How to Write a Book Review: A Simple Guide for New Readers and Authors

Did you know that 93 percent of people check book reviews online before deciding what to read next? Whether you’re a reader browsing for your next favorite story or an author hoping to reach more readers, reviews are one of the most powerful tools.

When books receive reviews, both readers and authors benefit. Reviews help readers discover stories they’ll love and engage in literary conversations while supporting the authors and their work. Authors rely on reviews for building trust with readers, boosting visibility among sellers, and increasing frequency in online searches. The more thoughtful, authentic reviews a book receives, the more likely it is to reach eager new readers.

Even so, writing or requesting a review can feel intimidating. What should you say? How much detail is too much? And how do you encourage readers to leave reviews without being pushy?

This guide is for both new readers and authors. Whether you’re leaving your first review or seeking more of them, we’ll break down what makes a review effective and how to inspire the kind of feedback that makes a difference.

How genuine reviews build reader trust

Online book buyers trust other readers more than almost anything else. A book cover might catch someone’s attention. A description might pique their interest. But it’s the reviews that often persuade them to hit “buy.”

And it’s not just about boosting sales. Readers who see a range of honest reviews—sharing what people liked, what didn’t quite land, and why—feel more confident picking up a given book. They’re not looking for perfect feedback; they want real opinions from other readers like them.

For authors, authentic reviews also help boost visibility. Retailers like Amazon and Apple Books use reviews as part of their recommendation engines. An abundance of recent, honest reviews helps your book appear in more search results, category pages, and “You Might Also Like” lists.

But here’s the key: reviews need to feel real. Readers can sniff out anything that seems scripted or insincere. So can the algorithms! That’s why it’s better to have a handful of thoughtful reviews rather than a mass of generic ones.

For both readers and writers, authenticity is what builds long-term trust. And trust is what builds a real audience.

How to write (and spot) a great book review

Let’s start with the basics. What makes a book review good?

The short answer—honesty, clarity, and relevance. A review doesn’t need to be long or literary to be helpful. Some of the most powerful reviews feature a few sentences written by everyday readers who share with sincerity.

Consider the qualities of an effective review:

An honest perspective. Whether the book blew you away or left you underwhelmed, what matters most is your honesty. Genuine reviews are personal and add value to the literary community. They reflect your actual reading experience, not what you think you’re supposed to say.

Specific examples. A strong review includes details that help others understand your reaction. You might mention a favorite character, a twist that surprised you (without spoiling anything!), or a theme that stayed with you after finishing the book. These details help paint a clearer picture for readers.

A tone that matches the audience. You don’t need to be formal. The best reviews match the energy of the book itself. If it’s a fast-paced thriller, a review that highlights the suspense and tension lets other thriller fans know it’s up their alley. If you’ve read a heartfelt memoir, a review that speaks to the emotional journey might resonate more.

A helpful takeaway. Rather than demanding readers to “buy this book now,” simple encouragement works well. Suggestions such as, “I’d recommend this to anyone who loves slow-burn romance” or “Might be a good fit for readers who enjoy experimental writing” gently lead others toward the right choice.

Reviews don’t have to be glowing to be good. What they do need is to be thoughtful, grounded, and honest.

Tips for getting great book reviews

Leaving a review might feel like a small gesture to readers, but it makes a huge difference to authors, who greatly benefit from the feedback and visibility. Knowing how and when to invite readers to leave reviews for your books is part of building a strong, sustainable relationship with your audience.

Here’s how to do it well:

Ask at the right moment. Readers are most likely to write a review when the book is still fresh in their minds. That’s why it’s helpful to include a review request at the end of your book. It could be a friendly note saying, “If you enjoyed this, I’d be grateful if you left a quick review!” You can also mention it in your email newsletter or share reminders on social media after a book launch.

Make it easy. If you’re asking someone to leave a review, include a direct link to your book’s page on Amazon, Goodreads, or wherever you’d like them to post. The fewer steps they have to take, the more likely they’ll follow through. If you’re a reader, consider bookmarking your favorite book retailer’s review page so you can leave quick reviews any time you finish a book.

Offer small incentives. Thanking your readers with something extra after they leave a review is a fun motivation. Maybe it’s a sneak peek of your next book, a downloadable short story, or a special thank-you message. Make it clear that the incentive is a “thank you,” not a trade, and always emphasize honest feedback over glowing praise.

Create a community around your work. Readers who feel connected to an author are more likely to engage. Share behind-the-scenes content, host Q&As, respond to comments, and invite conversation. When people feel seen and appreciated, they’re more inclined to show support, especially with a thoughtful review.

Respond graciously. If you’re tagged in a great review or someone reaches out to share kind words, thank them! If you get a critical review, avoid getting defensive. Reviews are about the reader’s experience, not the author’s ego. A gracious attitude builds credibility and shows professionalism, even when the feedback stings.

One review can go a long way

Book reviews don’t have to be long, poetic, or perfectly worded. But when they’re authentic and thoughtful, they can create real momentum for your latest release or for a book you really loved.

Leaving genuine book reviews has a lasting impact for readers and authors. Reviews not only help other readers decide what to choose next, but they also add context, highlight what stood out, and support the kinds of stories you wish to see published. For authors, reviews are a key part of a book’s long-term success, helping to establish credibility, increase visibility in search results, and offer valuable insight into what’s working with your audience.

And if you could use a little help getting more reviews, that’s something we support every day! At Elite Authors, we connect your book with real readers who offer thoughtful, honest feedback so you can build credibility and boost sales.

Because at the end of the day, every review adds up. It might introduce a book to a new reader or give authors the encouragement they need to keep writing. Valuable opinions matter. Book reviews are one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to support the creative work you believe in.

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