Alright, I’m a bit behind getting this post out, but with Camp NetGalley being new to me, I figured I’m probably not the only one curious about what it is and how to take part. So let’s dive into what Camp NetGalley is, how the bingo card works, and how you can join the fun this summer!
What Is NetGalley?
If you’re not familiar with NetGalley, it’s a free digital platform where publishers, publicists, and authors share Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) of upcoming books in exchange for honest reviews. Think of it as a treasure trove for book reviewers, bloggers, and book influencers.
Getting started is easy. You request a title, and if approved, you get access to read and review. Each publisher has its own requirements, but many are happy with Goodreads or blog reviews, while others may prefer media coverage.
Check out the Getting Started Guide here
What is Camp NetGalley?
Camp NetGalley is a fun seasonal challenge running from July 7 through August 1, 2025. It includes a special selection of 20 featured books you can request and read during the event. Just be sure to download them by July 20 and submit your review by August 1 to earn a special Camp NetGalley Badge on your profile.
Check out the featured titles here: NetGalley Featured Books
What Did I Pick?
I selected Breathe In, Bleed Out, and as I write this, I’m already 63% through. This one’s been a blast so far, fans of Clown in a Cornfield will love it, though it leans more into adult horror themes. Really any slasher fan will have a fun time with this! If you’ve picked something from the list, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Camp NetGalley 2025 BINGO Card
The bingo card adds an extra layer of fun to the reading challenge. While there’s no official prize for completing it, it’s a great way to engage with the NetGalley community across social platforms and improve your reviewer profile. Here’s how I’m tackling each square, with tips and links to helpful NetGalley resources.
Row 1
- Add Moods to a Book or Audiobook
Haven’t completed this yet, but I plan to! Here’s more info on Book Moods on NetGalley. - Read Our DNF Tips
This was a great reminder that it’s okay not to finish everything. Read DNF Advice Here - Share a Picture of Your Camp Reading Spot
Mine? Poolside or on the elliptical. Where are you reading this summer? - Follow @NetGalley on Social Media
Easy one! You can follow NetGalley here: - Share a NetGalley Review to a Retail Site
Some titles aren’t live for retail yet (like when I wrote my recent TMNT review), but I’ve submitted other reviews on Amazon. Try this once you find an eligible book!
Row 2
- Review the Oldest Book on Your Shelf
Doing this now, watch for a review soon! - Friend Picks Your Book to Review
TBD. I may skip this one unless I get ahead on my TBR. - Update Your NetGalley Profile
New or returning user? This Helpful Hints for Your Profile article is for you. - Review 3 Books
I’ve posted multiple reviews this month so this should be covered here and on Amazon too. - Read “Who to Tag in Reviews” Article
Another article I missed from NetGalley, but Check it out if you’re unsure how to increase your review visibility.
Row 3
- Share a NetGalley Review on Social Media
I’ll be doing this with Breathe In, Bleed Out once finished. - Share the “Meet the Camper” Template
Shared mine already. Have you? - Free Space
Easy win! - Make a Camp Review List on NetGalley
From your dashboard, click Create New List. Mine’s titled “Camp Review.” - Review a Book by an LGBTQIA+ Author
I’d love your suggestions! I’ve read several with LGBTQIA+ characters, but I want to highlight the authors too—drop your recs in the comments!
Row 4
- Review a Book by a BIPOC Author
Loved Moon of the Crusted Snow by Waubgeshig Rice. Also eyeing Stephen Graham Jones soon! - Raise Your Feedback Ratio
Got a few reviews in the works which should raise that ratio by month’s end. - Submit a Review for a We Are Bookish Resource
Explore We Are Bookish for articles, writing tips, and book club help. - Review a Book from Your Favorite Genre
End of Watch was my last reviewed horrorish book. Check it out if you want to learn about social media and social engineering themes in this book. - Read the Review Guidelines
Make sure you’re submitting quality content: NetGalley Review Guidelines
Row 5
- Review a Book from the Camp NetGalley Carousel
My pick: Breathe In, Bleed Out. Don’t miss this one, especially if you love horror! - Write Your Review Outside
Planning to do this by the pool this weekend, although I do prefer to write in my office. - Update Your NetGalley Reading Journal
Here’s what that is: Digital Reading Journal - Review 10 Books
I’m not sure if this is 10 books total, in the month of July or on NetGalley, but this may be a hard one for me. - Read via the Shelf App or NetGalley Reader
I’ve been using the app for comics and books without a Kobo option, so will make sure to pull out the tablet this month.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up my Camp NetGalley 2025 Bingo card (so far)! I’ll try to post weekly progress updates for the rest of July, but let’s be real, life happens and maybe I won’t.
Are you participating in Camp NetGalley this year? Let me know what you’re reading, what you’re reviewing, and if you’ve got any recommendations, especially for LGBTQIA+ or BIPOC authors!
Let’s connect and support each other as we read and review this summer!
Use hashtags: #CampNetGalley #NetGalley
Cole Talks Books 
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