Building Your ARC Team: What Actually Works?
When I launched my first novel, The Fatherhood Mandate, I did what most indie authors do. I sent advance copies to my friends. They were supportive, enthusiastic, and left thoughtful reviews. It felt like I had real momentum.
Then I published The Motherhood Mandate.
Silence.
The same friends didn’t show up the second time, and I was stuck with no early reviews and no buzz. That’s when I realized I couldn’t build my writing career on favors. I needed a system that could grow with me. Something consistent. Something sustainable.
So I started researching ARC platforms. Some were helpful. Some were a waste of time. It took a while, but I figured out which tools actually connect you with real readers and which ones just look good on paper. Now, ARC platforms are a reliable part of my book launch plan, though not the only one.
So, what is an ARC?
ARC stands for Advanced Reader Copy. It’s a pre-release version of your book, usually a PDF or ePub, that you share with readers in exchange for honest reviews. ARC platforms help you get these early copies into the right hands.
Some have built-in communities of reviewers. Others let you manage your own ARC team or handle the tech side so your readers can download your book without calling you in a panic. These tools can save you time, stress, and missed opportunities.
They won’t fix a weak blurb or an off-genre cover, but they can help you reach real readers who want to discover new voices. And sometimes, those readers become loyal fans.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular ARC platforms, what they do well, and how to figure out which one fits your launch strategy.
BookSirens
BookSirens is a dedicated ARC platform that connects indie authors with over 30,000 registered book reviewers. Authors upload their ebook (EPUB, MOBI, or PDF), set a review deadline, and the platform promotes the book to genre-matched readers. While reviews aren’t required, readers are encouraged to leave honest feedback on Amazon, Goodreads, and other platforms. Authors can track downloads and submitted reviews through a built-in dashboard.
Best for: Affordable, reliable reviews from a large pool of readers
Pros:
Affordable for indie authors: Listing starts around $10 plus $2 per reader download. Most campaigns cost $30 to $50 for 20 readers, and there’s a free trial to test it out.
Large reader base: Over 30,000 active reviewers across genres, including bloggers and influencers. Great for reaching new readers.
Hands-off management: The platform handles review deadlines, automated reminders, and tracks who followed through. About 75% of readers leave a review.
Indie-friendly setup: You control your book’s listing, content warnings, and review targets. Approved by the Alliance of Independent Authors and compliant with Amazon’s guidelines.
Cons:
Pay-per-download model: You pay for every reader who downloads the ARC, even if they don’t review. About 25% may not follow through.
Limited promotion: BookSirens lists your book but doesn’t actively market it. Results depend on your genre and how appealing your listing is.
Ebook only: No support for physical ARCs. It’s also focused on consumer reviewers, not librarians or booksellers.
Quality requirements: Books must meet certain standards (professional cover, editing, and sometimes Goodreads reviews), which may exclude brand-new projects.
BookSprout
This ARC distribution and review management platform (with a companion mobile app) connects authors with a large community of willing reviewers. Authors can create a “review campaign” for their book on BookSprout, specifying how many ARC copies are available and setting a review deadline. Readers browse the app/website for available ARCs, claim a copy, and later submit their review links through BookSprout. The platform tracks who has reviewed and sends reminders as the deadline approaches.
Best for: Simple review tracking and ARC delivery
Pros:
Low-barrier entry: Offers both free and affordable paid plans. Great for authors just starting out.
Built-in reader base: Readers use the app to find ARCs in popular genres like romance, sci-fi, and thrillers.
Automated follow-ups: Tracks reviews, sends reminders, and enforces deadlines to encourage follow-through.
Flexible controls: Authors can set how many copies to offer and restrict future access to non-reviewers (on paid plans).
Cons:
Review enforcement is limited on free plan: You’ll need to upgrade to restrict repeat downloaders who don’t review.
Piracy concerns: No DRM unless you’re on a paid plan.
Smaller reach: Reader base is smaller than some competitors, especially outside popular genres.
StoryOrigin
This multi-tool platform for authors that includes robust ARC management features. StoryOrigin is essentially an author collaboration and distribution tool: you can send out ARCs, track reviews, manage your own review team, and join group promotions with other authors. Unlike some ARC sites, StoryOrigin doesn’t come with a built-in pool of random reviewers; instead, authors use it to invite their own readers or swap with other authors. You upload your ebook files to StoryOrigin and create a review landing page. Readers (often your newsletter subscribers or members of a group promo) can request the ARC via a link, and StoryOrigin handles delivering the file and collecting their review when done. It will track who has reviewed and even automate follow-up reminder emails. Authors can mark whether a reader fulfilled their review, helping you vet your ARC team over time.
Best for: Managing your ARC team and tracking reviews
Pros:
Comprehensive toolset: Includes ARC distribution, review tracking, newsletter swaps, group promos, universal links, and audiobook codes—ideal for multi-purpose marketing.
ARC management: Tracks who downloaded and reviewed your book, with automated follow-up emails to increase review rates.
List-building and collaboration: Join group giveaways to grow your mailing list and attract engaged ARC readers.
Flexible pricing: Free tier available, and the $10/month plan is cost-effective for frequent users. No per-book fees.
Cons:
No built-in reviewer pool: You must bring your own readers or participate in group promos to find reviewers.
Effort-based results: Your success depends on outreach, networking, and promo participation—nothing is automatic.
Steep learning curve: Full feature set takes time to navigate, especially for new users.
Limited visibility: StoryOrigin isn’t widely known to readers, so discoverability comes from other authors, not the platform itself.
BookFunnel
BookFunnel is a popular ebook delivery tool used for distributing ARCs, reader magnets, and giveaways. It’s not an ARC reader community, but a platform that ensures your files reach readers smoothly and securely.
Authors upload ebook files and generate download links, which can be shared via email or used in group promos. BookFunnel handles all tech support, reducing issues with file compatibility. It also offers watermarking and DRM-style protections, including “Certified Mail” to send locked links to specific readers.
While BookFunnel doesn’t provide reviewers, its group promos help you grow your mailing list. These readers can later be invited to join your ARC team, making it a valuable tool for long-term review strategy.
Pros:
Reliable delivery: Ebooks are sent in all formats and supported across all devices with excellent tech support.
Watermarking included: Helps deter piracy by tagging downloads.
Customizable reader experience: Add questions, download limits, and branding.
Great for large ARC teams: Easily handles high-volume campaigns or backlist delivery.
Cons:
No review tracking: Doesn’t monitor who leaves reviews or send reminders.
Not for discovery: Readers don’t browse BookFunnel to find books; you must bring your audience.
Annual subscription required: No monthly plan, which may not suit one-time users.
Prolific Works
Formerly known as InstaFreebie, this platform for distributing free ebooks, often used to grow mailing lists and share ARCs. Authors can upload a book and either share a private link or join public group giveaways to reach new readers. Readers are usually prompted to opt into the author’s newsletter, making it a strong list-building tool.
It allows unlimited downloads and is commonly used for pre-release giveaways. However, it doesn’t track or enforce reviews—you’ll need to follow up manually via email or another tool. There's no built-in review system or reader accountability.
Prolific Works delivers ebooks in multiple formats and provides basic tech support. Free plans don’t include watermarking or DRM, so file sharing is harder to control. Paid plans offer more protections but are still more open than platforms like BookFunnel.
Pros:
Strong list-building tool: Readers must provide an email to download your book, helping grow your mailing list. Group giveaways increase exposure and attract new potential ARC readers.
Unlimited downloads: No cap on how many copies you give away or promos you join, allowing you to reach hundreds or thousands of readers.
User-friendly experience: Easy for both readers and authors. Readers get simple download links; authors can track download numbers through a clean dashboard.
Built-in reader community: Public giveaways give your book visibility with genre readers actively browsing for free books.
Post-release value: Useful beyond launch—great for series starters, reader magnets, or list-nurturing giveaways.
Cons:
No review tracking or reminders: PW doesn’t monitor who reviews or follow up with readers. You must handle all review follow-up manually.
Low reader commitment: Many downloaders never read or review. Expect low conversion unless you nurture your list.
Less cost-effective for light use: Monthly plans ($20–$50) add up if you’re only sending occasional ARCs. Better suited to frequent campaigns.
Unqualified leads: Freebie seekers may not match your genre or engage with your emails. You’ll need to curate your list post-campaign.
Feature overlap with other tools: If you use BookFunnel, PW may feel redundant. PW's community is a plus, but lacks some advanced delivery or security features.
NetGalley
NetGalley is the leading digital ARC platform used by publishers and authors to reach reviewers, librarians, booksellers, educators, and media professionals. Authors upload a digital ARC and approve requests from readers, who can then download the book via Kindle or the NetGalley app. The platform encourages reviews through a built-in feedback system, where each reviewer has a visible feedback ratio to help authors assess reliability.
While NetGalley offers wide exposure, it comes at a high cost—direct listings for self-published authors typically range from $350 to $599 for three to six months. To reduce costs, many indie authors join co-ops run by services like Xpresso Book Tours, Victory Editing, or the Independent Book Publishers Association. These co-ops offer access to the platform at a much lower rate, typically $50 to $75 for a one-month listing.
NetGalley doesn't guarantee reviews, but most users leave at least a rating or short review. Authors can view all feedback in a dashboard and use quotes for marketing. The platform also provides secure file delivery and basic review reminders, but it doesn’t support mailing list growth or personal engagement with readers. It's ideal for visibility and professional credibility, especially when paired with other tools for outreach and follow-up.
Pros:
Unmatched reach: Access to a vast network of reviewers, librarians, booksellers, educators, and media professionals.
High review volume: Well-presented titles can receive 100+ reviews, especially if the cover, genre, and blurb are strong.
Industry influence: Librarians and bookstore buyers often use NetGalley to discover books for purchase or recommendation.
Approval control: Authors can accept or reject requests, set auto-approve lists, and track reader activity and feedback ratios.
Marketing benefits: "Available on NetGalley" adds professional credibility; you can use review pull quotes in promotions.
External sharing: Widget links allow you to grant access to bloggers, influencers, or reviewers outside the platform.
Cons:
Expensive: Solo listings cost $350–$599. Even co-op access usually runs $50–$100 per month.
Mixed review quality: Not all reviewers are your target audience, and some may leave harsh or brief feedback.
No guaranteed reviews: Many download but don’t review; feedback rates average around 50–70%.
Time-limited exposure: Listings expire after 1–6 months. Once archived, discoverability ends unless re-listed.
Admin workload: Requires setup, metadata input, approval management, and ongoing coordination (especially via co-ops).
Industry-visible stats: Feedback ratios and average ratings are visible to publishing professionals, which can impact perception.
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems is a paid ARC service with a reputation for high review rates and strong genre targeting. Authors schedule a release window, and the platform sends their ARC to a segment of readers who’ve opted into that genre. Hidden Gems manages delivery and follow-up, and authors typically see that around 80% of ARC recipients leave a review.
The service monitors reader behavior and removes those who consistently fail to review. Authors don’t receive direct access to reader data, but they get a report showing how many copies were claimed. If fewer readers sign up than expected, you only pay for those who opted in. Reviews are generally posted on Amazon, with optional cross-posts to Goodreads or BookBub.
Pros:
High review rate: Around 80% of ARC recipients leave Amazon reviews, making it one of the most effective ARC services.
Credible, genre-matched reviews: Reviewers are fans of your genre and provide thoughtful, honest feedback—positive when deserved, critical when needed.
Hands-off process: Hidden Gems handles ARC delivery, follow-ups, and reminders. Authors just submit the files and schedule.
Strong genre targeting: Readers are selected by genre, improving the chances of compatibility and quality reviews.
Fair pricing model: You only pay for the number of readers who sign up, and extra readers may be included at no cost. Caps ensure you don’t overpay.
Cons:
Limited availability: Scheduling often requires booking months in advance, which can be difficult for last-minute campaigns.
Higher upfront cost: Large campaigns can cost $300–$400, making it less accessible for authors on a tight budget.
Lack of transparency: No real-time dashboard or reviewer contact info; authors must wait for results and check review sites manually.
Amazon-focused: Most reviews are for Amazon. Limited value for building buzz on blogs, social media, or alternative platforms.
Not a discovery tool: Hidden Gems doesn’t grow your audience or email list. It delivers reviews, not long-term visibility.
Reedsy Discovery
This paid platform that helps indie authors showcase new books to a niche community of readers. For a $50 submission fee, your book is listed on the site and, if selected, reviewed by one of Reedsy’s vetted reviewers. This editorial-style review goes live on your chosen launch date and is featured alongside your book’s listing, where readers can preview the first chapter, leave comments, and upvote titles they enjoy.
While not a traditional ARC platform, Reedsy Discovery offers exposure through its catalog, weekly newsletter, and upvote system. Readers can download your book after the review is posted, potentially leaving comments or reviews on Reedsy or external sites. However, the platform doesn’t send reminders or track Amazon/Goodreads reviews. The main benefit is the editorial review and long-term visibility on a curated indie book platform.
Pros:
Professional review: For $50, you receive a detailed editorial-style review from a vetted reviewer—great for use on your Amazon page, cover, or website.
Indie-focused audience: Readers on the platform are specifically interested in self-published books and may leave reviews or tips if they enjoy your work.
One-time, low cost: Flat fee with no per-reader charges. Your book remains listed indefinitely with no hidden fees.
Ongoing visibility: Books stay discoverable long after launch. Top-rated titles may be featured in curated sections.
Reader interaction: Readers can leave comments, upvote your book, and offer useful feedback even if they don’t leave formal reviews.
Cons:
Not built for Amazon reviews: Only the Discovery review is guaranteed. Reader reviews on Amazon/Goodreads are rare and not prompted.
No control over review tone: Reviews are honest and may include criticism. A lukewarm or negative review becomes your main public-facing write-up.
Small audience: Discovery’s community is relatively small, so reach is limited. Downloads and upvotes may be minimal.
Requires polished book: Best for near-final or just-published books. Rough drafts aren’t suitable, and timing is important for launch impact.
No email collection or contact: You don’t gain access to reader data, mailing lists, or direct engagement opportunities. It’s a showcase, not a list-building tool.
Book Cave
Book Cave is a free ebook distribution platform with ARC potential through its subscriber magnet program. Authors can offer a free book (ARC, sample, or reader magnet) in exchange for email signups. Book Cave’s standout feature is its content rating system, which helps attract genre- and content-aligned readers.
You can upload your book, collect email addresses, and integrate with your mailing list provider. Group promotions further increase visibility, often boosted by reader giveaways. While Book Cave’s main revenue comes from paid book deal promotions, ARC tools are currently free to use.
There’s no built-in review tracking or reminders. Authors must follow up with readers directly to request reviews. However, Book Cave handles file delivery and attracts content-aware readers, increasing the chance of positive engagement. Collected emails allow you to nurture an ARC list for future launches.
Pros:
Free and accessible: The Subscriber Magnet program currently costs nothing, making it ideal for authors testing ARC outreach without upfront investment.
Email list growth: Collects reader emails for long-term engagement. Integrates with major email platforms or exports as CSV.
Group promo reach: Group giveaways can lead to high download volume. Audience is segmented by genre and content rating for better reader alignment.
Content rating system: Attracts readers looking for specific content levels (e.g., clean romance, low violence), helping you reach highly targeted fans.
Ongoing promo potential: Participating in ARC giveaways builds awareness that can carry into paid promotions via Book Cave’s ecosystem.
Cons:
No guaranteed reviews: Downloads don’t equal reviews. Follow-up and nurturing are required to turn readers into reviewers.
Freebie-heavy audience: Some users are deal-seekers who may not read or review. Review rates can be low without intentional outreach.
Lacks ARC structure: No deadlines, reminders, or enforcement. Authors must manage all communication and review requests.
Requires email engagement: To get value, you need to actively build and use your mailing list. Passive use won’t generate reviews.
Unpredictable results: Group promo performance varies based on timing, genre, and appeal. Downloads and reviews aren’t consistent or guaranteed.
Voracious Readers Only
Voracious Readers Only (VRO) connects indie authors with readers who opt in to receive free books in exchange for honest reviews. Authors begin with a free trial, 20 readers at no cost, after which VRO offers monthly paid plans to continue connecting books with interested readers. Each reader shares their email with the author, allowing direct communication and list-building.
Unlike automated ARC platforms, VRO facilitates a more personal connection: authors often email readers directly to share the book and follow up. While reviews aren’t guaranteed, many readers do leave them, and review rates of 30–40% are common. VRO maintains its reader network by prioritizing those who consistently engage, helping authors find not just reviewers but potential long-term fans.
Pros:
Free trial: First 20 reader connections are free, offering a risk-free way to test the service and get initial reviews.
Direct reader engagement: Authors email readers directly, allowing for personal interaction and stronger reader-author relationships.
Email list building: Readers opt in to share their contact info, helping authors grow their mailing list and long-term ARC team.
Genre targeting: VRO matches books with readers based on genre preferences, increasing the likelihood of positive, relevant reviews.
Ongoing exposure: Paid plans keep promoting your book to new readers monthly, helpful for long-term word-of-mouth or backlist titles.
Cons:
Variable review rate: Review conversion can range from 20–50%. Follow-up is author-managed and not enforced by VRO.
Diminishing returns: After initial exposure, additional months may bring fewer new readers. Best for authors with multiple titles.
Smaller reader pool: Niche genres may have limited reach within VRO’s subscriber base.
Manual effort required: Authors manage file delivery, follow-ups, and mailing list engagement. Not as hands-off as other services.
No review tracking: VRO doesn’t monitor who reviews. Authors must track results manually and accept that some readers won’t follow through.
There isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ ARC platform, and that’s a good thing. Smart indie authors choose tools based on their specific goals.
Want a quick burst of Amazon reviews? BookSirens or Hidden Gems can help. Aiming for librarian or bookseller visibility, NetGalley is the obvious choice. Focused on building a loyal list of reviewers, platforms like StoryOrigin, BookFunnel, or Book Cave make that possible. And if you want editorial exposure or reader buzz, Reedsy Discovery or BookishFirst can give you that extra edge.
The key is knowing what you want from your launch. Then, you can match the right platform to the right task. Whether you’re prepping your first release or leveling up your fifth, ARC platforms help you reach real readers who are ready to support your work. No begging. No burnout. Just smart, steady growth.
