Agnieszka’s
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(group member since Feb 01, 2018)
Agnieszka’s
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from the Wanderlust Challenges group.
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Jan wrote: "Welcome Jonquil, Agnieszka, Ed & Sam!Yes Agnieszka - I will accept Eco-Pledge! It is a wonderful policy!"
YAY! Thank you.
Looks interesting and I'm looking forward to the next NP challenge.Exploring Prehistoric Cave & Rock Paintings
Start Date: 7/1/21
Completed: 17/9+
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
1. ARGENTINA: Cueva de las Manos
Read a book that features a hand or hands on the cover
✔ Read a book with a 1 AND 9 in the total page count Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2 - 199 pages
2. AUSTRALIA: Kakadu National Park
✔ Read a book that has the letter X in the title The Joy of X: A Guided Tour of Mathematics, from One to Infinity by Steven H. Strogatz 3* 8/29
✔ Read a book with a cover that is primarily RED
False Security by Angela Ruth Strong 3* 11/5 (100!)3. BRAZIL: Serra da Capivara
✔ Read a book that has a major dispute between the MC and another character in it Blackout by Lynette Eason 4* 8/7 - Macey (female MC) and her sister (view spoiler)
✔ Read a book with an author whose first and last initial is found in CAPIVARA. The Eleventh Hour by Anina Collins 4* 7/19 - CApivara
4. BULGARIA: Magura Cave
✔ Read a book where the winery or music is important to the plot The Song Never Dies book 1 in Cherringham - Episodes 22 - 24 by Matthew Costello & Neil Richards 4* 8/8 - the victim and most of the suspects are musicians (view spoiler)
✔ Read a book with a BAT (the animal) mentioned in the text Left Luggage by Andrew Christie 4* 7/16 - Fruit bats screeched and chittered above them and John hoped he didn’t get shat on as he picked his way carefully along the heaving footpath. (loc. 261)
5. FRANCE: Chauvet Cave & Lascaux Paintings
✔ Read a series book #2 & Read a book that has an animal on the cover
Granny Undercover by Harper Lin 4* 8/14 - Secret Agent Granny #2 & cat on cover✔ Read a series book #2 Called to Protect by Lynette Eason 5* 9/14/21 (322) Blue Justice #2
6. INDIA: Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
✔ Read a book originally published in 2003 Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation by Lynne Truss 3* 10/1 - orig. publ. date: 1/2/2003
✔ Read a book that takes place in a location that starts with a letter in INDIA Grime Beat by Marji Laine 3* 7/14 - Dallas, Texas
7. INDONESIA: Leang Tedongnge Cave
✔ Read a book that was added to your TBR in 2021 Puzzle House by Lillian Duncan 4* 9/13 - bought & added 5/6/21 since I add most of my books to GR only shortly before I read them (or when I notice they fit a more difficult challenge task) I picked one that I also bought 2021 :-D
✔ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in PIG After Hours by Anina Collins 3* 7/22 - (Elizabeth) 'Poppy' McGuire (Poppy McGuire Mysteries #2) since you approved this for a different challenge I'm using it here as well *grins*
8. SOMALIA: Laas Gaal
✔ Read a book with the letters COW found in the title A Match of Wits by Jen Turano 3* 8/22 - matCh Of Wits
✔ Read a book that has GR ratings listed on its home page between 5,000 and 11,000 The Witness by Dee Henderson 4* 9/4 - 9,715 (as of 9/15/21)
9. SPAIN: Altamira Cave
✔ Read a book that takes place in the 19th century Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer 4* 9/10 - set in 1885
✔ Read the first book of a series by a "new-to you" author The Buzz Kill by Katherine Hayton 5* 7/31 - The Honeybee Mysteries #1
*
I'm in!Republic of Palau's Capital: Ngerulmud
Duration: July, 2021
Level: Explorer (5-6 Attractions)
Completed: 12/5+
100+ pgs, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
Republic of Palau is an island country nestled in the Pacific Ocean. It’s an archipelago of over 300 volcanic and limestone islands that are covered in forest and surrounded by turquoise waters. It’s a pristine paradise and known as being one of the premier scuba diving locations in the Pacific.
✱ Ngerulmud is the seat of government located in the state of Melekeok on Babeldaob, the country's largest island. It replaced Koror City, Palau's largest city, as capital in 2006. It is now the least-populous capital in the world with a population that ranges between 250-400 people, depending on when you check.
✱ In 1994, Palau gained its complete independence. It continues to receive financial aid from the US, and in return, they operate military bases there for defense purposes since it does not have its own army.
✱ In 2017, Palau became the world’s first country to require tourists to sign an ‘Eco-Pledge’ upon arrival. Every incoming visitor must sign a stamped pledge in their passports to be a good environmental steward throughout their stay.
✱ The Republic of Palau has the smallest birth rate on Earth and with a population of just 20,000 people. As a result, their land, water and environment has stayed pristine and not been destroyed.
1. Capitol and Government Complex
This country's capital was built in 2006 from the ground up, virtually in the middle of nowhere as you can see from the above aerial view. It is not really a city but rather a monumental complex of buildings that includes the capitol and the executive and judicial buildings of the government. Designed after the US capitol, it is an impressive sight and visitors are often surprised by the scale of the complex, especially in comparison to its modest surroundings. Many comment on the fact that it feels eerily empty most of the time. Be sure to knock on the giant columns to discover that they are actually made of plastic.
📌 Read a book with a domed building on the cover
Persecuted: I Will Not Be Silent by Robin Parrish ?* 7/?✱ Read a book originally published in 2006 OR
✔ Read a book whose author’s first & last initial is found in CAPITOL COMPLEX. Left Luggage by Andrew Christie 4* 7/16 - CApitol
2. Stone Faces and Monoliths
Near the capital complex you will find a collection of prehistoric and striking stone faces dating back to 895 AD that are reminiscent of Easter Island's giant statues. The largest face is that of the god-king Odalmelech who stares mutely toward the ocean. In the surrounding garden there are more statues believed to represent his five councilmen. Further north on the island is the largest and oldest archaeological site in Palau, the Badrulchau Monoliths. They are an amazing collection of 52 basalt megaliths lined up
in two rows with crude faces carved into several of them. Archaeologists estimate they date back to 161 AD. Their purpose has been in question but they are believed to be the pillars of the largest bai (meeting house) ever built in Palau. Legend says it was constructed by the gods and could house thousands of people at one time. Today it is considered a sacred prayer ground.
✔ Read a book with a face shown prominently on the cover
The Eleventh Hour by Anina Collins 4* 7/19✱ Read a book whose plot includes archaeology in some way (tell us how) OR
✔ Read a book whose author’s first & last initial is found in ODALMELECH or BADRULCHAU. The Paris Protection by Bryan Devore 3* 7/12 - BaDrulchau
3. Melekeok Bai
The focus of most villages in Palau was a plaza that featured one or more elaborately carved houses made from fine hardwoods known as a bai. The most prominent bai being the meeting house for the governing male elders. The Melekeok Bai stands in isolation upon a hill accessed by a stone path. This elegant and well-proportioned structure is elaborately ornamented with traditional designs and colors, depicting important cultural motifs, stories and symbols. One of the main souvenirs of the area are storyboards. Seen as an extension of the bai, the storyboards are a graphic representation of the culture and legends passed down for centuries. Each is done by hand working from a sketch made with the help of elder storytellers.
✔ Read a book with a title that begins with a letter in BAI
Back Roads by David F. Berens 4* 7/4 (114!) - B-title
✔ Read a book with a male main character The Cruise of the Corwin book 2 in Alaska Days with John Muir: 4 Books in One Volume: Illustrated: Travels in Alaska, The Cruise of the Corwin, Stickeen and Alaska Days by John Muir 2.5* 7/4 - author = MC
✔ Read a book whose author’s first & last initial is found in MELEKEOK. Grime Beat by Marji Laine 3* 7/14 - MeLekeok
4. Lake Ngardok Nature Reserve
Located in the northern end of Melekeok state, this nature reserve is home to the largest freshwater lake in Micronesia. The lake and surrounding marshes is an important habitat and breeding ground for the endangered Palau gray duck, Micronesian pigeon, Mariana fruit bat, and saltwater crocodile. The lake has international ecological significance and was named under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Significance. The site has a well-maintained nature trail that winds through upland forest and grasslands. A floating dock offers a close-up view of the lake and surrounding wetlands so be sure to bring your binoculars so you can catch a glimpse of the local endangered fauna.
✔ Read a book with a lake, bird or amphibian on the cover & read a book with the word BINOCULARS in the text
Change of Fortune by Jana Deleon 5* 7/18 Ida Belle guided the boat slowly down the bayou, occasionally lifting her binoculars to scan the water. I moved my head back and forth, figuring the three of us probably looked as if we were at a tennis match, (p. 83)✔ Read a book with the word BINOCULARS in the text Another Hour to Kill by Anita Higman 2* 11/30 Magnolia laced the binoculars around my neck. [...] I lifted the binoculars up to my eyes and refocused the lenses. (loc. 506-507)
✔ Read a book whose author’s first & last initial is found in LAKE NGARDOK. Killer Cupcakes by Leighann Dobbs 2* 7/2 - Lake ngarDok
5. Ngardmau Waterfall
One of Babeldaob's premier attractions is Ngardmau Waterfall. It is the largest waterfall in Palau and flows from its tallest peak, Mt Ngerchelchuus. According to Palauan legend, it was formed by the body of a spirit, a huge eel with only one eye. One day, this spirit fell into a deep sleep, and unable to wake up again, his body became the river, with the head becoming the falls. It can be accessed on foot on a tough but rewarding jungle path. During the hike, you can find historical remains of Japanese colonial times along the trail, such as an old locomotive and other parts of an old railway system. If you’re not a hiking person, you can take a monorail or even a zip-line down to the falls. Be sure to take a dip in the cool pools at its base.
✔ Read a book with a mountain or waterfall on the cover
One Plus One Equals Trouble by Sondra Kraak 3* 7/5 non good visible but a mountain is in the background✱ Read a book that takes place in a jungle setting
✔ Read a book whose author’s first & last initial is found in NGARDMAU WATERFALL. Stuck: How to Overcome Your Anger and Learn How to Forgive by F. Remy Diederich 4* 7/24 - ngarDmau wateRFall
6. Beaches, Diving and Beyond
While you are visiting this island paradise be sure to spend time relaxing on one of the many white sandy beaches, or join a diving group to see some of the most celebrated diving locations in the Pacific. From Melekeok, you can take day trips to the other islands and snorkel in the legendary Jellyfish Lake, home to millions of these beautiful creatures, or spend a day kayaking in the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Rock Islands, which is made up of hundreds of uninhabited limestone islands amidst peaceful turquoise lagoons.
✔ Read a book with a beach scene on the the cover & Read a book whose author’s first & last initial is found in ISLAND PARADISE
Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2 - beach secen on cover & iSland paradiSe📌 Read a book where the MC snorkels, dives, kayaks or relaxes on a beach The Road to Key West by Michael Reisig ?* 7/? - they snorkel, dive and relax on various beaches in the Florida Keys
*
May I spell out 'Eco-Pledge'? I love this idea and think that should be much more common in the world and not only for the turists!Ngerulmud Spell Out
Duration: July, 2021
Progress: 14/10+
100+ pgs, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished, can use book titles, author's or MC's name (first & last)
Eco-Pledge
E: An Encounter at Pemberley: A Pride And Prejudice Variation by Isabelle Mayfair 3* 7/28 (102!)
C: Change of Fortune by Jana Deleon 5* 7/18
O: One Plus One Equals Trouble by Sondra Kraak 3* 7/5
-: Stuck: How to Overcome Your Anger and Learn How to Forgive by F. Remy Diederich 4* 7/24
P: The Paris Protection by Bryan Devore 3* 7/12
L: Left Luggage by Andrew Christie 4* 7/16 John Lawrence, Betty Lawrence
E: Elizabeth 'Bizzy' Baker: Dog Days of Murder book 2 in Country Cottage Mysteries: Books 1-3 by Addison Moore & Bellamy Bloom 3* 7/25
D: Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2
G: Grime Beat by Marji Laine 3* 7/14
E: The Eleventh Hour by Anina Collins 4* 7/19
Nature
📌N:
✔A: Ahmed: Final Vow by Kathleen Brooks 5* 7/23
✔T: There's No One Like Jesus by Blake Western 5* 7/5
📌U: Upał (Heat) by Marcin Ciszewski ?* 7/?
✔R: Rylann Pierce: Wiedersehen macht Liebe=About That Night by Julie James 3* 7/9
✔E: Elizabeth 'Bizzy' Baker: Santa Claws Calamity book 3 in Country Cottage Mysteries: Books 1-3 by Addison Moore & Bellamy Bloom 3* 7/26
(view spoiler)
Jan wrote: "Welcome Agnieszka! Just an FYI - I post them regularly every 3 months :)"I know - it's just seemed longer to me the last two times
YAY - this time it appeared ages until the new state was up - looks like I like these challenges more with each one :-DFifty Nifty US States: California
Duration: 7/1/21 - 9/30/21
Completed: 12/10+
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
1. Number: 31st State to Join the Union
✔ Read a series book #3 or #1 One Plus One Equals Trouble by Sondra Kraak 3* 7/5 - Love that Counts #1
✔ Read a book with a page count that includes 3 AND 1 There's No One Like Jesus by Blake Western 5* 7/5 - 130 pages
2. State Animal (Mammal): California Grizzley Bear
✔ Read a book with a title that has double ZZ in it The Buzz Kill by Katherine Hayton 5* 7/31 (103!) - buZZ
✔ Read a book with a title that starts with the letter C, G or B Back Roads by David F. Berens 4* 7/4 (114!) - B-title
✔ 3. State Bird: California Valley Quail
Read a book with a predominantly BLACK AND WHITE cover
Bubba and the Dead Woman by C.L. Bevill 2* 7/30✔ 4. State Flower: Poppy
Read a book with a MC whose name starts with a letter in POPPY. After Hours by Anina Collins 3* 7/22 - 'Poppy' (Elizabeth) McGuire
✔ 5. State Tree: California Redwood
Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in CALIFORNIA REDWOOD. Killer Cupcakes by Leighann Dobbs 2* 7/2 - caLifornia reDwood
✔ 6. Official State Nickname: The Golden State
Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in THE GOLDEN STATE The Eleventh Hour by Anina Collins 4* 7/19 THE
7. Most Visited Attraction: Golden State Bridge
Read a book with a bridge on the cover
✔ Read a book with a three word title. Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2
✔ 8. Must Try Food: Avocado Toast
Read a book with the word AVOCADO or TOAST in the text Grime Beat by Marji Laine 3* 7/14 - a remaining crust from a piece of toast. (loc. 1389-1390)
✔ 9. Weird Fact: Inventive Mindset
It sounds like Californians are inventive and like to have fun. Hula hoops, skateboards, videotape recorders, wetsuits, popsicles, Barbies, and blue jeans were all invented in the Golden State.
Read a book where the MC has fun in an unusual way. Change of Fortune by Jana Deleon 5* 7/18 - as former assassin she loves to stick her nose (and everything else) in official investigations, high speed chases, shooting, reading about wars, weaponary and similar topics, and the one her deputy boyfriend has the biggest issue with hanging out with the local mob :-D
✔ 10. Optional Bonus Task
Read a book that takes place in California. The Thousand-Dollar Tan Line by Rob Thomas & Jennifer Graham 3* 8/10 - Neptune, California
*
Jan wrote: "Unfortunately, I'm sticking to MP on this one Agnieszka. I know that's not easy but hopefully you will find something that works."No worries, I have some books but thought it this one fits why shouldn't I use it. Thank you!
For the task #7. Read a book by an author whose initials are MP - would you accept an author with initals PM as well or only the other way round? I'd like to use The Mystery of Smugglers Cove by Paul Moxham but wasn't sure if it fits here.
I'm in.Along the Silk Road: Uzbekistan's Cuisine
Duration: 6/4/21 - 8/3/21
Completed: 15/8+
100+pgs, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
1. PLOV
✔ Read a book where the MC eats an "ethnic" food Travels in Alaska book 1 in Alaska Days with John Muir: 4 Books in One Volume: Illustrated: Travels in Alaska, The Cruise of the Corwin, Stickeen and Alaska Days by John Muir 5* 6/21 - author (=MC) ate Native American food while exploring Alaska
✔ Read a book that starts with a letter in PLOV. One Plus One Equals Trouble by Sondra Kraak 3* 7/5
2. MANTI
✔ Read a prequel to a series Back Roads by David F. Berens 4* 7/4 (114!) - Troy Bodean Tropical Thriller #0.25
✔ Read a book by one of your most beloved authors Louisiana Longshot by Jana Deleon 5* 6/11 - I've read this book for the 8th or 9th time & read all books in this series and a handfull of her stand alone novels & the first in her other popular series
3. SHASHLYK
✔ Read a book with a skewer, long knife, or sword on the cover
No Such Thing As A Good Blind Date by Shelly Fredman 3* 6/20✔ Read a book whose authors first and last initials can be found in SHASHLYK. Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2 - ShaShlyk
4. LAGMAN
✔Read a book with the word NOODLE found in the text. A Year of Shorts: Flash Fiction by Barbara Venkataraman and 23 other authors 3* 6/24 - whacking one another with pool noodles, they keep doing it. (p. 152)
✔ Read a book with an MC whose first name begins with a letter in LAGMAN. Raport pelikana=The Pelican Brief by John Grisham 4* 6/7 - Gray Grantham
5. SHURPA
✔ Read a book that takes place completely in the summer or winter Unbelievable by Cindy Blackburn 3* 6/23 - set during summer vacation
✔ Read a book that takes place in a location that starts with a letter in SHURPA. Never Gonna Happen by Cynthia Eden 4* 6/10 - Ashville, North Carolina
6. ACHICHUK
✔ Read a "light" book (125 - 200 Pages) The Mystery of Smugglers Cove by Paul Moxham 4* 6/23 - 165 pages
✔ Read a book that left you feeling "light". A Mother's Day Murder by Dee Ernst 4* 6/4/21 - a light cozy-mystery with a happy ending
7. TEA
✔ Read a book with a teapot or a bowl on the cover
Bullets and Beads by Jana Deleon 5* 1/9✔ Read a book that has a three letter word in its title Her Sanctuary book 1 in Her Box Set by Toni Anderson 4* 6/25 - her
8. HALVA
✔ Read a book with a character that is especially sweet Persuasion: with original illustrations by C.E. Brock by Jane Austen & Charles Edmund Brock (illustrations) 5* 6/17 - female MC
✔ Read a book you felt was dense or heavy The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen 3* 6/18 - gothic mystery
*
Finished! (With only a few hours to spare *grins*)Discover Your Own Country - Germany
Duration: 6/1/20 - 5/31/21
Level Two: 8 books
Completed: 8/8
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
Read 3 books that take place in Germany.
1. Offenbach: was für eine Stadt by Winfried B. Sahm & Christina Uslular-Thiele 2* 8/8 lit. transl: Offenbach: What A City - a book about the city I live in
2. X-World by Jörg Arndt 4* 10/28 - set in Berlin, Frankfurt & a fictional game world
3. Jeder Tag ist eine Chance: Christ-Sein in Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft by Martin L. Landmesser & Johannes Sczepan 3* 12/19 lit. transl: Each Day Is A Chance: Being Christ in Business & Society - short witnesses or articles from people all over Germany
Read a book that is set in Berlin.
1. Teddy oder wie ich lernte, die Menschen zu verstehen: Aus dem Leben eines Polizeihundes by Cid Jonas Gutenrath 3* 8/11 lit. transl: Teddy Or How I Learned To Understand Humans: From The Life of A Canine Officer
List 4 things or places you love about your country then read a book that somehow reflects that attribute or place, telling us how. You can be as creative as you like.
1. Social system - book with an character falling on hard times and coming back on their feet (preferably with some help but on their own will work for me too) Forrest Gump by Winston Groom 4* 7/24
2. Freedom (faith, of speach, personal...) - either Christian fiction or centered around freedom in other area Escape=The Escape by David Baldacci 5* 7/2 - MC's brother was innocent in prison and during an attempt on his life was able to escape, the MC has 1) find him before others do and kill him & 2) clear his name so he can finally continue a life as free man
3. Free education - either a freebie or academic setting Worte müssen etwas bedeuten: Seine großen Reden by Barack Obama & Birgit Schmitz 4* 7/14 - library book & many of his speaches were aimed at young people
4. I often heard Germans are accurate/precise bordering on strict/rigid (appeals to my personality) - I'll see if I can find a book with a lovable 'Stuck-Up Suit' The Negotiator by Avery Flynn book 2 in Love in the Dark: 12 Book Boxed Set 3* 6/20 - male MC is a Stuck-Up Suit
Discover Your Own Country - Poland
Duration: 6/1/20 - 5/31/21
Level Two: 8 books
Completed: 8/8
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
✓ Read 3 books that take place in Poland.
1. Horyzonty uczuć by Dorota Schrammek 3* 6/8 lit. transl: Horizon of Emotions - set in northern Poland (Balticum)
2. Wiatr by Marcin Ciszewski 4* 12/27 lit. transl: Wind - set in southern Poland (Tatra mountains)
3. Początek=The Beautiful Mrs. Seidenman by Andrzej Szczypiorski 4* 5/31 - set in Warsaw
✓ Read a book that is set in Warszawa (Warsaw).
1. Mróz by Marcin Ciszewski 4* 1/20 lit. transl: Frost - set in and around Warsaw
✓ List 4 things or places you love about your country then read a book that somehow reflects that attribute or place, telling us how. You can be as creative as you like.
1. Country of my origin - either with a baby or a character moving internationally The Prince of Pleasure by Sandra Marton 4* 6/29 (view spoiler)
2. Rich history - historical fiction Das Memphis-Dossier=The Bishop's Pawn by Steve Berry 6* 6/6 - historical & contemporary plot coming in the end together
3. Family is very important - family centered story No Man's Land=No Man's Land by David Baldacci 4* 7/23 (view spoiler)
4. Favorite places: Cracow & Warmian-Masurian Lake District (north-eastern Poland) - set either in an old historic city (pref. Cracow itself) or at a lake Eine Geschichte aus zwei Städten=A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens 3* 7/9 - set in London & Paris
I finished another location YAY!7. Machu Picchu
M: Maureen Johnson: The Jubilee Express book 1 in Let it Snow 4.5* 12/1/20
A: Alaskan Quest #1 Summer of the Midnight Sun by Tracie Peterson 4* 1/27/21
C: Cowboys for Christmas by Jan Springer 3* 12/7/20
H: High Five by Janet Evanovich 4* 1/11/21
U: Underwood, Ed: When God Breaks Your Heart: Choosing Hope in the Midst of Faith-Shattering Circumstances 5* 12/25/20
P: The Pink Cupcake Mysteries #1: Sweets and a Stabbing by Harper Lin 4* 4/27/21
I: In Death #7 Holiday in Death by J.D. Robb 5* 12/17/20
C: Change of Fortune by Jana Deleon 5* 2/2/21
C: Cajun Fried Felony by Jana Deleon 5* 2/9/21
H: Hurricane Force by Jana Deleon 5* 1/26/21
U: Undeceived: Pride and Prejudice in the Spy Game by Karen M. Cox 4* 5/18/21
I've not completed nearly as many as I expected but decided to post my 'Completion Report' even if I'll keep working on this challenge.Iconic Trail: John Muir Trail
Duration: 2/1/21 - 5/31/21
Completed: 26/10+
1. John Muir
✱ Read a book where nature conservation is important
✔ Read a book whose title begins with a letter present in SIERRA CLUB Cajun Fried Felony by Jana Deleon 5* 2/9 - C-title
✱ Read a book written by John Muir or any author with his first or last name
2. John Muir Trail
✔ Read a book set in California Dying for a Date book 1 in Laurel McKay Mysteries Boxed Set by Cindy Sample 3.5* 2/25
✔ Read a book set in summer Change of Fortune by Jana Deleon 5* 2/2 - set in August
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initials are found in JOHN MUIR TRAIL. Come Sundown by Nora Roberts 5* 2/26 - johN muir tRail
3. Travel Preparations
✔ Read a book with a camping scene on the cover or in the text A Drop of Paradise by Alex L. Michaels 2* 2/28 - the MCs are stranded on an island and have to tend for themselves
✔ Read a book where something is organized or where the MC usually makes to-do lists Moving Target by Lynette Eason 4* 4/6 - the killer had a to-do list he 'worked' along
✔ Read a book with a wild animal on the cover or in the text
Fortune Furlough by Jana Deleon 5* 2/74. Departure: Happy Isles (Yosemite NP)
✔ Read the first book in a series Healing the Hurts of Your Past: A Guide to Overcoming the Pain of Shame by F. Remy Diederich 3* 2/16 - The Overcoming Series #1
✱ Read a book with a waterfall on the cover
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initials are found in HAPPY ISLES. Chasing Secrets by Lynette Eason 4* 4/13 - happy isLEs
5. Yosemite National Park
✔ Read a book set in a US National Park Dying for a Daiquiri book 3 in Laurel McKay Mysteries Boxed Set by Cindy Sample 2.5* 3/3 - the group spends a day at the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (in book it's called Hawaii Volcanoes Park)
✔ Read a book you hope you will like Meg's Best Man by Cynthia Bruner 5* 2/20 - loved it
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK. Murder in Lancashire by Jane T. O'Brien 3* 4/17 - yoseMIte nationaL park
6. Ansel Adams Wilderness
✔ Read a book with a photographer on the cover Gasoline, Texas by Joseph Flynn 4* 5/17 - “Win-Win was the photographer?” (p. 97)
✱ Read a book published with at least two different titles over the years (share titles) OR
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in ANSEL ADAMS WILDERNESS. Shadows in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 2/6 - eIlDerneSs
7. John Muir Wilderness
✔ Read a book set on the shores of a lake In Two Weeks by Jen Talty 3* 4/22 - Lake George, NY
✔ Read a book with 1, 9, 6 or 4 in the number of pages Fierce Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 3/11 - 314 pages
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in JOHN MUIR WILDERNESS. Judgment in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 2/19 - John muIr wilDerness
8. Kings Canyon National Park
✔ Read a book written by an author who has more than one pen name At Wick's End by Tim Myers 3* 3/31 - also writes under the pseudonyms: Elizabeth Bright, Melissa Glazer, Chris Cavender & Jessica Beck
✔ Read a book where the MC has to overcome an obstacle Swamp Spook by Jana Deleon 4* 2/5 - the state police are making life difficult for MC's boyfriend and try to make the MC a scapegoat - she has to circumvent them and find the real perp(s) of the crimes
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in KING CANYON NATIONAL PARK. New Corpse In Town by Lucy Quinn 4* 3/30 - kiNgs Canyon naTIonal Park
9. Sequoia National Park
✔ Read a book with a tree on the cover
Gators and Garters by Jana Deleon 4* 2/14✔ Read a book with an elderly character Reel of Fortune by Jana Deleon 4* 2/4 - MC's sidekicks
✱ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK.
10. Arrival: Mt. Whitney
✔ Read a book in the top 10 of your TBR Without Warning by Lynette Eason 4* 4/3 - sorted by date purchased (desc.)
✔ Read a book with a mountain on the cover
Kingdom Prayer: Touching Heaven to Change Earth by Tony Evans 4* 3/27✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initials are found in MOUNT WHITNEY. THR3E by Twyla Turner 4* 4/16 - mounT whiTney
Jan wrote: "Sure Agnieszka! I'll accept it :)"YAY. Thank you so much! Now it looks realistic I can finish this challenge.
@ Jen,I read preferably indie books and those often lack the appopriate taggs/MPGs but discovered in a review last night The Secret of Pembrooke Park is a gothic mystery so I checked the see top shelves link and discovered eight people tagged it GOTHIC. Would you accept it for task #55. Read a book tagged GOTHIC on its GR Homepage?
JoAnne wrote: "FINISHEDLandmarks of the World: Unfinished Landmarks
May 1, 2021 - May 14, 2021
7/7..."
Wow, that was fast! Congratulations.
That was fun! Already looking forward to next similar challenge :-DAround the World in 80 Days Journey
Start Date: 10/1/20
Option: One (Complete the tasks IN ORDER)
Completed: 27/27
1. London, England - The Reform Club
Read a book that has a male MC. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway 6* 10/1 - the old man Santiago
2. Dover, England
Read a book that is narrow (100 - 150 pages long). Neu entdeckte Freude=Let Me Entertain You by Merlin R. Carothers 5* 10/3 - 120 pages
3. Calais, France
Read a book with something “bright” on the cover
Forever Hidden by Kathleen Brooks 5* 10/6 - bright clothing and hat4. Paris, France
Read a book with a three word title. Home Before Dark by Christy Barritt 3* 10/9
5. Turin, Italy
Read a book that mentions one of the following: art gallery, church, palace, opera house, piazza, or museum. Forever Betrayed by Kathleen Brooks 5* 10/11 - Since he grew up outside of the palace, he had a different take on how to be royal and what his responsibilities were. (loc. 641)
6. Brindisi, Italy
Read a series book #4. Forever Driven by Kathleen Brooks 5* 10/14 - Forever Bluegrass #4
7. Mediterranean Sea
Read a book that has a ship in the story or on the cover.
Ein Wirbelwind namens Millie=Whirlwind by Cathy Marie Hake 4* 10/20 - the first 120 pages are set on a ship from England to New York & it's not well visible but she's on a ship (best seen on the left side of the cover) and behind her right shoulder (left side of her head) is another ship in the background8. Suez Canal, Egypt
Read a book with a character that is a detective. A Silent Terror book 1 in High Stakes A Suspense Collection by Lynette Eason 4.5* 10/30 - male MC is a homicide detective
9. Aden, Yemen
Read a book where the MC travels to a dangerous location. Shattered Lies by Kathleen Brooks 5* 11/19 - female MC goes undercover into the headquarter of the most dangerous drug cartel
10. Bombay (Mumbai), India
Read a book that has a jungle setting. Forever Notorious by Kathleen Brooks 5* 11/22 - set partially in Costa Rica, with one jungle scene
11. Allahabad, India
Read a book tagged ADVENTURE on its GR homepage or read a book where a funeral takes place. Stormbreaker=Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz 3* 12/14 - MPG: Adventure & the book starts with the MC's uncle's death and funeral
12. Calcutta, India
Read a book with a double T (tt) intact in its title. Brot backen: Brot und Brötchen selber backen – 50 gelingsichere Rezepte für Anfänger und Fortgeschrittene by Aléna Ènn 5* 12/22 lit. transl: Baking Bread: Bake Bread and Rolls Yourself - 50 Successful Recipes for Beginners and Advanced Bakers - double T in title (Fortgeschrittene)
13. Singapore
Read a book with a romantic activity in it. Der Report der Magd=The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood 4* 12/24 - kissing, sex
14. Hong Kong, China
Read a book with a teacup on the cover.
Never Buried by Edie Claire 4* 12/31/20 - teacup on cover15. Shanghai, China
Read a book tagged SCIENCE FICTION on its GR Homepage or read a book that takes place in a metropolitan city. Loyalty in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 1/3/21 - MPG: Science Fiction & set in New York City
16. Yokohama, Japan
Read a book that has the word CIRCUS in the text. Rock Chick by Kristen Ashley 3* 1/6 - Now people were staring at me as if I was a performer in the Jim Rose Circus Sideshow. (p. 170)
17. Trans Pacific Crossing
Read a book with a character that is an immigrant. Mróz by Marcin Ciszewski 4* 1/20 lit. transl: Frost - Ben(jamin) Barlow & Francesca 'Fransi' Schiavone-Barlow both live permanently in Poland (both started even businesses in Warsaw), he's of English she's of Italian origin
18. San Francisco, California USA
Read a book with TWO of the following numbers in its total page count: 1, 8, 4, 5, 9 (share page count). Nice to meet you, Jerusalem: Auf Entdeckungstour ins Herz der Stadt by Stefan Gödde 3* 1/21 lit. transl (sub-title) Expedition Into The Heart Of The City - 164 pages
19. Ogden & Salt Lake City, Utah USA
Read a book tagged NON-FICTION on its GR homepage or read a book that taught you something new. Infinite Powers: The Story of Calculus - The Language of the Universe by Steven H. Strogatz 3* 1/30 - non-fiction & I learned a lot about the history of Calculus and its implications for our life today, especially how many important everyday things wouldn't exist/be possible without it: GPS, microwave oven, WiFi, HIV medication,...
20. Medicine Bow, Wyoming USA
Read a book that got your heart racing or read a book with a train, bridge or river on the cover.
Later Gator by Jana Deleon 3* 1/30 - bayou (a slow flowing river) on cover & got my heart racing because it was fun21. Fort Kearney, Nebraska USA
Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in SIOUX. Shadows in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 2/6 - S-title
22. Omaha, Nebraska USA
Read a book from your TBR that is numbered in the 200 range when sorted by date added Meg's Best Man by Cynthia Bruner 5* 2/20 - #291
23. Chicago, Illinois, USA
Read a book that has fire as a central plot theme. Swamp Team 3 by Jana Deleon 5* 3/4 - somebody set fire on Ally's (MC's best friend) house
24. New York, New York USA
Read a book with the letters (intact) HEN or MISS found in the title, series name or author’s name. Loving Miss Libby by Rosemarie Naramore 4* 4/24 - loving MISS libby
25. Queenstown (Cobh), Ireland
Read a book set in a coastal town. Framed Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 5/8 - Shadows Landing near Charleston, South Carolina
26. Liverpool, England
Read a book where someone is arrested. Divorced, Desperate And Dating by Christie Craig 3* 5/9 - the perp
27. London, England
Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE To the Nines by Janet Evanovich 3* 5/11 - iNTernaTional
*
I'm inIconic Trail: Hadrian's Wall Path
Duration: 5/1/21 - 8/31/21
Completed: 29/10
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
1. Segedunum and Arbeia
✔ Read a book with the number 2 in its total page count Delirious: My Journey with the Band, a Growing Family, and an Army of Historymakers by Martin Smith 4* 5/29 - 224 pages
✔ Read a book that mentions the word "castle" or "camp" in the text Gasoline, Texas by Joseph Flynn 4* 5/17 - The citizenry divided into three armed camps, each of them trying to decide who to shoot first and how to make their ammo last. (p. 22) & Thorn had checked into the Gaslight Castle, the town’s deluxe hotel. (p. 74)
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initials are found in SEGEDUNUM. A Deeper Sleep book 6 in The Kate Shugak Investigation Books 10-20 Box Set by Dana Stabenow 4* 10/1 - SegeDunum
2. Vindobala
✔ Read a book in which the characters partake of an important meal or banquet The Heist: How Grace Robs Us of Our Shame by Chris Durso 4* 5/12 - Last Supper & the welcome-home meal for the prodigal son in Luke 15
✔ Read a book tagged RELIGION in its GR homepage A Higher Court: One Man's Search for the Truth of God's Existence by John L. Betcher 3* 7/27
✔ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in MITHRAS. Raport pelikana=The Pelican Brief by John Grisham 4* 6/7
3. Corbridge
✔ Read a book set in a city Początek=The Beautiful Mrs. Seidenman by Andrzej Szczypiorski 4* 5/31 - Warszawa (Warsaw, Poland)
✔ Read the first or second book in a series No Such Thing As A Good Blind Date by Shelly Fredman 3* 6/20 - Brandy Alexander Mystery #2
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in TABLETS OF VINDOBALA Travels in Alaska book 1 in Alaska Days with John Muir: 4 Books in One Volume: Illustrated: Travels in Alaska, The Cruise of the Corwin, Stickeen and Alaska Days by John Muir 5* 6/21 - tableTs of vIndobAla
4. Cilurnum
✔ Read a book with a bridge on the cover
Rapture in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 5/14✔ Read a book where someone takes a ride on a horse Persuasion: with original illustrations by C.E. Brock by Jane Austen & Charles Edmund Brock (illustrations) 5* 6/17 - a lot of horse riding
✔ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in CILURNUM. A Mother's Day Murder by Dee Ernst 4* 6/4
5. Brocolitia
✔ Read a book with a MC who is not from the country where the action takes place Three and a Half Minutes by Caroline Fyffe 2* 5/25 - an American in Austria
✔ Read a book published in 2020 Never Gonna Happen by Cynthia Eden 4* 6/10 - published in June 2020
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initials are found in BROCOLITIA. Her Sanctuary book 1 in Her Box Set by Toni Anderson 4* 6/25 - brocoliTiA
6. Aesica
✔ Read a book with water on the cover
Unbelievable by Cindy Blackburn 3* 6/23✔ Read a book where construction works take place The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen 3* 6/18 - the neigboring manor got an additional wing
✔ Read a book whose MC's first name begins with a letter in AESICA Divorced, Desperate And Dating by Christie Craig 3* 5/9 - Sue
7. Magnis
✔ Read a book whose MC is a soldier or a veteran Left Luggage by Andrew Christie 4* 7/16 - John Lawrence is a veteran (discharged due to injury)
✔ Read a book published after 2011 Framed Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 5/8 - published: 4/27/21
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in ROMAN ARMY MUSEUM. A Year of Shorts: Flash Fiction by Barbara Venkataraman and 23 other authors 3* 6/24 - rOmAn armY muSeum
8. Carlisle
✔ Read a series #9 book To the Nines by Janet Evanovich 3* 5/11 - Stephanie Plum #9
✔ Read a book set in Ancient Times or in the Middle Ages Royal Family by Summer Lee 3* 10/5 - set 5,000 B.C.
✔ Read a book with a personal name in the title or in the series name. Frightfully Fortune by Jana Deleon 4* 6/2 - MC's name is Fortune, series name is Miss Fortune
9. Maia
📌 Read a book with a cliff on the cover
The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen ?* 10/?✔ Read a book set in a small village Louisiana Longshot by Jana Deleon 5* 6/11 - set in the small fictional bayou town Sinful, Louisiana
✔ Read a book where all the letters of the word MAIA are found in the title. Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service by Michael Bar-Zohar & Nissim Mishal 3* 5/28 - MossAd: ... mIssions ... isrAeli
10. Hadrian's Coast
✔ Read a book where the characters take a walk Undeceived: Pride and Prejudice in the Spy Game by Karen M. Cox 4* 5/18 - both MCs in a group of four
✔ Read a book whose MC's name begins with a letter in ALAUNA The Mystery of Smugglers Cove by Paul Moxham 4* 6/23 - Amy Mitchell
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initials are found in HADRIAN'S COAST. Turtle Soup by Danielle Thorne 2* 5/22 - haDrian's coasT
*
YAY, one of my favorite challenges :-DNational Parks - The Roman Way
Duration: 5/1/21 - 8/31/21
Completed: 19/15+
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, 3rd task in each park 3-word minimum, re-post when finished
1. Beydaglari Coastal National Park, Turkey
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initial can be found in OLYMPOS. Delirious: My Journey with the Band, a Growing Family, and an Army of Historymakers by Martin Smith 5* 5/29 - olyMpoS
✔ Read a book with a MC whose first name starts with a letter found in CHIMERA. Three and a Half Minutes by Caroline Fyffe 2* 5/25 - Camille Ashland
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BEYDAGLARI COASTAL NATIONAL PARK. Your Inner Child of the Past by W. Hugh Missildine 3* 5/14 - beYdaglarI COasTal national Park
2. Butrint National Park, Albania
✔ Read a book with a nature scene on the cover
An Encounter at Pemberley: A Pride And Prejudice Variation by Isabelle Mayfair 3* 7/28 (102!)✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initial can be found in WETLAND. Turtle Soup by Danielle Thorne 2* 5/22
✔ Read a book with a MC that is a ruler There's No One Like Jesus by Blake Western 5* 7/5 - Jesus is King of Kings and the ruler of this world
✔ Read a book with a MC whose first name starts with a letter found in AUGUSTUS. Divorced, Desperate And Dating by Christie Craig 3* 5/9 - Sue Finley
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BUTRINT NATIONAL PARK. To the Nines by Janet Evanovich 3* 5/11 - buTriNT
3. Caesarea National Park, Israel
✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initial can be found in HEROD THE GREAT. Her Sanctuary book 1 in Her Box Set by Toni Anderson 4* 6/25 - greAT
✔ Read a book with a MC whose first name starts with a letter found in HIPPODROME. Framed Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 5/8 - Paxton Kendry
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CAESAREA NATIONAL PARK. Travels in Alaska book 1 in Alaska Days with John Muir: 4 Books in One Volume: Illustrated: Travels in Alaska, The Cruise of the Corwin, Stickeen and Alaska Days by John Muir 5* 6/21 - naTIonAl
4. Bet She'an National Park, Israel
✔ Read a book with columns on the cover
A Mother's Day Murder by Dee Ernst 4* 6/4✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initial can be found in SCYTHOPOLIS. Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2 - ScythopoliS
✔ Read a book with a MC whose first name starts with a letter found in PALLADIUS. The Heist: How Grace Robs Us of Our Shame by Chris Durso 4* 5/12 - Leonardo Notarbartolo
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BET-SHE'AN NATIONAL PARK. Another Hour to Kill by Anita Higman 2* 7/30 - beT-sHe'An ... parK
5. Vesuvius (Vesuvio) National Park, Italy
✔ Read a book with a mountain on the cover
Death Down Under by Samantha Silver 3* 7/2✔ Read a book whose author’s first and last initial can be found in GRAN CONO. The Eleventh Hour by Anina Collins 4* 7/19 - grAn Cono
✔ Read a book with a wealthy character or with a MC whose first name starts with a letter found in POMPEII Rapture in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 5/14 - Roarke (MC's husband) and most of the victims are wealthy, MC's first name: Eve
✔ Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in VESUVIUS NATIONAL PARK. Apple Pie and Arsenic by C.A. Phipps 3* 6/29 - nAtionAl PArk
*
I love all the information on these landmarks - thank you!Landmarks of the World: Unfinished Landmarks
Duration: 5/1/21 - 6/30/21
Completed: 21/7
100+ pages, re-reads are ok, re-post when finished
1. Basilica de la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
✔ Read a book that prominently features a place of worship in the story Delirious: My Journey with the Band, a Growing Family, and an Army of Historymakers by Martin Smith 5* 5/29 - Delirious? was a worship band and most of their concerts were places of worship, additionally their home church in Littlehampton, UK was the most important place in the band members lives (after their homes)
✔ Read a book originally published in 2010 Turtle Soup by Danielle Thorne 2* 5/22
✔ Read a book that takes place in a location that starts with a letter in SPAIN. Framed Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 5/8 - Shadows Landing, South Carolina
2. Hassan Tower in Rabat, Morocco
✔ Read a book with a tower or an intricate design on the cover
Undeceived: Pride and Prejudice in the Spy Game by Karen M. Cox 4* 5/18 - high tower & intricate design✔ Read a book with a page count between 144 and 200 A Mother's Day Murder by Dee Ernst 4* 6/4 - 200 pages
✔ Read a book with a location that starts with a letter in MOROCCO. Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service by Michael Bar-Zohar & Nissim Mishal 3* 5/28 - set mainly in the Middle East (or # 1.2 - orig. publ. 2010)
3. Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea
✔ Read a book that features a hotel prominently in the story Raport pelikana=The Pelican Brief by John Grisham 4* 6/7 - to stay alive the MC moves from one hotel to another
✔ Read a book with over 3,000 ratings on its GR Homepage Louisiana Longshot by Jana Deleon 5* 6/11 - 23,355 ratings (or #7.2 - Miss Fortune #1)
✔ Read a book that takes place in a capital city. Początek=The Beautiful Mrs. Seidenman by Andrzej Szczypiorski 4* 5/31 - Warszawa (Warsaw, Poland)
4. Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota, USA
✔ Read a book with a Native American character Travels in Alaska book 1 in Alaska Days with John Muir: 4 Books in One Volume: Illustrated: Travels in Alaska, The Cruise of the Corwin, Stickeen and Alaska Days by John Muir 5* 6/21 - travel guides and other characters
✔ Read a book tagged WESTERN on its GR Homepage Her Sanctuary book 1 in Her Box Set: Volume I by Toni Anderson 4* 6/25
✔ Read a book that takes place in the USA. Never Gonna Happen by Cynthia Eden 4* 6/10 - Ashville, North Carolina
5. National Monument in Edinburgh, Scotland
✔ Read a book with a title that begins with a letter in FOLLY Your Inner Child of the Past by W. Hugh Missildine 3* 5/14
✔ Read a book that takes place in the 19th century The Cruise of the Corwin book 2 in Alaska Days with John Muir: 4 Books in One Volume: Illustrated: Travels in Alaska, The Cruise of the Corwin, Stickeen and Alaska Days by John Muir 2.5* 7/4 - set 1881
✔ Read a book with a location found in the UK The Mystery of Smugglers Cove by Paul Moxham 4* 6/23 - set in southern England
6. Mingun Pahtodawgyi in Mingun, Myanmar
✔ Read a “large” book – over 500 pages long Country Cottage Mysteries: Books 1-3 by Addison Moore & Bellamy Bloom 3* 7/26 (702)
✔ Read a book where a superstition or prophecy is mentioned in the text The Heist: How Grace Robs Us of Our Shame by Chris Durso 4* 5/12 - He walked the earth, fulfilling prophecy. (p. 10)
✔ Read a book that takes place in a location that starts with a letter in in MYANMAR. To the Nines by Janet Evanovich 3* 5/11 - Trenton, New Jersey
7. Bara Kaman in Vijayapura, India
✔ Read a book where the MC attends a funeral or visits a graveyard The Secret of Pembrooke Park by Julie Klassen 3* 6/18 - MC goes to the graveyard to see on which grave two women left flowers
✔ Read a series book #2 No Such Thing As A Good Blind Date by Shelly Fredman 3* 6/20 - Brandy Alexander Mystery #2
✔ Read a book that takes place in a location that starts with a letter in INDIA. Rapture in Death by J.D. Robb 4* 5/14 - NYC
*
FinishedLandmarks of the World: The Taj Mahal
Duration: 3/1/21 - 4/30/21
Completed: 15/8+
1. The Taj Mahal, India's most famous monument, is a shimmering white marble mausoleum in the city of Agra. It is built on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, and was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. It is part of a 42-acre complex, which also includes a mosque, guest house, and formal gardens. Though it was completed in 1648, other projects, such as the gardens and surrounding buildings, continued for another five years. The total cost of the complex in 2020 dollars came to about $956 million, and employed around 20,000 artisans (plus some 1,000 elephants) under the supervision of an architectural board.
✔ Read a book tagged ROMANCE on its GR Homepage. Naked in Death by J.D. Robb 5* 3/5 - MPGs: Romance, Romantic Suspense
Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in TAJ MAHAL MAUSOLEUM (three word minimum).
✔ 2. There are four arched gates that serve as entrances to the complex and gardens. The Western gate acts as the main entrance to the tomb and is constructed from red sandstone with decorative marble insets. When you first approach the gate you are treated to an optical illusion. The way it frames the Taj makes it appear to be incredibly close and large but as you pass through the gate, it appears to actually shrink in size. Continuing on, you approach the tomb via walkways that border an impressive central pool which reflects the domed structure. Surrounding this waterway are beautifully maintained landscaped grounds.
Read a book with water on the cover or with a four word title.
Dying for a Daiquiri book 3 in Laurel McKay Mysteries Boxed Set by Cindy Sample 2.5* 3/3 - 4-letter title with a strip of ocean on coverRead a book with water on the cover.
Kingdom Prayer: Touching Heaven to Change Earth by Tony Evans 4* 3/27 - water on cover (including reflection)✔ 3. The mausoleum itself is constructed of white marble and is almost perfectly symmetrical. It is a "modified octagonal", consisting of four long sides and four chamfered corners. Its most spectacular feature is the central dome, which, due to its shape, is called an onion or guava dome. The top is decorated with a lotus design and a finial, and is about 144 ft high. It is surrounded by four smaller domes, along with four towers (or minarets) that were built for prayers. These minarets tilt slightly outwards to prevent them from crashing on top of the dome in the event of a natural disaster.
Read the fourth book in a series. Swamp Team 3 by Jana Deleon 5* 3/4 - Miss Fortune #4
Read a book with a MC whose first name starts with a letter in MARBLE. Forever Bold by Kathleen Brooks 4* 3/14 - Ariana Ali Rahman
✔ 4. The exterior decorations of the Taj Mahal, as well as the gates, are among the finest of Mughal architecture. The decorative elements were created with semi-precious stone inlays and carvings. In line with the Islamic prohibition against using anthropomorphic forms, the decorations consist of calligraphy, abstract forms or floral motifs. The imported inlay stones include jade, lapis lazuli, coral, onyx, bloodstorne, carnelian, cats eyes and turquoise, polished and leveled to the surface of the walls. Throughout the complex are passages from the Qur'an. For example, the calligraphy on the Great Gate reads "O Soul, thou art at rest. Return to the Lord at peace with Him, and He at peace with you."
Read a book with a title that begins with a letter in MUGHAL. Lasting Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 4* 3/9 - L-title
Read a book with flowers or jewels on the cover.
Loving Miss Libby by Rosemarie Naramore 4* 4/24 (or #1.2)✔ 5. Another alluring feature of the exterior of the Taj Mahal is its propensity to change colors, depending on the time of day. From dawn to dusk, the sun transforms it. It may seem pearly gray and pale pink at sunrise, dazzling white at high noon, and an orange-bronze when the sun sets. In the evenings, the Taj can appear translucent blue. Special tickets are even sold for full moon and eclipse viewings.
Read a book with an almost all white, pink or blue cover.
Fierce Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 3/11Read a book that has a color in its title. Vanilla Bean Vengeance by Agatha Frost 4* 3/30 - vanilla is also a color or True Blue by David Baldacci ?* 5/?
✔ 6. The smallish interior is open to visitors, and contains the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan in an eight-sided chamber ornamented with a carved lattice screen and walls covered by intricately carved marble panels with the gem inlays. As the mausoleom was originally intended solely for Mumtaz, her cenotaph is centrally located in the room. Her husband was later interred next to her, and his sarcophagi is supposedly the only thing out of symmetry in the entire complex. Of interest is the fact that these are for display only, as their bodies were actually buried in a room below.
Read a book that is second in a series. Sunken Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 3* 3/9 - Shadows Landing #2
Read a book with two like objects on the cover. Death in the Casino by Nikki Haverstock 3* 4/9 - several slot machines in the background
✔ 7. Age and pollution has taken a toll on the Taj Mahal’s gleaming white marble façade, which has yellowed under the sooty conditions. As such, the monument's walls are given an occasional spa day via a mudpack treatment called multiani mitti. This traditional recipe used by Indian women to restore radiance is applied, and then washed off with brushes, after which the Taj’s blemishes vanish, and its glow returns.
Read a book in which the MC has a spa day or some other type of get-away. Forever Freed by Kathleen Brooks 4* 3/12 - the MC goes to a friend's cottage to decompress from his work (FBI's Hostage Rescue Team, last stationed in the Middle East)
Read a book in which the author's first and last initials can be found in MUDPACK TREATMENT. At Wick's End by Tim Myers 3* 3/31
✔ 8. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". It is regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture, which combined Indian, Persian and Islamic influences, and is a stunning symbol of India's rich history. In 2007, it was declared a winner of the New 7 Wonders of the World initiative. It normally attracts 7–8 million visitors a year.
Read a book that has a 7 in the total page count. Saving Shadows by Kathleen Brooks 5* 3/7 - 272 pages
Read a book originally published in 2007. In Two Weeks by Jen Talty 3* 4/22
