10 Best Websites to Make Money Reading Books Online
Love reading books? What if I told you that you can actually make money while doing it? Sounds amazing, right? Well, it’s true! There are legit websites out there that will pay you to read and review books. You don’t need to be a professional writer or an English major. If you can read, share your opinion, and write a few paragraphs, you can start earning.
You won’t become a millionaire (sorry, no private jet), but this is a great way to earn extra cash, get free books, and turn your reading hobby into a fun side hustle. Whether you enjoy fiction, self-help, romance, or fantasy, there’s a platform for you.
In this article, I’ll share 10 of the best sites that pay you to read books. For each site, I’ll explain how it works, how much you can earn, and why it’s worth checking out. Ready to get paid for something you already love? Let’s dive in!
1. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is one of the most beginner-friendly platforms for book lovers who want to earn money while enjoying free books. It’s been around for years and has built a reputation for being legit. They work with authors and publishers who need honest reviews to promote their books.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Sign up for free on their website (no fees).
- Step 2: You’ll get access to a list of available books across different genres—fiction, non-fiction, self-help, romance, fantasy, you name it.
- Step 3: Your first review will be unpaid, but you get the book for free. This helps them check the quality of your review.
- Step 4: After your first approved review, you’ll start getting paid for every accepted review. You can pick books you like, read them at your own pace, and submit honest reviews.
How Much Can You Earn?
Payment ranges between $5 and $60 per review, depending on the length and complexity of the book. Plus, the free books are a nice bonus (especially if you’re a bookworm like me!).
Pros:
- Free books + money = happy reader.
- No strict deadlines: you read at your own pace.
- Beginner-friendly.
Cons:
- The first review is unpaid (some people hate that).
- Pay per review is not huge, so don’t expect a full-time income.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Write detailed, honest reviews; they love quality.
- Pick shorter books if you want to earn faster.
- Build a good reputation; better reviews can lead to more opportunities.
2. Kirkus Media
What It Is:
Kirkus Media is a big name in the book world. They publish reviews for indie authors, traditional publishers, and more. If you want to earn money and gain experience as a professional reviewer, this is the place.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Apply through their careers page. You’ll need to submit a resume and a sample review to show your writing skills.
- Step 2: Once accepted, they’ll assign you books based on your preferred genres.
- Step 3: You’ll read the book and write a 350-word professional review. They expect detailed, honest, and unbiased opinions.
- Step 4: Submit before the deadline (yes, they have deadlines!).
How Much Can You Earn?
Around $50 per review. Some reviewers even report earning more for special projects.
Pros:
- Reputable company (looks great on your writing portfolio).
- Good pay compared to some other sites.
- Work with a variety of genres, including indie books.
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly, they want experienced writers.
- Strict deadlines (this is not a “read whenever” job).
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Have a strong sample review when you apply.
- Stick to genres you enjoy; it makes the process faster.
- Meet deadlines to keep getting work.
3. Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is a platform that connects indie authors with readers who review their books. It’s a great place for book lovers who want to discover new talent and earn tips from grateful authors.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Sign up as a reviewer and set up your profile.
- Step 2: Browse the list of available books and choose ones that interest you.
- Step 3: Read the book and submit a detailed review for approval.
- Step 4: Authors can tip you if they like your review. Some reviewers earn good money through tips!
How Much Can You Earn?
There’s no fixed payment, but authors can tip reviewers anywhere from $1 to $50 or more. The more professional and insightful your review, the higher your chances of getting big tips.
Pros:
- Flexible, you choose what to read.
- Opportunity to build an audience as a book reviewer.
- Tips can add up if you’re consistent.
Cons:
- No guaranteed payment (depends on tips).
- It can take time to build your reputation.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Write in-depth, engaging reviews to impress authors.
- Share your reviews on social media to attract more followers.
- Review consistently to stay active on the platform.
Who It’s Best For:
Readers who love indie books and are okay with earnings based on tips.
4. Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is a well-known publication in the book industry, and they hire freelance reviewers for various genres. If you love reading and writing analytical reviews, this is a solid choice.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Apply as a reviewer through their official website. You’ll need to provide a resume and sample reviews.
- Step 2: If accepted, you’ll receive assignments. Reviews should be about 200-300 words and objective.
- Step 3: Submit reviews on time because they are strict about deadlines.
How Much Can You Earn?
The pay is around $25 per review, though experienced reviewers sometimes earn more.
Pros:
- A reputable platform for book lovers.
- Great for building a professional portfolio.
- Get access to new and upcoming titles.
Cons:
- Requires experience and writing skills.
- Not a high-paying gig for beginners.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Showcase your best writing samples when applying.
- Choose genres you love for faster reading.
- Be punctual and professional so that they value reliability.
Who It’s Best For:
Serious readers who want to turn reviewing into a side hustle or part-time job.
5. Women’s Review of Books
This is a feminist literary publication that reviews books by and about women. If you love women-centric literature and academic analysis, this might be your dream gig.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Contact the editors with a proposal and writing samples.
- Step 2: If approved, you’ll receive a book to review in-depth.
- Step 3: Submit an analytical review (they prefer well-researched opinions).
How Much Can You Earn?
Rates vary, but reviewers generally earn $100 or more per review, making this one of the higher-paying options.
Pros:
- High pay per review.
- Perfect for feminist literature enthusiasts.
- Great for building authority as a literary critic.
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly.
- Requires strong writing and analytical skills.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Pitch unique, thoughtful ideas to the editors.
- Provide professional samples that show expertise.
- Stick to deadlines to get repeat work.
6. Booklist
Booklist is a popular magazine published by the American Library Association. It provides book reviews and recommendations to libraries and educators. If you’re passionate about books and want to write professional reviews, Booklist is a fantastic option.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Visit the Booklist website and look for reviewer opportunities.
- Step 2: Submit a resume and writing sample to show your skills.
- Step 3: If approved, you’ll get books to review, usually in eBook format.
- Step 4: Write short, insightful reviews (about 150–175 words) with a clear recommendation for readers.
How Much Can You Earn?
Booklist pays around $15 per review, which is not huge but fair for the short length. You’ll also get to keep the books, which is a nice bonus.
Pros:
- Flexible work with no hard deadlines.
- Reviews are short, so it doesn’t take much time.
- Great for building experience as a book reviewer.
Cons:
- Pay per review is on the lower side.
- Not ideal if you’re looking for a full-time income.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Be clear and concise. Booklist loves reviewers who get straight to the point.
- Stick to genres you love; it makes writing reviews easier and faster.
- Turn in high-quality work consistently to get more assignments.
Who It’s Best For:
Anyone who wants to earn a little extra cash and gain experience in book reviewing, especially beginners.
7. U.S. Review of Books
The U.S. Review of Books is a well-known review publication that covers a wide range of genres. They hire freelance reviewers to write honest, detailed reviews. If you want to work with a reputable platform, this is a solid choice.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Apply through their website. You’ll need to send a resume and a sample review.
- Step 2: Once accepted, you’ll receive a list of books to choose from.
- Step 3: Read the book, write a 250–300-word review, and submit it by the deadline.
- Step 4: Get paid after your review is published.
How Much Can You Earn?
U.S. Review of Books pays around $25 per review. Payments are made monthly after acceptance.
Pros:
- A reputable platform that adds credibility to your portfolio.
- Wide variety of genres to choose from.
- Reviews help authors get exposure, so you’re contributing to their success.
Cons:
- Requires strong writing skills.
- Strict deadlines, so this is not for slow readers.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Always meet deadlines; late submissions hurt your chances of getting more work.
- Write engaging, well-structured reviews to stand out.
- Focus on genres you enjoy for faster turnaround.
8. BookBrowse
BookBrowse is a review site that provides in-depth book reviews and recommendations for readers and book clubs. They focus on high-quality, thoughtful reviews, so if you love analyzing stories, this is for you.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Apply on their website and provide writing samples.
- Step 2: If accepted, you’ll receive free books to review.
- Step 3: Write a review of at least 300 words plus a summary for readers.
- Step 4: Submit on time and get approved for payment.
How Much Can You Earn?
BookBrowse pays $50 per review. They also offer free books, which is a sweet deal for avid readers.
Pros:
- High pay compared to many other sites.
- Free books included.
- Perfect for readers who love detailed reviews.
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly; they expect professional-quality writing.
- Reviews require time and effort—they’re not just summaries.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Practice writing analytical, thoughtful reviews.
- Stick to genres you love for a better experience.
- Submit on time to maintain a good reputation.
Who It’s Best For:
Readers who enjoy diving deep into books and writing detailed, insightful reviews.
9. Instaread (Audiobook & Book Summary Reviews)
Instaread is a popular app that provides summaries of bestselling books. They often look for freelancers who can read and summarize books or review summaries. If you love condensing big ideas into short, clear points, this is a perfect fit.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Apply as a content creator or reviewer.
- Step 2: If selected, you’ll read books (or summaries) and write concise, clear reviews or summaries.
- Step 3: Submit within deadlines and get paid per project.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary, but most reviewers make around $100–$150 per summary/review project.
Pros:
- High earning potential compared to standard review sites.
- Perfect for nonfiction lovers.
- Opportunity to work on audiobook projects too.
Cons:
- Requires strong summarizing and writing skills.
- Competitive selection process.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Showcase your writing and research skills in your application.
- Stick to nonfiction if you’re good at extracting key insights.
- Be consistent so that good work leads to repeat projects.
10. Writerful Books
Writerful Books is an indie publishing company that hires book reviewers for new releases. They focus on quality, honest reviews that help authors improve their work and reach readers.
How It Works:
- Step 1: Apply as a reviewer on their website.
- Step 2: Once approved, you’ll receive books to read and review.
- Step 3: Write detailed reviews, usually 250–350 words, and submit them before the deadline.
How Much Can You Earn?
Writerful Books pays $10–$50 per review, depending on the complexity of the review and book length.
Pros:
- Great for discovering new indie authors.
- Decent pay for consistent work.
- Flexible, you can choose what to read.
Cons:
- Pay isn’t very high compared to some other sites.
- Requires good writing skills to maintain quality.
Tips to Maximize Earnings:
- Write honest, detailed reviews that help both authors and readers.
- Stick to genres you enjoy for better quality and faster turnaround.
- Apply early because we sometimes have limited slots for reviewers.
Final Thoughts
You’ve just discovered 10 amazing sites where you can actually make money by reading books. Sounds exciting, right? If you love reading, this is your chance to turn that passion into real income.
The best thing is you can start today. Pick one or two sites from this list and begin your journey. Imagine relaxing with a book and getting paid for it. That is what these sites make possible for you.
Do not stop here. If you want more simple and creative ways to earn from home, visit our Popular Posts section below. You will find helpful guides, smart tips, and other easy ways to make extra cash online.
Your next big income idea could be waiting there. So keep exploring, keep reading, and keep earning.
