In today's rapidly changing publishing landscape, many indie authors are questioning whether traditional Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) programs still serve their intended purpose. As an author and industry observer, I've noticed several concerning trends that suggest it might be time for a significant overhaul of this long-standing practice. Photo by Vincenzo Malagoli: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-reading-book-and-holding-coffee-1550648/ Why the Current ARC Model Is Showing Cracks The traditional approach of distributing free copies to readers in exchange for honest reviews has been a cornerstone of indie publishing strategy. However, numerous issues have emerged that challenge its effectiveness: 1. Diminishing Returns on Investment Many authors now distribute more ARCs than they sell books during launch week. When your marketing strategy costs more than it generates, it deserves scrutiny. 2. Eroding Trust in Reviews The general public's trust in online reviews h...