Maybe your friends are talking about them. Or you keep seeing them in everyone’s Bookstagram bios: “ARC reader.” Cool, but…what does that even mean? And how does it all work?
If you’re full of questions and want the quick-and-dirty answers while your littles are still snoozing (or before your coffee goes cold), you’re in the right place. I’m breaking down every question I had before I started dabbling in advanced reader copies—so you don’t have to do the Googling spiral yourself.
How ARCs Work
At its core, an advanced reader copy (ARC) is an early copy of a book sent out by publishers or authors. Readers request them, get approved, and (hopefully) leave a review. That’s it.
Most ARCs are requested through NetGalley or Edelweiss, but indie authors and small presses often manage their own ARC teams through Instagram, newsletters, or email sign-ups.
Advanced Reader Copy FAQ Guide
#1 What is an advanced reader copy (ARC)?
An ARC is exactly what it sounds like—an early copy of a book. Publishers and authors hand them out before release day in exchange for an honest review. Think of it like a sneak peek into the book world…with a side of responsibility.
#2 Why do people request ARCs?
Readers request advance reader copies to:
- Read favorite authors before release day (yes, bragging rights count).
- Discover new voices before they hit big.
- Help boost books with early buzz.
- Build up a blog, Bookstagram, BookTok, or Goodreads profile with fresh reviews.
It’s basically bookish insider status.
#3 How do I get ARCs?
There are a few ways to get started, depending on whether you want to apply through Netgalley, publisher forms, or directly with indie authors (or a combo of all three!)
- NetGalley → Create a free account, browse titles, and start requesting. (Need details? I’ve got a full NetGalley guide you can check out.)
- Publisher forms → Publishers often drop ARC request links in their Instagram bios or newsletters. Fill them out with your review links (Goodreads, Instagram, blog, etc.) and apply.
- Indie authors → Many use services like BookFunnel, where you’ll get an easy ePub download to send straight to your Kindle or reading app.
If you’re approved, you’re in! Then it’s time to read and review. Here’s a quick visual to save for later!
#4 Are ARCs free to request?
Yep! Once you’re approved, they’re free to read. The only catch? You agree to leave an honest review once you’re done.
#5 Where do I leave reviews when I’m done?
You can leave reviews anywhere bookish, like:
- Goodreads
- Amazon
- Instagram (posts, reels, carousels—it all works)
- TikTok (#BookTok loves ARC content)
- Your own blog or Substack
- If in doubt, share it where you normally share bookish thoughts.
#6 How do publishers choose who gets an ARC?
Some look at social media stats (follower count and engagement). Others seek consistent reviews on Goodreads or Amazon, and some simply want readers who are genuinely excited about the book. Indie publishers and self-pub authors often have more flexible criteria, while the bigger houses can be more selective.
#7 Can anyone request an ARC?
Absolutely—anyone who’s interested can apply! First-time ARC reader? Welcome aboard. Seasoned ARC veteran? You’re in the right place, too. The key is just finding the right platform or publisher to start with.
#8 Are ARCs physical books or e-books?
Both exist, but e-books are way more common. On NetGalley, you can send them straight to your Kindle app. Indie authors often send ARCs via BookFunnel, which gives you an ePub to read on whatever app you prefer. Physical ARCs usually go to readers with bigger followings or long-standing relationships with the publisher.
#9 Should I review every ARC I receive?
Short answer: yes. If you’re approved, you should leave a review—whether you loved it or not.
That doesn’t mean you need to bash a book you DNF’d on Goodreads the week before launch. A thoughtful note on NetGalley or in the publisher’s form still counts. Personally, I avoid posting ratings lower than 3 stars before release day, but you can always share your honest thoughts in a constructive way.
#10 How do I get approved for ARCs on NetGalley?
Think of your profile as your “bookish résumé.” Publishers want to see that you’re active, reliable, and will actually leave reviews. Fill out your profile with links (Goodreads, Instagram, blog), keep your ratio of approved-to-reviewed books high, and start small before shooting for the buzzy titles.
#11 How are indie publisher ARC requests different?
Indie authors and publishers are sometimes more relaxed. They may care less about follower counts and more about enthusiasm or niche interests. Many recruit ARC readers directly on Instagram or through newsletters. It’s often more personal, and sometimes you’ll get direct contact with the author themselves.
#12 Do I need a social media account to receive ARCs?
Not necessarily. Social media helps (publishers like “reach”), but plenty of reviewers get approved through Goodreads profiles or blogs alone. Think of it as proving you have a place to share your reviews—social media is just one option.
#13 Do ARCs count toward my Goodreads or Amazon reviews?
Of course! An ARC is still a book. Posting about it early can even help boost your blog or site traffic, since you’re writing about a title before most people can.
#14 How far in advance do ARCs come out before release day?
It varies, but typically anywhere from two weeks to 6 months before publication. That gives publishers time to build buzz and for reviewers to (hopefully) post in advance of launch week.
#15 Is there a limit to how many ARCs I can request at once?
You can technically request as many as you want…but remember, approvals can pile up fast. Nothing’s worse than getting five approvals in one day and realizing you’re on the hook for reviews. Request wisely (your future reading schedule will thank you).
Ready to Get Started with Advanced Reader Copies?
Maybe you’re ready to dive in. But you might still be on the fence—and that’s okay! If you’re not sure you’re ready to dive into the ARC community, I’ve got you — check out my list of pros and cons to see if it’s the right fit.
Read it here: Are Advanced Reader Copies Worth It? 3 Pros and Cons for Book Lovers