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Free author website templates are easy to find and easy to waste time on, because a template is only free if the platform under it is. BookBub’s author website tool is built for authors and free to use. systeme.io’s template library is free and adds a reader list and a book checkout the others do not. WordPress themes are free and cost you hosting. The shortlist below is sorted by what the template sits on, not how it looks.
- 1Our pick
systeme.io templates
Free, then $17/mo
Best for: an author site with a reader magnet, an email sequence, and direct book sales
The catch: templates are generic; you adapt one rather than pick an author theme
Try systeme.io free - 2
BookBub Author Websites
Free (not verified today)
Best for: author-specific templates with book pages and retailer links built in
The catch: tied to their platform; limited beyond the author use case
- 3
WordPress themes
Free theme, paid hosting
Best for: authors who want full control and a real blog
The catch: hosting, updates, and plugins are yours to manage
- 4
Carrd
$19/yr for Pro Standard
Best for: a one-page site with book covers and buy links
The catch: no email list or store
Prices and free-plan limits checked September 17, 2026 on each vendor's pricing page.
What to change on the template
Templates are written for businesses, so the first job is stripping the marketing voice out. Replace the hero headline with your name and what you write. Swap the feature grid for your books. Replace testimonials with review quotes and any awards. Delete the pricing section. The result should read like an author, not a software company.
Adding a reader list
The single most valuable element on an author site is a form offering something to read. A prequel, a deleted chapter, a short story. On systeme.io the form, the automatic delivery email, and the sequence that follows are all on the free plan, which is why it leads this list. The email marketing for authors page covers what to send afterwards.
Adding a book checkout
Selling signed copies or a direct ebook keeps the retailer margin. A product page with a checkout runs free at 0% platform fee. For print, state shipping and timescales clearly, and be honest with yourself about packing envelopes.
Free plan, no card. Affiliate link; we earn a commission on paid plans.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get a free author website template?
systeme.io's template library is free with the platform. BookBub offers author-specific templates. Free WordPress themes need paid hosting.
Do I need a website as an author?
Yes, for a reader list you own. Retailers and social platforms do not give you your readers' contact details.
What pages does an author website need?
Home, books, about, contact, and a newsletter sign-up. Five pages is a complete author site.
Can I sell books from my own website?
Yes. A checkout on systeme.io takes payments at 0% platform fee; you handle fulfilment for print.
Related: web design for authors, Tertulia author website builder.