Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion
Archive - Pass The Parcel
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PtP - Not the Droids You're Looking For (8)
Totally understand!! I get confused between the challenges I am running! So, I'm sure to mess something up here too. 🤷🏻♀️ (ETA: Like I missed that there were two posts for you a couple of days apart simply because they both said Selection Post. 😂)Right now I keep checking for MPG Romance in the Amazing Race Challenge and that isn't a requirement. When I did the Bachelor Challenge over the summer, I initially kept forgetting to check it. 🤦🏻♀️
Finished my book will post the completion tomorrow :)
COMPLETION POSTWeek 2: Pub November 2019
Book: A Pebble for Lewis by Amy Bellows
149 pgs/GR
How it qualifies: Pub November 20, 2019
Read 9/13/20
Review: 3.5 Stars
This really was a quick, easy to read and adorable story.
Neither Todd nor Lewis fit the mold for their typical shifter types and friendship between polar bears and penguins. I loved that these two forged a friendship despite the fact that it went against both the penguin and polar bear shifter norms. Although most of it took place off page it set a great foundation for their relationship. Lewis who is a penguin has a sense of adventure that most penguins don't have and Todd longs for romance and a relationship when polar bears don't mate for life.
I also loved that Ansel became their biggest supporter and helped Lewis fit in with the other polar bears. He opened the doors and helped everyone accept Lewis and Todd together. He is an adorable character as well and I'm excited that the next book is about him.
It was also really sweet watching Todd try to honor all the Penguin traditions (even the ones Lewis didn't tell him about but that he researched.) I admit I'm not a fan of MPreg and the egg laying scene was not for me. Overall a really fun and sweet book. I would definitely read the next one.
Week 2 - November 2019 (Option 2)Best Man by Lily Morton
Read: (9/14)
Rating: ★★★★
While this isn't my favorite book by Lily Morton, I still very much enjoyed this story. Most of my reluctance with this one comes from the age gap and the sort of obsessing over it that seems to happen a fair bit in this one. I liked Zeb and Jesse's energies together, but the age gap seemed mostly irrelevant until Zeb would get stuck on it for a bit. Of course then again he did end up dating a prat for ages. Ugh, I really didn't understand what Zeb ever saw in his ex or why he would ever agree to have that idiot still in his life. Oh well, ultimately it led him to finally allowing Jesse into his life instead of holding him off at arms length.
I actually liked the fake boyfriend trope in this one. Zeb was kidding himself from the beginning if he didn't see where this one was headed. No more convenient excuse to keep Jesse at arms length. There was a ton of sass and lots of witty dialogue to keep me entertained. I loved watching Jesse wreck havoc at Zeb's ex's wedding weekend extravaganza. The eventual turmoil between these two was a little predictable and cliched, but I was happy for them to figure things out and move forward in their lives together. Jesse keeps Zeb on his toes and present in what's happening around him. He's more relaxed because of the energy Jesse brings into his life. Now of course I need Felix's book, but of course I have to wait for one more story in between.
Do new categories come out Friday or Saturday?
New call!Week 3
Option 1:
12. The Simpsons back catalogue is available for more of Bart, Homer, Marge, Lisa et al! ...Have you noticed how all the names are short? Even the writers' names are short - Matt, James, Dan, Al, Sam, Mike, John etc (Yes, I am conveniently leaving out a few names for the sake of this category ;)
*Read a book with an MC whose first name is less than 6 letters long.
Qualification must be quoted in the précis; please provide an extract. Nicknames will work.
Option 2:
Key date - 18 March 2020
A book on your team mates 'read' list AND rated at least 3 stars and read on or after the key date.
Option 3:
Pass
This can only be used once each 5 weeks. Only one team mate can use this option each week.
Week 1:
Read a book with an MC whose first name is less than 6 letters long.
Sweet Little Lies
Pages: 387 (Kindle Edition)
How it qualifies: MC is named Finn, from precis
Pub owner Finn O’Riley is six-foot-plus of hard-working hottie who always makes time for his friends.
Forgot to change the week 🤦
Selection PostWeek 3:
Read a book with an MC whose first name is less than 6 letters long.
Sweet Little Lies
Pages: 387 (Kindle Edition)
How it qualifies: MC is named Finn, from precis
Pub owner Finn O’Riley is six-foot-plus of hard-working hottie who always makes time for his friends.
So first name 5 letters or less, then? (Less than 6)
Eugenia wrote: "So first name 5 letters or less, then? (Less than 6)"Yes.
Thanks Courtney for posting! Got a little distracted this afternoon - tough day. I even forgot it was Friday for a little while.
Week 3: 12. The Simpsons back catalogue is available for more of Bart, Homer, Marge, Lisa et al! ...Have you noticed how all the names are short? Even the writers' names are short - Matt, James, Dan, Al, Sam, Mike, John etc (Yes, I am conveniently leaving out a few names for the sake of this category ;)Selection Post
Siren in Bloom by Sophie Oak; 283 p. per GRFrom precis: "For psychologist Leo Meyer, peace and comfort come through..."
Just updated the tracking and we are only missing Cathy's completion for Week 2 - doing good team!
Selection PostWeek 3:
Read a book with an MC whose first name is less than 6 letters long.
'Book: In the Wind
Pages: 206 (Kindle Edition)
How it qualifies: MC is named Sage, from precis
"They return to Holderson Manor to find that Sage has been abducted by a dangerous enemy from Lavender’s past."
Oh crap, didn't realize I didn't post my review! I'll do that tomorrow to catch up.
Selection PostWeek 3: #12 Option 1
Savage Awakening by JD Tyler
Pages: 323
How the book fits: MC's first name is 4 letters (Aric). From precis: "After a mission goes wrong, Aric Savage is taken prisoner."
For Option 1:Please make sure you include an excerpt from the precis (blurb) quoting your MC's name that is less than 6 letters.
*a lot of ppl are missing this little detail, so this will be posted in all teams
Completion PostWeek 3
Option 1
Sweet Little Lies
Rating: ★★★★
Review:
So, I'm being a bit generous with my rating on this one. If the whole thing had just been what happened with Finn and Pru, I definitely wouldn't have liked it as much, but I just loved all the side characters in this one. Eddie and Mrs. Winslow were a hoot, Thor was the cutest little dog ever, and I just loved Elle and Sean and Archer and Jake. So I upped the three-star romance to a four-star book.
The book starts with Pru going to O'Reillys bar to eat and check out the hot owner/bartender Finn. Pru is crushing pretty hard, but there's a "secret" that she thinks would keep them apart if he knew.
I don't know about you, but I really hate the ol' it's-a-super-big-deal-secret-but-actually-is-a-small-and-stupid-problem plot in romances. And this one is a doozy for how stupid it is for Finn to get angry over. I think the title of the book is pretty apt - it's a sweet story with a little lie as the main conflict.
While Finn is a very yummy hero, and I liked Pru's character a bunch, there just wasn't enough oomph in this story, so it felt kind of bland. Pru's big secret was actually something that proved what a good person she was, so Finn's over-the-top anger and breakup just seemed out of place. I definitely liked the characters more than the storyline in this one.
You definitely enjoyed that more than me! I gave it 2 stars.
Tracking updated again! Only missing Shelby and Eugenia's selection posts and already have Courtney's completion for Week 3. 😊Cathy, don't forget to post your completion for Week 2!!
Cathy M. wrote: "You definitely enjoyed that more than me! I gave it 2 stars."Honestly, it was like 99% the dog and Jake 😂. I searched the whole series, though, and it looks like he doesn't have his own book yet 😡
MountainKat wrote: "Tracking updated again! Only missing Shelby and Eugenia's selection posts and already have Courtney's completion for Week 3. 😊Cathy, don't forget to post your completion for Week 2!!"
Working on it now!
Courtney wrote: "Cathy M. wrote: "You definitely enjoyed that more than me! I gave it 2 stars."Honestly, it was like 99% the dog and Jake 😂. I searched the whole series, though, and it looks like he doesn't have ..."
Aww if you're patient I'm sure it will come out sooner or later!
Completion PostWeek 2: #2 Option 1
The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams
Rating: 4 Stars
Review:
After reading the premise and some of the reviews, I knew that I would love this one. Well, really liked it because boy did Thea make it hard to like her.
So the premise of a group of professional baseball players talking about historical romances to get pointers for their own lives - PRICELESS. There were so many funny moments around that! And Gavin, gah. I loved him so much! Granted, he made mistakes but there was just something so genuine about him, especially after learning more of his backstory. But geez, I pretty much hated Thea for almost the entire book. And don't even get me started on her sister.
If the heroine was more likable this definitely would've been a home run. But overall I think this was a pretty cute story. The premise alone was original enough to make this memorable!
Completion PostWeek 3: #12 Option 1
Savage Awakening by JD Tyler
Rating: 4 Stars
Review:
After Aric was captured in the previous book, I knew I had to get to this one as soon as possible as to not forget anything about the storyline. But I must've misunderstood something or remembered it incorrectly because going into this, I thought I was reading a redemption story. There's nothing like a good redemption story! Sorry to say that's not the case, but I'm glad on the other hand that I was wrong about him.
I liked Aric good enough, and I liked how tough and strong Rowan was though I thought it was a missed opportunity to use more of her Dreamwalking abilities besides the sex scenes with Aric. Honestly I zoned out on the sex scenes and just wanted to get back to the action/conspiracy. But I think what I like most about this series is everyone on the team and the overall series arc.
I've already "read" the next book in the series (which I think was my favorite so far) and plan to try to finish the series fairly quickly since they will be disappearing next month with Audible Escape. Hoping I like the rest of them as much (or more) as the first 3!
I already finished my week 3, but haven’t posted either post. Will do so soon—had a migraine weekend 🤯
Eugenia wrote: "I already finished my week 3, but haven’t posted either post. Will do so soon—had a migraine weekend 🤯"Hope you are feeling better! Migraines are the worst. ☹️
Week 3Option 1
Book: Fit to be Tied
Page numbers: 228
How Fits: MC: Miro - From Description: "Deputy US Marshals Miro Jones and Ian Doyle are now partners on and off the job..."
Weel 3 - MC: Short NameFit to be Tied by Mary Calmes
Read: (9/19)
Rating: ★★★★★
So yep, really do love Ian and Miro. They're just a great couple and I love their badassery. There entire stint in Arizona had me cracking up because, no just no. They really didn't belong in a group that dedicated to following the rules to the detriment of the job. Still this time around sure there are a number of bad guys to catch in various take downs and the like, but this one is all about the serial killer Miro put away who still has a jones for him. And of course he's escaped.
This wasn't an easy time for our guys, but it does bring them closer together and helps them get on the same page about a couple of things. I like that for once the guys actually talk about things and aren't just silent blocks of ice too "male" to use words. Sure they don't always agree, and it causes some arguments when it seems like they're on opposite ideas of some issues in their personal lives, but ultimately it allows them to get closer. Miro may be bound and determined to protect Ian from the psychopath after him, but Ian's determined to do the same.
Week 3: 12. The Simpsons back catalogue is available for more of Bart, Homer, Marge, Lisa et al! ...Have you noticed how all the names are short? Even the writers' names are short - Matt, James, Dan, Al, Sam, Mike, John etc (Yes, I am conveniently leaving out a few names for the sake of this category ;)Completion Post
Siren in Bloom by Sophie Oak; 283 p. per GRFrom precis: "For psychologist Leo Meyer, peace and comfort come through..."
Completed 9.22.2020 *4- Stars*
I've enjoyed this series, but didn't connect with this one as much. I can't put my finger on why, so it is probably just timing - this was not a good weekend, especially for women. Still enjoyable, just not as much as some in the series.
I listened to the audio of this with Ryan West and C.J. Bloom narrating. While I love Ryan West, I struggled more with C.J. Bloom in this one. Her male characters are just not good, her females are though. Her males either speak suuupppperrr sloooowwwwly (even at 1.5x) or sound like hicks.
Shelby wrote: "Week 3Option 1
Book: Fit to be Tied
Page numbers: 228
How Fits: MC: Miro
"Shelby, Jane has said that an excerpt from the precis is required in your posts for this task. Please edit - thanks!
Completion Post - Week 3
Book: In the Wind
Pages: 206
Date Read: 9/19
Rating: ★★★★
Review: This is book seven and I really don't think you can enjoy it without having read at least some of the previous books in the series.
I do so love Lavender! Sage hasn't been my favorite character and in fact I haven't particular liked him in the previous books. However, in this one I actually began to like Sage. He ended up being a lot tougher than I thought he could be and it seems he's listened/realized more about his husband then even thought he had. The issue for me has always been that Sage doesn't except Lavender for who he is but instead has this version of him (Jeremy) that isn't accurate and therefore the relationship seems a bit false. Lavender always has to pretend a bit to be what Sage wants him to be and that's a recipe for disaster. Finally in this book Sage starts to realize he can't separate Lavender from Jeremy that they are the same person and he needs to accept all sides of his husband. I even believed the way he came about the realization. Of course we get some really fun moments with Aiden helping in his unique way.
This is always an easy to read, fun series for me but truth be told I read it because I love Lavender and well there's quite a soft spot for Aiden and Lane as well. I'll definitely continue on to the next one in the series.
MountainKat wrote: "Shelby wrote: "Week 3Option 1
Book: Fit to be Tied
Page numbers: 228
How Fits: MC: Miro
"Shelby, Jane has said that an excerpt from the precis..."
Will do. Was half awake when I posted. Sorry.
Tracking updated! Only missing Eugenia's selection and completions for this week, but she has read her book. No rush Eugenia, just make sure you at least get the selection post done before the next announcement on Friday. Hope you are feeling better!! 😊Shelby, think I'm going to need to add that series to my pile!
MountainKat wrote: "Tracking updated! Only missing Eugenia's selection and completions for this week, but she has read her book. No rush Eugenia, just make sure you at least get the selection post done before the next..."I put it off forever myself as I'm about 50/50 on Mary Calmes. But I'm loving it so far.
NEW THEME!Jane's post with links
Week 4
Option 1:
7. There are a lot of 'classic' movies and serials on Disney+
* Read a 'classic' book from one of the following lists:
Great Romance Novels
I Don't Understand All That Fuss
Timeless MM romance
Teen Girl Classics
If you use Option 1, your book must be selected from one of these lists. Please QUOTE THE LIST and PLACE NUMBER on that list for qualification - a link is preferred but otherwise just type out the name.
Option 2:
Key date - 25 March 2020
A book on your team mates 'read' list AND rated at least 3 stars and read on or after the key date.
Option 3:
Pass
This can only be used once each 5 weeks. Only one team mate can use this option each week.
I'm having such a hard time deciding 🤣. When there are a lot of choices, I just end up adding a bunch to my TBR instead of picking just one 😂
Courtney wrote: "I'm having such a hard time deciding 🤣. When there are a lot of choices, I just end up adding a bunch to my TBR instead of picking just one 😂"LOL! I am probably using Option 2 again this week, haven't decided for sure what I'm reading though. I'm gone tomorrow, so will probably post my selection on Sunday.
I understand Eugenia has had to exit due to work loads in RL :( Sorry to see her go, but the team will just continue on as is.Good luck everyone!
Selection PostWeek 4: #7 Option 1
Better Than Friends by Lane Hayes
Pages: 216 Pages
How the book fits: #156 on Timeless M/M or Gay Romance
Selection PostWeek 4: #7 Option 1
Faith & Fidelity by Tere Michaels
Pages: 228
How it Fits: #11 on Timeless MM or Gay Romance List
Selection PostWeek 4:
Option 1:
7. There are a lot of 'classic' movies and serials on Disney+
* Read a 'classic' book from one of the following lists:
Great Romance Novels
I Don't Understand All That Fuss
Timeless MM romance
Teen Girl Classics
Someone to Love
Pages: 396 (Kindle Edition)
How it qualifies: Number 1018 on Great Romance Novels
Week 4: 7. There are a lot of 'classic' movies and serials on Disney+.Selection Post
Body and Soul by Jordan Castillo Price, 125 p. per GROption2: #3 in series, #11 in series on Shelby's read shelf, read 5.15.2020, rated 5 stars.
Week 4: 7. There are a lot of 'classic' movies and serials on Disney+.Completion Post
Body and Soul by Jordan Castillo Price, 125 p. per GROption2: #3 in series, #11 in series on Shelby's read shelf, read 5.15.2020, rated 5 stars.
Completed 9.28.2020 *4 Stars*
I'm enjoying this series and liked this book quite a bit. I do admit that I had to go back and relisten to the last hour or so of the last book because I couldn't even remember what happened! 🤦🏻♀️ This one had some sweet moments and some disturbing ones too, those weren't about the main characters thank goodness! I thought the ending was good and had a small twist of humor included.
I listened to the audio with Gomez Pugh narrating and enjoyed it too.
Shelby wrote: "Week 3Option 1
Book: In the Ruins
Page numbers: 356
How Fits: #250 on the Timeless MM or Gay Romance
"Please change this to Week 4. 😊
Tracking updated - yay! I wasn't sure when I was going to get this done...All selection posts are done, just need some more completions - still lots of time. 😊
I'm reading mine in-between Amazing Race calls, so it's taking me a little while to get through it 🤣. I am liking it, though. I always think Balogh does a good job creating the feeling of the time period.
I've only tried 1 book by Balogh a couple years ago. I remember liking it (& apparently 4 starred it). Not sure why I didn't read more...
Yeah, I do that, too. I've liked everything I've read by her, but for some reason I don't seek out her stuff a lot. She's one of those authors that I go to when I'm not in the mood for something in particular. Maybe the precis on her books just aren't as attention grabbing or something. I think her books are definitely more about character building than events or action. Meredith Duran is like that for me, too. Love her books, but I never get excited by the precis, so I end up only reading them when I'm not more interested in other books.
Romance Readers Reading Challenges
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Week 2: Pub November 2019
The Gentleman’s Guide to Getting Lucky by [author:Mackenzi Lee|7..."
Hi, no that was my completion and I simply forgot to change the header and add my read date. I get confused by the varied requirements for completion posts in all of the different challenges. Sorry for any confusion!