If you’re new to self-publishing, chances are you’ve heard other authors casually mention ARC readers in Facebook groups, Discord servers, or KDP forums.
Maybe someone said:
- “I sent my ARCs out last week.”
- “My ARC team left reviews on launch day.”
- “You should build an ARC list before publishing.”
And you nodded along… while quietly wondering what an ARC actually is — and whether you should be doing the same thing.
That’s exactly why this article exists.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand:
- what an ARC reader really is
- how ARC readers are typically used
- the benefits and downsides of ARCs
- whether ARCs make sense for your publishing goals
- and what alternatives exist today for authors who want a simpler, more reliable approach
Let’s start from the beginning.
2. What Is an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy)?
An ARC, or Advanced Reader Copy, is a version of a book that’s shared before its official release.
It’s usually sent to a small group of readers with one main goal in mind:
to gather early feedback and, in many cases, early reviews.
Historically, ARCs were used by traditional publishers to generate buzz before a book hit shelves. In self-publishing, the concept evolved into something more grassroots — authors distributing early copies themselves.
These copies can be:
- digital (PDF, EPUB, Kindle files)
- occasionally physical (less common today)
They’re almost always shared for free.
3. The ARC Reader Meaning (In Plain English)
An ARC reader is simply someone who agrees to read your book before release.
In return, they might:
- leave an honest review after launch
- provide feedback on the story, pacing, or clarity
- help spot errors or inconsistencies
- support your book early on
Important clarification:
ARC readers are not supposed to be paid and cannot be incentivized for reviews (especially on Amazon).
They’re volunteers — often readers, bloggers, or fellow authors — who choose to read early because they’re interested in the genre or the author.
4. Who Can Be an ARC Reader?
In theory, almost anyone can be an ARC reader.
In practice, not everyone is a good one.
Common types of ARC readers include:
- loyal readers already on an author’s mailing list
- genre fans who actively review books
- book bloggers or BookTok creators
- other authors in the same niche
- readers recruited through ARC-focused communities
The key factor isn’t availability — it’s alignment.
An effective ARC reader:
- enjoys your genre
- actually finishes books
- understands how (and when) to leave a review
- isn’t doing it “just for the free book”
This is where many authors run into trouble.
5. ARC Reader vs Beta Reader: What’s the Difference?
These two terms are often used interchangeably — but they serve different purposes.
Beta Readers
- Read early drafts
- Provide feedback on plot, characters, pacing, clarity
- Help improve the manuscript before it’s finalized
- Reviews are not expected
ARC Readers
- Read a nearly finished book
- Focus on reader experience, not editing
- Often expected (but not required) to leave a review after launch
Think of it like this:
- Beta readers help you write a better book
- ARC readers help you launch it
Some people do both — but the intent is different.
6. The Typical ARC Journey for a New Author
Here’s how ARC readers usually enter an author’s publishing journey.
You’ve written your book.
You’re close to publishing.
And someone says, “You should get ARC readers.”
So you:
- Start searching for ARC communities
- Post in a few Facebook groups
- DM people who say they’re interested
- Send out early copies
- Wait…
Some readers respond quickly.
Others don’t respond at all.
A few never read the book.
Some forget to leave reviews.
This doesn’t mean ARCs “don’t work” — but it does mean the process is far less predictable than most beginners expect.
7. The Pros of Using ARC Readers
To be fair, ARC readers do offer real benefits.
Early social proof
If ARC readers leave reviews soon after launch, it can help your book feel “alive” rather than brand new and empty.
Feedback before wide release
Some ARC readers catch:
- typos
- confusing sections
- pacing issues
That feedback can be valuable, especially for first-time authors.
Community building
A small ARC team can turn into:
- loyal readers
- repeat supporters
- newsletter subscribers
When it works well, it really works well.
8. The Cons (and Hidden Friction) of ARC Readers
This is the part most blog posts gloss over.
Unpredictability
You might send out 50 ARCs and get:
- 5 reviews
- 10 pieces of feedback
- 35 people who vanish
There’s no guarantee of follow-through.
Time-consuming management
Managing ARCs often means:
- chasing responses
- sending reminders
- tracking who read what
- answering questions
- handling file issues
It’s manual work — and it adds up.
Review timing issues
Even well-intentioned ARC readers:
- forget to review
- review late
- leave reviews on platforms you didn’t prioritize
Platform limitations
On platforms like Amazon, ARC reviews must comply with strict rules.
If they don’t, reviews can be removed — or never appear at all.
9. What Not to Do With ARCs (Common Mistakes Authors Make)
If you decide to use ARC readers, avoid these pitfalls:
Don’t start too late
Recruiting ARC readers days before launch rarely works. You need time.
Don’t message everyone
Sending ARCs to readers who don’t enjoy your genre leads to poor engagement — or no engagement.
Don’t pressure readers
Constant reminders can:
- annoy readers
- damage your reputation
- discourage honest feedback
Don’t expect guaranteed reviews
ARC readers are volunteers. Expecting 100% compliance leads to frustration.
10. How to Prepare Your Book for ARC Readers
If you do use ARCs, preparation matters.
Best practices include:
- using a near-final manuscript
- clearly labeling the file as “ARC Copy”
- watermarking the document
- explaining expectations upfront
- being transparent about timelines
This protects both you and the reader — and sets the right tone.
11. Are ARC Readers Still Worth It in 2026?
The honest answer: it depends on the author.
ARC readers still work well for:
- authors with existing audiences
- genres with strong reader communities
- writers who enjoy hands-on relationship building
They’re less ideal for:
- first-time authors
- people who want predictable outcomes
- authors juggling multiple releases
- anyone who dislikes manual follow-ups
This is why many self-publishers now look for more structured alternatives.
12. A Modern Alternative to ARC Readers (Without the Headaches)
Today, authors increasingly want:
- faster reviews
- less admin work
- predictable timelines
- support across multiple platforms
This is where review platforms like Bookblaze come in.
Instead of:
- chasing ARC readers
- managing spreadsheets
- hoping reviews arrive on time
Authors can:
- request reviews in one place
- reach readers already interested in reviewing
- get reviews on Amazon, Apple Books, Goodreads, and more
- even request video reviews if desired
The key difference isn’t quality — it’s efficiency and control.
ARC readers rely on goodwill.
Modern platforms rely on systems.
For many self-publishers, that shift removes a huge amount of stress.
ARC readers aren’t bad.
They’re just not perfect.
For some authors, they’re a great fit.
For others, they become an exhausting bottleneck.
The most important takeaway is this:
There’s no single “right” way to launch a book — only the way that best fits your goals, time, and energy.
If you enjoy community-building and hands-on outreach, ARCs can work.
If you prefer a streamlined, automated approach that gets reviews faster and across more platforms, exploring alternatives like Bookblaze may make more sense. Sign up for a 14-day free trial with zero obligations here: www.bookblaze.co
Either way, understanding ARCs — not just copying what others do — puts you in control of your publishing strategy.
And that’s what really matters.
Missed our previous article on low content books on Amazon KDP? You can read it here.
