Previous research has shown that bloggers with larger follower bases typically achieve higher sales, whereas those with smaller follower counts face challenges in enhancing sales. However, limited research has focused on how novice sellers – bloggers with fewer followers - attract consumers effectively. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in e-commerce has introduced AI-powered review bots into social media marketing, raising the question: How do AI review bots influence sellers with varying follower counts, especially novice sellers? Study 1 uses data from the platform to empirically validate the positive correlation between follower count and sales performance. Building on this foundation, Study 2 employs an experimental design to explore the moderating effect of AI review bots on this relationship and the mediating role of perceived service quality. The findings reveal that for bloggers with large follower counts, AI-generated replies are generally perceived as generic, diminishing service quality perceptions and reducing purchase intentions. Conversely, for bloggers with fewer followers, AI review bots create a perception of personalized interaction, enhancing perceived service quality and increasing purchase intentions. These findings offer both theoretical and practical implications for leveraging AI technologies to drive consumer behavior in the early stages of seller development.