You have probably seen a reviewer thank an author "for the eARC". The term is common in book communities, and it is not often explained.
The Definition
ARC stands for advance review copy. An eARC is the digital version.
An author or publisher gives the book to a reader, usually before or around the release date. In return, the reader is asked for an honest review. The reader does not pay for the copy.
An eARC is review-copy access. It is not a purchase.
Why Authors Send eARCs
A new book starts with no reviews, and reviews help readers decide what to read next.
Review copies help with that. If a group of readers has the book early, their reviews can be ready when the book goes on sale.
What "Honest Review" Means
An honest review is the reader's real opinion. An author cannot ask for a positive review as a condition of the copy.
On Sọna, a request for a copy never guarantees approval, and a reader who receives a copy is never required to write a positive review.
The Usual Problems With Review Copies
- Files get forwarded. A PDF sent by email can be passed on to anyone.
- Follow-up is hard. The author often cannot tell who opened the book.
- Review platforms can be costly. We compare the options in NetGalley Alternatives for Independent Authors.
How eARCs Work on Sọna
For authors and publishers. You create a campaign for your book. It can be linked to a book in the store, or it can be a standalone campaign for a book that is not on sale yet. You can launch with the cover first and add the file later.
You then choose who gets a copy.
- Invite Reviewers sends access to the readers you choose. Each new recipient uses one credit.
- Discovery lists the campaign publicly so that reviewers can request it. Discovery is free for the first 90-day window for each book.
The copy is tied to the reader's Sọna account and opens in the Sọna Reader apps. You decide whether it can also open in the protected browser reader. There is no raw file download.
For reviewers. You request a copy or accept an invitation, read the book in the app, and leave your review. Some campaigns also let you send the book to your Kindle.
How to Take Part
- Authors: read How eARC Campaigns Work on Sọna and Where to Get Book Reviewers for Your Book Launch.
- Readers: read Become a Sọna eARC Reviewer and How to Claim a Gift Copy or eARC on Sọna.
Quick Answers
Is an eARC free for the reader? Yes. The reader does not pay for a review copy.
Can a picture book or comic have an eARC? Yes. Sọna supports fixed-layout PDF campaigns as well as EPUB and DOCX.
