Thanks so much for this helpful feedback, Thomas! I’m glad you had a good experience.

Sandy

If by “beta reviewers” you mean early readers of your manuscript, that should happen as soon as you have a finished draft.

I honestly have no idea about the timing for requesting blurbs if you’re self-published. In traditional publishing, it happens with a manuscript that’s complete but not yet copyedited or laid out, maybe six months before publication.

For trade reviews, traditionally published books should be sent out in pre-publication galleys at least three months before publication. Self-published books should be sent out as soon as they’re 100% complete and ready to be sold—finalized text, layout, and cover. You can delay publication of your book in anticipation of advance reviews, but it’s not as necessary with self-publishing unless you’re really pushing hard to get your books sold in libraries or bookstores, which are used to putting in pre-publication orders based on catalogs and reviews.

Not at all. Just check the submission guidelines for the places you’re sending it and make sure they’re open to books of that vintage.

Professional media reviewers (magazines and newspapers)?
Beta reviewers?
Influencer reviewers for “blurbs”/ testimonials/ endorsements?

Spotting the next big book. It’s obvious when you read it. A fantastic tale well told will always stand out amidst the more pedestrian storytelling.

Thanks for your insights, Rose. Indie authors, and newbies in particular, are bombarded with tons of information and sometimes it is hard to make enlightened decisions. Working with reputable services is the best defense.

Thanks so much for this input, Linda! It’s priceless! I’m sure you’re not paid nearly enough for the time, thought, and effort that goes into your reviews, which tells me you love what you do. Tell us: What brings you the greatest joy when you’re reviewing books?

Sandy