The Art of Blurb Hunting: An Author's Guide to Securing Book Endorsements

As a publisher, we get it—seeking blurbs for a new book is a whole rollercoaster of stress and emotions and the sudden recognition that you do indeed have Imposter Syndrome. It’s nerve-wracking but also can be seen as an essential rite of passage for authors about to put their babies out into the world. Blurbs are the golden nuggets that can catapult a book’s visibility, generate buzz, and give potential readers a comforting nudge to make that purchase. In the same stroke, blurbs can also go unread and serve zero purpose. So, while the process can feel like wading through a swamp of uncertainty, we recognize just how much value these endorsements bring to the table.

The Blurb Ecosystem: More Than Just Nice Quotes

Let’s be real—blurbs aren’t just fluff to fill up the back cover. They’re multi-purpose powerhouses. First off, they’re your book’s social proof—endorsements from credible authors are like a VIP pass that screams “Hey, this book is legit!” Secondly, blurbs make decisions easier for readers—quick, digestible recommendations that help them click that “buy” button. And let’s not forget, for debut authors, they’re crucial in establishing credibility.

Now, here’s where things get tricky. Not all blurbs are created equal. We’re looking for the kind that come from respected authors who get the book’s vibe and audience—and aren’t going to scribble out bullshit just to get their names on the back of a book. Authenticity is what makes a blurb land with impact.

The Blurb Request Strategy: Timing is Everything

Pro tip: Start early. Like, really early. Ideally, you want to start requesting blurbs before the editing process is even wrapped up. This gives you the flexibility to incorporate feedback and gives blurbers enough time to get their thoughts together. Plus, it’s always better to secure blurbs while the manuscript is still fresh. Think of it like planting seeds—you can grow genuine connections that’ll pay off later in your book’s marketing.

And a pro move? Secure blurbs before you even submit to a publisher. When we get submissions that already have a detailed marketing plan and secured blurbs, it tells us that the author is already working to make the book successful after publication. Seeing blurbs in the query makes us giddy.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Blurb Hunting

Let’s not sugarcoat it—blurb hunting can be a soul-sucking experience, especially for debut authors. For every “yes,” there might be a string of “no’s” or, worse, nothing. But here’s the thing: silence isn’t rejection. Authors are juggling their own workloads, and they might just be too swamped to say “yes” at that moment. So, buckle up and be patient—perseverance is key. Don’t be afraid to follow up a month or so after you’ve sent the initial query.

Tips from the Trenches: Be Smart, Be Gracious

When it comes to securing blurbs, always have a backup plan. Getting one high-profile blurb is great, but don’t put all your eggs in one basket. And regardless of the outcome, always remain gracious. A “no” isn’t personal, and maintaining professional relationships will serve you well in the long run. Plus, once you’re established, don’t forget to pay it forward—help out new authors by offering blurbs for their books (like, for real. Selfishness is ugly).

Ethics of Blurb Hunting: Don’t Be That Person

We don’t tolerate any funny business. Misleading blurbers or pressuring them for endorsements is a no-go. Be transparent about your connections and build genuine relationships with people in the literary world. Trust is key—don’t sacrifice it for a quick win.

What Not to Do: No Pressure, No Drama

Take a deep breath, and remember: never demand blurbs. Don’t come across as entitled or pushy, and definitely don’t guilt-trip anyone into giving a blurb. That’s a quick way to burn bridges. Also, unsolicited manuscripts? Yeah, not a good look. Always be respectful of people’s time and inboxes.

Hold the Phone, Why Shouldn’t I Wait to Use the Edited Galley?

Here’s the deal. What you are looking to secure with an edited, print-ready galley is a REVIEW. Reviews are not blurbs. They do not go on the cover, or, on the inside of the book. Reviews are printed in journals, online, and used on the sales pages across retailers’ websites. If we get an author sending us a “blurb” three days before release asking to put it on the cover, it is going to be a hard fucking no. BUT we are happy to add it to the metadata so it can populate retailer sites. We will definitely add it to the book’s sales page on our website. We will gladly use it in social media posts. But hell no, it isn’t going on/in the book.

Learning the difference between what is a review and what is a blurb can save a writer a lot of time…and sadness.

The Long Game: Building Relationships for the Future

At Unsolicited Press, we see blurb hunting as a long-term investment. It’s not just about slapping a quote on the cover—it’s about building authentic relationships that help grow an author’s career. Every “no” brings you closer to the right yes. Keep in mind, the connections you make today could lead to amazing opportunities tomorrow. If you didn’t get blurbs (or didn’t think of it) until close to publication, then you aren’t doomed. Blurbs don’t make good books. Publishers can still use the reviews to support the book’s success.

Final Thoughts

So yeah, securing blurbs can be a bumpy ride. But, in the end, it’s all about combining strategy, professionalism, and real human connection to make it work. Be patient, be authentic, and remember: each rejection is just a step toward finding the right supporters who’ll help push your book to new heights. It’s tough, but so worth it. And hey, if nothing else, you’ll be much stronger for it.