Reviewers are readers, not unpaid advertising
A reviewer who covers cozy fantasy may have no reason to read your literary family drama. Read their latest articles and review policy first. Filter the BookSirens direct-reviewer directory by genre, independent authors, open requests and preferred ebook formats. A free direct pitch is distinct from optional managed promotional services.
Five angles to personalize
Try a review request when the book matches recent coverage; a book-club invitation for reading-group fiction; an original interview for an interesting author story; a translation-process essay for literary blogs; a post-publication follow-up only if the site permits it. Don't claim the same offer fits everyone.
Review email template
Subject: Review consideration — [Title], [accurate genre]Replace every bracket and do not send a mass copy.
Hi [Name], I saw your review of [similar book] and noticed that you accept indie [genre] ebooks. My novel [Title] follows [character] as [concrete conflict]. Here are the description and free first chapters: [link]. Would you consider an EPUB for an honest independent review? No preferred rating or deadline. Thank you.
Guest interview email template
Subject: Original author interview idea — [distinctive true story]An interview isn't a review, and the author must check all personal claims.
Hi [Editor], your recent interview on [topic] made me think an original conversation about [genuine creative problem] might suit your readers. My author background is [two factual sentences]. Would you consider a written Q&A? I can provide first-person answers, book details and photographs if invited.
Book-club email template
Hi [Host], I saw your club reads [relevant genre]. [Title] explores [discussion-worthy tension] and has a free opening sample. I can share ten original discussion questions and answer reader questions by email or, subject to scheduling, online. Would this suit a future reading session?Do not promise free physical books or live appearances without author agreement.
Literary magazine pitch
Hi [Editor], I am proposing an original essay on [craft question], based on [verified personal experience]. It would explain [specific insight useful to readers], not promote a release. Does this fit your published guidelines? I can prepare a new, author-approved draft.If the outlet prohibits generative AI, the submitted text must be written without it.
Rights inquiry vs reader pitch
A publisher or subsidiary-rights agent needs true publication history, manuscript word count, full synopsis including the ending, and information on which language/territory/format rights remain available. Do not recycle a blogger note for them. Review existing distribution agreements before claiming rights are free.
Keep the evidence
Track recipient, policy URL, last post, genre, sent date, reply, promised materials and any live publication URL. Never buy favourable reviews. A sent message is not confirmed delivery or a published mention. For a real example of public reviewer resources see Nadi Petrova's media page.