">Get Your Writing Reviewed by Major Publications for Free
BY MARK BARNES
All Writers need the press, especially new writers. As a new novelist, I know I need name recognition. The best way for me to get the public to learn about my novel, The League, I figured, was to get some reviews in major magazines and newspapers.
Now, being unknown, this might seem like a tall task. It really isn’t. In fact, I was shocked by how simple it really is.
In looking for media coverage for the May 2005 release of my novel, I first decided to approach magazines that focus on the area that is most closely related to the plot of my novel. So, I started with fantasy football magazines and websites, since my novel is about a group of wealthy men who play fantasy football for $30 million prize.
My approach was simple but effective. I emailed the editor or publisher of as many magazines and websites as I could find that focus on professional football and fantasy football. I sent them the synopsis of my book, and I told them that my book has major appeal, because it is the only work of fiction of its kind. Then, I asked them for a review in their magazine or just a quote that I could put on the dust cover of my novel, with a tagline that would also promote their magazine or website.
I found this method of self-promotion to be a lot like sales. I got about a five percent return - that is five percent of the people I contacted actually gave me a review or a quote. All, just because I asked.
So, when you write your article, short story or novel, don’t hesitate to ask people to review your work. You’ll be shocked at the results.
Mark Barnes is the author of the novel, The League, the first work of fiction based on fantasy football. He is also an investment real estate and home loan finance expert.
Like this post? Maybe you'd like to buy me a cuppa joe! It'll help keep me awake to write more, of course. Thanks!Popularity: 4% [?]
Subscribe via email and download Wordpreneur Markets and Wordpreneur Promotion free: 
2 Responses to “Get Your Writing Reviewed by Major Publications for Free”
By Cynthia on Nov 21, 2006 | Reply
This article was too general. I wish that Mr. Barnes had offered a sample letter that a writer can send to potential reviewers.
By Wordpreneur on Nov 21, 2006 | Reply
The idea’s gold, and often overlooked. Good short promotional reminder.
You’re right, a sample letter may have been helpful. Can’t really speak for Mr. Barnes, but I’m guessing he assumed that as writers, we should be able to dash one off with little problem.
Having said that, in my experience, when writing one of these queries, keep it simple, short and direct. Tell the editor who you are (I wrote a book!), what you want (review my book!), and why it would be an excellent idea to give you what you want (because I write about X and your readers love X!).
And, in your queries, don’t forget to say “please” and “thank you.”