Appearance: 5
The appearance of a book can make a significant impact on the experience of a reader, whose enjoyment is often enhanced by an enticing cover, an intriguing table of contents, interesting chapter headings, and when possible, eye-catching illustrations.
Plot: 4
The characters of a book should be well defined with strengths and flaws, and while they do not have to be likable, the reader does have to be able to form a connection with them. The tone should be consistent, the theme should be clear, and the plot should be original or told from a unique perspective. For informative books -- those without plot and characters--this rating refers primarily to your concept and how well you presented it.
Development: 5
Development refers to how effectively you told your story or discussed your topic. The dialogue should be realistic, the descriptions should be vivid, and the material should be concise and coherent. Organization is also a key factor, especially for informative books -- those without plot and characters. The order in which you tell your story or explain your topic and how smoothly it flows can have a huge impact on the reader's understanding and enjoyment of the material.
Formatting: 5
Formatting is the single most overlooked area by authors. The way in which you describe scenes, display dialogue, and shift point of view can make or break your story. In addition, excessive grammatical errors and typos can give your book an amateurish feel and even put off readers completely.
Marketability: 5
Marketability refers to how effectively you wrote your book for your target audience. Authors may include content that is above or below the understanding of their target reader, or include concepts, opinions or language that can accidentally confuse or alienate some readers. Although by its nature this rating is very subjective, a very low rating here and poor reviews may indicate an issue with your book in this area.
Overall Opinion: 5
The overall starred rating takes into account all these elements and describes the overall reading experience of your reviewer. This is the official Readers' Favorite review rating for your book.
Review:
Reviewed by Daniel D Staats for Readers' Favorite What is it like to see active service in the army? What is it like to see duty in Iraq? What is it like to return home without a plan for the future? How do you feel when you consider suicide? What is it like to be a law enforcement officer? What is it like to develop PTSD? How does one overcome all these obstacles to living an abundant life? Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Nathan Gould in Service to Civilian and you will see. Sgt. Gould has experienced each of these events and survived. He shares his story to encourage and aid all those who have served in the military. Unfortunately, statistics tell us that roughly 22 veterans commit suicide every day. Sgt. Gould wants veterans to walk the road to recovery with him. He is an experienced guide leading others to safety. He is also a Christian and shares the help which God provided to him during tough times. Nathan Gould has written a memoir with a purpose and compassion and concern. In Service to Civilian, Gould shares his experiences in the military and as a law enforcement officer. What he witnessed in Iraq caused him to develop PTSD. Gould had no one to turn to until forced to do so. He wants to help his brothers-in-arms avoid the pain he suffered. Gould does not want any family to have to face the results of suicide. Even though it was hard to write about his experiences, he does so with grace and concern. His writing is straight and to the point while being compassionate and understanding. He opens his deep heart secrets and shares what most men—especially military men and women—dare not admit. He provides resources at the back of the book. This book is a must- read for anyone who is or has a family member who is a veteran.