Five Years? Where Have They Gone?

Yes indeed, five years ago today I posted the first entry in this blog. I still can't believe it has been that long. It feels like yesterday... until I start thinking of all the people I've met, books I read and events I've attended.

People's first question to me is always, "did you have any idea you'd end up where you are?" Well, I kind of think I'm in the same place, only with more fellow readers around to talk to! But no, I had no idea I would meet some of my very best friends in this world or meet some of the people I admire most. Book lovers are an incredible group and crime fiction book lovers are...well, they're my people and I'm humbled and blessed that they all let me hang around and talk about the books with them.

More than anything, though, I'm humbled and blessed that every person who reads my blog takes time from their busy lives to do so. And those who leave comments and send me emails, you give me a gift each time. Thank you for your time and friendship. Thank you to all the authors, audiobook narrators, other bloggers, booksellers, publicists, etc. who have contributed when I've come calling in their inboxes: "would you like to...?" It would be a boring blog if I did it all solo.

So, in honor of this anniversary...or blogiversay I want to give away a gift. I have a fun (I hope) little readers prize pack put together. It includes a small selection of books, some bookmarks, and a Jen's Book Thoughts coffee mug. Not pictured below, but will also be included is: some yummy stuff to drink in your mug (coffee, tea, hot chocolate) and some Buckeyes. For those who may not know what I'm talking about, no, I will not be filling your box with a nut from a tree. Well known in Ohio, but not so much outside of Ohio, is the Buckeye candy: a ball of peanut butter dipped in chocolate -- it looks like a Buckeye. I'll add these additional items just before sending so that they're fresh.

Since I have readers all over the place, this contest will be open to any and all. And I'll leave it open through the end of January. Just fill out the form below to be entered.

Then, if you would care to leave a comment on today's post, I'd love to know if you discovered a book or author because of something we did here on the blog. It doesn't need to be from a review...if you picked up someone's book because of an interview, a memoir, a guest post...whatever.

And thank you again for befriending me and sharing a love of reading. Let's go for another year, shall we?