Question 1

What is an ARC Reader Team?

Accepted Answer

An ARC reader team is a group of advanced readers who receive an early copy of the book before it goes on sale.

Question 2

What is the purpose of ARC readers?

Accepted Answer

Authors seek ARC readers to provide reviews early in the sales process. By providing free copies of a book to ARC readers who leave reviews, authors are able to show that people have actually read the book.

Question 3

What kind of feedback do ARC readers give?

Accepted Answer

ARC readers are primarily asked to provide an honest review of a book in terms of enjoyment, readability, subject matter, etc. ARC readers are not expected to double as proofreaders or editors. I've already worked hard to make sure this book is ready for publication, but there could be some typos. There may also still be minor tweaks to the final formatting. However, I appreciate all feedback, and if you want to message me about an error or an issue you think is important, please feel free to email me at emma@ofwomenandwolves.com.

Question 4

Can I get paid for being an ARC reader?

Accepted Answer

No. Paying for Amazon reviews is unethical and violates my contract with Kindle Direct Publishing. There is no compensation for participating in my ARC reader team, and I do not want to influence your reviews in any way. I ask that you leave a review with Amazon on or as close to my launch date as possible, but you can say anything you want about the book, even if you don't like it.

Question 5

Do I have to leave a review?

Accepted Answer

No. You are not obligated to leave a review. The ARC copy of the book is yours to keep free of charge, regardless of whether you provide private feedback about the book or leave a public review. I hope you will leave a review, but if you can't or decide you don't want to, that's OK.

Question 6

Do I have to leave a positive review?

Accepted Answer

No. The most important thing is that you leave an honest review. I know that not everyone will like my book. That's OK. While I hope my book receives lots of glowing reviews, even neutral or negative reviews can help a new reader decide whether they want to purchase it. I won't police my reviews or harass any ARC readers for what they write in their reviews.

Question 7

Where should I leave a review?

Accepted Answer

My main goal for the Of Women and Wolves ARC team is to obtain reviews on Amazon because, for the first 90 days, my plan is to sell exclusively through KDP. However, Amazon reviews are not required. I appreciate reviews wherever they are posted. Other places where you could post reviews include Goodreads, StoryGraph, BookBub, FetLife, and your personal social media accounts. You may also submit a review to be included on my website if you are willing. I appreciate your effort, wherever you post a review.

Question 8

How do I get my ARC copy?

Accepted Answer

I'm using BookFunnel to distribute advanced copies to my ARC team because they provide digital watermarks and support for readers if there's a technical problem with the download. You can click this link to claim your ARC copy now.

Question 9

Why do I have to give my email address?

Accepted Answer

I collect email addresses from the ARC team to share updates on the upcoming publication schedule, coordinate reviews, and send a reminder to post your review once the book goes live. I will not spam you with emails or share your information with anyone else. Once the ARC process is over and the book is on sale, I will send you a follow-up email thanking you for your time and support. If you are interested in receiving additional periodic emails about this book or future titles, you can sign up to be included in my email list.

Question 10

When do I leave my review?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, ARC team members will leave their review on the first day the book goes live. I do not have a final target date for that yet. This is the first time I'm publishing a book, and I'm learning as I go. My latest target date is November 10th, but I hope to publish sooner if possible. I will keep you updated on changes in the publication schedule.

Question 11

Can I share my ARC copy with my friends?

Accepted Answer

You should not share your ARC copy with anyone. It is meant for you and only you. BookFunnel creates a digital watermark to help track advanced copies and limit unauthorized file sharing. If you have a friend who you think would also like a free copy of the book, you can simply share the ARC link, and they can download their own copy.

ARC Reader Info

Frequently Asked Questions