What Company Pays $200 for Finishing a Novel?

Inkitt is a reputable digital publishing platform that pays $200 to writers who complete their first full novel draft on its website. This program is open to authors worldwide, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Inkitt’s goal is to help new writers finish long-form fiction and source potential manuscripts for its AI-powered platform, Galatea.

As of 2025, Inkitt remains one of the most credible and legitimate platforms offering payment for novel completion. In contrast, WordRated’s “Bibliophile at Large” program was discontinued in 2023 and no longer pays for reading or writing activities.

For writers looking for legitimate ways to get paid to finish a novel in 2025, Inkitt is a trusted and verified option.

If you’ve ever dreamed about turning your love of reading into a paycheck, you might be surprised to learn that someone wants to pay you $200 for every novel you read online. This opportunity, though rare, was once offered by a company called WordsRated, which ran a unique program paying avid readers to not only finish novels but analyze them in detail. While that specific program ended in 2024, the idea of getting paid to read novels is alive and well through various other platforms.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Which company is known for paying $200 per finished novel
• Why they paid this amount and how the program worked
• Whether this opportunity still exists in 2025
• Other platforms where you can get paid to read books
• How to qualify and maximize your chances for paid reading gigs
• What exactly counts as a “novel” in these programs
• Tips for turning paid reading into a career or side hustle

Let’s dive in and explore how readers can get compensated in the literary world — and where to find legitimate opportunities today.

Which Company Pays $200 for Finishing a Novel?

The most prominent company known for paying $200 for reading and analyzing a novel was WordsRated. This company ran a program called the Bibliophile-at-Large initiative from around 2022 through mid-2024.

WordsRated is a non-commercial research organization focused on conducting data-driven literary research. They paid contractors, called “Bibliophiles-at-Large,” to read selected novels, mostly bestsellers, and submit detailed data about character representation, gender balance, narrative elements, and even animal appearances in the story—an approach that mirrors the detailed feedback found in book critique services and the analytical depth expected from professional literary review writing.

Why $200 Per Novel?

The high payout was justified because this wasn’t just casual reading. Contractors had to provide specific, quantifiable information such as:

• Counting the number of sentences spoken by male vs. female characters
• Noting which animals appear and how often
• Tracking narrative details that would feed into academic or publishing industry research

This level of detailed analysis took several hours per book, often extending over multiple reading sessions. The $200 fee was meant to compensate for the time, skill, and attention required—similar to the analytical precision expected in manuscript editing services and the narrative focus demanded by expert novel writers.

How Did It Work?

• WordsRated sent participants free copies of the novels to be analyzed.
• Readers would complete the analysis according to structured guidelines.
• After submitting their detailed reports, they would receive payment.
• The research focus shifted over time; in 2025, the organization looked closely at gender representation in novels on the New York Times bestseller lists.

Is WordsRated’s Bibliophile-at-Large Program Still Running?

Unfortunately, no. The program officially ended in mid-2024. However, WordsRated continues to publish insightful research on literature and representation, and they may reopen similar opportunities in the future.

What Other Companies or Platforms Pay You to Read Books?

While WordsRated’s program was unique and generous, it’s no longer available. Fortunately, several other legitimate platforms pay readers for book reviews, beta reading, audiobook narration, or other literary services. The pay range is usually lower than $200 per book but can still be lucrative if you build a reputation.

Reedsy Discovery

• Reedsy Discovery is a marketplace for book reviewers, focusing mainly on independent authors.
• Reviewers can earn up to $50 per review, typically through tips or commissions.
• The platform does not require you to buy books; you get free access to titles in exchange for honest reviews.
• It’s beginner-friendly but rewards detailed, well-written reviews.

OnlineBookClub.org

• This site offers paid book review opportunities ranging from $5 to $60 per review, depending on length and detail.
• You read the book, write your review, and submit it for payment.
• They provide the first book free, with others sometimes available at discounted prices.

ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

• If you enjoy reading aloud, ACX offers audiobook narration opportunities.
• Narrators can earn royalties or flat fees, depending on their contract.
• It requires audio recording skills and equipment but pays well for those with voice talent.

Kirkus Reviews

• Kirkus is a professional book review outlet that pays from $50 up to $500+ for detailed critiques.
• They usually look for experienced editors, writers, or critics.
• This platform is excellent for building credibility in literary analysis.

Freelance Platforms: Fiverr & Upwork

• Many independent authors hire beta readers, editors, or reviewers on Fiverr and Upwork.
• Prices vary widely from $20 to $200+ per job, depending on the scope and your experience.
• This is a flexible option if you want to set your rates and work schedule.

Comparison Table: Paid Reading Platforms Overview

What Exactly Counts as a “Novel” in These Programs?

Many readers wonder what qualifies as a “novel” when applying to these paid reading gigs.

Length and Format

• Typically, a novel is a work of fiction longer than 40,000 words. Most novels fall between 80,000 and 120,000 words.
• It should have a structured narrative—a beginning, middle, and end.
• Short stories or novellas usually don’t qualify unless specified.

Content Expectations

• The story should have developed characters and dialogue.
• There will be clear themes such as love, conflict, or adventure.
• You may be asked to track character interactions, plot devices, or specific elements (like animals or gender representation).

How to Qualify for Paid Reading Roles

Getting paid to read books isn’t usually just about simply finishing the novel. In fact, most programs expect much more from participants. To begin with, they require strong reading comprehension and attention to detail to ensure the material is understood thoroughly. Additionally, the ability to follow analytical guidelines or answer specific questionnaires is often necessary to meet the program’s standards. Moreover, providing clear, well-written feedback or accurate data submission is a key part of the job. Equally important, participants must demonstrate reliability by consistently meeting deadlines.

On top of that, some companies prefer candidates with educational backgrounds in English, journalism, communications, or literary studies. However, it’s worth noting that passion and strong skills can often outweigh formal degrees. Ultimately, quality work, attention to detail, and dedication tend to matter more than academic credentials alone.

Pro Tip: Build a Portfolio

Start by writing detailed book reviews on platforms like Goodreads, Medium, or your own blog. This showcases your analytical abilities and writing clarity. Sample work helps when applying for paid gigs.

Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings Reading Novels

• Join local or online book clubs to practice discussing books critically.
• Volunteer for beta reading or freelancing on Fiverr or Upwork to build experience.
• Improve your literary analysis skills through online courses or workshops.
• Network with authors, publishers, and literary communities.
• Stay alert for new programs like WordsRated by subscribing to newsletters or following literary research organizations.

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Final Thoughts

While the WordsRated Bibliophile-at-Large program was a standout opportunity to earn $200 per novel, it ended in 2025. But the world of paid reading is evolving, with plenty of alternative platforms offering income for book lovers.

By honing your reading, writing, and analytical skills, and tapping into the right platforms, you can turn your love of novels into a rewarding side hustle or even a full-time career.

Opportunities to get paid to read books are growing, whether you write detailed reviews, work as a beta reader, narrate audiobooks, or offer freelance literary criticism — as long as you know where to look.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which company pays $200 for finishing a novel?

A: WordsRated paid $200 per novel under their Bibliophile-at-Large program, which ended in 2024.

Q: Can I still get paid to read books?

A: Yes! Platforms like Reedsy Discovery, OnlineBookClub.org, and freelance sites offer paid reading roles.

Q: Do I need experience to get paid to read?

A: Experience helps but is not always necessary. Strong reading comprehension and writing skills are key.

Q: How long is a novel for paid reading purposes?

A: Typically 40,000+ words with a structured narrative.