Reading has always been a favourite pastime for me. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good story or learning something new from a well-written nonfiction book.

But what if I told you that reading doesn’t have to be just a hobby—it can also be a side hustle? Yes, there are legitimate websites that will pay you to read books.

This might sound surprising at first, but it makes sense. Authors, publishers, and platforms are constantly looking for readers to write reviews, provide feedback, or even record audiobooks.

And with more people consuming content online, the demand for book reviewers and related services has grown.

If you love reading and wouldn’t mind turning those hours with a book into extra cash, this list is for you. I’ve gathered 10 websites where you can get paid to read books, along with some tips to help you get started.

1. Online Book Club

How it works: Online Book Club connects readers with new authors who need reviews. After signing up, you’ll be given free books to read, and if your review gets accepted, you get paid.

Earnings: Most reviews pay between $5–$60, depending on the book and the review length.

Why it’s worth trying: If you’re new to book reviewing, this is one of the easiest places to start.

2. Kirkus Media

How it works: Kirkus hires freelance reviewers to provide detailed reviews of books, often before they’re published. They’re known for high editorial standards, so they look for people with strong writing skills.

Earnings: Around $50 per review, but the pay can vary.

Why it’s worth trying: If you want to build credibility as a book reviewer, having your work published with Kirkus is a big deal.

3. BookBrowse

How it works: BookBrowse is an online magazine for book lovers, and they occasionally hire freelance reviewers. The reviews are in-depth, so you’ll need to provide thoughtful commentary rather than just a star rating.

Earnings: Usually a flat fee per review, but it’s not publicly listed.

Why it’s worth trying: It’s a respected platform, and the reviews tend to reach a wide audience of passionate readers.

4. Publishers Weekly

How it works: Publishers Weekly, one of the biggest names in the publishing world, hires freelance reviewers for books across different genres. You’ll be reviewing mostly pre-release books for industry readers.

Earnings: Around $25 per short review, but assignments can add up over time.

Why it’s worth trying: Having your work tied to Publishers Weekly can give you strong credibility in the literary world.

5. Women’s Review of Books

How it works: This publication focuses on books written by and about women. They accept freelance pitches and pay contributors for thoughtful, essay-style reviews.

Earnings: About $100 per review.

Why it’s worth trying: If you’re passionate about gender issues, this is a great niche platform.

6. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

How it works: ACX, owned by Amazon, connects authors with narrators to create audiobooks. If you have a clear and engaging reading voice, you can get paid to read books out loud.

Earnings: Payment can be hourly or based on royalties from audiobook sales.

Why it’s worth trying: It’s a completely different way of being paid to read—perfect for anyone interested in voice work.

7. Upwork

How it works: While not book-specific, Upwork has plenty of freelance gigs where authors and publishers look for reviewers, editors, or audiobook narrators.

Earnings: Varies widely—from $10 for short reviews to $100+ for editing projects.

Why it’s worth trying: It gives you the flexibility to set your rates and choose the type of work you want to do.

8. Reedsy Discovery

How it works: Reedsy is a platform that connects authors with professional services. Through Reedsy Discovery, readers can apply to become reviewers and get early access to books.

Earnings: Reviewers don’t get a fixed payment but receive tips (usually $1–$5) from readers who appreciate their reviews.

Why it’s worth trying: If you’re looking to build an audience as a book reviewer, this is a good platform to start.

9. U.S. Review of Books

How it works: This publication accepts freelancers to review books of various genres. Reviews are typically around 250–300 words.

Earnings: About $25 per review.

Why it’s worth trying: It’s flexible—you can choose which books you want to review.

10. Freelance Blogger Networks (Medium, Personal Blog, or Substack)

How it works: Instead of reviewing for someone else, you can get paid by creating your own book review content. Platforms like Medium, Substack, or even your personal blog allow you to earn through ad revenue, subscriptions, or sponsorships.

Earnings: Highly variable—some bloggers make only a few dollars a month, while others earn thousands if they build a loyal audience.

Why it’s worth trying: If you’re consistent, this route has the highest earning potential long-term.

FAQs

Do I need to be a professional writer to get paid for book reviews?

Not at all. Some platforms (like Online Book Club or Reedsy Discovery) welcome beginners. That said, the better your writing, the more opportunities you’ll unlock.

How much money can I realistically make?

It depends on the platform and how much time you’re willing to dedicate. For example, if you do 5–10 short reviews per month, you could earn a few hundred dollars. Narration work on ACX can be much more lucrative, depending on the projects you land.

Are these jobs full-time opportunities?

Most of them are side gigs rather than full-time work. But if you combine several platforms—or create your own content—you could definitely turn it into a steady stream of income.

Will I always get free books?

Yes. In most cases, the books are provided for free, which is a bonus on top of getting paid.

Final Thoughts

Getting paid to read books isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme, but it’s a rewarding way to combine passion with profit. Whether you want to write thoughtful reviews, lend your voice to audiobooks, or start your own book-focused platform, there’s a path that can fit your interests.

So, if you could pick just one—would you rather write reviews, narrate books, or start your own blog about reading?