Reading Record 2024

By Shirl D

It Was Not a Prolific Reading Year

I read half the number of novels I’d intended due to (excuses):

ill-health – not always on top form, I strive to keep productive but sometimes have to give in. Even reading went by the board at times in the past 12 months.
writing – no apology offered here because I rewrote my novel which was a massive undertaking given the above point. I wrote, rewrote, edited, cogitated upon, 82,000 words. Rather like reading a novel several times over.
time management – I rediscovered the benefits of time spent away from productive activities. That meant developing friendships, seeing family, valuing free time.

So What Did I Read?

I use audiobook images for my Instagram reviews as they best suit the grid format. Many of the following titles have been reviewed on my grid and/or in my stories.

a collection of the novels read by Shirl Davis in 2024 — The Dilemma by B A Paris
The Interview by C M Ewan
The Baker’s Secret by Lelita Baldock
The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman (Thursday Murder Club)
The Love of my Life by Rosie Walsh

My 10-Word Book Reviews

For more information about my approach to reviewing see this page.

The Future of Book Reviews

This was my first love when I became a freelance writer back in 2000, having retired from teaching. There’s more about that personal history here.

Reviewing can be a time-consuming activity so I am going to change my ways. Expect more quick mentions on social media and less formal written posts.

Why the Change?

I now write novels! Yes, so far unpublished but I need to allow time for the real love of my life. Plus I want to read for pleasure. I will still add Amazon reviews, still pop up on Instagram with opinions and recommendations but less formally.

Anyone who has been following this website will have noticed the sorry lack of new posts in 2024. Let’s make 2025 they year when I will:

write more here
scroll less elsewhere
read loads, write oodles
(and get published)

Whilst I do not believe in New Year’s Resolutions, I do believe in the 3 Cs:

Creativity
Commitment
Content

Here’s to a fabulous 2025 in the world of books, reading, and writing.

Tagsauthors book reviews books Instagram Later Writer reading reviewing rewriting

About the author

Shirl D

As a retired teacher, I am now a writer later in life, hoping to reach others with the same passion for stories and non-fiction, short or long. I've completed my novel (currently unrepresented). Later Writers can really enjoy themselves - join in and follow the fun. Pick up ideas and think through your own writing plans.