Time for the ARC
First off, what is an ARC you might wonder? An ARC is an Advanced Reader Copy that is available on a certain outlet for readers to download an e-book or receive a physical copy of the book, read, and then hopefully review your book prior to its release. Now, you might think why you would want to look into something like giving out your book for free to potential readers? How does that help your sales?
Those were a few of the same questions I had as well. Especially when I know my interested readers is small to start seeing as I am a debut author—untried, untested. The truth of the matter is that a company like NetGalley or Book Sirens and the like has a pool of readers interested in what you write, who will see your book, and may not have seen it otherwise. They are readers, like those you want to reach, and even better—they will hopefully leave reviews which then draws more attention towards your book. Some might even share their experience on social media. All things that promote and draw in more potential readers.
The first thing I did was begin the research of potential companies that promote ARC’s. There were a few more beyond the common NetGalley that you may hear of prominently. Look at pricing, their reach, how many books they promote…even maybe sign up and take a chance with a few ARC’s yourself. See if you like, as a reader, the program. There is a bit more to being an ARC reader than making a request, especially when it comes to a Big 5 publisher and the like, but in the case of self-publishing, it might be a bit easier to find other like minded writers’ books to read. This gives you an idea of the experience as an ARC reader before you ask for someone else to read your book from that particular company.
After you choose, keep in mind that you will want a well edited book to promote. You also must decide if you will want to share an e-book or a physical copy of the book. Don’t think that just because you don’t share a physical copy of your book that you’re out of the running. The next big things to consider is that you are going to want to ensure your book is formatted correctly and has a cover. All of those things will be a necessity to ensure your book looks as professional as possible.
Could there technically be a few errors still in the book? Yes! I mean we are human. Perfectionism is impossible. And after you and your editor read this book more times than you could count, there’s a chance a typo is still there. I mean, even traditionally published books still have errors. But the important thing to note is I said a few. We aren’t talking every other page, but more like five or six. And how would you find out about this? Well keep on reading.
Once everything is submitted and your book is live, the company you signed up with should be promoting your book to potential readers through different avenues. Which is great for you. Also, most will include a link for you to share with potential readers you already have a connection with. Those who have already shown interest in your book, and members of your street team as well. Book Sirens, for example, will not charge readers you invited to download your book. So you know those errors I mentioned above? These readers you invited, who you might have a closer connection to, might be so inclined to point out and share those mistakes with you. Something you can now fix prior to the final upload of your book. Hint: Use this opportunity to gain followers by offering the ARC link to those who sign up for your newsletter. Another way to keep people in the loop on what is happening in your writing and book world that is highly beneficial.
An important thing to note! I’ve learned this the hard way, so want to ensure you’re not in the same boat as I am and completely confused. If an individual downloads you book on an IOS device under the Kindle app, there is a very good chance that the formatting may be incorrect. In my experience, it downloaded with everything right justified and the font style changed completely. I’ve contacted Atticus (my formatting software company) to see if there is anything I could do from their side to alleviate this problem but unfortunately it is not something they are able to fix since it is formatted correctly in their program. The version of software and files on an IOS device through Kindle, are “behind” when it comes to new e-pub documents. (Or something along those lines.) I have also contacted Amazon but have not yet received a response. Once I do, I will see if there is anything they recommend to share and update this post.
In closing, if you choose to go with an ARC company, do that pesky research. It is another cost to your budget and you want to make sure that your book is going to benefit from the experience. Hope this was helpful!
