Prince Harry's autobiography, "Spare," has faced a challenging reception, ranking as one of the poorest-rated celebrity books, according to research by QR code experts.
The book, filled with damaging allegations against senior members of the royal family, notably lags behind other celebrity-authored works. The analysis of ratings on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon revealed that Sir Paul McCartney's "The Lyrics: 1956 to Present" secured the top spot with an impressive overall rating of 4.75 out of 5.
Celebrity books are often embraced by readers seeking insights into unique journeys, fostering a sense of intimacy and connection. Ratings play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and influencing book sales, serving as a crucial metric for potential readers. Positive ratings boost confidence and contribute to a book's discoverability in online marketplaces and bookstores.
Entertainment Tonight reported that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle signed a lucrative four-book deal with Penguin Random House, estimated to be worth $35 to $40 million. This deal, however, appears to be under scrutiny, with suggestions that Penguin Random House may have overpaid.
Despite the substantial advance, "Spare" faces challenges, ranking as one of the most abandoned books of 2023. Reports indicate that copies of the 46-page diatribe have been left in hotel rooms, bins, and poolside at resorts across Europe.
In a surprising turn, tour operators have received numerous abandoned copies, with some hotel workers expressing frustration at the surplus of leftover books. The situation has led to a humorous suggestion that perhaps others should "take a LEF out of Harry's book" to spare themselves the bother.
Penguin Random House's decision to provide free copies of the audiobook in an attempt to boost sales appears to have backfired, especially as "Spare" received no nominations. Rumors circulate that the publishing house may be seeking $35 million from Prince Harry for contract violations, stemming from contradictions between the autobiography and statements made during the phone hacking trial against Mirror Group Newspapers. The CEO's reported dissatisfaction with Harry and the potential termination of the book deal add further complexity to the aftermath of "Spare."
