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This article is adapted from content originally published on timowenauthor.co.nz

ARC guide for authors and readers

If you are brand new to ARCs, check out the quick definition below.
Otherwise, pick a path, and I’ll walk you through the nitty gritty.
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What is an ARC?

An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) is a pre-publication version of a book, given to selected readers for free on the understanding that they will post a review if they choose to. The idea is simple: help the book launch with a bit of early momentum — and, where platforms allow it, early reviews. Amazon generally doesn’t allow reviews before release day.
Reviews are voluntary, unpaid and should be honest. A good ARC reader knows how to deliver a tough review without being a jerk: mention what worked (hopefully something!), explain what didn’t, and if it’s mainly a taste/genre thing, say so. Be honest, but gentle. Critique the book, not the author.
visit arc groups
This is a symbiotic relationship between authors and readers

Readers get access to thousands of books for free

Authors can get early reviews so the book shows movement soon after launch

Authors find out if the book lands the way they intended before the world at large sees it

Word‑of‑mouth from real readers (and hopefully fans)asy favorites

Reviews should be considered a gift, not an expectation: readers are under no obligation to leave reviews, and don't need to explain why. 
Woman Reading Book
Why might a reader not leave a review

Often, it's for the sake of the author. Perhaps the reader did not enjoy the book, DNF (did not finish), or found too many problems with the grammar or formatting. Some readers choose to let the author know in private, but if they don't take negative feedback well, then this good intention comes back to bite the reader on the bum.

Life. It happens, and people's best intentions don't always go according to plan. If the reader enjoyed the book, chances are they will add their review at a later date.

Never badger or nag a reader to leave a review. They are doing us a service, for free.
Ready? Pick a lane.
Frequently Asked Questions

For Readers

  • That's okay, you’re allowed to. Not every book is for every brain.
    If you do review, be honest without being cruel — focus on what didn’t work for you and why. If you can find something positive to say, mention it.
    If you DNF, it’s totally okay to skip reviewing (or send the author a quick private note if you want).

  • Ideally during launch week (or within the first 1–2 weeks after release).
    That’s when reviews help the most. If life happens, no guilt — just do your best, darling.

  • Common places: Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and sometimes social media (Instagram / TikTok / Facebook).


    The author will usually tell you which ones matter most for their launch.

  • Please don’t. ARC files are for the approved reader only.
    If your friend wants in, send them the sign-up link — easy.

  • That said, reviews are the whole point of an ARC team — so only sign up if you think you’ll be able to leave an honest review around launch week. If life happens, it happens.

  • DNF is allowed. Sometimes the vibes just aren’t vibing.
    If you DNF, you can simply not review — or, if you feel comfortable, send the author a quick private note (one sentence is fine). No drama, no guilt.

  • Usually not on Amazon — Amazon generally doesn’t allow reviews before release day.
    Other platforms (like Goodreads) may be more flexible, but the safest rule is: post during launch week unless the author says otherwise.

  • Yes. Most authors deliver ARCs through BookFunnel (or similar), which lets you Send to Kindle in a couple of clicks.
    If you can read on a phone/tablet too, that’s a handy backup when Kindle decides to be… Kindle.

  • Short quotes are usually fine (and appreciated!) as long as you credit the author/book.
    Just don’t upload the file, don’t post full chapters, and don’t share the download link.

  • It depends on the platform. Some places (and some countries) prefer you to mention it, so you’re being transparent.

    Generally, though, it's not necessary.

  • You'll have to post a video on social media of you doing the chicken dance.

    Okay, not really, but that would be fun, wouldn't it?

    Life happens. If you’re going to miss the review window, a quick heads-up to the author is kind — but not mandatory.
    If you can still review later, great. If not, no shame.

  • Honest, specific, and fair. A couple of sentences is enough, usually better. You got the book for free but that does not obligate you to like it.
    Mention what you liked, what didn’t work for you, and who the book is (or isn’t) for. Critique the book, not the author.

    If something seems terribly wrong, a note to the author is appreciated, but not required. (It has happened that an author uploaded the wrong version , a reader queried it privately, and then went on to give 5 stars to the correct version.)

Frequently Asked Questions

For Authors

  • Start small: 10–30 is plenty for your first round.
    Expect only 50–70%

  • Common sweet spot: 2–4 weeks before release.
    Close enough that readers remember it, far enough that they can actually finish it. If your book is long, lean toward 4 weeks.

  • EPUB is the default (works on most devices and with BookFunnel).
    Optional extras: PDF (some readers prefer it) and MOBI (mostly outdated now). If you only choose one, choose EPUB.

  • BookFunnel (or similar) because it handles device issues and “help, my Kindle is possessed” emails.
    If you deliver manually, expect more admin and troubleshooting.

  • You can’t force reviews, and you shouldn’t try.

    What you can do is set clear expectations: “If you sign up, please leave an honest review around launch week if you’re able.” Keep it friendly, not threatening.

  • Careful here. It can come across as manipulative, and some platforms don’t love it.
    Safer approach: encourage honesty, and invite DNFs or critical feedback privately if they’d rather not post publicly.

  • Nothing fancy. One line is enough:
    “By accepting this ARC, you agree not to share, upload, or distribute the file.”
    Add it as a required checkbox on the form and you’re covered for normal purposes.

  • A simple, low-stress version:

    • 4–2 weeks before: recruit + accept readers

    • 2–3 weeks before: send ARC

    • Launch week: send one gentle reminder + review links

    • 1 week after: optional “thank you” (or just move on with your life)

  • Technically, that's not an ARC — it’s just a review copy (RC). But the answer is: Totally! ARC readers love to read and are not fussy about whether it is a new release or not.

    Caveat: Reviews alone won’t drive traffic to an older book. They help once people arrive on the page (social proof), but awareness usually comes from promotion.

    If your goal is visibility for an older title, recruit readers who can help you spread the word, such as those who:

    • have an active following in your genre (even small-to-mid is fine if engagement is real)

    • post reviews consistently (Amazon/Goodreads/BookBub/magazines and/or socials)

    • are happy to share a post, reel/story, or newsletter mention during your relaunch window

  • That is typically not the best fit — the effort level is different.

    • ARC readers expect an enjoyable complete read and a light ask: Please review if you can

    • Beta readers expect work: a draft that may be messy, specific questions to answer, and permission to point out plot holes, confusion, pacing issues, and weak bits.

    Best approach: use a small beta team first (5–12), revise, then send the polished version to your ARC team for launch.

    *Not hard fact, but a general rule. Some ARC readers might be up for it, but it isn't the norm. Don't ask for it, look out for readers offering it.

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