Guides for indie authors and curious readers
Practical, rule-aware articles on honest reviews, ARC readers, book launches and book marketing. New articles every Monday and Thursday.
How to Become an ARC Reader (and Keep Getting Free Advance Copies)
Love reading books before everyone else? Here is how readers become ARC readers, where to sign up, and what to do so authors invite you back.
Latest articles
ARC Reader Application Form: Free Template and Questions to Ask
A copy-and-paste ARC reader application form for indie authors: what to ask, what to leave out, and how to keep the whole process honest and voluntary.
Goodreads for Authors: How to Use It Within the Rules
Goodreads is where many readers decide what to read next. Learn how to set up your author profile, use giveaways, and stay on the right side of the rules.
How to Write a Book Blurb That Converts (With a Simple Formula)
Your blurb has a few seconds to turn a browsing reader into a buyer. Here is a simple structure, examples and a checklist you can use today.
ARC Readers: How to Find Them for Your Indie Book
What ARC readers are, where indie authors find them, and how to run an advance reader copy program that stays within the rules.
How to Get Book Reviews: 10 Compliant Ways in 2026
Ten rule-abiding ways indie authors can reach readers who may leave honest book reviews in 2026.
Amazon Review Policy for Authors: What Is Allowed and What Is Not
A plain-language overview of Amazon review guidelines for authors: what is generally allowed, what is not, and how to stay safe.
How to Ask Readers for a Review: Email Templates for Authors
Copy-ready email templates for asking readers and book bloggers for honest reviews, written to respect Amazon and FTC rules.
Amazon Review Crackdown 2025: The Complete Guide for Self-Published Authors
Amazon blocked 275M+ fake reviews in 2024. Learn about new FTC penalties up to $51,744 per violation, how detection works, and 7 legitimate strategies to get authentic book reviews for free.