Biggest Failures of 2024 For The Channel & Myself

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

A BookTuber is never late, nor is he early; he reads precisely when he needs to. Or, when he can find the time! It seems to me your successes far outweigh your failures, Mike, but it's not a bad thing to focus on things to improve. All the best for more success in 2025!

[@madLphnt]

Good form sir...well played.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks for being our rock, amigo.

[@PhilipChaseTheBestofFantasy]

@@mikesbookreviews Always.

[@unlimitedreads]

Great Gandalf quote, Philip :)

[@B.LEE.DbrianleedurfeeREVIEWS]

2024 sucked for me too. Spent 4 months of the year in the ICU near death. You're an inspiration, bro, keep it up. OH AND My camera SUCKS!!!

[@unlimitedreads]

It's been so good to see you up and about Brian, talk about kicking that in the arse!

[@libraryofaviking]

This was a very honest video. Thank you, Mike, for being so real. I fully agree with your final thoughts that being a content creator is very up and down and it takes a bigger toll on mental health than a lot of people realise. Getting mean comments or getting rejections (unfortunately) stays with you much longer than positive comments do. I hope 2025 treats you better. Best wishes, Mike!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks, amigo. It does suck how 1 setback seems to outweigh 15 successes.

[@jc6312]

Imagine being a writer.

[@Talking_Story]

Brother a tough 1 for me to watch. I so hate to see someone who brings me so much joy through the year struggle. I have some close to me that battle depression as well so I know how that is a tough and never ending battle. Please know you bring so many of us inspiration and that joy of reading you talk about and you do it even while you struggle speaks tons about your character my friend.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Appreciate you.

[@Talking_Story]

@ right back at you brother.

[@Aicfan20]

You’re probably the booktuber that literally got me into reading more in general and giving me motivation to. Don’t let the negatives bring ya down Mike you still have plenty of support

[@mikesbookreviews]

Gracias!

[@MrBurtonfan]

As you are pretty much the person that got me obsessed with King, nothing but love here, man. Best of luck in 2025

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks!

[@picklenator9076]

I never really comment but this video hurt to watch and I wanted to say something to try and help. I want to let you know that you changed my life for the better. If it wasn’t for your videos I don’t think I ever would have gotten into reading and being able to read and talk to my dad about books. I just graduated college last week with a statistics degree so I understand how hard it is to ignore analytics and goals. You’re an inspiration and I’m forever grateful for you

[@scotth1042]

Dude you rock! You're my favorite Book Tuber - hands down! Keep doing your thing and we'll be there. Thanks for this video!

[@alynam82]

@@scotth1042 💯

[@PetrikLeo]

Hey Mike, thanks for the honest video. Believe me. You're not the only one feeling this way. 2024, for the channel, is the lowest one for me. But hey, just like life, it's all up and down. We're not robots. We pour emotions into the books we're talking about. When we get down, our creativity stumbles. It's only accurate there is a year where we don't win. While I succeed at many things, I FAILED all my goals for the channel this year. What will happen next year? We'll see. It would've been great to meet you too!

[@joycerollins2582]

Mike you are being waaaaayyy too hard on yourself!!!!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Yeah, 2024 was a whole thing. 2025 can only be better!

[@laurenasman1955]

I found your channel this year and you quickly became one of my favorites! Thanks for everything you do! I also suffered personally in 2024 so here’s to a better 2025 🎉🎉🎉

[@MetalGildarts]

Love the candidness. Been here since 2019 and I have no plans of leaving anytime soon.

[@flemingstephen16]

I did not even come close to my reading goals for this year. It’s bad lol I’m gonna have to start using a system of some kind, for motivation. Here’s to 2025 being an even better reading year for ya! I also greatly respect the honesty about depression. I’m sorry you’ve dealt with those things recently. Praying for you and sending the vibes your way. I hope 2025 looks much better for you. I’ve personally, for the first time in my life, dealt with depression. I’m 31 now. I’ve, on a personal level, gone through some really crappy life stuff recently. It’s been a very rough season. However, your videos (along with a few other booktubers) have helped immensely. I’m not BS-ing you on that. Listening to the videos and livestreams have been encouraging in reading and good times. I thank you for that. I love podcasts, so I enjoy the livestream discussions a lot. I’ve followed for a couple or so years now, don’t miss a video. You tell it like it is. I got a lot of respect for that. I make sure I go out of my way to check your channel for the updates. Screw the algorithm.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Always happy to help out. Thanks for the kind words!

[@gryftkin]

You were the first "booktuber" I subscribed to. You're stuck with me ;) Here's to a better '25

[@mikesbookreviews]

Cheers

[@DutchGreyBeard]

Courageous video, Mike! Kudo's for your honesty. I hardly ever use this comment section, but this video prompted me to tell you I am a loyal watcher of your channel and no matter what mood you're in, you're genuine and that matters most. I wish you upward trends for the coming year!

[@mikesbookreviews]

I really appreciate it!

[@rachelapalmieri]

Regardless of your letdowns on yourself in 2024, I just want to say I am so glad I found your channel this year!! You’ve opened my eyes up to so many books & I fully enjoy watching your content. I am a very small beauty content creator and your hard work is truly inspiring for me & my channel! Keep going!

[@RLX5201]

Huge respect for being open and honest Mike, I personally don’t see how any of the mistakes you list are anything bad or anything that is an excuse for anyone to say nasty things to you. I’ve greatly enjoyed your channel and discord all year and look forward to continuing! I hope you and your family have an amazing Christmas and happy new year.

[@Aldrad215]

Few people in today's society own up to their mistakes and failures. Takes a big person to admit that, outloud, to everyone. Cheers and kudos. I've stuck around through it all, and will continue to do so.

[@andrewjoseph37]

Mike, we love your content man. You have helped me so much along my reading/writing journey, especially my King multiverse endeavors. Depression is quite the beast but know you’ve got a huge support system behind ya. “Drive away and try to keep smiling. Get a little rock and roll on the radio and go toward all the life there is with all the courage you can find and all the belief you can muster. Be true, be brave, stand. All the rest is darkness.” -It 💜

[@Michael_L_Morrison]

I’m still in your corner, wishing you all the best!!! I’m putting it out into the universe that 2025 is going to be a kickass year for you, Mike!!!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Always hopeful!

[@ernstbrehm1135]

You’re never, ever, going to please everyone. Let me just say, you are the one who got me into booktube & I am very thankful for it. I have watched every single video/ short you have made. It’s something I look forward to. You put out great content & hopefully 2025 will be a better year for you. Have Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!

[@mikesbookreviews]

Merry Christmas!

[@zezidantes5587]

Been reading Wheel of Time for the first time and watching your reviews straight after. Just started AMOL. Thanks for all your work!

[@PerfectCell9]

2024 was rough for me as well Mike. Lost my dad at the beginning .. then I got married in Sept (which was amazing) then my two best friends walked out of my life. 2025 will be better, hopefully for all of us. Keep up the great work sir 🫡

[@BaldBookTuber]

Much love to you Mike. 2024 has been incredibly difficult for me in a number of ways, and I appreciate and sympathize with what you’ve gone through. Here’s to a wonderful 2025 for each of us.

[@mikesbookreviews]

I appreciate it, brother. Hope you get back in the game eventually.

[@marynall7280]

Wishing you a better 2025. Thank you for showing up even when it was hard. That says a lot about you. Sending you and yours warm thoughts as we finish 2024 and start a new year. Cheers

[@scottaguirre1145]

I applaud you on your vulnerability. Makes me want to support your even more. Thanks Mike!

[@SciFiScavenger]

Mike, here's to a more positive 2025! Don't beat yourself up about 2024, any landing you can walk away from is a good one! If you would like to work together on some sci fi content next year I'd be very happy to do that. 👍

[@dpeady78]

Appreciate your honesty man, we are only human and trying to the best we can

[@damo6794]

Sorry you've had a rough year, hope the new one is better for you, I've made some videos myself and they can really lift you up or get you down.

[@mikesbookreviews]

It's a blessing and a curse.

[@stevee.oneder891]

You’re awesome man we love you keep going

[@BooksWithBenghisKahn]

Feel so bad about the hack, but your channel continues to be a consistent beacon of awesomeness in the community 💪

[@klrktsr]

Dude, you’re the best out there and a real treasure. I have been watching you since about 8k subscribers and have always been here. You’re most real and down to earth. I really appreciate you sharing the depression thoughts - I’ve been having something similar for a few years now and I 100% understand. Wish I could have a real friend like you. I think this speaks for itself. Take care Mike.

[@kathleensprinkle4308]

Sorry to hear about the challenges you faced this year. Someone once said that a person can fall many times, but they only fail when they refuse to get up. You got back up and that means 2024 was a success.

[@zkh7147]

“Real life doesn’t stop for this. It really doesn’t”. I think this is an important perspective to keep when things aren’t going great on channel. As a viewer, my interests and the amount of time I spend engaged with something fluctuate and wane throughout year as well. So it’s true for us too, and it can affect how much we engage with your content. So it’s a two way street and not all on you. It doesn’t change the fact that your channel is always something I can come back to and enjoy when I’ve got the time and energy for it! Thanks for keeping it real, and sharing tough experiences. It’s refreshing and only makes me respect you and your content more. Keep doing your best and I will keep enjoying the great space you have made for myself and so many others on your channel !

[@elizabaum]

I unsubbed a bunch of book channels last year just because of a personal phase of life in my viewing habits, but this year I'm slowly adding back the best of them. +1 sub here!

[@sleepevenbetter]

Big hugs from Miami, good sir. Thank you for always, and I mean always, being so authentic. Happy holidays 🎉

[@mickeyts5626]

Stand tall, Brother, Stand tall

[@Bella-von-Bellesh]

Rough year all around but your videos have been a light. Keep fighting the good fight sir. You make a difference without even knowing. xx

[@ChaplainMalachai]

Mike! Been around for 3 years and loved every minute of it. You are a constant watch every time. You helped me get back into regular reading and now I have so much on my TBR that I have enough to read for next few years. Been a rough year and we have your back buddy. Keep your head up and know that your work matters to us. Cheers Mike!

[@NikkiS2106]

Love your honesty in this video. I think 2024 has been a rough year I lost my dad in August and watching content like yours has helped me through a really tough time. Hopefully 2025 will be kinder to us all xx

[@meltil224]

So sorry that it's been a rough one for you. I do want to say that a real highlight this year for me personally was meeting you in Dallas during one of the Cahill and Ruocchio events (I wore the Maud'hib shirt in your honor for the occasion). So thank you for being a bright spot in my and so many other's lives. I hope 2025 is an amazing year for you!

[@mikesbookreviews]

That was a great time! Thanks for taking that picture with me.

[@Jump90]

I only joined your channel in october and didnt know what a rough year it had been for you. All i can really say is that i enjoy what you're doing and to keep going and having fun with it. Sometimes things we call failures are just branches on a path that we dont end up taking. Just got to keep on chugging along :)

[@mikesbookreviews]

Thanks! I'll keep on keeping on.

[@RoxieRo86]

I rarely ever comment anymore but this was a very honest video. I liked seeing your venerable side. We all go through it sometimes. I am hoping 2025 is a better year for you.❤

[@TrafalgarL4wyer]

The video just started playing but I came here to say we are blessed that you’re still posting consistently. Best booktuber to date and the best there will ever be. Thanks for bringing the joy of reading back to many, including myself. Been a subscriber for many years

[@texaspipeman8973]

You’re the only one that keeps me reading. I have no friends that read. I went from reading nothing 4 years ago to about 50 books a year now. It’s become my #1 hobby

[@n.m.wwelton6993]

You are my #1 Booktuber and one of my favorite channels to watch in general. Doing a great job! Merry Christmas to you and your family, and I can't wait to see how your channel grows next year. Cheers!

[@Tyler.Morgan]

I hope you know how much of an impact your videos have on people. Despite the difficult times, you're more appreciated than a KZbin comment can really show. I've watched your videos through some very high and very low times in my life over the last 4 years and I'm still grateful every time I get to tune into a new upload. Thanks for all you do, Mike! You're not alone out here and you have a lot of people that support you.

[@G0dzilla.92]

Thanks for being so honest in this video, Mike. You're in my top 5 favourite KZbinrs, and you helped me get back into reading in February 2020. I still struggle to find time to read with full-time work, a wife who works opposite shifts to me, and 2 kids under 6, but when I do finally sit down, my first thought is about how you helped me. I look forward to watching your videos in 2025!

[@johntorres2680]

i don't comment often, but your work on videos does not go unappreciated Mike. It's always a good listen while I'm at work!

[@VinceAnity]

2024 was rough for me too... a very harsh break up and some health issues... Time to slow down and do things that makes me happy

[@Paromita_M]

It's hard sometimes when what you are reading is public and things are going differently from what one has planned. I'm sorry to hear about the difficulties in 2024. Rejection is soul-crushing and yes, it is worse if one is struggling with depression. Take care. As a viewer who regularly tunes in, I hope 2025 is better for you and I look forward to what you have coming on the channel.

[@forwhomthesmelltolls]

2024 sucked for a lot of people, me included, enjoyed your honesty about what you’re going through. But We Keep trucking!

[@AdraVY]

Can't win 'em all Mike, it's normal to have a less-than-stellar year here or there. You're still my fave booktuber and looking forward to more content next year!

[@shakodeycarson9253]

Ultimately we stick around for you, your personality and genuineness. The content is number two, at least for me. I want to feel like im hanging out with a buddy who enjoys stuff I do. I think these types of videos are important because it gives us an even bigger glimpse of you as a real person and strengthens that connection. PS I liked the Mexico blog. I didn’t think you were too harsh and actually some of my favorite content is when people just roast the shit out of a bad book! I’m sick of wasting my money on books that are “meh”

[@caewing85]

It’s been a rough year over here too. Haven’t finished many books. Have just been busy. So I understand not being all in the book scene. Love your videos though!

[@jaredschmidt8440]

Thanks for being honest with complete strangers. Always an admirable trait. I have never seen anyone else but you behind that camera, Mike. I started my own channel. I made an agreement to myself that might help: Go at my own pace. Feeling pressure to do things won’t help the enjoyment factor. That can take many forms. You are a video making machine, my dude. Take a couple weeks off. We’ll be here waiting to see your smiling face on the other side. Just let us know. Like you said, “communicate” with someone. Love you, brother. ✌️❤

[@ezrider1968]

Thank goodness for the strong and smart women who are there for us when we are at our lowest. I’ve got an amazing one and it sounds like you do, too. I believe you when you say she’s saved your life.

[@ice5010]

Hate hearing you've had a rough year. Definitely not been a great year. Always staying optimistic about next year!

[@zack-apsalar-rake]

Just want to let you know. I really really enjoyed your channel. I am hoarding all the book recommendations you put out. Thanks and hope everything goes well in 2025!

[@spiciest-pepper]

Love you Mike! You are my favorite KZbinr. I only read 11 books this year, but I watched almost every single one of your videos this year because I come to this channel for you. You’re an awesome guy and I’m sorry to hear you had some low points this year but just know you’re brightening up the days of the people like me that watch. Thank you for all the work you put in on this channel.

[@iSamwise]

Hey Mike! You rock man! So sorry to hear about the rough stuff this year but your optimism and laid back personality is why so many of us have our small Booktube channels now! Thanks for always being so interactive too! How about next time I’m in TX I’ll buy you a beer?🍺 😊

[@jaimeabeytia9567]

I didn’t know you were in such a dark place. I watch you every morning before work and you have gave me some amazing book content so I hope 2025 is the year for you. Keep talking to someone because this place is better having you in it!

[@emosongsandreadalongs]

I love your channel, Mike. I started a new job recently and I've been so busy I literally haven't read a single thing in a few weeks. Hoping to get some reading done next week during the holidays

[@el_lagarto8966]

I've been in a dark place too this year, and I fully sympathize. I love your videos and hope that next year will be better. Please keep it up!

[@duffystrings9680]

Discovered your channel this year. I enjoy the vibes you put out.

[@ericg34]

You a real one Mike! Glad I subscribe to you this year, never stop doing what you do. All the setbacks are just learning and opportunities to make you wiser. Soon you'll be a content creating god, you'll see!

[@ravenbellebooks5665]

My heart broke for you when you got covid and couldn't go! I hope that another fun opportunity will pop up for you! After literly almost dying from dehydration due to pneumonia, I learned that my biggest failure has been never drinking enough water - and when you're sick you can't lay in bed for three days drinking or eating absolutely nothing. Extremely scary. I hope light will shine brighter for you, and I'm glad to still be here in your little corner of booktube! I appreciate you more than you know!

[@carrot6655]

I started reading in 2023 thanks to you. I love your videos always a pleasure listening to you talk while driving. I’ll support whatever you do Mike. Hope 2025 is everything you want and more!!!

[@wesparker5672]

Mike, Thank you for being so open in this video. Your videos/reviews are weekly highlights. You have gotten me into so many series that I wouldn't have read otherwise. Thank you for what you do and Merry Christmas!

[@riceninja051]

Mike you are my favorite Booktuber ever! You got me back into reading consistently when I thought it was impossible in this day and age of Social Media. Currently reading Swan Song because of your video and I'm loving it! Prayers for you!

[@NerdyKathi]

I haven't commented before but I have been a long time watcher of your channel. Some people tend to forget that KZbinrs are real people with real issues. I'm sorry it's been a hard year for you and I wish you only the very best in 2025.

[@arishamaharaj8671]

Hey Mike, i just wanted you to know that i love your channel and your content. I really look forward to your videos. Thank you!

[@gerrade71278]

I thought the stuff of yours I watched in 2024 was all great. I will keep looking forr you in 2025. Have fun!

[@mikekay9529]

Keep doing what you've been doing, as long as you're enjoying doing it. I appreciate all your videos and have gotten MANY great book recommendations from you over the years. Thank you!

[@steelepartridge6954]

Easily my favorite channel on KZbin. Keep it up and feel better, man!

[@scottferris2686]

I am bummed you had a rough year, but know that your videos and content brought joy and enjoyment to my year. My mother struggled with depression and her favorite quote was “this to shall pass” - so here is hoping for a better 2025

[@chucklitka2503]

I've read and enjoyed a number of books you've talked about, including Shogun and Gone With the Wind, so you've introduced me to new worlds, always welcomed. Thank you. I didn't notice any falling off of quality, I wouldn't let that thought get you down. I hope 2025 is a whole lot better for you.

[@kcsubotai]

I have been a haphazard reader for YEARS, mainly short stories, but when I found your channel it really changed my outlook on reading. Thanks to you my library has gone from 1 bookcase to 6. No regrets. You're doing great. I hope you have a better tomorrow than today, and a better 2025. Take a deep breath, we got you.

[@KyleMcGee4772]

Ur still the GOAT,we all love and appreciate you 🤘.

[@sabo-archipelago5520]

You’re pretty great dude. You got me reading both Sun Eater and Empire of The Vampire. I enjoy your videos thanks for your time and effort you put toward us.

[@Usernameforsf]

Thank you so much for your honesty! Although it might not have been your best year, I did enjoy your content a lot :) Must say that for me 2024 was really rough too… like too rough… but here is for a better 2025!

[@wenjones1167]

Mike, appreciate your vulnerability. You are fantastic and have introduced us to so many new books. We love your show, your reviews, and your sense of humor. Build on your success….we will be here to enjoy 2025 and so many more series and your reviews. ❤

[@therevanchist1123]

Loved the content all year long, I didn’t catch all of it but most of it and the drunk review was top tier, there’s a beach and booze, you’ve gotta be realistic about these things

[@IsaacFruits]

Mike, you bring myself and so many others so much joy through this channel. Whether you read 100 books or 2 I will still enjoy your thoughts and content. We value you as a human being not as a booktuber!

[@tgeraty1]

Thanks for sharing and thanks for all the content over the years. Your videos have been must-watch for my wife and I and have gotten me through my own dark periods. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

[@dukesburgs398]

You are an auto watch KZbinr for me Love your channel and how you show your love of reading All the best in 2025

[@tylerhoffman2271]

Sorry to hear your year has been rough, heres to a much better 2025! As for disappointments in books for 2024, set the goal to read Malazan in 2024 and was only able to get through the first 8 so far and just started book 9. These things are absolute monsters lol.

[@custarddavidson8104]

Sorry to hear about your year, I guess firstly thanks from us all for putting the work in despite that. I’ve been watching this channel since 2019, so when you are being super hard on yourself for the state of things you should definitely think on how far the channel has came since then and how much enjoyment you bring to people’s daily lives. Onwards to ‘25 Mike.

[@adamborst]

I know I'm just one voice but I'm always here for the content. Been more of a ghost on the discord, but you and Allen have driven me to so many great reads, I'll always come back.

[@mikesbookreviews]

Happy to have you along!

[@dubhmoore575]

Jeysus Mike, I am so sorry that none of us are supporting u enough so that u feel and understand what a special person you are to us in this community. I really hope that those special patrons hear who you are and open up that closed door again, I will make a Christmas wish for you😇. And I am so grateful Patience is a beautiful matching heart for you ❤ I honestly don't know where I would be without your friendly face and voice every week. . I know u are a numbers guy, but it's not always about how many pages are in the book but how the few pages in the book effect u, u make an effect in my life every tome u do a video. Thank you. Ps.magnesium?

[@jeremymason7124]

Sorry for the year being a rough one for you Mike. Here is to a better 2025 for you sir! Thanks for all the content!

[@AndrewsWizardlyReads]

Nothing but love for you my friend! You ever want to hang out or want to collab I’m here! I have taken a huge step back from livestreams lately…not sure why.

[@ozkantd]

Love your content Mike, keep on keeping on

[@larrpeninger]

Kudos to you brother, that took guts!

[@littleaussierippa]

Sorry you've had such a rough year Mike. But don't be too hard on yourself. Sometimes life just doesn't go the way we want it to. Just know that we appreciate all that you do for us. Failures and all. Merry Christmas to you and your family and may 2025 be a real banger for you.

[@josephfalcon1315]

Stay up man, your doing a great job! Been following you since 2019 and ive appreciated everything youve done from then to now. Keep it up brother

[@Dennis_M_Myers]

2024 was a hard year for a lot of us. As an author I can relate to the difficulty in handling rejection. All I can offer is that if you don't at least try, you'll regret the risk not taken. I think that's why so many authors send you books. Recognition from people like you can help boost an author's career just as larger BookTubers can boost yours. Christopher Ruocchio can attest to that, and often does. I hope 2025 is a better year for us all. As for me, I'm still hoping to spot a certain coffee cup so that I can yell about it in my newsletter. Love your channel and still enjoying the show. Happy Holidays, Mike.

[@unlimitedreads]

Your honesty and integrity continues to be one of my favorite things about you, Mike and I'm sorry to hear it's been rough for you this year 😢thanks for sharing and I wish you nothing but the best for 2025, your channel is awesome and a definite inspiration for me 🙌

[@ChristiansEntertainmentEcke]

Loved your channel this year even more than the years before. Back in the days, Dune was one of my favourite book that I discovered from your channel. Nowadays it changed to Shogun: My longest book ever read - gave it 5 of 5 stars. I just want to thank you for your effort. Keep up the great work and always remember: If only one of your viewers just discovered a new favourite author or favourite book because of you, then all the effort and passion paid off

[@marks7994]

The book reviews are my favorite vids, fwiw

[@cynthibook]

I'm new to the fantasy genra and discovered your channel. I love your content and the wide variety of books.