Editorial policy & review methodology
Last updated: 2 July 2026
Our promise
Every review on Good Digital Books is written by a human reviewer who has read the book. We don't publish AI-generated review copy, we don't repackage publisher blurbs, and we don't rate books we haven't finished (with one exception — see "DNF" below).
How reviewers are chosen
Reviewers are assigned by genre affinity. A regular fantasy reader reviews fantasy; a business reader reviews business books. This keeps ratings honest — a five-star thriller from someone who never reads thrillers is worthless information.
Our rating scale
- 5 / 5 — Exceptional. We recommend without qualification.
- 4 / 5 — Very good. Worth your time; small reservations noted.
- 3 / 5 — Solid but flawed. Right reader, right time — check the review.
- 2 / 5 — Weak. Interesting idea, poor execution.
- 1 / 5 — Skip it. We rarely publish these unless a book is being widely over-hyped.
What every review includes
- A short verdict (one paragraph) up top.
- Who the book is for — and who should skip it.
- Key takeaways or plot notes without spoilers beyond the first act.
- A direct comparison to at least one similar book, where relevant.
- Links to buy in the formats we actually recommend.
"DNF" (did not finish) reviews
We occasionally publish a "DNF" note when a highly promoted book fails so badly that finishing it would waste reader money. These are clearly labelled and never include a numeric star rating.
Gifted copies and publisher relationships
Publishers sometimes send us review copies. That never buys a positive rating. Where a book was a gifted review copy, we note it in the review. We do not accept payment, sponsored placements, or "guaranteed coverage" arrangements.
Affiliate links
Buy buttons on the site are Amazon Associates affiliate links. We earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate revenue has zero influence on which books we cover or how we rate them. See our affiliate disclosure for the legal detail.
Updates, revisions and corrections
Reviews are living documents. We revisit ratings when a book's sequel is released, when errata are corrected, or when reader feedback flags a factual mistake. Every update carries a dated note. Factual corrections are made within 48 hours of verification.
How to flag a problem
Spot a factual error, a broken link, or something that reads unfairly? Email us via the contact page. We read everything and reply to real enquiries.
Independence
Good Digital Books is not owned by a publisher, retailer, or media group. Editorial decisions sit with the editor and are not subject to advertiser approval.