The purpose for authors and publishers seeking reviews is quite simple, it is the reviews that sell books. A good review is one of the best ways to promote a book, and it's all (normally) free. What else could you ask for, a form to promote your works, and it costs nothing ... this is why reviews are so highly valued.

Book reviews can be difficult to obtain, even for well know authors. With lager firms and authors who can hire the services of a publicist, getting reviews is one of their main objectives in promoting a book. By understanding how a publicity agency achieves their goal is a good lesson for any author. One of the means used to attract attention and get review are press releases to appropriate sources ... with the emphasis being on “appropriate sources”. It is a good idea to learn the components of Press Releases if you are going to sending them out. Some up-front research and effort will help ensure your press releases are read. The press release should describe your book and highlight any factors that sets it apart, making it worthy of review. The press release MUST let the reviewers know who you are, where you can be reached, and how quickly you can get a copy to them.

To get local reviews from you local newspaper, call them to find out who reviews books. Many alternative weekly newspapers, special interest publications, literary magazines, newsletters, and web sites also feature book reviews. All of these are sources to explore.

Once your press release has been issued to carefully chosen reviewers there are only two alternatives, either the book will be reviewed ... or it won't be. The fact is, most books do not get reviewed so don't be discouraged if at first it seems like all is lost. If your book is reviewed, there is even more work to be done. Excerpt the most complimentary parts of the review, which can be a word, sentence, or entire paragraph, and use this text to further promote your book at your local bookstore, and other reviewers, and publishers.

If you want to sell copies of your book, you need to promote it, and reviews is one of best ways of getting your information out to your selected audience. It's worth taking the time to write an accurate, informative press release, and send it to those reviewers you believe would be most interested in writing about your book. Your ultimate goal as publicist is to let the world know your book is available, and having your book reviewed is a very important part of the process.