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As a customer

As a customer, my experience with Reedsy Discovery has been overwhelmingly positive. The platform offers a treasure trove of independent books that might otherwise be overlooked. The interface is user-friendly, making it easy to browse through a diverse range of genres. What sets Reedsy Discovery apart is the quality of the book reviews. The reviewers are insightful and provide thoughtful, detailed feedback that has helped me find some truly hidden gems. Additionally, the ability to follow favorite reviewers and receive personalized recommendations has enhanced my reading journey. Overall, Reedsy Discovery is a fantastic resource for any book lover looking to explore the indie literary world.

Date of experience : July 15, 2024

I found an amazing cover artist for my…

I found an amazing cover artist for my most recent book using Reedsy and am amazed at how successful the collaboration was. I plan to use Reedsy again for editing and other services.

Date of experience : March 08, 2024

Trustworthy marketplace

Intuitive and thorough, this platform is a remarkable marketplace of vetted services and skillful, talented professionals. My editors and cover designers have been found via Reedsy, and I know I wouldn't be having the success in my books without this trusted resource.

Date of experience : December 12, 2023

The many facets of Reedsy

There are many facets to Reedsy so every author should be able to find something worthwhile here. For me it's access to their collection of experts which sets them apart. I found a cover designer that I can't imagine finding anywhere else.

Date of experience : June 19, 2024

Reedsy is professoinal

Reedsy is, amongst the 'Wild West; of the publishing world, a place where writers can safely meet and hire the professionals they need. Reedsy is a business, vets its 'employees', has a strong contract and safe financial arrangements. It might be expensive but Reedsy is secure and a writer feels safe and confident employing any of the Reedsy people.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Reedsy has been my go to for publishing…

Reedsy has been my go to for publishing my first book. It was important to me to have control over the quality of my book, and it's so helpful to have access to industry professionals all in one place to help me at every stage.

Date of experience : June 03, 2024

Writers goldmine

Reedsy is a great platform for writers, especially those who are just starting out. With tools to help you write your first chapter all the way to publication advice, this platform has a great support network.

Finding an editor on Reedsy

I found my editor on Reedsy and am very happy about my collaboration with her. Level of professionalism, attention to detail, love for the language and for the imagery the language can create. My overall experience with Reedsy is very good.

Date of experience : June 28, 2024

Most everything an aspiring author…

Most everything an aspiring author wants to find all in one place. I found Reedsy while researching editors. The site saved me countless hours searching for a good fit in my genre. The site is intuitive such that you can filter your search to a service, genre, or keyword and receive a tailored list of professionals.

Date of experience : June 11, 2024

Reedsy is awesome for self publishing!

This is my first venture in self publishing. I made an agreement with a 'publishing company' that helps self published authors. What a joke. They were horrible. I lucked into finding Reedsy and it has simplified everything. Love the bidding process. The contractors I have dealt with have been excellent. The way you pay keeps you in control. Reedsy has eliminated a great deal of stress. Highly recommend.

Date of experience : June 12, 2024

Reedsy is an excellent platform for anything a writer needs

Reedsy is an excellent platform for authors. It allows you to write your book, hire an editor, find an artist for the cover, and get help with marketing—all in one place. The site is user-friendly and convenient for all your book publishing needs.

Reedsy is well worth it

Reedsy is a new platform for me and not one I had tried before but I have found it really easy to use and also extremely well resourced when it comes to finding editors. As an aspiring Author, it has been great to find a platform where I can reach out to people, explain my project and get an honest reply as well as helpful advice. It's a great platform to use.

Date of experience : May 24, 2024

Easy website to use

Really great website to find and compare professionals to work with. I like that you can filter profiles to find exactly who you are looking for. Payments are done securely through the Reedsy website which feels more secure than doing so independently. I was lucky to find someone brilliant to work with and had no issues. Would use Reedsy again

Date of experience : May 01, 2024

One website for everything!

I joined the Reedsy community as a reader. I enjoyed their short story contests and loved seeing what the contestants shared with us. Then, as an indie author, I began using the Reedsy Editor to format my own manuscript. The platform also allowed me to advertise my ghostwriting career, which was great. I like having one website/tool/platform for everything :)

Date of experience : January 01, 2024

A good value for the small investment

The process was easy to follow, was completed within just a few days, provided a review that was good feedback to me as a new author, and is helping me gain a better understanding of promoting a book, especially as an Indie author! I am very satisfied with the review process and feel it was a very good value for the investment.

Date of experience : June 17, 2024

Their "Best of Lists" Do not Follow Their Rules

Let me start by saying I'm not complaining about the book review my book received, as it was given five stars and a MUST READ recommendation by the reviewer. My issue is that their BEST OF Genre lists do not reflect the best reviews given, and they do not seem to follow either the website's stated "Curated by our reviewers this week" as my reviewer said she had no say in the list, nor do they follow what they told by email when I contacted them about why 3½ and 4 star books were appearing on this list but not my 5 star book. This is what they said: "The most upvoted books will be featured on our lists. People can upvote your book by following the link here..." I proceeded to get my book upvoted so that it had both more upvotes AND a higher star review than a number of other books on the list, and nothing changed. When I continued to question them about it, they simply stopped responding to me. Furthermore, though they have separate "Best Young Adult" and "Best Young Adult Fantasy" lists, 13 of the 25 Best Young Adult Books ARE Fantasy and appear on BOTH lists while 5 Star'ed non-fantasy Young Adult books are ignored. It was an extremely opaque and frustrating process, and they'd flat-out said "Our Managing Editor makes those decisions based on their own personal tastes *regardless* of the published reviews on our site and user upvotes," I would have been annoyed but it's their right to do what they want. However, they instead misrepresent it both to me and the site's viewers and had me uselessly jump through hoops getting more upvotes that had no impact on the result.

Date of experience : August 01, 2023

THE BEST THING ABOUT REEDSY IS THAT EVERYTHING IS RIGHT INFRONTOF YOU

THE BEST THING ABOUT REEDSY IS THAT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO CREATE A BOOK IS RIGHT INFRONT OF YOU, ALL TYPES OF PROFESSIONALS FROM START TO FINISH.THE STAFF IS GREAT AND ALWAYS AVAILABLE.I WORKED WITH GREAT PROFESSIONALS AND THE BOOK STARTED COMING TO LIFE STEP BY STEP ALL THE WAY THROUGH.THEY ALSO HAVE NICE AND USEFUL COURSES. I HIGHLY RECCOMEND REEDSY TO ANY WRITER.

Date of experience : June 09, 2024

Excellent for first time authors!

As a first-time author, I didn’t know where to start in the self-publishing process. I decided to give Reedsy a shot and don’t regret it in the least. The professionals I chose to work with exceeded my greatest expectations; they provided so much help and resources to help me succeed. They were honest with me about their abilities, responded in a timely fashion, and worked with me around my budget. The platform itself is easy to navigate and you will not be charged anything without first accepting an offer and payment plan. Simply put, Reedsy is professional and reliable regardless of where you are along your book publishing process. I highly recommend it!

Date of experience : May 15, 2024

customer support

Reedsy is good for some things, however customer support for book editing/formatting is not a strength. Just accomplished what I needed to through kdp and sharing to help others. KDP is timely and responsive by phone/chat/email. My experiences are over the past 2-3 months, not sure of exact dates. (Update to address response by Reedsy): My issue was not about a book cover.

Date of experience : January 13, 2024

Reply from Reedsy

Dear Meredith, We apologize for the inconvenience you experienced while using our Reedsy Writing App. We understand that you encountered some difficulties, which you discussed with our Support team. During our interaction with you, we realized that you needed to make some changes to your book cover. However, please note that our app is not designed for this purpose. The Reedsy Writing App is primarily meant to assist you with editing your book and automatically formatting it to meet the standards of major publishing services like Amazon KDP. The Reedsy Writing App is completely free for all users. It was created to help authors professionally format their books and prepare them for publishing without paying for expensive licenses on similar apps. The app automatically applies certain elements to your book, such as book chapter titles or a copyright page. We suggest checking out our blog post and FAQ article, which can help you understand how our tool works and what it is designed for. You can access the blog post here: https://blog.reedsy.com/how-to-format-a-book/#formatting_a_book_with_the_reedsy_book_editor and the FAQ article here: https://reedsy.com/faq/writing-app/about-the-writing-app. We hope that this clarifies things for you. We wish you the best of luck with your book and hope that you continue to use and benefit from our Reedsy Writing App. Best regards,

Would not recommend Reedsy

After the way my complaint was dealt with against a so-called "copy editor" and proofreader" I can't recommend Reedsy as a platform as it seems random as to whether or not you get someone who can actually do their job. The assessment of people on the platform is not vigorous enough. And when things go wrong, the facts are not enough to get you back your money as I only received only a small proportion of my costs which was insufficient to employ another proofreader. The original one had promised me that my manuscript, after they had proofed it, would be ready to print, important as I was at that point intending to self publish. It actually contained an unacceptable number of errors. I also spent some considerable time trying to sort out this problem. The response below from Reedsy is not entirely accurate as I did not introduce new errors, and I do have all the copies of the numerous marked-up drafts to prove this, as well as all correspondence with the person in question.

Date of experience : March 04, 2024

Dear Jayne, I'm sorry you had a negative experience with a copy editor (not copywriter) on Reedsy, though I believe you are misrepresenting the facts here. You hired an editor for a copy edit and a proofread, and contacted us after finding that your manuscript had a number of errors left in it after the proofreading stage. We had the work reviewed by our internal team, as well as by a third-party editor. Their conclusion was that the manuscript did indeed contain more errors after both passes as would be acceptable after a proofread, and decided to refund you 20% of the editor's fee to reflect this. This refund amount is determined by analyzing several factors. First, we looked at the proportion of errors left vs the amount of edits that were made in the manuscript. The copy editing work performed by the editor was significant, and the vast majority of remaining errors (including new errors introduced by you between the two editing passes) was caught during the proofreading stage. Second, we looked at the average costs on the Marketplace for copy editing and proofreading in your genre: https://blog.reedsy.com/guide/editing/cost/#costs_depends_heavily_on_genre What you paid for both copy editing and proofreading is under the average for just proofreading — and around half that of copy editing… As a result, we determined that the value you had received was actually higher than what you paid for. Yet, as the manuscript did contain more errors than usual after the proofreading stage, we decided on a 20% refund — which was confirmed as a fair by the third-party editor we consulted. Do note, that it is highly recommended to hire separate editors for copy editing and proofreading if you want a manuscript entirely free of errors. Even a trained eye will miss things, especially upon rereading the same manuscript — and traditional publishers usually hire *several* proofreaders for several rounds of proofreading on their books. I hope this sheds some light into how our Project Protection works. We are definitely disappointed that, after engaging it, and receiving a refund, you chose to post this slanderous review several months later. We still wish you the very best with your book.

WriterSanctuary

Publishing, Blogging, and Freelancing

15 Pros and Cons of Using the Free Reedsy Writing App

Using the Free Reedsy writing app allows new authors to get started on their journey for self-publishing. But is it all that it’s cracked up to be? Although the Reedsy book editor has a lot of functionality, there are some drawbacks to consider.

Though, keep in mind that not everyone has the same opinion when it comes to the pros and cons of any software. As such, these are the things that stand out most to me as an author.

Table of Contents

The Good and Bad of Using the Reedsy Book Editor

It’s no secret that I am a fan of Reedsy. I haven’t been able to afford their professional services as of yet, but the writing app is definitely among my favorites.

Since Reedsy is free to use, you really don’t lose anything but a bit of time trying it out for yourself. You don’t have to pay for their professional services to write your book.

So, what are some things to keep in mind when trying out the writing app for yourself?

Pros of Using Reedsy

Let’s start with some of the highlights that you can expect from Reedsy. I covered a lot of these when I wrote up the review for the platform, but they are still important to me nonetheless.

Most of them play a major role in how I wrote my books, Kingmaker and Fury.

1. Reedsy is Free to Use

First of all, you can’t go wrong with a free writing tool, especially one that has as many features as this one. It is tailor-made for authors and has most of the pertinent elements you’ll need to whip out a great book.

The sign-up process is quick and easy, and you can use your Google or Facebook profiles to create an account. Then, you can start writing as many books as you’d like.

Thanks to the writing prompts and Plot Generator tools, Reedsy will even offer assistance to get you started.

2. Extremely Easy to Use

Perhaps one of my favorite features of using Reedsy is the fact that it’s an easy-to-use writing app. It doesn’t have a lot of clutter and each tool is easily identifiable.

Once you create a new book, you can literally start typing away.

Reedsy isn’t overloaded with writing functions you may never use, and the tool-tip pop-ups when hovering over features are quite self-explanatory.

3. Formats the Book as You Write

I’m a fan of writing apps that format the book as you write. This means you don’t have to think too much about indents, paragraphs, and such as you write.

For a beginner, this is incredibly useful, especially since it gives you an idea of what the book will look like for both eBook and printed formats.

When text wraps around the entire writing space, it can get a bit confusing. Plus, it can pose problematic if you’re trying to avoid walls of text within your manuscript.

4. Notes and Planning Board

A feature Reedsy added in 2023 was the planning board . You can now plan your manuscript, add research notes, upload images, and link to sources easily from the writing app.

For me, this has been instrumental in keeping track of names, places, and objects as I often forget. The planning board is not included when you export the book.

Better yet, you can also pin any page within the planning board to your manuscript. Although this isn’t as effective as something like Scrivener’s split-screen view, it is still a great time-saving feature.

5. Goals and Deadlines

When using Reedsy, you can easily set up goals and deadlines for yourself. This helps you stay focused, motivated, and accountable for writing your book.

Creating goals and tracking my progress are features I often look for first in an app. That’s because these functions are effective at helping me progress, especially considering how busy I am on any given day.

The goals are quite easy to set up and I like how Reedsy will display how many words I need to write each day to achieve my objective.

6. Tracking Comments and Changes

As you edit your manuscript, you can add comments by highlighting a segment of text and leaving a note for yourself. I often use this as a way to remind myself that certain parts need extra attention.

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For example, I often leave notes for myself to expand on a scene, flesh out a few details, or set a reminder to mention something later in the book such as a sub-plot device.

You can also track changes you’ve made to your manuscript and revert it to an earlier version or just to see the difference in the story.

7. Browser Extension Compatibility

Because Reedsy is a web-based app, most browser extensions should work with it as you write. For instance, I am a big fan of the Grammarly Chrome extension , and it works perfectly when using Reedsy.

Another extension I use is the Dark mode extension when I write at night.

This means that if you have an extension installed on your browser for writing, it has a high possibility of working within Reedsy.

I can’t guarantee that it will simply because I can’t test every extension. But I can say that I haven’t had a problem with the writing tools I use.

8. Great Formatting Tool Selection

The Reedsy writing app comes with everything you’ll need to create almost any kind of content. You have all of the necessary elements such as bold, italic, strikethrough, blockquote, and more.

All you need to do is highlight the text you want to modify and Reedsy will pull up the options.

The only problem I’ve had with this function is due to Grammarly. Sometimes when you highlight the text, the options for Grammarly can get in the way of changes.

At that point, you may have to disable Grammarly and then re-enable it when you’re done. I’m currently looking for a workaround for this, such as perhaps a setting in Grammarly. If you know of one, feel free to comment down below.

9. Sharing with Your Beta Readers

Using beta readers can be influential in helping you craft the best book possible. Reedsy makes it easy to share a read-only version of your manuscript with those readers.

The process is relatively simple, and you can share single chapters or the entire book with just a click of the mouse.

One drawback to this, though, is how they will have to scroll through the story instead of being able to “flip pages” as they would in most eBook readers.

Cons of Using Reedsy

Not everything glitters is gold. And although Reedsy is still one of my favorite writing apps, it does have a few drawbacks.

As I said earlier, though, these are elements based on my own opinion. They may or may not be relevant to your experience.

1. No Outside Collaboration

Currently, Reedsy doesn’t have the capacity for collaboration. This means if you’re writing a book with someone or want a friend to help you edit, you can’t do so online.

This means you’d have to export the backup as a DOCX file and share it with those helping you. Then, after changes are made, copy and paste the edited text back into Reedsy.

Or, copy and paste the text into something like Google Docs. Then, copy and paste it back into Reedsy when you’re done.

It’s a bit of a pain, but it is possible. What would be nice is if Reedsy had online collaboration much like Google Docs or Arc Studio where changes are committed in real-time.

2. Limited Formatting Options

When compiling your book, you only have three options available for formatting. In this case, I’m talking about book design elements and fonts.

This is in contrast to Atticus, which offers several pages of formatting options plus the ability to customize your own. Not to mention that you don’t really have a lot of control when it comes to book dimensions and layout in Reedsy.

However, Reedsy does admit that they will be adding formatting options in the future, according to their website. But I haven’t seen any additions since 2021 when I started using the app.

3. Limited Exporting Options

The list of available file types for exporting is quite narrow in Reedsy. You only have access to ePub, MOBI, and PDF, as opposed to Scrivener which gives you access to a slew of file types.

However, the file types Reedsy does provide are the most common for both eReaders and print providers. So, you’re not really missing much when using Reedsy to publish your book.

Although I doubt I’ll ever need other file types when publishing my book, knowing I have the options available is a nice feature.

4. Saving to the Cloud

As Reedsy is a web-based app, it saves your manuscript to its own database. While this is useful for some, I prefer having complete control over where my book is saved.

I suppose I am a bit old-fashioned, but I prefer actual programs on my computer as opposed to web-based apps.

A part of this is because Comcast has a habit of breaking my Internet connection on a regular basis. When this happens, I am unable to write my book on Reedsy.

Now, you can get around some of this by exporting the manuscript or backing it up as a DOCX file. My argument is that I shouldn’t have to.

5. No Split-Screen View

Perhaps I am a bit spoiled by Scrivener, but I relish having a split-screen view as I write. I have my manuscript in one pane and my research and notes in the other.

I know I can have something similar when using Reedsy with pinned notes. The issue is that you can only pin one note at a time and then have to leave the manuscript to select a new element from the planning board to pin should you need.

In Scrivener, I can do this with just two clicks of the mouse. Plus, it’s easy to resize the split-screen view should I need more or less space.

6. No Preview Window

I love being able to see what my book would look like on various devices or as a printed copy. Reedsy doesn’t have a preview feature to show me how the book would appear.

From what I’ve seen, not a lot of writing apps actually provide this function.

I had to upload several versions of A Freelancer’s Tale to Amazon because some of the printed elements were in the wrong place. While it looked OK in the eBook version, the printed copies were less than aesthetically pleasing.

A preview window much like the one in Atticus would be golden for just about any writing app.

In case you’re wondering, I used Kindle Create to format A Freelancer’s Tale, which I doubt I’ll ever use again.

Reedsy is Still Among My Top Writing Tools

In the case of using Reedsy, there are definitely more pros than there are cons. And many of the cons aren’t even deal breakers for most. They are annoyances more than anything.

When you don’t have the money for something like Scrivener or Atticus, Reedsy can be a great introductory platform to help you start with self-publishing.

Even then, a lot of the features that come with Reedsy are comparable to premium platforms.

As of writing this post, I’ve written two books using Reedsy. As a free writing tool, I just think it’s easily among the best you can use.

This is in addition to all of the other free things Reedsy offers, such as writing prompts or its Plot Generator . The site, itself, is just chocked full of writing goodness.

In any event, the overall functionality of Reedsy is clean and I do enjoy using it to write my books.

What’s Your Favorite Writing App?

As I said before, it’s all subjective, really. The best writing app is obviously the one that’s going to be everything you need it to be. As everyone is unique, your needs are going to be different than mine.

For example, I value goals and an easy-to-use interface. Not every author is going to care about such nuances. Hell, some people love using Microsoft Word or LibreOffice to write their manuscripts. To me, both of these platforms are limited.

It all comes down to what you enjoy using the most.

What are your favorite apps or programs for writing?

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Reedsy Review: Is It Worth It for Self-Publishers?

Is Reedsy the answer to finding quality author services for self-published authors?

Self-publishing is a process, and one in which you, as the author, are in charge of.

Many aspiring authors learning how to self-publish a book discover that a huge challenge is finding professionals to work with.

After all, your self-published book’s success relies on finding quality author services like cover design, editing, and marketing.

So, is Reedsy your best bet for a one-stop-shop for author services? Let’s find out!

We want you to make informed decisions when it comes to how and where to invest your money. That’s why our mission is to help educate authors on the various self-publishing companies and services that are on the market today.

Our reviews are meant to be unbiased, 3rd party reviews, but we will speak up if there is a scam or a clearly better option.

Here’s what we found in our Reedsy review:

What is reedsy.

Reedsy is an online author service marketplace that provides book production services to authors in the self-publishing industry.

With its on-demand marketplace model, Reedsy has a variety of freelancers available for hire, specifically in book editing, design, ghostwriting , and more.

Related: Best Self-Publishing Companies

Have you ever struggled to find quality collaborators for your self-publishing project?

Go and pick your favorite book up, and check out the list of acknowledgments. Great books are made by great teams of people.

Just because you happen to be writing in the self-publishing era , it doesn’t mean you actually do everything by yourself!

What is Reedsy Marketplace?

Authors and publishers can hire professionals on the Reedsy Marketplace platform, which includes tools to make collaboration easier, such as writing tools, automated contracts, secure payments, and more. 

If you’re familiar with other marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr, it’s similar to this company, only specific for book publishing services and the freelancers have been fully vetted and approved by the Reedsy Team.

So what exactly does Marketplace have to offer? Let’s review the Reedsy market…

Here are the Reedsy Marketplace services for authors: 

• Editing. Find book editors to polish up your manuscript before you publish your book .
• Designing. Find book cover designers and illustrators. 
• Publicity. Find a publicist to help you grow your audience and find media opportunities. 
• Marketing. Find a marketer to help with your book marketing plan. 
• Ghostwriting. Find a ghostwriter to help you write a book . 
• Web Design. Find a web designer to create your author website or book landing page.

What is Reedsy Discovery?

Reedsy Discovery is a paid platform for self-published and indie authors to connect with book reviewers for exposure. When an author signs up for Reedsy Discovery, their book gets promoted to the reviewer community, and interested reviewers can preview your book and purchase it via your link.

Reedsy Discovery was launched officially in March 2019. The review community is growing, and there are some helpful guides to help you learn how to launch your book on Reedsy Discovery to increase your readership.

Reedsy services

Wondering what types of services you can hire professionals for on Reedsy? We’ll break it all down in this section, but first…

Have you ever hired the wrong collaborator for a book, such as on Fiverr or Upwork?

It can be frustrating. When your creative tank is close to empty (especially after writing a book ), and your to-do list is piling up, having to interact with someone else can feel like the final straw.

One way to reduce the potential frustration of working with a collaborator is to ensure they come from a specialist marketplace , like Reedsy.

With Reedsy, you’ll only have the opportunity to work with people who are a great fit for your self-publishing project.

So which categories of collaborators are available?

#1 – Editors

Are you worried about the quality of your self-published book as a result of editing errors?

Whether you’re writing a novel or writing a nonfiction book , editing is a crucial step in the self-publishing process.

While automated editing tools have come a long way in recent times, there’s still something invaluable about the human experience that only a real editor can provide. 

You can hire the right editor for your self-publishing project, avoiding any embarrassing slips and helping your book become the best it can be.

Here are the types of editing services you can find on Reedsy: 

• Developmental Editing
• Copy Editing & Line Editing
• Editorial Assessment
• Proofreading

No matter the level of editorial assistance your book requires, you can find the right editor for your project.

From our research, we found that many self-published authors were content with the editing services received and gave an overall positive Reedsy review in this category. 

#2 – Designers and illustrators

A lot of readers will automatically skip past a written typo, but a visual design error is usually much easier for the eye to catch. 

No matter if your aim is to avoid a glaring graphical mishap, or to provide a beautiful design your readers will love, you can find professional graphic designers and illustrators to help you.

You can find a variety of professional designers on the Reedsy Marketplace, from children’s book illustrators to book cover designers . 

Here are the graphic design services you can find on Reedsy: 

• Cover Design
• Illustration
• Book Interior Design

You might even try hiring a graphic designer on Reedsy to help you create a visual lead magnet for your book. Or, you can have the same designer create each book cover for your box set series .

Ensure your book’s visuals look fantastic by browsing the Marketplace’s category for designers, to find one that fits your book’s style and vision.

If you’re curious about Reedsy reviews specific to design, take a peak around the Marketplace and view artist portfolios. You can do this for free.

#3 – Publicists

Plenty of people mistrust book reviews these days, fearing systems have been gamed or otherwise manipulated.

If you’re looking for some help getting your book into the hands of the right readers, and don’t have enough hours in the day to chase after media opportunities, the publicist section is the place for you.

Here are the publicity services you can find on Reedsy: 

• Press Coverage

#4 – Marketers

For a lot of authors, writing is its own reward. To sit and see your ideas come to fruition on the page is one of the best feelings out there.

Having to get out and promote it? Often less enjoyable!

For self-publishers looking to get effective help from tried and tested book marketers, check out the Marketplace. Whether you need help setting up a book funnel , implementing KDP ads, optimizing your Amazon Author Central , leveraging book promo sites such as BookBub , or any other book marketing strategy – you might find a marketer to help you get done-for-you services on Reedsy.

We couldn’t find Reedsy reviews specific to the bulk of marketing services offered, and noticed that this was an area where freelance options weren’t as diverse, so always ask for experience and specific results before hiring a Marketing professional on Reedsy.

Related: How To Build Your Email List

Here are the types of book marketing services you can find on Reedsy: 

• Marketing Strategy
• Email Marketing
• Advertising

#5 – Ghostwriters

Sometimes, ghostwriters are needed to assist with a self-publishing project. Ghostwriting is when a professional writer writes content for you, but does not receive the byline or author credit.

Perhaps you want a draft outline to work with, or simply higher levels of output to serve your fans with the next installment of their latest series.

Reedsy currently offers two different types of ghostwriting services:

• Ghostwriting
• Book Proposal

No matter if you’re looking to have your full book ghostwritten, or only its proposal, you can find the right collaborator on Reedsy. 

#6 – Web Designers

Online marketing is an important part of the promotional approach for most creative work these days. 

Whether you want to create an author website on WordPress, or a Shopify store to sell some self-publishing merchandise, or maybe just a book landing page, web design skills will always be useful. 

If you don’t want to take time away from your Work-in-Progress to learn web design, Reedsy has experienced people to help out. 

How does Reedsy work? 

So, how does it feel to get up close and personal and use the Reedsy service? We found that the platform was very user-friendly, and the experience was pretty seamless.

Many companies offer author services that sound enticing, but if the platform is clunky, it ends up being more of a headache than it’s worth. After all, even the most promising features can soon become painful if the experience of using them is subpar.

Thankfully, that isn’t the case with the Reedsy platform, and it was extremely smooth experience as we browsed the site.

We also found that learning how to navigate the Reedsy process was pretty straightforward, and there was live help available via the Reedsy support chat.

Overall, Reedsy had a positive review for user experience and site navigation.

Here’s how to get started with the online platform, and our thoughts on the overall feel of the experience.

Step #1 – Sign up with Reedsy

It’s simple to create an account and begin browsing the range of service providers found on their marketplace.

The initial step requires only an email address, or to link your Reedsy account with Facebook or Google. 

Step #2 – Set your specifications

One area where Reedsy really stands out is in the way it allows you to set your project description. It has plenty of search customization features, but it isn’t overwhelming.

There is also support offered should you encounter any issues or have questions.

Want to choose a particular genre? No problem! Save time and narrow down your options to find the right people for your specific project.

Step #3 – Confirm your collaborator 

After finding the right person, and mutually agreeing on terms, it’s time to start collaborating with your new creative partner.

Step #4 – Collaboration management

Reedsy provides everything you need to manage files, payments, and communication. There’s no need to switch back and forth between different platforms and software.

You can handle it all in one place, while also benefiting from their security and other protection policies. 

Step #5 – Mutual feedback

To keep in line with Reedsy’s ethos of being a specialized, supportive community, both authors and collaborators can give feedback after a project. This helps you to get a feel for if a potential relationship is a good fit or not. 

Overall, it’s refreshing to have a way to collaborate effectively and efficiently in one place, with the needs fo the self-publishing community firmly in mind. 

Reedsy for self-published authors

Does this company serve the self-publishing community in ways other than marketplace provision?

Related: Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing

It appears so. Thankfully, this company is looking to do more than just make it easier for authors to collaborate effectively.

They are also looking to inform, inspire, and assist you on your journey to becoming a more successful self-published author. 

Reedsy Resources

If the world of writing represents fairly stable terrain, the sands of self-publishing are shifting rapidly.

To stay on top of the latest and most useful information, check the following free information:

• Blog. Get insights into the latest from the book design, book marketing, and craft aspects of the self-publishing world. 
• Email Courses. Looking for a more in-depth, but still manageable, educational experience? Reedsy Learning offers small publishing courses at no cost.
• Reedsy Live. Do you prefer the energy and experience of live training? Live offers a selection of webinars just for self-publishers. 

It’s great to see that the company is educational as well as commercial. Raising standards in accessible ways for authors only helps the entire self-publishing world. 

Reedsy Inspiration

Sometimes, knowing that something is possible is as important as knowing how it’s done.

Reedsy’s success stories are valuable ways of reminding yourself that not only is self-publishing possible, but it’s possible for people just like us. When this type of inspiration arrives at the right time, there’s nothing more valuable. 

Reedsy BookEditor  

Looking for a simple and free typesetting tool to help your book look great on the page? Reedsy allows you to help your words look great on the page, and to ensure your front and back matters as they should be.

Some of the things we like about Reedsy BookEditor include:

• Focused. If you want a focused tool that makes your typesetting easier, BookEditor does the job. Why waste time learning an elaborate tool if this one feature is what you need?
• Free. Perhaps you’re paying a typesetting freelancer, or investing in some other solution? Using the BookEditor is one way to simplify and increase the frugality of your book creation process. 

If you already use specialist writing software, you might find that the BookEditor doesn’t offer a real step up. Otherwise, it’s definitely worth checking out. 

Reedsy Discovery  

Sometimes, getting your new book into the hands of the right readers is the toughest challenge. Reedsy’s passionate community of reading fanatics give their verdict on the latest from the indie world. 

So what stood out about Reedsy Discovery?

• Personal. A lot of people miss the days of a human rather than an algorithmic recommendation. In the age of influencer marketing, getting your book into the hands of the right person with real credibility can make a huge difference.
• Quality. In keeping with the company’s brand, these reviews come across as considered and careful. They can be a lot more persuasive than algorithmic suggestions. 

Overall, Reedsy provides a great mix of information and practical tools to help authors reach the next stage in their publishing journey. 

Cons of using Reedsy

So why should you avoid working with this author services company?

There are many pros to Reedsy, but there can also be some cons. This Reedsy review wouldn’t be complete without addressing both sides of the equation.

The following factors might cause you to think about whether Reedsy is the right fit for your self-publishing needs:

• Limited pool of service providers. If you’re looking for the largest number of potential collaborators out there, Reedsy might not be the best place for you. The vetting process typically results in better collaborators, but less of them. If you prefer a larger number at a cheaper price, consider other options.
• Depth of information. Reedsy is great for offering actionable ideas and advice for self-publishers. But if you’re looking for something closer to an MFA, it might not be the best bet.
• Cost. Of course, you can see our collaborators independently, or through any other meeting place, and pay less in the process. However, you might well decide the cost of using this company is justified by the quality, security, and convenience it offers. 
• No audiobook services. At the time of this article, it doesn’t appear that Reedsy offers services for self-published authors looking to publish an audiobook.

Consider the pros and cons of using Reedsy against alternative options available to you, and you’ll soon be able to see if it’s the best fit for your needs.

Still not sure if Reedsy is a good match for your self-publishing project?

Here are some of the most common questions out there, to help you research more in this Reedsy review:

Is Reedsy free?

The information on the site is free, but the actual cost of services provided is not. If you want to hire a professional on Reedsy marketplace for your book publishing needs, you will have to pay the freelancer’s fee, and any fees associated with Reedsy (more on this below).

If you want to read an in-depth blog post, sign up for an email course, or use a tool, you can do so at no cost on Reedsy. However, the actual publication services require payment.

How much does Reedsy cost?

You will pay a project fee (10% or less) and payment fee (2.9%) when you hire a professional on Reedsy’s Marketplace. The overall cost to use their services depends on the service and collaborators you hire. 

This means that you can choose to hire professionals that fall within your specific budget.

Related: Publishing Costs

When collaboration occurs through the marketplace, Reedsy takes the following amount:

• Project fee. Reedsy charges a project fee. 10% is the highest rate collaborators will be charged, and collaborators with a historical record of working together are charged less. This is great, as it encourages an atmosphere of win/win, mutually supportive collaboration. 
• Payment fee. Reedsy also charges a 2.9% payment processing fee. 

It’s good to see that Reedsy has incentivized long-term relationship building into its costing structure.

Where is Reedsy based?

Reedsy receives funding from the European Union but has team members and collaborators from over 600 global cities. It is based in London, but is a virtual remote company, with employees located all over the world. 

The company has a strong remote work ethos, perfect for the collaborative and open self-publishing industry. 

Is Reedsy a vanity publisher?

No, Reedsy is not considered a vanity publisher because it is not a platform where you actually publish books.

A vanity publisher, or vanity press, is a publishing company that requires authors to pay large fees in order to have their book published. These companies have a bad wrap in the self-publishing community, and are often considered scams, because of the high cost and poor quality. Vanity publishers often present themselves falsely to unaware aspiring authors, making them think they are a traditional publishing company that has accepted their book, when in fact, they will publish any book for the right price.

Reedsy is NOT an actual publishing company, but rather a marketplace that provides author services (such as editing and design). Therefore, Reedsy is not a vanity publisher and is safe to do business with.

Is Reedsy safe?

Reedsy freelancers are vetted professionals, that have been approved by the Reedsy team, who reviews each applicant before approving their account. Therefore, you can trust that the freelancers on Reedsy are safe to entrust your book to.

If you ever have any issues with the quality of services rendered, Reedsy’s customer support team is readily available to address any concerns.

Other Reedsy reviews

There’s an abundance of Reedsy reviews online, so we recommend doing more research on the company before you decide to invest!

Here are some places to search for more Reedsy reviews:

• Google. Just search “Reedsy” + “Reviews” or “complaints”
• Facebook groups. Search your private Facebook group for authors for the term “Reedsy” to see any relevant threads. Or, post your own question!
• Reddit and other forums. There’s an abundance of forums to search for Reedsy reviews in.
• Social media. Post on Twitter to ask your author community about their experience. Or, try doing a search on Instagram using hashtags.

Here’s a positive review on Reedsy for editing (from Reddit)…

Here’s an overall 4.7 rating on the Reedsy Facebook page…

You can also check out this video review of Reedsy from Dave Chesson with Kindlepreneur. Keep in mind that this video is from 2015, so Reedsy has grown and changed a bit since then.

Reedsy review: Is Reedsy right for you?

In a nutshell: If you’re looking for quality, vetted professionals and freelancers for author services to help you publish your next book, Reedsy is worth checking out.

If you are in need of a self-publishing company that provides comprehensive education and coaching on the entire self-publishing process, consider a program from Self-Publishing School, our parent company.

However, if you only need help with finding quality services in specific areas of expertise, then Reedsy’s services are worth exploring.

No matter what your book production needs are, you will find qualified professionals ready to provide author services to you. Reedsy’s free information and resources available are also super helpful.

What experiences can you add to this Reedsy review?

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Sunday, July 14, 2024

The weekend review - july 13th-july 15th.

Hi Everyone!  

We're already in mid-July.  The summer is going so fast.  Seems like everyone is dealing with very hot and humid weather.  I hope you are all doing well and surviving the heat, if you are going through it.

I only finished one book this week.  It's probably because I've been binging on Outlander.  It's so good.  If the books weren't so big, I'd be reading them.  Who knows, maybe I will at some point.

I, also, saw one movie this week.  Beekeeper with Jason Stratham.  It was really good.  

Other than that, I've just been staying home and trying to be cool.  I hope you all have a great week!

16 comments:

I definitely recommend reading the early Outlander books! Have a great reading week!

I hope very hot doesn't turn into very cold as I much prefer the hot to cold...lol. I freeze all winter and get very moody. Hope you liked Ellen Byron's new book I can't wait to read it! Have a great week and happy reading! Stormi Week in Review

Catherine Steadman is on my list. I've read a few of her other books and like them.

We've been trying to stay cool, especially after a couple of days without power. I like the idea behind A Very Woodsy Murder.

I've seen great reviews of Lenny Marks gets away with murder. July is going quickly but that's fine; we still have 6 weeks of HOT. July / August always are but especially bad this year. Stay cool! Anne - Books of My Heart This is my Sunday Post

You have some great looking books. I still watch X Files reruns. I read One Big Happy Family and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Hope you do too. sherry @ fundinmental

The summer is going by fast-I can't wait until fall. Keep cool. XO

I agree, the summer and July are going by very fast. I am not ready for summer to be over. Have a great week and happy reading!

We're have some sunshine at present, although the earlier part of the week was cool and rainy. I've been watching Wimbledon tennis, so I haven't read much either this week. Glad you're enjoying Outlander so much and have a great week.

My husband and I watched BEEKEEPER when it was in the theater. We both thought it was good, but it's not our favorite Statham movie. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I haven't read or watched Outlander yet. I've heard a lot of good things. I really need to check one or the other or both out sometime. Have a great week! My Sunday Post

There's so much to keep us busy, it's a wonder we manage to get to as much as we do!

I've been wanting to watch Outlander, but I keep telling myself I should read the books first. Don't know if that will happen anytime soon, though, so I guess I should just watch it! Nicole @ Feed Your Fiction Addiction

Staying cool is a definite challenge lately. Great books on your list. Hope you enjoy your new reads. https://thebookconnectionccm.blogspot.com/2024/07/its-monday-what-are-you-reading-july-15.html

Summer is going really fast. I'm not mad about that. It was 100 degrees this weekend, and I spent it doing traffic control. It was awful.

Hope the weather cools for you, you'd want to dash from one air conditioned place to another.

I like Ellen Byron's writing. I almost requested A Very Woodsy Murder by my review calendar for August is packed to overfull. It has even warmed up here in Minnesota enough to turn on the air conditioning. Come see my week here . Happy reading!

Thank you for stopping by and visiting my blog! I always love reading comments and getting to know my readers! After some careful consideration, I've decided to become an award-free blog. Although I appreciate and am honored by each and every award I've received, your comments and friendship are enough award for me. Thank you all so much for your thoughtfulness. Due to way too many spam comments, I disabled the Anonymous User comments. We'll see if this works, otherwise I'll have to go back to word verification.

Create a free Bookclubs account to organize your book club, get reading recommendations, view hundreds of discussion guides, and more!

The Ultimate List of Book Club Discussion Questions for Fiction and Non-Fiction

Updated: Jan 10, 2024

Zoe Epstein

Have you ever found yourself in a lackluster book club where the discussion feels forced or superficial? If so, you’re not alone. At Bookclubs, we know meaningful conversation is instrumental to a rewarding book club experience. That's why we provide an online platform for discovering new books and organizing your club's meetings and discussions.

Our ultimate list of book club questions is designed to reinvigorate your book conversations , whether you’re already in a book club or looking to start one. With questions tailored to fiction and nonfiction works across genres, we aim to help you uncover deeper insights, connect with your fellow members on a more personal level, and simply get people talking.

So dive into our hand-picked discussion questions below, and when you're ready to take your book club to the next level, organize your next meeting and manage your club membership with Bookclubs.com or the Bookclubs app . From scheduling meetings and polling members , to tracking books and facilitating discussion with ready-made book club questions , we have all the tools you need to focus on the joy of reading together.

Jump ahead to the table of contents , or scroll down to find:

• Part I: Book club questions for any and all books
• Part II: Fiction book club questions by genre
• Part III: Nonfiction book club questions by genre 

This is an extensive list of book club questions, so pick and choose the ones that suit your book and your group best. You can also modify them or add your own questions as you see fit. The important thing is to have fun and enjoy the book and the conversation.

Additional resources:

• If you’re looking for book club questions for a specific book, the best place to start is Bookclubs'  Book Club Discussion Guide center , which has tailored guides for hundreds of titles.    
• Feeling overwhelmed by all the questions in this post? We’ve highlighted our  top 12 favorite questions for any book .   
• Want help with more than just discussion questions?  Bookclubs has you covered with free tools to manage club membership, schedule meetings, choose books, and more.  With Bookclubs’  app  or website, you can poll members about meeting times or book choices, get automated calendar invites and meeting reminders, and track what your club has read, is currently reading, or wants to read next.  Get your club set up on Bookclubs today !

Table of Contents

Part I: Book club questions for any book

General book club questions

• Questions about the author
• Questions about the writing style
• Questions about the book’s themes

Part II: Fiction book club questions

• General fiction
• Thriller and Horror
• Historical Fiction
• Science Fiction

Part III: Nonfiction book club questions

• General Nonfiction
• Self-help / Personal Development

Bonus Content:

• Printable book club questions PDF
• Discussion Guide Center (tailored book club questions for hundreds of books)
• Discussion questions specific to banned books
• Tips for running any book club discussion
• How to run an online book club discussion

Ready to dive into some amazing book club discussions? Let’s get started with our ultimate book club question guide!

Book club questions for any book

• Would you recommend this book to someone?  Why or why not (or with what caveats)?
• What kind of reader would most enjoy this book? 
• How much did you know about this book before picking it up? What surprised you the most about the book?
• How thought-provoking did you find the book?  Did the book change your opinion about anything, or did you learn something new from it? If so, what? 
• How did the book make you feel? Did it evoke any emotions? Make you laugh, cry, or cringe?
• How, if at all, did this book relate to your own life?  Did it evoke any memories or create any connections for you?
• Did you highlight or bookmark any passages from the book? Did you have a favorite quote or quotes? If so, share which and why?
• What were some of your favorite scenes from the book? Why did they stand out to you?
• What was the most challenging or difficult part of the book for you to read or understand? How did you overcome it?
• How would you adapt this book into a movie? Who would you cast in the leading roles?
• If there was one thing about the book you could have improved, what would it be?
• Rate this book on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.  Why did you give the book the rating you did?  Did any part of this book club discussion change your rating from what it would have been directly after finishing the book? 

General book club questions – Author

• Who is the author and what is their background or experience in relation to the book?
• Why do you think the author wrote this book and what was their purpose or goal?
• How much do you think the author’s personal views or biases influenced the book and how do you feel about that?
• How does this book compare to other books by the same author or in the same genre?
• If you could ask the author one question about this book, what would it be?

General book club questions – Writing style

• Did you find the author’s writing style easy to read or hard to read? How long did it take you to get into the book? 
• How did the author use language, tone, structure, imagery, dialogue, etc. to tell the story and create an effect on the reader?
• Did the author use any literary devices, techniques, or styles to enhance their writing, and to what effect?
• Discuss the author’s use of symbols, metaphors, or imagery to convey their ideas or emotions.
• What did you like or dislike about the author’s writing style and why?
• How did the author’s writing style enhance or detract from the story or the message of the book?
• How would you describe the author’s writing style in a few words?
• Did the author’s style and voice suit the genre and tone of the book?

General book club questions – Themes:

• What were the main themes or messages of the book and how did they relate to the story?
• How did the book make you think or feel about a certain topic or issue?
• What did you learn from the book or what did it teach you about yourself or others?
• How did the book challenge or change your perspective or opinion on something?
• How relevant or relatable are the themes or messages of the book to your own life, or to society today?

Book club discussion questions for fiction

General fiction book club questions.

• Who was your favorite character and why?
• Which character did you find the most complex or intriguing and why?
• How did the main character(s) change or grow throughout the story?
• How did the secondary characters impact or influence the main character(s) or story?
• Which character did you relate to or empathize with the most and why?
• Which character did you dislike or disagree with the most and why?
• Are there any characters you wish you could have given advice to? What would you tell them?
• What do you think happens to the characters after the novel concludes?
• How did the author create conflict and tension in the book? What was the main conflict or problem in the story and how was it resolved?
• How did the author keep you interested or surprised throughout the story?
• What was the most memorable or shocking scene or twist in the story and why?
• What was the most satisfying or disappointing part of the story and why?
• How did you feel about the ending? Was it satisfying or did you want more?

Mystery book club questions

• Were you surprised by who ended up being the person who committed the crime?  If you guessed who did it, what clues did you notice that made you suspect them?  If you were surprised, who did you think it was going to be instead?  What was the biggest red herring that threw you off track?
• How did the author introduce the main mystery or crime in the book? Did it grab your attention and make you curious right from the beginning?
• How did the author create suspense and intrigue throughout the book? What techniques did they use to keep you engaged and guessing?
• Did you find that the clues and evidence presented in the book made sense and fit together? If not, what stuck out for you?
• How did the author develop the main character(s), especially the detective or sleuth? Did you like them or find them interesting? Did they have any quirks or habits that made them memorable?
• How did the book end? Were you satisfied with the solution or reveal of the mystery or crime? Did it make sense and tie up all the loose ends?
• How did the author explore themes such as justice, truth, deception, or morality?

Thriller and horror book club discussion questions

• How did the setting and atmosphere of the book affect the mood and tone of the story? Did it create a sense of danger, mystery, dread or unease?
• How did the author generate suspense and tension throughout the book? How did they initially draw you in?  What techniques did they use to keep you hooked and on edge?
• Did the author surprise or shock you with twists and turns in the plot? Did you see them coming or were you caught off guard?  
• What did you think of the main character?  Did they make any decisions that you didn’t agree with in response to the conflict of the novel?
• Most thriller or horror stories have a villain.  How did the author portray them?  Did you understand their motives or methods? Did they have any redeeming qualities or human emotions?
• How did the author use different perspectives or narrators to tell the story? Did it add to the complexity or confusion of the plot? Did it reveal any secrets or clues that you missed before?
• How did the author balance the action and/or violence with the psychological and emotional aspects of the story? 
• How did the author explore themes such as justice, morality, revenge, loyalty, or survival?
• If there was a supernatural element to the story, what was its purpose?  Was it merely to advance to the plot or was it a metaphor for something else?
• Were you satisfied with the book’s outcome or did you have any questions or doubts left unanswered?

Historical fiction book club questions

• How did the author blend historical facts and fiction in this book? Did you find the book accurate and authentic?
• How did the author portray the historical setting and period of this book? Did you learn anything new or interesting about the time and place of the story?
• Did the author use any historical sources or references in this book? Did you find them helpful and credible?
• Did this book challenge or change your perspective on any historical events or figures? Did it make you want to learn more about them?
• How did this book relate to your own life experiences or interests in the present day? 
• If you could travel back in time to the historical setting and period of this book, what would you do or see?

Romance book club questions

• Was the romance believable to you? Why or why not?
• How did you feel about the main couple’s chemistry and compatibility? Did you root for them or not?
• What did you think of the main conflict or obstacle that kept the couple apart? Was it realistic or contrived?
• How did the setting and time period of the novel affect the romance? Did it add to the atmosphere or create challenges for the characters?
• How did the author balance the romance with other elements such as humor, suspense, drama, or social commentary?
• How did the secondary characters contribute to the story and the romance? Did you have a favorite or least favorite side character?
• What do you think happens to the main couple after the novel ends?
• How did the novel explore themes such as love, trust, communication, family, identity, or sexuality?
• How did you like the level of heat in the novel?

Fantasy book club questions

• How did the author create the fantasy world in the book? Did they provide any maps, glossaries, or appendices to help you understand it?
• Did the main characters have any special abilities or powers that made them unique or powerful?  If so, are these powers or abilities that you’d like to have?  Why or why not?  What would you do with these abilities?
• How did the author present the magic system in the book? Did they do a good job of explaining how it works and what its rules and limitations are? Did it make sense and fit with the story?
• How did the author portray any other races or creatures in the book? If so, what did you think of their culture or history? 
• How did the author use the setting and atmosphere of the book to enhance the fantasy and mood of the story? 
• How did the author explore themes such as heroism, destiny, loyalty, or morality?

Sci-fi book club questions

• How did the author create the science fiction world or scenario in the book? 
• Did the author use any scientific or technological concepts or theories to support their imagination?
• Did you find the world or scenario they created plausible?  Why or why not?  
• Contrast the science fiction world with our actual world.  Would you want to live in the world the author built?  
• What does the world of the book say about our actual world, if anything? Is it optimistic about a potential future or cautionary?
• How do the book’s characters react to the science fiction world or scenario they experience? How does it compare to how you would react if placed in this situation or world?
• Did the main characters have any special skills or abilities that made them fit or stand out in the science fiction world or scenario?

Book club discussion questions for non-fiction

General non-fiction book club questions.

• How would you describe the book in one sentence? What is the main point or purpose of the book?
• What are some of the questions or criticisms you have about the book? How would you challenge or debate the author’s claims or arguments?
• How did the book change your opinion or perspective on the topic? Did it confirm or contradict any of your assumptions or expectations?
• What was the most memorable or impactful story, anecdote, or example in the book? Why did it stand out to you?
• What was the most surprising or shocking thing you learned from the book? How did it make you feel?
• How did the author engage and persuade you as a reader in the book? 
• How did the author’s choice of how to frame and organize the book impact its effectiveness for you?
• How did the author address any counter arguments or criticisms in the book? Did they acknowledge any limitations, gaps, or biases in their research or writing?  Did you find their arguments convincing?
• What are some of the ethical, moral, or social implications of the book? How does it challenge or support your values or beliefs?
• Did the book inspire you to take action, change your behavior, or think differently about something?
• What are some of the limitations or biases of the book? How does it reflect the author’s background, perspective, or agenda?

Memoir book club questions

• Did the author use a chronological, thematic, or episodic structure to tell their life story in the book, and how did this choice enhance their narrative?
• How did the author develop their voice and personality in the book? Did you like them or find them interesting? Did they have any humor, honesty, or insight that made them memorable or relatable?
• How did the author create interest and engagement in the book? What were the main events or turning points that shaped their life story? How did they capture your attention and curiosity?
• Did the author surprise you with any revelations or discoveries in the book? Did you learn anything new or unexpected about them or their life experiences?
• How did the author portray the other people in their life in the book? What was their influence or impact on the author’s life choices or outcomes?
• How did the author explore topics such as identity, family, relationships, career, or spirituality?
• How did the book end? Were you satisfied with the conclusion or reflection of the author’s life journey? 
• How did the author’s story make you reflect on your own life and experiences?
• Why do you think the author wanted to tell their story? What do you think is the main thing they wanted you to come away from reading the book with?  
• Did you find the author to be a reliable narrator of their own history? Why or why not?

Biography book club questions

• How did the author research and write the biography of the subject? Did they use any sources, interviews, or documents to support their facts and claims?  Did you trust that they are an authoritative source on the subject?
• How did the author portray the subject’s personality and character in the book? Did you like them or find them interesting? Did they have any strengths, weaknesses, or quirks that made them unique or influential?
• How did the author present the main achievements or contributions of the subject in the book? What made them noteworthy as the subject of a book? Did they make a lasting impact or legacy in their field or society?
• How did the author create interest and engagement in the book? What were the main events or challenges that shaped the subject’s life story? How did they capture your attention and curiosity?
• How much did you know about the subject of the book before reading?  Did you learn anything new or surprising about them?
• How did the author use the setting and context of the book to enhance the subject’s life story and perspective? Did the author succeed in creating a sense of time, place, or culture?
• How did the book end? Were you satisfied with the summary or evaluation of the subject’s life journey? Did it inspire you or challenge you in any way?

Self-help / personal development book club questions

• What was the main message or lesson of this book? Did you find it inspiring and motivating?
• How did this book relate to your own life experiences or interests? Did it inspire you to take any action or make any changes in your life?
• How do you plan to implement what you learned from this book in your daily life? What are some specific steps or strategies that you will use?
• What was the most useful or valuable advice or tip that you learned from this book? 
• How credible and reliable do you think this book is as a source of guidance and support on its topic or issue? What sources or references did the author cite that add to its credibility? 
• What questions do you still have after reading this book? What would you like to learn more about?
• What piece of advice from this book do you think will be most difficult for you to apply? Why? 
• Was there any guidance or advice in this book that you disagreed with?

Book club questions PDF

Looking for printable book club discussion questions to bring with you to book club?  To download a free, printable, PDF version of this ultimate list of 124 book club questions, click here .  

Book club questions for specific books

Bookclubs' Book Club Discussion Guide center  has reading guides for hundreds of titles.  Check back often as we add new discussion guides every week.  If we don’t have a discussion guide for your upcoming book yet, request it to get notified when one is added, and to help us prioritize which guides to create!

Looking for more on how to run a book club discussion?

Coming prepared with good discussion questions is only the first step to a great book club conversation.  Bookclubs also has all the club organizing tools you’ll need to keep your book club running smoothly. 

• Automated Meeting Scheduling & Reminders: The meeting syncs with your calendar and all members receive meeting reminders so whether you’re meeting virtually or in-person, you’re keeping book club on the calendar!
• Interactive Polls: Avoid those lengthy email chains with our interactive polls for book selection, choosing your next meeting time, and more.
• Message Boards & 1:1 Direct Messages: Share your latest book banter with direct messaging features and club message boards.
• Digital Shelving: Keep track of what your club (or you) has read and wants to read next. See in an instant what your club is reading this month, view your past reads in one place, and recommend books to each other – so you always have options for what to read next!
• Grow Your Club: Looking to connect with readers outside your personal circle? Open your club to the public and find new members in your hometown or across the globe.

Say hello to a better book club experience today and  create your club on Bookclubs .

Create your profile, start and join a book club, track your reading, and more.

Zoe E. (Bookclubs)

Jun 27, 2024 - 1 month

Hi Tiffyni, we unfortunately aren't able to create a discussion guide for every book, so it really depends! We prioritize writing guides for the books we get the highest number of requests for

Tiffyni Pate

May 02, 2024 - 2 months

How long does it take for a discussion guide to be created once requested?

Cristina Felix

Feb 05, 2024 - 5 months

Where do we ask oddly specific yet vague questions like “What’s a good fantasy romance where the main character falls in love with a side character instead of the obvious prince”?

Sep 26, 2023 - 1 year

Hi Valerie, for specific books, visit www.bookclubs.com/discussion-guides. We have questions for hundreds of the most popular book club books.

Valerie Giglio

Aug 19, 2023 - 1 year

Do you have specific questions for a specific book?

Looking to publish? Meet your dream editor, designer and marketer on Reedsy.

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Blog • Book Marketing

Last updated on Feb 07, 2023

How to Get Book Reviews in 5 Steps (2024 Update)

Imagine the day of your book launch. You’re sitting in front of your computer, blissfully imagining all the five-star book reviews that will soon be yours. Yet the days pass... and the reviews don't come.

Needless to say, you'll want people to buy and read your book ASAP so they can leave you some good reviews. But you may see the Catch-22 here: in order to make your first sales, you’ll need to display positive book reviews. So how do you get the chicken before you’ve got the egg (or vice versa)?

Enter book bloggers , who are your new best friends! For this post, we asked our top Reedsy publicists to share their best tips on how to get book reviews from book bloggers — and we've condensed their advice into these five essential steps, plus a few bonus tips at the end.

You can also check out this Reedsy Live on how to get your first book reviews, with advice from author and book marketer Debbie Drum.

Those who prefer their tips in written form, let's dive right in with the very first step of the review acquisition process!

1. Identify your audience

A quick preliminary note: you want to start the review-gathering as early as possible. If you can, plan your book review campaign 4-6 months in advance of your publication date. Because if you want your reviews to be in place by then, you’ll need to give people time to actually write them!

Now, using the "5 W’s of Storytelling," let's talk about the first thing you should be asking yourself: who? Who will be reading your book, and who is best positioned to promote it to that audience? The following tips will help you answer these questions.

Build a questionnaire

Here are a few more specific queries to help you clarify your "who":

• Who reads in my genre?
• What magazines, websites, forums, or blogs do they frequent?
• Where might they find reviews of my book that will entice them to buy it?

Indeed, publicist Jessica Glenn recommends building a full-length questionnaire to identify your audience and where you might find them on the Web (or in real life!).

“Most, if not all, publicists and publishers send authors a very long questionnaire to fill out when they start their marketing plan ,” she says. “That's so we can dig into any useful piece of bio, community, or regional info to figure out who and why people will be interested in your book.”

Your questionnaire will direct you to your target audience and help you create a  proto-persona.  This is the "ideal reader" of your book, so to speak — a perfect blend of the traits you'd expect them to have. (For example, if you've written a YA paranormal romance novel, your proto-persona might be a 14-year-old girl who's obsessed with Twilight .) And whoever they are, you'll keep them in mind every time you make a marketing decision.

Think about comp titles

Another great way to get a handle on your target audience is to figure out your comparative titles — books that are a) similar to yours and b) share the same general readership. When pitching to book reviewers, these are the titles you'll use to sell your own  book . For instance, "My book is  Normal People meets The Incendiaries ."

According to Jessica, you should have at least 15 potential comp titles for your book, ideally a mix of bestsellers and well-reviewed indie titles. “Many first-time authors balk at this," says Jessica, "as they believe there is no true comp for their book — but dig deep and you'll find them!”

Comp titles are critical because they act as a compass, pointing you towards a ready-made audience that enjoys works in the same mold as yours. This is a huge help in determining your target readers, as well as which reviewers will cater to them. Speaking of which...

2. Find relevant book blogs

Now that you’ve got a strong sense of your audience, you're ready to find blogs that will provide the best exposure to that audience. We recommend starting with our directory of 200+ book review blogs , but feel free to do your own research as well!

As you dig into book review blogs, check on these two things first:

• Is the site active? Has the blogger published a post within the last month or so?
• Are they currently accepting queries? If they're closed at the moment, it could be months before your book gets a review — if at all.

And if you want to confirm your book marketing strategy when it comes to book review blogs, we recommend first taking this quick quiz below!

Which book review site is right for you?

Find out here! Takes one minute.

Once you've confirmed that a book review blog is both active and open to queries, think about whether it's right for your  book. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Genre . Don't waste your time on blogs that don't review books in your genre. "Be very mindful of a publication’s particular audience and target market when pitching for review. If their readership is science-fiction, do not pitch a commercial crime novel!” says publicist Hannah Cooper .
• Traffic . High-traffic book blogs might seem like your highest priorities, but this isn’t necessarily true. “Don't shy away from the smaller blogs,” says publicist Beverly Bambury . “They can sometimes foster a real sense of community and starting off small is just fine."
• Posting frequency.  Another consideration is how often the blogger in question actually publishes reviews. Too often, and your book will get lost in the shuffle; too seldom, and they're likely to lose readers. Try to strike a balance with about 1-2 reviews per week — no decent reviewer can turn them out faster than that, anyway!

Track down your comp titles' reviewers

Remember those comp titles you came up with earlier? You can use them not only to pitch your book, but also to find potential reviewers , as they will correspond perfectly with your genre and target audience.

“Once you have your 15-or-so comps, you can research where each book has been reviewed,” says Jessica. “With luck, you will find at least a couple of book reviews per title, which will give you many more outlets to investigate further.”

Now, as an author, you might be wondering: “How can I begin to find all the places where a given book was reviewed?” Don’t forget the power of Google! Try searching the following terms to find reviews for a given title:

• [Title] + book review
• [Title] + review
• [Title] + Q&A

And here's one last tip to give you a boost — sign up for a "Mention" account and/or set up Google alerts to get a notification every time these titles appear online.

Once you’re armed with a bundle of suitable book review blogs, you've arrived at the third (and perhaps most crucial) step in this process. This is, of course, creating the pitches you'll send to reviewers.

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3. Write pitches for them

Pitching a reviewer is pretty straightforward. All you have to do is a) keep it short, and and b) personalize it as much as possible. However, before we get to our publicists’ actionable tips on pitching, there’s one more thing that you absolutely HAVE to do. And that thing is...

Read the review policy!

Before you pitch any blog, make sure you read the blogger’s review policy. Some blogs will have a form to fill out; others might ask you to email them directly. Still others might not welcome any queries from self-published authors . Whatever they say, make sure that you follow it to a T.

“There are two main benefits to reading and following the review policies closely,” says Beverly. “First, you show the reviewer that you respect and appreciate them when you follow their instructions. This is important when asking someone to do you a favor.

"Second, you may find that even if the site is closed for review queries, it's open to publicity queries — where you might be able to place an excerpt or do a Q&A or occasional blog post. You'll never know if you don't take the time to read the review policy first.”

More tips for pitching reviewers

Now that you’re clear on what the blogger wants, you can start pitching them with confidence. Here are three more key tips for pitching book reviewers:

1. Never send out bulk pitches. "When you pitch each outlet individually, specifically write that you read their positive book review of your comp and what that comp title was,” says Jessica Glenn. Or if you didn't find them through a comp title, mention other  aspects of their blog and why you think they would be great to review your book!

2. Be concise and direct. “Include your title, publisher, date of release, and genre in the first paragraph,” notes Beverly Bambury. “Then you might want to include the cover copy or a brief description of the book. Finally, be direct and ask for what you want. If you want a review, ask for it! If you want an excerpt placed, ask for that.”

3. Appeal to their commercial side. “All reviewers want the opportunity to discover the next 'big thing’ — particularly with fiction — so make them feel as though they have the opportunity to get the word out first," says Hannah Cooper. Indeed, if you can convince a reviewer that you are doing them  a favor, you're practically guaranteed to get a review.

Basically, try to get reviewers to think, “Oh, if I enjoyed [comp title], I’ll enjoy this person's book too,” or “They've done the research to know that I’m a good fit for their book.” If you can do that, you’re already much closer than everyone else to obtaining high-quality book reviews !

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4. Send out your book

This is the step before the moment of truth (the review itself), so it's extremely important to get everything right. To ensure you're complying with each reviewer's guidelines, review their policy again before you send them your book. Some bloggers might prefer digital copies of manuscripts, while others might want a physical ARC — be prepared to accommodate.

Also, as you begin sending your book to various outlets, you should track your progress in a spreadsheet. Record which blogs you’ve submitted to so far, which blogs have responded, and which blogs you plan to submit to, so you don't accidentally double-submit or skip over anyone.

Formatting your book

Other than double-checking the review policy, the most important thing to do here is to format your book in a professional manner . After all, you want the presentation of your content to match the quality! Even though it shouldn't technically matter, reviewers will definitely judge your book by how it looks, inside and out.

The good news for self-formatters that you probably won't need to send physical proofs, and ebooks are much easier to format than hard copies. Digital copies also cost next-to-nothing to produce, so you can easily send multiple copies of your book out to different reviewers. You may want to check out apps like Instafreebie and Bookfunnel , which make it easy to generate individual ARC download links that you can send to the reviewers.

Pro tip : If you’re searching for a good book production tool, the Reedsy Book Editor can format and convert your manuscript into professional EPUB and print-ready files in a matter of seconds!

5. Follow up after a week

A week or more has passed since you queried a book blog, and so far… crickets. What do you do now? Why, follow up,  of course!

When it comes to this stage, keep calm and follow Hannah Hargrave’s advice: “Don't bother reviewers for an answer daily. I will usually chase again after a week has passed.

"If you receive a decline response, or no one responds to your third chase-up, assume this means they are not interested. Any further follow-ups, or aggressive requests as to why your work's not being reviewed, will not be viewed kindly. Above all, be polite and friendly at all times.”

That said, someone rejecting your book for review is a worst-case scenario. Best-case scenario, the blogger responds favorably and you’ve bagged yourself a review!

What comes next, you ask?

The reviewer will post their review of your book on their blog — and on Amazon, Goodreads, and any other platforms that they’ll name in their review policy. This is yet another reason why it's vital to read that policy carefully, so you know exactly where  the review will be seen.

If all goes well, the reviewer will publish a positive review that you can use to further promote your book. Maybe you'll even get a decent pull-quote for your book description ! Not to mention that if you ever write a sequel, you can almost certainly count on them for a follow-up review.

Pro-tip: Want to write a book description that sells? Download this free book description template to get a headstart. 

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But what if you don't get any bites from book bloggers, or — horror of horrors — one of them gives you a negative review? Fortunately, the next two sections should help you deal with each of these possible dilemmas.

Bonus ways to get book reviews

Though book bloggers are the most reliable and professional source of reviews for independent authors, you may want to try other avenues to maximize your chances! Here are three more ways to get book reviews  for your work, so you can bolster your Amazon profile and start making some serious sales.

1. Tell your followers about your book

Though Amazon prohibits reviews from close friends and family , you're free to tell your random social media followers about your book and hope they leave good reviews. It obviously helps if you have a large following on Twitter or Instagram, even more so if some of those followers are fellow authors who appreciate the significance of reviews.

That said, NEVER offer "review swaps" or any kind of promotional enticement for customers to leave reviews, as this would also be against Amazon's terms. Simply let your followers know you've got a book out and that you'd love for them to read it; the rest is in their hands. However, when it comes to reviews, any amount of awareness is better than none.

2. Submit to Reedsy Discovery

Finally, for a professional review option that's a bit less time-and-effort-consuming on your part, you can submit your book right here on Reedsy Discovery! The platform allows authors to share their books with readers who are right up their alley, plus get the chance to be reviewed by one of our Discovery writers. If they leave a good review, you'll be featured in our newsletter, which goes out to thousands of subscribers every week.

Sounds pretty sweet, right? And it only takes a few minutes to submit .

Is your book ready for Discovery?

Take our quiz to find out! Takes only 1 minute.

How to deal with negative reviews

Once your work is out there in the world, you can’t control other people’s reactions to it. “Remember, by submitting your book for review, you're accepting that some people might not enjoy it,” says Hannah Hargrave. “It can be very tough after you’ve spent months or years crafting your novel, only for some reviewer to tear it apart. But you need to be prepared."

In that vein, here are some final tips on how to deal with bad reviews:

1. Have someone else read them first . This might be your agent, your friend, or your mom — anyone you trust to pre-screen your reviews. They can inform you whether each negative review is a worthwhile (if humbling) read, or just too nasty to stomach.

2. Ignore unreasonably hateful reviews . Easier said than done, yes, but really try to tune out these people! For example, if they're clearly not your target audience, but insist on pretending like they are. Or people who pick apart your sentences word-by-word, just for the "fun" of it. There's no sense in agonizing over readers who are determined to hate you, so block them on every platform and refuse to read anything else they write.

3. Address valid criticisms . You're only human, and your book won't be perfect. If someone points this out in a constructive way , acknowledge it and do what you can to fix it. This may be as simple as editing a misleading blurb, or as complex as restructuring your entire series. But if you're the author we know you are, you'll be up to the task.

Every author's book is different, but the process for getting book reviews is reassuringly universal. To recap: identify your audience, find relevant blogs, pitch them, send out your book, and don't forget to follow up! On top of that, feel free to try alternative strategies, and remember not to take the bad reviews too personally.

Yes, marketing a book may be madness, but the process of getting reviews lends method to that madness. So go forth and get your reviews — you deserve them! 🙌

Special thanks to book publicists Jessica Glenn , Hannah Hargrave , Hannah Cooper , and Beverly Bambury for their input and suggestions throughout this article. If you have any more questions about how to get book reviews, let us know in the comments!

2 responses

Elena Smith says:

25/09/2018 – 22:33

Excellent Write up. I have thoroughly gone through the article and according to my personal observations you have done a great job writing this Article.Being associated with writing profession, I must mention that AcademicWritingPro are quite helpful nowadays.Furthermore, quality is also an important aspect.

Team Golfwell says:

11/12/2018 – 05:38

We do free book reviews if your book interests us. We are a group of retired people in New Zealand who play golf, read books, write books, and do free book reviews if we like your book. We write books too, so we like to see what other authors are currently doing and it is amazing to see what writers are creating. We try to post our reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, Barnes & Noble and our social media. See our book review page for more info > > https://www.teamgolfwell.com/free-book-reviews.html #bookreviews #kindlebookreviews #amazonbookreviews #indiebookreviews https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4ad92dde2f70456000bf5c44af3489ee638dae511be91f7b8cb1545acb388cdb.jpg

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Independent Book Review

A Celebration of Indie Press and Self-Published Books

Book Review: The Destiny Book

THE DESTINY BOOK by Helena Lind is a spiritual book that inspires thoughtful reflection about destiny’s role in humanity’s search for meaning. Reviewed by Susan Morris.

The Destiny Book

by Helena Lind

Genre: Nonfiction / Spirituality

ISBN: 9781945884818

Print Length: 310 pages

Reviewed by Susan Morris

A spiritual book that inspires thoughtful reflection about destiny’s role in humanity’s search for meaning

In the preface to her book, The Destiny Book: Rediscovering the Mother of Spirituality , Helena Lind presents a profound conclusion: “Whether we are aware of it or not or believe in anything, we all share in our collective human Destiny.” But what is this destiny? The exploration begins with chapter 1.

Much of this book focuses on providing evidence on how humanity seeks purpose and understanding of the hard-to-explain or even unexplainable parts of life, whether from organized religion, belief in a fatalistic force like fate or destiny or some other less well-recognized form of individual spirituality.

“Numbers do matter. Worldwide, many, many millions believe in Destiny, also referring to it as fate.”

This is an extensive study on the concept of destiny that includes just about every topic related to it that you can ask for. If you’re looking for a multi-faceted, intricate conversation on destiny, this book will be a valuable resource. Religions, mythologies, philosophies, free will, determinism, serendipity—you name it, this book’s got it. And most from a refreshing perspective. 

This book is a particularly good fit for those already entrenched in the fatalistic concepts; some of the conversations can be quite lofty. At times, I longed for more detailed context of the argument rather than the supporting argument in its favor.

To me, destiny has frequently meant fate, luck, and the unfortunate (or super fortunate) ways of the world; in essence, it’s an explanation for the hard-to-explain or even unexplainable parts of life; or stated another way, it’s one possible explanation for things outside of human control. So we are forced to ask, “How is destiny the Mother of Spirituality?”

This is not an easy book, even for those who frequently read philosophical and spiritual texts. Some of the brightest takeaway moments bring clarity to some complicated topics.

“ [Destiny] is a faith-independent force embedded in humanity’s requirement for a higher source of attention, acceptance, balance, justice, and order. It is a legitimate spiritual alternative, and it can delight with a liberating perspective that continues to touch the lives of millions of people throughout the world.”

But what is the difference between fate and destiny? “Destiny gives the advantage of choosing which route to take, while fate is more a predetermined, unalterable course, sometimes seen as a one-way street. Fate is predominantly irrevocably woven to happen, no matter what.”

By the end, I was still asking, How is destiny the “Mother Spirituality,” and in what way do we share a “collective human destiny?” More importantly, how does a person apply this to our life? This is an in-depth introduction to these concepts, but some answers are best fit for the next book.

Will you leave with questions? Sure! But in some ways, you are supposed to. Lind is a captivating voice with apparent intellect and care for her subject. It’d be impossible to leave this book without a deeper interest on destiny’s role as a spiritual practice.

Thank you for reading Susan Morris’s book review of The Destiny Book by Helena Lind! If you liked what you read, please spend some more time with us at the links below.

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• book-romance

Book Review: Icon and Inferno

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Genre: Romance

*3.5 stars rounded up

I want to give a moment of appreciation for the cover, it’s actually so beautiful 💖. Though, in general, I was so excited for the second book of stars and smoke because that ending had me torn. I’m happy to say this ending left me satisfied. Also, Marie really woke up and chose emotional damage with this book 😭

Continue reading for more details.

Spies meet romance meet popstars in this thrilling follow up to Stars and Smoke by bestselling author Marie Lu.

A year has passed since superstar Winter and secret agent Sydney Cossette went undercover - on a dangerous mission to bring down the baddest man in London.

Winter hasn't stopped thinking about Sydney since, and she's been trying not to think about him

Family secrets and nasty newspapers has Winter desperate to re-enter the secret world. And it's not long before he gets his chance.

Sydney is back, and this time the mission goes right to the heart of the United States of America. A rescue gone wrong, an assassination attempt - and the return of an old flame - puts Winter right back into the action . . . and into a country on the brink of chaos.

And when a murder accusation has Sydney on the run, suddenly it's not just a life at stake, but all-out war.

Sydney and Winter’s relationship was kind of left hanging at the end of the first book. This book gives us more of them and definitely starts to progress their relationship. They both develop together as their relationship becomes more complex. Though, this relationship is a difficult one to manage. One is an international superstar while the other is a secret agent. One is watched by millions around the world while the other has to live in the shadows and throws herself into dangerous situations. Still, I loved seeing them work together, watching them deal with their lingering feelings and dance around each other.

“‘I don’t love you,’ he murmured. ‘I don’t love you, too’ she whispered back.”

I did love the tension in book one wayy more than the tension in this one. This book, to me, felt more focused on the mission and all the action that went down than Sydney and Winter. This felt like an action/espionage movie and was super fast paced. Near the ending, things started to slow down as everything was being wrapped up. Though most of the book literally seemed to fly by! 

The inclusion of Tems as a character was a good add on because he definitely shook things up in the book. He was a well-developed and thought out character. The way his past led up to his actions in the present made complete sense and made the book much more interesting.

Marie really is the queen of tearing-our-hearts-out. I can’t believe she really did…THAT (iykyk). I was shocked and, honestly, felt so bad for multiple people because of that incident. That might or might not have been the craziest, most memorable moment of the book. She included other plot twists and events that kept the story interesting and gripping.

“Maybe love was not knowing and going ahead anyway.”

I do wish throughout the story we could’ve focused more on Sydney and Winter and focus more on seeing them talk more consistently. They did have good conversations once in a while in the book (winter’s confession was lovely 💖) and I liked how they worked things out in the end. I don’t think a book three is necessarily needed, but an epilogue or a novella would’ve been nice just to see how they continue with their relationship and meet each other and more cute scenes of them together. 

“But perhaps there was beauty in not knowing. Maybe that was its own form of love, the faith of coming together even when you couldn’t see the path in front of you, when you had no idea whether joy or heartbreak would await you further down the road of life, when you had nothing but a guiding light in the distance to yearn for.”

Recommended for Lovers Of:

Stars and Smoke

fast-paced books

action-packed books

espionage/spying

celeb & spy relationship 

clean romance

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