‘It’s totally unhinged’: is the book world turning against Goodreads?
The influential user review site has suffered a year of controversies, from cancelled book deals to review-bombing, and exposed a dark side to the industry
Goodreads and the Dark Side of Book Reviews
Several authors have recently experienced the negative side of Goodreads, an online platform where readers post book reviews. The platform has the power to make or break new authors. Some authors have received scathing reviews from other users, and it was later discovered that these reviews were posted by a debut author using fake accounts. This incident has raised further questions about Goodreads and its impact on the publishing industry.
Bethanne Patrick, a critic, author, and podcaster, explains that Goodreads has a significant influence on the book world because it reaches a wide audience outside of the traditional publishing ecosystem. Many people, including publishers, agents, authors, and readers, go to Goodreads to see what others are interested in. However, for some authors, Goodreads has become a toxic work environment that can damage their books even before they are published.
Goodreads and Unhealthy Behavior
Goodreads allows users to review unpublished titles, and publishers often send advance copies to readers in exchange for online reviews. However, in October, Goodreads acknowledged the need to protect the authenticity of ratings and reviews. The platform introduced measures to limit the submission of ratings and reviews during times of unusual activity, including instances of "review bombing". Such activities are not tolerated and undermine the trust within the community.
Critics argue that Goodreads lacks oversight and moderation, unlike professional publications. The platform has been involved in previous controversies, including author Elizabeth Gilbert postponing the release of her book after receiving heavy criticism on Goodreads. The lack of moderation on Goodreads has led to authors and reviewers avoiding the platform and seeking alternative ways to engage with readers.
Concerns about Bias and Abuse on Goodreads
There are growing concerns about the manipulation of Goodreads and its potential to harm authors, particularly those from marginalized communities. Some authors, mostly people of color and queer authors, have been targeted through review bombing and unfair criticism. This lack of moderation allows individuals to abuse the platform and impact the careers of these authors.
Many industry professionals have lost faith in Goodreads due to the platform's frequent controversies and lack of protection for authors. The influence of Goodreads is reportedly diminishing, and publishers are reconsidering the importance of the platform in promoting books. Authors have been advocating for safer spaces and alternatives to Goodreads, as they believe it is an unhealthy and unreliable platform.
