Trang’s back after a whole week hiatus LOL (again T_T) You guys know how I write my posts very randomly and even if I want to keep a schedule, I don’t stick to it and only follow what inspires me in the moment. This is a question I always to ask bookworms and discuss :
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO SCORE A 5 STARS RATING ?
The book reviewing process is VERY subjective alright. I’ll try to list all the aspects that must appear in a 5 stars book for me. It is however possible that I might add some on the list with upcoming reads.
I’m the kind of reader who likes to feel attached to the character or at least, relate to them on some level. A very good book should be able to make us realize the evolution of the character. In their actions, in their words, even in their non-verbal aspects. They have flaws. I must admit I hate perfect heroes. I need some struggling backstories or even some weird flaws that show us the world is not perfect. It will never be. But you can make a good story out of it and grow out of it too.
“Laugh as much as possible, always laugh. It’s the sweetest thing one can do for oneself & one’s fellow human beings.” – Maya Angelou
A BOOK THAT MAKES ME LAUGH HAVE AN 80% OF CHANCE OF ENDING UP HAVING A GOOD RATING. It’s as simple as that. I also find unexpected humour to be the best ones 😉 Like you’re reading a very serious book and then suddenly you burst out laughing in the subway because you didn’t expect that at all. Something that The Hearts Invisible Furies did VERY well.
I already mentioned it in my Villain post, but nothing beats a good villain. When it’s really well done and with a good backstory, I feel like I can always root for them. Villains just make everything sexier 😉 I mean.. HOW BADASS IS AIDAN FROM ILLUMINAE?
This point right here is what makes a 4 stars book jump to a 5 stars book for me. I admire plot twists because I think it’s so hard nowadays to create a good one. With all the books out there, there’s always been SOMETHING that’s been done already. So when I encountered a good one, I cherish with all my heart because they are endangered species.
In my opinion, a book should be able to make you feel something. Make you feel anything. From anger, to sadness to joy and happiness. It has to be able to transport you in a compelling journey, where words are the principle magic ingredient at the heart of the novel. And it’s okay if I find a book emotional and you don’t. There are so many books out there for all types of people 😉
A book can be A SUPER GOOD FOR LIKE 90% and then the 10% conclusion is shitty as fuck. It will drop my rating SO BAD. Just like a strong opening, you need to conclude your book in beauty. Cliffhangers have to be done right. A plot twist ending is even harder. And a rushed conclusion is what I hate the most! A good balance of tension and release is key for a good conclusion.
I have some other requirements but they all depend on the genres I’m reading ! For example, for a science-fiction, the science background has to be well researched, the world-building is a must in a Fantasy book. Since they don’t always apply to all genres, I prefer to not include in this post.
What are some of your criteria for 5 stars rating ?! 🙂 I’d love to read your thoughts on it 😀
Until next time,
I also love it when the book pulls on my heart-strings, but not when my heart is ripped out and stomped on the floor. Or scared. Do not scare me or you will be DNF’d, book! 😉
My Dark Theories 
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