So one thing I’ve had in my mind lately is whether or not I should ask more established authors if they would like an advanced copy of my book in the hopes that they will love it enough to give me a glowing blurb. There’s a lot of fear that goes into it, and also some uncertainty. I’ve also read that blurbs, while nice, don’t always translate into sales. So the question remains, should I do it?
I think the biggest fear for me is not if the author likes the book. I can handle people rejecting my work. I have an inbox full of rejections that prove it. I think the biggest thing for me is being told that I’m being unprofessional. Asking for a blurb reminds me a lot of cold calling in sales. You are going up to someone you don’t know and asking them to take time away from their busy lives to give you something in return. Some people are appreciative of it, some don’t care for it.
The latter worries me the most only because in this day and age of social media, it’s easy to go and start bad mouthing someone. Then you end up with a reputation you don’t want even before your career begins. It’s a risk, and one you need to be sure you are going to take.
For me, I think the risk is worth it. Will it work out? I don’t know. But I can’t let fear stop me. Sure I might get some angry responses, but I also might meet some great people along the way. Life is full of risks and regrets, and sometimes you just have to take the leap if you want to achieve your dreams.
What do you think about blurbs? Would you ask for one?
Jake Martinez - Author 