How to Get Paid to Read Books
Find Paid Reading Gigs Through Freelance Sites or Publishing Jobs
Freelance platforms are a good starting point if you want to get paid for reading. Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer often have people looking for book reviewers or beta readers. Make sure your profile clearly shows that you enjoy reading and know how to give thoughtful feedback. Short sample reviews or summaries can help build trust fast.
Some editors and literary agents pay for help going through submissions. They might need someone to read full manuscripts and write short summaries or quick impressions. You won’t always see these gigs advertised clearly. Check agency websites and industry job boards like Publishers Marketplace. They sometimes list assistant roles or freelance reader openings.
Even a few unpaid blog reviews or Goodreads reviews can work as your portfolio. The point is to have something that shows you can read critically and write clearly. Jobs like this don’t stay open long, so it helps to check listings regularly and respond quickly. Subscribing to newsletters from publishing sites can save time, too.
Write Reviews for Sites That Pay Contributors
Several websites pay people to write book reviews. One of the better-known ones is Kirkus Reviews. They usually seek experienced reviewers who can write clean, professional reviews on a deadline. They cover both indie and traditionally published books.
Online Book Club is more beginner-friendly. You start by reviewing a free book, and once you’re approved, you can get paid, usually between $5 and $60 per review. The reviews need to be detailed and honest, not just quick opinions.
The U.S. Review of Books works with freelancers regularly. You choose which titles you want to review from their list. They expect reviews that follow a specific format, and they pay per completed review.
Reedsy Discovery is another option, though it pays through reader tips instead of set fees. You apply, get approved, and then choose books to review. Some reviewers get a few dollars in tips per post, but it can also help build a name as a reviewer.
BookBrowse is more selective. They want in-depth reviews, along with a short article that adds context to the book. They ask for strong sample reviews when you apply, and it helps to match their writing tone.
eBookFairs runs a paid reader program. They ask for at least one detailed monthly editorial review if you want to stay active in their system. The reviews must be over 200 words and well-written.
Publishers Weekly brings on freelance reviewers from time to time. They expect high-quality, balanced reviews and usually require a resume and writing samples. If you’ve got clips from other review work, that helps.
Booklist Online pays for short reviews used by libraries. They’re usually around 175 words and help librarians decide what to stock. You’ll need to wait for an open call for reviewers, which they post on the American Library Association’s site.
Women’s Review of Books focuses on books written by or about women. They tend to bring in journalists, scholars, or experienced reviewers. It’s worth sending a pitch or checking if they’re open to new contributors.
Most of these sites will want to see examples of your writing before they accept you. If you haven’t been published, detailed Goodreads reviews or posts on your own blog can still work as solid samples. Keep the writing clear, specific, and thoughtful.
Sign Up for Paid Advance Review Programs With Publishers
Some publishers and book marketing firms give out early copies of books in exchange for honest reviews. In a few cases, they offer payment up front. Other times, you earn through affiliate links if someone buys the book through your recommendation.
NetGalley is one of the most well-known platforms for accessing advanced review copies. They don’t pay directly, but reviewers who post consistently may get invited to paid campaigns backed by publishers.
Edelweiss+ works in a similar way. You can request books, leave reviews, and gain visibility with publishers. Some publicists look at top reviewers here for freelance projects or paid campaigns.
BookSirens connects readers with indie authors. You won’t always get paid just for reviewing, but they offer an affiliate setup. You earn a small commission if someone buys a book through your link.
Some publishers have official reviewer or influencer programs. HarperCollins and Hachette both run these. If you’re selected, you might get paid to review or post about books on your social channels.
Hidden Gems and Booksprout are two services that authors pay to get early reviews of. You apply to review specific titles. Some authors offer a flat rate or bonus payment for thorough reviews, especially on launch day.
Write Book Summaries for Educational Platforms
Some companies pay writers to turn nonfiction books into short, focused summaries. These aren’t opinion pieces—they stick to the main arguments and takeaways. The tone has to be clear, structured, and easy to follow.
Instaread pays around $100 per summary. Most are between 1,000 and 1,500 words. They focus on key ideas, not extra commentary or analysis.
Writers who want to work with Instaread need to follow their formatting rules closely. That usually means using direct language, clear subheadings, and a neutral voice. They don’t always post openings, so checking their site often helps.
getAbstract works with freelancers, too. Their focus is on business and self-development titles. Summaries are longer—often up to 4,000 words—and the pay is usually around $300 per project.
Applications at getAbstract include submitting a writing sample. If accepted, they’ll send assignments based on your strengths. It helps if you’re comfortable with technical subjects or complex nonfiction.
Blinkist does similar work but hires fewer freelancers. They’ve hired contract writers in the past, though most of their team is internal. It’s worth checking their careers page in case something opens up.
These projects usually come with a deadline and a style guide. Having experience with nonfiction helps. So does being able to explain ideas without repeating the book word-for-word.
Reach Out to Indie Authors for Paid Review Opportunities
Self-published authors often set aside money specifically for marketing. Part of that budget sometimes goes to paid reviews. They usually seek thoughtful, well-written feedback that helps promote their book.
If you already post about books online, that puts you ahead. Whether it’s a blog, a TikTok account, or a consistent Goodreads presence, those platforms show you’re active and engaged.
It’s a good idea to reach out directly. Find authors whose work fits your taste, then send a short message introducing yourself. Keep it personal—mention a book of theirs you’ve read or why you’re interested in their genre.
Include links to your past reviews so they can see your style. If you have a rate, share it clearly. Let them know what kind of review they’ll get: a short blurb, a detailed critique, or a blog post.
Being upfront helps avoid confusion later. If you’re charging, explain what they’re paying for and where the review will appear. Some authors want a post on Instagram. Others want it on Amazon or Goodreads.
Sites like BookSirens help match indie authors with reviewers. Reviewers set up profiles and list their favorite genres. They can sometimes get paid for promotional reviews if the author offers them.
Connecting with authors in Facebook groups or on Reddit can work, too. Some groups are open to paid review offers if you’re clear and professional about it.
Most of these are solid options if you’re looking for a side hustle. But if you’re committed and put in the work to build a presence, you could actually make a living reading books. It takes consistent content that speaks to both readers and writers, but it’s doable if you’re willing to stick with it.
Jason Butler is the owner of My Money Chronicles, a website where he discusses personal finance, side hustles, travel, and more. Jason is from Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Savannah State University with his BA in Marketing. Jason has been featured in Forbes, Discover, and Investopedia.
