Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Shawn Lamb on July 26, 2012 at 12:30pm

Kirkus charges upwards of $500 to review a self-published book. Not exactly a good investment considering how many book sales it would take to recoup the expense. Nor have I heard from anyone who got a Kirkus review that it dramatically increased sales.

Permalink Reply by Judith Glynn on July 26, 2012 at 12:39pm

I bought a Kirkus review for my self-published novel just as I started to promote it but I'd never go back for my second book presently being considered by an agent. It was a horrendous, snaky review where I felt the reviewer had only read half the book based on his/her comments. It also deflated me for several months. The review was expensive. You could spend your money in a better place. Obviously, I didn't publish their review...but I will promote the wonderful mention I'm getting in a Boston area magazine and its Web site...plus the mention on its way in an airline magazine. So much for the Kirkus pan of my novel.

Judith Glynn

Permalink Reply by Linda Gould on July 31, 2012 at 2:22pm

I had a similar experience with Kirkus--a mean-spirited, non-comprehending "review" that seemed to be based on a skimming of the book, if that.  

Permalink Reply by Sheri L. Swift on July 27, 2012 at 1:07pm

I know it might sound crazy to some, but I don't like the idea of having to PAY anyone for a review of my book.  We Indie's don't make much and even that has to be put into a cover/edit.  My theory is that if you get enough attention from customers then the reviews will come.  ;)

Permalink Reply by Jane Goldsmith on July 31, 2012 at 6:06pm

I submitted my manuscript a few weeks ago to Kirkus Reviews, with the support of my editor/imprint owner who is publishing my novel (in September).  I'm now waiting for the review.  The comments of others who've used Kirkus are making me quite nervous!  I'm hoping for a good enough review to be able to use it in publicity, but I'm not overly optimistic...but we'll see.