If you love reading, you can actually get paid to review books.
Below is a clear, SEO-friendly guide to 14 legitimate sites that pay readers for honest book reviews. These platforms can reward you with free advance copies or actual cash, depending on the site and the assignment.
Whether you want a flexible way to earn extra income or simply want to read more without spending money, these paid book review opportunities are a great place to start.
How paid book review sites work
Paid book review platforms connect authors and publishers with readers who can provide thoughtful feedback. Reviewers read assigned titles, write reviews following site guidelines, and receive compensation or free copies in return. This mutually beneficial arrangement helps authors improve visibility and gives reviewers a way to monetize their reading habit.
The book review process
Getting started usually involves creating an account and applying to become a reviewer. Some sites request writing samples to ensure reviewers can deliver high-quality work. Once accepted, you can browse available books and request titles you want to review.
If selected, you’ll receive the book—either an ebook or a physical copy—and a deadline for submission. Read the book carefully and write your review to meet the site’s requirements, which may include a minimum word count, a focus on specific elements (plot, characters, pacing), or a particular review structure.
After submission, reviews typically go through an approval or editing process. Payment amounts, schedules, and whether compensation is monetary or a free copy of the book vary by site.
Why authors use paid book review sites
Authors rely on paid review services for visibility and credibility. Reviews from reputable outlets can boost discoverability, influence sales, and lend authority—especially important for self-published and indie authors. Constructive reviews also provide authors with feedback that can improve future work and help books rank better on retailer platforms.
The Best Sites That Will Pay You To Review Books
Here are 14 notable sites and platforms where you can earn for writing book reviews. Each entry highlights what to expect so you can find the best match for your interests and goals.
1. Kirkus Reviews
Kirkus Reviews is a longstanding and respected name in the industry, known for professional, independent reviews for both traditionally published and self-published books. Authors can pay for evaluations through Kirkus Indie, which is popular among self-publishers seeking credibility. Kirkus hires freelance reviewers for concise professional reviews—typically around 350 words—with short turnaround windows.
2. Booklist
Booklist publishes reviews targeted at public and school libraries and pays freelancers approximately $15 per published review. They produce thousands of reviews annually, providing consistent opportunities for reviewers who enjoy library-focused titles and helping librarians choose new acquisitions.
3. BookLife by Publishers Weekly
BookLife specializes in reviews for self-published authors and is part of the Publishers Weekly family. Review pay typically ranges from around $25 to $75, with expected reviews of roughly 300 words that include plot summary, critique, and analysis.
4. Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery connects reviewers with hundreds of new indie books, often before wide release. Reviewers can earn for each review published on the platform; writing more high-quality reviews can increase your visibility and potential earnings as a reviewer.
5. London Review of Books
The London Review of Books (LRB) is a prestigious fortnightly magazine that publishes essays and long-form criticism. They accept unsolicited submissions, offering experienced reviewers and essayists an opportunity to reach a wide, engaged readership.
6. Readers’ Favorite
Readers’ Favorite reviews a wide variety of formats—ebooks, audiobooks, comics—and provides review services for authors. While payouts here may be smaller or structured differently than other sites, it’s a large community that offers many review opportunities.
7. Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books focuses on books by and about women and features work from scholars, critics, and writers. It’s an excellent venue if your interests align with women’s literature and related topics.
8. OnlineBookClub
OnlineBookClub is free to join and commonly requires a first free review as part of the onboarding. After that, reviewers can earn payments that typically range from about $5 to $60 per review, depending on the book and review tier. You can choose titles in genres you enjoy.
9. BookBrowse
BookBrowse offers regular review opportunities geared toward book lovers. Reviewers often receive about one assignment per month and a modest payment per published review. It’s a steady option for reviewers who prefer a predictable pace.
10. BlueInk Review
BlueInk Review provides professional reviews across genres, including self-published works, graphic novels, and translated books. Reviews are typically concise—around 250–300 words—and BlueInk has published thousands of reviews to date.
11. The US Review of Books
The US Review of Books connects authors with professional reviewers who are paid per review. Reviewers apply and, once approved, choose from available titles. Payments are typically issued on a regular schedule, such as monthly.
12. Manhattan Book Review
Manhattan Book Review has been active since 2008 and covers many genres. They look for short, focused reviews or summaries—usually under 300 words—making it a good fit for reviewers who prefer concise criticism.
13. eBookFairs
eBookFairs offers paid review opportunities with a clear pay structure: around $10 for books longer than 100 pages, while shorter works may not be compensated. With thousands of titles available, eBookFairs makes it easy to find books that match your interests.
14. Upwork
Upwork is a large freelance marketplace where authors and publishers post book review jobs. Create a profile, search for book reviewer gigs, and bid on projects that match your skills. Rates vary widely; experienced freelancers may charge $25 to $100+ per hour or set per-review prices after negotiating terms with clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about getting paid for book reviews.
Can you get paid to do book reviews?
Yes. Many legitimate websites and publications pay for book reviews. Compensation ranges from free copies to cash payments depending on the platform and the length or depth of the review.
What is the best site for book reviews?
The best site depends on your goals. If you want prestige and professional experience, outlets like Kirkus or BookLife can be valuable. If you want steady access to indie books and simple pay, Reedsy Discovery or OnlineBookClub may be better choices. Consider pay rates, types of books, and required turnaround when choosing a platform.
Can students also get paid for reviewing books?
Yes. Many sites allow students to apply as long as they can produce well-written reviews. Some platforms have no strict age limits; others may require an adult account or parental permission for minors.
Will Amazon pay you for book reviews?
Amazon does not pay for reviews directly. However, Amazon’s Vine program can provide free review copies to trusted reviewers. Vine participants are selected by Amazon and receive products to review without direct payment.
What should I know before starting a book review side hustle?
Start by confirming you enjoy reading and can write clearly and honestly. Build credibility by sharing free reviews on platforms like Goodreads and always disclose paid reviews when required. Avoid using AI-generated content to write reviews unless explicitly allowed—most sites expect original, human-written responses.
How much money can you make writing book reviews?
Earnings vary: some reviews pay $25–$60 each, others pay less or provide only free copies. For most people, paid book reviewing is a supplemental income stream rather than a full-time job, but consistent, high-quality work can add up over time.
How To Get Paid To Write Book Reviews – Summary
Paid book reviews are a realistic way to turn a love of reading into extra income or rewards. Choose platforms that suit your interests—whether that’s established review journals, indie-focused marketplaces, or freelance gigs—and ensure you follow each site’s submission and disclosure rules. With clear writing, honesty, and consistent effort, reviewing books can become a rewarding side hustle.
Have you tried any of these paid book review sites?
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