Do you like reading books? Is one of your favorite sections of the Sunday paper the book reviews section? Would you like to get paid to write book reviews yourself?
If you’re new to the world of freelance writing, you might want to check out this HUGE list of 60+ sites that pay you to write (many accept beginners).
But if you just want to write reviews, here is a list of online work from home companies that are willing to pay you to write book reviews.
And while there are tons of freelance writing niches you could potentially specialize in, writing book reviews may be more fun for you if you love reading!
Before you begin, take a minute and sign up here for FREE to receive my weekly work from home emails! I’m sending out new information about working from home, paid apps, side gigs, and more. Do you prefer to get all your information at once? My e-books which you can download here are a great option with everything you need, there when you want it.
Which companies pay their book reviews in cash?
Let me just say here that although many companies offer to hire and pay their book reviews, they don’t all pay species. Some companies only compensate the reader with a free copy of the book.
There are also many scams where companies claim to hire book reviewers only to find out that they keep the review and use it to their advantage. Unfortunately, these scammers never pay the appraiser for their time.
Some of the companies I found (and I’m 110% sure I’m not right) are listed below.
1 – Kirkus
Kirkus is probably best known for hiring book reviewers. Book reviews must be submitted within two weeks of acceptance for completion, and the review should be approximately 350 words. Salary will vary depending on your experience.
Payment is made by check and mailed 60 days after the notice is written and submitted. Although the job is enjoyable for most, it is unreliable and should not be considered a primary source of income.
You can read our Kirkus reviews to find out more.
2 – Online book club
Online book club claims to pay and give away free books to its book reviewers. You can earn between $5 and $60 per review, depending on the book being reviewed. This amount will be paid to you and you will receive a copy of the book to keep.
3 – The American Book Review
The American Review of Books regularly needs freelancers to review books for publication. You will need to submit a resume, work samples, and at least two professional references to be considered as an evaluator. The payment amount for reviews you write is not listed on the website, but it states that you will be paid monthly by mailed check.
4 – Discovery of Reedsy
Discovery of Reedsy is always looking for new book reviews. The pay for this one is not high – the authors are able to tip you for your time. Most tips are $1, $3 or $5. Looking at the application page, it also looks like you may need to have a blog to be accepted.
5 – Book List Publications
Booklist Publications pays $15 for well-written book reviews. They do not accept unsolicited reviews or contributions and will instead assign reviews for completion. Before sending them a request, they ask that you familiarize yourself with their publications and their writing style by registering on their site and receiving their newsletter. Once you’re ready to contact us, you can email the publisher for the types of books you’re interested in (their contact information can be found on the submission page linked above).
6 – Browse books
BookBrowse pays their book reviews about $60 per review, but this can vary. You will likely have the opportunity to review one book per month if your application is successful. They allow you to have a signature with your opinion. You must send them a sample book review in order to be accepted to write reviews for them.
There is also a big list of book review websites herealthough these do not appear to be advertising for new reviewers. Still, you may be able to get in touch with the owners of these websites to see if they need new reviewers.
Not sure if you can write a book review?
Since most of the sites above will want you to write a book review after reading the book, you need to know how to go about it.
It’s one of those things that seems easy until you sit down to do it! “How to Write a Simple Book Review” is a popular, inexpensive e-book available on Amazon that will guide you through the process to ensure that writer’s block doesn’t arise as you prepare to give your review.
Tips for Getting Accepted as a Book Review
To increase your chances of being selected, make sure your review sample seems natural and thoughtful – avoid sounding too promotional or robotic.
If a site asks for references, include examples of previous writing, blog links, or even detailed reviews from Goodreads.
What makes a good book review?
A good book review gives a balanced overview of the plot, tone, and writing style, without spoiling key details.
It is also worth mentioning who the book is best for (e.g. thriller fans, memoir lovers, etc.). This kind of helpful feedback is what authors and editors appreciate most.
In conclusion
While this list may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. There are opportunities if you are willing to seek them out and exploit them. Although book reviewers don’t make a lot of money, they make money doing something that most of them enjoy.
Often, authors will seek out book reviews for future testimonials, which can lead to greater visibility of the book and future work for book reviewers.
Another route you might consider as a book reviewer is to offer book review writing as a paid service in your freelance writing business or virtual assistant company. You can charge based on the length of the review or the number of pages in the book.
If you already have a blog or a strong social media presence, you can even pitch self-published authors directly. Many actively seek exposure and are happy to pay a small fee for an honest, well-written review.
Again, if you really love reading, what do you have to lose? Maybe a little sleep, but most avid book readers have been missing it for years!
Good luck to anyone pursuing one of these opportunities.
Leisa Good has worked in the corporate world and has also managed and operated a full-time virtual assistant business since 2006.. She wrote the eBook on this one! She is also a PFYP certified career coach and owner of the blog, Powerfully designed for success. It allows people aged 50 and over to find fun, flexible and financially rewarding work, now and in retirement. However, this time it will be work/life on their terms.
