ARC stands for Advanced Reader Copy. It’s the stage when the book is in its nearly final, polished form.

Right now, I’m working on my book galleys. Once all the edits have been addressed, an ARC will become available to early readers who agree to read the book for free and post a review before or upon the book’s release.

Currently, I’m an ARC reader for an author who writes delightfully exciting thrillers. I applied when she posted the call for ARC readers in her newsletter. Authors might also do a call out for ARC readers on their social media. I’m inhaling the chapters and can’t wait to let potential readers know what a page-turner this book is and why.

ARC readers are not ALPHA readers, who read a very rough draft of your book, one that hasn’t been edited or polished.

ARC readers are not BETA readers, who read an edited draft after the author has dealt with structure and story. Authors often ask BETA readers specific questions like what’s working and what’s not working, was the ending satisfying, were there slow parts they wanted to skip and that sort of thing. BETA readers should be folks who read in your genre and who you hope would enjoy your type of book.

So why do authors need ARC readers?

Because before a book comes out, authors and publishers use them to help create excitement about an upcoming book and reviews provide potential buyers with insights into whether or not this upcoming book would be something they will want to read.

Reviews are usually posted on Goodreads and Amazon. Websites like NewGalley, BookFunnel and BookSirens help authors and publishers find readers who want to read ARCs and write honest reviews.

Instagram, YouTube and TikTok are also great places to find ARC readers. On Instagram, there’s a whole community of Bookstagrammers who review and recommend new books. Tik Tok has BookTok, another great place to find out about new reads.

ARC readers do not get paid, but they do get to read the book for free in exchange for their review.

These days, most ARCs are digital rather than print copies due to the cost of print books.

But authors beware. Some ARC readers are simply interested in free books and won’t leave the review. Some won’t even read the book. Statistics say that only 20-40% of ARC readers follow through with the review, so be prepared.

My publisher has an online group for folks who want to be ARC readers for the authors published by them. Vetted groups like this can result in a higher percentage of reviews. It’s good to check out potential ARC readers to see if they actually read in your genre, post constructive reviews and do so on the platform(s) you require.

Some authors even have a form that says by signing up for an ARC copy, they will also be subscribed to the author’s newsletter. That’s up to you.

ARC readers are also told that they cannot distribute this free copy to anyone else.

Getting those early reviews can be an exciting time generated buzz while authors wait for their book to be released.

Have you ever wanted to be an ARC reader?

If you would like to be an ARC reader for my upcoming book, They’re Watching, comment below.