Have you ever read one of my reviews and wondered, “Hey, she rated this as a three star read. Does that mean she hated it or does she recommend it to every fantasy lover she comes across”? Well, wonder no more. Here’s a breakdown of my book rating system.

Of course, I had to keep with the fantasy theme of my blog and use gems instead of stars to rate my books! All graphics were designed by the incredibly talented Kat @ Novels and Waffles, who also did the rest of the designing and art found on my blog,

Now, onward to book ratings!

1 Gem: Not worth the adventure

There’s a lot of reasons why this might not have been for me. It could have been riddled with typos and poorly formatted. The story could be boring. Or have characters I don’t connect with. Perhaps a plot I’m not emotionally invested in.

Whatever the reason, it was still enough to not make me DNF entirely, but a book I rate 1 gem? Not worth adventuring, in my opinion.

2 Gems: Arrow in the knee

I mean, it’s not that it’s the worst book I’ve ever read. Something captivated me, whether it’s a hero to root for, the story was intriguing or a twist at the end that truly shocked me into being just impressed. But while I didn’t completely hate the book, I found more that I disliked about it than not.

We’re not recommending this one, friends.

3 Gems: Spotted a dragon, but still sleeping on tree roots

This is one that I enjoyed. I didn’t regret reading the book. I most likely had fun reading it. Plus, it was well written, without typos and formatting issues. The characters and the story were prolly enticing. Did I fall completely in love with it? No. Will I probably read more by this author or continue the series? Absolutely!

Finished it, liked it, will recommend it if I think someone will like it better than me.

4 Gems: Kicked over three mugs singing in the tavern about this

I mean, I loved this book. I was emotionally invested in these characters. The plot was engaging and the writing enticing, making me jealous I’m not this good a writer. I have definitely shouted about this book on social media. If it’s the first book by an author that I’ve read, it most certainly won’t be the last.

Finished it, loved it and you definitely know about it.

5 Gems: Scored the treasure and the maiden rescued herself

I would die for this book.

Obviously.

I LOVED it. This book made me feel more reading it than I usually do living my actual day-to-day. These characters are as real as friends. I have opinions about it and my review is prolly filled with cursing and ALL CAPS gushing to show you. Five gem authors go up to my favorite-of-all-time list and I will read anything they publish.

DEVOURED it, adored it and have shouted at you to read it at least 100 times.

So, that’s my book rating system! Hopefully it helps clear up some of my distinctions on how I rate and what those scales are. If you ever have a question about a rating, please, never hesitate to ask. I’m always happy to clarify or discuss feelings about a particular book. Happy Reading!

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