Who are Early Readers?

Let us start here— there are different categories of readers depending on what level of draft they are reading, what you want them to focus on, and whether they are just providing feedback to you as the author, or are they sending out reviews to set the reading world ablaze for a new, fantastic read.

📕 Alpha Readers- An Alpha Reader reviews an author's rough draft for big-picture issues before it's polished. They provide feedback on fundamental elements such as plot holes, character development, consistency, and pacing. Their focus is on the "diamond in the rough," looking beyond surface-level errors to offer high-level guidance on the story's core mechanics. This helps the author rework the manuscript for subsequent drafts.

📙 Beta Readers- We also suggest keeping your Beta Readers relatively low— three to five readers. Beta readers evaluate a nearly finished manuscript, offering feedback on the overall reader experience. In contrast, alpha readers review the very early, unpolished stages of a story, yet they are looking for similar issues.

📗 ARC Readers- An ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) Reader receives a complimentary, pre-release version of a book from an author or publisher. In return, they commit to reading the book and publishing an honest review on platforms such as Amazon, Goodreads, and their social media platforms. The purpose of ARC readers is to generate initial reviews and create momentum for the book. This provides "social proof" that the book has been read by real people, which increases its visibility and encourages potential buyers. We recommend securing 25+ ARC readers.

Indie Book Bound Sisterhood has an Advanced Reader Team! These are dedicated members who have applied, signed NDAs, and are completing a one-hour training course that covers our expectations to meet the high standard of service we provide to authors. They offer detailed, high-quality feedback and early reviews, helping authors like you connect with passionate readers who truly care about your work.

Authors- If you are interested in working with our readers on your next release, please fill out this questionnaire.

Readers- Do you want to be a part of the readers’ team? Start Here

Tomorrow’s post, we will focus on what type of feedback readers are focused on when reading as an early reader

Until next time— happy writing, happy reading, happy living 💫