Discover the best books to read online for free. Read and listen to literary gems with these epic tales available on the web — without spending a cent!

We have curated a list of the best books to read online for free that span across genres and cater to all age groups. They are available as free eBooks and, in some instances, audiobooks.

Did you know that an estimated 130 million books have been published in the history of humanity? A vast number of these are now available in the public domain! Copyright laws no longer restrict many classic books. Therefore, they are free for every book lover.

If you’re looking for more modern works, don’t worry. There are also contemporary novels with unexpired copyrights available at no cost — all you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a reliable internet connection. It’s no good being interrupted by buffering just as the plot is revealed!

You can access free books online through open sources like Project Gutenberg, ManyBooks, Google Books, Open Library, and Internet Archive. 

Other free books can be accessed via applications like OverDrive’s Libby App and cloudLibrary that do not request subscription fees or in-app purchases. However, they will require a library card from your local library.

What a wonderful age we’re in now, with everything available at our fingertips. As Stephen King once said, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” In this article, we bring this magic to you. Happy reading!

Feeling a bit ​​lackluster? Check out our roundup of the best inspirational books!

Free Online Romance Books

1. The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery

The Blue Castle is truly a book worth losing yourself in. It captivates readers with its unique blend of romance, humor, and inspiring self-discovery. Valancy Stirling, an old maid by societal standards, finds herself breaking free from her stifling routine and judgemental family after receiving some life-altering news. This leads her to the “Blue Castle,” both a physical place and a symbol of her newfound freedom. 

L.M. Montgomery, first known for her 1908 book Anne of Green Gables, showcases here her unparalleled ability to create vivid, breathtaking scenery and emotionally complex (but very relatable) characters.

“If you can sit in silence with a person for half an hour and yet be entirely comfortable, you and that person can be friends.”

Lucy Maud Montgomery, The Blue Castle

2. Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

Is there one person alive now who hasn’t heard of Romeo and Juliet? Authored by the legendary Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare, the tale is about two young lovers — Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. Their affection for each other is tragically caught in the crossfire of their clashing families. 

The book has gathered numerous accolades over the centuries and remains a staple in English literature curriculums worldwide. One of the most famous adaptations of this tale is its 1986 movie adaptation by Franco Zeffirelli. It was considered slightly controversial due to a scene of partial nudity.

Romeo and Juliet is worth reading for its poetic language, dramatic plot, and the timeless themes it explores. This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions — all within its compact five acts.

“My bounty is as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.”

William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Dive into the world of early 19th-century England with Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. This classic romance set the tone for many latter-day love stories, all trying to emulate the ungovernable and arrogant main characters that have charmed readers for centuries. 

From its first publication in 1813, the novel has enjoyed immense popularity, inspiring numerous adaptations. This includes the iconic 2005 film starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen. 

Aside from narrating a renowned romance, the book also offers a fascinating lens into the societal norms of the Regency era.

“A lady’s imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.”

Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

4. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

John Green is an award-winning author hailed as one of the most famed young adult novelists of the 21st century. He has a strong social media following as he actively engages with his readers. 

His talents shine through his clear writing and heartrending plots, such as in his 2012 book, The Fault in Our Stars. This tale of young love and heartbreak sold over 23 million copies and was adapted into a 2014 film.

It follows two youths who, despite being both sick, found friendship and love. Apart from being a romance book, The Fault in Our Stars also offers lessons on identity and morality.

“You don’t get to choose if you get hurt in this world…but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices.”

John Green, The Fault in Our Stars

Discover the best young adult books to add to your bookshelf!

5. Nora Roberts Land by Ava Miles

With just the title alone, readers can surmise that Nora Roberts is one of Ava Miles’ favorite authors. Roberts is a prolific author of over 200 books and has been a constant name in the romance genre since 1981.

Nora Roberts Land is Miles’s debut book. This 2013 novel also kickstarted Miles’ Dare Valley series. The story follows Meredith Hale after her breakup. Instead of moping around, she sets out on a mission to reach her happily ever after (which she lovingly dubs her “Nora Roberts Land”). 

This USA Today Best Book of the Year is available on Open Library in a virtual book viewer or free audiobook.

“In the grand scheme of things, the world doesn’t end when our faults clash because it’s cushioned by love and commitment. ”

Ava Miles, Nora Roberts Land

Free Online Mystery and Thriller Books

6. Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

An extraordinary tale of obsession, Moby-Dick is about Captain Ahab and his pursuit of the enormous white whale, Moby Dick. Through the eyes of the ship’s newcomer, Ishmael, Herman Melville takes the readers in a deep dive not only of the ocean but also of character and human nature.

A word of caution: Some may find it a hard read for its subject matter as well as its whaling jargon. To help you in reading, try a Moby-Dick version with annotations.

“I know not all that may be coming, but be it what it will, I’ll go to it laughing.”

Herman Melville, Moby-Dick

7. A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle

The 1886 tale A Study in Scarlet sparks the beginning of the legendary detective series featuring Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. This is where the dynamic duo take on their first case together — a grisly murder in London that leaves the city in fearful anticipation. It’s no wonder that this story sprouted an entire Holmes franchise, including TV adaptations and films. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle continues to be one of the top favorite authors of mystery and thriller readers.

“What you do in this world is a matter of no consequence. The question is what can you make people believe you have done.”

Arthur Conan Doyle, A Study in Scarlet

8. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde’s only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, was published in 1890. This classic tells the riveting tale of a handsome young man in London, seemingly blessed with eternal youth. However, there is a price. 

Gray maintains a self-portrait locked away in his home that bears the brunt of his selfish and excessive lifestyle as while he remains untouched by time and action, his portrait ages, reflecting his soul’s degradation. 

The novel’s beautifully written narrative, laced with the Irish playwright’s distinctive wit and astute observations on art, beauty, and morality, makes it a favorite among book lovers. Despite the initial outrage it sparked as it was deemed “scandalous” during its time, the novel now has many literary and cinematic adaptations.

“The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame.”

Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray

9. Forget Me Not by Kristen Middleton

Forget Me Not is the first installment of USA Today and New York Times bestseller Kristen Middleton’s Summit Lake series. In this 2018 psychological thriller, single mom Amanda Schutz is singled out by a lunatic. Despite the troubling “gifts,” she receives from her stalker, the police can’t help, leaving Amanda vulnerable.

Follow Amanda as she tries to unravel who the bad guy is, all while trying to keep herself alive. Forget Me Not is also available on Kindle for free.

“I’ve asked my wife why bad things happen to good people and she thinks it’s to wake us up. She says that we have the ability to change the world and find happiness. We just have to work and clean up the negative areas in our lives. Once you find inner peace, you can project an outer peace.”

Kristen Middleton, Forget Me Not

10. The Bachman Books by Stephen King

The Bachman Books is a collection of four early Stephen King novels. This 1985 quartet includes Rage, The Long Walk, Roadwork, and The Running Man.

Each showcases King’s writing prowess as he spins captivating stories. It garnered him an additional layer of fame and respect among readers and critics alike. Notably, The Running Man was turned into a hit movie in 1987 starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.

“You can’t stop your mind; the damn thing just keeps right on going.”

Stephen King, The Bachman Books

Free Online Crime Books

11. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

If you want to read about the darker recesses of the human psyche, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s 1866 novel Crime and Punishment is a must. It follows the tormented journey of Rodion Raskolnikov, who formulates a plan to kill a dishonest pawnbroker. 

Dostoyevsky’s book eventually tackles the moral dilemmas of guilt, redemption, and the struggle for salvation. It has been adapted multiple times for screen and stage, including a 2002 TV mini-series that brings the haunting tale to life.

“Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.”

Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment

12. The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie