[FEATURE]: In-App Book Preview via Google Books Embedded Viewer #403

Feature Summary

Enable users to read a preview of books directly in Bibliodrift using the Google Books Embedded Viewer API.

Problem Statement

Currently, users can browse and save books in their library but cannot preview or read content within the platform. This creates friction, as users must leave the application to verify book relevance. The lack of in-app preview reduces engagement and limits the platform’s usefulness as a reading companion.

Proposed Solution

Integrate the Google Books Embedded Viewer API to display a preview (typically ~20%) of books in the app. The viewer should be embedded within the book detail page and handle cases where preview is unavailable. Ensure responsive design and smooth loading for a seamless reading experience.

Alternatives Considered

Redirecting users to external links (breaks UX continuity)
Static previews (limited interactivity)

Additional Context

Impact: Improves user engagement and usability
Affected Components: Book detail page, API integration layer
Estimated Effort: Hard (requires API integration, iframe handling, and fallback states for unavailable previews)