How to Write a Letter to Get a Book Reviewed
Book reviews can be an important part of marketing for authors. Although some publications review books on a regular basis, your book might not make the review cut unless you request it. A search of the Internet and its many specialized websites can often yield book review opportunities that can give your books exposure to large audiences. Many of these websites have someone on hand who is happy to review your books in return for a copy of the book and a request by letter or email.
Step 1
Address your letter to the person in charge of doing the reviews when possible. On websites, this information is typically listed. If you have no way of finding out to whom to address the letter, you can address it to "Book Reviews" or "Fiction Reviews," whichever is more appropriate. In the upper-left corner, write the name and address of the company you're sending your letter to. You can skip this part if you're sending a request by email. Magazines and websites that specialize in your type of book are perfect targets.
Step 2
Introduce yourself in the first paragraph and give your full name. Let the recipient of the letter know that you are an author of a book you would like to have reviewed. You can add a brief description of your publishing history, but stick to the basics. You aren't trying to sell yourself as a writer. You want to get your latest book reviewed. Give the title of the book and the number of pages involved.
Step 3
Write a brief three- to five-line synopsis of the book you would like to have reviewed. State that you would be happy to send a copy of the book for review. Close the letter by thanking the reviewer for his time and stating that you look forward to sending a complimentary copy of your book for review purposes.
Writer Bio
Carl Hose is the author of the anthology "Dead Horizon" and the the zombie novella "Dead Rising." His work has appeared in "Cold Storage," "Butcher Knives and Body Counts," "Writer's Journal," and "Lighthouse Digest.". He is editor of the "Dark Light" anthology to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities.
