Reviewing Books | Bloggers Lair | Yakezie Forums

The Wall Street Chalkboard (Jeff) said:

I got an email asking me to read Hill Harper's new book "The Wealth Cure" and then to write a blog post review on it. Generally, are there any benefits of doing this? Or do bloggers do this just to help promote the book for free?

Sometimes people host giveaways too.  That message also said that there's an opportunity to interview him as well about the book. It might help drive some traffic to your site since the book is in pre-release.  I'm passing though.

I got asked as well. I decided to pass, I wish I could create more than 24 hours a day to get all I want done!

Agree with Sandy that it might drive traffic to the site pre-release. Does seem like an interesting opportunity.

I, also, was asked.  I agreed to do it.  I like to read, so I have a hard time turning down a free book.  There's really very little "in it" for you as a blogger though.  You get the free book, maybe some access to the author (a webinar in this case), and something you can give away or sell. 

I agreed to do it as well. Looks like she made it around the Yakezie list! haha

See if the book is any good at first.

If it does turn out to be good – and you're the first one to write a review on it, interview the author, it helps bring traffic to your website for people who are interested in the TOPIC of "The Wealth Cure."

Also, you may begin building a healthy relationship with the author. Then he and other authors in his network may appreciate your feedback/promotions/reviews.

Build relationships and the wealth will come naturally :).

I received the same email. Since I never heard of this guy, I wasn't going to do it; but his other books received great reviews on Amazon. Maybe I'll see if my wife wants to review it for me – I have no time!

You may be able to hold a giveaway and gain subscribers that way, or at least get a little traffic if the book is publicized well.

I did a few book reviews a while back (probably over a year) and I didn't really find it worth it.  There was only one book I really enjoyed reading, the reviews didn't generate any real comments, discussions, or traffic.  I didn't get any affiliate advertsing to speak of, and the time you invest to properly read the book and then write the review is much higher than what it takes for a regular post.  I found that I could get four or five meaningful posts that my readers seem more interested in the time it takes to do everything with the review. 

So, I've been passing.

Sustainable PF said:

I really hope to be asked to review the updated version of David Chilton's The Wealthy Barber.  That book was, and still is, PF gospel here in Canada.

Don't wait around to be asked.  Figure out who the publishing imprint is and find their PR email address.  Email them a short intro to your site with a few of the subscriber stats and ask for a review copy of the book when they become available.  It doesn't work everytime, but I've gotten quite a few fiction books that way.  They're always looking for PR for new books.  If you come to them first, it saves them some trouble in finding reviewers.