Where to Find ARC Readers
And how to turn them into powerful reviewers
Before a book ever meets its first paying reader, it needs something far more crucial: social proof.
Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) are how authors gather early feedback, generate buzz, and build the first wave of reviews that push a book into visibility.
But finding the right ARC readers — reliable ones who won’t ghost you — isn’t always simple. Thankfully, there are services and platforms built specifically to help authors connect with engaged early readers who actually leave reviews.
Below is a guide to the most trusted ARC-reader services, what they offer, what they cost, and how to use them effectively.
Why ARC Services Matter
ARC teams used to form organically — friends, newsletter subscribers, and polite “would you like to read my book?” pleas. Now, with thousands of books being released every day, authors need dependable systems.
ARC services help you:
Reach readers who want to read and review books
Target genre-specific audiences instead of begging strangers
Keep track of downloads, review links, and follow-through
Collect reviews ethically and without violating retailer policies
The goal isn’t to chase five-star reviews. The goal is a healthy spread of genuine reader reactions that make your book look alive.
Top ARC Services for Authors
1. BookSirens
BookSirens is one of the most respected ARC platforms, especially for indie authors.
Why authors love it:
Readers are vetted for review reliability
You only pay when someone downloads your book
Genre targeting is excellent — romance, fantasy, thriller, YA, sci-fi, and more
Best for: Authors who want a steady trickle of reliable reviews.
Pricing: Around $10/title + a fee per reviewer who downloads.
Pro tip: Craft a compelling landing blurb. BookSirens readers judge quickly — give them mood, voice, and stakes in 3–4 crisp lines.
2. BookSprout
BookSprout offers a simple, user-friendly platform for distributing ARCs.
Why authors use it:
Readers commit to reviewing within a set timeframe
Dashboard tracks who has and hasn’t reviewed
Strong compliance features for Amazon’s review rules
Best for: New authors building a small but accountable ARC team.
Pricing: Free tier available; paid tiers offer additional reach.
Pro tip: Set clear deadlines and use the automated reminders — BookSprout’s system helps keep readers on track.
3. NetGalley
This is the big leagues of ARC distribution: librarians, booksellers, educators, bloggers, and professional reviewers.
Why it stands out:
Massive readership and industry reach
Excellent for wide release strategies
Can lead to bookstore requests and traditional-style buzz
Best for: Authors with strong marketing plans, hybrid authors, or anyone seeking industry-level exposure.
Pricing: Higher than other services ($450+ per title through NetGalley directly), but you can use co-ops (more below) for lower pricing.
Pro tip: NetGalley reviewers are picky. Your cover, blurb, and interior formatting must look professional.
4. NetGalley Co-ops (Budget-Friendly Access)
If the full NetGalley price tag stings, co-ops offer access at a fraction of the cost.
Popular Co-ops:
Victory Editing
BooksGoSocial
Cover Mint
Barbour Publishing monthly group promotions
Why authors choose co-ops:
You get your book listed on NetGalley
Cost is significantly lower ($45–$100 range)
Same pool of reviewers; same industry access
Best for: Indie authors who want NetGalley exposure without the full cost.
Pro tip: Join early — co-ops fill quickly, especially ahead of fall release season.
5. Hidden Gem Books
A reliable, results-oriented ARC service.
Why it’s a fan favorite:
High follow-through rate
Strong genre matching
Reviews appear quickly
Best for: Authors who need reviews fast and want a dependable system.
Pricing: Approximately $20–$30 per campaign + fee per reviewer.
Pro tip: Choose the “verified reviewer” option if you want a better guarantee that reviews will be posted.
6. Pubby (With a Caution)
Pubby is popular because it promises easy Amazon reviews — but its structure has raised ethical questions.
How it works:
Authors review books to earn points. Points are then used to get other authors to review your book.
Potential downsides:
Reviews often lack depth or genre familiarity
Some reviewers skim instead of reading fully
Amazon sometimes deletes Pubby-origin reviews
Best for: Authors who need filler reviews — not anchor reviews.
Use with caution and avoid making Pubby your primary review source.
Here are some free and better ARC review alternatives
1. Your Newsletter List
A small, loyal list will outperform a crowd of strangers.
Why it works:
Newsletter readers already care about you. They want your success. They’re invested.
Tip: Keep your ARC team separate from your full list using a form with:
What genres do they enjoy
Where they leave reviews
Whether they want ebook or print
Reward consistency — send early chapters, deleted scenes, or character art.
2. Social Media ARC Calls (X, Instagram, TikTok)
A simple post — “Looking for ARC readers for my upcoming [genre] novel” — can bring in passionate early fans.
Tip:
Use genre hashtags like:
#Bookstagram
#BookTok
#AmReading
#ThrillerReaders
#RomanceReads
#IndieAuthor
Readers love being part of a book launch from the inside.
3. Discord, Facebook Groups, and Genre Communities
Thriller readers, romance ARC groups, fantasy hubs, LGBTQ+ book circles — if a genre exists, so does a community ready for ARCs.
Examples:
Indie Fantasy Addicts
Romance ARC Teams
YA Book Clubs on Facebook
BookTube and BookTok reviewers’ Discords
These readers often leave thoughtful, detailed reviews.
How to Turn ARC Readers Into Reviewers
Finding readers is one thing. Getting reviews is another.
Here’s what sets successful ARC campaigns apart:
1. Set Clear Expectations
Let readers know:
Where would you like reviews posted
Your ideal review window
That honesty is welcome (not only praise)
2. Make It Easy
Send:
Direct links to review pages
A reminder of their reading format
A short thanks with zero pressure
Ease = follow-through
3. Communicate Like a Human
A warm message acknowledging their time goes a long way. Readers show up more for authors who appreciate — with specificity, not guilt.
4. Keep the Relationship Alive
ARC readers can become:
Superfans
Beta readers
Street-team members
Repeat reviewers for future launches
The best ARC teams grow over time.
ARC services are powerful tools, but they’re only part of the equation.
What truly drives early reviews is connection — your voice, your gratitude, and the genuine excitement you build around your story.
Whether you choose BookSirens for reliability, NetGalley for exposure, or your own newsletter for intimacy, the key is to start early, stay consistent, and treat your ARC team like partners in your book’s journey.