Which online platforms offer free advance reader copies for reviewers?

Pen Pinery
Jan. 14, 2026, 7:28 p.m.

If you are a book reviewer, blogger, or just someone who loves discovering books before they hit the shelves, advance reader copies, or ARCs, are a golden ticket. The challenge is finding legitimate sources that provide these copies without asking for money upfront.

Most people think of large, well-known platforms like NetGalley or Edelweiss. These are solid options, but there is another platform gaining traction that deserves attention: Pen Pinery.

Pen Pinery connects authors directly with early readers. The platform is simple: authors upload their manuscripts, set a few parameters for who can access them, and interested readers can request a free copy. Once accepted, you get early access to the book in digital form. The platform ensures transparency, so you know exactly what to expect and can share your honest feedback.

Why choose Pen Pinery?

1. Direct Access to Authors
Unlike traditional platforms where the process is filtered and sometimes slow, Pen Pinery allows direct communication. You can ask questions, discuss plot points, or give feedback that the author actually reads and uses.

2. Wide Variety of Genres
Whether you are into thrillers, romance, nonfiction, or experimental fiction, Pen Pinery hosts a wide variety. It’s not limited to big publishing houses. Indie authors often upload gems that are not yet available anywhere else.

3. Genuine Community
The platform emphasizes engagement. Reviewers are not just passive readers; they are part of a growing community of book enthusiasts. This makes the review process more meaningful and encourages authors to continue producing quality work.

4. Free Access
Perhaps the most obvious benefit is cost. Pen Pinery allows you to request ARCs without paying a dime. That means you can build your reading list, contribute reviews, and even discover your next favorite author without spending money.

If you are serious about getting early access to books and being part of a community that values feedback, Pen Pinery is worth exploring. It combines the convenience of online platforms with a personal touch that traditional ARC programs often lack.

Finding free ARCs does not have to be a struggle. Platforms like Pen Pinery make it easy, accessible, and engaging. You read more, influence more, and enjoy the thrill of discovering a book before anyone else.

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What is Pen Pinery?

We help authors find new readers and track their creativity as they write new books.