If you're hunting for a free copy of 'Acquitted', there are a few safe and satisfying routes I usually try before resorting to sketchy sites. First off, figure out what format it is — novel,
webnovel, webtoon, manhwa, or fanfic — because that changes where it's likely to be shared legally. Official sources like the author's website, publisher pages, or platform-hosted series (
wattpad,
Royal Road, Webnovel, Webtoon,
Tapas) sometimes host chapters for free or run limited-time promotions. I always check the author’s social accounts too; creators often post the first chapter free, or link to
free reads and limited-time giveaways. If the creator is active, supporting them by following or sharing their posts is a tiny gesture that often gets you early access to free content.
If you prefer fully legit copies and borrowing over owning, your local library's digital services are gold. Apps like Libby (by OverDrive) and Hoopla let you borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and comics for free with a library card — I’ve found unexpected gems there more than once. Another underrated option is the Internet Archive/Open Library, which lends digitized books under a controlled digital lending system; you might get a temporary borrow slot for 'Acquitted' if it’s been archived. For serialized work, check publisher newsletters or ebook stores for limited-time free promos: authors and indie publishers often run “Free First Volume” giveaways on Kindle, Google Play, or Kobo to entice readers.
I try to avoid torrent sites and unlicensed scanlation pages because they harm creators and can be risky for malware. That said, there are ethical ways to read without paying upfront: many platforms offer free sample chapters, subscriptions with trial periods (Scribd, Kindle Unlimited), or ad-supported reading on official apps where the rights are cleared. If 'Acquitted' is an older work, public domain repositories like Project Gutenberg are worth a glance, though most modern titles won’t be there. Another tip I use: set a Google Alert for the title plus terms like “free chapter,” “free ebook,” or “author giveaway.” You'd be surprised how often a price drop or promotional giveaway pops up months after release.
If you still can’t find a free legal copy, consider contacting the author politely — many indie writers will send a chapter, point you to free samples, or tell you where to safely read their work. Buying a cheap ebook or borrowing from a library is a small way to ensure creators keep making stuff you love. Personally, tracking down legit free reads feels like a mini-adventure, and when I finally land a free, legal copy of something I’ve been curious about, it’s super satisfying. Happy hunting, and I hope 'Acquitted' hooks you as much as similar guilty-pleasure reads have
hooked me.