It was June 3, 2016 when I first introduced the concept of New Release Mondays as my small way of helping to promote other authors. My first guest was Rosemary McCracken and her recent release, Raven Lake. Since that time there have been 144 posts, with a multitude of authors representing mystery, suspense, thriller, anthologies, and occasionally, romance. While it’s been an incredible privilege to share their stories, after careful consideration, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time to take a new direction, and that means the end of New Release Mondays, at least in its current incarnation.
There are a few reasons for this. Authors and readers tell me that they are “blogged out,” and I’ll admit to feeling that way myself. There are just too many to follow with any regularity. But the primary reason is that I’m feeling increasingly overwhelmed since taking on the role of Vice Chair, Crime Writers of Canada while trying to work on two series, a multi-author anthology, and a standalone suspense. In short, something had to give, and that became abundantly clear as I spent the better part of October at our camp on Lake Superior, winding down and reflecting on the past year. It honestly felt like the first time I didn’t face some deadline or another in months. (Remember that in July 2019, while “relaxing,” I was sent the news about the closure of Barking Rain Press, and spent much of my vacation time getting my books ready for sale under the Superior Shores Press umbrella.)
What’s the future for this blog? To be honest, I’m not sure, beyond knowing that I’ll be taking a much-needed hiatus before returning in the new year. Blog aside, I will still be updating the home page and this website with events, recipes, and Facts in Fiction as time permits, along with the occasional book review if I really love something, so please check in every now and again. Last, but not least, I’ll also be continuing to produce News, Views & Clues, my mostly-monthly (but sometimes bi-monthly) newsletter. You can find past examples by clicking on the links below:
If you’d like to be reminded of what I’m up to going forward (including book reviews, the occasional recipe, sales promotions and more), please sign up for News, Views & Clues. [Remember you can unsubscribe at any time.]Â
Thanks ever so much for following my journey. The best is yet to come.
Judy, this has been an absolutely wonderful thing that you’ve done connecting writers and readers, and spotlighting so many authors. I always wondered how in heaven’s name you managed it!! It seems to make sense to step back right now. You are so incredibly busy. I’d like to thank you for everything that you’ve done for us. I wish you all the best in your future and current endeavors!! You go, Sis!!
And Merry Christmas!!
Thanks Carol! May our paths cross again…and Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Hi Judy: Thanks for the support and BRP insights over the past couple of years. I wish you all the best with your new press and adventures, and will keep in touch via News, Views and Clues. Cheers–and happy holidays,
Laurel Peterson
Thanks for keeping in touch, Laurel, and let us hope that BRP comes through on the last set of promises. We’ll see…I remain guardedly optimistic.
Hi Judy, Thanks for all your wonderful efforts on our behalf. Wishing you the happiest of holidays and all the best in 2020. 🙂
Thanks Joanne, I do love your blog and will continue to follow it. LOVE the movie reviews!
Thank you, Judy, for helping authors get the word out about their books! I appreciate the opportunity you offered me with my debut mystery, “Death in Disguise”. Your support of the writing community is amazing! I wish you much success with your many endeavors!
Thanks so much Karen, I hope our paths cross again.
Hi Judy. I’ve enjoyed learning about new-to-me authors through your posts, and it has been encouraging to see a strong example of writers supporting each other. Thanks for your many posts, and I look forward to hearing more about your writing life in the future.
Thank you for following my posts, Susan. That’s heartwarming!
Thanks so much for three years of New Release Mondays. You deserve a break! Have a great holiday, Judy.
Thanks Ellen!
Yes, your schedule is heavy, and I know that you always want to give your best to whatever you do. This has been a wonderful outlet for many authors and their books. However, pulling back right now does make sense for you.
Best in all of your other writing!
Happy Holidays!
Pam
Thanks Pam, it’s been a lot of fun, but it’s starting to seem like work. And I seem to have created plenty of that for myself!
Hi Judy,
A new year coming up and a new decade means changes for a lot of us. You have a lot on your plate and you’re wise to take a step back and see what works for you and what needs to be let go.
I’ve signed up for the News, Views & Clues and follow you on Social Media.
Enjoy the holiday season. All the best
Rose
Thank you, Rose, for your ongoing support and encouragement. Happy holidays to you and yours.