7 Ways to Write Great Book Reviews

In last week's guest post, Nick Daws explained eight ways that authors can benefit from reviewing other books. Today he shares some terrific tips for writing effective book reviews.

7 Ways to Write Great Book Reviews

by Nick Daws

Book reviewing is an art, and some people are better at it than others. If you're not too confident about reviewing, here are my top tips to set you on the right path. . .

• When reviewing novels and other fiction, always follow the golden rule - never give away the whole plot!

• In fact, there is little point simply describing what happens in a novel anyway, since this will certainly be covered in the blurb. Instead, talk about things you liked and disliked, what you thought of the characters, what aspects of the novel you found particularly moving or memorable, and so on.

• Study other people's reviews, especially the top reviewers on Amazon. See what makes their reviews so popular and effective, and try to incorporate what you learn in your own reviewing.

• At the same time, though, try to develop your own style. Don't be afraid to include a few personal tidbits, e.g. by mentioning if your partner, child or dog enjoyed the book too! People love quirky, entertaining reviews, as long as they still impart useful information about the book concerned.

• With non-fiction books, think about who will be reading the book and why. This is especially important when reviewing "how-to" type books. Put yourself in the position of someone who wants to know whatever is set out in the book's title and description. In your review, discuss the extent to which you think the book lives up to its promises.

• Try to avoid being entirely positive or entirely negative in your review. In the former case, readers are likely to conclude that you're a friend of the author or just trying to generate affiliate sales. In the latter case, they may conclude that you hold a grudge against them! Aim to provide a balanced review, saying honestly what you liked and what you didn't.

• Finally, if you are reviewing a book on your own blog or website, don't forget to invite comments from your readers as well. Reader comments will generate more interest in the review itself, and will also help attract more search engine traffic in future.

So there you are - seven tips for writing great book reviews. Happy book reviewing!

About the Author

Nick Daws is a UK-based freelance writer, editor and writing teacher. He is also an Amazon Vine book reviewer. Check out his blog and his home page. You can also follow him on Twitter.

Learn More

For examples of how to write great book reviews, see Nick's reviews of Facebook Guide for Authors and Twitter Guide for Authors.

Learn more about how to write book reviews in The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, by Mayra Calvani and Anne K. Edwards.