Decoding My Star Ratings: What Each Rating Means in My Book Reviews

Star ratings are very subjective. They are highly dependent on the reviewer and can often seem too varied between every reviewers. So, if they are so subjective, how then do I rate books and what do my stars mean?

While the system can seem simple, there are a lot of nuances hidden in each rating and it's always best to remember that these ratings are completely subjective and honestly, may change based on my mood. But, let's go ahead and break down the meaning behind my star ratings and what it says about a book.

Another quick note: these rating are based on "full" stars. If I give something a "half" star, then typically that means that I found the book to be in between the two ratings - it needed more than the lower rating but didn't quite get the higher rating.

5 Stars: A Masterpiece to Be Read and Admired

A 5-star rating the gold standard. To me, this means that the book is a masterpiece—an exceptional piece of writing that not only captivated me from the start to finish but also leaves a lasting impact. This book goes beyond just being “good.”

These books are often exceptional in their writing, plot, and characters. The book is often an emotionally powerful story, and is worth celebrating, and it earns a place on my shelf forever.

I would like to note that while I think that this book is exceptional, I may not feel like it is fit to recommend widely. An example book for me is Written in Blood by Anne Bishop. I absolutely LOVE this book and rated it 5 stars, but it is very niche - and I wouldn't just recommend this to anyone.

A book I would recommend to everyone that is 5 stars would be Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly.

4 Stars: A Great Book Worth Reading

A book that earns 4 stars is one that stands out as a great read. It might not be a “masterpiece,” but it’s still highly enjoyable, well-written, and satisfying. These kinds of books often have strong characters, an engaging plot, and enough emotional depth to keep me hooked. They just might be missing that one element that would elevate them to perfection. They are still worth the read.

Additionally, this is the kind of book that I often recommend to friends looking for something new or interesting to read. An example of these books would be the Lizzie Grace series (Blood Kissed is book one) by Keri Arthur or Unravel by Amelia Loken.

3 Stars: Suitable for an Uncomplicated Read

Books that are 3 stars are a mixed bag—they’re not bad, but they’re not great either. They’re fine. A 3-star book typically has a decent plot and likable characters, but it’s often missing that special spark that would make it stand out in a crowd.

These books are perfectly suitable for a light, uncomplicated read when I'm in the mood for something that doesn’t require too much thought. They’re not particularly challenging or groundbreaking, but they provide a perfectly fine reading experience.

An example of one of my 3-star books is The Whispering Dark by Kelly Andrew.

2 Stars: Can Be Read if No Other Options Are Available

A 2-star rating usually indicates that this book had such a potential to be good... but ultimately doesn’t deliver. It’s often disappointing, leaving me feeling like the story or characters had potential, but something went wrong.

These books are not completely awful—they may have a few redeeming qualities—but they’re usually not worth going out of your way to read. In fact, a two-star book is sometimes worse than a one-star book because it had the potential to be great but ultimately failed to live up to expectations. If you’re really desperate for something to read and there’s nothing else around, this could work—but you might want to look for other options first.

An example of this from my list is Small Town, Big Magic by Hazel Beck. I just felt it could've been so much more - but missed it's mark.

1 Star: I Do Not Recommend - Proceed with Caution

A 1-star rating signifies a truly dreadful book. In my opinion, a 1-star book has failed in nearly every area: writing, plot, character development, pacing, and overall enjoyment. And it is very personal to me, so if I don't like it, it doesn't mean that another person has to dislike it as too. However, typically, the book does have major flaws. I personally am working on DNF-ing (did not finish) a book that I can feel will be 1-star. I have yet to do this, but honestly, I am trying.

An example of this one for me is Every Wrong You Right by J.E. Parker. That book needed a Deaf Sensitivity Reader as everything in there contradicted itself and most of the community views. shudder This book used "disability" to try to get more views instead of making a strong Deaf character.

A 1-star book is usually so disappointing on such a level that I'm actively discourage others from reading it (please, please don't read that book). If you see me give a one-star review, proceed with caution.

Why Star Ratings Matter

Star ratings are a way to help readers quickly gauge whether a book is worth their time. It's a simplified way to see what others believe about the book without having to dive into lengthy reviews. It's just important to remember that ratings are subjective. A 5-star book for me might not be the same for another, and that’s okay.

At the end of the day, whether a book earns 5 stars or 1 star, it’s the experience of reading that counts. Star ratings offer an overview, but your personal enjoyment and interpretation of the story are what truly matter.

Now I'm curious ... how do you rate your books?

Happy Reading!