Emails from authors - how are they doing it?

[Ed]

I've been getting emails through Goodreads from various authors lately. Just yesterday from Peter F Hamilton about his new book. Addressed to me personally. Not that I mind that much because I'm a fan of his - but I am really curious:

I thought Goodreads prevented and frowned upon this?

How are these authors getting their mass emails through the system?

I'd like to do that as well to my followers and friends but I thought it wasn't possible. Did things change?

[Emma]

I'd be interested in knowing to.

[Ed]

I just noticed the heading of the email says:

Goodreads Sponsored Personal Selection


Aha! An ad?

[Justin]

This has always been the case. Spammy authors who don't know any better messaging you on here because they are all about their books and not about making connections.