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Are you a book lover who wants to read new releases before they hit the shelves? Requesting ARCs (Advanced Reader Copies) from publishers is a fantastic way to gain early access to books and share your reviews with fellow readers.
I am not an expert by any means, and I am denied on Netgalley often, but I have had success requesting ARCs from publishers.
Whether you’re a book blogger, Bookstagrammer, or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the process of requesting ARCs and increasing your chances of approval!
What Are ARCs and Why Do Publishers Distribute Them?
ARCs are early copies of books that publishers send out before a book’s official release. They distribute them to reviewers, booksellers, librarians, and influencers to generate buzz and encourage pre-orders. These copies can be physical books or digital editions.
If you love discovering books before they hit the market and sharing your thoughts with a reading community, requesting ARCs is a great opportunity!
Step 1: Build Your Reviewing Platform
Before requesting ARCs, it’s important to establish a presence in the book community. Publishers want to send ARCs to readers who will help promote the book. Consider starting with one or more of the following:
- Book Blog – Create a website dedicated to book reviews and recommendations.
- Bookstagram – Share visually appealing book-related content on Instagram.
- BookTube – Discuss books through video content on YouTube.
- BookTok – Join the TikTok community that loves trending book content.
- Goodreads & Amazon Reviews – Regularly review books on these platforms to establish credibility.
Even if you’re just starting out, consistency and engagement are key!
Related: How To Start a Book Blog
Step 2: Grow Your Audience and Engagement
You don’t need thousands of followers to request ARCs, but having an engaged audience helps. Publishers look for active reviewers who:
- Post reviews consistently
- Engage with their audience through comments and discussions
- Share book-related content that reaches readers interested in the genre
If you’re a smaller creator, focus on high-quality content and meaningful engagement rather than numbers alone.
Step 3: Research Publisher Contact Information
Each publisher has different guidelines for requesting ARCs. Visit their website and look under sections like Publicity, Marketing, or Press to find submission forms or contact emails. Some major publishers have dedicated ARC request forms, while smaller publishers may prefer direct email requests.
Many publishers have also started influencer programs. They open applications throughout the year, so follow them on social media to find out when you can apply!
Step 4: Use ARC Request Platforms
Many publishers distribute ARCs through platforms designed to connect books with reviewers. Sign up for these sites to request digital ARCs easily:
NetGalley – One of the most popular platforms for digital ARCs.
Edelweiss+ – Similar to NetGalley, but often used by librarians and booksellers.
LibraryThing Early Reviewers – A great place to get ARCs if you’re building your review profile.
I have had the most success with NetGalley. This is the easiest platform to navigate and the most accessible for influencers and reviewers! If you would be interested in a guide to requesting ARCs on Netgalley, let me know in the comments!
Step 5: How to Write a Professional ARC Request Email
If you’re reaching out directly to a publisher, sending a well-crafted request email is crucial. Here’s a sample template:
Subject: ARC Request for [Book Title] by [Author Name]
Dear [Publicist’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! My name is [Your Name], and I am a [book blogger, Bookstagrammer, BookTuber, etc.] with [mention your platform and follower count]. I am interested in receiving an ARC of [Book Title] by [Author Name] for review.
I review books on [your platforms], where I engage with [briefly describe your audience, such as thriller lovers, YA fans, etc.]. You can find my recent reviews here: [provide links to your platforms or sample reviews].
I would love the opportunity to read and review [Book Title] ahead of its release. If available, I would be happy to share my review on [list places where you’ll post the review]. Please let me know if there’s a review copy available.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Social Media Links]
Step 6: Follow Up If Necessary
If you don’t hear back after a couple of weeks, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email. However, keep in mind that not all ARC requests will be approved, and that’s perfectly normal! Most of the time, you will not get an email response-the book will just arrive if you were approved! Keep requesting and growing your presence.
Step 7: Review and Promote the ARC
Once you receive an ARC, it’s your responsibility to review it in a timely manner. Here’s how you can maximize your impact:
- Share your review on multiple platforms (blog, social media, Goodreads, Amazon, etc.).
- Post about the book before, during, and after reading (cover reveals, reading updates, review posts).
- Tag the publisher and author to increase engagement.
Step 8: Be Honest and Professional
Your ARC reviews should always be honest and thoughtful. If you didn’t enjoy the book, explain why in a constructive way. Publishers appreciate well-balanced feedback over overly harsh or overly promotional reviews.
And please remember-do not tag the author in a negative review!
Step 9: Keep Requesting and Building Relationships
The more you review and engage with the book community, the more publishers will take notice. Build long-term relationships with publicists and publishers by consistently providing quality reviews and interactions on social media.
Final Thoughts
Requesting ARCs can be an exciting way to read books before their release and contribute to the bookish community. By building your platform, engaging with fellow readers, and following professional request practices, you can increase your chances of receiving ARCs and growing your influence as a reviewer.
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