If you enjoy reading but are hesitant to spend a lot of money on new books, there are numerous free options available.

To help you satisfy your literary cravings without breaking the bank, I have compiled a list of 13 legitimate sites where you can access a wide variety of free books.

And the best part? These books are completely free of charge and trustworthy, so you can indulge in your favorite genres without any worry.

Here are 13 best sites to get free books:

1. Netgalley

Netgalley is a platform that connects readers with Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs) of books from authors, marketers, and publishing houses.

By signing up and indicating your interests, you can request free copies of books from publishers.

If you provide helpful feedback, you may be added to a publisher’s auto-approve list, which provides you with early access to new releases from your favorite publishing houses.

Alternatively, you can explore the “free reads” section to add books to your shelf without going through the request panel.

2. Edelweiss

Edelweiss operates similarly to Netgalley in that authors and/or publishing houses distribute Advanced Reader Copies to interested readers, with books given on an approval basis.

However, Edelweiss also offers a section with books that are immediately available for download and ready to read.

The downloaded e-books typically have DRM-protection, meaning that they can only be read using an application like Adobe Digital Editions.

3. Project Gutenberg

For those who adore classic literature, Project Gutenberg , offers a selection of free digital copies of beloved works by authors such as Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Virginia Woolf, and more.

Simply visit their homepage to peruse their vast collection of literary treasures and select your favorites.

Consider this a warm welcome in advance!

4. Libro.fm ALC Program

Audiobooks are not only amazing, but they’re also fantabulous!

While they haven’t been around since the beginning of time (just kidding), they’ve certainly had a positive impact on many people’s lives.

If you’re an audiobook enthusiast like myself, then you’re probably itching to get your hands on the latest releases from your favorite publishers.

Luckily, Libro FM’s Audio Listening Copy (ALC) Program provides a solution.

This program distributes the latest audiobooks to a select group of listeners, and all you need to do is apply through their official website, get approved, and wait for your goodies to arrive in your account.

So why wait? Apply now and get ready to enjoy some fantastic listening!

5. Bookbub

Bookbub not only connects readers and authors, but it also offers a delightful bonus: free books for readers!

These free books can be claimed from various merchants, including Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Playbooks, Audible, and many more.

With their vast collection of series-starters, you can immerse yourself in a world of literary bliss.

Browse through Bookbub’s selection and discover your next favorite book today.

6. Authors

Some authors provide copies of their books to readers or reviewers in exchange for an unbiased assessment.

Additionally, you can participate in book promotion platforms or join street-teams where you may receive complimentary copies of books in exchange for your contributions.

Finally, you can locate authors on social media platforms such as Facebook groups, Twitter, or any other social media channels.

7. Giveaways

Many opportunities for giveaways are available, and by participating, you stand a chance of winning a free book.

The giveaway organizer may require you to complete a task, and the book is awarded to the winner.

However, it’s crucial to ensure that the giveaway is legitimate, and you should exercise caution.

Only provide your address if you have confirmed the authenticity of the organizer.

Keep your eyes open for giveaways on various platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, and blogs. Happy winning!

8. Book Swapping

One effective way to increase your book collection is by participating in book-swapping programs.

By swapping books with others, you can turn one book into many.

You can find book-swapping platforms nearby and negotiate with others whether to make the exchange permanent or temporary.

If it’s a temporary swap, be sure to keep the book clean and in good condition, so that the owner will not have any complaints.

So, start swapping your books with others and expand your reading material today!

9. Publishers

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of requesting through Edelweiss or Netgalley, consider requesting a book directly from the publishers.

Simply send a cold email stating your competence, social media reach, and your intentions.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that rejection may occur multiple times, so keep trying and sending those emails.

10. Booksprout

Booksprout is a platform that operates in a similar way to Netgalley and Edelweiss, but with a notable advantage: it offers a broad selection of self-published authors.

To obtain a downloadable copy, you simply need to create an account and request a book.

However, it is crucial to respect the author’s copyright by not distributing the book. Doing so may result in sanctions.

Additionally, it is suggested that you leave an honest review of the book on your own platforms.

11. Riveted by Simon Teen

Rivetedlit, a Simon & Schuster imprint, offers a monthly selection of 3-5 books available for free.

These books cannot be downloaded and must be read in your browser.

Their excellent collection caters to fans of Young Adult literature.

For March 2022, their full-read picks include Chain of Gold by Cassandra Clare, The Weight of Our Sky by Hanna Alkaf, The Degenerates by J. Albert Mann, among others.

Additionally, they provide extended excerpts of select books that are available for the entire month.

To access these books, simply sign up and navigate to the ‘FREE READS‘ tab. From there, you can indulge in reading to your heart’s content.

12. Reedsy Discovery Reviewer Program

If you want to be among the first to read the latest releases in your favorite genres, consider joining the Reedsy Reviewer program.

To get started, create a Reedsy account (if you haven’t already) and click on the ‘become a reviewer’ tab in the footer.

Fill out the required information and wait for confirmation. Once you are accepted, you will receive an email confirming your enrollment. Happy reading!

13. Newsletters

Keep an eye out for freebies in newsletters from authors and publishers.

Usually, you will need to sign up, and once you have completed the process, the ebook will be sent to you automatically.

You can find links to the newsletters at the front or back of a book.

Additionally, some authors may offer an extended epilogue for free if you sign up for their newsletter.

To sum up, discovering free books online has never been easier, with several legitimate websites to choose from.

You can explore various genres, read bestsellers, and even discover new authors without spending a dime.

If you’re looking to build your digital library, why not take advantage of these fantastic resources?

Browse our list of recommended websites and start your free reading journey today.

Don’t forget to share this article with your book-loving friends and family members, so they too can benefit from these free resources.

Together, we can help spread the joy of reading and encourage more people to discover the wonderful world of books.

So what are you waiting for? Start exploring and happy reading!