An ARC is an Advanced Reader’s Copy of a book. They are usually given out to readers before the book is available for sale in order to generate reviews and early buzz. Sometimes authors give out copies after the book is published in order to generate reviews. Why are reviews important to readers? In addition to reviews helping readers find books they’ll enjoy and warn them off of books they may not, reviews can also give more information that may not have been in the product description including tropes, characters, world-building, and writing style to aid in their purchasing decision. Why are reviews important to authors? Reviews generate buzz and excitement for the new release. This is important, especially in the first week of a book’s release when higher sales can translate into hitting a list like the NY Times or USA Today. Reviews also help an author’s discoverability. There