Asking for Blurbs - Tips for Writers

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Authors (and publishers) like to have blurbs (recommendation quotes) from other authors. Sometimes, your publisher/publicist will help you acquire them. If they don’t, here are some tips to help you request them.

  • Start with writers in your genre. It’s always good to have others in the industry blurb your book. It also helps if they read/write the type of book you do. They understand the conventions and the readers. (I wouldn’t ask a fantasy author to blurb a cozy mystery.)

  • Seek out your published writer friends. My writing and critique group friends have been very generous with their time. You may find folks who share an agent or publisher with you who would be willing to trade blurbs.

  • Don’t ask the same people to blurb each of the books in your series.

  • Look at the book bloggers in your genre. They may be willing to give you a blurb if it’s the type of book that they recommend and read.

  • Give those you are requesting to help you as much lead time as possible. Everyone is busy.

  • Make it easy for the person. After they agree to send you a quote, send them an ARC (Advance Reader Copy). Also provide a short summary or synopsis of the book.

  • Don’t be disappointed if you get a “no” or “not right now.” Again, everyone is busy.

  • Think outside of the box. If there is an expert in a field related to your story, he or she may be a good option for an endorsement.

  • After your book is published, collect the reviews in a document. Many publishers will ask for “praise for” quotes. These are often included inside of the other books in the series. You can also make graphics of the great ones to use on your social media sites.

  • Always thank the person who takes the time to read your work and send you a quote.