Below I have outlined my own rating scale. My reviews are simply my opinions and my thoughts on a particular book right after I finish reading them. My opinions and how I rate books have evolved over time. Not everyone will agree with my reviews, and that’s okay.
NOTE ON RATINGS: I do consider a 3-star rating a positive review. I am very picky about which books I will give 5 stars. Since I don’t have a higher rating than 5 stars, I reserve that rating for the books that I find absolutely spectacular and that moved me.
IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! I’M TOTALLY OBSESSED! — This book was absolutely breathtaking. I LOVED it. The characters were memorable and had distinct voices. The plot line of this book held my attention and was unique, and the pacing was fantastic. The author’s writing style is another reason for the high rating. I love reading books with a consistent, lyrical writing style that flows well. These books often stay with me for a long time. After finishing, I can’t stop thinking about it. I often reread this book multiple times. Highly Recommended!
I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — This book was a really enjoyable read. I really liked it. Some moments I may have even loved. There may have been a few things that I felt could be improved upon. Or there may be nothing wrong with the book, it just didn’t blow me away. I would recommend this book to most people and think most people would really enjoy this book. Go read this book!
IT WAS GOOD! — This book was good. I didn’t love it and I didn’t dislike it. There maybe have been a few things that bothered me while reading this book and it may have been slow in parts. I would still recommend this book; it just wasn’t a favorite of mine.
I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS — There may have been a few moments that I liked. This rating is often reserved for books that are lacking in some areas—writing, characterization, and/or problematic plot lines. But there may have been some moments of enjoyment for me.
NOT MY CUP OF TEA — I disliked this book and had several issues with it. There wasn’t anything about the book that I enjoyed. Some things in this book may have been offensive to me.
DID NOT FINISH — I will not rate a book that I shelf as “did not finish.” I don’t believe it’s fair to put a rating on books I didn’t read from beginning to end.
