That's okay, you’re allowed to. Not every book is for every brain.
If you do review, be honest without being cruel — focus on what didn’t work for you and why. If you can find something positive to say, mention it.
If you DNF, it’s totally okay to skip reviewing (or send the author a quick private note if you want).
Ideally during launch week (or within the first 1–2 weeks after release).
That’s when reviews help the most. If life happens, no guilt — just do your best, Darling.
Common places: Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and sometimes social media (Instagram / TikTok / Facebook).
The author will usually tell you which ones matter most for their launch.
Please don’t. ARC files are for the approved reader only.
If your friend wants in, send them the sign-up link — easy.
That said, reviews are the whole point of an ARC team — so only sign up if you think you’ll be able to leave an honest review around launch week. If life happens, it happens.
DNF is allowed. Sometimes the vibes just aren’t vibing.
If you DNF, you can simply not review — or, if you feel comfortable, send the author a quick private note (one sentence is fine). No drama, no guilt.
Usually no for Amazon — Amazon generally doesn’t allow reviews before release.
Other platforms (like Goodreads) may be more flexible, but the safest rule is: post during launch week unless the author says otherwise.
Yes. Most authors deliver ARCs through BookFunnel (or similar), which lets you Send to Kindle in a couple of clicks.
If you can read on a phone/tablet too, that’s a handy backup when Kindle decides to be… Kindle.
Short quotes are usually fine (and appreciated!) as long as you credit the author/book.
Just don’t upload the file, don’t post full chapters, and don’t share the download link.
You'll have to give up your first born. I'm kidding!
Life happens. If you’re going to miss the review window, a quick heads-up to the author is kind — but not mandatory.
If you can still review later, great. If not, no shame.
Honest, specific, and fair. A couple of sentences is enough, usually better. You got the book for free but that does not obligate you to like it.
Mention what you liked, what didn’t work for you, and who the book is (or isn’t) for. Critique the book, not the author.
Start small: 10–30 is plenty for your first round.
Expect only 50–70%
Common sweet spot: 2–4 weeks before release.
Close enough that readers remember it, far enough that they can actually finish it. If your book is long, lean toward 4 weeks.
EPUB is the default (works on most devices and with BookFunnel).
Optional extras: PDF (some readers prefer it) and MOBI (mostly outdated now). If you only choose one, choose EPUB.
BookFunnel (or similar) because it handles device issues and “help, my Kindle is possessed” emails.
If you deliver manually, expect more admin and troubleshooting.
No. Insisting on reviews is not permitted.
What you can do is set clear expectations: “If you sign up, please leave an honest review around launch week if you’re able.” Keep it friendly, not threatening.
Careful here. It can come across as manipulative, and some platforms don’t love it.
Safer approach: encourage honesty, and invite DNFs or critical feedback privately if they’d rather not post publicly.
Nothing fancy. One line is enough:
“By accepting this ARC, you agree not to share, upload, or distribute the file.”
Add it as a required checkbox on the form and you’re covered for normal purposes.
A simple, low-stress version:
4–2 weeks before: recruit + accept readers
2–3 weeks before: send ARC
Launch week: send one gentle reminder + review links
1 week after: optional “thank you” (or just move on with your life)
