2010 April Monthly Challenge: Participants' Lists Thread

[Carolyn F.]

1. Awaiting the Moon
2. The Dead Travel Fast
3. For the Roses
4. Lily and the Major
5. Lover Enshrined
6. TBA
7. Veil of Midnight
8. Night Bites
9. Sugar Daddy
10. Rosemary and Rue

These may change. This was a hard challenge to find books for.

[Ashley]

Ok I'm gonna try this one! I'm doing eight all categories, since I just found out they can be from any genre... Is it ok that some of these are not just romance? I have some PNR mixed in? If that's not ok, I can try to change or do less categories. Thanks!

1. "A":A Great and Terrible Beauty
2. April Bday Celebrant from Sarah: The Book Thief
3. Iowa?? TBD
4. Flower: Undead and Unwed
5. Earth Day Reuse: Dead Witch Walking
6. Character Arts: Succubus Blues (Library Book pending hold)
7. Av. 4 Stars on Goodreads: Halfway to the Grave
8. Fantasy Romance: Kushiel's Dart
9. Goodreads Romance: Outlander
10. Readers Choice: Wuthering Heights

[Purple]

I'll second Carolyn F. this month really is a hard challenge to find books for.

I'll read

1. The Awakening
2. The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie, Sarah's Bookshelves04.09
3. SKIPPED
4. Dream a Little Dream 04.11
5. SKIPPED
6. This Heart of Mine 04.19
7. The Ladys Tutor 04.10
8. Fired Up
9. Once and Always 04.14
10. Cross Country 04.07

[Tracy]

I'm planning to start with 8 - If I can fit a book into the other two categories I'll add to my current list!



1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
The Accidental Demon Slayer by Angie Fox

2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
First Drop of Crimson by Jeanine Frost from Sarah’s (Sehrenity) list

3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson

4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.

5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.

6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
Dark Challenge by Christine Feehan

7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank

8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Poison Study by Maria Snyder

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
A Quick Bite by Lynsay Sands

10. Reader's Choice
Visions of Heat by Nalini Singh

[Yz the Whyz, Moderator]

Ashley wrote: "Ok I'm gonna try this one! I'm doing eight categories. Is it ok that some of these are not just romance? I have some PNR mixed in? If that's not ok, I can try to change or do less categories. Thank..."

The books can be from any genre as long as it fits the challenge category.

[Ashley]

Yz the Whyz wrote: "Ashley wrote: "Ok I'm gonna try this one! I'm doing eight categories. Is it ok that some of these are not just romance? I have some PNR mixed in? If that's not ok, I can try to change or do less ca..."

Thanks Yz!

[Mel W]

Good grief, it's April already! This month's challenge has officially started - will have list up shortly :)

[Mel W]

April's challenge has officially started!

At the moment we have 64 readers participating in this month's challenge:

Alathea
Amanda (AmandaG3)
Angelique
Angie (out of 8)
Annie
Annvelwis
Archer (out of 3)
Ashley (ashleylaura87)
Barbara
Beth (MN)
Bianca
BJ Rose
Carolyn F
Cathy
Charlotte (Buried in Books) (out of 3)
Debbie
Delicious Dee
Diane
Donna
Erin
FlibBityFLooB
Gaijinmama (out of 5)
Harper (out of 3)
Hope (out of 5)
Janelle (out of 8)
Jennefer
Judy (out of 8)
Julie (Mom2lnb)
Karina
Kasia
Katherine
Kelley
Kenjii
Kingzkid
Kristen
Laura Lulu
Leah (Pherocious)
Lindy-Lane
Lizz
LooLoo (out of 8)
Lotte_ladybird
Lynne
Mary (out of 8)
Mel W
Nikki
Nita (out of 7)
Penney
Photojim
Pollyanna
Purple
Sallie
Samantha (out of 5)
Sandra - 1 book read
Sara
Sara Lindsey (out of 5)
Sharon Oslin
Shazzy
Shyloh
Stephanie P
Teodora (out of 8)
Toni
Tracy (out of 8)
Valorie
Yz

You can sign up any time throughout the month.

Total books read this month = 1

Please note: For ease of tracking, could you please RE-POST your official list with your progress after every update. Striking out the book's title and/or a finished date after the book's name will be best.

Next update will be April 7.

Reminder: Don't forget to add your challenge books to the group's bookshelf. Thanks!

Hello and welcome to first-time challengers and happy reading, everyone!

[Lotte_ladybird]

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
Agnes and the hitman - Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer

2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
Undead and Unwed (Undead, #1) by Mary Janice Davidson (Sarah's shelf)

3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Jinx - Meg Cabot finished April 1

4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Blue Dahlia - Nora Roberts

5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
Faking It - Jennifer Crusie


6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).

7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Catch 22 - Joseph Heller

8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Spellbound - Nora Roberts

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
(http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/roma...)
Romeo and Juliet - Shakespeare

10. Reader's Choice

[Lynne]

APRIL

1 of 10 complete!

1. Starts with A: About A Dragon by G.A. Aiken

2. Birthday Pick: Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception by Maggie Steifvater (Sarah’s Bookshelf)

3. Iowa: Over the Line by Cindy Gerard

4. Spring: TBD

5. Recycling: Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens

6. Creative Arts: Power Play by Deirdre Martin -- 4/1 ***1/2 -- Actress

7. 4 Stars: Blaze of Memory by Nalini Singh

8. Fantasy: Storm Born by Rachelle Mead

9. GR Romance Shelf: Secrets of a Summer Night by Lisa Kleypas

10. Reader’s Choice: Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris

Complete:

To Read:

[LooLoo]

1/8

1. "A" - Atlantis Redeemed by Alyssa Day
2. Birthday - Defeat the Darkness by Alexis Morgan (Regina's shelf) 4/1/10 ****
4. Spring Theme - Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
5. Earth Day - Death's Mistress by Karen Chance
7. 4 stars - Unleashing the Storm by Sydney Croft
8. Fantasy Romance - Wicked Magic by Cheyenne McCray
9. Of Lists and Shelves - Love Bites by Lynsay Sands
10. Reader's Choice - Undead and Unworthy by Maryjanice Davidson

[FlibBityFLooB]

1/10. Hooray for Spring Vacation! :) :) :)

1. Starts with A: Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone
2. Birthday (Sarah): Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh
3. Iowa: Little Heathens by Mildred Kalish
4. Flower: Thunder and Roses by Mary Jo Putney
5. Recycle (Royal Line): My Lady Notorious by Jo Beverley
6. Books/Dance: Succubus Shadows by Richelle Mead - ★★★★½, 4/1/10
7. Avg 4 stars+: Thorn Queen by Richelle Mead
8. Fantasy Romance: Silver Borne (Mercedes Thompson, #5) by Patricia Briggs
9. GR Romance Shelf: The Bride by Julie Garwood
10. Reader's Pick: Holly's Inbox by Holly Denham

[Amanda]

April Monthly Challenge
read 1 out of 8

1. April: Avalon High: The Merlin Prophecy by Meg Cabot
2. Birthday: The Killing Dance by Laurell K. Hamilton (Sarah ~ Sehrenity~)
3. Geography: ---
4. Spring Theme: And the Desert Blooms by Iris Johansen
5. Earth Day: Dante’s Girl by Natasha Rhodes
6. Creative Arts Theme: ---
7. Fourth month: Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon
8. Romance Genre: Master of the Night by Angela Knight
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Sizzle and Burn by Jayne Ann Krentz
10. Reader's Choice: The Third Circle by Amanda Quick

[Ashley]

April Montly Challenge

1/10 Done!

1. "A":A Great and Terrible Beauty
2. April Bday Celebrant from Sarah: The Book Thief
3. Iowa?? TBD
4. Flower: Undead and Unwed 4/1/10 ***
5. Earth Day Reuse: Dead Witch Walking
6. Character Arts: Succubus Blues (Library Book pending hold)
7. Av. 4 Stars on Goodreads: Halfway to the Grave
8. Fantasy Romance: Kushiel's Dart
9. Goodreads Romance: Outlander
10. Readers Choice: Wuthering Heights


Read:

To Read:

[LeeAnna (Tyer) Elliott]

I just want to know if you can use the books you are already reading for other challenges on different challenges or is that like some unwritten GR groups rule?
If it is okay then:
6. Born of Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon
7. Lover Mine by J.R. Ward
8. Primal Needs by Susan Sizemore
9. The Darkest Night by Gena Showalter
10. Scent of Darkness by Christina Dodd

[Vanessa]

I'm Done, (Finished Challenge 4/28/10)

1. Title A: All Night Long by Jayne Ann Krentz 4/13/10

4. Spring Theme: Scandal in Spring by Lisa Kleypas 4/14/10

5. Old favorite: Vengeance in Death by J.D. Robb - 4/22/10

6. Creative Arts Theme: Dance to the Piper by Nora Roberts 4/24/10

7. 4 stars or more here in Goodreads. Face the Fire by Nora Roberts - 4/14/10

8. Fantasy Romance: Affaire Royale by Nora Roberts - 4/26/10

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Carolina Moon by Nora Roberts -4/19/10

10. Reader's Choice: The Wild Baron by Catherine Coulter - 4/28/10

[FlibBityFLooB]

2/10. Silver Borne was *so* good. I highly recommend the series if you haven't tried it :)

1. Starts with A: Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone
2. Birthday (Sarah): Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh
3. Iowa: Little Heathens by Mildred Kalish
4. Flower: Thunder and Roses by Mary Jo Putney
5. Recycle (Royal Line): My Lady Notorious by Jo Beverley
6. Books/Dance: Succubus Shadows by Richelle Mead - ★★★★½, 4/1/10
7. Avg 4 stars+: Thorn Queen by Richelle Mead
8. Fantasy Romance: Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs - ★★★★★, 4/2/10
9. GR Romance Shelf: The Bride by Julie Garwood
10. Reader's Pick: Holly's Inbox by Holly Denham

[Annvelwis]

2/10 My tentative list:

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
Awaken Me Darkly by Gena Showalter
2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson (Jacqueline's shelf)
3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Jinx by Meg Cabot 02-04 ****
4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Zinnia by Jayne Castle
5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
Frostbite by Richelle Mead
6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
I Want You To Want Me by Kathy Love 06-04 ***
7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Pan Lodowego Ogrodu by Jarosław Grzędowicz
8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Queen of Dragons by Shana Abé 04-04 **
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
Dance of the Gods by Nora Roberts
10. Reader's Choice
TBR

[Mel W]

Yes, you can cross-challenge your books for this challenge with other challenges.

[Mel W]

RRRC GROUP - MONTHLY CHALLENGE - APRIL
Duration: April 1, 2010 to April 30, 2010

1/10 read

1. "A": All The Queen's Men by Linda Howard ★★★★☆ 2/4
2. April B'Day - Tasha: Never Too Much by Lori Foster
3. Geography - Iowa: Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
4. Spring Theme: Scandal in Spring by Lisa Kleypas
5. Earth Day: Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts
6. Creative Arts: Chesapeake Blue by Nora Roberts
7. 4 stars or more: Tears of the Moon by Nora Roberts
8. Fantasy: Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole
9. Of Lists & Shelves: Inner Harbor by Nora Roberts
10. Reader's Choice: Mercy by Julie Garwood

[AmandaG]

1. April: Fully Moon Rising by Keri Arthur
2. Birthday: Ecstasy Unveiled by Larissa Ione (Jamie)
3. Iowa: Calamity Jane by Bacus
4. Spring: Joining by Johanna Lindsey

5. Earth Day: Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole (previously listed on a challenge, but never read)
6. Creative: Tears of the Moon by Nora Roberts (Male protag composes music and plays instruments)
7. Four stars: Caressed by Ice by Nalini Singh
8. Fantasy Romance: Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson
9. GR Romance Shelf: Heart of the Sea by Nora Roberts
10. Reader's Choice:: Black Ice by Anne Stuart 4/1***

[Valorie]

1/10 Done

1. "A": The Accidental Demon Slayer by Angie Fox
2. April B'Day - Sarah~Sehrenity: Rises The Night by Colleen Gleason
3. Geography - Iowa: Witch Way to Murder by Shirley Damsgaard
4. Spring Theme: A Hoe Lot of Trouble by Heather Webber
5. Earth Day: Gideon by Jacquelyn Frank
6. Creative Arts: Feint of Art: An Annie Kincaid Mystery by Hailey Lind 4/2 ****
7. 4 stars or more: Veil of Midnight by Lara Adrian
8. Fantasy: A Hoboken Hipster in Sherwood Forest by Marianne Mancusi
9. Of Lists & Shelves: Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward
10. Reader's Choice: Sex, Lies and Vampires by Katie MacAlister

To Read:


Done:

[Lotte_ladybird]

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
(The) Awakening - Kelley Armstrong

2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
Undead and Unwed (Undead, #1) by Mary Janice Davidson (Sarah's shelf)

3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Jinx - Meg Cabot finished April 1

4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Blue Dahlia - Nora Roberts

5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
Faking It - Jennifer Crusie finished April 2


6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).

7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Catch 22 - Joseph Heller

8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Spellbound - Nora Roberts

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
(http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/roma...)
Romeo and Juliet - Shakespeare

10. Reader's Choice

[Erin]

Read: 1/10

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
All the Queen's Men by Linda Howard 4/1
2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan
3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Primavera by Francesca Lia Block
5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
The Laughing Corpse (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #2) by Laurell K. Hamilton
6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian
7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Spell of the Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
The Immortal Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
10. Reader's Choice
Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs

[Erin]

1. Accused, Marc Gimenez
2.
3.
4. Sweet Tea at Sunrise, Sherryl Woods
5. The Whole Truth, David Baldacci
6. The Summer We Fell Apart, Robin Antalek
7. Home in Carolina, Sherryl Woods 4/2/10
8.
9.
10.

[Nita]

1/7 done


1. Read a book which title starts with "A" - Atlantis Awakening
2. Birthday (Sarah) - The Dead Travel Fast
4. Spring Theme - The Iron King
6. Creative Arts Theme (Writer) - Black Silk
7. An average of 4 stars or more on Goodreads - Tanner's Scheme
9. Romance Shelf - Night Play (Dark-Hunter, #6)
10. Reader's Choice - Changeless 4/2 *****

[image error]

[Chelle]

April Reading Challenge Update

0/10 on 04/02/2010

1. April: "A" Book Awaken Me Darkly by Gena Showalter
2. Birthday:Lover Eternal by J.R. Ward (Jacqueline)
3. Geography: Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
4. Spring Theme: Goddess of Spring by P.C. Cast
5. Earth Day: Witch Fire by Anya Bast
6. Creative Arts Theme: Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian
7. 4-Star Winners: Magic Burns by Ilona Andrews
8. Fantasy Romance Genre: Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Lover Awakened by J.R. Ward
10. Reader's Choice Goddess of the Sea by P.C. Cast

[Mel W]

RRRC GROUP - MONTHLY CHALLENGE - APRIL
Duration: April 1, 2010 to April 30, 2010

2/10 read

1. "A": All The Queen's Men by Linda Howard ★★★★☆ 2/4
2. April B'Day - Tasha: Never Too Much by Lori Foster ★★★★☆ 3/4
3. Geography - Iowa: Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
4. Spring Theme: Scandal in Spring by Lisa Kleypas
5. Earth Day: Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts
6. Creative Arts: Chesapeake Blue by Nora Roberts
7. 4 stars or more: Tears of the Moon by Nora Roberts
8. Fantasy: Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole
9. Of Lists & Shelves: Inner Harbor by Nora Roberts
10. Reader's Choice: Mercy by Julie Garwood

[FlibBityFLooB]

3/10. I enjoyed Thunder and Roses more than I expected to -- and not just because of the skinny dipping with penguins that occured in the book ;)

1. Starts with A: Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone
2. Birthday (Sarah): Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh
3. Iowa: Little Heathens by Mildred Kalish
4. Flower: Thunder and Roses by Mary Jo Putney - ★★★★★, 4/3/10
5. Recycle (Royal Line): My Lady Notorious by Jo Beverley
6. Books/Dance: Succubus Shadows by Richelle Mead - ★★★★½, 4/1/10
7. Avg 4 stars+: Thorn Queen by Richelle Mead
8. Fantasy Romance: Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs - ★★★★★, 4/2/10
9. GR Romance Shelf: The Bride by Julie Garwood
10. Reader's Pick: Holly's Inbox by Holly Denham

[Sandra]

RRRC APRIL 2010 Challenge

4/10 Completed

1. A - All I Want for Christmas Is a Vampire 3/4/10★★★★
2. B'day - (Regina) - Kiss of Crimson
3. Iowa - A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
4. Flower - Promises in Death 1/4/10★★★★
5. Re-read - Two Can Play
6. Arty character (photographer) - Second Sight
7. 4 Stars - The Dragon's Demon 3/4/10★★★★★
8. Fantasy Romance - Changeless
9. First 10 pgs of Romance List - Single White Vampire 4/4/10★★★★
10. Choice - Primal Encounter

[Karina]

Challenge Duration: April 1 - April 30, 2010
3/8

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland: With Illustrations by Willy Pogany Completed:05/04/2010

2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
The Pact: A Love Story

5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
Dark Lover

6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
Succubus Blues

7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
City of Bones

8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Living Dead in Dallas Completed:04/04/2010

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
(http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/roma...)
New Moon Completed:03/04/2010

10. Reader's Choice
Stray

[Amanda]

RRRC: Monthly Challenge
read 2 out of 8

1. April: Avalon High: The Merlin Prophecy by Meg Cabot
2. Birthday: The Killing Dance by Laurell K. Hamilton (Sarah ~ Sehrenity~)
3. Geography: ---
4. Spring Theme: And the Desert Blooms by Iris Johansen
5. Earth Day: Dante’s Girl by Natasha Rhodes
6. Creative Arts Theme: ---
7. Fourth month: Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon
8. Romance Genre: Master of the Night by Angela Knight
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Sizzle and Burn by Jayne Ann Krentz
10. Reader's Choice: The Third Circle by Amanda Quick

[Hope]

Yz the Whyz wrote: "Diane wrote: "I'm in, but I have a question. Can someone define fantasy romance for me? Is it the same as paranormal romance or something different?"

Good question with a not-so-clear answer. ..."

Yz, I have a few problems with your definition. By your definition Harry Potter and Mercedes Lackey would be paranormals. Rowling and Lackey (and many other authors including the author I read for this month's challenge) set their fantasies in places we all know like London or New York or Los Angeles. I don't think the setting is what defines a fantasy versus a paranormal.

To me, (and of course my opinion matters not at all in this group but I'll sound off anyway), a paranormal has werewolves, vampires, zombies and ghosts or some other kind of oddity like esp or stuff like that. Whereas fantasy has elves, gnomes, wizards, mages and all kinds of magic, regardless of setting. I wouldn't ever call Mercedes Lackey's books paranormals. They are urban fantasies.

[Yz the Whyz, Moderator]

Hope wrote: Yz, I have a few problems with your definition. By your definition Harry Potter and Mercedes Lackey would be paranormals. Rowling and Lackey (and many other authors including the author I read for this month's challenge) set their fantasies in places we all know like London or New York or Los Angeles. I don't think the setting is what defines a fantasy versus a paranormal.

To me, (and of course my opinion matters not at all in this group but I'll sound off anyway), a paranormal has werewolves, vampires, zombies and ghosts or some other kind of oddity like esp or stuff like that. Whereas fantasy has elves, gnomes, wizards, mages and all kinds of magic, regardless of setting. I wouldn't ever call Mercedes Lackey's books paranormals. They are urban fantasies.
..."

Thanks for the input, Hope.

First and foremost, I prefaced my definition as being 'mine', meaning it is subject to corrections if somebody has a better explanation.

Harry Potter is basically fantasy fiction. Sure, London is mentioned as its setting, but the world she created is so distant from any 'realistic' place, that it can only be classified as fantasy.

I'm not familiar with Mercedes Lackey's work, so I cannot comment on that.

[Laura Lulu]

2/10


1. A is for April Angels' Blood Nalini Singh
2. Birthday *Michelle's List* Summer Knight Jim Butcher
3. Iowa The Weight of Silence Heather Gudenkauf
4. Spring Flowers The Body Finder Kimberly Derting April 1 ★★★★
5. Earth Day Fire Me Up Katie MacAlister
6. Creative Arts Succubus Shadows Richelle Mead
7. 4+ Stars The Dead-Tossed Waves Carrie Ryan April 3 ★★★★★
8. Fantasy Romance The Princess Bride William Goldman
9. GR's Romance Shelf Light My Fire Katie MacAlister
10. Reader's Choice The Line Teri Hall

[Vanessa]

Mel W wrote: "Yes, you can cross-challenge your books for this challenge with other challenges."

Thanks Mel, for the info. It's a good thing, too, because I seem to be getting a little carried away with the number of challenges I'm joining.

[Laura Lulu]

Hope wrote: "I wouldn't ever call Mercedes Lackey's books paranormals. They are urban fantasies. "

And I would call Lackey's books straight fantasy--definitely not urban fantasy. I have not read anything of hers, but just going by the descriptions--made up world, medieval setting, "a mystical horse-like being with powers beyond imagining", "an age when the kingdom was ravaged by the ungoverned fury of bandit warlords, ferocious ice dragons, and the wild magic of wizards", etc. is my definition of Straight Fantasy.

Categorizing these books is difficult as some blur the lines of different subgenres in the fantasy category, so it is up to each reader to classify them as they see fit. The general consensus, however, is the guidelines Yz posted--

Straight Fantasy - made up world w/much world building, medieval setting, magic, wizards, dragons, etc. (George R.R. Martin, Kushiel, Sevenwaters Harry Potter, Graceling)

Urban Fantasy - story with fantasy & or paranormal elements set in our world, either the real world, where there is a paranormal world that most of us mundane humans know nothing about (Harry Dresden, Mercedes Thompson, Sookie Stackhouse, etc) or our world, but in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic, or speculative setting (Kate Daniels, Parasol Protectorate).

I find it much easier to differentiate Straight Fantasy from Urban Fantasy, than to differentiate Urban Fantasy from Paranormal Romance. Again the general consensus in that distinction is the level of romance, but again, you can classify them any way you choose.

It's easy to put a book into the Urban Fantasy subgenre if it has no romance, or if there is any loving, it is such a tiny side plot (Harry Dresden). But from there the lines start to blur. How I differentiate them is simple--if the book has a happily ever after ending in the romance department, it is Paranormal Romance (Psy-Changeling, BDB). If the romance is more along the lines of sexual tension between the characters and it carries over from book to book in the series with no HEA resolution in sight, that to me is Urban Fantasy (Kate Daniels, Mercedes Thompson, Cassandra Palmer).

But just like Yz said, this is just how I categorize them--just because that's how we see it, doesn't mean that's how everyone must.

[Erin]

Read: 2/10

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
All the Queen's Men by Linda Howard 4/1
2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan
3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Primavera by Francesca Lia Block
5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
The Laughing Corpse (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, #2) by Laurell K. Hamilton
6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian
7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Spell of the Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
The Immortal Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
10. Reader's Choice
Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs 4/3

[Yz the Whyz, Moderator]

Well said, Laura Lulu.

You pretty much summed up how I would differentiate the genres involved. I also used the HEA after each book to separate paranormal romance from romantic urban fantasy.

[Lynne]

APRIL

3 of 10 complete!

1. Starts with A: About A Dragon by G.A. Aiken

2. Birthday Pick: Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception by Maggie Steifvater (Sarah’s Bookshelf) -- 4/3 ****1/2

3. Iowa: Over the Line by Cindy Gerard

4. Spring: TBD

5. Recycling: Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens -- Audio -- 4/3 ****1/2

6. Creative Arts: Power Play by Deirdre Martin -- 4/1 ***1/2 -- Actress

7. 4 Stars: Blaze of Memory by Nalini Singh

8. Fantasy: Storm Born by Rachelle Mead

9. GR Romance Shelf: Secrets of a Summer Night by Lisa Kleypas

10. Reader’s Choice: Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris

To Read:


Complete:

[BJ Rose]

Starting out strong - will see if it lasts!

Romance Readers Monthly Challenges 2010

April
3/10

1. Starts with 'A' - The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
2. April BD: Debbie - Dark Slayer OR Karen - Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
3. Geography: Iowa - Switcharound by Lois Lowry *library* Apr 1 (3.5*)
4. Spring Theme - The Ideal Bride OR Seduced By A Scoundrel
5. Earth Day: Reread a favorite - The Flame and the Flower
6. Creative Arts Theme: Born in Shame (Born In trilogy #3) by Nora Roberts
7. 4th Month: 4* or better - 4.0 av. A Promise of Spring by Mary Balogh Apr 3 (5*)
8. Romance Genre: Fantasy Romance - Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole
9. Of Lists & Shelves: Morning Glory by LaVyrle Spencer Apr 2 (5*)
10. Reader's Choice: TBD

[Lotte_ladybird]

4 out of 10 done

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
(The) Awakening - Kelley Armstrong finished April 4

2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
Undead and Unwed (Undead, #1) by Mary Janice Davidson (Sarah's shelf)

3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Jinx - Meg Cabot finished April 1

4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Blue Dahlia - Nora Roberts

5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
Faking It - Jennifer Crusie finished April 2


6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
All American Girl - Meg Cabot finished April 4

7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Catch 22 - Joseph Heller

8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Spellbound - Nora Roberts

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
(http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/roma...)
Romeo and Juliet - Shakespeare

10. Reader's Choice

[Mojca]

6/10


1. April: Almost Forever by Linda Howard
2. Birthday: The Third Circle by Amanda Quick (B-day girl: Sarah ~Sehrenity~)
3. Geography (Iowa): Tempting the Tycoon by Cindy Gerard — 04/01
4. Spring Theme: Seduced by Virginia Henley — 04/04
5. Earth Day: Fantasy Lover by Sherrilyn Kenyon — 04/01
6. Creative Arts Theme: Chain Reaction by Dee Davis — 04/03
7. 4 stars: Out of Mind by Stella Cameron — 04/02

        
8. Romance Genre (Fantasy): Hunting Evander by Kim Knox — 04/01
9. Of Lists and Shelves: Sizzle and Burn by Jayne Ann Krentz (page 10)
10. Reader's Choice: Mistress: Hired for the Billionaire's Pleasure by India Grey

[Yz the Whyz, Moderator]

Finally got my list together. As usual, there is probably no way I'm going to complete all ten, but hope springs eternal. : )

RRRC Monthly Challenge

"A" - Ask For It by Sylvia Day
B-day - Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris (Sarah's shelf)
Iowa - Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood
Spring - Flowers from the Storm by Laura Kinsale
Earth Day - Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh
Creative - Tears of the Moon by Nora Roberts (hero is a song-writer)
4-stars+ - Ecstasy Unveiled by Larissa Ione
Fantasy Romance Lady of Light and Shadows by C.L. Wilson
GR Romance Shelf - Night Pleasures
Reader's Choice - Pleasure of a Dark Prince by Kresley Cole

[LooLoo]

4/8

1. "A" - Atlantis Redeemed by Alyssa Day
2. Birthday - Defeat the Darkness by Alexis Morgan (Regina's shelf) 4/1/10 ****
4. Spring Theme - Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr 4/2/10 ****
5. Earth Day - Death's Mistress by Karen Chance 4/3/10 (3.75*)
7. 4 stars - Unleashing the Storm by Sydney Croft
8. Fantasy Romance - Wicked Magic by Cheyenne McCray
9. Of Lists and Shelves - Love Bites by Lynsay Sands 4/4/10 ****
10. Reader's Choice - Undead and Unworthy by Maryjanice Davidson

[Valorie]

2/10 Done

1. "A": The Accidental Demon Slayer by Angie Fox
2. April B'Day - Sarah~Sehrenity: Rises The Night by Colleen Gleason
3. Geography - Iowa: Witch Way to Murder by Shirley Damsgaard
4. Spring Theme: A Hoe Lot of Trouble by Heather Webber 4/4 ****
5. Earth Day: Gideon by Jacquelyn Frank
6. Creative Arts: Feint of Art: An Annie Kincaid Mystery by Hailey Lind 4/2 ****
7. 4 stars or more: Veil of Midnight by Lara Adrian
8. Fantasy: A Hoboken Hipster in Sherwood Forest by Marianne Mancusi
9. Of Lists & Shelves: Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward
10. Reader's Choice: Sex, Lies and Vampires by Katie MacAlister

To Read:


Done:

[Lotte_ladybird]

5 out of 10 done and only day four.. yippie :)

1. April: Read a book which title starts with "A."
(The) Awakening - Kelley Armstrong finished April 4

2. Birthday: Read a book from an April B-day celebrant.
Undead and Unwed (Undead, #1) by Mary Janice Davidson (Sarah's shelf)

3. Geography: Read a book whose author, setting or character is from Iowa.
Jinx - Meg Cabot finished April 1

4. Spring Theme: Read a book that has flower, flowers or garden on the cover; or has the word "flower", "flowers", or any type of flower as part of its title.
Blue Dahlia - Nora Roberts

5. Earth Day: In the spirit of recycling, reread an old favorite or reuse a book that you have posted in a previous challenge but never got around to reading.
Faking It - Jennifer Crusie finished April 2


6. Creative Arts Theme: Read a book that has a character that is involved in any type of arts (music, dance, literature, etc).
All American Girl - Meg Cabot finished April 4

7. With April as the fourth month, read a book that has received an average of 4 stars or more here in Goodreads.
Catch 22 - Joseph Heller

8. Romance Genre: Read a fantasy romance.
Spellbound - Nora Roberts finished April 4

9. Of Lists and Shelves: Read a book that is shelved within the first 10 pages of GR's romance shelf
(http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/roma...)
Romeo and Juliet - Shakespeare

10. Reader's Choice

[Diane ~Firefly~]

April Monthly Challenge
April 1 - April 30
update




1. Title starts with A: The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
2. Book from shelves of an April bday celebrant (Michelle): Marked by P.C. and Kristin Cast
3. Geography - Iowa: Witch Way to Murder by Shirley Damsgaard
4. Spring - flowers on cover or in title: Amaryllis by Jayne Castle
5. Earth Day - reread an old favorite: Murder By Impulse by D. R. Meredith
6. Creative Arts - character involves in arts: Being a Green Mother by Piers Anthony
7. April is 4th month, book that averages 4 or more stars at Goodreads: Thorn Queen by Richelle Mead - 4/1/10
8. Fantasy romance: Heartmate by Robin D. Owens - 4/3/10
9. Book from first 10 pages of Goodreads romance shelf: Dark Side of the Moon by Sherrilyn Kenyon
10. Reader's choice: I Only Have Fangs for You by Kathy Love - 4/4/10

(titles subject to change)

[tosca]

Hey, popping in and out sporadically to update this month. All subject to change depending on mood, whimsy and the moon. Here's my April list:

1. Book starts with 'A' - Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh
2. Birthday book - Michelle: Ecstasy Unveiled by Larissa Ione OR Mark of the Demon by Diana Rowland
3. Iowa - Something More by Janet Dailey
4. Spring theme - Italian Groom, Princess Bride by Rebecca Winters
5. Earth Day - Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey
6. Creative arts - Lord of Seduction: A Novel by Nicole Jordan
7. 4 stars - The Duke And I by Julia Quinn OR Bad Boys Of Summer edited by Lori Foster
8. Fantasy romance - Twice as Hot by Gena Showalter
9. Of lists & shelves - It's In His Kiss by Julia Quinn
10. Readers' choice - Wicked Gentlemen by Ginn Hale 1st April 2010 m/m steampunk novel - I liked it a lot (even though there wasn't heaps of m/m intimacy, the emphasis is on the world building and action outside of the sheets)

[Debbie]

Monthly Challenge:
Duration: April 1 - April 30, 2010
2 / 10 Read: (tentatively)

1. April: (Apocalypse Happens by Lori Handeland)
2. Birthday: (Sarah ) (Lover Enshrined by JR Ward)
3. Geography: (Sweet Promise by Janet Dailey)
4. Spring Theme: The Bride of Spring (4/5) ****
5. Earth Day: Garden Spells (4/3) *****
6. Creative Arts Theme: TBA
7. Fourth month: TBA
8. Romance Genre: (Behold the Eye: v by Veronica R. Tabares)
9. Of Lists and Shelves: (Lover Avenged by JR Ward)
10. Reader's Choice: TBA
Options for TBA's
(Fantasy Lover by Sherilyn Kenyon)
(A Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian)