Book Reviews: What They Are, Who Writes Them, and Why They Matter

When you finish a book and feel compelled to say something about it, you’re taking part in something bigger than just your own thoughts—you’re contributing to a book review, a written evaluation of a book’s content, style, and impact, often shared publicly to help other readers decide what to read next. Also known as book critique, it’s the quiet backbone of how books find their audience. Whether you leave a one-line rating on Amazon or write a detailed post on Goodreads, you’re part of a system that shapes what gets published, what gets read, and who gets noticed.

But here’s the thing: most people don’t write reviews. Ever wonder why? It’s not because they don’t care—it’s because they don’t know how, or they think their voice doesn’t matter. The truth? A single review can change someone’s reading choice. And for authors, every review—good or bad—is fuel. Amazon book reviews, the most visible form of reader feedback on the world’s largest book platform make up the majority of public opinions, but they’re just one piece. Goodreads ownership, the fact that Amazon bought Goodreads in 2013 and now controls the largest social network for readers means your rating on one site affects visibility on the other. And if you’re thinking about writing reviews for money, you’re not alone—book reviewer, a person who evaluates books for publications, blogs, or publishers, often as a freelance job is a real role, with pay ranging from free advance copies to hundreds per review.

Who actually writes these reviews? Not just critics. It’s moms who read YA novels on their lunch break. Students who analyze classics for class. Retirees who join online book clubs. The people who leave reviews aren’t professionals—they’re readers like you. And that’s what makes them powerful. You don’t need a degree in literature to write a useful review. You just need to be honest. Did the story stick with you? Did the characters feel real? Did it make you think? Those are the questions that matter.

Some reviews get ignored. Others go viral. What’s the difference? It’s not length. It’s clarity. It’s specificity. Saying "I liked it" doesn’t help anyone. Saying "I stayed up until 3 a.m. because I couldn’t put it down, but the ending felt rushed"? That’s gold. That’s the kind of feedback authors and publishers actually read. And platforms like Amazon and Goodreads reward that kind of detail—not with money, but with visibility. The more helpful your review, the more it shows up when others search.

So why does any of this matter to you? Because your voice counts—even if you think it doesn’t. Every review you write helps shape the literary landscape. It tells publishers what readers want. It gives new authors a chance. It helps other readers find their next favorite book. And if you’re thinking about turning your love of reading into something more, you can. There are real opportunities out there—for pay, for exposure, for connection.

Below, you’ll find real answers to real questions: How many people actually leave reviews on Amazon? Can you get paid to review books? Who owns Goodreads, and does it even matter? How do you start if you’ve never written one before? These aren’t theoretical discussions. These are stories from readers, reviewers, and authors who’ve been there. No fluff. No jargon. Just what you need to know to make your next review count.