Get Paid to Read: Top Rated Book Reviewer Jobs in 2025

Did you know you can get paid to read? Yes, you read that right! You can actually earn an extra income and/or receive free books and other gifts, while doing what you love: reading books and sharing your opinion on them. Imagine diving into the latest best-seller or discovering hidden gems, all while making money.

In this article, we’ll show you the best book reviewer jobs out there, whether you're looking for a side hustle or a full-time gig. Let’s dive into how you can get paid to read today!

10 Legit Sites That Pay for Book Reviews

If you’re ready to start earning money as a book reviewer, here are ten amazing websites that pay readers, like you, for reading and reviewing books:

1. Online Book Club

Potential Payout: $5 to $60 per review

Online Book Club is a go-to platform for book lovers who want to get paid to read. It’s simple to get started—you’ll sign up, create a profile, and then pick books that match your interests. After reading, you write a thoughtful review, and once it’s approved, you get paid! The best part? The books are often free, so you don’t need to spend your own money to get started.

How It Works:

• Sign up and create your profile.
• Choose from available books that interest you.
• Write a detailed review once you finish reading.
• Get paid once your review is approved.

This is an ideal platform for beginners looking for a steady flow of books to review while getting paid!

2. Reedsy Discovery

Potential Payout: $1 to $5 per review (Tip Basis).

If you’re passionate about supporting indie authors, Reedsy Discovery is perfect for you. This platform lets you read and review self-published books before they’re released to the public. Reviewers are compensated for their time, and your review helps authors gain exposure. Plus, you get to keep the books!

How It Works:

• Apply and become a reviewer.
• Browse through available books and select ones that interest you.
• Write and submit your review.
• Get paid via PayPal once your review is published.

Reedsy is perfect for readers who enjoy discovering hidden gems and helping new authors get noticed.

3. The U.S. Review of Books

Potential Payout: $5 to $60 per review.

The U.S. Review of Books is a fantastic option for those who enjoy reviewing books in a variety of genres. This platform focuses on providing professional-quality reviews of both fiction and nonfiction books. When you join, you’ll be assigned books to review, and your thoughtful insights will be published on their site, providing authors with the exposure they need.

How It Works:

• Sign up and become a reviewer.
• Receive books that match your interests.
• Write professional, detailed reviews and submit them for payment.
• Your reviews will be published on The U.S. Review of Books’ website.

This platform is ideal for those who enjoy writing polished reviews and want to help authors gain visibility.

4. NetGalley

Potential Payout: Free Advance Reader Copies (ARC’s) - No monetary compensation

NetGalley is a well-known platform where you can get your hands on books before they’re even published! Whether you’re a professional reviewer or a casual reader, you can request digital copies of books in a variety of genres and post reviews. This is a great option for those who don’t mind reading books in digital format.

How It Works:

• Sign up and create a profile.
• Browse through available books.
• Request copies of books you’re interested in and write your reviews.
• Post reviews on NetGalley, Amazon, Goodreads, or your blog.

NetGalley is great for bookworms who love to read in digital formats and enjoy a wide variety of genres.

5. Kirkus Reviews

Potential Payout: $50 to 400+ per review.

For those who love writing detailed and professional critiques, Kirkus Reviews could be a great fit. Known for its high-quality reviews, Kirkus pays you to write in-depth reviews of books across many genres. They focus on both well-known authors and debut writers, so there’s always something new to discover.

How It Works:

• Apply to become a reviewer on their site.
• Once approved, you’ll receive books to review.
• Write thoughtful, professional reviews and submit them for payment.

Kirkus is the perfect platform for those who enjoy writing detailed, insightful reviews.

6. BzzAgent

Potential Payout: Varies (Rewards, gift cards, and sometimes cash)

BzzAgent is a unique site that offers more than just book reviews. As part of their product campaigns, you can get paid to review books and share your thoughts on social media. In exchange, you’ll earn rewards like free products, gift cards, and even cash!

How It Works:

• Sign up and complete your profile.
• Get matched with campaigns that include books.
• Read the books, share your reviews on social media, and promote the products.
• Earn rewards for your participation.

BzzAgent is ideal for those who enjoy social media and want to mix book reviewing with a little bit of marketing.

7. Goodreads

Potential Payout: Varies (Free books, giveaways, and exposure) - No monetary earnings

Goodreads isn’t a paid platform in the traditional sense, but it’s still an excellent place to build your reputation as a book reviewer. By writing honest reviews and participating in giveaways, you can earn free books and gain access to advanced reader copies (ARCs). Over time, your reputation on the site can lead to paid reviewing opportunities.

How It Works:

• Sign up and track the books you read.
• Write reviews of the books you finish.
• Participate in giveaways to win free books.

While you won’t get paid directly on Goodreads, the site can help you connect with authors and publishers, opening doors to other paid opportunities.

8. Women’s Review of Books

Potential Payout: $100 per review.

Women’s Review of Books is a well-respected literary journal that highlights books written by and about women. They’re looking for thoughtful, in-depth reviews rather than quick summaries, making this a great opportunity for experienced reviewers who enjoy analyzing literature through a feminist lens.

How It Works:

• Apply to become a reviewer.
• If accepted, you’ll receive books to review.
• Write detailed, analytical reviews (typically 1,000–1,500 words).
• Get paid per review once approved.

This is a great fit for strong writers who love diving deep into literature that explores women’s experiences and perspectives.

9. Booklist Publications

Potential Payout: $15 per review.

Booklist Publications, run by the American Library Association, is a go-to resource for librarians, educators, and book enthusiasts. They pay freelance reviewers to write short, professional book reviews—usually around 150–175 words. If you’re good at summarizing books while giving a balanced critique, this could be a great fit.

How It Works:

• Apply to become a reviewer.
• If accepted, you’ll get book assignments based on your interests.
• Write clear, concise reviews (about 150–175 words).
• Get paid per review once approved.

This is a great option for those who enjoy writing quick, insightful reviews and want to contribute to a well-respected publication in the literary world.

10. Instaread

Potential Payout: $100 per summary.

If you love nonfiction and have a knack for breaking down big ideas, Instaread might be a perfect fit. Instead of writing traditional book reviews, you’ll create detailed summaries of bestselling nonfiction books, covering key insights and takeaways in a clear, engaging way.

How It Works:

• Apply to become a summary writer.
• If accepted, choose from a list of available books.
• Write a well-structured summary that captures the book’s main ideas.
• Get paid per summary once approved.

This is a great gig for readers who enjoy nonfiction and can distill complex topics into easy-to-digest content.

Additional Ways to Get Paid to Read Books

If you are passionate about reading but want a little more flexibility beyond writing book reviews, you should look into these additional opportunities:

• Audiobook Proofreading: Listen to audiobooks and catch any errors before they’re released. These jobs are often offered by companies like ACX and Findway Voices.
• Audiobook Narrating: If you have a great voice, you can get paid to narrate books for platforms like Audible’s ACX.
• Beta Reading: Websites like BetaBooks and Reedsy offer opportunities for you to provide early feedback in order to help authors refine their work before publication.
• Freelance Book Editing: You can turn your love for reading into a side hustle by offering to edit manuscripts for self-published authors. Check out listings on Upwork and Fiverr.
• Literary Translation: If you know multiple languages, you can actually earn money by translating books for international audiences.

Final Thoughts: Are Book Reviewer Jobs Worth It?

If you love reading and enjoy sharing your thoughts on books, becoming a book reviewer can be a fun way to earn extra cash or score free books! However, it’s important to note that book reviewing isn’t a “get-rich-quick” gig.

These jobs are best suited for avid readers who are willing to put in the effort to write thoughtful, well-structured reviews. If that sounds like you, it can be a rewarding and worthwhile opportunity! But if you’re looking for a high-earning side hustle, you may want to explore other options.

FAQs

1. How do you become a book reviewer?

To become a book reviewer, start by reading and writing reviews on platforms like Goodreads or your personal blog. This helps build your credibility. Then, apply to websites that pay for book reviews, such as Online Book Club, Kirkus Reviews, or Reedsy Discovery. Some companies require a sample review, so practicing well-written, insightful critiques will increase your chances of getting accepted.

2. How much do book reviewers get paid?

Book reviewers can earn anywhere from $5 to $400+ per review, depending on the platform and the depth of the review. Some sites, like NetGalley, offer free books instead of direct payment, while others, like Kirkus Reviews and Instaread, pay higher rates for detailed, professional-level reviews.

3. Is getting paid to read books legit?

Yes, getting paid to read books is completely legit! Many reputable websites, such as The U.S. Review of Books and Booklist Publications, offer real opportunities for reviewers. However, be cautious of scams; legitimate companies won’t ask for payment to join or require you to purchase books upfront.

4. What companies hire book reviewers?

Several companies and platforms pay for book reviews, including:

• Kirkus Reviews – Pays for professional, in-depth reviews.
• Online Book Club – Offers free books and cash payments for approved reviews.
• The U.S. Review of Books – Assigns books to reviewers based on their interests.
• Reedsy Discovery – Lets you earn tips for reviewing indie books.
• Booklist Publications – Pays freelance reviewers for concise book critiques.

5. What skills do you need to be a book reviewer?

To succeed as a book reviewer, you’ll need:

• Strong writing skills: Reviews should be clear, engaging, and well-structured.
• Attention to detail: Noticing themes, writing style, and character development is key.
• Critical thinking: Providing an honest yet fair evaluation of a book’s strengths and weaknesses.
• Time management: Meeting deadlines is crucial, especially for paid gigs.
• Passion for reading: A genuine love for books makes the process enjoyable and rewarding.