Rating a Review

How Do I Review?

In my reviews, I include either a summary within the review or the synopsis (usually from Goodreads, but not always) at the top prior to my personal review.

The review consists of a my personal reflections and thoughts on the characters (strengths, weaknesses, do I connect with them?), settings, plot, writing style (including tone and language), imagery, and enjoyability of the book. Each book is unique and interesting in its own right-- just like the authors who create such illustrative worlds with dynamic characters. Therefore, I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all method of rating. Maybe it's the teacher in me, but I look at each book as an individual entity. I want to see how that single book displays those components. 

I also try to find things that grab my attention. Maybe it's the use of strong metaphors or analogies. Maybe it's the tragic, yet undeniable romantic connection between the heroine and hero, or the unique alternate universe, the urban 'underworld, or  the ability to make me believe in the unbelievable. Whatever the case may be, I try to highlight those qualities that stand out to me -- which may include me citing a sentence or two that I found particularly amazing.

I do try to be honest and fair, with keeping in mind that it is someone's creation, passion, and love. With that being said, the most important thing to keep in mind with any review, is that it is personal. These are my thoughts and no one else.

Rating Scale:

I also give half points if I feel as though it shouldn't be a whole number. For example, maybe I felt as though a book exceeded my expectations of a '4', but wasn't quite a '5' do to some issues-- I would then rate the book a '4.5'.