Are Blurbs History?

Rethinking Endorsements in the Modern Book Market

A bookshop in Athens, Greece

The question of whether authors should seek out blurbs and endorsements for their books has long been a subject of debate in publishing. The Bookseller recently explored this issue, asking whether author quotes still hold the same weight in 2025. At P-Wave Press, we believe the answer is shifting—and that it’s time to reconsider the necessity of blurbs in the modern book market.

Traditionally, a glowing quote from a respected author or commentator was seen as a powerful tool for persuading readers of a book’s worth. Coupled with a strong newspaper review, it could provide a book with the credibility and visibility needed to attract an audience. But times have changed.

For one thing, it’s asking a lot of authors to spend time chasing blurbs—often a stressful process that takes them away from the work that truly matters: writing. An author’s job is to create, while a publisher’s role is to produce, market, and promote the book. We believe that should remain the focus.

Beyond that, the way readers discover and engage with books has evolved dramatically. While traditional reviews and endorsements still carry value, they are no longer the primary drivers of book sales. Instead, many readers turn to Instagram, TikTok, and other social platforms for recommendations, connecting directly with publishers, authors, and fellow book lovers. Bookstagram and BookTok have created a thriving ecosystem where authentic enthusiasm from everyday readers can have more impact than a formal endorsement from an established name.

Meanwhile, online reviews on platforms like Amazon, Apple Books, and Goodreads play a significant role in shaping purchasing decisions. Many readers buy books simply because they are intrigued by the premise, the cover, or a compelling description—without any need for a famous name to vouch for the book’s quality.

At P-Wave Press, we want to focus on letting the books speak for themselves. A strong story, a compelling voice, and the right audience connection matter far more than whether a book carries an endorsement from an industry figure. Readers today value authenticity, and often, the most powerful recommendations come from fellow readers who have genuinely loved a book.

So, to blurb or not to blurb? While endorsements can still have their place, we believe they are no longer essential in the way they once were. Instead, we choose to focus on reaching readers where they are, engaging with the communities that matter, and giving each book the best possible chance to find its audience—without burdening authors with an outdated expectation.

What do you think? Do blurbs still influence your book-buying choices? Let us know on social media using #PublishingTrends and #PWaveReads on X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky—we’d love to hear your thoughts!