How to Get Your API Keys
Last Updated: November 14, 2025
To use AI eBook Suite, you need an API key from one of these providers: OpenAI, OpenRouter, or Straico. This guide will walk you through getting your API key from each provider.
โก Important:
Your API key is like a password. Keep it secure and never share it publicly. You'll be charged by the provider based on your AI usage.
OpenAI API Key
OpenAI provides access to GPT-4, GPT-4 Turbo, GPT-3.5, and other models. New users receive $5 in free credits.
- Create an Account: Visit platform.openai.com and click "Sign up" in the top right corner. You can sign up with email, Google, Microsoft, or Apple ID.
- Verify Your Email: Check your email inbox for a verification message from OpenAI and click the confirmation link.
- Phone Verification: OpenAI requires phone verification to prevent abuse. Enter your phone number when prompted and enter the SMS verification code. Note: Each phone number can only be used for one OpenAI account.
- Set Up Billing: Click on "Billing" in the dashboard and add a valid credit or debit card. You'll need to purchase API credits (minimum $5) to use the API beyond the free trial.
- Generate Your API Key:
- Navigate to "API keys" in the left sidebar
- Click "Create new secret key"
- Give your key a descriptive name (e.g., "AI eBook Suite")
- Copy the generated API key immediately and save it securely
- Important: You won't be able to view this key again after closing the dialog
๐ก Pricing:
OpenAI charges per token (roughly per word). Prices vary by model. Check current pricing at openai.com/api/pricing
OpenRouter API Key
OpenRouter gives you access to multiple AI models (GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, and more) through a single API. It offers competitive pricing and free models.
- Create an Account: Visit openrouter.ai and click "Sign in" in the top right corner, then select "Sign up". You can use Google, GitHub, or email authentication.
- Add Credits (Recommended): OpenRouter uses a prepaid credit system. Go to the "Credits" page and add funds to your account. The minimum is usually $5, though some free models are available without credits.
- Navigate to API Keys: Click on "Keys" in the navigation menu, or visit openrouter.ai/keys directly.
- Create Your Key:
- Click the "Create Key" button
- Give it a descriptive name (e.g., "AI eBook Suite")
- Optionally set a credit limit for safety
- Click "Create"
- Copy and Store Your Key: Immediately copy your secret API key and store it in a secure location. You won't be able to see this key again after leaving the page.
๐ก Why OpenRouter?
OpenRouter offers access to multiple AI providers through one API, often at lower prices. You can switch between GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, and other models without managing multiple API keys.
Straico API Key
Straico provides access to multiple AI models with a simple credit-based system and subscription plans.
- Create an Account: Visit straico.com and sign up for an account.
- Purchase a Subscription: Go to the Pricing Plan page and select a package that suits your needs. Skip this step if you already have an active subscription.
- Navigate to API Settings:
- Log in to platform.straico.com
- Click on your avatar in the top-right corner
- Select "User settings" from the menu
- Go to "Your preferences"
- Scroll down to find "Connect with Straico API"
- Create or Copy Your API Key:
- Click "Create API Key" if you don't have one
- Enter a name (e.g., "AI eBook Suite") and click "Save"
- Click the copy icon beside your new key to copy it
๐ก Straico Features:
Straico offers subscription-based access to multiple AI models with predictable monthly costs, making it easier to budget your AI expenses.
Next Steps
Once you have your API key from any of these providers:
- Register for AI eBook Suite: Create your account here
- Subscribe: Choose your subscription plan
- Add Your API Key: In your dashboard settings, add your API key
- Start Creating: Begin writing your first eBook!
๐ Security Best Practices:
Never share your API key publicly or commit it to code repositories. Treat it like a password. Set spending limits with your provider to avoid unexpected charges.
Get Started with AI eBook Suite โ