Legality of using quotations found on Goodreads

[Rodney]

As an author looking for material, can I use (in my commercial book), anyone's quotation or the words I find on Goodreads? That could mean quotes from Goodreads members or other authors.
Anyone know?

[Jay]

GR does not own the quotations. They fall under Fair Use.

Here's a simple explanation: What Is Fair Use? from Stanford University Libraries.

The U.S. Copyright Office Fair Use Index tracks legal decisions concerning fair use, and the explanations are generally pretty clear.

If you deem a particular usage questionable, you should consult a copyright attorney.

[Paul]

I too am an author and would like to use the reviews of my novel in my marketing. Are reviews considered fair use?

[T.L.]

Paul wrote: "I too am an author and would like to use the reviews of my novel in my marketing. Are reviews considered fair use?"

I believe as long as you insert the review into quotation marks, and give a nod to the reviewer it's OK. The review is posted in a public forum and is for you.
One of the ad people I know recommends you use a coupe of reviews as quotes in your book listing/s.

[Paul]

That makes sense. Novels often have reviewers mention on the back book cover. So, if that's true, it's good news. I've wanted to use my reviews as they are all very good.

[Dwayne]

The very bottom line on questions like this is, if you have even a shred of doubt about the legality of using a quote and you really want to use it, consult a lawyer first.

[Grace]

Or you could just ask the reviewer. I think most would be flattered--I certainly would--by the offer, and then just save the exchange as a screenshot for proof, if legal problems ever occur, that yes the reviewer said using their quotes would be fine.

[Brenda]

I think you should distinguish between reviews published in magazines/newspapers/blogs, and reviews published here. Or on Amazon, for that matter. When I review a book here it is not for other prospective readers of the book, nor the author, nor the publisher. It is for me, mainly so that I don't forget I have read it. It is frightening, how often I find a thrilling book totally unfamiliar to me and learn, by putting the title into GR, that I read it four years ago.
Do ask permission, in all cases, and if someone says no, accept it.

[Paul]

Hmm. I wasn't aware that GR was not for other readers. I just did a review and posted it here on GR and it's available to anyone.

[Brenda]

It is. Anyone can look at them. But I am talking about writer intent. I am not posting reviews of the books I read for anyone else but me.

[Alicia]

Brenda wrote: "It is. Anyone can look at them. But I am talking about writer intent. I am not posting reviews of the books I read for anyone else but me."

Copyright of the review remains with the reviewer: and you can't quote other people's words (except for the usual exceptions to copyright such as fair use) without their permission.

Most people are flattered if you ask them if you can quote their review. A few say no. Always ask - and keep the answer somewhere.

[Miss M]

Generally speaking, Fair Use doesn't apply for commercial purposes, i.e., marketing a book. As Alicia and others have said, you should ask the reviewer.

[Alicia]

Miss M wrote: "Generally speaking, Fair Use doesn't apply for commercial purposes, i.e., marketing a book. As Alicia and others have said, you should ask the reviewer."

Thank you - of course, you're right. No commercial use, and limited use for things such as study.

Look it up - get the facts right before you plaster someone else's words all over your book cover. They may not be amused.

I always checked because kind words meant for commentary on a private website such at Wattpad may be meant to encourage a writer, not endorse their book when it is published. The lovely people I contacted said yes. I have their emailed replies.