Get Rich or Lie Trying: Ambition and Deceit in the New Influencer Economy by Symeon Brown is a fascinating and eye-opening look at the world of social media influencers. Brown, a journalist and author, spent two years researching the industry, interviewing influencers, marketers, and other experts. The result is a book that is both entertaining and disturbing, as it reveals the dark side of the influencer economy.

One of the most striking things about Brown’s book is the extent to which influencers are willing to lie and deceive in order to succeed. Brown tells the story of one influencer who faked her own death in order to gain attention, and another who used a fake name and location to make herself seem more popular. He also describes the ways in which influencers are manipulated by brands and marketers, who often pressure them to promote products that they don’t actually use or believe in.

In addition to the lies and deception, Brown also exposes the exploitation and abuse that is rampant in the influencer economy. We learn of one influencer who was forced to work long hours for little pay, and another who was sexually harassed by a brand manager. He also describes the way in which influencers are often used to sell products that are harmful or dangerous.

Get Rich or Lie Trying is a sobering look at the dark side of the influencer economy. Brown’s book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in social media, marketing, or the future of work. It is a reminder that the glamorous world of influencers is not all it seems, and that there is a dark side to the pursuit of fame and fortune. It was an easy read making it suitable for anyone interested in social media and paints a cautionary tale for would be influencers.

As someone slightly older than the demographic of most people these influencers would wish to be known to, but also someone who has worked in marketing for 20 years, I found the manner in which brands engage with would be influencers particularly insightful. The book also made me wonder how the world of marketing would change in the next 20 years.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.