The Grassroots Reviewer

Book bloggers are the unsung heroes of the publishing industry. There's so little written about them yet they are the seeds of change. An unknown author could conceivably strike it big by the strength of their reviews.

With a few choice words they tell the world how they feel about a book. Feelings are important. A book is more than just words and story. It's about passion and connecting with the reader.

That's why I hold so much stock in a book blogger's opinion. They spread a message.

It doesn't matter if you're an indie, a small press author, or a Big 6 megastar, book bloggers have a grassroots influence that transcends any fancy advertising you can buy.

Today, I'm visiting Jackie Burris. This is an extra special post because if you have a question about review blogs, you have an honest-to-goodness book blogger you can ask. So stop by. Add yourself to Jackie's follower list and feel free to join in on the conversation.

I met Jackie totally by accident when I was browsing on Goodreads. I noticed her avatar (one very cute Chihuahua) on one of my friends' lists and I clicked on her link. Well, Jackie is also from Texas and that was all it took for me to send a friend request. The rest as they say is history.

I hope you'll visit her and say howdy.

Comments

Misha Gerrick said…
So true. We sometimes take them for granted, but reviewers really can make or break story sales.

And they give me a heads up on what I should be reading. :-)
Jackie said…
Okay on the heads up on what to read, I totally agree with Misha as thanks to my fellow book loving bloggers my shelves and e-reader are bursting!

Been away from my computer most of the day for one reason and another and your post was in my email Maria.. Looking forward to tomorrow at Megan and the girls's place!
Maria Zannini said…
Misha: I keep a list of books that reviewers I trust have recommended. So not only do I have a TBR pile. I have a list of TBB (to be bought) too.

Jackie: I've been in and out all day too. :) Company is here now.
Michelle Fayard said…
I agree that nothing will ever replace a beautifully written book and word-of-mouth publicity.
Anonymous said…
So true.
I have also started reading the review comments on Amazon but often those who really don't get the books get given the 'most helpful review' status which is galling! Hubby and I often like the films taht are only given 2 stars in the TV magazine. :O)
Maria Zannini said…
Michelle: word of mouth trumps all.

Madeleine: That's weird. My husband and I are the same way. What gets a poor reception we generally love.
jonathanfigaro said…
I can only agree with Misha. Book reviews say alot and does a lot. It goes along way. What someone says something about a book can change the readers perspective for eternity. Trust in book reviews, they go a very long way.
Maria Zannini said…
Jonathan: Welcome! Reviewers are aces, but you still have to find the book blogger whose tastes resemble yours. Once you find them, I never let them go.