How I Made $7,100 by Reading Books on These 4 Legit Websites

Quick Summary

If you've been wondering how to make money reading books, how to get paid to review books, or whether it's possible to read books for money, this guide will show you exactly where to start.

Yes, you can get paid to read books. Here’s how I turned my love for reading into a real online income.

Most people think reading books is just a hobby.

But what if I told you it could also become your next side hustle-or even help you land one of the growing book reviewer jobs available online?

Over the past year, I made $7,100 by reading books and writing reviews online. And no, this isn’t one of those fake “read 1,000 pages and earn $3” scams. These are legitimate websites that pay real money for book reviews, editorial feedback, beta reading, and professional critiques.

If you’ve been wondering how to make money reading books, how to get paid to review books, or whether it’s possible to read books for money, this guide will show you exactly where to start.

Let’s get started.

1. Kirkus Media – Where Professional Book Reviewer Jobs Pay the Most

Kirkus is one of the most respected review publications in the publishing industry. If you’re looking for high-quality book reviewer jobs, this is one of the best places to start. They regularly hire experienced freelance reviewers, particularly for indie and self-published books.

Pay: $50–$70 per 350-word review

Time to first gig: 1–2 weeks after applying

Best for: Experienced reviewers looking to get paid to review books professionally.

Tip: Write a sample review that closely matches Kirkus’ editorial style before applying.

In my case, I applied with a review of a thriller novel. A week later, I was accepted. Since then, I’ve reviewed 28 books for Kirkus and earned approximately $1,001.

2. Online Book Club – One of the Best Websites to Get Paid to Read Books

If you’re new to reading books for money, Online Book Club is an excellent place to begin. While your first review serves as a writing sample and isn’t paid, approved reviewers can start receiving paid assignments afterward.

This platform is frequently recommended to beginners looking for legitimate book review jobs because it doesn’t require years of professional reviewing experience.

Pay: $5–$60 per review

Bonus: You get to keep many of the books you review.

Reality check: Not every book is exciting, but it’s still a great way to get paid to read books while improving your reviewing skills.

I earned around $320 in four months, often writing reviews during lunch breaks or relaxing Sunday afternoons.

3. Reedsy Discovery – Review Books for Money and Build Your Reputation

Reedsy Discovery is one of the most popular communities for independent authors. Instead of offering a fixed payment, readers can earn tips from both authors and readers who appreciate their reviews.

If you’re hoping to review books for money while building an online reputation as a trusted reviewer, this platform is an excellent choice.

Pay: Reader tips (many reviewers earn $100+ per month)

Best for: Readers who enjoy discovering new indie books before they’re widely available.

One advantage of Reedsy Discovery is that strong reviewers often build a following over time, making it easier to receive regular tips and future reviewing opportunities.

4. Ezechax Club – Get Paid to Read, Write, and Grow

Ezechax is where I earned the most. I started by reading books and educational content to earn rewards. As I became more active, I moved into writing articles, eventually earning over $5,100 from the platform.

Pay: Variable (based on participation and contributions)

What I earned: Over $5,100

Best for: Anyone who wants to get paid to read books, write valuable content, and earn from an active community.

Today, Ezechax has moved beyond its blog writing program and now rewards members through Ezechax Club. Instead of writing blog posts, you can read, write, complete quizzes, and engage with community posts to earn rewards while growing your knowledge and online presence.

If you’re looking for a legitimate way to get paid to read books and turn your knowledge into income, Ezechax Club is one of the best communities to join.

Can You Really Get Paid to Read Books?

Absolutely.

While no company pays you simply to sit and read, many publishers, authors, and book review platforms will pay you for the value you provide after finishing a book. This usually involves writing honest reviews, providing editorial feedback, beta reading manuscripts, or completing detailed critiques.

Whether you’re looking for paid to read books, book reviewer jobs, or wondering how to make money reading books, the websites featured in this guide prove that legitimate opportunities are available.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for ways to get paid to read books, get paid to review books, review books for money, or find legitimate book review jobs, these platforms are some of the best places to start.

The key is to treat book reviewing like a professional freelance skill. The better your reviews become, the more opportunities you’ll receive. Many successful reviewers eventually build long-term relationships with publishers and authors, turning a simple love of reading into a consistent source of online income.

So if you’ve always dreamed of reading books for money, now is the perfect time to apply, build your portfolio, and start earning from something you already enjoy.