What an ARC is
An ARC is an advance reader copy: a free copy of your book that you give to readers before or around launch, so they can read it and post a review when it goes on sale. Traditional publishers used to send printed proofs to reviewers and booksellers. Today most ARCs are ebooks, and indie authors send them straight to readers.
Why ARCs sell books
When a shopper lands on a book with no reviews, they have nothing to go on but the cover and the blurb. Reviews from real readers answer the question every buyer has: is this worth my time? ARCs are how you get those reviews in place when it matters most, on launch day.
They do more than that, too. Early readers talk about books they've enjoyed. Every ARC reader is a chance for a post, a recommendation or a reader who comes back for your next book.
The goal of an ARC isn't free books. It's reviews and readers in place before your launch, not after it.
Who should get one
The best ARC readers already love your genre. That might be existing fans, followers who comment on your posts, or readers who share books on BookTok and Bookstagram. Readers who chose your book because it sounds like their kind of story are far more likely to finish it and post a review.
When to send them
Send ARCs a few weeks before launch so readers have time to finish. Keep in mind that Amazon only accepts reviews once a book is on sale, so ask readers to post on release day or soon after. A clear review window, with a gentle reminder, makes a big difference to how many follow through.
Staying within Amazon's rules
Giving away a free copy in exchange for a review is allowed. What isn't allowed is asking for a positive review, paying for reviews, or swapping reviews with other authors. Reviews from close friends and family can also be removed. Readers should mention that they received a free copy.
- Give the book for free. Never pay or reward a review.
- Never ask for a particular star rating.
- Avoid review swaps and reviews from people close to you.
- Ask readers to mention they received a free early copy.
Running one without a newsletter
Most ARC advice assumes you already have an email list. If your readers live on TikTok and Instagram instead, put a single sign-up link in your bio. Let followers apply for a copy, send it to them automatically, and remind them before their review is due. The readers who opt in become the mailing list you didn't have, ready for your next launch.
