What's an ARC and how do I get one?

After years of working as an author assistant, I’ve realized that sometimes I forget that not all readers know the acronyms we throw around in the book world. HEA (happily ever after), FMC (female main character), ARC (advance reader copy) and so many more.

Today, I’m sharing what an ARC reader does, what makes a good one, and and I have two opportunities for you to join an ARC team.

You might have seen a book label Advance Reader Edition or Copy. These are not a finalized copy of the book and ethically it is wrong to ever sell or share an ARC.

First, What is an ARC?

An ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) is a pre-publication version of a book that is set to readers in exchange for an honest, early review.

In the “olden days” (read as pre-COVID), a lot of publishers sent out paperback copies with reckless abandon. Now, it’s mostly e-books with occasionally bigger “influencers” being sent physical copies to share with their audience.

What Makes a Great ARC Reader?

1. Reliability and Commitment ARC readers are the unsung heroes to authors. They need to be dependable, committed to reading the entire book within a specified timeframe, and capable of providing thoughtful, constructive feedback. Authors rely on these readers to help generate early buzz and gather valuable insights before a book's official release.

   (Some authors might even ask you to point our any typos or mistakes you find pre-publication)

2. Honest and Constructive Feedback The most valuable ARC readers provide balanced, detailed reviews. This means going beyond a simple "I liked it" or "I didn't like it." Great ARC readers:

• Offer specific observations about plot, characters, and writing style

• Highlight both strengths and potential areas for improvement. This does NOT mean you give a horrible review to a book just because you didn’t like the tropes or the genre. Sorry I have to get on my soap box for a second here. I’m seeing more and more reviews leave reviews like “I don’t like historical romance but I picked up this book. 1 star because I remember I don’t like historical romance".” No! You aren’t judging it by your likes and dislikes. Review the plot, the writing, the overall story. And then let us know that it was a trope you realized you don't love, but the writing was solid.

• Write reviews that are both honest and respectful

• Understand the difference between constructive criticism and harsh judgment

3. Active Online Presence In today's social media heavy environment, ARC readers are often expected to:

• Post reviews on platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, and BookBub

• Share their thoughts on social media

• Engage with the author's online community (at least around release time)

• Help spread the word about upcoming releases (if you continue on the team)

4. Genre Expertise While versatility is great, the most effective ARC readers often specialize in specific genres. Whether it's romance, science fiction, historical fiction, or non-fiction, deep knowledge of a genre helps provide more nuanced feedback.

Interested in Becoming an ARC Reader?

Are you passionate about books? Do you love being among the first to discover new stories? Are you able to share with an audience and leave a review on Amazon, and any bookish review places like goodreads, BookBub or Storygraph?

Here's your chance to join an ARC team!

ARC Reader Applications.

Book Blurb -

Harper

Elves don’t exist.

They don’t jump out of portals in the middle of the motor vehicle office looking like the god of thunder and claiming that I’m the chosen one to save the elven world. But that’s exactly what happened. Aaran is a pointy-eared magic-wielding elf, and he’s hard to say no to.

Then there’s the fact that I can’t get my own life together enough to renew my driver’s license before it expires. How am I supposed to fight a witch queen and save his world? He must have the wrong Jersey Girl.

Aaran

My job is to get the human woman and bring her back to Domhan, just as the oracle commanded. Caring was not part of the deal. I shouldn’t have healed her mother, but my world is doomed, and once Harper says she won’t help, what does it matter if I expend all my magic? It seemed like the right thing to do. I didn’t do it to sway her decision, but when it does and she agrees to help me, I can’t say no.

The oracle said that Harper’s magic was strong but untapped. I pray they’re right or we’ll never make it past the witch queen’s minions waiting to destroy us.

Apply to be on the ARC team HERE. (NOTE - the release date is February 18th, 2025)

Book Blurb -

Tamsin Kernick joins a quaint rural tennis club in sight of the Malvern Hills, only to discover that the drama on the court is nothing compared to the trouble brewing off it.

When a member is found dead, Tamsin and her trusty canine companions must serve up some justice before someone else wins the match. As her friends from her favourite café rally to uncover the truth, Tamsin finds herself tangled in a net of secrets, lies, and deadly rivalries. Can she ace this mystery before it's too late?

Tamsin’s super dogs are at the forefront of serving this criminal their just deserts (but not the luscious desserts from the café!). No ne’er-do-well is a match for these three dogs and their amazing tricks!

For lovers of Agatha Christie and James Herriot, dogs, and the English countryside.

This is book 8 in the series, but it can be read as standalone.

Apply to be on the ARC team HERE. (NOTE - the release date is February 16th, 2025)

If you are considering either of these books and can commit to leaving a review within the first week of release, I encourage you to sign up!

* for every upgraded membership, I will be donating a historical fiction or romance book to a local women’s shelter. Want to choose what book is donated? Just send me a message after you subscribe.

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