Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion
2010 Challenge Archive
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June - Pick It For Me! Challenge
Annvelwis… so we meet yet again... uh!, I think I got stuck in that last historical romance I read..I went through your lists trying to pick good books for you but since you have read so much I lost track of time picking a few for my own!, any way… here’s what I picked for you, I hope you like them:
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick. I read this book last month and I thought it was pretty good.
Shades of Midnight by Lara Adrian. This is Kade’s story, I was waiting for this book and it didn’t disappoint me.
Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day by Winifred Watson. I’ve been wanting to read this book and I noticed you also marked it as to-read.
Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson. This is the first book the series if you’re in the mood for it.
A Rose in Winter by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. I just finished this book as part of the A lifetime of books challenge and I really really liked it.
Megan's Mark by Lora Leigh. This one is so maybe you can join us in July’s featured author challenge.
Goddess of Spring by P.C. Cast. You have the first one on your list but this is much much better.
The Diary of a Young Girl: the Definitive Edition by Anne Frank. This is one of the first books I read.. a classic!
Happy reading!!
Lili wrote: "Annvelwis… so we meet yet again... uh!, I think I got stuck in that last historical romance I read..I went through your lists trying to pick good books for you but since you have read so much I l..."
Ohh Annvelwis, I forgot to mention!, there’s a drinking game going on at the FAC… it certainly makes it more interesting and, since I’m so nice, I got you covered, you get two challenges with one book!
But apparently the drinking involved will be quite a bit so make sure you have enough. I think I read something about inebriating posts but I don’t think that’s a must.
For further info on the drinking game you can ask Rossy, she's the expert… *grins*
Hi, Julie! It's been so much fun going through your bookshelves and finding out we have so much in common. So it wasn't really hard picking 4 books from your to-read list.
From TBR:
1. Vampire Academy - This is one of my favorite series and if you decide to give it a try, you won't be disappointed. The first book might seem a little slow to you but if you go through it, the rest is much better.
2. Shiver - This book is really good. I admit it didn't win me over but the story was well-told and it was definitely worth the time.
3. Halfway to the Grave - This is one of the best ones I've read all year. The plot is good, but what got me completely hooked, were the characters themselves. They were strong and passionate and in the same time funny and charming. I loved them!
4. The Lost Symbol - I had my doubts recommending you this one. I haven't actually read it yet but a friend told me it was really good and because it is quite different from the ones above I decided to give it a try.
Here comes the hard part, recommending new books. I'm still new here and haven't read a lot of books so it was difficult for me to choose four new books for you because most of them are new to me as well. I saw from your shelves that you like ya and paranormal genre so that's where my head went. I hope I don't disappoint you.
NEW books:
1. Gone - This book is in my TBR shelf as well and I've heard good things about it. It's YA so it was an easy pick.
2. Hush, Hush - This one I've actually read. It about teens and fallen angels and good and bad people *laughs*, you get the picture. I really enjoyed it.
3. Uglies - This is a very popular series and I've heard many different opinions about it. I keep wanting to read it but I always hesitate. May be if you decide to read it I'll get over my doubts and read it myself.
4. Wondrous Strange - This book I chose randomly from my friends' shelves so I can't say lots of things about it except that it's still new but the people who have read it seem pretty satisfied.
One last thing. When you recommend books for me don't bother with my TBR list. Most of the books there haven't come out yet. Eight new books will be great.
So that's all from me. No matter what you pick to read I sincerely hope you enjoy it. :)
MichelleFrom your TBR
-A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray After you get through the first 50 pages or so, its awesome! I loved this series!
-Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella A classic chick lit :)
-In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner Slightly depressing chick lit, but good just the same.
-Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater One of my favorites! So romantic!
New to you
-Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead I just read this and loved it!
-Anybody Out There? by Marian Keyes A wonderful author, her work is a bit darker chick lit.
-You Slay Me by Katie MacAlister PNR with dragons!
-The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club: True Tales from a Magnificent and Clumsy Life by Laurie Notaro Something fun and light!
KimKirt, I think DDtbs did a great job of matching us. Going through your list of contemporaries is like going through a list of books I've read in the past year. Rachel Gibson, Jennifer Crusie, Susan Elizabeth Phillips are all certainly names I've read even in the past month. I'm looking forward to seeing what you will come up with for me.As for you, let's get to it.
TBR Picks:
1. Dirty by Megan Hart - I really liked this one. Touching story. Don't let the fact that it's listed as erotica scare you away.
2. Cry No More by Linda Howard - Anyone I know that has read this has certainly enjoyed it. Very good suspense/thriller/romance.
3. Causing Havoc by Lori Foster - You like some of the Chicago All Star books by SEP and some of the Chinook hockey books by Gibson. You'll probably like this too. This is the first book in a series. While I've liked a couple of the later books in the series better, I certainly liked this enough to recommend it to several people.
4. Nobody's Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips - takes place in your back yard - in the Smokies of NC. Not my favorite SEP, but still better than average.
Since I'm at a family gathering and people are waiting for me, I'll have to give your new picks to you later.
Hey Shelly Lovely to meet you!!!this is going to be heaps fun:)
I am still new to the Book world, so i hope i do all right :)
From Your TBR List
Zack I have this one my TBR list too, and my best friend just read it and said it was AMAZING!!
Pleasure Unbound I haven't read this one,but has been told it is very god
Cry Wolf I have this on my TBR list too,I was told it is AWESOME!!
Love, Lust and Pixie Dust This one i couldn't help my self the name alone just had me interested that i added it to my TBR list :)
NOW COMES THE HARD PART..LOL..
New To Read
ShiverI Read this book last week and i couldn't put it down,It was an amazing read for a Y/A!!
Wolf Tales II read this 2 weeks ago and i just finished reading the second one and i Loved them :)
Bitten LoVE LOve love this Book!!
The Darkest Night This has two be one of my Fave series ever!! Love LOVE this book :)
A Kiss of Shadows (Meredith Gentry, #1) I had to add this!! I love this series so much :)
I hope You find something you like :)
Looking forward for your picks :) and chatting books with you!! Was fun to picking books for you too :P
Lethal Lovely,It had been an interesting experience roaming through your GR bookshelves. We have some books in common, and there are times that we like the same stuff, and parts where our opinions go in opposite directions. :)
So let's see if I can find something that you will like.
From your TBR list:
Lord of the Fading Lands by C.L. Wilson - I've only read up to the 2nd book, but so far what I have experienced from this series is high-quality writing.
Kiss of Fire by Deborah Cooke - Standard PNR formula with hunky dragon shifters. Fun read.
Skinwalker by Faith Hunter and Working for the Devil by Lilith Saint Crow - Both books have the required Urban Fantasy kick-ass female leads. Both books have pretty solid world-building, so they might be worth a bump up your TBR list.
Now for ones that you don't have on your TBR:
Wild, Wicked, & Wanton by Jaci Burton - You have plenty of ER in your list, and I haven't read that many, but this book is a favorite of mine. It's weird since I don't like her other books that much. : )
Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh - You have her Hunter's Guild series, but you don't have her more popular Psy/Changeling books. One of my top fave series.
It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips - You have read a few of her books, but I'm a fan of her Chicago Stars series. It's good company for a couple of hours to do some light romantic reading.
The Book Thief by Markus Zuzak - Just thought I'll throw this in. A remarkable book. Funny and poignant, and will stay with you for a long time after you have read it.
Well, hope you find something that will make you want to read for June.
Happy reading! :)
Hi Sandy!Your TBR list has so many great books on it, it was hard to choose only 4- I actually chose 5. Here goes-
1. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - haven't read it but heard it's wonderful.
2. Dark Lover - this is one of my favorite series of all time- I have read all but the newest, Lover Mine, saving it for a June challenge.
3. A Knight in Shining Armor - I read this several years ago and loved it.
4. The Bride - I noticed this is your first Julie Garwood- I have recently discovered her and really enjoy her- sweet, funny, light.
5. Wild Card- I added this one in case you needed a Lora Leigh for the June author challenge. I have read tons by her but not this one- but heard good things.
Now for the new picks-
1. A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole- I noticed you read IAD #1- the rest of the series is much better than the one you read. Please consider reading the rest of the series- LOVE them all.
2. See Jane Run by Joy Fielding- I read this a very long time ago and still remember it, and love it. Suspenseful, exciting, edge of your seat great.
3. Night Pleasures or Dance With The Devil by Sherrilyn Kenyon- I saw that you read the first one of the Dark Hunters series. If you want to continue, Night Pleasures was good, but Dance With The Devil was REALLY good. Not sure if you cared about reading out of order, but they can stand alone, so if you don't mind, I would choose Dance With The Devil over Night Pleasures, but both good.
4. Elizabeth's Wolf (Breeds, #4) by Lora Leigh- In case you needed a Lora Leigh and didn't want to read Wild Card, her breed series is fantastic and Elizabeth's Wolf is the best. Although it is fourth in the series, she gives you the basics in the beginning of each book, and I don't think you need to read the first three.
It was so much fun to choose books for you, I hope you find something you enjoy! I would love to chat with you about whatever you decide on.
Yz the Whyz, it was a pleasure going through your shelves & I definitely saw some books I wouldn't mind reading. But you have ALOT of TBR books so I hope you don't mind if I add an extra book or two to both rec's.From your TBR Shelf:
1)North of Beautiful by Justina Chen Headley~ This is one of the best YA novel's I've read this year. I fell in love with the storyline & prose. Plus, one of the main characters is Asian so you might be able to use it for the It's Just a Game challenge.
2)First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost~ I noticed that you enjoyed Frost's Night Huntress series so you might like this one too. Especially if you go for romances that have HEA's at the end.
3)Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh~ While I haven't read Singh's Psy-Changeling series (which you apparently enjoyed), I do like her Guild Hunter one. It's more UF than PNR but don't despair. The romance is very much prevalent.
4)Once an Angel by Teresa Medeiros~ I noticed you've read one book by Medeiros & have quite a few on your TBR shelf. This is one of my favorites by her.
5)Suddenly You or Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas~ Since you have a few novels by her but haven't actually read any (IIRC) I thought you might like one of these. She is definitely one of my favorite HR authors.
Novels I think you might like:
1)Be With Me by Maya Banks~ This was my first novel by Banks & it hooked me. The writing is enthralling & she actually makes the storyline of a permanent foursome believable without coming off as sleazy.
2)Mona Lisa Awakening by Sunny~ Imo, this is an excellent blend of PNR & erotica. It's also an ongoing series.
3)The Pride of Lions by Marsha Canham~ This is a great two-part series, especially if you like your HR heavy on the history but with steamy scenes.
4)Black Silk by Sharon Page~ I noticed you read & enjoyed at least one other novel from the Aphrodisia ER line so you might enjoy this one too. This is actually the 2nd of a three-part series, & while I've read the last two, I wouldn't feel comfortable rec'ing the first since I haven't read it yet.
5)Strange Angels by Lilith Saintcrow~ Since you liked Saintcrow's Working for the Devil I thought you might enjoy her new YA series. It's very action-packed & the heroine is total badass.
6)Playing with Fire by Gena Showalter~ Seems like you liked Showalter's LOTU series so I think you might like this one too. It's focused on the adventures of Belle Jamison, a young woman unexpectedly gifted with power over the four elements.
Dedria,You only had 16 books in your TBR list and I haven't read any of them, so I'm going to only give you 2 TBR recs and then 6 new recs. I hope that is ok.
TBR
Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison - I have read her Hollows series and enjoy it and have this book on my Amazon wishlist.
The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong - We've both read the first book and enjoyed it, so maybe it is time to pick up the second.
New to you
Naked in Death by J. D. Robb - your profile says you're a huge Nora Roberts fan, so I thought you might enjoy this series written under a pen name. Plus Roarke is to die for.
Shadow Game by Christine Feehan - you seem to really enjoy her Carpathian series, so you might like this one as well.
Magic in the Wind or The Twilight Before Christmas by Christine Feehan - this is another series by Feehan. The first book is a mini, so you may want to start with the second.
Bitten by Kelley Armstrong - I love her Women of the Otherworld series and the Elena/Clay books are my favorite. Some people think this one is a bit slow, but it is a great story and start to a series.
Death's Daughter by Amber Benson - The heroine acts more like a teenager, but it is a fun story with some greek mythology tie-ins.
Sweet Success by Susan Mallery - a story of redemption with some fun characters and lots of chocolate.
I hope you find something you enjoy and would love to hear what you think of whatever book you choose.
Sara -Wow that was really quick! I think I'll probably read The Host this month.
Here's my list for you:
New Picks
The Dead Travel Fast - A decent historical novel, a little deceptive in its premise but not a bad read overall
Vampire Academy - A very good YA book/series that I think you'll enjoy based on your past read books.
Leviathan - A YA Steampunk novel, I haven't read it yet but it sounds great
Halfway to the Grave - I think you'll enjoy this series given your ratings on the BDB books and your read list
Bonus Selection: Unwind - a dystopian-oriented YA novel. Not usually my cup of tea genre-wise but I enjoyed it greatly
From Your TBR list
Changeless - I haven't read this yet but I've heard decent things about it
Twilight - This book can be enjoyable if one doesn't fixate too much on grammar and the fact that vampires should not sparkle. All in all, a light fluffy easy read.
The Lost Duke of Wyndham - I'm reading this book in June and it sounds pretty interesting
Lover Revealed - A good contribution to the BDB series, highly recommended
Bonus Selection: Bitten - the first 100 pages are very slow but if you can force yourself to read past that, it is a great book
Hi, Angie!We have so many books in common and our taste are very similar! Hope you enjoy my recs..
From your TBR:
1. Dragon Heat - it´s a very fun and sensual book!
2. Tempt Me with Darkness - it´s a very interesting story and the first in a serie.
3. Covet - I´m a huge fan of J.R´s work and this is a great book!
4. Desire Unchained - I love Demonica´s book - great read!
New to you authors and books.
1. Forget Me Not - Marliss Melton´s SEAL Team 12 serie is a very good read.
2. Wicked Ties - Shayla writes some very good erotica stories. This is one of my favorites.
3. Passion- this is a very good and hot love story!
4. Pride Mates - this is a new look in shifters books. I really loved it!
Hi Julie!All my recommendations are books I've read and really enjoyed. I tried to give you a mix of genres but with more of the genres I see you like.
From your TBR:
1.Where Dreams Begin - This is one of the few books on my keeper shelf. Loved it.
2.Of Mice and Men - A bit of tearjerker but a great story nonetheless.
3.Yours Until Dawn - Good historical with a great twist.
4.After the Night - Great contemporary. Another one of AAR Top 100 romances.
New to you:
1.North and South - Since I saw you liked P&P, I thought you might like this one. Great story about class struggle in the Victorian era.
2.The Raven Prince - Another of the few books on my keeper shelf - can't believe you haven't read it! One of AAR Top 100 Romances.
3.The Undomestic Goddess - Very funny (just for a change of pace, something lighthearted!)
4.Garden Spells - Oh I loved this one. Fantasy, romance, fiction. Beautiful language and great characters.
Lili wrote: "Lili wrote: "Annvelwis… so we meet yet again... uh!, I think I got stuck in that last historical romance I read..I went through your lists trying to pick good books for you but since you have rea..."
Expert? *snort* LOL!
Hi Ang,Great picks from you! I'm going to read all four from my TBR list you recommended and I will order all five of the new ones you suggested. They all looked fantastic!
Now for you.
From your TBR:
Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon - I don't know how you have resisted picking it up already!
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward - this is an amazing series. Brings you to tears at times.
Halfway to the Grave by Jeannine Frost - you will fall in lust with Bones
Dark Fever by Karen Marie Moning - I can't even say enough about this series
New to you:
I noticed you are a huge PNR fan...but try these
Play Dirty by Sandra Brown - heavy on the suspense and she is an absoulutly amazing storyteller
Out of Control by Shannon McKenna - hot, hot, hot
Lady Be Good by Susan Elizabeth Phillips - laugh out loud funny, but you really care about the characters
Cry No More by Linda Howard - unbelievable book
I hope you enjoy these. I sure did. Let me know what you think.
wow Natalie - you are heavy in the PNR, UF and YA, this should be interesting. From your TBR list:
1) Hush, Hush - what a great book, YA or not it really kept my attention.
2) City of Bones - fast and fun, the immortal instruments are interesting and always left me wanting more
3) The Host - so different than the twilight series, but the innocent writing style is still a part of it and makes the characters better
4) Dark Prince - The Carpathians are a great series I am so excited about these whenever a new one comes out
New to you selections:
had some fun with this one, since you have mostly paranormal and urban fantasy, I went a little outside your norm here - hope you find something you like....
1) High Noon - noticed you had a few Nora Roberts, here is a good romantic suspense.
2) Real Murders - another side of Charlaine Harris, this is a murder mystery series.
3) Fast Women - just a fun, flirty contemporary romance (chick-lit).
4) Mine Till Midnight - had to through in a historical romance (one of my favorite genres)
Well, I hope you are able to find something in here that you want to read this month - hope you enjoy it too. Let me know if you need more, I actually had about 6 more I wanted to give you but limited myself to the 4/4.
Macwolf01 [Elise:]Hi Elise!
I hope you're able to find a book from the 8 recs below that you'd like to read. If nothing appeals to you, I will gladly search again.
Your TBR
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
Lover Mine by J.R. Ward
Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin
New Picks For You
Something Wonderful by Judith McNaught (She was recommended to me a couple of months ago. I can't get enough of her historicals. I've become a huge fan of her books).
Morning Glory by Lavryle Spencer (This book won a RITA award for best romance).
These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer (We both seem to like Jane Austen. Georgette has been compared to her. You may like her).
Then Came You by Lisa Kleypas (I've heard great things about this authors books, both her historicals and her contemporary books).
Let me know which book you chose to read.
Enjoy!
Helllloooooo Katherine! It seems we have similar tastes so this shant be hard. I wanted to give you some variety so I added another two books to each category. :)From TBR
1)Covet
2)A Midsummer Night's Dream
3)The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
4)Succubus Blues
5)Lover Eternal
6)Hotter After Midnight
NEW
1)See Jane Score
2)Some Girls Bite
3)Would-Be Witch
4)Tempted by His Kiss
5)Red-Headed Stepchild
6)Touch the Dark
Hey D.G,I have been looking forward to this challenge all week. I can't wait to try the ones you have chosen for my lists. I hope that I have picked enjoyable books for you. If you are like me, I want to read everything. I tried to select a variety of types. So, here goes:
TBR LIST:
Sweet Talk by Susan Mallery - A cozy mystery that sounds fun.
The Rake by Mary Jo Putney - Historical - I have read this one and it was good.
Twenties Girl Sophie Kinsella - Humorous - You recommended a book by this author and I thought we both could read one.
Dream Man by Linda Howard - Thriller - I love Linda Howard. I haven't read this one, but have plenty of her others. Hope it's good.
NEW TO YOU:
Heaven, Texas by Susan Elizabeth Phillips - Humorous - I love this author and saw that you had read one of hers.
The Switch by Sandra Brown - Thriller - One of my favorites. Intense.
Ransom by Julie Garwood - Historical - Also one my favorites. Detailed glimpse of this period.
A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux - Time Travel - I didn't see that you had read anything from Deveraux. She has such a variety of time periods and styles. This is an older one that was fun to read the first time and worth rereading.
Please let me know which one(s) you choose. I will also post what I pick to read.
Have fun!!!
Ahrcadia~(Fhantasie)~,TBR
1. Shiver byMaggie Stiefvater This is a really good YA book about werewolves. I can't wait for the second book to come out in July.
2. Fantasy Lover by Sherrilyn Kenyon This was one of the first PNR's I ever read and I have been a fan of Sherrilyn Kenyon ever since.
3. Full Moon Rising by Keri Arthur Riley Jensen is one of my all time fav characters.
4. Nightkeepers by Jessica Andersen I picked this book up because it was recommended by JR Ward. The Mayan mythology is really interesting and I have really enjoyed this series.
NEW
1. Born of Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon This series has just been re-released in the last year by Sherrilyn Kenyon. Yet another kick butt series.
2. Witchling by Yasmine Galenorn Series about 3 half human/half fae sisters whose magic seems to go wrong at the worst times. I have read all 7 books and ready for #8.
3. Shadow Game by Christine Feehan Series about physically and psychically enhanced women and men/soldiers.
4. Scent of Darkness by Christina Dodd A good PNR that pushes the boundaries of good and evil. Start of a very good series.
Arcadia ~(Fhantasie)~Thanks for the recommendations.
TBR
1. The Darkest Passion by Gena Showalter
2. Hostage to Pleasure by Nalini Singh
NEW
1. Storm Born by Richelle Mead
LiliHi again ;D
Heh, I'll read Megan's Mark, thanks! :D
And here's some picks for you...
TBR:
- Soulless by Gail Carriger
- Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
- Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh
- The Duke And I by Julia Quinn
Other:
- Sunshine by Robin McKinley
- The Unsung Hero by Suzanne Brockmann
- Skinwalker by Faith Hunter
- The Smoke Thief by Shana Abé
I hope you'll find something intresting here. If not, just give me a sign and I'll come up with something else :D
Enjoy!
Hi BJ RoseUmmm... wow! You have a ton of amazing books on your shelves!!! :) I had so much fun looking at everything you have read! Very impressive!
So here is my best shot at recommendations....
New to you:
Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency by Douglas Adams
This is the funniest mystery series you will ever pick up! I love Douglas Adams and I absolutely loved these books, maybe even more than The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
I can not believe you have never read any Agatha Christie!!! You need to get on it! :) So I am going to recommend anything by this author and if you need a place to start try this one.
He Loves Lucy by Susan Donovan
This is probably my favorite contemporary. Just a great book with great characters and a not to rushed love story. The book takes place over a year so the romance develops in a believable way I think.
Hide My Savage Heart by Gimone Hall
Ok this one is a bit random. I picked this up at a library book sale and it was such a pleasant surprise! I see you enjoy historical romance so this is my hidden gem of the genre I am going to recommend! I loved it! Check out your local used bookstore obviously but if you cant find it there check out abebooks.
From your TBR:
Chicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield
You can't go wrong with any of these books. Just really nice feel good stories! Pick it up and read a story or two every day :) It will fill your month with smiles! :)
Cry No More by Linda Howard
I have not read this yet, but I keep having people insist I have to read it and it is soooo good and on and on... LOL So I am going to suggest you push this one near the top of your TBR as well. If you pick this one maybe I will read it with you! :)
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Hey, lets throw a classic in the mix! Why not?
Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
I have not read this one myself yet either but I thought I would throw in a PNR/UF type of book as well. I hear good things about this series so I think it would be worth bumping up Mt.TBR
Hope something here stands out! Happy reading!
Julie wrote: "Hey D.G,I have been looking forward to this challenge all week. I can't wait to try the ones you have chosen for my lists. I hope that I have picked enjoyable books for you...."
Woohoo! Thanks, Julie! I'll try to read at least a couple of the books you suggested. :) I don't remember ever reading Deveraux...but hopefully that will change soon! :)
Kelly,I had fun going over your lists. I tried to pick out books from your TBR list that either I have read, or that I think sound interesting. As for the new books, I had my daughter help me pick out four new books we thought you might like!
From your TBR list
The Awakening - I read this one and enjoyed it (I have the third one sitting here to read as well!)
Sam's Letters to Jennifer
Blood Brothers
Gone
New to you books
Enchanted, Inc. - I thought this was a cute book about a woman who is immune to magic (but doesn't know it) that goes to New York to try and get a job.
You Slay Me - This is the first in a series about a Guardian and Dragons. It's a fun series to read!
The Accidental Demon Slayer - This is the first in a series about a woman who, on her 30th birthday, finds she is a demon slayer. I just love her grandmother and the group in this book.
Stardust - I really enjoy the way Gaiman writes.
Hi Gus!Okay, here it goes. I tried to give you a little bit of everything so I hope you find something you like!
TBR:
1. Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost - I'm currently reading this now and it's amazing. I'm excited there's more (it's a series)! PNR
2. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder - I was recommended this in the last challenge and thought it was a pretty good read. Looking foward to the next one.
3. Graceling by Kristin Cashore - LOVED this book. Can't wait for the new one.
4. The Iron King by Julie Kagawa - Never read this one but it's also on my TBR list. I've heard good things about it so I might have to read it soon as well.
NEW:
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - A YA book that I could not put down.
2. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon - Historical-romance, time travel. A little slow at start but it gets better, promise. I'm currently on Gabaldon's 5th one in the series and love it.
3. Dark Lover by J.R. Ward - PNR. I'm in love with the Brotherhood. I love recommending this to people so I was excited when I saw it wasn't on your shelf!!
4. Crazy Ladies: A Novel by Michael Lee West - Chick-lit and one of my favorite. I've enjoyed all of West's books, (who I thought was a man but is really a woman).
Let me know whice one(s) you think you might like!!
Gus,Thanks for my recs! I look forward to reading them all but since I only have a month I'm going to do my best to read these:
FROM TBR:
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
NEW FOR ME:
You Slay Me by Katie MacAlister
The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club: True Tales from a Magnificent and Clumsy Life by Laurie Notaro
Shelley wrote: "Hi Ang,Great picks from you! I'm going to read all four from my TBR list you recommended and I will order all five of the new ones you suggested. They all looked fantastic!
Now for you.
@SHELLY.. Thanks so much for my picks!!
I own All 4 books from mt TBR list so i am going to try and read them all :)
And from the new ones i am going to try and read them all too!! They sound great, i will let you no what i am reading as i read they and let you no what i think..
And YAY!! You liked my pics, i Hope you love the New ones!! they are all my Faves :)
Jennefer - thanks for the recommendations. I just picked up Moon Called from the library, on the recommendation of some PNR-loving friends who said I MUST try Patricia Briggs, so this rec fits right in!
I read Agatha Christie many years ago before I started keeping reading records, so some of the oldies-but-goodies aren't on my GR shelves yet *guess I'd better take care of that!*. I'm going to take your recommendation about reading an A.C. book, but I'll go with The ABC Murders
Susan Donovan is on my list of authors-to-try, and He Loves Lucy sounds like a good place to start.
My son has all of Douglas Adams' books, so I'll also read Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency if time permits.
Now back to making your recs - I'm almost ready to post them.
Rossy and DD! I know this is premature, but I'm available if anyone is missing recs.
Thanks!
Gigi
thanks Gigi! Rossy isn't actually on the receiving list because we had an odd number, so she might get pinged as well (yep, i'm putting that out there!)
Jennefer - here are your recommendationsFrom your TBR list, I highly recommend the following *all 5* reads for me*
The Duke And I by Julia Quinn - this is the first book in the highly entertaining Bridgerton series. If you like this one, go on to The Viscount Who Loved Me, which is my favorite in the series
I'm recommending 3 books by Nora Roberts, each the beginning of a trilogy, and they're all contemporary and they're all romances, but that's where the similarity ends.
Morrigan's Cross begins the paranormal Circle trilogy, with a 'circle of six' who must battle the powerful vampire Lilith and her followers. The 'good guys' are a 12th century Irish sorcerer, his brother the vampire, a red-haired witch, a shape-shifter, a demon-hunter, and a scholar. There's time-travel to modern times and back again as they wage their battle against evil.
Jewels of the Sun begins the story of the Gallaghers of Ardmore, and has some Irish fairie magic with a beautiful backstory to tie the past to present events, and a cottage that I'd love to live in!
Sea Swept begins the Chesapeake Bay saga of the adopted Quinn brothers who've each found their own successful career, but start a family boat-building business to provide a stable home for their newly-adopted young brother when their dad is killed in a car crash. The first book is about Cam the boat racer, and Anna, the social worker who takes on the job of making sure they do the right thing for young Seth. This trilogy became 4 books when she later wrote Seth's book.
And from Kresley Cole, If You Dare begins her McCarrick Brothers trilogy. How can you not love some 19th century Scottish Highlanders. And there's an old family curse that has the brothers convinced that they dare not marry!
New for You
Since you like Susan Donovan, I'll bet you'd like Anyone But You by Jennifer Crusie - a light-hearted and enjoyable contemporary read.
And an historical romance that I absolutely loved - The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley. This was the first book of hers that I read, but it won't be the last.
In the PNR genre, I recommend Covet by J.R. Ward, which I enjoyed even more than her BDB series (I know I'm in the minority here, but somebody has to be there, right?!) I liked the fallen-angel theme, and look forward to the next in the series.
The Hunger Games is a great beginning of a YA trilogy by Suzanne Collins. I've read the first two and am waiting for the 3rd to come out.
Hope you find something in here to really enjoy!
Hi PhotoJim!I really enjoyed going through your book list, I agree, good match of tastes in the contemporary area which I've been leaning toward lately.
On to the recs! And don't worry, no historicals on the list ;-)
Blue-Eyed Devil I didn't see where you had read any Lisa Kleypas and I enjoy this author. She does lean strongly toward historicals, but has a few contemporaries. This is 2nd in the series and I have a bad habit of reading series out of order. I've read all three in the series and this was by far my favorite.
Can You Keep a Secret? Another author, (Sophie Kinsella) I didn't see on your list. Rather new to me as well. I enjoyed this one and I will probably pick up some others of hers to read.
See Jane Score I notice you have read Rachel Gibson, not sure if you've read this particular one of hers. I loved it, the tattoo on the hero alone . . . swoon!
Water for Elephants Not a romance. Well, it does have a small romance in there, but the book isn't centered around that. It's about a traveling circus. I really enjoyed it, very different!
The Book Thief A YA book. I see it recommended a lot, and for good reason as it's a good read. Set in the Hitler era. That pretty much says what the book is going to be about. Loved the characters.
The Art of Racing in the Rain This one seems to get a lot of hit and miss reviews. My review of it was a hit. Told from a dog's perspective.
Bitten Okay, I have to say, I don't care much for paranormals. You know your feeling about historicals? That's me with paranormals. I'm recommending this just because it's a paranormal that I've read and a lot of people recommend it (well, that's actually why I read it, it was a monthly rec).
Tourist Season I lived in South Florida for 30 years. I used to read Carl Hiaasen's column in the paper. I devoured Carl Hiassen books when I lived down there. Pretty much you can pick any one of them and they have a similar story line. This was one of my favorites out of them all.
Plum Spooky I noticed you had some Janet Evanovich on your shelves but didn't really care for them. I do enjoy her "Stephanie Plum" series. This one is actually a "Between the Numbers" book. I was bad and didn't read any of these in order either, but you don't really have too. This is one of that series I particularly enjoyed.
So there you go! Looking forward to seeing what you pick.
![Macwolf01 [Elise] (macwolf01) | 1012 comments](https://images.gr-assets.com/users/1277511172p1/2680059.jpg)
Gigi wrote: "Macwolf01 [Elise:]Hi Elise!
I hope you're able to find a book from the 8 recs below that you'd like to read. If nothing appeals to you, I will gladly search again. "
Thanks Gigi
They all look good, I've added them all to my TBR list they all look up my aisle.
I have the Girl with a Dragon Tattoo and really want to read it but I keep forgeting its there and I've really want to try a Lisa Kleypas book so I'm going to look for Then Came You.
My picks, same thing goes if nothing hits your fancy let me know and I'll find more :0)
From you EXTENSIVE TBR list (I love the books on your list I grab some more)
1. The Bride by Julie Garwood (Historical romance she is probably my all time favorite, she is funny. Her contemporary stuff isn't too bad either)
2. Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian (Another vampire series similar to J.R. Ward)
3. Where Dreams Begin by Lisa Kleypas (if you read we can compare 1st impressions)
4. Size 12 Is Not Fat by Meg Cabot (LOVE the title)
New Picks
1. Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens (my 2nd Fav historical romance writer STRONG HEROS)
2. Alias Grace by Maragret Atwood (she's recommended for those who like Toni Morrison)
3. The Icarus Girl by Helen Oyeyemi (I was looking for something totally different)
4. Taste of Passion by Brenda Jackson (lots of good feedback on her romance)
Hey Amelia! Here are the recommendations I've come up with.TBR Shelf
1. Alice I Have Been(I would have recommended this if it wasn't on your TBR shelf too.)
2. The Rest Falls Away
3. Angels' Blood
4.Girl in Translation
New Picks
1. Heartsick
2. Midnight Never Come
3. Her Fearful Symmetry
4. Fearless
5. As She Climbed Across the Table
6. To See You Again: A True Story of Love in a Time of War
If none of those catches your interest for this month, let me know! I will think of more. :)
Also, I've decided to read The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie and Touch the Dark.
D.G. wrote: "Julie wrote: "Hey D.G,I have been looking forward to this challenge all week. I can't wait to try the ones you have chosen for my lists. I hope that I have picked enjoyable books for you...."
..."
Hey D.G.,
I have decided to start with "The Undomestic Goddess". Sounds like my kinda mood today. Spunky and goofy. I will get it from the library on Tuesday. I also placed a hold for "The Raven Prince", since the reviews are so high for that one. This is so much fun!! I will post my thoughts on the books when I get started. Thanks for the suggestions. Do you hear humming?.........That's just me all happy when I'm getting ready to read a new book. :)
Macwolf01 [Elise:] wrote: "Gigi wrote: "Macwolf01 [Elise:]Hi Elise!
I hope you're able to find a book from the 8 recs below that you'd like to read. If nothing appeals to you, I will gladly search again. "
Thanks..."
Hi Elise!
I love your recs. In fact, I gave your recs their own bookshelf! I'm torn between at least 6 or 7 of them and I plan to read them all. LOL I've added them to my TBR list ; ). LOL I loved going through your book list as well. It seems like we have similar taste.
I've heard good things about Jackson's Madaris series, but I want to read them in order and I have no idea which book is the first one. Like you, I'm dying to read Lisa Kleypas. So, I'm going to pick Where Dreams Begin. I would love to compare 1st impressions. This is going to be fun!
Thanks for the great recs!
Hi Sheila!Well you have a great list of things I have mostly already read, so this should be easy peasy ;)
On TBR List:
1. Dark Lover by J.R. Ward - amazing. I have never met a person who doesn't love this series.
2. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater - a great YA, in my favorites pile I fell in love with it instantly
3. Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz - Such a creative YA, and a good mystery too
4. Wake by Lisa McMann - a paranormal YA mystery. Has it all, great trilogy
New Picks:
1. Show No Mercy by Cindy Gerard - it's the first in her Black Ops series, great author and a good start
2. Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey - a really great vamp YA. Don't let the title fool you!
3. My Soul to Take by Rachel Vincent - I see you already have her adult romance on your tbr list, this is her YA paranormal series, 3 books in the series so far and great
4. Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins - a YA with a great mystery!
Hope you enjoy these! :)
Gigi wrote: "Macwolf01 [Elise:] wrote: "Gigi wrote: "Macwolf01 [Elise:]Hi Elise!
I've heard good things about Jackson's Madaris series, but I want to read them in order and I have no idea which book is the first one..."
I looked them up but it seems that some of them are only available thru her site this is a family chart ... it might help
Madris-Family&Friends chart
Hi, Melanie! I hope one of these interests you!New to you
1) An Arranged Marriage (Company of Rogues #1) - Jo Beverley (Historical - regency. Jo is one of my favorite romance authors. This is the first book in her regency series, “Company of Rogues.” She has a great style and there are some awesome heroes in this series.)
2) Flowers From the Storm - Laura Kinsale (Historical - regency. I saw you didn’t have any Kinsale on your TBR/read shelves and she’s another one of my faves. This is actually my favorite romance genre novel ever.)
3) Succubus Blues - Richelle Mead (Urban fantasy. I saw you had some books from the “Vampire Academy” series on your shelves. I haven’t read that yet, but I have read the first four in her Georgina Kincaid series and I really like it.)
4) The Hourglass - Barbara Metzger (Historical - regency/paranormal. This was an interesting book. I thought you might enjoy it since you seem to like both historical and paranormal romances.)
From your TBR
1) The Secret Pearl - Mary Balogh (I really liked this book.)
2) The Sultan’s Favorite: A Phantom of the Opera Story - Anne Burnside (PotO is my favorite musical ever and this sounds interesting!)
3) Lord of Scoundrels - Loretta Chase (Haven’t read this myself, but it’s on my TBR because I’ve heard nothing but good things about it.)
4) Black Ice (Ice #1) - Anne Stuart (I like Anne Stuart and there are some great heroes in the “Ice” series.)
Macwolf01 [Elise:] wrote: "Gigi wrote: "Macwolf01 [Elise:] wrote: "Gigi wrote: "Macwolf01 [Elise:]Hi Elise!
I've heard good things about Jackson's Madaris series, but I want to read them in order and I have no idea wh..."
Oh wow! This is a great to have. I'm adding this link to my favorites. Thanks Elise!
Julie wrote: I have decided to start with "The Undomestic Goddess". Sounds like my kinda mood today. Spunky and goofy. I will get it from the library on Tuesday. I also placed a hold for "The Raven Prince", since the reviews are so high for that one. "
TUG is a hoot! Let me know how you like it. :)
I requested two books from my 'new' list: the SEP and Devereaux books (my library won't allow online requests for MMPB so anything I request must be a Trade or Hardcover edition.) Don't know how soon I'll get them so most likely I'll start with one of the books from my TBR...either the Linda Howard or the Mallery because they fit another challenge I'm working on. :)
Hey Michelle! I'm glad I could find some picks you like! The 4 you picked to read are all favorites of mine, don't worry if you can't get them done in a month though :) I'm going for either Dark Lover or Halfway to the Grave. They are both have crazy holds at the library, so it just depends on if I can get them! Otherwise, Poison Study is the way to go!
Regina wrote: "Hi, Angie!We have so many books in common and our taste are very similar! Hope you enjoy my recs..
From your TBR:
1. Dragon Heat - it´s a very fun and sensual book!
2. Tempt..."</i>
Hi Regina,
Thanks for recommendations - I can't decide what I'm going to read though!!!
My recomendations are all books I love and considering how similar our tastes are I think you will too.
TBR list:
[book:Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs
No Rest for the Wicked by Kresley Cole
Atlantis Rising by Alyssa Day
A Quick Bite by Lynsay Sands
New authors:
My Wicked Enemy by Carolyn Jewel
Hara's Legacy by Bianca D'Arc
Dark and Dangerous by Jeanne Adams
Shadow Game by Christine Feehan
Hope you like them!
Hi Claudia,I'm haven't read anything on your to-read list, or anything by those authors, so I'll just wing it on those selections. **SORRY!** But I'll try and make up for it by giving you extra recommendations.
From your TBR list:
Like Water for Chocolate - This one looked pretty good.
Dragonfly in Amber - You didn't seem to enjoy the first in this series, but assuming you're anything like me, you're probably dying to get it off your TBR list, so I'll throw it in.
Shopaholic Takes Manhattan - this one looked cute and you seemed to enjoy the other from this series.
The Poisonwood Bible - this isn't really my kind of book, but I threw it in anyway just so you'll have a variety of options.
Not from your TBR list:
The Lightning Thief - You liked the Harry Potter series, so I'm sure you'll love these books.
You Slay Me - This is a paranormal romance with a bit of humor.
Naked in Death - I'm a big time Nora Roberts fan, and this series is a favorite among many. It's a futuristic, romantic suspense.
Angels Fall - This is a contemporary romantic suspense by Nora.
Dead Until Dark - If you watch True Blood then you've probably already heard of this series. Sookie makes the books completely lovable.
Chocolat - I didn't really enjoy this novel, but I have several friends who have preferences similar to yours and they LOVE this book.
Whitney, My Love - You liked The Flame and the Flower so I believe you'll enjoy this one as well. It a historical romance with a spitfire heroine, and alpha hero, and a lot of drama.
Wild Card - I'm not sure if you like erotica or not, but I threw this one in anyway. I really loved this series and I recommend it to everyone.
Darkfever - I cannot say enough good things about this book. It's one of my all time favorites and completely addictive. I laughed, cried, got completely pissed off, and feel in love with this series.
Hi ♦Jennifer♦! You seem to like a lot of paranormal/fantasy/sci fi books, which was kind of a challenge for me since I don't often read those genres. Hopefully, though, I've picked some things you might enjoy! TBR List
Fledgling - Loved this book when I read it. Octavia Butler is a criminally under-appreciated author.
Daughter of the Forest - Fun, well-written beach/summer read.
'Salem's Lot - My favorite of Stephen King's novels. The build-up is slow, but the payoff is shocking and amazing.
Soulless - Another fun, sexy beach read.
New To You
House of Leaves - Gave me nightmares. Not obviously scary, but the book gets underneath your skin somehow.
Bitten - Kelly Armstrong is an excellent paranormal romance author, imo. This is her debut novel.
A Civil Campaign - I had so much fun reading this book, I can't even describe it. If you like sci fi/urban fantasy, I think you'll like this book. Though it's part of a series, this is a stand-alone book; you don't have to have read any of the other books to understand or enjoy this one (I didn't!).
Against a Dark Background - very complex, interesting sci fi novel populated by fascinating characters.
KimKirt, Finally back from my multi-state, family visiting, picnic eating, pool swimming, lake kayaking, card playing, drinking weekend. Time to finish my recs for you. And no PNR!But first let me say thank you for the very thoughtful recs you gave me. Thank you for the NO HISTORICALS! I'm almost positive I'll go with See Jane Score. First because I'm getting my first tattoo next month and I hear there is a good tattoo in it. Second, I like Rachel Gibson and read the first book in the series. Of the other recs I've actually read Water for Elephants, Can You Keep a Secret?, Plum Spooky, and maybe Tourist Season. I joined GR in August and didn't go through and add every book I've ever read. And as for the Hiaassen book, I've read a few of them. Is this one of those? I'd have to look at it to see if it is.
Now for your new picks:
1. Talk Me Down by Victoria Dahl - The first of a contemporary three book series set in Colorado. The first is good. The second in GREAT! Light and funny.
2. Delicious by Susan Mallery - First of a four book contemporary series. Set in Seattle with flawed characters and redemptions galore. Good stuff.
If you want light contemporary, you can't go wrong with either of the above.
3. Florida Roadkill by Tim Dorsey. If you like Southern Florida mayhem and humor, you will probably find this amusing.
4. and finally, from a YA shelf, Nation by Terry Pratchett. An alternate history YA book with out the romance. Excellent read.
Hi Lesley,Thanks for the great recs! I'll get right on that list. This is my first time doing the pick it for me challenge so I hope I am doing it right.
From your TBR list I picked:
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Must read this one!)
Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz (I have loved all of the Odd Thomas books
Lightning by Dean Koontz
Heartsick by Chelsea Cain
New recomendations are:
Track of the Cat by Nevada Barr (I love Nevada Barr because her novels are so descriptive you feel you are actually there. Her protagonist is a National Park Ranger named Anna Pigeon)
Heartbreaker by Julie Garwood (great author - I have enjoyed everything I have read by her a whole bunch)
The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen (I love this author! Her series of novels is being made into a new TNT TV series starting July 12th. This is the first in the series. I'm in a Tess Gerritsen group here on Goodreads where Tess is a participant.)
One for the Money by Janet Evanovich (If you haven't met Stephanie Plum yet, you should.)
I hope there is something there you will like. Probably none of them are "romance" but they all are great reads.
Enjoy -- Sheila
Romance Readers Reading Challenges
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TBR:
Club Dead by Charlaine Harris I gave 3 stars to the first 2 but they do get better :)
Bitten by Kelley Armstrong I haven't read this yet either but I am going to read it soon and I've heard that it is good.
Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost another book that I also haven't read yet but it sounds quite good.
Dark Secret by Christine Feehan - as you've read most of this series, I thought I'd give you this one too.
New:
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon - I'm reading this at the moment and I'm really enjoying it. I noticed that you have a few highland romances on your list and thought you might like this.
Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder - another choice that you might like, a mix of paranormal and adventure that I really enjoyed.
Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead - a very sexy book that is quite fun and exciting. Thought this might be your cup of tea :)
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown - you really liked Da Vinci Code so I thought you should read this, it is just as good if not better and it is a pretty quick read because it is full of cliffhangers that just keeps you reading.
Hope you find something you like, enjoy :)