewers receive loads of books - the quicker you get it to them the sooner they will be able to review it.

2. Pay particular attention to the type of book you are sending, and how it will survive in transit. For example, if you have a thin paperback children's book, send it with a hard piece of cardboard so it does not get bent. Also, if the book is on the larger side, don't squeeze it in a small package which may end up getting torn before the package arrives. Of course there are always "postal accidents" that are out of your control, but try to lessen the likelihood that your book will end up crushed, or in poor condition before the reviewer even has a chance to read it.

3. Be careful when sending a letter or note of introduction along with the book. Don't forget to use spell check. It's best to slip the actual paper inside the book instead of merely in the package. This will make it easier for the reviewer to locate promptly. Wrapping the book/submission form in a plastic wrapper is another added precaution - it keeps the book/papers together and protects them against the occasional wet postal package.

4. Some reviewers may have different preferences, but I personally appreciate books that are signed by the author, as it gives the book a personal touch.

5. Add something unique to the mailing that sets your book apart from others is always a plus. It doesn't have to be fancy or expensive. Consider including a business card, a personal thank-you, a bookmark, etc. It won't change the reviewer's opinion of the book, but it certainly can help leave a good impression or intrigue the reviewer enough to want to read your book first. Also, if the reviewer enjoys the book, they may be willing to spread the word about it, and what better way to do so than by having something small to hand out to others.

6. Finally, don't forget to keep the reviewer's information handy to send out a thank-you note for the review. It's always good to leave a good final impression, by showing your appreciation, especially if you plan on writing more and need reviews again.