Happy New Year!
Crikey! It’s been a bit of a year here on Linda’s Book Bag and as I publish this first post of 2019 and look back over 2018 I’m a little bit overwhelmed by it all.
I first began the blog in 2015 as a tentative means to share my reviews of the books I read, little believing that anyone would bother to look at it. It seems to have been a bit like Topsy since then and, having hit well over 11,000 followers on Twitter, in 2018 I decided to showcase as many authors as I could through a ‘staying in with’ idea; particularly those writers from small publishers, or authors independently published, who don’t have big teams behind them. I wanted to help as many writers as possible get noticed by as many readers as possible. I was inundated with requests and eventually had to turn away more people than I could accommodate, but 271 different authors came along to ‘stay in’ with me and showcase their books. I blogged 603 times in 2018 with only a handful of duplicate authors so I think I may have achieved what I set out to do!
In fact, I’ve been amazed at the seeming popularity of Linda’s Book Bag and I was certainly absolutely thrilled to win the Best Overall Blog in the Bloggers Blast Awards this year – so a huge thank you to whoever nominated me and to those who voted for me. I was overwhelmed.
However, all these blog posts have come at a cost. Over 2018 I’ve been struggling to keep on top of it all and fulfil promises I have made for blog slots, particularly with Mum being so unwell and needing my time and attention so often. Each of my blog posts takes a minimum of an hour to put together, including emails to and from the authors and publishers, tweeting and sharing in various groups on Facebook, setting up the post, researching authors, finding images, author links and so on. Of course, many posts take much longer, and that’s without any reading time for reviews too.
I estimate that average working days are the equivalent of 9-5 with at least 30 minutes off for lunch. This means that, aside from the times when I didn’t blog at all when I was on holiday in Uganda, India, Bali and Indonesia, with the posts I have blogged in 2018, I have spent the equivalent of at least 75 to 80 days or 15 to 16 weeks blogging solidly as if I were still working full time!
I’m exhausted. I usually spend three to five hours a day on what is supposed to be my hobby and I have come to realise that whilst I’ve been trying to help others to get their books seen by as many people as possible, I have not given myself enough time to do the thing I enjoy most – read. I’ve tried to be all things to all people and I can’t maintain the pace!
Add in the time taken up by my elderly mother, my complete inability to type accurately, osteoarthritis in my fingers and sight problems (a tiny hole in my left retina, an epimacular membrane as a result of PVD, conflicting astigmatisms in each eye, myopia to -12.5 in my left eye and -12 in the right with cataracts now developing in both eyes), I have decided this level of commitment to blogging is unsustainable. And I know I keep saying this, but I really would like to have a go at some writing of my own and finish that languishing novel…
Therefore, I’ve decided to be selfishly kind to myself and I’m taking a bit of a blogging sabbatical in 2019. I did wonder if I might stop blogging altogether, but I love it too much to do so and I am enormously grateful for all the exciting opportunities it affords me, especially when I get to meet favourite authors. I had already agreed to participate in 14 tours and guest posts in 2019 before I made my decision and I’ll go ahead with them as planned and I am already suffering terrible FOMO as I keep declining some utterly wonderful books and tours.
However, I’m involved in what I hope will be a fabulous Literary Festival in the area where I live and I need to devote some time to that.
I’m also off to Sri Lanka, Singapore and Malaysia for almost a month, so for the first six months of 2019 it is my intention to step back a bit from blogging and concentrate on reading and reviewing at my own pace without the commitment to guest posts and blog tours that I’m currently finding quite stressful. I already have some cracking looking books for 2019.
I hope all the authors, publishers and tour organisers who’ve asked for slots in 2019 whom I’ve turned down will understand, and I’d like to thank them for their interest in appearing on the blog (except perhaps for the one who sent me an unsolicited e-copy of their book via email with a message that simply said, ‘Madam. Here’s my book for you to review immediately’ with no other salutation or message at all! I confess I put that straight in the trash without replying!).
I’m looking forward to sharing my reviews of some superb books in 2019 – and knowing me I won’t be able to keep up my intention not to take on anything else as I hate letting people down, but for the moment, my blogging new year resolution is to have some time to myself to read, read, read!
Happy New Year everyone and keeeeep reading!
Giveaway
To celebrate the love of reading that I am going to concentrate on here on Linda’s Book Bag in 2019, and to thank all of you who have been so brilliant in supporting the blog through sharing posts, taking part on the blog and providing books, I’m going to start the year by spreading some book love of my own.
If you would like to enter to win either a £20 or $20 Amazon voucher or a £20 National Book Token if, like me, you prefer to support a local bookshop, click here.
The giveaway is open internationally and closes at UK midnight on Tuesday 8th January 2019 after which time I will not retain your details under those pesky GDPR rules! Good luck and do take part – this is open to ALL.
Hope you have a lovely sabbatical!!! I think you should get ‘The Day We Met’ in ebook in Feb. My god what a book!!!! X
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Wishing you all the best Linda. Well done for all your hard work and dedication to authors and your love of reading. Happy New Year. Enjoy!
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Happy New Year, Linda. I hope your year will pan out as you hope and I respect your decision to take back some time to read. I know how huge your tbr pile is! I’m very grateful for your support, for your review of my short stories and having me as a guest. Really appreciate it. I look forward to reading more reviews in 2019 (if my bank balance can take it) because I’ve found some cracking good reads on your blog. Take care. All the best.
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I will have to think on that.
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Completely understandable Linda. Concentrate on the reading and enjoy! Happy New Year to you xx
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Happy New Year Linda! You certainly deserve some you time 😍🥂🎊
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Think Night of the Living Trekkies is one you should read.
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I tried to leave a blog post comment on Rafflecopter regarding what book I thought you may enjoy reading while on your sabbatical but for some reason Rafflecopter would not allow me to do so (although it did accept all of my other entries). In the hope that you may accept this as my blog comment instead I would like to suggest “The Library Book” by Susan Orlean. It is due out later this month I believe and I will be ordering a copy myself. I wish you all the very best for this brand new year and in what ever you do. Kind regards, Kenneth Green
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You’ve definitely made the right decision Linda. Happy New Year to you & your family, hopefully see you soon xxxr
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if you’re anything like me you will have bought so many books that you wanted to read but haven’t got around to due to blogging commitments so I should take a look at your book shelves and choose the one that you fancy the most. It planning to try & read a couple of my own books each month this year.
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Happy new year, Linda. I do look at the number of posts you do with awe. I know from my own blogging that setting up posts like the ones you do is very time consuming which is why I ran the Poetry Readathon during my holiday when I had more time. All the best with your new regime. I look forward to reading your reviews going forward. Hugs.
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Hello, Linda. I’m quite relieved that you’re stepping back a bit. As long as that won’t include the book group! Happy new year and see you at our next.
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I can well understand your need to step back a bit from blogging. I’ve often thought about starting a book blog myself, but I know from craft blogging how time consuming it is and I don’t want anything to eat into my precious reading time, or make me even more committed than I already am, with Amazon and Good Reads reviews, to reading books that are maybe not what I would have chosen at that point in time.
I’m envious of your travels, I’d love to revisit Singapore and Malaysia. You’ll need a good long book to while away the hours on the plane so I recommend The Blue Bench by Paul Marriner.
Jane Willis
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Thanks Kaisha! I shall take your advice and get The Day We Met!
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Thanks Marje. Happy New Year to you too.
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Thank YOU, Mary, for being on the blog and for all your support. I’ve enjoyed hosting you and I look forward to having you back in the future.
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Dear Linda, I wish you all the best. Have a wonderful sabbatical and look after yourself. Write that novel! xx
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It’s been surprisingly difficult to make the decision!
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Thanks Joanne. I hope 2019 will be kinder to you too.
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Thanks Ritu – and for dropping by so often. I really appreciate it. Happy New Year to you too.
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Aha!
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Oo. That sounds a great suggestion Kenneth. Thanks for dropping by and entering. Happy New Year.
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Thanks Sharon. Happy New Year to you too. I look forward to catching up with you in person soon xx
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I haven’t read a single one of the books I’ve actually bought in the last two years! I have dozens of books waiting to be read.
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Happy New Year Linda!
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Thank you lovely Robbie – and for all you blog support. I very much appreciate it. Happy New Year!
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I think during your sabbatical you should read Dead Inside by Noelle Holten!
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Ha! Thanks Liz. Happy New Year and see you at the next meeting!
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Oh! Great suggestion. The Blue Bench is languishing on my TBR. I shall have to try to read it in 2019.
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I might just do that Elaine! Happy new year x
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I don’t remember where I first heard about Night of the Living Trekkies, but it was probably on Facebook or maybe another blogger. I vaguely recall it being called a parody. I found a cheap paperback on Amazon and purchased it.
There’s a YouTube video of the book that intrigued me although it gets some things wrong.
I wasn’t expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised. There were some predictable things, but I was also surprised a few times.
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Happy New Year Claire. I think Noelle’s book is DEFINITELY going on the TBR!
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I shall have a look. Thanks!
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You’re wise to know your limits! Wishing you lots of luck and blessings as you start 2019. One book I think everyone should read is “Appointments With Heaven” by Dr. Reggie Anderson.
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Happy New Year!
I think you should read The Museum of extraordinary things by Alice Hoffman on your sabbatical. It is a magical and enchanting read.
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Happy New Year Linda, hope 2019 will be a wonderful year for you! Xx
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Oh! Haven’t heard of that one. Thanks Dianna. A Happy New Year to you too.
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I LOVE Alice Hoffman’s writing. Great suggestion. Happy New Year and thank you!
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Thanks Rae – and for all you wonderful blog support. Here’s to a happy, healthy and successful 2019 for you too.
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It has been an honour to appear on your fabulous blog and I can fully understand that need to take a step back. Now, if you require any assistance with carrying your bags on those trips just let me know lol. Have an amazing 2019 Linda, and enjoy reclaiming your reading and writing time xx
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Happy New Year and good for you in taking this step! Enjoy the year ahead and I think you should read anything you blooming well like – a real luxury for a book Blogger haha x
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Thanks lovely Shelley. I’ve got loads of reviews already written for 2019 and am looking forward to taking the pressure off a bit. Thanks for all your blog support. Have a wonderful, happy, healthy and successful 2019 xx
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I hadn’t realised how many books I want to read had got left behind Karen. Fingers crossed I might get to some of them! Happy New Year to you and I hope 2019 is a good one for you.
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Dear Linda,
Happy New Year! I wish you and your loved ones a joyful and just good-all-round 2019. Smile, travel, write and enjoy time together!
You have been so very supporting towards so many authors, I know one in particular.. 😉 you have held her hand so many times and did her the honor of inviting her over to your blog, showed her that her small voice matters. Thank you!!
Space is but a noun on the blogosphere, but people and words do matter, here and everywhere. Enjoy the thrill of writing some of your very own and the peace of being with your own folk.
Lots of love and see you soon 🙂
xxx
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Oh Pat. You are so lovely. Your comment brought a tear to my eye and a smile to my face. Thanks so much for all your blog support. Have a happy New Year and a wonderful 2019. I’ve just turned the page on a certain calendar and have a scene of Brasov! xx
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Happy New Year Linda. I have really enjoyed reading your blog since I discovered it in 2017. Whatever you do in 2019, enjoy it. I suspect you will continue to be busy! Keep us updated on the progress of your novel.
Claire Baldry
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I do hope a tear of joy… It is the 1st of January after all, let’s be super good to ourselves 😉
Oh, JOY!! Thank you for sharing that particular fact. Brasov is THE place! xxx
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Thanks Claire. I have reviews every day for a week to come so far! Have a happy, healthy and successful 2019. x
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I intend to go and have a look for myself!
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Wishing you a wonderful year ahead and the time to fulfill your dreams. Here’s to more reading time in 2019 xx
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Wishing you a fabulous 2019 Linda, and totally understand why you are taking time away from blogging, it still
Sounds like you have a busy year a head but wishing you all the best 😘😘
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Thanks Jo. I’m looking forward to taking the pressure off a bit. Have a fabulous 2019 xx
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Thanks Lorraine and I hope 2019 is kinder to you. Have a happy and healthy year xx
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Absolutely the right decision for you Linda – enjoy your richly deserved sabbatical, and all those wonderful books. And a Happy New Year! xx
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Happy New Year, Linda and thank you for all your support. Hope you find a balance that works for you.
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Happy New Year to you, Linda.
Such a wise – though difficult – decision. You have given so much of yourself and your time to help other book lovers, it is now time to take good care of yourself. (So sorry to hear about the hands and eyes – nightmare!) Enjoy reading again without stress and have a wonderful 2019 with your family and travelling. Hope Mum gives you a break too! Thank you for all you have done for the world of books and writers and readers. Now go and write your own book. Happy New Year. xxx
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Thanks Anne. I hope life isn’t treating you too badly. Here’s to a happy and healthy 2019 and see you soon. Happy New Year xx
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And just noticed you asked for recommendations. You may already have this but if not, When All Is Said by Anne. Griffen is quietly wonderful. It’s the only 2019 book I’ve read so far and a 5* straight away!
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You’ve had an amazing blogging year and that level of commitment is to be commended. I think it often happens with book blogs that what starts out as a hobby takes over your life and therefore you do have to step back occasionally. Especially as it sounds like you have an amazing trip planned! Will hopefully pop down for the literature festival if I can (my family are in Baston so not far from them.)
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Happy New Year, Linda! Back in 2015, you were one of the first people to review my debut, Someone Else’s Conflict, and I really appreciate it. I hope you enjoy your well-deserved sabbatical and immerse yourself in lots of lovely reading. x
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All the best for 2019 Linda. You have done an amazing amount to support us authors. Now it’s time for you to look after yourself. Happy reading 🙂
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🙂 x
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I always look forward to reading your reviews and knowing they will be the result of books you’ve chosen to read for your own pleasure and at your own pace will make them extra special from now on. I’m certain from what you’ve said that you’ve made the right decision for you and for those closest to you.
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Happy New Year, Linda! I hope 2019 and your sabbatical brings you balance and happiness. I’m quite determined to take things slower myself but January is already looking completely overwhelming.
I’ve been pimping The Murder of Harriet Monckton all over the place for a while now so if you haven’t read that one yet, I’d add it to your list.
Enjoy your reading and travel! xx
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😍
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Completely get it, Linda but oh we will miss you! Have a wonderful sabbatical, lovely lady xx
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Such a wonderful post and amazing blog. Wishing all the best for 2019. I will recommend Around the world in 80 days by Jules Verne it’s one of my personal favourite classic.
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Thanks Jackie. That’s a perennial problem for me. I tend to do things to excess! Happy New Year x
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How lovely Kate, thank you. There may be a certain The Survivors that is one of the books I’m desperate to read! Happy New Year and I hope to catch up with you in person again soon xx
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I LOVED it Joanne. Brilliant book! Got a review here https://lindasbookbag.com/2018/11/03/when-all-is-said-by-anne-griffin/ which was out when you were having a tricky time I think xx
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Oh yes – do come to the festival. Baston is only a couple of miles away. I’d love to see you. Thanks for dropping by and Happy New Year x
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Thanks Alison. Happy New Year to you. You were one of my first blogging reads! Hope you have a fantastic 2019 and that we’ll get to chat in person again before too long x
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And thank YOU Anne. You have been the most brilliant and generous support to the blog. I really appreciate it. Happy New Year x
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Ah yes, must have missed it. Well I was right in thinking you would enjoy it then!
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Thanks so much Cathy – and for all your blog support. Have a brilliant 2019. Happy New Year.
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Congratulations on being self-aware enough that you need to look after yourself first before you can take care of others. All the very best for 2019.
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Oo. I haven’t read it and I certainly should if you’re recommending it. Thanks so much and a Happy New Year Eva x
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Oh – I’m not disappearing altogether! I have half a dozen reviews ready to go already. Just stepping back a bit. Been thinking of you and hope 2019 is kinder than 2018 lovely lady x
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You know, I’ve never read that. Great suggestion. Thanks so much for dropping by and Happy New Year.
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Great minds eh?
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Thanks so much Susan. All the very best to you in 2019 too. I hope it’s happy and healthy for you x
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Wow I knew you posted a lot last year, but didn’t realise how many posts! I hope you have a wonderful sabbatical and that you get to read your own books in your own time. Happy New Year xx
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Hi Linda you will be missed every day but I really understand too. I pulled back from social media and everything for a while. I was reading because I had to rather than when I wanted to. It really is a pressured hobby that we need to learn to say no xxx
Enjoy life my friend xx
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Enjoy your sabbatical and make sure you look after yourself! I look forward to your reviews when you post them!! ❤ xx
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Linda – enjoy your well-earned rest. Burn out seems to be a common ailment among book bloggers, and with your other committments as well it’s no wonder you’re looking to take a break. As one of those who has benefitted hugely from your generosity and dedication, I would like to offer my heartfelt thanks and to wish you all the very best. I hope those batteries of yours get recharged fully. Take care – you’ll be missed, but I’m sure we all understand. x
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I think you’re absolutely right to step back. Doing the same thing myself because sometimes blog tours become too overwhelming – and I don’t do a fraction of the tours you do.
As for reading: go retro. I get a lot of my reading cues from Radio 4: loved the Paul Temple mysteries when they were serialised on radio a little while ago and have started reading the original books by Francis Durbridge.
They’re sometimes a bit cheesy but I’m enjoying the feel of a different time and place.
Happy reading x
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I think we all salute you for the terrific job you have done in promoting authors and their books, Linda. It is absolutely no wonder you are overwhelmed, I certainly can empathise with you. So, have a fabulous (long) break, get back to enjoying reading a book and please get on with finishing your own novel. We will all still be here when you get back. Oh, and I’ve put the dates for the Deepings Festival in my diary so shall look out for you there and come and introduce myself in real life!!
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Thanks Nicki. Happy New Year to you too and for all your blog support. I already have several reviews written and ready to go over the next week!
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Thank you lovely! I’ll still be here, reading, reviewing and blogging but at my own pace! Hope to see you again soon and that 2019 is everything you could wish for. Happy New Year xx
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Thanks Zoe. The first review comes tomorrow! Happy New Year and happy blogging. xx
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Thanks so much for your kind words Tony. I’m not disappearing completely, just stepping back from commitments a bit, I know you understand when life can feel pressured. Have a wonderful 2019 xx
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Happy New Year, Linda! Your decision to take things a bit easier with blogging makes sense, especially now you’ve worked out how many hours you’ve spent on it in the last year. I blog as and when these days, sometimes it’s daily and sometimes I disappear for a few weeks and that works for me. It’s a hobby at the end of the day and is meant to be fun. I’m trying to think which book to recommend you – if you haven’t read The Lion Tamer Who Lost yet then I definitely recommend that one. I also loved Daisy Belle by Caitlyn Davies – it was very inspiring as well as being a fun read. Hope you read some amazing books this year, and I look forward to reading your posts as and when. x
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Wow! I’d love to meet you in person. Tickets go on sale very soon. Thanks so much for all the wonderful support you’ve given my blog and here’s to a successful writing year for you and a happy, healthy
2019 xx
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Thanks Hayley. Louise’s book is awaiting my attention on the TBR! I hope you have a fabulous and especially healthy 2019. I look forward to reading your blog posts as and when they appear xx
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All best wishes for 2019 Linda, enjoy your reading, have a fabulous time on your holidays and do what makes you happy xx
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Thanks Jill and exactly the same sentiment from me to you. Here’s hoping 2019 is happy and healthy for you x
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Hi Linda, I heartily agree with your sentiments. Blogging, reviewing, writing the next novel takes time and effort and, if one isn’t careful, can push what is really important onto the back burner. Hope you have a wonderful 2019 and see you at the West Deeping LIt Fest in May.
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I hope you enjoy your sabbatical, Linda. I shall miss seeing quite so many posts from you though. I think you should read The Binding by Bridget Collins!
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Thanks so much for commenting Lizzie. I’m so looking forward to the festival. See you there and Happy New Year.
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Thanks Nicola – I shall head off and look that one up straight away! Happy New Year x
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Thanks Linda xx
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Madam, Linda. You must read and review my next book immediately (except I haven’t finished it yet!) 😀
Thank you for having me as a guest on your ‘Staying in’ series- it’s been fascinating spying on the other authors featured, as well as trying to keep up with your travels. It’s worn me out just following them, so you’ve definitely earned a bit of ‘me’ time. Enjoy taking it easy for a while, you deserve it. Thanks for all your hard work. x
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I completely get where you’re coming from. I took on too much and seriously regretted it. Glad you’re not disappearing completely – I do enjoy reading your posts! Not really sure what to recommend as we don’t necessarily have the same tastes – so I recommend you read what YOU want! 🙂
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Ha! Thanks Val! Lovely to have hosted you on the blog. Have a brilliant 2019 and see you back here on the blog in the future!
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Now that IS good advice Sheila. I shall do that! Happy New Year x
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Lovely post. Wish you a happy and healthy 2019 – speak766
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Thanks so much for dropping by. Have a happy and healthy 2019!
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I can’t believe how busy you’ve been and can quite understand that it can be overwhelming when you put so much effort in! Enjoy your sabbatical, and read whatever takes your fancy. Best Wishes.
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Thanks so much Annabel. I’ve got some smashing books on my TBR. Tomorrow’s for review is a cracker! Happy New Year and thanks for calling by!
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You’ve done so much for so many, including myself. Thank you so much, Linda and I wish you and your family the very best. Take the time to enjoy … wishing you well, Karl
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Thanks so much Karl. I have several reviews to come in the next few days and am looking forward to reviewing at my own pace for a while. Happy New Year x
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Wow – enjoy your travels! I’m moving house in February, not as exciting but also taking a bit of a break and hoping to get through some of the books others have recommended, my TRB pile is a mountain! Happy new year x
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I hope that move goes well Donna. Happy new year and all the best for 2019 x
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A lovely, a bit sad, but also hopeful, positive, and exciting blog post – exciting to read about your plans for 2019. As to the cataract and eyesight, I’ve had -13/14 up until my cataract operations in October last – what a difference it makes! Hopefully you’ll see in 2019! Thank you for all your support and for your amazing ‘Staying In…’ posts. Always a pleasure reading about the authors. Wishing you a fantastic 2019 xx
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Thanks Caroline. If I say I’m looking forward to cataracts being at the operable stage that sounds a bit bonkers but I think it could make a huge difference to me! Happy New Year to you and thank you for ALL your blog support. I look forward to hosting more of your authors in the future!
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Happy 2019 Linda, I totally appreciate you wanting some time out. Life is very precious and seems to disappear so quickly. I’m enjoying Regency Romances at the moment and if you fancy a little escapism back in to the 1800’s I can highly recommend Virginia Heath The King’s Elite series.
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Oh, interesting choicce Adele. Thanks so much. Happy New Year to you x
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I love following your reviews- but hope you really enjoy your sabbatical and claiming back your love of reading. Sounds like a brilliant trip that you have planned.
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Thanks so much. I shall be reviewing as much as I can, just not accepting tours and posts I feel under pressure to get out. Thanks for all your support and Happy New Year!
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I absolutely ‘get’ what you are saying here. I had to give up blogging a few years ago because like you, my hobby had turned into a full time effort and was making me worn out. I can’t express how much I’ve appreciated all the support and efforts you’ve made on my behalf and I can’t wait to hear how your adventures go this year. You deserve this time for yourself. Enjoy 2019, Linda.
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Thanks so much Carol. I have got a place on the RNA new writers scheme so you never know… Have a brilliant 2019 lovely lady x
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I wish you all the best and think everyone needs to take some time out every now and then. It is so time consuming and does take over everything when you have a passion for it. All the best.
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Wise decision, life’s too short to be ‘lived’ and have blogging take over your life. Enjoy your time off! As for reading, well The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle was my fav of 2018 and I look forward to the new book of Riley Sager this year! Happy New Year 😘
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Thanks so much and all the very best for your lovely blog in 2019 x
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Thanks Inge. I’ve had my eye on The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle for a while! Happy New Year to You too x
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Thank you. I’m having a bit of a rest myself.
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Even though I will miss you, I so understand your predicament. Your number of blog posts in 2018 is just unbelievable! It’s not sustainable to keep on going at that rate, not with all the other things going on in your life. I wish you peace, contentment, good health and time to focus on our own work. [Matches my own resolution for 2019 to return to my own writing.} Here’s to seeing something from each of us soon!
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Enjoy it!
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Oh yes! Good luck with your writing Marina. I hope 2019 brings you success, good health and happiness.
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Have a wonderful new year Linda xx
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Thanks Yvonne and the same to you xx
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My very best wishes for the year ahead and take good care of yourself ☺ We’ll still be here when you come back xx
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Thank you! I am not disappearing, just cutting back a bit. Happy New Year x
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What a year you’ve had Linda and what a support to all those writers, I wondered where you got the energy and admire your dedication and understand your decision to try and reduce the obligation somewhat and get back to the enjoyment. I’m sure that will be difficult too as you’ve created a passionate habit and developed a strong work ethic around it. Good that you have some quality travel time built in. All the best for 2019, happy reading, enjoy the newfound freedom.
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Thanks so much Claire. I’m looking forward to reading and reviewing at my own pace. Have a wonderful 2019.
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I was one the authors fortunate enough to ‘stay in’ with you Linda, and to have the support of your blog in many other posts. I’d just like to say a big thank you, and an even bigger … have a fabulous, well deserved break from it all. Enjoy your holidays, your me time, all that reading. I hope 2019 is kind and generous to you xx
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Thanks so much Kathryn. I loved hosting you here and I hope you’ll come back again in the future. I’m thoroughly enjoying the lack of blogging pressure so far! Have a wonderful 2019 and keep writing!
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You’re an inspiring person Linda, and all the best with these changes – and thanks for all your past support. And please don’t let that novel languish!!
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That’s so kind of you Jennie. Thank you. Have a brilliant 2019 x
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Enjoy your travels and I hope you get lots of well-deserved time to read. I’m going to explore more non-fiction in 2019 and if you like a bit of history I suggest you try Lucy Worsley’s recently published book about Queen Victoria.
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Oo. Great suggestion Penny. Thanks. I have her TV programme about the wedding recorded to watch… Have a great 2019 and thanks for calling by.
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Thank you for all you’ve done for me and other authors! You certainly deserve to take more time for yourself. All the best for 2019 and safe travels!
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Thanks Debra and I wish you a happy, healthy and successful 2019!
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When you add up all those hours you spend on the blog I’m not surprised you feel like taking a breather. Hope you enjoy your return to reading for pleasure. My recommendation of what to read is a novel by a Malaysian author Tash Aw “Five Star Billionaire
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That sounds a really interesting suggestion. Thanks!
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I’ve had this post sitting waiting in my inbox for a while as I don’t always get to sit down and devour blog posts as often as I’d like. Linda you’ve been epic, amazing and all in between and I think you’ll find it amazing to get to go at your own pace and as you say get to read, write and travel. Best if luck on it all and congrats on all you’ve achieved and thanks again for being such a help X
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Oh what a lovely comment Berni. Much appreciated! Good luck with your writing too xx
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Quite right, too, Linda. It’s always important to take some time out for yourself. You will be missed, though I hope we’ll still bump into each other at occasional events in the real world (I have made a note of the literary festival and will aim to get there this time!).
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Thanks Graeme. I’m not disappearing altogether but not taking on so much. Doing things at my own pace is far less stressful. Hope to see you again soon – possibly at the festival!
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I didn’t mean you’d be missed altogether, but you have become a constant presence for a lot of us, and any diminution will be noticed. Look forward to seeing you!
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Mwah! Thank you x
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Thanks so much for all the reviews in 2018, Linda. I discovered lots of new to me authors on your blog. And I really enjoyed being part of your ‘Staying in…’ series and reading the posts by other authors. Wishing you a fabulous time on your travels in 2019, happy reading and all the very best with your writing! xxx
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Thanks so much. I hope you find some good books from this year’s reviews too. Thank you so much for being on the blog. I hope you’ll feature again in the future x
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You do an amazing job, Linda and you deserve a break. Take care and enjoy some r and r. Best wishes for a more restful 2019
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That’s very kind of you Rob! I hope you have a wonderful 2019 x
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Sounds like you’ll be having a fabulous 6 months of travelling! Enjoy and post photos etc.
I understand how you feel. Blogging is rewarding, but intense and time consuming.
I really look forward to your reviews, and you are so kind and supportive to authors who are not traditionally published, as well as traditionally published ones. You are needed in the book blogging world! 💖😍
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That’s so lovely of you Lucy. Thank you. Your kind words are much appreciated xx
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I forgot to mention all the fabulous authors I’ve ‘met’ and great novels I’ve read, thanks to your recommendations!
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Hurrah! It’s always a bit nerve wracking as what I love another reader may not…
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Blogging is addictive and authors so appreciative but it takes over. You convey the pressures of blogging so well and with sensitivity. You must consider your own wellbeing. We will all be here when you return. Perhaps you need a team of bloggers to support.
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Thanks so much Jessie. I’m happy doing my own thing and have learnt to say no this year (though I seem somehow to have promised reviews of another 38 books as of today!)
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