Stage 11: Validate
Awards, Reviews & Public Recognition
Validation helps build your credibility and opens new opportunities. Whether you're applying for a grant, pitching the media, or seeking new readers, third-party recognition gives your work professional weight. Below are tools and organizations that help writers submit their work for awards, get editorial reviews, and gain acknowledgment in the literary community.
Book Awards & Competitions
Entering book awards can give you credibility, media coverage, and sometimes cash prizes. Be sure to choose reputable awards and carefully read eligibility requirements.
AllAuthor Book Awards
Offers author contests and reader-driven voting to spotlight indie authors.
https://allauthor.com/affiliate/
Eric Hoffer Book Award
Recognizes excellence in small, academic, and self-published books across genres.
https://www.hofferaward.com
Foreword INDIES
Respected award for indie and self-published books judged by Foreword Reviews editors.
https://www.forewordreviews.com/awards/
Independent Publisher (IPPY) Awards
One of the largest and longest-running awards for independent authors and small publishers.
https://ippyawards.com
Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Professional indie book award with exposure, review opportunities, and recognition at Book Expo America.
https://indiebookawards.com
Readers’ Favorite Book Awards
Popular among self-published authors. Entry includes an editorial review and chance at category awards.
https://readersfavorite.com/book-reviews.htm
Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards
Well-respected award with prize money, media exposure, and professional feedback.
https://www.writersdigest.com/wd-competitions/self-published-book-awards
Editorial Reviews & Book Recognition
Editorial reviews are different from reader reviews—they come from professionals and can be quoted in press kits, Amazon listings, and book covers.
Kirkus Indie Reviews
Paid editorial review service respected across the publishing industry.
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/indie-reviews/
BlueInk Review
Professional book review service run by credible journalists and industry insiders.
https://www.blueinkreview.com/affiliates/
BookLife Reviews by Publishers Weekly
Author-paid reviews written by PW reviewers, great for indie authors.
https://booklife.com/about-us/booklife-reviews.html
Self-Publishing Review
Offers editorial reviews, author services, and promotional options.
https://www.selfpublishingreview.com/affiliate-program/
Online Book Club
Book reviews and promotions through an engaged reader network.
https://onlinebookclub.org/affiliates/
