To me, there is no better feeling than getting to read a book before it is officially released. Especially if it is an author’s DEBUT work. I don’t know why, but getting to be one of the first people to read and review a novel is so fun, and I get to recommend books that no one else has read yet! I feel like this gives me the opportunity to provide fresh book recommendations instead of recommending the same books that everyone else is. That’s why I love, love, LOVE to receive ARCs.
You might be asking – what is an ARC? ARC stands for Advance Reader Copy. They are sent out weeks to months prior to a book’s official publication day (the day you can walk into a B&N and pick it up off the shelf). ARCs help authors receive some exposure and reviews before the big release day. You can promote the book on your blog or social media, helping the book to receive some interest before it goes on sale.
Does reading ARCs sound interesting to you? Keep reading to see where and how you can request them.
1. NetGalley
NetGalley is probably THE MOST popular site for requesting ARCs. This is the site where most big publishers offer ARCs of their books. It is free to become a member.
One caveat to NetGalley is that they WILL keep track of how many ARCs you actually read and review. If your review completion rating is low… you generally won’t continue to get approved.
2. BookSirens
BookSirens is very similar to NetGalley. It’s an online platform where you can request eARCs from different authors and publishers.
I have not seen a review completion rate on BookSirens, and I feel that this platform features more indie authors. So, if you want to read indie ARCs or debut novels, check out book sirens!
3. Instagram ARC Campaigns
Instagram is probably the #1 place where I personally sign up for ARCs. If you are in the Bookstagram space, I’m sure you’ve seen authors advertise their ARC signups. Most of the time, they will have a Google Forms link in their bio where you can sign up!
One way to see more ARC sign-up opportunities is to follow more authors on Instagram!
4. Instagram Threads
In a similar vein to Instagram, their partner app Threads is a great way to find ARCs to read. ARC is a very popular keyword. If you post something along the lines of, “Hey everyone, I’m looking for ARCs to read!”, you will get many authors in the comments who are offering you their novels. So, don’t be afraid to send out a general request for ARCs!
5. Message Authors Directly
If you see an author promoting their new book on Instagram, Tiktok, Threads, or any other social media site, don’t be afraid to message them directly with an ARC request! If you are nice about it (and don’t come off as entitled), you would be surprised at how many authors will send you a copy.
The worst they can say is no! If they say no, just say thanks and move on!
I hope that this article gave you some helpful information on the world of ARCs and where to request them! One very important thing to point out: ARCs CANNOT BE SOLD. They are not for resale, and they should not be shared with anyone else. The author is trusting you with a copy of their hard work, so we should respect them by not sharing it!
