If you’re an avid reader with a passion for writing, you can turn your love for books into a rewarding source of income. Book review websites provide an excellent platform for book enthusiasts to share their thoughts, insights, and recommendations with a wide audience. What’s even better is that some of these websites offer compensation for your book reviews. In this blog post, we will explore several book review websites that not only allow you to express your literary opinions but also provide opportunities to get paid for your valuable contributions.
Here are Book Review Websites That Pay
1. BookBrowse:
BookBrowse is a reputable book review website that pays reviewers for high-quality, detailed book reviews. They provide a wide range of books across various genres for reviewers to choose from. If your review is selected for publication on their website, you’ll receive a cash payment for your work.
2. Online Book Club
Online Book Club is a platform that pays reviewers for honest reviews of books from various genres. No prior experience is required, making it perfect for beginners.
What You’ll Do:
- Receive a free book to review.
- Write an honest review, including constructive feedback.
How to Apply: Sign up on the Online Book Club website and complete a sample review.
Payment: Earn between $5 to $60 per review, depending on the book and length of the review.
3. Kirkus Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews is a well-known book review platform that offers paid reviewing opportunities. While they primarily hire their own team of reviewers, they also accept freelance submissions. Kirkus Reviews pays reviewers for their critiques, and if your review is chosen for publication in their magazine, you’ll receive compensation for your work.
What You’ll Do:
- Read and review books within a two-week period.
- Submit professional-quality reviews that are 350 words or more.
How to Apply: Visit the Kirkus Reviews website and submit your resume, writing samples, and review preferences.
Payment: Compensation is competitive and paid per review.
4. Reedsy Discovery
Reedsy Discovery is a platform for indie authors to showcase their books, and they rely on reviewers to provide feedback and recommendations.
What You’ll Do:
- Choose books you’re interested in reviewing from a curated list.
- Write detailed reviews that highlight the book’s strengths and weaknesses.
How to Apply: Create a reviewer profile on the Reedsy Discovery website and start reviewing.
Payment: Reviewers earn tips from readers who appreciate their recommendations, along with free access to books.
5. Booklist Online
Booklist Online, a publication of the American Library Association, hires freelance reviewers to critique books in various genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and children’s literature.
What You’ll Do:
- Read assigned books and submit professional reviews.
- Meet strict deadlines for review submissions.
How to Apply: Contact Booklist with your resume and writing samples.
Payment: Freelancers are paid per review, with rates depending on the project.
6. Women’s Review of Books
Women’s Review of Books focuses on feminist literature and books written by or about women. If this niche aligns with your interests, it’s a great opportunity to earn money while supporting women authors.
What You’ll Do:
- Write in-depth reviews of assigned books.
- Provide critical analysis from a feminist perspective.
How to Apply: Send your resume and samples of critical writing to the editors.
Payment: Competitive rates based on the review’s length and complexity.
7. Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly hires freelance reviewers to critique books across a variety of genres, from fiction to academic works.
What You’ll Do:
- Submit concise, 200-300 word reviews.
- Focus on plot, character development, and overall quality.
How to Apply: Email Publishers Weekly with your resume and writing samples.
Payment: Freelancers are paid a flat fee per review.
8. Any Subject Books
Any Subject Books offers flexible opportunities for reviewers to critique books of their choice. This platform is ideal for readers who want autonomy in selecting titles.
What You’ll Do:
- Choose books that interest you from the available catalog.
- Provide honest, constructive feedback.
How to Apply: Sign up on their website and complete the application process.
Payment: Rates vary depending on the book and the review’s length.
9. U.S. Review of Books
The U.S. Review of Books connects reviewers with books across a wide range of genres. They expect high-quality reviews that can help promote the books.
What You’ll Do:
- Read assigned books and submit detailed critiques.
- Meet deadlines for review submissions.
How to Apply: Submit your resume and writing samples through their website.
Payment: Compensation is offered per review and depends on the book’s length.
10. Upwork and Fiverr
Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to offer your book reviewing services. You can set your own rates and choose projects that interest you.
What You’ll Do:
- Work with clients to review books of their choice.
- Provide personalized feedback or public reviews.
How to Apply: Create a profile on Upwork or Fiverr and list book reviewing as one of your services.
Payment: Set your own rates, with potential earnings varying by project.
11. NetGalley
While NetGalley doesn’t directly pay reviewers, it offers free access to pre-release books. You can leverage your reviews to build a portfolio and attract paid opportunities.
What You’ll Do:
- Read and review books before their official release.
- Share your reviews on platforms like Goodreads or Amazon.
How to Apply: Sign up as a reviewer on the NetGalley website.
Payment: Although unpaid, it’s a valuable way to gain experience and free books.
12. Book Riot:
Book Riot is a popular online publication that covers all things book-related. While they don’t have a specific payment structure for book reviews, they occasionally accept guest submissions and compensate writers for their contributions.
Remember to familiarize yourself with the submission guidelines and requirements of each website before submitting your reviews. By exploring these book review platforms, you can combine your passion for reading with the opportunity to earn money and contribute to the literary community. Happy reading and reviewing!
Book Recommendations for Stay-at-Home Moms
Fiction to Escape Reality
- The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
- Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
- Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Inspiring Nonfiction
Practical and Parenting Reads
- Atomic Habits by James Clear
- The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
- Simplicity Parenting by Kim John Payne
Light and Fun Reads
Conclusion
Getting paid to review books is a rewarding way to combine your love for reading with earning extra income. Whether you join established platforms like Kirkus Reviews or create your own opportunities on freelance websites, there’s a path for every book lover. Start exploring these options today and turn your passion into profit!