book review sites like goodreads

9 Alternative Sites Better Than Goodreads for Book Lovers

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What is goodreads, the storygraph, librarything.

• Goodreads alternatives like The StoryGraph offer better book reviews and tailored recommendations.
• Bookly tracks reading progress, hosts readathons, and offers a premium plan for unlimited books.
• Fable and BookTrib offer unique features like book clubs and news for book lovers, surpassing Goodreads.

Goodreads boasts millions of users and a database full of even more books. People flock to the site to discover new titles to consume, catalog what they've already read, and see what friends are reading.

But although Goodreads offers countless useful features, many are beginning to look elsewhere to fill their book cataloging needs.

Here are some of the best Goodreads alternatives that offer even more features.

Goodreads is a social platform that caters to avid readers and book creators. It lets you create bookshelves and fill them with books you have read, are currently reading, or plan to read. Goodreads helps you keep a neat record of every title, and once you've read it, it allows you to share your thoughts on it. You can leave a review, give the book a star rating, and move on to the next.

You can get recommendations tailored to your specific tastes based on your shelves with access to an established community of book lovers. Goodreads also offers the option to set yearly reading challenges for yourself for no reward other than your sense of accomplishment.

Goodreads has stagnated, and many users are looking elsewhere for book communities. There are now many other options, all with features that match or surpass those of Goodreads. Book lovers can find a slew of apps designed to fit their needs, including apps designed for social reading .

Since its initial release at the beginning of 2021, StoryGraph has received some major quality-of-life updates. It's praised as not only an alternative to Goodreads but also as the best option to replace the platform.

StoryGraph offers many more features when it comes to reviewing books, and the recommendations you get are better tailored as it considers more factors. The website and app now offer a premium subscription, called The StoryGraph Plus, for $4.99 per month with the option for a 30-day free trial. With the premium subscription, subscribers receive extra data points for reading stats, priority maintenance assistance, and the ability to vote on new features for the site.

The platform also provides some features Goodreads does not: a Did Not Finish option, allowing you to track which books you started but didn't finish, and half-star ratings.

If you're on the fence about switching, we've put together some pros and cons of Goodreads and The StoryGraph .

Bookly is a book-tracking app that hosts frequent readathons and allows users to track their reading with timers. You can also rate, review, and create notes for the books you're reading. Users can earn coins by reading and reaching milestones, which they can then spend on costumes for Bookly's adorable mascot, Bloo.

However, one major drawback is that, with a free account, you can only have up to 10 books on your Bookly bookshelf. The premium subscription, Bookly PRO, offers a personal assistant and unlimited book tracking for $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year.

Fable is a book-tracking app that also hosts virtual book clubs. You can post photos, discussion posts, and comments on other users' posts. The app even has a way to start a daily reading streak. In virtual book clubs, users can annotate and react to parts of books that the entire book club can see. The reading app also offers free downloads of classic literature. Finally, Fable recently expanded to allow users to track TV shows, as well!

If you're looking to learn more about Fable, check out why I've switched from Goodreads to Fable for good .

BookTrib is an interesting website that establishes itself as a "Lifestyle Destination" for book lovers. The book cataloging platform provides news and allows its users to leave reviews. Instead of a shelf called Currently Reading like Goodreads, BookTrib offers a shelf called My Nightstand, which displays users' books.

What sets BookTrib apart is its news aspect. It publishes a newsletter called The Exclamation Point! that covers all things books, publishing, and media.

BookTrib offers articles about pretty much everything book-related, and it goes pretty in-depth with what it covers. The platform also allows its members to do live chats with authors and even do book giveaways.

BookBrowse markets itself as a magazine for book lovers and claims to be the people's guide to exceptional books. It helps you find your next book and avoid being disappointed with it. Even though this website looks dated, it still has a ton of great features. BookBrowse has giveaways and games and offers a magazine twice a month with a subscription ($15 for three months or $45 for a year).

Book Browse offers access to book reviews, previews, and even author interviews and reading guides. You can also sign up for book clubs and free weekly newsletters from BookBrowse.

LibraryThing offers "a home for your books" and even calls itself the Facebook for books. It houses well over two million book lovers and allows you to store and share book catalogs and other book metadata. LibraryThing also offers virtual scavenger hunts throughout the year, with chances to win free merchandise or page badges. You can access LibraryThing via its website or app.

LibraryThing is used by book readers, writers, libraries, and publishers. It's similar to Goodreads in that it allows you to catalog books from various sources and has a social aspect. LibraryThing lets you catalog and track your movies and music, too, and it's completely free. If you're a data nerd, LibraryThing offers more data-driven visualizations than other Goodreads alternatives.

Libib takes it a step further than only cataloging books. It also supports movies, music, video games, and now board games! It offers a website and an app, allowing you to create and share a collection.

You're free to catalog as much as you want, with a cap of 100,000 items, though it's doubtful that you'll even come close to reaching that. Libib is one of the best media cataloging systems, if not the best. It also offers paid services for libraries looking to track patrons, books checked out, and other useful data for running a library.

If you have a blog, Anobii is the best place for you. The platform allows you to connect your blog to your profile after you register as a user. Other than that lovely perk, Anobii is pretty close to Goodreads in what it offers, but with a more social twist.

Anobii lets you create a book library that houses books you've read or wish to read. You can rate and organize books into categories and read and write reviews. The platform also lets you email contacts, invite your Facebook friends, or even upload your contact list. You can also join groups and discussions and become a part of the community. You can even search for bookstores near you with its interactive map.

Revish has been around since 2007. It allows you to share your reading experiences and thoughts by writing reviews for titles you've read. It lets you make a reading list, which you can then share with your friends so they can see what you have your eye on. Apart from a reading list, you can also keep a reading journal, which helps you know what you were reading at any given time. You can even find movie and TV recommendations on the site, as well.

The Revish platform also encourages you to participate in and create groups and discussions. The website provides you with its API and widgets that help you add your Revish content to your blog or website if you want to do that. Its design is a bit outdated, but it still does the job.

Goodreads is an excellent cataloging website. It helps you track your current reads and everything you plan to consume in the future. Despite plenty of helpful features, it has shortcomings, including issues that users have continuously raised (like the lack of a Did Not Finish button or half-star rating system) but have never seen the light of day.

You may have had to put up with Goodreads a long time ago when there were no other options for cataloging your reading. Now, there are plenty of options, so choose an alternative and move on.

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21 Best Goodreads Alternatives for Ethical Book Tracking

This article is a part of an ongoing series on how to minimize or eliminate Amazon use from our lives. We’re highlighting the best Amazon alternatives for those with ethical, moral, or environmental qualms with the trillion-dollar company.

Goodreads is fine. It’s a simple tool that allows you to keep track of how many books you read from year to year, connect with other readers, and discover more books to add to your queue...

The only problem is that, since 2015, it’s been owned by Amazon — the multinational megacorporation with a number of environmental and ethical concerns. 

This is a problem for anyone concerned about handing over their data to Amazon — or for anyone working to completely divest from Amazon tools.

(For those who fall into that camp, we’ve already written guides on alternatives to: Prime Video , Audible , Amazon books , Amazon Kindle , and Amazon shopping .)

While there’s nothing inherently wrong with using Goodreads — I have 93 books logged on Goodreads this year alone — it’s natural to be curious about non-Amazon alternatives.

In my own quest to divest from Amazon wherever I can, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of all of the platforms I’ve tried and recommend — with everything from direct competitors to social networks, plus some out-of-the-box options, too.

First, a few reasons why you might consider switching away from Goodreads:

• Amazon profits off of data — and everything you do on Goodreads gives them more data to work with.
• Many authors report experiencing bullying and extortion on the platform. (If you’re a book lover, we’d really encourage you to be a human-who-writes-those-books lover, too.)
• Goodreads subtly encourages you to buy books from Amazon and Audible… but you could be checking out books from your local library or supporting an independent bookstore.
• Goodreads has lots of ads and all of that ad money goes back to Amazon. 
• Ever since Goodreads was acquired by Amazon, users have reported that it’s been largely neglected and, at this point, lacks features that are now standard from competitors.

The Ultimate Guide To Goodreads Alternatives —

The storygraph.

The StoryGraph is a website and app that allows users to discover and share books. Users can create a virtual bookshelf, rate and review books, and participate in online book clubs and discussions. The StoryGraph is a new platform that aims to be a more inclusive and community-focused alternative to Goodreads.

True to its name, The StoryGraph is known for its compelling graphs, turning your book data into helpful visuals. If you’re a data nerd like me, this is an especially enticing feature.

One thing that I found really helpful is that the platform makes it easy to import your entire Goodreads history to The StoryGraph — ensuring you don’t have to manually re-create years of book progress.

Most notably: The StoryGraph focuses on providing personalized recommendations based on a user’s preferences and interests. (Goodreads’ approach to book discovery is much more general and less personalized.) 

​​→ Check out The StoryGraph

Booksloth is a mobile and web app that makes it easy to log the books you read and discover new books based on personalized recommendations. 

As you log books, you can go beyond the traditional star-rating by rating books based on, for example, characters or worldbuilding.

It’s clear the platform has invested in its community-focused features; creating discussion boards to chat about books and allow you to connect with other readers (in a text message-type format). 

You can create a profile that looks a lot like Instagram for books. And you can also create and share book lists, which is a very helpful feature for anyone who has friends asking them what they should read next. 

​​→ Check out Booksloth

Basmo’s primary goal is to help users “create a reading habit in no time.” 

The app includes features that feel like writing in the margins of your book or highlighting your favorite quotes — all without actually pulling out a pen or highlighter. You can log your emotions as you read to help you reflect on how a book is impacting you. Digital annotaters, unite!

Like Goodreads, Basmo makes it easy to keep track of the books you’re reading, you’ve completed, and want to read — all on a digital bookshelf. 

Basmo also features annual challenges — which makes achieving New Year’s resolutions easy! You can focus on how much time you want to read — or how many books you’d like to complete.

I actually originally found the platform on TikTok and was amazed at how many positive comments people had left about the app. I tried it out and it hooked me. Absolutely worth a download.

​​​​→ Check out Basmo

While Libib is a cataloging tool meant to be used by libraries, schools, and organizations — it’s a really incredible tool for anyone with a big collection of books.

You can keep track of the books you own, the books you read, and even the books you loan out to friends — all in a comprehensive library management system. You can even take it further by tracking your DVD, vinyl, and board game collections.

If you want to get really nerdy about it, check out this TikTok about how one book lover uses a barcode scanner to add all of her books to Libib just like a library or bookstore.

​​→ Check out Libib

Bookly is all about tracking reading sessions — not just books. Every time you read, open up the Bookly app to start your reading timer. This will help you keep track of your reading speed — which will tell you how much time it will take you to finish your book and other valuable data.

I also like that the timer feature keeps me motivated to stay focused on actually reading (instead of accidentally checking my notifications).

Bookly offers personalized reports with all of your reading stats — and helps motivate you to treat reading like a workout. As you read, you can save thoughts and quotes — and see how you’re measuring up against your goals.

​​→ Check out Bookly

Likewise is the perfect app for anyone looking to track and discover all kinds of media in one place. The app can help you manage books, movies, TV shows, podcasts, and more.

As you add more media that you’ve read, watched, or listened to, Likewise learns what you like and offers better and better personalized recommendations. The app  also makes it easy to connect with community and find content about media. 

​​→ Check out Likewise

#Bookstagram & #BookTok

This one is a bit more out-of-the-box:

Bookstagram and BookTok are terms used to describe the community of book lovers and readers who share their passion for books on Instagram and TikTok, respectively. 

Bookstagrammers and BookTokkers, as they are often called, typically post pictures and videos of books, book-related items, and their own reading experiences on their accounts, and often use hashtags to connect with other book lovers. 

Bookstagram and BookTok are known for their vibrant and creative communities, and are seen as a way for readers to discover new books, share their love of reading, and connect with others who share their interests. At this point, it’s not uncommon to walk into a bookstore and see a shelf with a sign that says, “As seen on TikTok.”

Many people have begun using Instagram and TikTok as the primary place they track the books they’ve read. By posting a photo, video, screenshot, or review of every book you read on your dedicated book-related account, you can effectively create a complete database of the books you read and love.

Even if you don’t want to step in front of the camera, following other creators is a fantastic way to find new book recommendations. You can even create folders on your respective apps to save posts and curate your own TBR list, with the help of a diverse reading community.

(And who knows — if your account picks up enough steam, you’ll likely get publishers DMing you to send you free books to review!)

Notion, Airtable, or Google Sheets

Sometimes you just want to take things back to basics. Rather than using a high-powered app to track your reading, you can simply put together a database or spreadsheet to keep track of the books you read.

This is especially beneficial if you want to track custom metrics, like how many of your books were written by women authors or Indigenous authors. You can even use tags to organize books into curated lists.

It definitely takes a lot more manual action — but if you already love nerding out about databases and spreadsheets, you know this has the potential to be worth the effort.

→ Check out the Notion book tracker template

LibraryThing

LibraryThing boasts its ability to help you “create and track a library-quality catalog” of all of your books (and other media). You can track the books you’ve read — or just manage your home library. 

The platform’s database pulls from the Library of Congress (and hundreds more places) and pulls in a ton of data for each listing.

You can also connect with a community of book lovers through groups and message boards — which seem to stay pretty active. 

​​→ Check out LibraryThing

While BookTrip is primarily an online magazine for book news and reviews, the website has one fantastic feature we can’t help but recommend: My Nightstand.

As you read articles and reviews on BookTrib, you’ll see a small green button that simply says “Nightstand.” Tap that, and BookTrib will automatically add whatever book you’re reading about to… your nightstand — a list of books you’d like to read. 

Within a week of reading BookTrib stories, I’d already discovered a dozen books that piqued my interest — and added them to My Nightstand. This feature is perfect for book discovery and simple tracking.

​​→ Check out BookTrib

Google (which is, of course, another multinational corporation with its own concerns) has, under-the-radar, created its own simple way to help you keep track of the content you consume. (As long as you’re on your phone, that is.)

From the mobile version of Google.com or the Google app, you can simply search for an author or book (or even an entire genre). Then, you should be able to tap to add the book to your reading list or mark it as already read.

You can also search (again, only on mobile) for “what to read” to find and update your reading lists. This also works for movies and TV shows. Over time, it’ll show recommendations too. (More details on the Google Help page .)

To be honest, I haven’t been able to make this work with every book, as the option to add it to my list doesn’t always show up. Google has a history of launching apps or tools only to discontinue them later — so I’m not ready to go all-in on this yet.

But, if this does end up working out in the long run, it could be a really simple way to log your reading history and — especially — easily add new discoveries to your to-read list.

Your Library

An underrated way to keep track of your reading history is through your library’s website! Most libraries use a software (for mine, it’s BiblioCommons) that allows you to log into your account and add books to your reading history and other lists — whether or not you checked them out from the library. 

It may not be the most comprehensive tool out there, but there’s something special about logging into your library to log the newest book you’ve read.

Last but not least, if you just want to log books as you read them, there’s nothing more simple than an ongoing note in your Notes app. Just type out the name of the book you just read and move on with your day. Add a few star emojis at the end if you want to get fancy. 

You can even take a screenshot and post to Instagram at the end of the year. Easy. 

Final Thoughts —

Based on my experience using Goodreads alternatives, I have a few final thoughts and recommendations:

• The StoryGraph is the platform most poised to be a Goodreads-killer. It has all of the same benefits and features of Goodreads — just better. I especially think it’s better at providing data and insight about my reading habits — and recommending books I wouldn’t otherwise find.
• The only thing that Goodreads still wins on is community. More of my friends use Goodreads than any other platform combined. I really value seeing what my friends are reading (and love when they comment on what I’ve read) and for that reason, I’m going to have a hard time fully quitting Goodreads anytime soon . (But definitely feel free to send your bibliophile friends this article, so they can jump on a new platform, too!)
• If I had to pick a runner-up to The StoryGraph, I’d ultimately find a deadlocked tie between Basmo, Booksloth, and Bookly (wow, that’s a lot of b-words). They’re all great for different reasons, and have great design and simple apps.
• If you want to track more than just books (like movies and shows), I think Likewise is the way to go.
• And lastly, I really can’t speak highly enough of just picking a place to keep track of your books and sticking with it. No platform is perfect, but you’ll find the most success with just staying with a routine. For two years I posted an Instagram Story for every book I finished, and saved it to a Highlight. For a period of time I logged the books I read in my Notes app. You can even simply text the same friend every time you finish a new book. There’s no wrong way to do it.

More Alternatives —

I’ll also note that, during the course of writing this article I stumbled across a number of other platforms that I haven’t yet been able to formally review yet.

I’ll include them here and continue to update this article over time:

• Lit Hit. — A young app that allows you to swipe left and right on books
• Anobii — Intentionally positions itself as an independent alternative to Goodreads
• BookBrowse — Seemingly comprehensive tool, but its design aesthetic feels older than Goodread’s already-old vibe
• BookLikes — While other blogs recommend BookLikes, it doesn’t appear to be very active or up-to-date
• TBR (Tailored Book Recommendations) — Pay them money to have a literary expert mail you three books they think you’ll love
• Oku — A gorgeous, minimalist design and lots of features! I’ll definitely try this platform next.
• BookWyrm — This proudly anti-corporate and decentralized platform can connect with other decentralized platforms like Mastodon ‍
• Hardcover — Another beautifully-designed platform with plenty of features (and Goodreads import capabilities)! I’ll be trying this one soon, as well.

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21 Best Goodreads Alternatives to Know in 2024

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In the last few years, with the publication of hundreds of books each day, reading has reclaimed its spot as one of the most beloved pastimes. As more and more bookworms embrace the life of reading and getting lost in fiction, the need to document progress and to-be-read lists becomes more imminent. 

All of us love having our own little journal, so we have tangible proof of our reading throughout the year, but handwritten journal entries take more time than most book lovers are willing to spend on it. Many major websites like Goodreads have primarily dominated the scene of book journaling, but recently many others have grasped and even improved the concept. An online journal is way easier and faster to write, not to mention that the cute graphics elevate the experience further. There are countless social media platforms for both authors and writers making their way around the web. 

You want to have an online journal, but do not want to get into Goodreads? We got you, dear bookworm! We have compiled a detailed list with a wide array of alternatives for you to choose from. There are so many that one is guaranteed to fit different types of readers . 

Let’s dive in!

Why Are People Looking For Alternatives to Goodreads?

First things first, let’s explain why Goodreads is being ditched by many book lovers in exchange for alternative options. If you are an oldie then perhaps you remember Goodreads before it was bought by Amazon in 2013. The layout is mainly the same—aside from the obvious lack of new features competitors already have incorporated, due to Amazon’s negligence— and there are seemingly not many differences, but have you noticed the increase in targeted ads and book recommendations? The numerous ads that decorate a Goodreads page bring a ton of money back to Amazon, making the Goodreads users prey to Amazon’s associates. 

But the most important and pressing issue is that readers are not so subtly prompted into buying books from Audible and Amazon, thus benefiting the same corporation. And it begs the question, fellow bookworm, how ethical is this practice and are our reviews and book selections manipulated by Amazon’s marketing strategy? In order to withdraw support from Amazon, many users have switched to other apps to maintain their reading ethics. Some readers have even opted to go back to local libraries and bookstores to get physical copies, but the need to document reading progress is still there. 

So, if you are interested in finding another option that suits you better for whichever reason, then keep reading!

What Are The 21 Best Goodreads Alternatives to Consider?

Here is a simple yet detailed list of all the alternatives we recommend:

The StoryGraph:

Pro: Book recs based on the reader’s mood 

Con: Limited book database

Best for: Data-loving readers who seek personalized recommendations

LibraryThing:

Pro: Extensive cataloging features

Con: Outdated interface

Best for: Data enthusiasts and book collectors

Reading List:

Pro: Simplicity

Con: Limited features

Best for: Casual readers

Pro: Easy to use

Con: Limited social interaction

Best for: Individual collectors and small libraries

Pro: Strong community

Con : Limited catalog

Best for: Social and engaged readers

Pro: Strong community engagement

Con: Interface and usability issues

Best for: Avid readers, reviewers, collectors

BookBrowse:

Pro: Depth of content

Con: Subscription required for full access

Best for: Serious readers and book club members

Bookstagram:

Pro: Engaging and supportive community

Con: Non-curated content

Best for: Authors, publishers, readers looking for a community

Pro: Ethical and community focused

Con: Smaller user base

Best for: Non-commercial readers

Your Library:

Pro: Resources and community programs

Con: Service limited to specific regions

Best for: Residents of Knox, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges

Pro: Motivational and comprehensive tracking tools

Con: Mobile-only app

Best for: Goal setters and video game enjoyers

Pro: Well-organized with AI features

Con: Constant setups required

Best for: Readers who like a structured experience blended with tech

Pro: Versatile content discovery

Con: Not always the best recommendations

Best for: Social media users and entertainment enthusiasts 

Pro: Rich Content and accessibility

Con: Overwhelming information

Best for: Avid readers, literature students, book club members

Binge Books:

Pro: Book samples and audio excerpts

Con: Limited catalog

Best for: Avid readers and audiobook listeners

BooksDigits:

Pro: Unique rating system

Con: Limited user base

Best for: Avid readers

Pro: Limited/special editions

Con: No broader content like reviews or discussions 

Best for: Avid readers and collectors

Pro: Quality and curation

Con: No free version

Best for: Younger readers

Pro: User-friendly and private

Con: Limited interaction

Best for: Readers seeking privacy

Pro: Able to handle multiple libraries, user-friendly interface

Con: Not for solitary reading 

Best for: Social readers

Pro: Easy Access

Con: Limited social features

Best for: E-book readers and collectors

1. The StoryGraph

It’s an ad-free and user-friendly app that specializes in book tracking and data-based recommendations. It offers comprehensive analytics breaking down the user’s reading habits, offering insights into preferred themes and pacing. Its unique feature is making personalized book recommendations based on the reader’s mood and preferences. It is also ideal for exploring lesser-known authors, thus promoting a better understanding and engagement with literature. 

Key Features:  

• Mood tracking-filters
• Live reactions from friends
• Personalized recommendations

‍ Pricing: Free version / $4.99 monthly or $49 yearly for Plus features 

‍ Best For: Data-driven readers

2. LibraryThing

It’s an app best for cataloging books and keeping track of your reading. It has a limit of cataloging 200 books for free. The reader can join communities and share reviews and opinions. Recommendations are based on the user’s library and preferences. Information about local events and bookstores is also available.

• Detailed charts
• Recommendations based on tags

‍ Pricing: Free version with a limit of 200 books / $10 yearly subscription or $25 for life

‍ Best For: Book collectors

3. Reading List

Reading List is an app offered by Google. It is accessible via Google Chrome and is thoroughly convenient for Google users. Allows readers to save info across devices and bookmark articles, interviews, etc. for later reading. It is completely free as it is within Google services, but does not offer various features like detailed cataloging for book lovers.

• Access across devices 
• Integration with Google

Pricing: Free

Best For: Casual readers

Libib is another user-friendly website used mainly for cataloging aimed at individual collectors and small organizations. It offers statistics regarding your collections and allows the user to create multiple libraries. A user can share their library so that others can like and comment. All data is stored on Cloud to prevent data loss and allow accessibility from all devices. 

• Simple statistics
• Multiple libraries
• Cloud-stored data
• Easy access

‍ Pricing: Free version allows storing 5,000 books over 100 libraries /   Pro version $9 monthly or $99 per year

‍ Best For: Individual collectors or small libraries

5. BookSloth

BookSloth is an app designed for readers who want to discover new books and connect with other book lovers. Users can participate in reading challenges, rate and review books, get personalized recommendations according to preferences and connect with other readers. It is easy to navigate and engaging for bookworms. 

• Network of readers
• Reviews and ratings
• Reading challenges
• Curated lists

‍ Pricing: Most features are free, but some require in-app purchases

‍ Best For: Social and engaged readers

This website targets passionate readers and is primarily focused on book cataloging and tracking, sharing reviews and connecting with other readers. Book recommendations are curated according to daily activities and preferences, while statistics breaking down the user’s reading habits are also offered. 

• Personal library
• Reading stats

‍ Pricing: Primary features are free

Best For: Avid readers, reviewers and collectors

In case you need some guidance on how to become a reviewer , we have some tips for you!

7. BookBrowse

BookBrowse targets passionate readers who are looking for in-depth literary knowledge. It offers users access to editorial content like reviews, interviews, etc, and extensive reading guides to help beginners. High-quality and engaging book recommendations are a priority. The option of joining newsletters with literary news is also available. Book club features and advice regarding book clubs is offered. 

• Reading guides
• Newsletters
• Insightful recommendations 
• Book club features

Pricing: Operates on a subscription model. To access the full range of features, the fee is $29.95 per year or $3.33 per month if billed annually. 

Best For: Serious readers and book club members

8. #bookstagram

Bookstagram is a particularly popular community on Instagram, where bookworms share aesthetically pleasing photos, book reviews, bookish news and book recommendations. It focuses on the social aspect of reading and connecting with other readers. Hashtags and trends are born every day on #bookstagram, while bookish events can be organized or promoted on the app.

• Social networking
• Aesthetic visuals
• Book reviews and recs

Best For: Authors, publishers, casual and social readers

9. BookWyrm

Unlike Goodreads, BookWyrm is an open-source, federated and ad free website that prioritizes user privacy and does not sell data. It is built around social reading, and users can review and rate books, while also interacting with other bookworms via comments and likes. Hosts can customize their very own “instances” and set their own community of book lovers with their own rules and guidelines. There are also reading challenges with reading goals the users strive to achieve.

• Individual “instances”
• Focus on privacy
• Open-sourced and federated

Pricing: Free, setting up your own independent “instance” may require a server fee

Best For: Readers looking for non-commercial alternatives

10. Your Library ‍

Do we have any Aussie bookworms here? Cause this is the ideal site for you! Your Library targets people of all ages and offers a variety of services, including access to physical copies and digital ones, community events, and educational programs. It also offers tech support sessions and promotes community engagement overall.  

• Extensive catalog 
• Digital resources 
• Community engagement

Best For: Residents of Knox, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges 

11. Bookly ‍

Bookly is another option built around book tracking and cataloging. It is a user-friendly app that motivates readers to set and achieve reading goals while keeping track of their progress with comprehensive statistic reports. Reading habits like reading speed are also tracked by the app. A personalized dashboard displaying reading achievements along with reminders to keep reading can also assist you in how to be a better reader . 

• Reading goals and reminders
• Tracking tools 
• Insightful statistics
• Personalized dashboard

Pricing: Free version available / $4.99 per month, $19.99 for 6 months, $29.99 yearly for the premium version

Best For: Goal setters who enjoy video games

For the bookworms who appreciate more than a simple book tracker, Basmo is the one for you. A wide array of AI-powered features is incorporated, allowing readers to set reading goals, journal their reading experience, organize their bookshelves, and create their own unique reading schedule. Our own personal kryptonite is the ability to take notes and highlight passages in our books in the app. It is also available for both iOs and Android devices. What else could a bookworm want?

• Personalized reading schedules
• Annotations
• Bookshelves
• AI ChatBook

‍ Pricing: Free version with limited features / $8.99 per month or $59.99 yearly for advanced features

‍ Best For: Tech lovers and reading list bookworms

13. Likewise

This app is targeted more at recommendations and content organization. Likewise supports direct linking with streaming services, making it easy to use. The algorithm for suggestions and recommendations is shaped by your personal preferences, thus ensuring you get the best book for you. It is ideal for social media lovers as it has the feel of a social network, allowing users to follow others, see their recommendations and share favorites.

• Organization
• Reader Community
• Integration with streaming services

‍ Pricing: Free

‍ Best For: Social media users and entertainment enthusiasts

14. BookTrib

BookTrib is a very inclusive and comprehensive platform. From literary podcasts— if you're into them, check our post on the best historical fiction podcasts , too— and video interviews to content for upcoming releases, it has anything a book lover could want. It covers a wide spectrum of topics and genres while staying on top of trends and author insights. Community engagement is also strong, making it a dynamic platform. User’s can find reviews for both new releases and well-known works.

• Rich and in-depth content
• Genre Diversity
• Video discussions and podcasts

‍ Best For: Avid readers, literature students, book club members

15. BingeBooks

BingeBooks offers a fresh and engaging way of connecting with other readers and discovering new books. The user can explore new books by binging through their samples or listening to snippets from the audiobooks. Your personal library is where you can save your favorite, books, authors, or genres like romance and its subgenres . The community here is also going strong, as both interactions with other readers and authors are featured.

• Audio excerpts
• Book Samples
• Author interviews
• Personalized libraries

‍ Best For: Avid readers and audiobook listeners

16. BookDigits

BookDigits is another platform mainly aimed at book discovery and engagement. What’s different about it is that it has its own unique rating system, where each book is not only judged by its quality but various aspects of it. The goal is to optimize recommendations according to personal preferences and reviews. The user can also vote on other people’s ratings and track reading statistics.

• Tailored Recommendations
• Unique rating system
• Interaction and Engagement

‍ Best For: Avid readers 

17. Bookhype

Bookhype is best at helping readers stay on top of new releases, track their reading, and discover special editions, like signed copies or sprayed edges. It includes a release calendar to keep track of upcoming books and personal reading lists. When new parts of your favorite series are published, they are automatically added to your library. Reader engagement is also promoted to improve the individual reading experience. 

• Special editions
• Automatic additions to your library
• Release calendar

Best For: Avid readers and book collectors

18. Bookroo

Now let’s change things up a bit! Bookroo is mainly focused on younger readers, promoting reading from a young age and encouraging young ones to embrace the bookworm lifestyle—what a touching and potentially life-changing gesture! Delivering hidden gems rather than mainstream titles is a priority. Enriching children’s libraries is the main focus, so perhaps school-organized giveaways or similar activities can also be arranged using Bookroo.

• Curated Selections
• Diverse subscription options

‍ Pricing: $19.95 per month, discounts available

‍ Best For: Younger readers

Introverted bookworms rise, it’s your turn now! Candl is a non-social, private book tracking app for readers who want to organize their reading. Users can customize their reading lists, reminders and keep notes, and privately review books. The app can be accessed by all devices and data export and account deletion are supported.

• Data export
• Customizable features

‍ Best For: Readers seeking privacy

20. Hardcover

Hardcover offers a variety of features including the very important half-star ratings—how we all wished we could give half-stars everywhere. It tracks reading progress across “read”, “to be read” and “currently reading” statuses. It is targeted at serious readers and is designed to handle complex libraries.

• Detailed book tracking
• Half-star ratings
• Customizable reading status

‍ Best For: Social book lovers

21. Libreture

Libreture focuses on e-book storage and book discovery. It can be accessed by any device and users are able to manage their digital bookshelves. The pricing system is rather unique, as users can pay for the storage they need and don’t have to spend extra on anything other than their allotted space.

• E-book storage
• Fair pricing model

Pricing: Between $2-$15 depending on the storage you need

Best For: Digital book readers and collectors

Now, let’s see what is best for each category of readers!

What Key Features Should You Look for in a Goodreads Alternative?

I’m sure after reading all of these you want nothing more than to bury your nose in a book and think about it again tomorrow, but hang with us for just a couple of minutes more, dear bookworm. The last thing we have to do is help you decide which alternative is best for you based on the unique features offered!

Features for social butterflies

Apps like BookDigits, BookTrib, BingeBooks, Your Library, BookSloth, and Likewise seem like the best options for you!

Features to look for:

• Reader community
• Sharing reviews and reading lists
• Video session and discussions

Features for introverts

For our more introverted book lovers, we suggest alternatives like The StoryGraph, Candl, Reading List, Libretube, Hardcover, Basmo and Bookly! A good option is to join a few book Subreddits to keep up with trends and literary news as well. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

• Private reviews
• Stats, graphs and reports
• Mood-tracking filters
• Tailored recommendations
• Annotations 

Features for the old-fashioned way

For those of you who prefer the traditional way of storing books and recording your progress, we suggest sites like Google’s Reading List, LibraryThing and Libib.

• Stats and graphs 
• Book tracking
• Reading lists

All-in features for movie/book/music combos

For those of you who want to have everything combined in one place instead of using different apps, we suggest Likewise, LibraryThing and Libib. 

• Access from all devices
• Recommendations
• Integration with streaming devices

A try on these platforms will help you realize which one works for you. 

Over To You

As you can see, the options for book lovers are countless. It is important to find the one that better suits your reading needs and personality, though. Don’t be afraid to try out a few to find the best match. Perhaps our own Crewfiction will be the place for your book journaling one day! One thing is for sure, dear bookworms, reading will always be a safe haven for millions of people, and numerous apps and devices to aid our quest into the unknown. 

To discover more reading tips and read posts like this, join our Crew Newsletter . 

Christina Tsoukala

Always living in her own enchanted little world, Christina discovered the magic that can be hidden within the pages of a book when one dares to take a closer look from a tender age. An avid reader, she is constantly inspired to delve into the secrets woven between the lines and challenges herself to find her own voice amidst the chaos. She is a dedicated fan of the classics, but the supernatural creatures that have tormented readers for years are her kryptonite. The mastery it takes to infuse the author's essence, molded by the era they grew up in to their innermost desires fascinates her. Undoubtedly, putting her passion and knowledge on paper has a mesmerizing allure on her, and following the steps of so many other dreamers before her she wishes to leave her mark in the literary world. Guided by T.S Eliot’s haunting words: “I will show you fear in a handful of dust” she intends to wreak havoc in the minds of her future readers.

Table of Contents

12 best goodreads alternatives 2024.

• April 13, 2023

Goodreads is one of the most popular book sites that millions of readers use for various reasons. Readers use Goodreads to track books they’ve read, connect with friends, find information about their favorite authors or series, and discover new books.

Platforms like LibraryThing , Libib , and Anobii are fairly good as Goodreads alternatives but the best Goodreads alternative is StoryGraph . Though relatively younger, StoryGraph has everything you would expect from a good book cataloging platform. 

More about Goodreads & why look for alternatives

1. the storygraph, 2. librarything, 5. booksloth, 7. bookbrowse, 8. booktrib, 10. booklikes, 11. likewise.

• 12. Tailored Book Recommendations

Final Thoughts

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Goodreads is a social cataloging site owned by Amazon and is also considered the world’s biggest online book cataloging platform. Goodreads is populated mainly by readers looking for recommendations and authors looking for readers.

The platform boasts over 90 million users, 900 million books in its database, and more than 34 million book reviews. With Goodreads, you can create a bookshelf, add books, and get suggestions based on the contents of your bookshelf.

Good as it may sound, Goodreads has limitations that have left many users discouraged and lost in the crowd.

Goodreads has been criticized for various things, including its outdated and archaic design, and many users are now looking for better replacements, all with features that match or surpass Goodreads.

As mentioned above, I have a few recommendations for you if you want to find out the options you have besides Goodreads.

Take a look.

Explore : Best Alternatives To Z-library

Best Goodreads Alternatives

The StoryGraph is relatively new to the reading scene as it first launched its beta version in 2019.

While The StoryGraph founder, Nadia Odunayo, created a platform to be more of a “companion” to Goodreads, The StoryGraph has grown to become the best option to replace Goodreads.

The StoryGraph offers much more features for reviewing books and gives you better recommendations tailored to your reading needs .

What you’ll also find interesting about The StoryGraph is the “did not finish button “and the ability to mark a book as “owned.”

Its database might not have reached the scale of Goodreads, but The StoryGraph promises a better experience, and it is highly likely to be much better as more people get to it.

Another feature that makes The StoryGraph stand out is its ability to allow users to submit content warnings for various books to give readers an idea of what to expect while reading certain books.

However, this feature has seen The StoryGraph receive trolls as there are content warnings that some readers deem unnecessary.

Despite the trolls, The StoryGraph seems more adept in responding to trolls, unlike Goodreads, which makes readers have faith that the platform is a safe and happier book space.

Key Features

• The StoryGraph helps you track your reading, choose your next book, and your favorite themes and topics based on your mood.
• It gives you simple tracking and insightful stats on your reading habits using charts and graphs. The stats guide you into understanding how your reading develops and, with time, help you pick better books.
• You can get smart, personalized reading recommendations. The platform uses learning AI that understands your reading preferences to find the best books for you.
• With The StoryGraph, you can read with friends. You can add live reactions to some parts of books without the fear of spoilers, as comments are locked till other readers get to that point in their reading.

The StoryGraph is free to use but offers a  Plus plan  for those looking for a more personalized and enhanced reading experience at $4.99 per month.

Also Read : Is Z-library Legal & Safe To Use ?

LibraryThing has a good network of readers (over two million) and is not only used by readers and authors but also by publishers and libraries. It allows you to catalog books from different sources with a social aspect in it.

What makes LibraryThing more outstanding than Goodreads is that the platform also allows you to track and catalog movies and music for free, besides books.

With LibraryThing, you can tag books with whatever subject you like and catalog your books from the Library of Congress, Amazon, or 4,941 other libraries.

The platform allows you to share what you love with other committed bibliophiles, lend books, and grab a book from over 2000 early releases every month.

• LibraryThing is available in about 15 languages.
• You can share reviews on Facebook and find your Facebook or Twitter friends who are on LibraryThing using  Friend Finder  and also send invites to those who are not on the platform.
• The take inventory feature helps you check your physical collection against your LibraryThing catalog. You can also use this feature to determine whether books are missing or whether all books in your library are cataloged.

LibraryThing is free for all.

Also Read : Best Bookbolt Alternatives

Libib allows you to catalog more than just your library of books. The home library management tool lets you track what you’re reading as well as movies, music, and video games.

Libib offers an app and website, and like in the case of Goodreads, the platform allows you to create a profile searchable to other members, so they can find you and interact with your collection of books, video games, music, or movies.

The platform also allows you to message people. Its messaging system is an aspect that makes it stand out, as it functions as Twitter postings and communication.

Libib is cloud-based, and since it’s available on your computer and mobile device, it makes managing your library on the go a total breeze.

• Libib allows you to create and share multiple collections and catalogs books, movies, and video games.
• Libib’s cloud sync ensures that your collections are updated across multiple devices so you can access your libraries from anywhere.
• Libib allows you to create up to 100 mixed media collections. You can choose to keep books, movies, games, and music together or keep them separate.
• You can access more power with Libib Pro. The plan lets you conduct lending, barcode management, and single-click restorations.

Libib allows you to catalog up to 5000 items for free, after which you have to upgrade to access better features and create various libraries for your books and other media.

Libib Pro  costs $9 per month or $99 per year, and it allows you to catalog up to 100,000 items.

Check Out : Best Free Audiobook Apps

Anobii is also a perfect place for you if you have a blog. The platform lets you connect your blog to your profile once you register as a user.

The platform also lets you create a book library housing books you’ve already read or wish to read. With Anobii, you can organize and rate books into categories, write reviews, and read.

Unlike Goodreads, which is English-oriented, Anobii is populated with Italian materials; hence, it is easy to find Italian books on the platform.

While Goodreads seems to be all about tagging and listing your books, Anobii is about matching you with other readers who have similar books, tastes, or favorite bookshops.

• The platform allows you to invite your Facebook friends, email contacts, or upload your contact list.
• You can become part of the community by joining discussions and groups.
• It has a vast database of books that are constantly updated. The platform also boasts 2M+ reviews as well as 25M+ ratings.
• Anobii lets you curate a digital library, keep track of your reading progress, build a wish list, and engage with other book lovers.

Anobii is free.

BookSloth lets you connect with readers and discover books. The Puerto Rico-based platform was founded by Xiamara Figueroa and Lincy Ayala and targets young adult readers to communicate with each other and find books.

BookSloth is a social platform that emphasizes readers joining a community. Unlike Goodreads, the platform works like other social sites with followers and options for following, and the app looks a lot like Instagram .

Readers can also review and buy books, and upon clicking the buy button, you’ll be directed to Amazon. BookSloth is a great Goodreads alternative if you don’t mind the small community.

Generally, the platform offers a more enjoyable visual experience and has a clean design. Unlike Goodreads, whose social activities are concentrated on its homepage, BookSloth’s social features are on the app’s community tab.

• BookSloth lets you browse through new books and get personalized reading recommendations.
• Join their bookish community, join discussions, and chat about books you are reading.
• Rate books using badges based on reading elements such as fantastic world-building or fantastic characters.

All features on BookSloth are free.

Also Read : Best Websites Like SparkNotes

Bookly is an android and iOS app that allows you to set and manage your tailored book recommendations, take notes and quotes as you read, set deadlines and goals, and provide you with infographics once you are done with reading.

The platform is rich in features to help you get into a reading routine to help you reach your goals. Bookly is more than a book tracker. What will make you choose it over Goodreads is its feature that lets you save thoughts and quotes.

Bookly helps you digitally annotate your books and save your favorite quotes by speaking out loudly, snapping a pic, or typing it out.

What you’ll also find exciting about Bookly is the readathon that happens four times a year. The Bookly readathon  is a seven-day reading challenge that helps you reach your reading goals.

• Bookly offers real-time reading tracking where you can add up to 10 books to your collection using the free version.
• It gives you a monthly report on how you performed.
• Bookly lets you know how long you are likely to take to finish reading a book.
• Set monthly or yearly goals with reminders to keep you focused and make reading a habit.

The Bookly app is free to download and use and does not require online sign-up.

However, its Pro version, which comes with a seven-day trial, offers  three subscription packages : a one-month subscription at $4.99 per month, a six-month subscription at $19.99, and a one-year subscription at $29.99.

Also Read : Best Citation Machine Alternatives

BookBrowse is another platform like Goodreads that acts as a guide to exceptional books. Unlike the Goodreads website and app, BookBrowse markets itself as a magazine that helps book lovers find their next book without disappointment.

BookBrowse gives you more than just book reviews and previews. It also features author interviews and book reading guides.

The user-friendly readers’ guide is home to the best contemporary nonfiction and fiction range of genres and is a highly curated resource that seeks to recommend the best.

• BookBrowse is easy to use with both free and premium content.
• The platform allows you to browse over 150 reading categories broken down by genre, geographical setting, period, and a wide range of themes.
• BookBrowse features a book that entertains and enlightens. It immerses you for hours in captivating storytelling and intriguing pieces of literature.

BookBrowse offers some features for free. However, you need to subscribe to gain full access to BookBrowse. The platform provides  individual subscription options : a three-month membership at $5, billed quarterly and a one-year subscription at $3.75 per month, billed annually.

Check Out : Best Mybib Alternatives

BookTrib is another exciting alternative to Goodreads that has established itself as a lifestyle destination for book lovers.

BookTrib is also a marketing engine for publishers and authors, and like Goodreads, it allows you to catalog books, provides news, and allows you to leave reviews.

It also offers articles on all things related to books and is in-depth in what it covers. You also get a chance to chat live with authors and even conduct book giveaways.

• BookTrib offers rich content for readers and marketing opportunities for authors.
• It has a well-developed portfolio of affordable and effective programs to help authors get in front of their target audience and build their following.
• BookTrib boasts a monthly website visit of up to 70,000 unique visitors and more than 94,000 social media followers made of discerning readers and rising authors.
• The site also features in-depth interviews, video discussions, podcasts, reviews, and writers writing about fellow authors.

You’ll enjoy the special BookTrib weekly sale on eBooks if you are an author. You can put your eBook on sale to reach over 170,000 readers for $49.95.

Listing  with BookTrib gives you a 500-character description of your book. The description includes an image of your book cover, links to major eBook retailers where your book sale is active, and exposes you to 94,000 BookTrib social media followers and 70,000 website visitors.

Also Read : Zotero vs Mendeley

Bookstr is one of the fastest growing social discovery platforms for books that functions like Goodreads.

Bookstr boasts a large member base that actively recommends and reviews authors and readers through virtual discussion forums and book clubs. Similar to Goodreads, Bookstr allows you to create a profile as a member to connect to your blog.

One thing that will interest you about this platform is the chance to join its affiliate program. You can earn a commission through the affiliate program, especially when your followers purchase books using the purchase links from the Reading Room.

• Bookstr makes discovering books more informative, entertaining, and socially engaging by offering the best recommendations from people you know and trust.
• Bookstr partnered with Gather Network to revolutionize how book lovers consume content.
• Bookstr is designed to target the US audience. Therefore, it is operated and governed based on the laws of the United States.
• Bookstr allows you to enjoy its benefits without disclosing your personal information using a pseudonym.
• Bookstr allows you to grow your book blog and connect with people who share your passion for reading.

Bookstr is free to use.

Check Out : Best Reference Manager Software For Research

BookLikes lets you discover books through engaging with reviews and book blogs. Unlike Goodreads, BookLikes is a blog platform for book lovers, which also doubles as a cataloging site.

It lets you shelve and tag books based on your reading status, i.e., what you have read, what you plan to read, or what you are currently reading.

BookLikes also has an exciting feature that allows you to add a star rating to as many books as you like and put them on your virtual bookshelf. Like Goodreads, BookLikes is a social platform that connects you with other passionate readers, reviewers, writers, and bloggers.

• If you love reading, you’ll love BookLikes. The platform helps you share your reading life, discover new books, and connect with fellow book lovers.
• There is no limit on the number of books you can have on a BookLikes virtual shelf. There are also no limits to the number of reviews, books, and new book friends you can make.
• BookLikes is available in English, Polish, and German. You can freely switch between languages on the settings page or homepage.
• To log in through social media, you must first connect your social media profiles in General/page settings.

BookLikes is free.

Also Read : Best EasyBib Alternatives

Likewise allows you to connect with readers who share your passion and reading tastes. To start with Likewise, you first need to create an account, after which you can select some of your favorite reads.

The accuracy of your reading recommendations from the app is highly determined by the many times you use the app and the many times you feed the app with your thoughts.

• Likewise is algorithm-based. However, it is also built on reader feedback and recommendations, making it more personal than Goodreads.
• The app also has a section for movies, podcasts, and TV shows for media lovers.
• Likewise features simplified streaming where you can stream all your shows in one place for free.
• Likewise is socially powered. You can get suggestions from friends or the communities on what to read, watch, or listen to.

Likewise is free.

Also Read : Best Apps Like Wattpad

12. Tailored Book Recommendations  

Last on my list of the best Goodreads alternatives is Tailored Book Recommendations (TBR). TBR takes the better part of Goodreads recommendations and makes them more personal.

If you use Goodreads and want real readers’ recommendations, you need to  sign up  for the TBR service. The platform also allows you to give feedback, make special requests, change your survey responses, and drop in as many recommendation orders as possible.

• Start by taking a survey on your reading likes and dislikes, what you want to see more of, and your deal breakers (you can add a link to your Goodreads account). The survey also allows you to share movies, podcasts, and TV shows you like.
• TBR sends your recommendations through email within two weeks of signing up. Hardcover books, on the other hand, are shipped within four weeks.
• You can give TBR as a  gift  for $16, and you can get options for different budgets.
• TBR boasts over 27,500 books having been read between 2010 to date. The team at TBR is up to the task of getting the numbers high and boosting the number of pages read to over 10 million.

To only receive recommendations via email costs $16 billed quarterly or $52 when billed yearly.

TBR also has a more advanced level (the hardcover level) that lets you receive three books through email at $80 plus a $7.50 shipping fee when billed quarterly and $325 when billed yearly with free shipping.

Also Read : Best Alternatives To Calibre

There is more out there than Goodreads, and I hope what I just shared will help you choose the right platform to meet your reading and cataloging needs.

All these platforms come with plenty of helpful features, but if you are looking for a platform with better search functions that let you set up multiple reading challenges, then the platform to go for is The StoryGraph.

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