Discreet In-Browser Reader

Read ePub quietly in an inconspicuous browser tab without exposing the title or content.

Problem

A Show HN introduces Guarded Reader, a 'discreet' browser-based ePub reader, implying people need to hide what they read at work, on shared screens, or in public. Normal readers show book titles, covers, and progress, easily revealing what you are reading.

Solution

Build a browser extension or pure front-end PWA that renders ePub as a coverless, titleless, shelf-less text view, with a hotkey to instantly hide or disguise it as a normal document page. Store progress and bookmarks locally with encryption and never show recently read items.

Users

People who want to read discreetly at the office or on shared screens, plus students and professionals who need to hide reading history.

MVP

Only ePub parsing and a stealth reading view; a hotkey to disguise the page instantly; locally encrypted progress storage; no cloud sync and no social features.

Revenue

One-time purchase at $5–10, or freemium with premium disguise themes and multi-device sync. Acquire users through privacy communities and HN launches.

Why now

Remote work and screen sharing make private reading a real need that mainstream readers ignore, and a browser extension is a low-cost way for an indie developer to validate it.