A book designated with the phrase indicates that its purpose is distribution for marketing activities, rather than direct retail sale. These books are often provided to reviewers, media outlets, or potential clients to generate interest and publicity. This designation signals that the copies are not to be resold and are intended for specific, marketing-related purposes.
The use of such designated materials allows publishers and authors to manage their inventory and control how the book enters the market. By limiting distribution to promotional avenues, they can strategically influence public perception and build anticipation. Historically, these pre-release copies have been critical in shaping initial reviews and driving pre-orders, which significantly impact a book’s launch success.
