How to Research Reader Habits on Goodreads and Amazon

A Fantasy Author’s Guide to Reading Between the Lines

Welcome, fellow fantasy authors! Ready to delve into the mystical world of reader habits? No, this isn't about deciphering your readers’ deepest, darkest thoughts—though that sounds like a good time. Instead, it's about using platforms like Goodreads and Amazon to understand what your ideal readers really want. Think of it as a treasure map leading you to your next great book launch. Let’s get to the good stuff!

1. Trawl Goodreads Like a Literary Pirate

Ahoy, reader! Goodreads is a goldmine of feedback, reviews, and ratings—basically, it's like a crystal ball for understanding your potential audience... for free. To make the most of this powerful tool, you’ll need to go on a research adventure. Here’s how to do it:

• Explore Similar Books: Start by searching for books similar to yours (or books you’d like to see yours compared to). Head to the book's page and check out the reviews. But not just any reviews—look for patterns. What do readers praise? What do they gripe about? The comments about pacing, world-building, and character depth? Goldmine, my friend. Take note of recurring themes, as these are your clues to what readers truly crave. In my experience, the gold nuggets are found in the 3- and 4-star reviews, so don't sleep on those.

• Join Groups and Discussions: Goodreads groups are like magical guilds filled with readers who can give you insider knowledge. Join groups dedicated to fantasy, epic adventures, romantasy, or sub-genres that align with your writing. Participate in discussions or simply lurk to see what readers are talking about—be it their favorite tropes, what they’re tired of, or the next big trend in fantasy literature. It's a great place to be inspired and kick off new ideas you may not have considered before.

• Follow Readers and Authors: If you find a reviewer whose taste aligns with yours, follow them! See what else they’re reading and reviewing. And while you're at it, follow authors in your niche too. Their followers are your potential readers, and their insights might reveal ways to make your writing shine even brighter. The best way to approach this is by being genuine and intentional. Who do you want to see on your "for-you-page" every day? Who inspires you? It's time for quality over quantity.

2. Uncover Amazon’s Secrets Like a Literary Spy

Okay, we all know Amazon is the marketplace for books, so it’s time to harness its power to learn what sells—and why. But don't just scroll mindlessly through bestsellers. Instead, become a spy in the shadows of Amazon’s algorithms with these simple tips:

• Check Out the Categories: You’ve heard of Amazon's bestsellers list, but have you explored its subcategories? Browse the fantasy genre and take note of which books are ranking highly in categories that match your work. Look for trends in cover designs, titles, and keywords that are getting the most traction. How can you improve or innovate the current trends you are seeing? Do you see the currents shifting in any certain way? Always be vigilant.

• Review the Reviews (But Don’t Go Crazy): Like Goodreads, Amazon reviews are packed with gold. Start by reading the 3- to 4-star reviews for a balanced view of what readers loved and hated. Look for common complaints or praises. Is there a particular trope readers can’t get enough of? Or are they crying out for more complex villains? These patterns are your guide to building a book that appeals to your audience and keeps you from making the same mistakes authors before you have made. I've always strived to be the kind of person who learns from others' mistakes, and by diving this deep into the reviews, you may save yourself a lot of future headaches.

• Keyword Research is Key: When your book is ready for launch, you’ll need the perfect keywords to make sure readers can find it. Amazon allows you to search books by keyword, so use it wisely. Type in terms related to your book (e.g., “epic fantasy,” “dragon shifters,” or “romantic fantasy”). See what books pop up and check out their descriptions, titles, and reviews. These keywords give you an idea of what readers are searching for—and what they’re interested in.

3. Spy on Readers, I'll Allow It

Okay, let’s face it: sometimes we all have to get a little sneaky. But this is research, not stalking—promise! There are subtle ways you can "spy" on reader habits without crossing the line.

• Analyze Bestseller Lists: Look at Amazon's Top 100 fantasy books or Goodreads’ Most Popular Fantasy list. This is like tapping into the pulse of the genre. What kinds of books are dominating the market? What do the covers, titles, and blurbs have in common? Are readers flocking to darker, grittier tales, or are they craving lighthearted adventures? Is your current book fitting within the environment that's being set by readers? Is the timing right? All important questions to ask.

• Study Previews and Excerpts: A lot of books on Amazon and Goodreads offer free sample chapters. Read them. No, really—read them. See what hooks readers in the first few pages. What makes them want to keep going? What makes them click “buy”? This is your chance to understand reader expectations at the very beginning of their reading experience.

4. Put Your Findings to Work

You’ve done the research—now, what? It’s time to let the data guide you as you develop your brand and craft your next fantasy masterpiece.

Your research on Goodreads and Amazon isn’t just about reading reviews; it’s about listening to what readers are asking for. And you can use that knowledge to tailor your book’s cover design, description, plot elements, and even your social media marketing.

Want to stand out in the crowded fantasy genre? Use these insights to tweak your book’s premise so it aligns with reader desires.

Need to refine your niche? This is where you find it. Don’t just write what you love—write what readers need, and they’ll come flocking to your pages.

So, there you have it! Researching reader habits on Goodreads and Amazon doesn’t have to be as daunting as slaying a dragon. With a little focus and strategy, you’ll have all the tools you need to write books that not only capture readers' imaginations—but keep them coming back for more.

Now go forth, fellow author—your next bestseller is waiting to be discovered!

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