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ficbot · 03-01-2011, 12:42 PM

I got a review request the other day from an author who does not offer a sample, and I am curious about why not. To me, the sample is the equivalent of picking up a book from the shelf in the store and browsing it. What would be the problem in allowing this?

She offered to send me a coupon code so I could download the whole thing, or to send me a PDF of the first few chapters. But I have to admit, I am tempted to just pass because even though this would let me check the book out for myself, I am not sure I feel comfortable reviewing it and recommending it and then having to send people in there blind, to take a leap on it without even getting a peek at the first few pages.

It seems to me like this is a counterintuitive strategy for attracting readers, and it just baffles me. Why erect a barrier that doesn't need to be erected? What possible harm could it do to allow the readers a sample before they buy? Why would anyone be opposed to this?

I am waiting to hear back from the author in question, but I am curious. Are there any authors here who don't offer a sample? Why not?

03-01-2011, 12:42 PM	#1
ficbot Wizard Posts: 2,409 Karma: 4132096 Join Date: Sep 2008 Device: Kindle Paperwhite/iOS Kindle App	Why do some authors not offer a sample? I got a review request the other day from an author who does not offer a sample, and I am curious about why not. To me, the sample is the equivalent of picking up a book from the shelf in the store and browsing it. What would be the problem in allowing this? She offered to send me a coupon code so I could download the whole thing, or to send me a PDF of the first few chapters. But I have to admit, I am tempted to just pass because even though this would let me check the book out for myself, I am not sure I feel comfortable reviewing it and recommending it and then having to send people in there blind, to take a leap on it without even getting a peek at the first few pages. It seems to me like this is a counterintuitive strategy for attracting readers, and it just baffles me. Why erect a barrier that doesn't need to be erected? What possible harm could it do to allow the readers a sample before they buy? Why would anyone be opposed to this? I am waiting to hear back from the author in question, but I am curious. Are there any authors here who don't offer a sample? Why not?