Slate Daily Feed ICYMI | The Summer That Broke BookTok
Aug 27, 2025
Discover the chaotic aftermath of two recent BookTok conventions, one dubbed the 'Fyre Fest.' Explore troubling allegations of misconduct and the broader implications of social media on fandom dynamics. The discussion highlights the emotional toll of disappointing events and the clash between community expectations and reality. Humor and candid critiques bring to light the challenges of organizing conventions and the necessity of accountability in fan interactions. It's a whirlwind of romance, drama, and the complexities within the BookTok community.
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Fyre‑Like Romance Festival
- Archer Management marketed A Million Lives as a romance convention for debut authors and fans but delivered poor organization and turnout.
- Authors reported few attendees, no basic supplies, and financial losses from unpaid book sales.
When Small Events Harm Authors
- Small organizers selling vendor tables can put authors at financial risk if turnout fails.
- A public recovery site and promised refunds signaled systemic operational failure, not just bad planning.
Assault And Tracking At A Dark‑Romance Ball
- At Sinners and Stardust a roaming entertainer was allegedly assaulted and later tracked with an AirTag from the ball to his hotel.
- The incident caused panic, retraumatization, and public calls about whether to press charges.
