Book blogging can be incredibly rewarding, but let’s be honest—buying every book you want to review can quickly drain your budget. The good news? Publishers, authors, and platforms are actively looking for book bloggers to help spread the word about new releases. Here’s your comprehensive guide to building a library of review copies without spending a fortune.
Start with the Basics: Build Your Platform
Before publishers will trust you with their advance review copies (ARCs), you need to establish credibility. Focus on creating quality content consistently, even if you’re starting with books you’ve purchased yourself. Publishers want to see that you can write thoughtful reviews, post regularly, and actually have readers who will see their books.
Make sure your blog clearly displays your review policy, contact information, and examples of your best work. A professional-looking site signals that you’re serious about book blogging and worth the investment of a free book.
Master the Art of NetGalley
NetGalley is the holy grail for book bloggers seeking review copies. This platform connects publishers directly with reviewers, but getting approved for titles requires strategy. Start by requesting books from smaller publishers or less popular titles to build your approval ratio. Publishers can see your statistics, so a high approval-to-request ratio makes you more attractive for future titles.
When writing NetGalley requests, be specific about why you want that particular book and how you’ll promote it. Mention your blog’s focus areas, your social media following, and any relevant experience. Generic requests rarely get approved, especially for highly anticipated releases.
Connect Directly with Publishers
Don’t limit yourself to NetGalley. Many publishers have their own blogger outreach programs that aren’t widely advertised. Research publishers whose books align with your blog’s focus and reach out directly through their websites. Look for publicity or marketing contacts, and craft personalized emails explaining your blog, your audience, and why you’d be a good fit for their titles.
Smaller and independent publishers are often more accessible and eager to work with bloggers. They may not have the marketing budgets of major houses, making blogger reviews even more valuable to them.
Build Relationships with Authors
Authors, especially debut novelists and those from smaller publishers, are often thrilled to connect with bloggers. Engage with authors on social media, comment thoughtfully on their posts, and share their content. When you do reach out for review copies, you’ll already have an established relationship.
Many authors are happy to send digital copies of their books in exchange for honest reviews. They understand the power of word-of-mouth marketing and appreciate bloggers who can help them reach new readers.
Explore Book Tour and Blog Tour Opportunities
Book tour companies organize promotional campaigns where bloggers sign up to host authors, share excerpts, or review books as part of a coordinated effort. These tours often provide free books in exchange for participation. Companies like Rockstar Book Tours, Silver Dagger Book Tours, and many others regularly seek blogger participants.
Blog tours can also help you discover new authors and genres while building relationships within the blogging community.
Utilize Library Resources Creatively
Your local library isn’t just for borrowing books to read for pleasure. Many libraries participate in early access programs or have relationships with publishers that allow them to offer advance copies to patrons. Some libraries also host book clubs or review programs that provide free copies to participants.
Digital library services like Hoopla and OverDrive often have review copies available before official publication dates, giving you access to new releases without waiting for physical ARCs.
Join Professional Organizations
Organizations like the American Library Association offer memberships that include access to review copies and advance reading copies. While there’s usually a membership fee, the value of the books you’ll receive often exceeds the cost.
Similarly, some genre-specific organizations offer review programs. Romance Writers of America, Mystery Writers of America, and other groups often have blogger outreach initiatives.
Leverage Social Media Strategically
Publishers increasingly value bloggers with strong social media presence. Use Instagram, BookTok, Twitter, and Facebook to showcase your reviews and engage with the book community. Tag publishers and authors in your posts, use relevant hashtags, and participate in reading challenges and book discussions.
Many publishers run social media contests specifically for bloggers and bookstagramers, offering free books in exchange for posts and engagement.
Be Professional and Reliable
The most important factor in receiving more review copies is proving you’re worth the investment. Always meet your review deadlines, write thoughtful and honest reviews, and promote the books as promised. Publishers keep lists of reliable reviewers, and being on those lists opens doors to better titles and more opportunities.
If you can’t review a book for any reason, communicate that promptly rather than simply ignoring it. Publishers appreciate honesty and will be more likely to work with you again if you handle situations professionally.
Diversify Your Review Sources
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to multiple platforms, reach out to various publishers, and maintain relationships with different sources. This approach ensures a steady stream of review copies and reduces your dependence on any single source.
Consider international publishers as well—many are eager to break into new markets and value reviews from English-language bloggers.
Track Your Success and Analyze What Works
Keep detailed records of your requests, approvals, and review completion rates. This data helps you understand which approaches work best for your blog and allows you to refine your strategy over time. You can also use these statistics when approaching new publishers or requesting particularly popular titles.
Building a robust collection of review copies takes time, patience, and consistent effort. Start small, focus on building relationships and credibility, and gradually work your way up to the publishers and titles you most want to review. Remember that every successful book blogger started exactly where you are now—with passion for books and the willingness to share that enthusiasm with others.
The key is persistence combined with professionalism. Publishers and authors want to work with bloggers who are genuinely enthusiastic about books and committed to helping them reach readers. Show them that you’re that blogger, and the free books will follow.
