Is it a good idea to have a friend both proofread and write a review?

[Michelle]

I was thinking of having a few friends proofread my book and ask them to write honest reviews as well. Is this a common practise or do I ask them to review it after it's been published and have them read the final version again?

[Pamela]

Having them proofread it is a good idea - the more eyes that have been over your manuscript, the better. I have heard mixed opinions regarding reviews as Amazon especially doesn't like your friends reviewing your book. If their Amazon account is not linked to e.g. their Facebook account where you are friends, it shouldn't be an issue. I've had friends review my book, and I'm glad they have or I'd have no reviews at all! Realistically, your friends will be some of the first people to pick up a copy of your book. I'd ask them to review the final copy if possible, especially if you end up making many changes after your friends have provided feedback, but not if you only fix a few typos.

[Michelle]

Pamela wrote: "Having them proofread it is a good idea - the more eyes that have been over your manuscript, the better. I have heard mixed opinions regarding reviews as Amazon especially doesn't like your friends..."

That helps a lot, thank you!