WordPress or Bookstagram? Why Some Book Bloggers Are Choosing to Do Both
If you’re a WordPress book blogger, you might be wondering whether Bookstagram is something you should be paying attention to — or whether it’s just another platform that feels overwhelming to keep up with.
The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.
Some bloggers thrive on long-form reviews and love the depth that WordPress allows. Others are finding that Instagram offers quicker engagement and wider visibility. Many are choosing to manage both.
This post isn’t about pushing anyone to abandon blogging. Instead, it’s about honestly exploring why Bookstagram has become so influential, what it does well, and where WordPress still shines — so you can decide what works best for you.
The Strengths of WordPress Blogging
WordPress blogs have long been the backbone of the book blogging community, and for good reason.
Pros of WordPress:
- Ideal for in-depth, detailed reviews
- Allows full freedom over layout, length and tone
- Great for personal archives and long-term content
- Searchable via Google over time
- Perfect for readers who enjoy thoughtful analysis
For many bloggers, WordPress feels like home — a space to explore books deeply and thoughtfully, without character limits or fast-moving feeds.
Cons to consider:
- Engagement is often slower
- Posts can take time to gain traction
- Fewer authors and publishers actively check blogs now
- Social sharing relies heavily on the blogger promoting links
This doesn’t mean blogs lack value — but it does mean visibility often requires more effort.
Why Bookstagram Has Grown So Quickly
Bookstagram has become a central space for book discovery, particularly for authors, publishers and tour organisers.
Pros of Bookstagram:
- Instant engagement through likes, comments and shares
- Authors can easily reshare and interact
- Publishers actively monitor Instagram content
- Readers discover books visually and quickly
- Posts can reach large audiences within hours
For campaigns, Bookstagram offers something very tangible: immediate visibility. A single post can spark conversations, reach new readers, and keep a book visible throughout a release period.
Cons to consider:
- Less space for long-form reviews
- Can feel fast-paced or overwhelming
- Algorithm changes can be frustrating
- Visual content may feel intimidating at first
Bookstagram isn’t always comfortable for bloggers who love writing more than posting images — and that’s completely valid.
Why Some Bloggers Are Choosing Both
One option that’s growing in popularity is using WordPress and Bookstagram together.
This can look like:
- Writing a full review on WordPress
- Sharing a shorter version or key thoughts on Instagram
- Posting a favourite quote or takeaway
- Using Instagram to support and amplify the blog
Clipping a blog review down into a strong Instagram caption doesn’t mean losing depth — it means giving your review a second platform where it can be seen by more people.
For authors, this often makes a big difference. Instagram posts are easier to reshare, easier to interact with, and easier to keep visible during tours and promotions.
Why Love Books Tours Is Bookstagram-Only
At Love Books Tours, we moved to Bookstagram-only tours because we consistently saw:
- Higher engagement
- More visible author interaction
- Greater reach across campaigns
It wasn’t about excluding bloggers — it was about following where authors and publishers are actively looking and where campaigns were having the strongest impact.
That said, many of our Bookstagram hosts still run blogs. They simply use Instagram as the front-facing part of their support, with longer reviews living elsewhere if they wish.
So… Should You Switch?
There’s no pressure to switch completely.
You might decide to:
- Stay with WordPress only
- Experiment with Bookstagram slowly
- Use Instagram purely as a companion
- Or fully embrace Bookstagram if it suits you
What matters most is choosing a platform (or platforms) that:
- Feels manageable
- Supports authors effectively
- Fits your style and time
Trying Bookstagram doesn’t mean giving something up — it can simply mean adding another way for your voice to be heard.
A Gentle Encouragement
If you’ve noticed engagement slowing, or you’re curious why more tours and campaigns are happening on Instagram, it may be worth experimenting.
Even one post per book can make a noticeable difference.
And if you decide it’s not for you? That’s okay too.
The book community thrives because of its diversity — blogs, Instagram, reviews, discussions — all of it matters.
Need Help? We’ve Got You!
Got any questions? We’re here for you! Just drop us an email at
If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at LBTtourhelp@gmail.com.
For a great time and awesome conversations with our admin team and fellow LBT influencers, come join the
Book Bloggers & Influencers
If you would like to review as part of the Love Books Tour crew, please apply here:
Authors / Publishers
Offering successful book tours, bookstagram tours, cover reveals and blitzes. I would love to work on the promotion of your book. For new and previously released titles. All genres are welcome. Use my contact form to drop us an email or download our info kit here.
https://kellylacey.com/love-books-tours/.
If you have any questions, please email lovebookstours@gmail.com and we will be very happy to talk you through our services and answer your questions.
Please note our first reply sometimes hides in the spam folder. So please check there if you don’t get anything in your inbox. As we reply to each query.
In the name of full transparency, please be aware that this blog
contains affiliate links and any purchases made through such links will result in a small commission for us (at no extra cost for you).
Kelly Lacey & Love Books Tours 
I post to Instagram links to my posts on WP, but of course, Instagram doesn’t let you use hyperlinks in your posts. I’m now thinking about trying Substack either instead of or in addition to WP.
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I use both, with a Booksta review under the character limit, including within that a prompt to visit my WP blog for an extended read, with more images and insights.
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