How to Leave a Review (Even if You Bought Direct!)

First of all—thank you! If you are reading this, it means you spent your valuable time reading my work, and I am incredibly grateful.

As an independent author, reviews are the absolute lifeblood of my business. They don’t just tell other readers what to expect; they also signal to bookstore algorithms that people are enjoying the book, which helps it reach a wider audience.

You don’t need to write a long essay! A simple sentence like “I loved the characters!” or “Couldn’t put it down!” means the world to me.

If you bought the book directly from my website, received a review copy, or just read it somewhere else, you can still leave a review on the major retail sites. Here is a quick guide on how to do it for each platform.

🍎 Apple Books

Apple allows reviews from anyone with an Apple ID, but their system can sometimes be a little finicky if the book isn’t currently sitting in your Apple library.

  • The Quick Fix: If you click the review link and the system won’t let you leave one, just click the “Get Sample” button on the book’s page. This adds the book to your Apple library and instantly unlocks the review button!
  • How to do it:
    1. Click here: [Apple Books Direct Review Link]
    2. If you are on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, this link should automatically pop open the review prompt.

🛍️ Amazon (Available December 26, 2026)

Amazon allows reviews from readers who didn’t buy the book on their store (these will show up as “Unverified Purchase” reviews, which are perfectly fine!).

  • The Rule: Amazon requires that you have spent at least $50 on their website using a valid credit or debit card within the last 12 months to leave a review on any product.
  • How to do it:
    1. Click here: [Amazon Direct Review Link]
    2. The link will take you directly to the review submission page. Just tap the stars and leave your thoughts!

▶️ Google Play

Google Play allows reviews, but similar to Apple, they prefer the book to be registered in your account library before you can rate it.

  • The Quick Fix: If the “Write a review” button is missing or grayed out, simply click the “Free Sample” button at the top of the page. Once the sample is added to your Google library, you will be able to leave a review.
  • How to do it:
    1. Click here: [Google Play Book Link]
    2. Scroll down to the “Ratings and reviews” section.
    3. Click the “Write a review” button and share your thoughts!

🔴 Kobo

Kobo is incredibly friendly to independent authors and readers. You do not need to have purchased the book through their store, nor do you need to download a sample.

  • The Rule: You just need a free Kobo account to log in and leave your review.
  • How to do it:
    1. Click here: [Kobo Book Link]
    2. Scroll down the page past the book’s synopsis.3. Click the “Write your review” button.

Thank you again for your support, and for taking the time to share your thoughts with other readers!