Introduction – It’s Not Just About Getting Reviews, It’s About Getting the Right Ones
If you’ve ever read a review that starts with, “I don’t usually read this kind of book, but…” — you already know the problem.
Getting reviews is one thing. Getting reviews from people who actually read, understand, and enjoy your genre? That’s the game-changer.
When a reviewer is a fan of your genre, they speak the language. They appreciate the tropes, recognize the structure, and evaluate your book based on the standards of that category—not some vague, mismatched expectation. And that means better, more useful reviews for you and your future readers.
But here’s the catch: genre-specific reviewers don’t usually fall into your lap. You have to know where to look and how to approach them.
That’s what this guide is for. Whether you write cozy mysteries, dark romance, post-apocalyptic thrillers, or spicy fantasy with morally questionable fae princes—there are readers out there who want what you’re writing.
Let’s help them find you.
Start with Your Ideal Reader in Mind
Before you can find the right reviewers, you need to know exactly who you’re looking for. Not just “people who like books”—but people who love your kind of book.
This step gets skipped more often than you’d think. But it’s the key to making every review request feel targeted, respectful, and welcome.
Know Your Genre Inside and Out
This isn’t just about labeling your book as “fantasy” or “romance.” Readers and reviewers tend to organize their preferences around subgenres, tropes, and themes.
Ask yourself:
- Is it romantic suspense or small-town sweet romance?
- Is it urban fantasy with found family or grimdark sword-and-sorcery?
- Is your sci-fi space opera, climate dystopia, or cyberpunk?
Bonus tip: Write down 2–3 comp titles—books similar to yours in tone, content, or structure. This helps reviewers instantly know if your book fits their tastes.
Define Your Ideal Reviewer
You’re not just looking for anyone with an Amazon account. You're looking for people who naturally gravitate toward your genre and already read books like yours.
Think about:
- What other authors they likely follow
- What language they use in reviews (do they focus on pacing? spice level? world-building?)
- Where they spend time online (Are they on TikTok? In a cozy mystery Facebook group? Active on r/Fantasy?)
The more specific your mental picture, the easier it will be to find those people—and avoid the ones who won’t connect with your story.
Platforms That Help Match Reviewers by Genre
If you want to find readers who already enjoy books like yours, you need to go where they’re actively looking for their next read. The platforms below do more than connect you with warm bodies—they help you get in front of genre-aligned reviewers who are eager to find books that fit their tastes.
Let’s break down the best ones for indie authors.
StoryOrigin & BookFunnel
These platforms are best known for email-building and group promos, but they also offer review tools that connect you with genre-specific readers.
How to use them for reviews:
- Create a review copy landing page and share it via promo events.
- Join group promos with other authors in your genre—many readers joining these events are review-friendly.
- Readers opt in knowingly, so they’re more likely to be genuinely interested in your book.
Best for:
- Authors with even a small email list
- Genres with active indie communities (romance, fantasy, sci-fi, etc.)
- Building long-term reader relationships while collecting reviews
BookSirens & Booksprout
These two platforms were designed with genre-based review discovery in mind. Readers sign up by choosing what genres they want to read, so your book is only shown to people already into your niche.
BookSirens
- Readers must maintain a solid review rate to stay active.
- You can see stats like average review length and star ratings.
- Strong filters by genre, spice level, trigger content, and more.
Booksprout
- Offers review deadlines and reminders to keep readers accountable.
- Includes automated follow-ups and tracking tools.
- Especially useful for authors writing series or planning multiple launches.
Best for:
- Authors in romance, mystery, fantasy, and other active genres
- Those wanting a more hands-off ARC process
- Getting early, honest, genre-specific reviews
Goodreads Groups
Goodreads may be chaotic, but the groups feature is still one of the most targeted ways to reach readers by genre—especially if you’re willing to participate a bit first.
How to use them:
- Search for groups by genre, trope, or subgenre (e.g., “Paranormal Romance ARC Exchange” or “Thriller & Suspense Book Reviewers”).
- Look for threads or dedicated spaces where review requests are allowed.
- Always follow the group’s rules—no drive-by promo posts.
Pro tip:
Don’t just drop a link and run. Engage. Comment on other threads. Offer a clear, respectful pitch:
“Hi! I’m looking for a few reviewers for a [subgenre] ARC—think [Comp Title 1] meets [Comp Title 2]. Happy to provide ebook copies. Just message me if interested!”
The Niche Reviewer Blog Scene
Yes, book bloggers still exist—and many of them have incredibly loyal, genre-focused followings. Even if they’re smaller, a thoughtful review on a blog (and cross-posted to Goodreads/Amazon) can carry weight.
How to find them:
- Search “[your genre] + book review blog”
- Look for bloggers who actively review indie or self-published books
- Check if they list their review policy and contact info
When reaching out:
- Be professional and polite
- Personalize the message (mention something they’ve reviewed that’s similar to your book)
- Offer formats they prefer (usually EPUB or MOBI)
- Be clear: “No pressure—only if it sounds like a fit for your interests”