Do you buy a book based on the reviews or on the rating? Or neither for that matter?
Recently I have been more aware that I have been buying books that have no less than 4 stars on goodreads…and I’m starting to feel hella guilty.
I find that I’m not picking up books because I like the sound of them, I’m actually getting my phone out and checking the rating on goodreads to make sure it’s worth my time reading.
It’s totally unintentional and I have only just realised I’m doing it. Maybe because I hardly ever have enough money so when I buy a book I want to make sure it’s worth it? Regardless, it’s not fair on all the other books that are going unread by me because of the rating on goodreads.
It was over the past few weeks where I read a great review about a book that I personally would never have read because I didn’t like another book by the same author, but it’s called The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern.
I’m aware now that it does have over 4 stars on goodreads, but what I didn’t do is look at the rating first before the review. Then I thought…why I haven’t I been doing this all along?! No need for judgemental stars, but honest words and opinions by those that have experienced the books themselves.
Do you find rating a book difficult? Because I don’t understand the rating system that much; I tend to rate books high (5 stars) or not rate them at all if I’m not sure. And if I’m not the only one that doesn’t full understand, then is buying a book based on ratings unreliable??? 😱
The epiphany is real, and I’m definitely going to be more conscious about buying a book due to their rating.
It would be great to hear your answers to my questions, so I look forward to your lovely comments 😍
YouAreMyNewBook 
When I buy books, I tend to buy them based on reviews / ratings / “hype”, the plot, the author, and even sometimes the publisher.
Largely though, I choose things based on the plot – if it doesn’t sound good to me, I won’t buy it, and I won’t read it.
I do read reviews and check ratings too – only after I’ve read it, though, so it doesn’t distort my own perception of the book. For example, I won’t go into a “5 star” purchase feeling elated before I’ve even read the thing, and I won’t hesitantly begin a “2 star” purchase and worry if I should continue with it x
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I’m glad I’m not the only one then 🙈 and great idea to check ratings and reviews after reading! 😍 will have to do that! ☺️
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