Issue 019
A note from Michelle...
I don't like asking for help.
Sometimes, after a full day of proofreading and working on my business, I'm exhausted. I still have chores and cleaning to do, the dogs need to go out, dinner needs to be fixed, dishes need to be washed, and the list goes on...
Even with all that on my plate, I find it hard to ask for help. I feel like I'm bothering someone, and asking makes me feel icky.
Are you like that, too?
What about when it comes to asking readers to review your book? Does that feel icky to you?
If so, today's email will help you get over that icky feeling and learn how and when to ask for reviews confidently.
Why does asking for book reviews feel so icky?
Sharing your writing is already vulnerable—so asking strangers to review your book can feel uncomfortable, even a little “icky.” Many authors wrestle with this tension: you want feedback, but you don’t want to come across as pushy or salesy.
With so much conflicting advice out there—spam your list, offer tons of incentives, blah, blah, blah—it’s easy to feel stuck. Those tactics might get a few reviews, but they can also leave both you and your readers feeling pressured.
There’s a better way.
Instead of forcing reviews, focus on building genuine relationships, choosing the right timing, and communicating clearly and respectfully. When you do, you create natural opportunities for readers to support your work—without compromising your integrity or their trust.
How do you get reviews without being pushy and feeling salesy?
The key is to focus on relationships rather than results. When you shift your mindset from “I need reviews” to “I want to offer readers a meaningful experience,” everything about the process becomes smoother and more authentic.
Here's how:
- Start with genuine connection.
- Make your ask optional and respectful.
- Focus on timing.
- Keep your language simple and sincere.
- Keep your ask clear and low-pressure.
- Use language that gives readers an easy out.
- Choose the right place to ask.
- Avoid over-following up.
- Lead with gratitude, not expectation.
I put a guide together for you so you can dive deeper into asking for book reviews without feeling...icky.
