ARC Reviews

If you’ve spent any time in the bookish corner of the internet, you’ve probably seen the term ARC tossed around—but what does it actually mean?

In this post, we’re breaking down ARCs (Advance Reader Copies):

what they are
why they exist
how readers (yes, even you) can get access to them

ARCs are early copies of books sent out before publication, usually to generate buzz and gather reviews, but there’s a whole system behind who gets them and why.

Whether you’re a casual reader, aspiring reviewer, or building your own book blog or Bookstagram, this guide will walk you through the basics of ARCs, the etiquette around them, and how to start requesting them like a pro. Think of this as your no-BS intro to getting books before everyone else

What is an ARC?

An ARC (Advance Reader Copy) is an early version of a book distributed before its official publication date. These copies are sent out by publishers or authors to generate buzz, early reviews, and hype around their new releases.

ARCs can come in a few forms:

Physical ARCs – printed copies (sometimes labeled “uncorrected proof”)
eARCs – digital copies sent via platforms like NetGalley, Edelweiss, or BookSirens
Audiobook ARCs – early access to audio versions (less common, but growing)

Important Disclaimer: ARCs are often not the final version. They may contain typos, formatting issues, or minor content changes. If that bugs you while you read, either prepare to let it go or don’t sign up to do ARC reviews.

Who Gets ARCs?

Not just influencers with 100k followers, that’s for sure. Look at me and my blog, its brand new at the time I write this.

ARCs are much more accessible than you think. I was shocked myself at how easy if was to sign up and get started.

Common ARC readers include:

Book bloggers & reviewers
Bookstagram / BookTok creators
Goodreads reviewers
Librarians & booksellers
Everyday readers building a review presence

Translation: You can get ARCs too, even as a beginner.

How Do You Get ARCs?

(because I sure as hell had no idea and google was my friend when I decided to start this journey)

Here are the main ways (Google and Chatgpt provided):

1. ARC Platforms

NetGalley (I have signed up for this one exclusively at this time, limit the overwhelm, etc)
Edelweiss+
BookSirens
Hidden Gems (for indie books)

Typically create a profile, request books, and wait for approval.

My first time doing this I went a tad bit overboard thinking I was brand new, had no history and most publishers would say no. They in fact did not, que the 30+ ARC reviews I am currently weeding my way through. Don’t be like me, learn from my ADHD impulse control issues.

2. Direct from Authors

Join author newsletters
Follow indie authors on social media
Sign up for ARC teams/street teams

I have noticed that these are definitely a great way to go but you need a blog or an established history often times to provide sample writings of reviews and demonstrate committment. I plan to sign up with Author’s directly in the coming months, so stay tuned.

3. Publishers/Publicists

Once you have a blog or platform, you can email publishers directly with review requests

ARC Etiquette (Don’t Be That Person)

Getting ARCs comes with expectations.

Actually review the book (this is the whole point, don’t be a dick, you’re gettin these copies for free and getting ot read them months ahead of their release, be a good person)
Post reviews on time (ideally before or on release day, so ya, I missed one already by two days but that’s okay, they still appreciate your review!)
Be honest but respectful in your reviews
Don’t pirate or share ARCs illegally

If you ghost reviews repeatedly, you’ll get denied in the future.

If you’re still unsure about ARCs: Pros & Cons of Reading ARCs

Pros:

Read books early (I absolutely love this fact, I got to read Ember & Ace by Kate Crew early and that made me ridiculously happy!)
Build relationships with authors/publishers
Grow your blog/brand
Free books (yes, we love that)

Cons:

Deadlines = pressure
Not all books will be hits (i.e. Dinosaur Erotica…ADHD impulse control and curiousity…it was rough but hilarious read)
Potential burnout if you overcommit (ummmm…definitely a concern…)

Are ARCs Worth It?

If you love reviewing, talking about books, or building a bookish platform—100% yes.

If you just want to casually read without pressure… maybe not.

Final Thoughts

ARCs are your ticket into the behind-the-scenes world of publishing, but they’re also a commitment. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t overpromise.

And remember: you don’t need a massive following to start—just a genuine love for books and a willingness to share your thoughts. At least that’s what I am telling myself as I start at the beginnning and deal with WordPress formating…