Life doesn’t always cooperate with reading schedules. When deadlines pile up and you can’t complete an ARC on time, here’s how to handle it professionally.
We all start ARCs with the best intentions. You’re excited, ready to dive in, and committed to supporting the author—until life gets in the way. Whether it’s work, burnout, family responsibilities, or just being stretched too thin, sometimes you can’t finish on time.
That’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s professionalism.
Communicate as Early as Possible
The moment you realize you might not make the deadline, reach out. You don’t need to over-explain. A short, respectful message makes all the difference.
“Hey! I’ve had some unexpected commitments come up and won’t be able to finish by the deadline. I’d still love to review—would [new date] work for you?”
Most authors understand. They’d rather hear from you early than be left guessing.
Ask About Flexibility
Many authors build buffer time into their ARC schedules. You’re not asking for a favor—you’re starting a conversation. Asking about flexibility shows that you respect the timeline and want to be part of the launch, even if it’s on a slightly different timeline than planned.
Keep it simple:
“Is there any flexibility on the review deadline?”
The worst they can say is no, and even then, your professionalism will be remembered.
Support in Other Ways
If you genuinely can’t finish the ARC, that doesn’t mean you can’t still support the book. There are other ways to show up:
Share the author’s release day posts or preorder links
Boost visibility by commenting or sharing their content
Let them know you’re still interested in supporting future releases
Every bit of support matters.
Don’t Ghost
This is the big one. Don’t disappear. Ghosting an author or coordinator is what damages trust—not delays. A quick check-in takes far less energy than you think, and it helps maintain your spot for future opportunities.
FAQ
How soon should I let an author know I might miss the deadline?
As soon as you realize it. Earlier is always better, even if it’s just a heads-up.
What if I feel too embarrassed to reach out?
That’s a common feeling, but remember: authors are people too. Most are understanding and appreciate honesty far more than silence.
Can I still be on ARC teams if I’ve had to delay reviews?
Yes. What matters most is how you handle the delay, not the delay itself. Respectful communication keeps you in good standing.
Be sure to come back next week for the next episode of ARC Dive.
Have a burning question about ARCs—whether you’re an author or a reader? Pop it in the comments, and it might just become the next ARC Dive post.