Running an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) campaign is not as simple as handing out early copies and waiting. A well-managed ARC campaign is part of a broader release strategy that can increase visibility, build anticipation, and generate early reviews. Without a proper system in place, it is easy to feel disappointed by the results.
My ARC Management service is designed to take the operational pressure off your plate while ensuring your book reaches the right readers and gets the support it deserves.
Who This Service Is For
If you are an indie author preparing for an upcoming release, especially while balancing writing with marketing, admin, and everything else, this service is built for that situation.
You might:
- Be releasing your first book and unsure where to start
- Have tried running an ARC campaign in the past and felt overwhelmed or let down
- Want a more organized system that keeps readers engaged
- Prefer to have someone manage communication, follow-ups, and tracking so you can focus on other priorities
You do not need to have an existing ARC team. Part of what I do is build that community for you.
What This Service Includes
There are two components: a once-off setup fee and a per-release campaign fee.
One-Time Setup
This includes:
- A custom Google Form for ARC sign-ups, tailored to your genre and tone
- A review submission form for ARC readers to log their reviews and promo posts
- A central Google Sheet that automatically tracks both forms and responses
These tools are reusable across future campaigns, saving you time and giving you a repeatable process.
Per-Release ARC Campaign
Every new ARC campaign includes the following:
1. Newsletter Creation & Distribution
I create a custom newsletter to promote your ARC opportunity, sent via my Substack account. My Substack list has grown organically to nearly 2,000 readers, built from prior ARC and reader team campaigns. These are engaged readers, many of whom are already familiar with my process and trust the books I recommend.
2. ARC Reader Recruitment
I recruit readers via genre-specific Facebook groups, Reddit threads, social media platforms, and my own ARC network. This includes paid and organic outreach, depending on the campaign.
3. ARC Toolkit Creation
Your ARC readers will receive a toolkit including:
- Social media graphics
- Pre-written promotional captions
- Hashtags and posting guidance
- Key book details (blurb, tropes, content warnings, release info)
4. ARC Distribution via BookFunnel
Your ARC will be distributed securely through BookFunnel. You will need to add me as a team member to your account, and I will manage the sendout and communication, including:
- Initial ARC delivery email
- Reminder email a few days later
- Release day email encouraging reviews and social shares
5. Release Day Toolkit
A separate set of graphics and captions designed for release day promotion. This makes it straightforward for ARC readers to support your book when it goes live.
6. Ongoing Support and Management
I handle reader communication, send reminders, troubleshoot issues, and keep everything on track. You will also be added to a shared ToDoist board so you can monitor progress in real time.
Timeline Breakdown
Timing is one of the most important factors in a successful ARC campaign. A typical timeline:
- 6 weeks before release: Begin promoting ARC signups, collect reader applications
- 2 weeks before release: Distribute the ARC via BookFunnel and send the ARC Toolkit
- Release Day: Send final email and Release Day toolkit
This structure keeps your book visible to readers who are managing multiple ARC commitments. Sending too early can lead to readers losing track of key details. Sending too late leaves no time for reviews. The two-week window is my sweet spot for reader engagement.
My Approach to ARC Campaigns
ARC readers are not obligated promoters. They are readers who want to help, but who are often managing several ARC commitments at once. I approach ARC management with that reality in mind, respecting both you as the author and the readers giving their time.
I set expectations clearly and follow up without pressure. If a reader cannot finish the book or is not connecting with it, that is acceptable. I do not remove readers from future campaigns for being honest or human. The goal is to build a sustainable ARC community, not to enforce unrealistic output.
I also help you calibrate your own expectations. A 10% review return rate is considered successful in this industry. If 100 people receive your ARC, 10 reviews is a genuine win.
Getting Started
To begin, fill out the form here: https://literaryinspired.com/arc-management/#arc-signup
Once payment is received via PayPal, I will set up your forms and create a shared Google Drive folder where you can upload your book cover and any optional assets (quotes, mockups, trope lists, content warnings). If you are unsure what to include, I will guide you through it.
You will also need to add me to your BookFunnel account so I can distribute the ARC and schedule campaign emails.
From there, I will send you a personalized timeline and grant you access to your project board in ToDoist.
If you would like to see an example of a past campaign (toolkits, emails, or signup forms), I am happy to provide that privately on request.
FAQs
How soon should I book?
Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before your release date. This allows enough time for planning, recruitment, and asset creation.
Can I use this service for backlist titles?
Yes. ARC campaigns are not just for new releases. They can be a useful tool for repackages, boxsets, or relaunches.
Do you guarantee reviews?
No, and any service that makes that promise should be approached with caution. Reviews are earned, not bought. I provide the structure and support to improve your chances.
What if a reader does not finish the book?
They are not penalized. Building a sustainable ARC community means not enforcing unrealistic expectations.
Do I need BookFunnel?
Yes. BookFunnel is required for secure ARC distribution and automated email communication. You will need a paid plan and to add me as a team member.
Can I be involved in recruitment or reader communication?
If you would like to be more hands-on, I can loop you in. Otherwise, I manage the full campaign and keep you updated throughout.
If you are ready to build or grow your ARC team with a structured, repeatable process, reach out at [email protected].