2013 February Pick It For Me! Challenge

[Fran, Moderator]

Breann wrote: "Hi Fran! Loved looking through your shelves, we have very similar tastes :) Hope you find something you like!

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character: To Tame A Highland Warrior - You lik..."


Breann! That was so quick- thank you!


I would love to buddy read Gone Country with you- and yes, I will be borrowing from BN in Feb ;)

There's a whole bunch more I would love to get to, including, Fifteen Shades (great reviews), My Summer of Wes and Hot Head. I'll see how the month goes- thanks again for the great picks!

[Gea]

Sue.Rs you don't have a big TBR shelf, so it wasn't that hard to get around your books :)

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character
Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles - I have just read this book in January and it was awesome

2. Recommend a New Author- the author can come from their shelves or yours, as long as the author is new to them.
Flat-Out Sexy by Erin McCarthy - You have plenty of sports books on your shelves and this one is a nice quick read

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward - You have the first two books from series on your TBR and they are both great

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz - a new release, something everyone is talking about.
Reaper's Property by Joanna Wylde - An excellent 2013 release
Hot Ticket by Olivia Cunnig - It comes out in beginning of February and you liked the rest of the series

5. Sweet - Recommend a Friends to Lovers story
Hell on Wheels by Julie Ann Walker - This is a good romantic suspense book
Laid Bare by Lauren Dane - I have it on my TBR too and it sounds good

6. Tart - Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry
Too Hot To Touch by Louisa Edwards - I don't know author or the book, I have planned another of her books this month, but I thought this one would be more suitable for you

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods
Breaking Point by Pamela Clare - Another continuation of the series

8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood....
The Gamble by Kristen Ashley - It's on your TBR and it was good when I read it

[Nairabell]

Hi Dawn (Kat N Hat)! I had a ton of fun looking through your shelves :) Below are your picks, let me know if these don't work for you.

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character: Dark Desires After Dusk by Kresley Cole. I couldn't think of any and this came up on listopia. You read the first 5 and enjoyed them so why not give this a go?

2. Recommend a new author: The Accidental Werewolf by Dakota Cassidy. I noticed a few of my fave funny PNR authors in your shelves and thought I'd recommend another ;)

3. Choose a romance with a red hot cover: Beauty Awakened by Gena Showalter. I know it isn't out till the 26th but you seem to love her others so you may have this preordered. Definitely a hot cover!

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some red hot buzz: Easy by Tammara Webber is one I've seen mentioned everywhere lately. It's supposed to be a great read and I noticed you've enjoyed other new adult books in the past.

5. Recommend a friends to lovers story: Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles. Again not something I read a lot so this comes from a combination of listopia and hearing good things.

6. Choose...a book set in the food industry: Sweet Talk by Susan Mallery. What's more food industry than a bakery? I've heard good things about this one - plus cupcakes are always good ;)

7. Recommend a romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods: The Seduction of His Wife by Janet Chapman jumped straight to mind for this. It's one of the few contemporary romances I've enjoyed and set in the wilds of Maine and packed with hunky loggers.

8. Choose a book with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold: Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh. I spotted this on your TBR and thought I'd recommend it. Raphael definitely fits the criteria :)

[Makenzie]

My first PIFM, and I get to peruse Dee's extensive shelves. I'll get your picks up hopefully today. :)

[SandyC]

Hi Breann, my fellow Curious Raccoon! :-)

I've been doing the PIFM Challenge for about 3 years now and this is probably the most difficult one I've had! It's hard to be restricted to Romance since I read so many other genres, and I am unfamiliar with much of your TBR. Well, I may have stretched the rules a bit but I hope you find something on here you like. AND, since I saw what you recommended to Fran, that gives me the opportunity to cheat a little! :-)

1. Romance with Virginal Character: You've read 3 of the Hathaways so you will probably like Married By Morning. Lisa Kleypas has another series (Wallflowers) that occurs before the Hathaways. First book is Secrets of a Summer Night.

2. New Author: Simply Irresistible looks like a fun contemporary.I really enjoyed Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake and have since read the rest in the series.

3.Red Hot Cover: I would buddy read The Seduction of Elliot McBride if you want to. Another hot cover I saw on your shelf is Bound by Deception.

4.Red Hot Buzz:Reflected in You, On Dublin Street or Gone Country.

5. Friends to Lovers:Taking a Shot or Rocky Mountain Heat appear to fit this category.

6.Tart:Fifteen Shades of Gay or Delicious.

7.Hunky/Outdoorsy Hero or Set in Woods/Wilderness: Jamie Fraser is definitely hunky and outdoorsy, and he and Claire spend a lot of time outside! If you start Outlander now and continue the series, you will be ready for Book 8 which is supposed to be released this Fall!

8.Bad Boy: Not really a straight-up romance, but had romance in the story, I just finished True Colors yesterday and gave it 4 stars. Another bad-boy/good-girl book I really liked is Perfect Chemistry.

Happy reading!

[Penney]

Oh Renee, we're gonna have fun! Me likey your shelves gf. I don't know how I'll find 4 new-to-you books since almost everything I want to pick is already on your TBR, but that'll be the fun part :)
Let me just finish cleaning my kitchen (cuz I just got it like that) and then I'll get right on your picks.

[Penney]

Fran, brava! That was a lot of work girlfriend. Well done :)

[Fran, Moderator]

Penney wrote: "Fran, brava! That was a lot of work girlfriend. Well done :)"

Thank you Penney! I have a new appreciation for every PIFM host :)

[Fran, Moderator]

Sandy wrote: "Hi Breann, my fellow Curious Raccoon! :-)

I've been doing the PIFM Challenge for about 3 years now and this is probably the most difficult one I've had! It's hard to be restricted to Romance since..."

Bending the rules and a little cheating are all good! I am a total rule bender so no worries :)

[SandyC]

Thanks, Fran. And, great job by the way! I would be terrified to moderate this challenge!

[~Leslie~]

Hi Shell I will be picking for you this month and am working on it today. I will have it ready for you later. I'm so excited!

[Daffodil]

Bre

I enjoyed looking through your shelves. I noticed you joined GR in October, so if I pick anything you've already read but haven't had a chance to add to your shelves yet, just let me know.

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character
A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks -- I didn't see this listed with the other Sparks' books on your shelf.

2. Recommend a New Author
Sweet Surrender -- I love Maya Banks and the only Banks' book I saw on your shelf was a not yet released title. This is the first book in the Sweet series and definitely worth reading.

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover
Secret Ties by Opal Carew or Satisfaction Guaranteed by Charlene Teglia -- I didn't see either of these authors on your shelves and I think they would both fit there fine.

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young -- I haven't read this yet, but I added to my TBR a while back because of all the recommendations I've seen.

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story
The Vincent Boys by Abbi Glines -- I've not read this author, but you enjoyed books from two of her other series.

6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry
The Arrangement 2 by H.M. Ward -- Another author I've not read, but you've enjoyed reading.

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods
Long Hard Ride by Lorelei James -- Cowboys work outdoors, so their outdoorsmen. Right? This is the first book in the Rough Riders series and I think it fits in with other books from your shelves.

8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood....
The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton -- I've had this on my TBR for a while. It's highly rated and I'm hoping to read this soon myself.

[Emily]

Valerie- Varuca

Hope you enjoy your picks. I have marked books for possible buddy reads with a *.

1) Virginal Character or
2) New Author * or
3) Red Hot Cover * or *
4) Red Hot Buzz or
5) Friends to Lovers
6) Food industry * or * or *
7) Outdoor Book
8) Bad Boy Hero with heart of gold or

[Diane ~Firefly~]

Iris

I had fun looking through your shelves. I hope you find something that peaks your interest.

1. Virginal character - I figure I'm pretty safe choosing historical romances here. Here's two of my favorites by Amanda Quick (pseudonym for Jayne Ann Krentz) Dangerous or Scandal

2. New Author - Bitten by Kelley Armstrong is the start of a great PNR/UF series. This one is about Elena, the only female werewolf. Clay is one of my favorite heroes. Thigh High by Christina Dodd - you don't need to read this series in order as they are very loosely connected. A fun contemporary.

3. Red Hot Cover - Bound By Blood by Cynthia Eden I found on your TBR shelf and I've heard good things about the author. Plus it sounds like this one is a bit more steamy if you're in the mood for that.

4. Red Hot Buzz - I don't know if it is currently being buzzed, but it was super hyped when it first came out and lived up to it - Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison

5. Sweet (Friends to Lovers) - not a sub-genre I usually read. The closest I could come up with is And One Last Thing ... by Molly Harper. They go from strangers, to enemies to friends to lovers fairly quickly.

6. Tart - Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie, one of my favorite books. You like Christie Craig, so you should really enjoy this and it is much better than The Cinderella Deal, plus it had cherries on the cover.

7. Set in the wilds - Heart of the Dragon by Gena Showalter takes place in the jungle.

8. Bad Boy Hero - Mystery Man by Kristen Ashley. I hated the hero for 3/4's of the book as he was uber-alpha but still couldn't put the book down and have kept reading the series.

[Amy J.]

for sallie(shuga)

I believe this now meets the "All Romance Rule"

I hope you can find something to enjoy!

1. Virginal Characters - Delicious or Unearthly

2. New Author- One Dance with a Duke

3. Red Hot Cover- Pleasure and Purpose

4. Red Hot Buzz- Gone Country

5. Friends to Lovers- The Luxe or Dangerous Cravings

6. Tarts- Bread Alone

7. Hunky, Outdoorsy Heros- Slave to Sensation or Blameless

8. Bad Boy Hero- Play Dirty

[Fran, Moderator]

You guys don't have to stick to the all romance rule, it's just a suggestion- how about mostly romance?

****changed wording to mostly Romance titles *******

[Kami]

FOR christina
February is also considered a romantic month. The month of love. So for all of us Romance Readers and Romantics, let's recommend all Romance titles to our pickees this month. Pretty please with a cherry on top!

Please also make sure to select at least 4 titles from your pickees shelves to recommend to them. And at least 4 that are completely new.

I couldn't resist when I learned it was 'Cherry' Month...

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character


Outlander (Outlander, #1)Gabaldon, Diana or 

Beautiful Disaster (Beautiful, #1) by Jamie McGuire

2.Recommend a New Author- the author can come from their shelves or yours, as long as the author is new to them. 


If I Were You (Inside Out Trilogy, #1)Jones, Lisa Renee or

Making Waves Fenske, Tawna 

Cherries are Red, the color of passion and desire...

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover 

Eagle's Run (Texas Passions #1)by Desiree Holt or 
Darkness Awakened (Order of the Blade: Primal Heat Trilogy #1) or
After the Fire (Hidden Cove #1)by Kathryn Shay

4.Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz- a new release, something everyone is talking about. Here is a shelf you may want to check out for some inspiration... 

Bared to You (Crossfire #1)by Sylvia Day 

Some cherries are sweet, some tart...

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story

A Beautiful Struggle (Beautiful #1) by Lilliana Anderson 

6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden or 
The Crimson Petal and the White by Michel Faber or
Belle de Jour: Diary of an Unlikely Call Girl(Belle De Jour #1)by Belle de Jour

George Washington said "I cannot tell a lie...I chopped down the cherry tree."

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods

Taken by the Cowboy by Julianne MacLean or 
Wicked Games by Jill Myles

8.Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood.... 

Eternal Rider (Lords of Deliverance #1)by Larissa Ione

[MountainKat, Moderator]

Fran, you are such a softy!!

I'll be a bit of a bully =P I think the important thing to remember is that this is a romance readers group, most of us joined because we read romance. Some of us mostly, some of us exclusively. Look at your pickee's shelves, see what they read and what they enjoy, check to see if there is a genre they have been reading lately and then use your best judgement! The point here is to try to come up with ideas they will like, yes it involves sharing your favorites, but use some thought - if you only read historicals and they don't read them at all then your favorites aren't likely to be well received if you only pick historicals. Or PNR, or YA, or Romantic Suspense... Try to find what they like, it's fun really!!

[Skandia]

Hi Brett,
Here are my picks for you. I hope you find something you like.

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character
Losing It - the title says it all ...

2. Recommend a New Author
Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake or A Rogue by Any Other Name
Both by Sarah MacLean and she is really good. I have read and loved both books

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover


4.Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz
The Edge of Never - I have read a lot of good reviews about this book lately and it sure looks interesting

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story
The Vincent Boys - this is YA, but I really liked it. Good characters and hot young love.
Rocky Mountain Heat - looks like this fits the task too if you are not into YA.

6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry
Garden Spells - the main character has a catering service with a little twist in her food. Sarah Addisson Allen writes a beautiful story, loved it.

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods
Elizabeth's Wolf
Hell on Wheels
both from your TBR

8.Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold
Leave Me Breathless

[Breann]

I think you're absolutely right MK! Each month there's usually a new author/genre/series category where you can suggest one of your faves. I try to pick what I think they'll like but still squeeze in something new to try ;)

[Elizabeth]

Hi Daffodil!
This is my first PIMF challenge, so be patient please and let me know if my suggestions don't work for you:)

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character: The Seduction of Elliot McBride by Jennifer Ashley. I also plan to read it soon!

2. Recommend a new author: A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole (although it's #2 of the IAD series, it was the first one I read and was hooked!)

3. Choose a romance with a red hot cover: Wicked Ties by Shayla Black or Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some red hot buzz: On Dublin Street by Samantha Young. (It is also in my TBR list, so we can compare notes!)

5. Recommend a friends to lovers story: Venetia by Georgette Heyer. It is one of my favorite regency romances

6. Choose...a book set in the food industry: Wild Man Creek by Robyn Carr (if it is ok for you to skip books), alternatively Sweet Talk by Susan Mallery.

7. Recommend a romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods: Prey: A Novel by Linda Howard (my favorite LH novel!)

8. Choose a book with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold: Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward. I love Butch, although Rehvenge is my favorite!

[~Leslie~]

Hi Shell I had so much fun going through your shelves! We had some in common but you had a lot of authors I didn't know - but want to now!! I hope I found some good picks for you. Happy to choose again if I didn't.

Your Shelves

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character:The Girl in the Steel Corset or The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever
The first is a YA book that I enjoyed quite a bit and the second is just a fun, historical romp!


2. Recommend a New Author- Firelight or Spider's Bite I've recently discovered both of these authors and both books were 5 star reads for me. So I thought I would recommend them to you.


3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover Red Heat or Stolen Fury I am not familiar with the first but I liked the cover and the second book is a new series I've discovered and really like.


4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz-Iced or Gunmetal Magic Both are not real new releases but new enough! I have not read the first but I've heard good things and I do love KMM! The second is a spinoff series from one of my favorite series and I see that you like it too. Andrea's book is great!


My shelves

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story He Loves Lucy I thought this was such a good story. Very sweet but well done.


6. Tart- Daughter of the Blood This was a PIFM recommendation and I have become hooked. It is dark fantasy and sooooo good! Highly recommend.


7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman heroInstant AttractionJill Shalvis has become my new favorite contemporary author and I really like this series.


8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Texas DestinyThis book was also a recommendation and it was amazing.

[Breann]

Fran wrote: "Breann wrote: "Hi Fran! Loved looking through your shelves, we have very similar tastes :) Hope you find something you like!

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character: To Tame A Highland Wa..."

Awesome! Want to do it towards the beginning of the month so we can make sure there are still copies available to borrow?

[Breann]

Sandy wrote: "Hi Breann, my fellow Curious Raccoon! :-)

I've been doing the PIFM Challenge for about 3 years now and this is probably the most difficult one I've had! It's hard to be restricted to Romance since..."

Girl, you did a pretty good job considering how different our shelves are!

I'll definitely read Gone Country & Bound by Deception. I would love to buddy read The Seduction of Elliot McBride! I think I'll listen to Outlander (it's 32 hrs long, so we'll see if I finish it within the month!). I might even squeeze in Married By Morning.

Thanks for the great picks!

[Makenzie]

Dee....I think this has been more a challenge of me finding books you haven't read! Haha. Finding books not on your list was an even greater challenge, but I think I was able to find a few. :) This is my first PIFM, so I hope I've provided at least one book that piques your interest.

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character:
In Bed with a Highlander by Maya Banks -- I just read this trilogy in December and loved it.

2. Recommend a New Author:
On Dublin Street by Samantha Young -- Young is a new author for me as well, but it's on my TBR list, and I hope to read it this month (if you're interested in a buddy read)

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover: 
True of Heart by M.L. Rhodes -- You had it on your TBR-owned list. Plus it's red....and hot!
The Seduction of Elliot McBride by Jennifer Ashley -- I believe you're up to this book in the series. I just started the series and can't wait to get to this one.

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz:
Bared to You by Sylvia Day -- It has its mixed ratings, but it's popular right now, and I didn't see it on your shelf.

5. Sweet - Recommend a Friends to Lovers story:
Daring to Dream by Nora Roberts -- I read this trilogy in January and thought it very sweet with a little drop of fantasy.

6. Tart - Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry:
Always the Baker, Never the Bride by Sandra D. Bricker -- It was a cute, free Kindle read that I came across last year
Too Hot To Touch by Louisa Edwards -- Found this on your TBR shelf and it seemed perfect for this one.

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods:
Mackenzie's Mountain by Linda Howard -- This was pretty much the first romance novel I read, and the series has remained one of my favorites.
The Gamble by Kristen Ashley -- This is on my TBR for Random Book List #115 due Feb 5th and would be an option for a Buddy Read as well.

8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood: 
The Return of Rafe MacKade by Nora Roberts -- First in a quartet about 4 bad boy brothers attempting to settle down in Antietam, Maryland. A neat little civil war ghost story thrown in the mix.
More Than a Mistress by Mary Balogh -- I noticed you comment in last month's thread that you're trying to go through Balogh's backlist, so I figured I'd throw in one of hers to help you plow through that long list.

[SandyC]

Breann wrote: "Sandy wrote: "Hi Breann, my fellow Curious Raccoon! :-)

I've been doing the PIFM Challenge for about 3 years now and this is probably the most difficult one I've had! It's hard to be restricted to..."

Breann, if you do listen to Outlander, you will love Davina Porter's narration. Her Scottish accents are spot-on. Hope you like your choices!

Let me know when you'd like to start Mr. McBride. I will set up a thread for us.

[Fran, Moderator]

Kat, you are no bully, LOL!!

Love the back-up :)

[Penney]

Fran, I have to agree with Kat. Most of the fun comes from trying to stick to the rules, and you've come up with some great ones :)

[Ashley]

Hi Sue!
Here are my picks for you. I hope that you enjoy them. And if you want me to do any re-picks just say so and I would happy too.

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character-
My first virgin rec is The Bride by Julie Garwood. I noticed that you don’t have many Historical Romance books. However this is a great introduction into this genre.


My second rec is Compromising Positions by Jenna Bayley-Burke. Which is a light hearted fun read about two people who end up teaching a Kama sutra class together.


2. Recommend a New Author- the author can come from their shelves or yours, as long as the author is new to them.

The first new author book is from your TBR shelf. No Turning Back (Kathleen Turner #1)
by Tiffany A. Snow. I have actually never read this book but it looked interesting.


The second one is from my Read list. The book is Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen. I noticed that you have not read any of her work. This is one of my favorite books and she is an awesome author.


3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover

Beast Behaving Badly by Shelly Laurenston. This is my favorite book in the series and boy the guys muscles on the cover are defiantly hot. What I like most about the book is the heroine is down right goofy and cracks me up the whole time.


The second book is one with a red hot cover. The Jane Austen Book Club by Karen Joy Fowler. A lot of people seemed to dislike this book but I am not one of them. Reading them reminded me of how much I love Austen and right afterwards I went back and re read all my favorites.


4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz- a new release, something everyone is talking about. Here is a shelf you may want to check out for some inspiration... To Die For

The first book I am going to rec is The Edge of Never by J.A. Redmerski. I have not personally read this book but it has an average rating of 4.54. So there has to be something good about it right? Anyways I would be willing to do a buddy read on this one if you are interested?


The second rec is Divergent by Veronica Roth. This book has the same feel as Hunger Games. And while I did enjoy it Hunger Games is still better in my opinon. Regardless it is a worthwhile read.


5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story

Geek Girl by Cindy C. Bennett. This is a book about a younger hero and heroine then I normally read but it was just so darn sweet I couldn’t help but love it.


The second rec is Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins. Another sweet book that I loved


6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry

This one was actually really hard for me because surprisingly the only prostitute book I’ve read was Memoirs of a Geisha which you have already read. So I am going to recommended Fallen from Grace by Laura Leone. I have never read this book but a lot of Goodreads friends have and they loved it.


The second one is Les Misérables by Hugo, Victor. Which was a great movie.


7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods

First rec is The Art of Seducing a Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper. Which is a funny book with plenty of wilderness seductions. And the Hero was bitten on the butt which amused me to no ends.


Lets go camping with Exclusively Yours by Stacey, Shannon. Wow that was cheesy.


8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood....

I love bad boys. I recommend Rock Chick by Kristen Ashley. The hero Liam is the best type of bad good boy you could hope for.


Next Captive in the Dark by C.J. Roberts. Which is a really intense book. I am pretty that while reading it I experienced Stock Holm Syndrome.

[~KarenH~, Moderator]

Hi Pam!
I enjoyed looking through your bookshelves because our tastes are rather different. I’m giving you a couple of choices for each category since I had a little trouble getting a good idea of your likes and dislikes, and wanted to do what I could to make sure you found something you like, so here goes!

I couldn't resist when I learned it was 'Cherry' Month...
1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character
Ten Ways to Be Adored When Landing a Lord - You liked the first book, why not continue the series?
Soulless - A quirky, fun mishmash of genres, and if you can get your hands on the audio version, the narrator does an excellent job.
2. Recommend a New Author - the author can come from their shelves or yours, as long as the author is new to them.
From your shelves – Pleasure Unbound
From my shelves – Midnight Man

Cherries are Red, the color of passion and desire...
3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover
Ok, a red cover… and a hot cover…
4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz - a new release, something everyone is talking about
On the Island – I’m not normally a big fan of YA, but this was excellent
On Dublin Street – Definitely lives up to all the hype – amazing book!

Some cherries are sweet, some tart...
5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story
Out Of Her League – not the best book in the series, but still very good and the rest of the series is excellent.
The Mane Event – two great love stories in one, and very funny!
6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry
Again, one of each – Claiming the Courtesan or Hot in Here

George Washington said "I cannot tell a lie...I chopped down the cherry tree."
7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods
All He Ever Needed – Next up for you in the wonderful Kowalski series
Wild Heat – New author for you, the more of her stuff I read, the more I like her.
8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood....
One Reckless Summer – Amazing, wonderful book with a very definitely misunderstood bad boy
Kiss of the Highlander – since Karen Marie Moning is the Featured Author in the FAC next month. In my opinion this is the best of the entire Highlander series, and you don’t need to read the first three before reading this one (and that’s coming from someone who is VERY obsessive about reading series books in order).

I hope you can find something you like here, if not let me know and I’ll give it another shot! Happy reading!

[S]

Hi Misskim! *Waves*

I've tried to mix some from your excited-to-read, to-read and some new ones. Hope you find some you want to read!

1. Virgin Character
Never Seduce a Scot by Maya Banks - It is such a beautiful story and I saw that you liked Outlander so why don't try another Highlander romance?

2. New Author
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini - One of the best books I've ever read so why don't bump it up on your tbr?

3. Red Hot Cover
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley - Okay I might be stretching the red here but it is one of the best historical romances. You really like Jane Austen so I think you'd love this one xD

4. Red Hot Buzz
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare - From your tbr and it's coming out as a movie soon!

5. Friends to Lovers Story
Emma by Jane Austen - Spot on, beautiful and on your "excited-to-read".

6. Food Industry
Exquisite by Ella Frank - All of my GR friend are raving and I'm half way right now! Hot and beautiful with a totally yummy chef as the hero.

7. Set in Wilderness
The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R Tolkien - So good! You really liked the Hobbit and this one is better! And on your to-read shelf xD

8. Bad Boy Hero with a Heart of Gold
A Week to Be Wicked by Tessa Dare - Notorious rake hero and one of the funniest romances. I don't know anyone who didn't love this book.

[Renee]

Hey PhotoJim, way to make it hard on a girl, only having one book on your TBR... jeesh! ;-)

The good news is that your love of sci-fi and PNR helped me out. I like your taste! I hope you can find one or two that look good from this list...

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character

The Darkest Kiss

I saw that you didn't care for the first book in this series. Neither did I! But this one came up in another challenge for me, so I gave it a shot. It's much better than the first one, I think. The characters are easier to deal with, and I loved the heroine.

2. Recommend a New Author

Claimed

Evangeline Anderson writes some great sci-fi into her romance novels. This series is really quirky and has it's silly moments, but the story is definitely original. I've been really enjoying these, and this one was one of my favorites.

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover

Willing Victim

I was trying to find one with a sexy chick on the cover, but came up short. Settled for this book, since I LOVED it so much, and it seems like you might enjoy it. Don't give the "warnings" too much thought. It's a fun and quick read.

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz

VAIN

Errrbody is talking about this book. I haven't read it yet, but I'm gonna go for it real soon. Seems like every day I see a new 5 star review for it.

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story

Dance Upon the Air

I struggled with this one. The few that I know of that you read, you didn't rate too highly. I chose a Nora Roberts from your Owned shelf. I'm not even sure if it really fits the catagory, but... it's the best I could come up with!

6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry

Seduction and Snacks

Had to throw in the one book on your TBR! This is a really funny read, I enjoyed it. Nothing super special, but I laughed out loud throughout the entire book.

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods

Cat Scratch Fever

Short and sexy read, with shifters. It was my first Jodi Redford book, but won't be my last. The ending was ridiculously abrupt, but it's fun.

8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold

Speaker for the Dead

I am seriously stretching with this one, but it instantly came to mind when I started looking at your favorite books and I knew I had to squeeze it in here somewhere. It's the "sequel" to Ender's Game, however it's a completely different story. And happens to be one of my all-time favorite novels. Of course, it's not a romance. But everything else I chose for you was, so I'm allowed this one. I hope! It looks like you'd appreciate it. Not everyone does, but I call those people loonies.

[Fran, Moderator]

Hi Isabella!

I hope you find something here you like, I tried to mix it up between what was on your tbr and some new to you :)

1. Virginal Character-
The Bride- on your tbr, loved it!
Completely Smitten- this is such a sweet, cute, gem of a romance- I smiled through the whole thing.
2. New Author-
On Dublin Street- Samantha Young. I recently read this and enjoyed it.

3. Red Hot Cover-


4. Red Hot Buzz-
Slammed
Fifty Shades of Grey-on your tbr, loved it
The Fault in Our Stars- also on your tbr, ripped my heart out but a must read. still haven't gotten over it.


5.Friends to Lovers- 3 romantic,fun,sexy reads- loved them :)

10 Ways To Steal Your Lover
Sugar and Spice
The Naughty List

6.Prostitute-
Curio- a very different twist on this genre, and so good.
Food Industry- Tempt Me, Taste Me, Touch Me- 3 friends go to wine country for a girls trip and each find love- three separate stories that are so much fun and sexy too.

7.Hunky outdoorsman or woodsy setting- 2 faves of mine-
Lumberjack In Love
And One Last Thing ...

8.Bad Boy Hero- I have recently discovered Kristen Ashely and these are two of my fave bad boys...
Knight
Motorcycle Man (can be read as a stand-alone)

[Renee]

Penney wrote: "Oh Renee, we're gonna have fun! Me likey your shelves gf. I don't know how I'll find 4 new-to-you books since almost everything I want to pick is already on your TBR, but that'll be the fun part ..."

Yay!! I'm down for anything, girl! If you think it's good, throw it on there. Love trying new stuff :-)

(I should copy you, my kitchen is a wreck. Ugh!)

[Fran, Moderator]

Breann wrote: "Fran wrote: "Breann wrote: "Hi Fran! Loved looking through your shelves, we have very similar tastes :) Hope you find something you like!

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character: To Tame ..."

Great, I can start at the beginning of the month :)

[Penney]

Ok Renee, I had no problem finding books to recommend to you, but finding the right ones to fit in the right categories was a bit of a challenge. In other words, I had a lot of fun! For each category, you get one book from your TBR and one that's new to you. So here we go...

"Poppin' Yo Cherry' Month"...
1. Virginal Characters: A Hunger Like No Other, I love this series and although GR says this is book 2, it's not. The Warlord Wants Forever is actually a prequel and written after A Hunger like No Other. Personally I think reading TWWF first will ruin any surprises in this one. So read this one first...*rant over*
You may also like Warprize. I read it a few years ago and I still remember it well and I still love it. Must've been good :)

2. New Author: The Art of Submission by Ella Dominguez, I have this on my list for next month's reading challenge. Any interest in a buddy read?
For something totally new, try Raphael by D.B. Reynolds. Strong Alpha male with equally strong alpha female.


Red, The Color Of Passion and Desire...
3. Red Hot Cover: Wicked Ties, everything about this book is red hot.
Another hot book that I hold fond memories for is Midnight Man. The first sex scene...yum!

4. Red Hot Buzz: I just read Angelfall at the beginning of this month and LOVED it! I really think you will too.
Another book on my agenda for February is Easy. Another buddyread perhaps....?


Sweet Cherry, Tart Cherry...
5. Sweet ~ Friends to Lovers: Wallbanger, I just read and really enjoyed it. It's classified as erotica, but I wouldn't call it that. Sexy and sweet read.
If you want sexy, sweet and heartbreaking erotica, try The Reluctant Dom. Awesome read!

6. Tart ~ Food: Ok, so I totally stretched things to fit this book in. Comfort Food has nothing at all to do with food (and I'm seriously pushing the romance thing), but at least the word "food" is in the title. It's disturbing subject matter, but if you liked Captive In The Dark, then I think you'll get this one as well.
Now, for a 180, try The Lost Recipe for Happiness, a surprisingly good read :)


George Washington and that darn cherry tree...
7. Hunky Outdoorsman Living in the Woods: Lumberjack In Love, I haven't read it yet, but it's on my tbr as well.
Something I know for sure is a fun read...How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf. I've become a huge Molly Harper fan since reading it.

8. Bad Boy Heros: I love me a good "bad boy", so here are two very different ones. Beautiful Disaster, angst, angst and more angst. Don't go by my rating though. If I weren't the mother of impressionable teenage girls, it would've been higher.
Since you're clearly not adverse to m/m reads, try Warrior's Cross for a completely different, but equally yummy bad boy.


I hope you find some great choices here. Happy Reading!

[Breann]

Sandy wrote: Let me know when you'd like to start Mr. McBride. I will set up a thread for us."

Could we plan for the middle of the month? Maybe around the 11th?

[Jim son of Jim (formerly PhotoJim)]

Penney, did I really just see you suggest someone read a book #2 before a book #1? Apparently my neck of the woods isn't the only place that has frozen over. :)

[Penney]

LOL! No, just the opposite. GR got it wrong. Wrong I tell you! Don't get me started...

[SandyC]

Breann wrote: "Sandy wrote: Let me know when you'd like to start Mr. McBride. I will set up a thread for us."

Could we plan for the middle of the month? Maybe around the 11th?"

Sounds good!

[Jim son of Jim (formerly PhotoJim)]

Renee,
thank you so much for the picks. I don't know yet which I will read. I did read the Orson Scott Card years ago but didn't add it to my lists. 30 years of backlog before joining Goodreads was just too much to add. I read the first three books in the Ender Saga. I believe all three were released as one volume and was a Science Fiction Book Club book of the month selection somewhere about 1990 or thereabouts. Maybe it is time to revisit some of these older SF classics.

I'm not sure which book I'll read for certain yet but I'll probably have to read the only book on my TBR at some point so this will probably be the month. We'll see what else I get done.

Thank you again for some great picks.

[Dee]

Makenzie wrote: "Dee....I think this has been more a challenge of me finding books you haven't read! Haha. Finding books not on your list was an even greater challenge, but I think I was able to find a few. :) Thi..."

well done, Makenzie - I'm very impressed - my bookshelves aren't for the faint-hearted. I had read the MB one you recommended (just never gave it a rating) and I had read Rafe mackade pre-GR, so it never made it to my shelves - but bravo - I honestly have no idea what of the other ones I am going to read right now

[Breann]

Ok, so I totally stretched things to fit this book in. Comfort Food has nothing at all to do with food (and I'm seriously pushing the romance thing), but at least the word "food" is in the title.

Penney, if I recall, there are some very important scenes having to do with chicken noodle soup. :)

Oh, and I totally agree with you about A Hunger Like No Other!

[Fran, Moderator]

Breann wrote: "Ok, so I totally stretched things to fit this book in. Comfort Food has nothing at all to do with food (and I'm seriously pushing the romance thing), but at least the word "food" is in the title.
..."

Breann,
I was going to say the same thing about the chicken noodle soup to Penney ;)

[Regina]

YZ

I hope you like my recs for you.

1. Virginal Character - Their Virgin Captive

2. New Author Easy it´s a beautiful story!

3. Red Hot Cover: Backstage Pass or Wallbanger

4. Red Hot Buzz -
Someone to Love - very good read!

5. Friends to Lover - Hot in Here

6. Prostitute as Main Character - A 21st Century Courtesan - it´s a very intense and emotional read.

7. wilderness/woods: Stolen or Lone Wolf

8. Bad Boy Hero - Sword of Darkness

If you want any of them changed, let me know.

Happy reading

[Penney]

Thank you both counts Breann :)

[Elke]

Kami,

I will have your picks up by tomorrow! :)

[Christina]

Hi Gea

Here are your picks. Please let me know if you don't see something you like. You seem to have a diverse taste in books, so I recommended a wide range of books for you to chose from.

1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character
Zane's Redemption by Tina Folsom. I know that this is not the first in the series, but you don't have to read these in order. I recently finished this book and loved it.
His Untamed Innocent by Sara Craven

2. Recommend a New Author
Shadow's Claim by Kresley Cole. I recently read and loved this book as well.
First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones. One of my more recent favorites. It made me laugh out loud and there were a few sparks in the book as well.
Divergent by Veronica Roth. This isn't a romance, but was a great book that I couldn't put down as well.

3. Hot
The Darkest Night by Gena Showalter
or

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz
Bared to You by Sylvia Day
Slammed by Colleen Hoover (I personally have been waiting to fit this one in).

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story
The Next Always by Nora Roberts. This was one of my favorites.

6. Tart
Seven Years to Sin by Sylvia Day. I have not read this one, but have heard great things about it.
Delicious by Susan Mallery. I have not read this one either, but I have read some of her other books and enjoyed them.

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods
How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf
The Guardian

8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood...
Something About You
Nauti Dreams

I hope that you find something that you like. If you don't, please let me know and I can do some repicks for you.

[Katie]

Hey Ty! Since I read mainly m/m, I decided to give you an m/f pick (from your shelves, if possible) and an m/m pick. I don't know if you're interested or curious about m/m, but these are a few of my favorites. :)

1. Virginal Character

Tempt Me at Twilight - I love Lisa Kleypas! This book just continues a great series.
I'll Be Your Drill, Soldier - An awful cover and an even more awful title. I admit it. However, this is one of, if not my favorite m/m book EVER. If you're at all willing to give m/m a try, I really suggest you go for this one!

2. New Author

The Raven Prince - Elizabeth Hoyt likes to write about some atypical character types. Her characters aren't always the most physically attractive, but she makes them hot anyway.
Latakia - My god...I just read this one a couple days ago and it was incredible. Easily the best book I've read so far this year. It's only $2.99, which is ridiculous. I have it to lend on kindle if you're interested.

3. Red Hot Cover

- Maya Banks always seems to get some smokin' hot covers, huh?
- Action, action, action! This is has been described as being like watching an Indiana Jones movie full of sexy gay men.

4. Red Hot Buzz

Hard to Love - This is the most recently released book on your TBR.
Bear, Otter, and the Kid - This book has gotten a lot of buzz in the m/m community and it's very well deserved! It's a great book...funny, too.

5. Friends to Lovers

The Courage to Love - A sexy m/m/f historical. I found this one when I discovered this one on my way from m/f/m to m/m/f to m/m.
Almost Like Being in Love - This book is amazing. Hilarious and non-explicit. Maybe a good book to ease your way into m/m with. While it's available as an ebook, I strongly suggest you purchase the paperback since it's an epistolary novel. Definitely worth it!

6. Prostitute/Food Industry

Exquisite - Food Industry
More Than Make-Believe - A really nice gay for you story.

7. Outdoorsman/Wilderness

Anew - Well, the blurb says she wakes up in the woods. Lol...past that I've got nothing.
Luck in the Shadows - This is a fantasy book in the strictest sense of the word. It has veiled m/m references, but nothing explicit and it's definitely not the main focus of the story. Another good one for dipping your toe in the m/m pool.

8. Bad Boy Hero

Star Crossed - Kele Moon's books are always hot. Haven't read this one yet, but an MMA fighter? How much more of a bad boy could you get?
Zero at the Bone - This was my second m/m ever and still one of my favorites.

I hope you find something good in here! If not, let me know and I'll jump back into your TBR to find something better. :)

[Nikki]

Laura Here are my picks for you! Hope you find something you'll like! I'm happy to repick if you need me to. :) Happy Reading!


1. Recommend a Romance with a virginal character: Sheltered by Charlotte Stein looks really good!

2. Recommend a New Author: Candy Houses by Shiloh Walker. I noticed you have a few of her books on your TBR and this is a really good series! Great twists on the classic fairy tales!

3. Choose a Romance with a Red Hot cover: Either When You Dare by Lori Foster, which is the start to a really great series! Or Devil Without a Cause by Terri Garey just because... That cover is HOT! :)

4. Recommend a title that has been getting some Red Hot Buzz: There were several books that came to mind when I saw this category... I'll try to limit myself though ;) First up is On Dublin Street by Samantha Young, Very good!! Also Easy by Tammara Webber is a really good YA/ NA!! And just cause... I've heard really good things about Hopeless by Colleen Hoover.

5. Sweet- Recommend a Friends to Lovers story: I also had a few come to mind with this one... From your tbr, The Vincent Boys by Abbi Glines is a really sweet read that has a great sequel! Or Unleashed by Cherrie Lynn which is a little hotter than the other and the first in a series and all are really good!

6. Tart- Choose a title with a prostitute as a main character, or a book set in the food industry: From both our tbr's :) Too Hot To Touch by Louisa Edwards

7. Recommend a Romance with a hunky, outdoorsman hero or a book set in the wilderness/woods: The Gamble by Kristen Ashley is amazing! It's a great first KA book!

8. Choose a title with a bad boy hero with a heart of gold. Maybe he is just misunderstood.... Mystery Man is another really good Kristen Ashley book!