My 5-star Rating Scale:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – knocked my socks off

Awarded sparingly to the very best books that are exceptional in every way. Always a highly recommended must-read with important themes and beautiful writing.

One Word: Mind-blown.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ – loved every minute

A joy to read from start to finish, with meaningful themes and plenty of substance. A book I’d frequently recommend, though it doesn’t quite reach the rarefied “WOW” tier.

One Word: Winner.

⭐⭐⭐ – good enough

The premise might be strong, but the execution is lacking in places. Perfect for a lazy Sunday or a beach bag, but nowhere near legendary.

One Word: Meh-morable.

⭐⭐ – not my favorite

We tried. We really did. But halfway through, I was checking my phone and thinking of better books. Some redeeming qualities, but the spark just fizzled.

One Word: Snooze. 

⭐ – red flag

Nope. This book and I broke up halfway through, and I’m never calling back. Characters flat, plot thin, writing bland. Straight to the donation pile.

One Word: Bye-bye.