📖 For Readers

Read Books Before They're Published

Get early access to manuscripts from talented authors, give meaningful feedback, build your reader reputation, and shape the next great book — all for free.

Why join Reader Guild?

Be part of the creative process from day one.

Early Access to Manuscripts

Read alpha and beta copies before anyone else. Be among the first to experience a story.

Genre-Matched Campaigns

We only show you campaigns in genres you love. No sifting through Romance when you read Thriller.

Build Your Reputation

Earn badges and climb the reader rankings based on quality and timeliness of your feedback.

Connect With Authors

Build real relationships with the writers behind the books. Your name might end up in an acknowledgement.

Read on Your Schedule

Authors set generous deadlines. Apply to projects that fit your reading pace and availability.

Shape Published Books

Your feedback directly influences how a book turns out. Make a real, lasting impact on published literature.

How it works

From signup to reading your first manuscript in minutes.

1

Create your free reader account

Sign up in seconds and set your genre preferences so we can match you with the right campaigns.

2

Browse available projects

See campaigns from authors looking for exactly your kind of reader. Filter by genre, length, and reader type.

3

Apply to a campaign

Send the author a short application. Tell them a bit about yourself and your reading background.

4

Get approved and receive the manuscript

If the author selects you, you'll get access to their manuscript directly through the platform.

5

Read and give feedback

Read the book and submit your feedback within the agreed timeframe. Authors value honest, specific notes.

6

Earn reputation and unlock more

High-quality feedback earns you badges and boosts your reader rank, giving you access to more campaigns.

What we ask in return

Joining is free. But authors are counting on you — here's our reader commitment.

Only apply to campaigns you genuinely intend to finish

Submit your feedback by the deadline you agreed to

Give honest, specific feedback — not just “it was great”

Treat manuscripts as confidential until the author publishes

Communicate with the author if you need more time

Ready to start reading?

Join thousands of readers getting early access to great books — completely free.

Join Free as a Reader