When I first started reading more consistently again, I was simply looking for a way to fit books back into my routine. I have a lot of books and decided it was time to determine how I was going to reasonably store them and which ones were ready for a new home.

What I did not expect was how much digital reading would completely change the way I discover books and authors.

This all first started as I connected with a local (to me) author as she was looking for a beta reader for one book and more recently, an ARC reader for another book.

While I still appreciate a physical book, I have found myself reaching for the Kindle app on my phone more often than not. It may take longer than I originally anticipated to go through all of my physical books that I have, but I am perfectly okay with that!

Whether I am waiting for an appointment, babysitting, relaxing in the evening, traveling, or simply trying to squeeze in a few chapters during a busy day, having a library in my pocket has made reading feel more accessible than ever.

As someone who enjoys traveling and has been to a few places (planned and not planned) so far in 2026, it has been very convenient to have books with me digitally! Instead of trying to pack multiple books into my suitcase or duffel bag, I can bring an entire collection with me wherever I go.

But beyond the convenience, digital reading has introduced me to something I never really explored before: ARC reading.

What Is ARC Reading?

ARC stands for Advanced Reader Copy.

Authors and publishers often share early copies of books with readers before a book is officially released. In exchange, readers provide honest feedback and reviews after reading the book.

I am very grateful to the local author that gave me the opportunity to be an ARC reader! As of this blog post, I have been a Beta Reader for two of her future books!! I am very excited to share more as those books are released — so stay tuned!

I started to explore and find ARC groups and communities shortly thereafter. Even in this short time, I have discovered authors that I would have never found. For that, I am so grateful because I can not imagine not reading their stories.

In future blog posts, some of my favorite reads that I will share will have come from readers I have discovered through ARC groups. It brings me joy to celebrate with authors as they celebrate their new releases and it is an honor to be a small part of the book’s story.

Finding New Authors

For now, I have been sticking to expressing interest in tropes and genres that are my preference. From my personal experience, there has been no shortage of opportunities to sign up for! So much so that I am in the process of building out a system so I can easily track book release dates in the event that I am selected for multiple reading opportunities.

I am looking forward to seeing what this system evolves to and to continue exploring new authors from ARC groups & opportunities.

For me, there is something exciting about finding an author before everyone else seems to be talking about them.

Building a Reading Community

Reading can often feel like a solo hobby, but ARC groups have reminded me that books can also bring people together.

I have enjoyed connecting with fellow readers, seeing what everyone else is excited about, and adding far too many books to my ever-growing TBR (To Be Read) list. It feels like I am adding several books each week!

Why Digital Reading Works for Me

One of the biggest reasons I’ve been able to read more consistently is because the barrier to starting is so much lower.

My current setup is simple:

📱 Kindle app on my phone with books coming from Amazon – paid and free!

📱 Occasional reading on my iPad through the Kindle app

📚 Digital library borrowing options (looking forward to exploring this more)

📚 ARC copies from reading groups

Having books available wherever I am makes it easier to read a chapter here and there instead of waiting until I have a large block of uninterrupted time.

Lately, I have even been considering investing in a Kindle device. The idea of having a dedicated reading device that travels easily, holds hundreds of books, and offers a distraction-free reading experience as I am intentional with my phone time is becoming more appealing the more I read.

Looking Ahead

As I continue sharing books through Homebase Reads, you will absolutely see recommendations from books I have purchased and books I have discovered through ARC opportunities.

Some will be popular titles you have probably seen all over social media. Others may be hidden gems from authors you haven’t heard of yet.

Either way, I am excited to continue exploring new stories, supporting authors, and sharing my favorite finds along the way.

If you have a favorite author, ARC group, or book recommendation, I’d love to hear about it! Share below! 📚✨

— Emily