How to Choose the Perfect Excerpt to Get Book Reviewed and Gain Free Book Reviews
July 18, 2025Categories: Author Resources, Podcast Episode
Mastering Book Reviews with Owen Hawthorne
Uncover the strategies to get your book noticed by the right audience. Join us as we delve into insider tips for submitting to book review sites and blogs, and explore free review services that can boost your book's visibility. With expert advice and real-life success stories, our podcast aims to equip authors with the tools needed to successfully navigate the world of book reviews. Don't miss out on learning how to make the most of your book review submissions.
Hey there, I wanted to chat with you about something pretty crucial for authors, especially if you’re working on getting your book noticed — and that’s how to select the right excerpt when you’re trying to get your book reviewed. I mean, sure, everyone talks about getting reviews and writers always want more eyes on their work, but often people overlook how important that bit of the book you send out really is.
So, think about it—when you submit a book for review, whether you’re approaching book review sites, book review blogs, or using any kind of book review services, the reviewers usually want a taste of your writing. It’s not just about sending the entire manuscript unless it’s requested. Instead, you’re offering a sample that shows the best of what you can do and hooks the reader fast. This is where excerpt selection matters a lot.
Why Does Your Excerpt Matter?
Picture this: a reviewer gets piled under dozens of requests a week. They can’t read every full book, so they rely on your excerpt to decide if it’s worth their time. If you send a dull or slow part, chances are they’ll put it down and move on. But if your excerpt’s strong — gripping opening, clear voice, and some actual conflict or character development — you’re setting yourself up for a better chance to get book reviewed.
Picking the Perfect Excerpt
Here are a few tips that have worked for tons of authors:
- Start with a hook: Your excerpt should begin where the story’s energy is already running high. That could be a moment of tension, a snappy dialogue, or a compelling character introduction.
- Keep it self-contained: Pick a section that makes sense on its own without the full book context. Readers (and reviewers) should be able to grasp the main idea or feel intrigued without having read the previous chapters.
- Show off your writing style: This is your chance to flaunt your voice. Whether it’s lyrical prose, witty banter, or sharp suspense, make sure this excerpt represents your writing well.
- Length is key: Usually, excerpts between 1,000 and 2,500 words work well — not too short that they can’t get the flavor, not too long that it becomes a burden.
- Avoid info dumps: Skip sections heavy on world-building or exposition that slow things down. Instead, choose scenes with action or dialogue that move things forward.
Where to Send Your Excerpts
If you’re looking to snag some free or paid reviews, consider reputable book review sites and book review blogs that accept submissions. Many offer clear guidelines about the excerpt format, so always check those first! Also, some review sites have their own book review submission portals which streamline the entire process. This means you don’t have to guess what they want—they tell you exactly how to submit and sometimes even how long your excerpt should be.
Using Services Like Feedback Frontier
One platform I recommend when you’re serious about gaining honest, insightful reviews is Feedback Frontier. They focus on connecting authors with experienced readers who provide meaningful feedback and reviews. If you want to Get Your Book Reviewed Today — and I mean really stand out with good reviews — Feedback Frontier is an excellent place to start.
Final Thoughts
Excerpt selection might seem like a small step in the whole review process, but it’s a pivotal one. Remember, a captivating excerpt not only shows off your writing but also respects the reviewer’s time, making it more likely to get you that coveted review. So don’t just send whatever you think is the “best scene”—be strategic. Look at your manuscript with a fresh perspective and pick a piece that authentically entices.
Next time you’re planning your book review submission, invest a little time in choosing that perfect excerpt. It could make all the difference between “Thanks, but no thanks” and “This book rocks!”
Alright, hope this helps you out with your author journey. Oh — and before I forget, if you want to explore more about how to get reviews and connect with genuine readers, check out Feedback Frontier. It’s like having your own review squad ready to boost your book’s visibility and credibility.
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