There are pros and cons about becoming a published author in this day and age. On the pro side is how technology has not only revolutionised the way we write, but also the way we publish, advertise and sell our work. Authors are no longer held ransom by major publishing companies or exorbitantly priced self-publishing and have the option of going it alone and using social media to promote their work. On the con side, these things can also hinder an author's journey. Because there is so much more written work out there competing for the same amount of readers, it is very difficult to get noticed (especially if you are an unknown).
One of the best ways readers can help an author get their work noticed is by rating and/or leaving a review. As mentioned in a previous blog post Amazon.com is the king of the on-line book stores. If a book is listed on Amazon, there is no better place to leave a review and rating. While many people have tried (and failed) to understand the way that Amazon's algorithm's work, it would seem that books with a higher number of reviews rate higher and show up better when searched. Reviews are especially important when a book is newly released - there is nothing more lonely than seeing a book up with no ratings or reviews.
One of the best ways readers can help an author get their work noticed is by rating and/or leaving a review. As mentioned in a previous blog post Amazon.com is the king of the on-line book stores. If a book is listed on Amazon, there is no better place to leave a review and rating. While many people have tried (and failed) to understand the way that Amazon's algorithm's work, it would seem that books with a higher number of reviews rate higher and show up better when searched. Reviews are especially important when a book is newly released - there is nothing more lonely than seeing a book up with no ratings or reviews.
A review doesn't have to be a comprehensive essay - just a couple of paragraphs giving your impressions makes a huge difference. Consider what you do when you choose a book to read - would you be more likely to choose one that had reviews compared to one that didn't? Another great site is Goodreads (www.goodreads.com). This is a great site for people who like to read - allowing you not only the chance to rate the books you've read, but also to discover new books and authors based on your personal taste. if you read on your Kindle Amazon make the job easy by placing a link to where you can review the book on their site. They will even remind you when you get to the end of any book you read. Also don't forget the Australian Women Writer's Challenge - linking your review on their site will allow fellow readers to read and enjoy books by Australian women writers.
So next time you enjoy a book, take a moment to rate/review it and maybe give it a plug on your facebook/twitter page. Believe me the author will appreciate the effort.
So next time you enjoy a book, take a moment to rate/review it and maybe give it a plug on your facebook/twitter page. Believe me the author will appreciate the effort.
