It offers reviewers a hub where they can read manuscripts for free, connect with fellow book lovers, and build their experience as expert readers. Here’s more detail on how Discovery can help you develop a book review portfolio and presence to be proud of.
1. Get to Know What Discovery Does
As mentioned, the platform unites authors, reviewers, and general readers. Being a Discovery reviewer, however, comes with special perks. Reedsy makes it easy to build your portfolio and status on the platform, as well as outside it.
While any member can rate and comment on books, they need to buy them if they want to read them, whereas a reviewer has access to a dashboard listing free ebooks by Discovery authors.
You can pick up any book that appeals to you—the writer gets your support through honest feedback and those precious stars, while you gain a free read, experience, visibility, and one more book in your portfolio.
Get to know as much as you can about the platform’s capabilities. The process and tools indie writers enjoy on Reedsy Discovery is a good area to explore next.
2. Apply to Become a Reviewer
Eager to get started? First, head to Discovery’s sign up page. Fill in your details, including a short bio and an example of a previous review.
The website, blog, and social media profiles you provide don’t need high traffic for you to be approved. A clearly active interest in reviewing is enough. Submit the application and wait for Reedsy’s approval.
Being a reviewer on Discovery is a responsibility as much as a privilege. When you pick a manuscript or an author reaches out to you directly, compassion and professionalism are key. Authors can even tip you if they like your work, so make sure it’s your best.
3. Set Up Your Reviewer Profile
Since authors can submit their manuscripts to you personally, it’s a good idea to make your profile as appealing as possible. There are several features you can adjust, like a photo, headline, bio, and social links.
If you have a Goodreads account, you can also sync your library to Discovery. Rated entries will be added to your portfolio, which will grow with each new review.
You can share these reviews on other platforms too, making this a perfect display of your skills if you ever decide to create an online portfolio using top website builders.
With time, your profile’s reading statistics will change—for example, you can earn badges that reflect your performance, ultimately creating an impressive account.
Put Your Reviewing Cap On
As a reviewer, you’ll have competition on Discovery, so put your best foot forward from the start. Plunge into that pool of books and give your authors constructive feedback. The more active you are, the greater your chances of standing out from the crowd.
Build a nice workflow. Your environment and equipment play an important part in this, so do what you can to minimize distractions. Whether you’re looking at a light, comedic memoir or a dense guide to a complex subject, make sure you’re focused enough while reading to provide interesting insights in your review.
