Ah, the beginning of another new year – the time when reviewers will be telling you their plans for the year ahead and the many different challenges they’re planning to take on. This post will be a little different – and, while I’ve shared my thoughts with a few close friends, it might come as a bit of a surprise to many.
After a great deal of thought, I’ve decided to give up blogging at the end of January, and share rather shorter (but no less considered) reviews on Goodreads and Amazon only. I do also plan to keep my Being Anne Facebook page running, perhaps with a change of name, continuing to use it as a platform to share my love of reading.
Being Anne has been my passion now for the last thirteen years – approaching 2500 posts, by far the majority of them reviews of books I’ve loved. It’s seen me through so many life changes and difficult times – in fact, at times, the need to produce the next post by a promised date has been the main thing keeping me going. When I retired back in 2014, it rather took the place of work – and I can still remember my sense of achievement when I single-handedly moved it across from Blogger to WordPress, where I could achieve the more professional look I’d wanted.
But every post takes such a lot of time and effort to produce – the way the posts look on the page is important to me, and you might have noticed I’m a bit of a perfectionist! And with the passing years – you’ll know I’ve recently celebrated my 70th birthday – I really feel I need more time for myself, some much needed “me time” to do some of the other things I enjoy (and maybe try a few new things I’ve yet to discover). I’ll never lose my passion for reading though, and I’ll always write reviews – in fact, that’s something I always did long before the blog began.
Making the decision has lifted a weight I’ve been feeling for some time – while my enthusiasm for the books has remained undimmed, I’ve been finding it increasingly difficult to make myself sit down at the keyboard to find the words I need to do every book justice. And, although I know the authors have always been delighted with the reviews I write – and thank you to all of you for cheering me on – the marked decline in engagement has been increasingly dispiriting. A review posted on a weekend can struggle to hit 50 views – longer posts that can take me two days to pull together often fail to rise above 150 views.
With the advent of TikTok and Instagram, I’m getting the feeling that people no longer want to read the kind of reviews I write – and I’m far too old and set in my ways to try and change things. I also firmly feel that the best way of showing appreciation of an author’s words is to express it in words of my own – so I think the time is right to bow out, and leave the stage to others.
I have five blog tour posts scheduled for January, and a number of promised posts and reviews of new releases – but at the end of the month, I’ll say my many thank yous and goodbyes. All the subscriptions that keep the blog running behind the scenes expire in March, and that’s when it’ll finally disappear: I would like to reassure author friends though that my many reviews will not be lost for ever, as I’ve always shared them on both Amazon and Goodreads, where they can always be found.
And, of course, I have no plans to disappear from my current social media channels – and if there are any book related parties or events where I’ll still be welcome, I’ll look forward to seeing you there!
With love and best wishes, Anne xxx
Sorry to read this, but totally understand … I like so many others, owe you so much, you are so kind and and gave me soooo much advice, I would never have managed without you 🌷🌷thank you for being Anne, the wonderful ❤️
Many thanks Celia xx
Glad for you and sad for me, Anne! You’ve been a stalwart reader of my books from my first, and have created a wonderful reviewer network that your reviews have been shared by many. But I can completely understand and respect your wish to spend your time in other ways and can only thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and your friendship. I’m glad I’ll still see you on social media and maybe at the occasional publishing gathering. xx
Thank you Sue – that network of support (including yours!) has been one of the many wonderful things about the last thirteen years. And, other than closing the blog, I’ll still be very much around xx
Sorry to read this Anne but fully understand the reasons why
Thanks Steph xx
Dear Anne, Thank you so much for sharing your decision with us. You have been so supportive and a realm champion of so many writers, myself included. Your reviews are extraordinary, so much thought , time and understanding in each one. Thank you for every single word you have written about my books, it has helped me and so many readers. I have often quoted from your reviews for many months after they have been posted as you have this remarkable skill in expressing something about the story in a unique way. In a world of many voices , yours is one of the few blogs I read every day. Having said all that I quite understand your need to step back and have some time to yourself. You really deserve this and I wish you every happiness and good health in the years to come.. Thank you so much Anne for all your hard work and enjoy a very well deserved retirement from blogging xxxx
Your comment’s just made me a bit teary, Mary! Thank you so much for your support over the years – and your lovely books will most certainly still be on my reading list xx
Even though I knew it was coming, I’m still saddened that you’ve reached this decision. I completely understand your reasoning and must admit that I have had similar thoughts. Your kindness and support through my blogging journey has been truly appreciated and I will miss seeing your posts. That said, you’ve more than earned your blogging retirement and I wish you nothing but rest and relaxation. I do hope to catch up with you at future events.
I’d been agonising about it for rather a long time, and do feel lighter for having made the decision. And I’ll still be at every party and event I can manage – see you there! xx
Well I’ve liked the post but I don’t really ‘like’ it if you know what I mean. I’m sorry to hear this Anne but totally understand. I think you’re right about Instagram and TikTok. I don’t do the latter at all and only rarely post more than a book or sunset photo on Instagram. I do hope we’ll still bump into each other from time to time xx
Thank you Joanne xx
An understandable decision, Anne, best of luck with all your new ventures.
Thanks Rosie, and for your support over the years xx
Awe, totally understand. I keep thinking of giving up my blog especially every time it comes up for renewal as everyone seems to be using Instagram and TikTok these days. As long as you are still reading and enjoying, that is the main thing. x
The timing felt right Sarah – and I’ll never stop reading and enjoying, or sharing reviews in some way! x
Absolutely understandable decision. Thank you so much for all your support over the years. Keep in touch 🩷
Many thanks Jenni! xx
Anne, yours was one of the first blogs I followed when I started my own. I’ve always enjoyed reading your reviews – and this from someone who isn’t a reader of romantic fiction! You’ve explained with your customary thoughtful eloquence why you’ve reached the decision you have and, although I’m sorry to see another departure from the book blogging community, I’m glad you’ll be staying around on social media.
I always really enjoy your reviews too Cathy – although our preferred reading rarely coincides! Thank you for your lovely words, and I certainly don’t plan to disappear from the bookish world we love x
Anne, thank you for everything you’ve done in the last few years, for the love you’ve shown to the books and the wonderful reviews. I wish you joy of reading without pressure and hope you find wonderful new things to do in this, your second retirement. You are, always will be, a star to every author who has had the pleasure to meet you or receive a review from you. x
Thank you for your lovely comments Liz – and, although it hasn’t been an easy decision, I’m rather looking forward to that second retirement! x
Thank you so much for all your reviews over the years, Anne. You’ve introduced me to so many great reads I wouldn’t otherwise have found – plus left some wonderful reviews for my own books that I still treasure. I completely understand your decision. Things have changed so much online in the time we both started blogging. I wish you much happy and stress-free reading and hope to keep in touch on social media, and to see you in person at bookish events in the north. Wishing you all the very best for 2026 xx
Thank you Helena – and yes, I’ll still be very much around! xx
Thank you so much for everything you’ve done to support me and so many other authors. All the best for this next phase in your life. Enjoy!
Thank you Anne! x
As someone who has been blogging for more than 20 years, I understand your decision. It is easy to become dispirited by the lack of engagement. I hope that you continue to enjoy reading and books in whatever form that takes in the future!
Many thanks Marg!
Up until I saw this post I was still hopeful you might change your mind, even though you had assured me you wouldn’t. Thank you so much for being such a wonderful supporter of my blog tours for 8 years, and of being a friend for I believe even longer. Hope to still see you around at bookish events, as I can’t imagine a time when you would no longer be welcomed with open arms at them. All the best for the future and Happy New Year.
Many thanks Rachel – it’s been such a pleasure working with you over the years, and I most certainly won’t be disappearing altogether!
I absolutely get this Anne, as we discussed. Your reviews have helped so many and I know they will continue to do so on other platforms. I wish you every happiness in the freedom to read and enjoy what you want when you want. xx
Although it’s been a difficult decision, I’m rather looking forward to the freedom! Thanks for everything, Linda xx
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Anne, I know it will have been a difficult decision for you, but you deserve ‘me time’ now. You have connected many readers and writers with your wonderful reviews, and will continue to have presence in the bookish world. You are moving on to a new stage in your life and that is positive and exciting. I look forward to reading about your new adventures on social media and hope to meet up with you in Yorkshire this year.
Jessie xxx
Thanks Jessie! xx
I’m a little sad to see the end of your blog as you starting yours spurred me on to get mine going all those years ago. I do understand your reasons though and I’m having similar thoughts about mine as I’m struggling with my reviewing/blogging mojo atm. I shall still read and enjoy your reviews wherever they are and wish you lots of happy reading ahead x
Many thanks Karen xx
Sorry to hear this Anne but it’s been a pleasure to follow your blog and thank you for your support for my posts. Happy ‘retirement’!
And thank you Nicola – and I’ll still be reading your lovely posts, and sharing when I can! x
Hi Anne, Like many others I am sad to hear you’re retiring from the blogging world but I wish you all the best for your future plans. I’m sure travel will be high on your list and I look forward to following your new adventures. I’ve so appreciated your help and support of my books over the years and I’ve been warmed by your lovely reviews. Take care and have fun! xx
Thank you Anne! xx
Hi Anne,
I honestly know where you’re coming from. I did the same about 3 years ago, and while I was never as prolific as you, the relief was like a weight being lifted. Now I just read without any pressure. I always have left reviews on Amazon and Goodreads too, and I still do the odd Instagram or Twitter shout out but no more blogging. In fact this is the first time in ages I’ve been on my WordPress. Enjoy your freedom and reading, Steph xx
And lovely to hear from you Steph. The timing just felt right – and the idea of being free is rather exciting! xx
Ah, Anne! I’ve have never forgotten – and never will – your support and enthusiasm for the first in my Cornwall series, back when it was self published. Your reviews have always been so well crafted and informative and you will be sadly missed.
Having said that, I’m also so happy for you to pursue new interests and indulge more in those you already love. It’s wonderful to hear this decision has lifted a weight from you.
Be happy, be well and all the best for your reading future and writing shorter reviews!
Thank you for your lovely message Cass – and you know how much I loved that book (in fact, it’s one of my favourite reviews too!) xx
Anne it’s been some adventure but you know sometimes we have to just be brave and make the call. I think there are many of us in a similar boat as the whole book blogging/promo landscape has changed. Congratulations on all your fabulous achievements over the years and, as a fellow blogger, thank you for all your support. You’ll have so much more free time and I have no doubt a huge weight has shifted. Look after yourself and I’m sure we’ll cross paths on some platform or other xx
I think the timing’s right Mairead – I’m looking forward to freeing up some time, and living a little! And worry not, I’ll still be very much around… xx
From an author’s point of view I am very sad to read this, Anne. You have championed my books when very few reviewers were prepared to give indie authors the time of day. But the book world has moved on and you;ve earned your retirement. Hang up your spurs and take a step back. You are always welcome at the Belmont Belles and I hope to see yu at the next York Tea. Much love and grateful thanks – Lizzie xxx
It’s sad, but you’re right – the book world has changed, and I think it’s time for me to call it a day. I will continue to read, review, and champion indie authors – if perhaps not quite as visibly as before – because it’s one of the achievements I’m most proud of. And if I don’t see you before, I’ll see you at the York Tea! xxx
Sorry to hear this Anne but I completely understand where you are coming from. My blog turns ten this year so would like to meet that milestone but after that, I really don’t know if it is worth continuing in the current format. Tough decision but you will have so much time to do what you love gained back.
Anne – you have been amazing as the number of comments and responses to your post reveals. It has been a pleasure to read about your adventures and I hope you have many more. I feel very grateful to you for reviewing my books in the past, you were always so enthusiastic which encouraged me no end. Thank you! Cx
I’ve already commented on this somewhere, Anne, but now I’ve had me tea (as we say in Yorkshire) I wanted to add a few more words. I remember your inviting me to some Christmas lunch I think it was in Angelicas or Craftwork in Leeds and, being a new writer feeling very nervous with all you important bloggers! But you made me very welcome! Your reviews for all my books have been nothing but lovely. Beautifully written: I once said to you – you should write a book – you clearly put much thought into every review. Thank you for your friendship and encouragement. You’ll be missed on the blogger platform but hopefully will still see you around!! Keep in touch. And go on more cruises!! Julie xxxxxx
I certainly won’t be disappearing – and writing might just be something I’d rather like to try! And there will most definitely be a lot more cruises… xxx
Your lovely blog will be missed, but I’m sure everyone will understand your decision. I haven’t posted on my blog for ages – I don’t think non-bloggers understand just how long it takes to put a single post together!
Thank you so much for all your support 🙂 xx
You’re right Claire – and I’m just looking forward to enjoying the books without the time pressures! xx
Completely understandable Anne. I can only thank you from the bottom of my heart for being so supportive from the very beginning of my writing years – it means a great deal that you have enjoyed my books and I wish you all the very best, with my love and thanks. Caroline xx
Hety Caroline, I’ll still be reading books from authors I enjoy – yourself included, of course – and reviewing them, albeit a touch less formally! Sending love xxx
Hi Anne
I just wanted to say thank you for all of the reviews you’ve done for me and other authors across the years. You have been amazing. And I’ve always loved reading your reviews.
It’s high time you had some time for yourself and best wishes for some Anne time.
Sending love
Della xx
Thank you Della – sending love xx
It’s a sad day but totally understandable. You need to do what’s right for you xx
All best wishes for the future, Anne. I can understand your decision.
Thank you so much for your reviews over the years Anne. I could always tell how much work went into them and I wish I could read reviews like yours in a magazine or newspaper somewhere. The book community will be poorer for your ‘retirement’ from reviewing, but I really wish you all the best with your new endeavours and I commiserate about the lack of engagement. It’s such a shame these wonderful quality things aren’t getting the attention they deserve. love Leonie xx
Thank you Leonie – sending love xx
Nearly 2500 posts? Wow! That is epic, Anne. You more than deserve to hang up your blogging apron and take a step back to enjoy reading what you what without a schedule and just embrace yourself in the love of reading. It’s so kind of you to continue with the reviews on Goodreads and Amazon.
Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and so many other authors in championing their writing. I’ve always loved reading your reviews of my books, those written by my friends, and those written by authors I don’t know as you write in such an engaging way while always taking care to avoid spoilers – so important!
Wishing you a fabulous, relaxing 2026 and I hope our paths cross at an event again this year xx
Thank you Jessica – your books will still be high on my “must read” list, and I’ll look forward to seeing you again at a future event! xx
Anne, you have been a terrific support to many authors – even me, and I know I don’t write your kind of stuff! Thank you for that support, and I hope we’ll get to meet up again at times in the future.
Thanks Graeme – and yes, I hope our paths will cross again at an event in the not-too-distant future! x