Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion
2013 Challenge Archive
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2013 September Pick It For Me! Challenge
I have an updated sign ups list through here.
Breann wrote: "A little over 2 hours! But who's counting?(certainly not Ty :D)"
I'm just trying to stay awake - and I live on the west coast!!!
yeah staying awake ain't happening...i got a 6 mile run in the am...its pretty pathetic when 6am is sleeping in
Dee wrote: "yeah staying awake ain't happening...i got a 6 mile run in the am...its pretty pathetic when 6am is sleeping in"I'm sorry!
LOL... are we having a competition to see who can post first? LOL
I guarantee I'd lose that contest! :D
Crystal wrote: "LOL... are we having a competition to see who can post first? LOL"Won't be me! I would rather take my time with my picks! Not that I would be fast tonight either way!
LOL! No, some of us just stalk this thread to see who we pick for and the rules. Which I already know. BWAHAHA!
MountainKat wrote: "Crystal wrote: "LOL... are we having a competition to see who can post first? LOL"Won't be me! I would rather take my time with my picks!"
Me, too!
MountainKat wrote: "Crystal wrote: "LOL... are we having a competition to see who can post first? LOL"Won't be me! I would rather take my time with my picks!"
Yes, I agree... I made my pics over the last 3 days and I'm hoping that she doesn't mix the order up... :-)
Breann wrote: "Oh I did! :D"Oh man! Well, I learned my lesson. LOL
Yeah, they get mixed up with a super secret randomizer formula. ^_^
lol Crystal! the order is never final until the randomizer spins it final combo ;)
Breann wrote: "Yeah, they get mixed up with a super secret randomizer formula. ^_^":-)... you know, I thought to myself not to do it, that the names might get shuffled, but then I looked back through a couple of post and realized that they didn't. You know... this is totally normal for me! LOL... I should listen to that voice in my head sometimes. chuckle.
Sign ups closedBe back with pairs & rules shortly!
Pairs & rules are up!You should have your picks done by the 26th but remember don't start reading until the 1st!!
Awesome. Elkie, I went to look at your books, but you're set to Private and I can't view anything?
Crystal wrote: "Awesome. Elkie, I went to look at your books, but you're set to Private and I can't view anything?"
You'll need to send her a friend request
Breann wrote: "Crystal wrote: "Awesome. Elkie, I went to look at your books, but you're set to Private and I can't view anything?"
You'll need to send her a friend request"
Okay.
Susan A, I'm looking at your shelves and will get your picks up tomorrow! (And I don't have a problem picking M/M!)
Renee wrote: "Oooohhh, awesome categories Breann!!!"Thanks!
Hi NadineHere are your pics!
The first two are from your preferred shelf, the third pick is something new.
Hope you find something you like.
Fire: Fire people are impassioned and devoted lovers, and may tend toward flamboyant romantic gestures. Pick a book with a strong and/or stubborn character, someone who is determined to end up with The One and doesn’t take no for an answer. Or choose a book with a red, yellow or orange cover or with fire on the cover.
Water: Romance comes naturally to Water people; they give and receive love easily. Recommend a book that has a sweet and loving story. Or pick a book with a dark blue cover or one that has water on the cover.
Air: Since commitment doesn't come naturally to Air they can have difficulty in relationships. Choose an angsty and/or emotional book. Or recommend a book with a white or light blue cover or a book with a blue sky on the cover.
Earth: The Earth person commits readily, they don’t experience much conflict when choosing to commit, and may not see it as having negative aspects. Recommend a book with little conflict, something light and easy. Or a book with a brown or green cover or a book with any landscape on the cover.
Hi Zara! Wow, I don't know if I've ever had a more difficult time picking. We really don't have much in common so a lot of these are just a shot in the dark (they are from your shelf though!) I really hope you find something to enjoy!Fire:
The Mating (TBR) One I've read! This is a great series, especially for free.
Ladies' Night (TBR)
Darkfever This category totally says 'alpha hero' to me and nobody does alpha quite like Jericho Barrons. It's urban fantasy so it might be something new for you.
Water:
Barefoot Season (TBR)
On Dublin Street I loved this book. It seems to be a local favorite around here :)
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie This is one of my favorite historical romances. Ian is in a class by himself.
Air:
This Tangled Thing Called Love (TBR)
The Bridal Veil (TBR)
Unveiled Another fabulous historical romance series.
Earth:
Stealing Jenny (TBR)
First Grave on the Right This series is great fun! I love Charley and her shenanigans.
The Ghost on My Couch I had to throw one M/M in there. I recently read this and OMG, so fantastic.
I really hope you find something you like in these picks!
Crystal...approved! Pam, will have your picks up tomorrow!
FOR YOU, REGINA P I hope you find a book here that you are excited to read. I have read all except the Sydney Croft book and I plan to read it this month.
FIRE:
New to you:
(I loved this story. It is an adult romance dystopian novel. It is well written, a great story, and it had a H/h with strong/stubborn characters)TBR:
(this one is also on my favorites shelf. Well written, quite angsty, great love and sex scenes. But the emotional story was really what pulls you in)WATER:
New to you:
( you have Wallflowers book 1 on your TBR, but this series precedes that one. Lisa Kleypas is one of my favorite authors. She does Historical romances like no other. I highly recommend this book. Well written, great characters and great story)TBR:
(I actually finished book 1 a couple of days ago. I enjoyed Riding the Storm and planned on reading this one this week though I hadn’t bought it yet. It is sexy, but I like how the sex is tied into the character’s “gifts” so it’s not just frivolous sex)AIR:
New to you:
(If you want angsty, this book rivals On Dublin Street for Angsty. This book is more YA since the characters are in their first year in college, whereas on Dublin Street, they are futher along in their education. I loved the story and the characters were compelling)TBR:
(This one was angsty because of the M/m story, then the fact they were running from just about everyone. I really enjoyed the emotional walls slowly crumbling.)EARTH:
New to you:
(I think this is one of the best books I have read in 2013. A very clean romance, well written, so sweet and endearing. If you love HEA’s, this one is for you)TBR:
(one of the funniest, lightest romances I have read. People on the train were looking at me all weird because I would just bust out laughing. I am glad they didn’t call the security and escort me off the train because I am sure I seemed like a cackling crackhead or something. Very entertaining book)
PIFM RulesPlease choose TWO books for each category to recommend. Please give at least 4 books from their TBR and 4 books that are new to them. If your pickee has listed a preferred shelf, please make sure to use that shelf.
FOR BRE
Fire: Fire people are impassioned and devoted lovers, and may tend toward flamboyant romantic gestures. Pick a book with a strong and/or stubborn character, someone who is determined to end up with The One and doesn’t take no for an answer. Or choose a book with a red, yellow or orange cover or with fire on the cover.
The Devil's Metal (Devils #1)
by Karina Halle or
Wanderlust
by Skye Warren or
The Lonely (The Lonely #1)
by Tara Brown
Water: Romance comes naturally to Water people; they give and receive love easily. Recommend a book that has a sweet and loving story. Or pick a book with a dark blue cover or one that has water on the cover.
Talania — A Trip Down Memory Lane (Lost love #1)
by Crystal Spears or
On the Island (On the Island #1)
by Tracey Garvis-Graves
Air: Since commitment doesn't come naturally to Air they can have difficulty in relationships. Choose an angsty and/or emotional book. Or recommend a book with a white or light blue cover or a book with a blue sky on the cover.
Sweet Temptation (Sweet #1)
by Angel Steel or
Anna and the French Kiss (Anna and the French Kiss #1) by Stephanie Perkins or
Giving Chase (Chase Brothers #1)
by Lauren Dane
Earth: The Earth person commits readily, they don’t experience much conflict when choosing to commit, and may not see it as having negative aspects. Recommend a book with little conflict, something light and easy. Or a book with a brown or green cover or a book with any landscape on the cover.
Attachments
by Rainbow Rowell or
Believe It or Not
by Tawna Fenske or
A Summer in Sonoma
by Robyn Carr
Hi, Natalie! Comparing our books, you and I don't have too much in common so I really hope that you find something here that you'll like. :)Fire:
: I haven't read this yet, though it's on my TBR, but going off reviews alone, this woman will do anything to get what she wants. [New to You]
: I would say that Dean Holder is an amazingly strong/stubborn (and wonderful character) who is determined to be with Sky. [TBR]Water:
: Dark blue cover. [TBR]
: I saw that there's no M/M romance on your shelves, but if you're willing to give it a try, then this is a great one to start off with because it really is sweet and there's no sex front or backstage. [New to You]Air:
: Sounds pretty angsty/emotional to me. [TBR]
: Angsty. Emotional. Angsty. Emotional. [New to You]Earth:
: A nice enjoyable read. No angst. [New to You]
: Landscape-y cover. [TBR]Happy reading!
LOL, Runell! You and I both recommended the same one M/M book. Great minds ^_^
Breann wrote: "LOL, Runell! You and I both recommended the same one M/M book. Great minds ^_^"I concur. :D
Hey Roxy! I'll have your picks up when I get my hands on a computer! :)
Hi Fran!I hope you find something you like. I tried to do a mix to give you a lot of options. It was actually harder to find new books for you lol. *crosses fingers*
Fire:
Private Practice (TBR)- I really enjoyed this one.
The Opportunist (TBR)- I haven’t read this yet but it’s been popping up a lot lately.
Just One of the Guys (NEW)- One of my favorite authors.
Water:
Easy (TBR)- I really enjoyed this sweet NA romance.
Hot Summer Nights (TBR)- It has water on the cover . *score
Seducing Cinderella (NEW)- Blue cover and sweet story.
Air:
The Siren (TBR)- This series is a MUST read. I’m always pushing it because it will take you by surprise and blow your socks off.
The Reluctant Dom (TBR)- Excellent book and definitely emotional.
Chase in Shadow (NEW)- I haven’t been able to get to this one yet but it looks good and tissue worthy.
Earth:
The Melody Thief (TBR)- Nice view on the cover :)
Sins & Needles (TBR)- I’ve seen this come up a lot lately and it has a green cover.
Dragon Actually (NEW)- A.K.A. Shelly Laurenston so it’s light, sexy and funny!
Hi, Kami ! Here are my picks for you. I hope you find something you like!
Fire:
Water:
Air:
Earth:
Elke, It was fun looking through your books. We actually have 100 books in common! This is my first time doing this Challenge so I'm a little nervous. I hope you're happy with your picks. The folder you asked me to choose from had 1 book so the other's I chose from your TBR. I hope that is okay. If you need me to repick for you, please let me know. I look forward to hearing what you choose.
Fire: Fire people are impassioned and devoted lovers, and may tend toward flamboyant romantic gestures. Pick a book with a strong and/or stubborn character, someone who is determined to end up with The One and doesn’t take no for an answer. Or choose a book with a red, yellow or orange cover or with fire on the cover.
TBR -
He's Very Stubborn. You read the first 2 books in this series and I think you will enjoy this one. Me –
– Strong/Stubborn… both characters fall into that category at different parts of the story. And, I think this is an awesome book that everyone should experience. 5 StarsMe –
Anytime I can recommend this book, I will… She is the one who won't take NO for an answer. And, she is great. This has some super hot scenes... Did I say it has super hot scenes? Well, it does. 5 StarsWater: Romance comes naturally to Water people; they give and receive love easily. Recommend a book that has a sweet and loving story. Or pick a book with a dark blue cover or one that has water on the cover.
TBR -
Me –
ok... this is considered a Christian Romance, but there isn't a lot of religious talk. There is a hint of religion. It is such a sweet, fun story and I thought it was awesome. There is a mystery and some very bad people who aren't very nice, but the love story itself is really sweet and so very well done. 5 StarsAir: Since commitment doesn't come naturally to Air they can have difficulty in relationships. Choose an angsty and/or emotional book. Or recommend a book with a white or light blue cover or a book with a blue sky on the cover.
On-Deck -
Me -
- This definitely falls into the "Emotional Book" category. This book is crazy, wicked, scary, sweet, brutal, loving... it's everything all wrapped up in one. If you read, be prepared to be traumatized (in a good kinda way). 5 StarsMe –
This is a classic. I loved this book! It was so well written and I think it is a MUST read. 5 StarsMe –
- ok, it's not all that emotional.. it falls into this category because it's an awesome book that just happens to have a white cover. LOL GREAT Book... but, I love my Scotsmen. 5 Stars. Earth: The Earth person commits readily, they don’t experience much conflict when choosing to commit, and may not see it as having negative aspects. Recommend a book with little conflict, something light and easy. Or a book with a brown or green cover or a book with any landscape on the cover.
TBR -
Me -
- A Green cover with a hot Viking. What's not to love. 5 stars.
Hi Crystal! I had way too much fun working on your picks…we have lots in common, but it also looks like you’ve never read several of my favorite authors. That means I went a little crazy! :D
Overall half of the picks are new to you and half come from either your preferred shelf or your to read shelf, with at least one pick in each category from your preferred shelf. Most of the picks are based on color (because it’s easier and I’m half brain-dead tonight), but a few are based on the other criteria. I hope you find something that looks good to you!
Fire:
Surrender – I read this a year or two ago and loved it! Now that it’s been released in audio I’m looking forward to listening to it sometime soon.
Backstage Pass – Definitely hot enough to qualify for the Fire category! :D
No Place to Run – I love this series, but since I’m more than a little obsessed about reading books in order and it doesn’t look like you’ve read the first one, I had to recommend it below!
Virgin River – One of my all-time favorite feel-good series.
Water:
The Darkest Hour – First book in the series, and possibly (but not definitely) my favorite.
Dragonfly in Amber – Gotta love Jaime and Claire!
One Reckless Summer – Emotional, gut-wrenching, and just plain wonderful!
Comanche Moon – Catherine Anderson writes some of the most emotional love stories I’ve ever read, and this is one of my favorites.
Air:
A Rogue by Any Other Name – Sarah MacLean is an auto-buy for me…if you haven’t read her first series, by all means, check it out!
Then Came You – Lisa Kleypas…need I say more?
Simply Irresistible – The first in another feel-good series, by one of my favorite authors.
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie – Great series, and Lord Ian is so special...
Earth:
The Gamble – The only thing I’ve ever read by Kristin Ashley, but I loved it and really need to get back to her stuff!
Exclusively Yours – Heartwarming and funny, the Kowalski family is just great.
How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf – Light-hearted and fun, with lots of snarky humor.
Dragon Bound – I put this off for a long time, and once I read it I kicked myself for waiting so long…loved it!
Happy reading!
thank you. I will go with Beautiful Darkness, which I already have so I will read it first. Then Time between Us and Providence.
Hi BeccaHere are your picks, some from your TBR and some new. I hope you find something you'd like to read!
Fire: Dragon Bound (new - strong and stubborn hero) or Poison Study (TBR) or The Glass Lake (new), both with yellowish covers
Water: On the Island (TBR - water on the cover, awesome book) or Angelfall (TBR - dark blue cover - I haven't read this one yet but my GR friends say its great) or Dead Until Dark (TBR - dark blue cover - I like this series very much)
Air: Honey Moon (new - angsty and emotional book) or Shiver (new - white and light blue cover)
Earth: The Mane Event (TBR - light, funny and sexy) or City of Bones (TBR - green cover) or Touch of Power (new - another great series by Maria V. Snyder)
Arena, here are your picks. I gave you half books from your TBR and half new books for you. There are 2 or 3 books from style you don't read but I added them anyway since I liked them and in case you'll be in mood for trying something new :) Fire
Burn by Linda Howard (TBR)
The Seduction of His Wife by Janet Chapman (TBR)
Just the Way You Are by Christina Dodd (new)
Water
Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens (TBR)
Never Seduce a Scot by Maya Banks (TBR)
Private Practice by Samanthe Beck (new)
Air
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini (TBR)
The Wedding by Julie Garwood (new)
Axel by Harper Sloan (new)
Earth
Born in Ice by Nora Roberts (TBR)
Desire by Amanda Quick (new)
Squeeze Play by Kate Angell (new)
Hey now. I totally did not count the hours [of course not]
Sassafrass!!
Not like I'm surprised, but we have very similar tastes, girl! Going through your shelves was so much fun, it was just hard to narrow all my picks down. So, lucky you, I'm gonna give you three for each. Hope you find something to enjoy! (I know you will... these are some pretty hot reads) ;-)
Fire:
In Flight by R.K. Lilley
A very sexy, dominant man is the reason this book was so much fun to read. Absolute scorcher from your "read-this-next" shelf.
Mystery Man by Kristen Ashley
A strong/stubborn charater book list is not complete without a little Kristen Ashley. Hot bikers, sexy alphas everywhere you look... need I say more?
Angelfall by Susan Ee
This is one that's new to you, since I didn't see it anywhere on your shelves. I guess it's considered YA (no sexy scenes here), but it's one of my favorite reads of the year. I also found it through PIFM, so I thought I would pass on to you. Absolutely wonderful book, if you're in the mood for a little dystopia.
Water:
Leave Me Breathless by Cherrie Lynn
Oh, GOD this book! Browsing your shelves, I can say that there is no way you won't love it. Even if it wasn't on your "read-this-next" shelf, I would have picked it for you.
Stars & Stripes by Abigail Roux
Well, lookie here. Your next book in the Cut & Run series happens to be the one that I JUST finished. This was the sweetest Ty/Zane story of them all, so I had to add it!
Pleasure Unbound by Larissa Ione
A little PNR, a lotta hot sex... here is one that isn't on your shelves, but definitely should be.
Air:
Captive in the Dark by C.J. Roberts
You want angst, emotion, and a whole lot of intriguing dark story? This is it, right here. Once again, another book that I would have rec'd, even if it wasn't on your shelf of choice.
Claimed by Evangeline Anderson
I wasn't sure where to put this one, but I saw it on your TBR and had to add it. This series is so much fun! Besides the fact that Ms. Anderson writes such HOT scenes, this book will definitely entertain you. I guess you can say it's a bit angsty, since the main character doesn't want to be where she is. But... more than anything, I just wanted to rec it.
Unholy Ghosts by Stacia Kane
I guess my "new to you" picks have a bit of a theme, here. I just finished reading this series, and I thought it was amazing. It's not for everyone (very angsty, lots of down-on-their-luck characters). But if you're looking for a new series, you might want to check this one out. Stacia Kane created an amazing, unique world with the Downside Ghosts series.
Earth:
Compromising Positions by Jenna Bayley-Burke
This would be the catagory I know the least about, honestly. But I read this one a while back and remember enjoying it. I think it was a pretty sweet story, and definitely a book on your prefered shelf that fits the bill.
Lumberjack In Love by Penny Watson
Here is another book that I found through PIFM. Holy Hotness, this one was good. Quick & easy read, as well.
Firsts by Rosalie Stanton
Girl, try this author out for a very sexy read.
Hi, Nikita.Hope you like my recs for you.
Fire:
Line of Scrimmage(TBR)- great read
Dark Lover(TBR) - I just love this serie!
The Princess and the Porn Star(New to you) - just finished this book and thought it is really good.
Water:
Cowboy Heat(TBR)- just love the H/h interaction.
Maid for Love (TBR)
Life Lessons(New to you) - I just love Tony and Mac!!!
Air:
The Reluctant Dom(TRB) - this is a beautiful story of love and friendship.
Night Pleasures(TBR) - saw you read the first in this serie
Flowers from the Storm(New to you) - this is such a great read!
Earth:
Once and Always(TRB) - Judith is one of my fav authors
Passion(TBR)- just love this story!
Love Comes Silently (New to you) - such a good story!
Hi Ty!I am away right now bringing my oldest back to college but I promise to have your picks done later tonight. I'm sorry for the wait!
Nichole, thanks so much for the awesome picks! I am only able to glance at the list on my phone right now but they look great. I will go through them more thoroughly tonight and let you know which ones I will try and get to. At first glance I want to read them all!
Fran wrote: "Hi Ty!I am away right now bringing my oldest back to college but I promise to have your picks done later tonight. I'm sorry for the wait!
Nichole, thanks so much for the awesome picks! I am onl..."
No worries! I can't wait to see what you pick.
And don't cry too much when you say bye to your baby. :)
Hi Ruth Ann! Great seeing your stack of books, which we have a log in common! Your TBR is massive! Plus, how could you go wrong with Gandy as your pic? nom nom noms. Hope you like your picks - if you need me to repick some choices, let me know!Fire:
TBR: Midnight Angel - strong, independent female lead. I liked this book, but it's a great lead-in to the sequel, Prince of Dreams, which I freakin' LOVED.
NEW: Something Like Summer - m/m, great book. was a previous PIFM buddy read for me (and Lacy!). We both thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Water:
NEW: He Loves Lucy - I rec this book EVERY month on PIFM. Really, I do. It's that sweet and great. :D
TBR: Mackenzie's Mountain - this is a CLASSIC. and must read for all true romance fans.
Air:
TBR: The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie - omgosh, great book. A different type of hero that keeps you glued to the pages. The ensuring series is also great.
NEW: The Fault in Our Stars - extreme angst. I noticed you don't have a lot of YA in your books, but this kinda sorta transcends that genre. I was literally weeping in a corner after this one...
Earth:
TBR: Playing for Keeps - not only is this light and funny, but it fits the monthly reading challenge for September :D
NEW: A Matter of Class - very short read, but wonderful
extra credit
Couldn't really fit these anywhere but I HAD to rec, all of which are on your TBR.
First Grave on the Right - GET THEE TO THIS right now!
To Die For - If you ever had an inner cheerleader monologue, this is the book for you. Linda Howard and humor? Say it ain't so...
Rock Chick - everyone needs to get on board the KA train
Hi Elizabeth, I really enjoyed reviewing your shelves! You are a very diverse reader! Here are your picks, I hope you find something you enjoy!
Fire:
- Gabriel's Inferno (TBR) - strong characters Excellent Read
- Another Man's Bride (New To You)
- The Mighty Storm (New to You ) - Excellent Book! 2nd book came out last week.
Water:
Heaven and Hell - (TBR)
The Lady and the Laird - (New to You)
Ashes on the Waves - (New to You) -(New Paranormal Romance)
Air:
Taking Shots - (TBR) - White Cover -(I really enjoyed this series)
Avoiding Commitment - (New to you) - Fits this category perfectly! One of my favorite series.
Letters from Skye - (New to you)
Earth:
Flowers from the Storm - (TBR) - I have 4 friends that have read this book all except one gave it 5 stars, with the other rating being a 4 star
Forgotten Sins - (New to You) - New Paranormal/Suspense Romance
Killing Sarai - (New to You) - Brown Cover - Romantic Suspense - I read reviews about this book and it's suppose to be really good. I have this on my list to read!
Hi CarlaSorry for the delay in getting your list to you. I've been fighting a nasty cold that my beautiful children decided they would share around. lol
I hope there's something from the selection that interests you. There are a few books which I think I will just have to add to my 'small' TBR list. lol
Fire
What French Women Know About Love, Sex and Other Matters of the Heart and Mind TBR (red cover)
When Autumn Leaves TBR (orange cover)
Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder TBR (yellow cover)
Water
Miss Julia Throws a Wedding or A Discovery of Witches both from TBR (dark blue cover
The Wife's Tale TBR (water on cover)
Twenties Girl TBR (sweet and loving)
Air
An Object of Beauty TBR (white cover)
My Sister's Keeper or The Midwife's Confession or The Heretic Queen emotional and angsty all New to You as far as I can tell
The Cinderella Pact TBR (light blue)
Secrets of Eden TBR (blue sky)
Earth
Confessions of a Shopaholic TBR (light & easy)
Calling Invisible Women New to You (little conflict) - this is also a very funny book
Making Toast TBR (green cover)
The Granville Sisters TBR (brown cover)
The Distant Hours TBR (landscape) - I didn't realise until I chose this that it is written by a new favourite author of mine, Kate Mortan.
Breann wrote: "Hi Zara! Wow, I don't know if I've ever had a more difficult time picking. We really don't have much in common so a lot of these are just a shot in the dark (they are from your shelf though!) I rea..."Thanks Breann.
My apologies for causing you difficulties with choosing. I love the picks you made though.
I think I'll start with This Tangled Thing Called Love as I also need it for another challenge I'm doing in September. Then if I have time I'll try another one. Not sure what one yet though.
Romance Readers Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
German Boy: A Child in War (other topics)Ladies' Night (other topics)
Once and Always (other topics)
Heaven and Hell (other topics)
The Mighty Storm (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Robyn Carr (other topics)Jill Shalvis (other topics)
J.R. Ward (other topics)
Kate Jacobs (other topics)
Barbara O'Neal (other topics)
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(certainly not Ty :D)