How to ask a book influencer to read your book

Book influencers can be an incredibly valuable resource for authors looking to promote their work. With a strong social media following and a deep passion for reading, book influencers can help you get your book in front of a wider audience and generate buzz for your work. But how do you go about asking a book influencer to read your book? Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Research and select the right book influencers.
   
   The first step in asking a book influencer to read your book is to research and identify the right influencers for your work. Look for book influencers who are interested in your genre or subject matter, and who have an engaged and active social media following. Consider the size of their following, the type of content they share, and how often they post. You want to find influencers who align with your book's audience and who will be excited to promote your work to their followers.

2. Engage with the influencer's content.
   
   Once you've identified potential book influencers, take the time to engage with their content. Follow them on social media, like and comment on their posts, and share their content with your own followers. By engaging with their content, you'll build a relationship with the influencer and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
   
   *DO NOT leave comments promoting your book. That’s like someone going to a book club and talking about the book they wrote rather than the one being discussed. Show your support for the creator without making it about you.

3. Reach out with a personalized email.
   
   When it's time to reach out to the book influencer, do so with a personalized email. Keep it breif but introduce your book, and then explain why you think their audience would be interested in your work. Be specific about how your book aligns with the influencer's interests and content, and provide a brief synopsis of your book. Keep your email short and to the point, but make sure you include a strong marketing hook.

4. Follow up, but don't be pushy.
   
   If you don't hear back from the book influencer right away, don't give up hope. Follow up with a friendly email a week or two later to see if they have had a chance to consider your request. However, be sure not to be pushy or demanding in your follow-up. Remember that book influencers are busy people and may not have the time or resources to read every book they are sent.

5. Say thank you

   Be sure to say thank you if an influencer accepts your book and especially if they post about it. Let them know that you appreciate their support. By expressing your gratitude, you'll leave a positive impression and potentially lay the groundwork for future collaborations. It shows that you respect them.

Example Email:

Hi [Influencer’s Name],

I am writing to you because I am a huge fan of your bookish content and I think you would be interested in my [marketing hook] called [Book Title]. As an avid reader and influential voice in the book community, I would be honored if you would consider receiving a promotional ARC to read and share with your audience.

[Optional: Provide a brief summary of your book, its genre, and its target audience.]

If you are interested in receiving an ARC of [Book Title], just reply with your mailing address. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I look forward to the possibility of working with you!

[Your Name]

But also… you can hire me to do this for you 😉