ARC Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about applying for, receiving and reviewing T. J. Hassall ARCs.
About the Chronicles of Elisar
The Chronicles of Elisar is an interconnected dark epic fantasy series with extensive worldbuilding, political conflict, morally complicated characters, unfamiliar cultures and terminology, and dark humour.
The tone combines the political scale and different perspectives associated with Game of Thrones with the darker humour and flawed characters found in Joe Abercrombie-style fantasy.
The main series is not romance-led, no. Its central focus is the wider story, including politics, magic, conflict, justice and the consequences of the characters’ decisions.
Relationships, political marriages, intimacy and sex will appear when they belong naturally within the characters’ lives. They are part of the world rather than the purpose of the entire story.
Some future books connected to the Chronicles of Elisar may be more romance-focused because particular characters’ stories require it. Any such book will be described clearly so readers know what to expect before applying.
No. Blood of the Banshee: Complete Volume I contains Parts I–V and is the complete first book in the Chronicles of Elisar.
Before applying for Lament of the Light or later sequential books, you will need to have read or listened to either Complete Volume I or all five individual parts.
Applying for an ARC
Applications are welcome from readers around the world when a campaign is open.
You’ll need to be comfortable reading in English and feel that the book is a good match for your interests.
Some releases may have additional requirements, which I’ll always explain on the relevant application page.
If you receive an ARC, I hope you’ll enjoy reading it and consider sharing a public review afterwards.
Reviews are always welcome, whether positive, mixed or negative. There’s no obligation to leave one, and I would never expect you to give a particular rating.
ARC reading is entirely voluntary. You’re not being asked to provide editing, proofreading or promotional services, and you’re always free to stop reading if the book isn’t for you.
I generally prioritise applicants who already enjoy sharing book reviews or reading-related content publicly, as the ARC programme is intended to help readers discover the series.
If you don’t normally review books anywhere, this particular programme might not be for you.
That said, receiving an ARC never obliges anyone to publish a review.
No. I no longer offer audiobook ARCs, and there are no plans to reopen audiobook applications.
Any future ARC opportunities advertised here will be for ebooks only.
Not at all! You’re welcome to apply even if you’ve never received an ARC before.
An existing history of reading and reviewing books can be helpful when considering applications, but previous ARC experience isn’t essential.
You’re welcome to apply if your personal social media accounts are private.
However, it helps if I can see some of your reading interests, previous reviews or book-related content when considering your application.
If your main account is private, feel free to include a public book-review profile instead. I completely understand wanting to keep your personal life private!
Of course, although I’d encourage you to make sure the series is something you’ll enjoy first.
The main Chronicles of Elisar series is dark, politically driven epic fantasy rather than romantasy. Although relationships, intimacy and romance feature throughout the story, they aren’t its central focus.
As ARC places are limited, I tend to prioritise readers who already enjoy this kind of fantasy.
If you’re unsure whether Elisar is for you, Blood of the Banshee is a good place to start before applying for future volumes.
No. Places are limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.
Reading histories help me get a feel for the books you enjoy and whether the Chronicles of Elisar might be a good match.
I’m much more interested in genuine enthusiasm for books and thoughtful reviews than follower counts.
A smaller account with a relevant reading history can be just as suitable as a much larger one.
I read through every application myself and consider the information you’ve shared, your reading interests and any previous book-related content.
For later books in the series, I’ll also check whether you’ve completed the earlier required volumes.
I’ve put a great deal of time and care into creating Elisar, so I want its early copies to reach readers who are likely to connect with the story.
Places are limited, and sometimes I simply can’t offer everyone a copy.
I review applications personally, usually during weekday evenings (UK time), so response times can vary.
If you’re selected, I’ll contact you by email with information about accessing your ebook ARC and any important dates. Please remember to check your spam or junk folder, too!
For some campaigns, I may offer a sample first if I’m unsure whether the book will suit your reading preferences.
Reviews and Deadlines
Each ARC campaign has its own dates, which I’ll explain in your acceptance email.
Please bear in mind that the deadline for downloading your ebook and the suggested date for posting your review may be different.
If you need more time, feel free to get in touch.
You’re welcome to share your review wherever you normally discuss books, provided the platform allows ARC reviews.
This could include Amazon, Goodreads, StoryGraph, Fable, Instagram, TikTok or your own book blog.
There’s no expectation to post on every platform. I appreciate readers taking the time to share their thoughts where they’re most comfortable.
Absolutely not! Reviews should always reflect your own experience, whether you loved the book, had mixed feelings or didn’t enjoy it.
I only ask that you do not tag me (or my narrators) directly in negative reviews or critical posts. Readers should feel comfortable discussing books openly without the author becoming involved.
Druna might have something to say about it, mind you.
Email me and let me know. I understand that health, family, work and life in general can interfere with reading plans, and I am happy to give extensions when needed.
Yes. Nobody is required to continue reading or listening to something they no longer want or are unable to finish.
No. ARC reading is an entirely voluntary opportunity to read a book before its publication.
ARC readers are not being hired or commissioned to provide editing, proofreading, beta-reading, marketing or promotional services.
You’re welcome to share a review or create book-related content if you wish, but neither is compulsory.
The purpose of the programme is to give interested readers the opportunity to read early and, if they choose, share their thoughts.
Yes, please! If you decide to publish a review, make it clear that you received a complimentary advance copy.
Please also follow the disclosure requirements of the platform you’re using.
Receiving a complimentary copy doesn’t change anything about your review: your opinions are entirely your own.
ARC copies are provided for the selected reader’s personal use, so please don’t share, forward, upload or redistribute the ebook or its download links.
If somebody else is interested in reading the series, they’re welcome to look out for future ARC opportunities or pick up a published copy.
Future ARC Opportunities
Yes. I plan to offer further ebook ARC opportunities for upcoming Chronicles of Elisar releases.
Some opportunities may be offered to returning ARC readers, while public application rounds will be announced here.
As the series follows an ongoing story, you’ll need to have completed the earlier required books or parts before applying for later releases.
You don’t need to have received those books as ARCs. Purchased, borrowed and audiobook copies all count!
Of course! You’re welcome to apply again when a future application round opens.
Not being selected previously doesn’t mean you won’t be considered again.
Just remember that later books in the Chronicles of Elisar follow on from earlier releases, so you’ll need to be up to date with the story before applying.
I do not currently offer PR packages.