How can I become an ARC reader? Reviews mean the world to an author. They help attract new readers, fuel search algorithms, and well, authors just love seeing that people enjoyed reading their labor of love! People often ask me how they can support authors by becoming ARC readers, so I thought I’d provide some information that might be helpful.
What does “ARC” stand for?
For those who are unfamiliar, “ARC” stands for “Advanced Review Copy.” Depending on the author, this can be an eBook, audiobook, or hard copy.
What’s expected from ARC readers?
This depends on the author, but typically you will be provided a free copy of the book several weeks before its release date. Some authors are flexible, but it’s highly recommended that you have your review posted by the day the book launches (or soon after). You are expected to provide your honest opinion on sites the author sells on, such as Amazon or Barns & Noble, or book review sites like BookBub or Goodreads. Many readers also run their own book blogs and social accounts, and while authors don’t generally require it, we always appreciate a shout out.
Does it cost me anything? Do I get paid?
You as a reader shouldn’t have to pay to join a community. In fact, its against Amazon’s policy (and other sites) to pay anyone with either cash or gifts to leave a review. Yes, there are book bloggers out there who offer paid services, but the author is technically paying for the service, not the review itself. If Amazon catches the author paying readers for reviews, they could get into some very serious trouble.
So to sum it up: You’re being offered a free book in exchange for your time and your opinion of it. Unless you’re looking to start your own business, no cash or gifts should be involved by either party.
Do all authors accept ARC readers?
If you’re looking to get involved with wildly successful authors like J.K. Rowling or Stephen King, you can best move on unless you’re some insanely well known popular book reviewer with the name and reach to go with it (like Oprah or Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club). Successful authors are typically published by one of the big book publishers, and they’ll focus on maximizing their reach to those who can help really market the book and get it in front of the most readers. This isn’t always true, but even so, popular authors may limit the number of free copies that are given out and, if you’re just an average reader, you probably won’t make the list.
Instead, focus your efforts on helping out lesser known indie authors and those published under small presses. We have a much more difficult time reaching people and reviews are more meaningful to us. Most of us are also easier to approach and will respond directly to you on a more personal level.
Ok, you convinced me. Where can I sign up?
First off, on behalf of all indie authors, thank you for your support! I am hugging my monitor in appreciation of your generosity. If you’re ready to commit to such a meaningful mission in life, here are a few places to start:
- Many smaller authors will have a form on their website you can fill out to be added to their mailing list when new books become available. (And if you’re looking for mine, it’s here!)
- If you’re looking for an author who isn’t self published, you can search for any information that might be available on the publisher’s website.
- If you can’t find any information on their website, or if they don’t have one, hit up their social channels. An author may not respond to a direct message, but since many indie authors have to beg for reviews, they will probably accept your request with open arms and a steak dinner to go with it.
- Try review sites. NetGalley is by far one of the most popular places to find ARCs. Other sites include BookSirens, Hidden Gems Books, AuthorsXP, BookSprout, StoryOrigin, and Voracious Readers Only.
- Pop into Facebook groups. Search Facebook for ARC groups, and you’ll find thousands of them. Some are more popular than others, and many are even geared toward a specific genre.
Remember that with review sites, that you are limited to what books are posted. Since authors typically have to pay to be listed, you may only see the first book in the series or maybe not see a specific series at all. If you’re looking to become a permanent part of their review team, make sure to get on their mailing list. (Note: this is often separate from their standard newsletter email.)
I requested a review copy, but I can no longer can commit to reviewing. What should I do?
From the perspective of an author, this is a real bummer. If you found the author through a service, there’s a good chance they paid for your request (some may be a one time fee, but others charge based on reader). By submitting a request for the book, you are committing yourself to reading it. Additionally, many smaller authors probably have under 50 reviewers on their list, and even if they have a larger list, it’s not uncommon for half of them to never leave a review. Failure to leave a review could also remove you from their list going forward.
However, not all of us are monsters who will hunt you down and claim your firstborn. Unforeseen circumstances happen. If you can no longer commit to reading the book, reach out to the author and let them know. While you may not be able to get your review up during the requested time frame, I’ve never met an author who will say no to a review so you will likely still be able to post it at a later date. If they are using a service like BookSprout or StoryOrigin, remember to go in and post the links to your reviews when they’re completed.
I really hated the book. Do I have to leave a review?
If you find yourself really not enjoying the book, it’s best to reach out to the author and offer some feedback. Remember, for every one star review an author needs about seven five star reviews to make up for it. However, that’s not to say you can’t go ahead and leave that one star review. The author should know and respect that you are not required to leave 5 stars and that you’re providing your honest review whether you liked it or not. If you choose to leave a review that’s three stars or less, be respectful and focus on making it helpful for other readers. Don’t bash the book and the author. They put a lot of hard work into writing that story, and while you may not have enjoyed it that doesn’t mean others will share your opinion. You can also check out my blog post on how to write negative feedback for a book review without being a jerk.
Hopefully this information will encourage you to seek out some of your favorite authors and join their ARC teams! Go forth, my readers, and find a writer to support! (And if that’s me, go here.)
