I'm now 35 hours in and I've only completed 8 quests and killed 3 dragons. I'm taking my time.

What usually happens is that I'll be on a quest en route to some destination when I see ancient-looking ruins, an interesting cave or a bandit fortress...and I get sidetracked. That's the defining feature of Bethesda RPG's IMO and why I've loved every one.

The in-game books are excellent as well. I've probably spent 6 hours already reading every book I find. Even though I try to play it straight, I've be stealing books by the cartload. Seriously, I've stolen 100+ books. If it's one I don't have yet...bam...it's mine (and hope no one is looking).