Page 38 - Elite Spring Catalog 2023

Why are they so important?

Reviews are critical for authors, especially self-published authors. You see,
traditionally published books are represented by big publishing houses. They have
contacts with bookstores and major retailers. Books find their way onto the bookshelves
a lot quicker and easier. They also have big marketing budgets to promote these

books. On the other hand, a self-published author is responsible for all the costs
associated with writing, editing, illustrating, publishing, printing, and marketing.
There are approximately 1.4 million books published each year on Amazon - KDP
(Kindle Direct Publishing). The chances of being found without a marketing budget are
pretty slim, despite the latest YouTube video. "Publish a children's book for free then
make money for the next 5 years in your sleep!" While I didn't publish a book for free, I
did sleep for three days straight, and when I finally woke up and checked my sales,
there weren't any!!! Amazon Ads help, but there is competition for keywords, etc just to
rank (or be seen) The cost of ads can get pretty high.

This is where you, the reader can help.
Reviews help to create credibility, build an audience, and help drive sales.
They provide social proof that the book is worth reading. Reviews generate buzz
around the book, which can lead to increased visibility. Reviews can also help to

improve the book's search engine rankings, making it more visible, and increasing the
likelihood of sales. This is critical when a new book is released.

Authors offer their eBooks for free hoping to get some reviews. Each review is
appreciated. They validate an author's work and boost self-confidence and every
feedback is important to authors as they help improve their writing. Note: Amazon now
allows star ratings only without any text. While these are great...sometimes, they are at
times unfair to the author. Without giving any explanation for a low rating, it sometimes
feels like a personal attack.

"Please take a few moments after reading a book to leave a review.
We are grateful for each one we get,"

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