Using Reader Reviews

[Michael]

In advertising my first novel, I would like to start using some of the reviews that readers have been leaving. We've all picked up the book that has something like the following on the back cover: "Praise for The Orthogonal Galaxy:" followed by remarks readers have made.

As a self-published author, can I use snippets of reviews from distributor sites, or should I reach out to readers first to get their permission? I'm concerned about doing that, because of this thread.

[Kathy]

You should contact readers and ask their permission.

[Sharon]

Kathy wrote: "You should contact readers and ask their permission."

I second this.

[J.M.]

I asked Amazon the same question. According to them you do not repeat do not need permission to quote reviews either in part or wholly.
J.M. Garlock
"The Centurion Chronicles"
"Knight Hunter: Vampires"

[Paganalexandria]

I have to say as a reader, when I see review quotes in a blurb from unknown sources, it's an automatic skip for me. It's one thing when you're quoting a PW or other big time professional review source. But as sketchy as a lot Amazon reviews can be, it doesn't inspire confidence from me to see them used as advertising. It reminds me of movies trailers with huge quotes, but the source in tiny print. Was not surprised when it came out a lot of those were made up publications just to source praise.

I'm probably in the minority on this though.