I. Introduction
Kindle owners know the struggle of wanting to read new books but not wanting to spend the money. But what if we told you that there is a secret to free eBooks that you may not know about? Fear no more, as we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to accessing free books on your Kindle.
II. Utilize Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited program
Kindle Unlimited is a subscription service that gives you access to over one million eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines. For only $9.99 per month, Kindle users have unlimited access to books of various genres, from bestsellers to classics.
To sign up for the free trial, simply visit the Kindle Unlimited website and click ‘Start Your 30-Day Free Trial.’ Once logged in, you can browse through the catalog and start reading books right away.
To make the most of your trial, use the ‘Popular’ tab at the top of the page to see what others are reading. You can also use the ‘Recommended’ section to see books based on your past preferences. Lastly, be sure to explore the ‘Editors’ Picks’ section for highly rated books selected by the Amazon team.
III. Amazon Prime Reading
Amazon Prime members also have the option to access books for free through Prime Reading. Unlike Kindle Unlimited, this program allows users to borrow up to 10 books at a time, including magazines and comics.
To access Prime Reading, simply select the ‘Prime Reading’ tab on the Kindle store. From there, you can browse through the available titles and download the ones that interest you. In addition, Amazon First Reads allows Prime members to download and read one free book a month before it is officially released.
IV. Bookbub
Bookbub is a website that helps readers find discounted and free eBooks that suit their interests. Through a daily email, users can receive personalized recommendations for books that are currently on sale or free to download.
To sign up for email notifications, head to the Bookbub website and create an account. From there, you can select your preferred genres and authors, and Bookbub will send you personalized deals straight to your inbox. Be sure to also check out their blog for reviews and book recommendations.
V. Project Gutenberg
Project Gutenberg offers over 60,000 free eBooks that are in the public domain. The site offers a wide range of books, from classics like ‘The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ to lesser-known works that may pique your interest.
To access Gutenberg’s books, simply visit their website and browse through the selection. Once you’ve found a book you’d like to read, click the ‘Kindle’ option underneath the ‘Download’ menu, and the book will be sent directly to your Kindle.
Note that as these books are in the public domain, they may not be the most recently published or best-reviewed books. However, they do offer a wide selection of reading material for free.
VI. Netgalley
Netgalley is a platform that gives readers access to advance reader copies (ARCs) of upcoming books in exchange for a review. Members of Netgalley can request books from publishers if they agree to read and share their thoughts on the book.
To create an account and request books for review, head to the Netgalley website and fill out the necessary information. Once you’ve requested a book, the publisher will review your profile and determine whether or not they would like to send you a copy.
To increase your approval rates, be sure to fill out your profile in its entirety, including your reviewing preferences and previous experience. Also, be sure to read the books and provide thoughtful, honest reviews to publishers in a timely manner.
VII. Library eBooks
Public libraries now offer eBooks for borrowing through apps such as Overdrive and Libby. By using these apps, users can access a wide variety of eBooks in the library’s catalog, all for free.
To access these eBooks as a Kindle user, simply download the Overdrive or Libby app and log in with your library card information. From there, you can browse through your library’s collection and borrow books directly to your Kindle.
Some popular libraries with extensive eBook collections include the New York Public Library, the Toronto Public Library, and the Los Angeles Public Library. Check with your local library to see what services they offer.
VIII. Conclusion
With Kindle Unlimited, Amazon Prime Reading, Bookbub, Project Gutenberg, Netgalley, and public libraries, accessing free books has never been easier. While each service has its own unique qualities, they all offer the same thing: free reading material right at your fingertips.
