Month in Review - May 2026

Hello, June! I can hardly believe that May has already come and gone. Summer is finally here, and with it comes sunshine, gardening projects, and all the outdoor fun that this time of year brings. But before I get completely sidetracked by flowers, planting, and everything else on my ever-growing to-do list, it’s time to take one last look back at the past month. So, without further ado, here are the most popular blog posts of May 2026, chosen by you, the readers:

1. Combatting Social Media Marketing Burnout: Effective Ways to Revitalize Your Strategy

As authors, we’re often told that writing the book is only half the job. The other half? Social media. Promoting our work demands constant creativity, quick responses, and steady engagement — all while we’re trying to draft chapters, meet deadlines, and protect our creative energy. That relentless pace can easily lead to burnout, a state of physical and emotional exhaustion that quietly drains both motivation and productivity.

2. When is the right time to STOP editing your manuscript?

Editing a manuscript can feel like an endless task. Writers often struggle to decide when their work is polished enough to move forward. Spending too much time editing can drain energy and stall progress, while stopping too soon might leave errors or weak spots in the text. Finding the right balance is key to producing a strong manuscript without burning out.

3. Keeping Your Pup Cool and Safe: Simple Summer Tips You Didn’t Know You Needed

Summer weather has arrived, and we look forward to fill our days with outdoor fun which often includes our furry friends. However, high temperatures can pose risks to dogs, making extra care essential. Here are practical summer safety tips you might not have realized could help keep your pup safe and cool!

4. The Power of Storytelling: Why I Embrace the Past in my Writing

Stories about the past often carry more weight than we realize. They shape our understanding of who we are and where we come from. I keep telling stories set in the past because they connect us to experiences, lessons, and emotions that remain relevant today. These stories are not just memories; they are bridges that link generations, inspire growth, and offer clarity in uncertain times.

5. A Story Worth Telling: Sarah Banne Belzoni and the Heart of The Exploress and the Pillars of Eternity

She was never meant to be remembered. And yet, she refused to be forgotten. As I continue to reflect on The Exploress and the Pillars of Eternity being named a 2026 Firebird Book Award winner in Women’s Fiction, I find myself returning to the heart of the story—not the award itself, but the woman who inspired it: Sarah Banne Belzoni.

by A. Piper Burgi

Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, and Goodreads