Is Online Book Club Worth Joining for Book Reviews and Legitimacy Concerns?

Online Book Club has captured the attention of many readers eager to make some extra income through simple book reviews. However, the journey of some reviewers on this platform has been fraught with difficulties and doubts. In this article, we explore the legitimacy of the site, the experiences of its members, and the potential benefits versus the drawbacks of participating.

Legitimacy of Online Book Club

There are conflicting views on the legitimacy of Online Book Club. Some argue that it is a legitimate platform for earning money through book reviews, while others share their negative experiences that raise concerns about the validity of the site.

Positive Experiences with Online Book Club

For those who have had positive experiences, Online Book Club has been a rewarding platform for book lovers. Joining the site is straightforward, and the process of earning rewards, such as Amazon gift cards, is user-friendly and transparent. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to share their thoughts on books and earn some extra income in the process.

Negative Experiences and Concerns

However, the experiences of certain reviewers have been significantly more problematic. Two specific instances highlight the challenges and concerns associated with the site:

Account Suspension Incident

One reviewer, who was active for three months, had their account suspended after they were owed 40 dollars for three book reviews. Despite multiple attempts to contact the webmaster, Scott, on both Facebook and LinkedIn, the issue remained unresolved. This incident highlights the questionable management and payment practices of the site.

Demand for Frequent Free Reviews

Another reviewer found that the success of the site was heavily reliant on doing a large number of free reviews rather than focusing on paid ones. This mindset can be discouraging and exacerbates the feeling of being taken advantage of. The requirement to engage in numerous free reviews to maintain standing on the site can be overwhelming and demotivating for more productive reviewers.

What to Consider Before Joining Online Book Club

Before embarking on any venture, it is crucial to assess the legitimacy and reliability of the platform. If you are considering joining Online Book Club, here are some key points to consider:

Read Reviews

Start by reading reviews from other participants on platforms like Trustpilot or Goodreads to understand the experiences of others. This can provide valuable insights into both the positive and negative aspects of the site.

Check Payment Terms

Clarify the payment terms and ensure that you will receive the promised remuneration for your reviews. Be wary of sites that do not provide clear payment information or have a history of withholding payments.

Assess the Management Team

Determine whether the management team is responsive and reliable. Contact them through various communication channels to gauge their commitment to the site and its members.

NetGalley and Book Reviewing

Additionally, it is worth noting that another platform, NetGalley, has its own set of requirements for book reviewers. For example, reviewers must be Amazon customers to accept review offers. This can sometimes be frustrating for those who prefer to purchase books from alternative retailers like Kobo or Google Books.

Conclusion

While Online Book Club offers opportunities for book lovers to earn extra income, it is important to be cautious and well-informed. Joining any such platform should be a decision based on thorough research and personal comfort with the terms and conditions.