Question 1

How is real book PR different from a generic press release blast?

Accepted Answer

Generic press release distribution to thousands of outlets has near zero conversion to actual coverage. Real book PR targets specific reviewers, podcasters, and outlets that already cover your genre or topic. A targeted pitch to 30 carefully selected destinations beats a 5,000 outlet automated wire release every time.

Question 2

When should I start the PR campaign before launch?

Accepted Answer

Pitch trade reviewers (Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Foreword, Library Journal) 14 to 16 weeks before launch (they need long lead time and most have submission cutoffs). Pitch consumer outlets, podcasts, and bloggers 6 to 10 weeks out. Email blasts and social run launch week. Nova typically starts the campaign 12 weeks before launch.

Question 3

What kinds of media can you actually book?

Accepted Answer

Genre podcasts, niche YouTube channels, book bloggers, BookTok creators, Goodreads featured lists, trade reviews (Kirkus, PW, Foreword on a paid review basis), local press in the author's city, and industry trade outlets specific to the book's subject area. We do not promise mainstream press for first time authors because that is not how the system works.

Question 4

Can you guarantee specific reviews or coverage?

Accepted Answer

No. No legitimate PR firm can guarantee specific outlets because editorial decisions are independent. We can guarantee outreach effort, response tracking, and follow up. Realistic conversion rates: 20 to 30 percent on podcast pitches in your niche, 8 to 15 percent on review blogs, 1 to 3 percent on consumer media for first time authors.

Question 5

How do trade reviews work and are they worth it?

Accepted Answer

Trade reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Foreword Reviews are paid placements (typically 425 to 575 dollars each) that get reviewed by a real editor and produce a quotable review used in marketing. Worth it for nonfiction, business books, and any author selling to libraries. Less critical for genre fiction where reader reviews on Amazon and Goodreads matter more.

Question 6

What is an ARC and how do you distribute them?

Accepted Answer

An advance reader copy (ARC) is the manuscript or near final book sent to reviewers, bloggers, and influential readers 4 to 8 weeks before launch in exchange for an honest review on launch day. Distribution platforms include NetGalley, BookSirens, BookFunnel, plus direct outreach to specific reviewers we already have relationships with.

Question 7

Do you handle BookBub Featured Deals?

Accepted Answer

Yes when the book qualifies. BookBub Featured Deals are competitive (acceptance rate 10 to 20 percent), require an editorial review, and deliver thousands of sales overnight when accepted. We help craft the submission, write the deal copy, and time the deal to maximize sales rank and review momentum.

Question 8

How long does a typical PR campaign run?

Accepted Answer

Standard campaigns run 12 to 14 weeks total: 8 weeks of pre launch buildup, launch week, and 3 to 4 weeks of post launch follow up. Premium campaigns run 16 to 20 weeks with extended post launch outreach to podcasts that book 60 days out and to seasonal review cycles.

Book PR & Publicity Services