Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion
2011 Challenge Archive
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May - Pick It For Me Challenge
Recs for me? No? Boo hoo. This happened last month too.
SheSwitches wrote: "Hello Sue!I had to use listopia, friend's shelves, and past recommendations for a few so I'm going to give 2 picks for each because I feel like I'm cheating you because I had to do that. But, the..."
You gave me some great suggestions this month!! I am not that fast of a reader, but I'm going to try to read at least two from your list (and put a bunch more on my wishlist on Amazon!)
The two I will try are Frost Moon and Bite My Fire. And if I have time, I will also read Frostbitten and It Had to Be You. Oh, and I really want to read Iron Crowned as a buddy read! So if you are up for that, I'll start that one first right after my move.
Sue-
AshleyAlexis, I will have your recommendations before the weekend is over.
Okay Dee, here it is.Limiting myself to just one suggestion per category is impossible! No really, it actually hurts my head to think of it. LOL. So I gave in and provided a few extra recommendations.
Historical
The first name that pops into my head is Julie Garwood. I used to read tons of historicals, Janelle Taylor, Jude Deveraux and Johanna Lindsey were a few favorite authors, but Julie Garwood tops my list of comfort read authors. I’ve read and reread her historicals many times. While I love Gentle Warrior and her Scottish books, one of my personal favorites is Guardian Angel. It’s the second in a series about Crown Spies, so you might want to start with Lion’s Lady, though it’s not absolutely necessary. (I would suggest Kleypas’ Wallflowers series, which I read recently. I loved Devil in Winter, but I see you’ve already read those.) I recently read The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie and absolutely loved it. I regret not picking it up a whole lot sooner.
Julie Garwood’s Crown's Spies: The Lion's Lady Guardian Angel .
Jennifer Ashley, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie
Contemporary
This was the hardest category. As I was trying to come up with recommendations, I discovered something. Though I used to read a lot of these, my tastes have changed and I’ve drifted away from straightforward contemporaries. I tend toward something with more of an edge, either through the addition of suspense, paranormal elements or the heat found in erotic romances. Nora Roberts is an old favorite, but the majority of her writing falls into either the paranormal or suspense camp. I did enjoy the first three Bride Quartet books, the fourth is on my TBR, but you’ve already read them. Her Chesapeake Bay Saga is also pretty good. Linda Howard is another favorite, but her best work falls into the suspense category and I’m saving her for that. Hmmm, Lori Foster is an old favorite also. I love her Winston series, which started with three novellas. The first brother’s story is printed in Hot Chocolate or all three are collected in The Winston Brothers. Your choice.
Nora Roberts' Chesapeake Bay Saga: Sea Swept
Lori Foster's Winston Brothers: Hot Chocolate or The Winston Brothers
Urban Fantasy
Patricia Briggs. ‘Nuff said. LOL. I always buy these when they come out, hardcover or not. I notice you’ve started the Mercy Thompson series. Silver Borne is going to have to top my recommendations. Ilona Andrews is another favorite. It looks like you’ve read the first Kate Daniels and it only gets better. The developing relationship between Kate and Curran is filled with humorous moments. I just discovered Devon Monk last year and I found the price of using magic in her Allie Beckstrom series unique and interesting. So many favorites, I’m having a real hard time limiting myself. I’ll stop now, though I could go on for hours. LOL.
Patricia Briggs’ Mercedes Thompson series: Silver Borne
Ilona Andrews’ Kate Daniels series: Magic Burns
Devon Monk’s Allie Beckstrom series: Magic to the Bone
Paranormal Romance – Vampires
Ward and Feehan are the names most people think of immediately and while I think they both are very good authors, I’m going to go another route. The majority of other Vampire “romance” actually falls into the UF camp and Jennifer Rardin’s Jaz Parks does too. But the overall arc of the series develops the romance between Jaz and Vayl, so I’m going to list it here. Supernatural assassins for the CIA, what could be better? The book that would top my recommendation list, though, is Diane Sylvan’s Queen of Shadows, one of the best vampire books I’ve read recently. It reads like PNR even though it’s supposed to be the first in a UF series.
Diane Sylvan, Queen of Shadows
Jennifer Rardin’s Jaz Parks series: Once Bitten, Twice Shy
Paranormal Romance
The Psy-Changeling series by Nalini Singh tops my favorites list. It looks like you haven’t read #7 or #8 yet? I’m recommending whichever one comes next for you. For something a little grittier, I would definitely suggest the Skin series by Ava Gray.
Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling series, Blaze of Memory or Bonds of Justice
Ava Gray’s Skin Series, Skin Game
SF/Futuristic Romance
It goes without saying that J.D. Robb’s In Death series should be listed here. I love the continuing romance between Roarke and Eve. It would be so easy to concentrate on the crime solving to the detriment of the character development, but Robb avoids this trap. I love that she’s portrayed their marriage realistically. Roarke and Eve spat and get annoyed with each other, but they work through things and you can see the strong bonds of love holding them together. Your choice on any book in this series. Again it’s hard to find strictly romance books in this field that excel, so my second suggestion is going to be in the nature of romantic SF also. I absolutely adore Gini Koch’s Katherine “Kitty” Katt series. One of my personal favorite finds of 2010. Kitty is snarky without being annoying and copes well when thrust into a world filled with alien monsters. I’ve recommended the first book multiple times.
J.D. Robb’s In Death series, Seduction in Death
Gini Koch’s Katherine “Kitty” Katt series, Touched by an Alien
Romantic Suspense
Linda Howard shines in this category. While she’s written good, solid stories in contemporaries, her best work is definitely in the Romantic Suspense field. My absolute favorite is MR. Perfect, having read it multiple times. Open Season is another wonderful read. I see you’ve read a couple of her books, but I would suggest you give one of these two a try. I was going to leave it with just Linda Howard, but I recently read Maya Banks’s first KGI book and it was quite good also. I felt the hero was a little weak, but that was more than made up for by the strength of the heroine and the emotional impact of the relationship between the main characters.
Linda Howard, Mr. Perfect
Linda Howard, Open Season
Maya Banks' KGI series: The Darkest Hour
Erotic Romance
I lied earlier, contemporary wasn’t the hardest category. This was. LOL. But, only because most of my recent reading in this category actually came from your recommendations and shelves. I noticed you had Morgan Hawke’s books listed on your shelves, but it didn’t look like you had read them yet. I thoroughly enjoyed Victorious Star and Fallen Star. I also have Lost Star on the list for my next book buying binge. I also saw the first Maya Banks’ Sweet book on your shelf. I would definitely continue, Serena’s story in Sweet Persuasion is wonderful. I have two recommendation for books I didn’t see anywhere on your shelf. Since they were originally Black Lace prints, it may take you a while to track down copies of them. I really don’t expect you’ll be able to get to these this month but I personally love them so much, I just have to pass the titles on to you. IMO, Emma Holly’s Black Lace titles are her best; I just cannot get into her paranormal works. Most people remember Menage and it is good, but my favorite is Velvet Glove. The other book is from Lisabet Sarai. I have read Raw Silk multiple times over the years.
Morgan Hawke’s Interstellar Service and Discipline series, Victorious Star
Maya Banks’ Sweet series, Sweet Persuasion
Emma Holly, Velvet Glove
Lisabet Sarai, Raw Silk
Buddy Read
I saw these on your TBR or Wish-list shelves and I've been planning on reading them too. Just let me know if you wanted to choose one for a buddy read.
A Rush of Wings, Adrian Phoenix
Mind Games, Carolyn Crane
A Hunger Like No Other, Kresley Cole
Parallel Attraction, Deidre Knight
Kushiel's Dart, Jacqueline Carey. Well, okay. So I've actually read this one about 6 times. But I love the court intrigue and dark fantasy elements, so I'd be willing to read it again with a buddy. I'm about due for it anyway. LOL.
Yike's I feel like I wrote an essay. LOL.
Hey Annabell,Thanks for the picks. I'ma do the buddy read.
MountainKat wrote: "Thank you for all of the picks Monica!! I am trying to figure out what I want to read! Actually, there are several I want to read, the question is which one(s) am I going to read this month... I will let you know what I pick!" I'm glad you liked the pics. Let me know what you pick, and how you like them as you go through your choices. I'd be interested to see how you felt about them. =]
Shellbelle wrote: "I just made my whole list added the books and everything!!! It took forever and then It didn't post!!!!!!!!!!!! Shelley..I will re do it soon, but i'm walking away from this computer, before it lea..."LOL! What a bummer Shellbelle!!
SheSwitches wrote: "14,000 books listed as "B**ch Read This NOW!" That'd be hilarious! ;)"I want to "like" this so much!!
Valerie ~Varuca~ wrote: "Hi Yz,Here are my picks for this month....hopefully there is something here you will enjoy :)
Historical- Then Came You-Lisa Klepas...I don't read historicals, but I have read he..."
Great recs. I haven't had the chance to check each one out, but from a cursory glance, I'm leaning towards the latest Nighthuntress book or Lover Unleashed. I'll let you know when I made up my mind.
~ Debbie ~Just letting you know I'm not ignoring you. :)
I'll be offline most of the weekend, but I'll make sure you get your recs before Monday.
Thanks for the patience.
D.G. I requested a few books from the library: And Then He Kissed Her and Perfect Chemistry are both already in and Practice Makes Perfect is on its way. I'll let you know what I think.
LaurentiuHere was my process, I started by comparing our books. I quickly found out that we have very few books in common. I didn't recognize too many books that are on your tbr list so I settled on recomending my favorites. I have my fingers crossed that you will find a book or two that peaks your interest. =)
Historical Romance
Emma by Jane Austin. I chose this one because it was on your tbr and I haven't read too many historical romances.
Contemporary
I have two picks for you because I couldn't pick just one. Just the Sexiest Man Alive by Julie James and Bet Me by Jennifer Cruise.
Urban Fantasy
I have lots of favorites so I picked two for this catagory too.
The Sookie Stackhouse series, Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris and The Hallows Series, Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison.
Paranormal Romance (vampire)
Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost. I absolutly LOVE this series, I strongly suggest you give this book a try. Another good Vampire book is The Passage by Justin Cronin, this isn't much of a romance book but I really enjoyed it.
Paranormal Romance (non-vamp)
Storm Born or Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead. I can't help but love everything that Richelle writes.
Sci-Fi/Futuristic
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I think you will like this series based on some of the books you have read.
Romantic Suspense
I just finished reading the first two books in this series and can't wait to start the next book.Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning.
Erotic Romance
I don't know what to say other than I haven't read that fit this catagory. I have to refer to a friend to help me with this recommendation.Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone.
If you don't find anything please tell me and I will pick again. Enjoy!!!!
Hey Autumn , My picks for you:Historical: Darcy's Voyage
Contemporary: Kiss an Angel(one of my favorite books)
Urban Fantasy: Moon Called---From Mercedes Thompson Series
Paranormal Romance (Vampire): Dark Lover -- From the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series
Paranormal Romance(other: Cry Wolf ---From Alpha & Omega Series.( I LOVE this series and i'm slowly dying inside waiting for the 3rd installment.)
Sci-Fi / Futuristic Romance: Zinnia (Loved Loved Loved this one!) ---From the St. Helen Series. This is actually the 2nd book in the series but you don't miss out anything by skipping the first book which is what I did.
Romantic Suspense:The Search
Erotic Romance: Plaid Skirt Confessions (there is some f/f action in this one...FYI)
ohhh so many choices!I was already planning on reading the 2 next psy-changling books next month (or rather end of this month, into next month)...and then I think i'll try The Darkest Hour and the next book in the Sweet series...and if there is time, then who knows
Daffodil wrote: "Okay Dee, here it is.
Limiting myself to just one suggestion per category is impossible! No really, it actually hurts my head to think of it. LOL. So I gave in and provided a few extra recomme..."
Kami, I'll post your picks tomorrow. I'm just too tired tonight to give it proper thought. Sorry to make you wait.
CathyWe have soooo many books in common that I had a really hard time finding books to recommend that you haven't already read, especially in the UF and PNR categories. I hope you can find something here to interest you.
Historical – Secrets of a Summer Nightby Lisa Kleypas or The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt These are both first in a series of 4 and I loved the entire series!
Contemporary –Talk of the Town by Karen Hawkins This is another first in series. She is still writing this one and I'm anxiously awaiting the next book.
Urban Fantasy –Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs I see you've read the first book and Mercy just keeps getting better and better.
Paranormal Romance (Vampire) –A Rush of Wings by Adrian Phoenix This is a darker series. It reminds me somewhat of the Sharon Ashwood books that I see you've read.
Paranormal Romance (Something other than Vampires)Divine By Mistake by PC Cast I loved this series! (Much better than her House of Night books.)
Sci-Fi / Futuristic Romance –XVI by Julie Karr I have read very little futuristic romance but I did enjoy this YA book.
Romantic Suspense –The Secret History of the Pink Carnation by Lauren Willig I Loooove this whole series. Its a little of everything - historic, romance, mystery, suspense, and contemporary.
Erotic Romance –The Demon's Daughter by Emma Holly Emma Holly writes erotic books that also have a good plot. They combine my favorites - historic PNR with the erotic.
Buddy Read
Eternal Riderby Larissa Ione
I plan on reading this one soon so let me know if you're interested in doing it as a buddy read.
Joyce wrote: "Kami, I'll post your picks tomorrow. I'm just too tired tonight to give it proper thought. Sorry to make you wait."That's okay. Tomorrow is good. I'm just impatient.
Okay I'm finished and no mess up this time!!!:DMy List for Shelley:
Okay so when I made this list I went about picking what I would pick if I was suggesting to someone new to genre, but at the same time we have pretty similar taste, so If I went with my first choices on all of them I think they might all be rereads. LOL! So I will give you a couple picks for each and hopefully you can find something or do a re-read on a favorite! I will try and keep this to the point, but know me I’ll have something to say about each pick :D
♥Historical :
#1: Julia Quinn- It’s In His Kiss (only other book I have read by her) I really love this author and can’t wait to read more! (I was going to suggest #7 in the Bridgerton series because that’s the only one in that series I have read, and then I saw that it was the only one in that series you have read!
#2: Lisa Kleypas- Secrets on a Summers Night #1 in Wallflower series (This author is new to me but I love her)
♥Contemporary:
#1: Rachel Gibson- The Trouble with Valentine’s Day (I know you have read everything by her, but this would be my absolute go to book if I was suggesting CR, !
#2: Erin McCarthy- Mouth to Mouth (I was so glad to find this marked TBR! I love her and this is my favorite book by her, this was my 2nd pick even before I saw it marked in your TBR!
#3: Jill Shalvis- Simply Irresistible #1Lucky Harbor (I had to add Jill Shalvis! I adore her and this is my favorite series from her!
#4: Molly Harper- And One Last Thing (I wasn’t going to add 4 choices, but I couldn’t leave this book out! This is without a doubt one of the funnier books I have ever read!)
♥Urban Fantasy:
#1: Jeaniene Frost- This Side of the Grave (Noticed you have read the rest already, but I had to add this series:)
#2: Patricia Briggs- River Marked (Again you have read the rest of the series, but I have recently started reading the Mercy Thompson series and I LOVE it! Plus I don’t read a lot of UF so my choices are slim. LOL!
#3: Karen Marie Moning- Darkfever (love, love, love this series)
♥Paranormal Romance (Vampire):
#1: Kresley Cole- A Hunger Like No Other #1Immortas After Dark series (This deals with a lot of supernatural creatures, but this one has a half Vamp as heroine, so it works for PNR vamps. This is my favorite PNR series, well this and BDB! There is a short story A Warlord Wants Forever that actually starts series out, but I didn’t read it first and I wasn’t lost.)
#2: Molly Harper- Nice Girls Don’t Have Fangs #1 in Jane Jameson series (These books are freaking HILARIOUS! She has become one of my favorite authors, and I think you would really enjoy her.
#3: Jeaniene Frost- Eternal Kiss of Darkness (I was going to choose First Drop of Crimson, but you had read that, so I went with Mencheres book.
*I should say that if you were truly new to the genre, Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward would be #1 on the list, but I was trying to pick some books you haven’t read :)
♥Paranormal Romance (Something other than Vampires):
#1: Molly Harper- How to Flirt With a Naked Werewolf #1 Naked Werewolf series (I know this is the 3rd Molly Harper selection, but if you give her a chance you’ll see why I put her on the list 3 times!)
#2: Gena Showalter- Awaken Me Darkly #1 Alien Huntress series or (I flip flop back and forth between this series and Lords of the Underworld being my favorite GS series. This first book isn’t my favorite, but it’s still really good, and the series just gets better)
♥Sci-Fi / Futuristic Romance:
#1. Suzanne Collins- The Hunger Games #1 Hunger Games trilogy (I hope this works for this genre, I don’t read a lot in the sub-genre, but I do love this series.)
*I was going to suggest The Host by Stephanie Meyer, but you are currently reading it!
♥Romantic Suspense:
#1: Jennifer Crusie- Maybe This Time (I am actually reading this right now and I’m really into it! I didn’t think this was suspense, but it def. has me on pins and needles waiting to find out what’s up, little bit of a paranormal twist too :)
#2: Jill Shalvis- Get a Clue (This is probably the lighter side of suspense, but it’s a very good read! It was the first book I read from Jill Shalvis, and I fell in love!)
♥Erotic Romance:
#1. Lorelei James- Long Hard Ride #1 Rough Rider Series (I freaking LOVE this series! It is def. steamy, and it was the first of it’s kind I ever read, so I was a little shocked, but I got over it! Those sexy McKay cowboys are HOT!)
#2. Kate Pearce- Simply Sexual #1 House of Pleasure series (I found this series by accident, but it was a happy accident because I ended up really enjoying this series)
♥Buddy Read
#1: Nalini Singh- Archangel’s Consort #3 When I compared books this was the only book we both on our TBR list.
#2: Julia Quinn- The Duke and I #1 Bridgertons series (I thought since we had both read #7 maybe we could buddy read the first in the series! lol
Hope you find some good pick in this list! And I already have both of the buddy read books, so if you are interested in doing the BR let me know:D
Becky wrote: "Autumn wrote: "Hello Becky !! It was really nice having to pick for one of my friends. Not to mention how many books we have in common!! i love your book collection! :)ok,so here goes my pic..."
Yay I'm so glad you liked my picks. :) I would love to read your thoughts.specially since you were peaked by dirty. I really hope you like it . I will pm you when im ready to start with my dearest enemy.
Ps: its your challenge on lk group?? If so, I'm participating in it also ^_^
AshleyAlexis wrote: "Hey Autumn , My picks for you:Historical: Darcy's Voyage
Contemporary: Kiss an Angel(one of my favorite books)
Urban Fantasy: Moon Called---From Merced..."
Thank you for the lovely picks :) I really like the fact that they have broaden my horizons, more books for my exploiting TBR
I will let you know as I go,which books I will pick for this month.
Thank you again for the recs.xxx
I'm not impatient. I'm not, I'm not, I'm not!!!
Shellbelle,Wow! I found some really good things to put on my ever-growing "To-Be Read" list from yours! Whoo hoo! I tried to find things that I thought you'd enjoy from your list, my list, and things that are "out there" that neither of us have tried. I hope you find some good picks from this. :)
Historical I don't really read a great deal of historical fiction. I used to in my teens, but for whatever reason have shifted my reading patterns. In looking at your list, I "re-discovered" some good suggestions and a few that I remember reading way back when, and would like to "re-read" again to enjoy.
1.
Devil's Bride by Stephanie Laurens: I recently "rediscovered" this series and have enjoyed the first few books. The lead, Devil, is definately an Alpha Male, but I enjoy his dedication to family.2.
The Duke & I by Julia Quinn: this one is right off your list, but it's one that I added to mine. It sounds intriguing. Julia Quinn is not an author I've read before.3.
Whitney, My Love by Judith McNaught: I've read this book in my teens, and LOVED it, but had forgotten all about it until I picked up another novel by this author. Contemporary This is another area I have not really read that much, so I trusted your list and picked a couple from there. The first one I suggest is one that I have read recently, and it was very sweet and touching. I've got the rest of the trilogy on my to read list.
1.
Kiss & Tell by Suzanne Brockmann: Very sweet and touching. I would love to visit the Florida Keys where this one is set. Maybe someday...2.
One Reckless Summer by Tori Blake: this one is right off your list, but it's one that I added to mine. It sounds intriguing. I like the idea of going back home to find what you're missing.3.
Just the Sexiest Man Alive by Julie James: I dunno if I could "coach" the Sexiest Man Alive, but it would be interesting to see what kind of coaching a man like that would need.Urban Fantasy This area I've been reading a lot of, both myself and my husband. LOL We tend to recommend back and forth to each other titles in this area.
1.
Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead: I LOVED THIS BOOK!! I couldn't put it down and had to finish in one day. It made me laugh,cry, and go "I know where that is!"2.
Storm Front by Jim Butcher: the beginning of the The Dresden Files series. This book is GREAT! Gotta love Bob. He cracks me up everytime!3.
Glass Houses by Rachel Caine: Another book I couldn't put down. The dialogue between the characters cracked me up and made me cry. Fav Author!Paranormal (Vampire) MMMMMMM vampires :)
1.
Deeper than Midnight by Lara Adrian: I'm enjoying this series, though not to this book yet. :)2.
Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris: You had book #8 read on your list, but why not #1? If you watch the HBO series, True Blood, then you'll enjoy this book. If you've never seen the series this book is MUCH better! Sookie (imo) comes off as a wimp in the tv show, but a strong female character in the book. While the later books are just "okay" the first one is a great read!3.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead: Interesting spin to Vampires. I noticed you read the first book to the P.C. Cast series of Vampires, House of Night . This one is different, and better, imo.Paranormal (not Vampire) This is one of my fav reading. :)
1.
Night Pleasures by Sherilyn Kenyon: The beginning to the Dark-Hunterseries. Again, another book that I couldn't put down, made me laugh, cry, and go "I know where that is", as I lived in Louisianna for several years. Kyrian is an amazing male character. *shiver* Fav Author, BTW!2.
Blood Brothers by Nora Roberts: the beginning of the Sign of 7 series. I just finished this recently and was really suprised by how good it was. The next two of the trilogy is on my hold list @ my local library.3.
Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning: I noticed you read the Fever series (which is great!), so you might enjoy this. It's a different view of the Fae. Adam Black (mentioned in one of the Fever books, can't remember which though) is a key player in several of these novels.Romantic Suspense I don't read a lot of "classic" romantic suspense. Mine tend to be a paranormal spin, but these are great!
1.
Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie: Great beginning to the series. Abby cracks me up! The Detective in here is great eye candy. :)2.
What's a Ghoul to Do? by Victoria Laurie: Again, great beginning to the series! I don't know which I loved more, "Doctor Delicious" or her BF Gilley3.
Guilty Pleasures by Laurel K. Hamilton: Fantastic beginning to the series. Admitedly after book 8, the author takes Anita into places I didn't like. However the first books are amazing. I loved the interaction between Anita and Jean-Claude. I also loved the dectective stories, which was the hook for me when I read these.Sci-fi/Futuristic I don't read much in this area, but there are a few I've found to be good choices.
1.
Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins: I have not read this series, but everyone tells me it's AWESOME.2.
After Dark by Jayne Castle: I remember reading this several years ago, but forgot it. When I saw this on Good reads, I had to add it. :)3.
Naked in Death by J.D. Robb: The beginning to the In Death series. Eve Dallas and Roarke is an amazing pairing. He is the consumate lead, smooth, sophisticated, with a bad boy edge.Erotic Romance I don't read a lot of this area, but these are some possiblities..
1.
Wicked Ties by Shayla Black: I enjoyed the beginning of the Doomsday Brethern series. This has great reviews and looks to be HOT!2.
Tempting the Beast by Lora Leigh: the beginning of the Breeds series. This is an older book, and you may have to find in your library. The plot line of the Genetics Breeding and finding your soul mate is something I'm intrigued by. 3.
Lion's Heat by Lora Leigh: A later book in the Breeds series, but one of my faves. I love Jonas and find his feelings for family very touching. Buddy Read These are some I found that we both have marked to read.
1.
Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh2.
Graceling by Kristin Cashore3.
Seduce Me in Shadow by Shayla BlackWow, I wrote an essay. Hope you find some good picks!
Shellbelle wrote: "Shell wrote: " Hi Shellbelle! Great to meet you! Nice to see a fellow teacher :) I do apologize, but this is a crazy week for me, I'll have recommendations for you by Sat. at the latest! Lookin..."
LOL took me a while cause I kept getting side tracked with "oooh I want to read that", but I hope I did well. :)
Laura wrote: "LaurentiuHere was my process, I started by comparing our books. I quickly found out that we have very few books in common. I didn't recognize too many books that are on your tbr list so I settle..."
The list is good. I'll probably choose between
Emma,The Hunger Games or Just the Sexiest Man Alive.
You probably didn't find lots of similar books in our TBR, but trust me I like pretty much that has a vampire in it; saw Dead Until Dark the tv-series adaptation on HBO, will read it in time.
Thanks again and happy reading
Picks for MelissaHello Melissa. I hope you like your picks:
Historical:
Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning.
I actually don't read a lot of historical romances, and while these aren't strictly historical it is still a good series. It's very different from the Fever series that I see you enjoyed, but I think you'll appreciate the tie-in.
Contemporary
Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James
I don't read a lot of contemporaries, but lately I've read two books by Julie James and I've been pleasantly surprised. I also wanted to suggest this one as a buddy read if you wanted since I haven't read it yet.
Urban Fantasy
Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
This is one of my favorite urban fantasy series. Mercedes Thompson is a fantastic and highly likable character.
Tempest Rising by Nicole Peeler
This is book one in the Jane True series. The thing that I loved about this series is that it is light and fun and quirky. I turn to these books if I need a quick read that is not heavy and deep - as UF tends to be.
PNR - with Vamps
Glass Houses by Rachel Caine
I noticed that there were other YA books that you enjoyed so I thought I would add this series to the mix. I've enjoyed the series so far; they actually remind a lot of books I would have read as a teen.
PNR - non-vamps
A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole
Definitely one of my favorite PNR series! The world Cole has built is rich and fantastic. This first book has a half-vamp as the heroine, but the series as a whole while has a ton of creatures of myth really does a lot of its focus on the Valkyries - so I put it in the non-vamp category.
Caressed By Ice by Nalini Singh
ack! You read the first two books in this phenomenal series and then stopped before reading one of my favorite books in the series. Judd is HOT and he's definitely worth picking up the series again.
Sci-Fi/Future
Poison Study by Maria V Snyder
This is a trilogy that is not sci-fi or future, but looking over the books you've like I really wanted to add this one. So I hope you don't mind but I've shoe-horned it into the sci-fi category. I'll add two more sci-fi/future books to make up for it. Poison Study is more of a fantasy with a sprinkling of romance. The trilogy follows Yelena, who is a convict on death row that is offered a reprieve if she will taste test the Commander's food for poison. Yelena, of course, learns more than about poison; she learns about herself and gains strength and confidence in her abilities. The romance isn't hot so much as sweet.
Grimspace by Ann Aguirre
I didn't read much sci-fi before I read this. I still don't read a lot of it, but because of this series it's really growing on me. This isn't even sort of a light read, but well worth it. It's not a romance, but the one thing that keeps bringing me back is the relationship of the tortured hero and heroine who are learning to live better for each other. It's a hard road for them and I can't help but feel for them and really want their love to make it through their inner demons and the harsh world they live in.
Zinnia by Jayne Castle
This is book 2 of a futuristic romance. I'm normally strict with myself about reading a series in order, but when I got this I had no idea it was in a series and read it and loved it. Then I read book 1 and didn't enjoy that nearly as much. So I'm recommending book 2 instead of book 1.
Romantic Suspense
Extreme Exposure by Pamela Clare
I don't really read romantic suspense. I picked this book up on a whim at a dollar bookstore. I loved it so much I've already read the second book in the series and will definitely read the third soon.
Erotic Romance
Pack Challenge by Shelly Laurenston
Completely wild out-of-the-ordinary characters and absolutely hilarious, not to mention HOT!
Becky wrote: "BetelgeyzeHappy day to you! I had fun looking through your shelves and I hope you find something interesting from these:
Historical
You don't seem to read many of these and I read a lot of thes..."
Thanks for your recommendations Becky. I haven't read much non-erotic contemporary romance, so I will read Blood Brothers by Nora Roberts. Might try some of the other books as well if i have time.
Don't worry those who haven't gotten their picks yet - I'll be updating the list tomorrow, and then sending out reminder emails.
Let me just say - WOW we've got some great recs this month. It's going to be interesting to see what the stats say.
Daffodil wrote: "D.G. I requested a few books from the library: And Then He Kissed Her and Perfect Chemistry are both already in and Practice Makes Perfect is on its w..."
Wow, Daffodil! Your library works fast!
I feel lucky if I get my stuff within a week. :)
Just note that 'And Then He Kisssed Her' is set in Victorian England. I recommended it to somebody else and she was confused because there were phones and how could that be in the in the early 1800s? LOL!
SheSwitches wrote: "D.G. ~Esa Hembra Es Mala~ wrote: "Hahahahaha, SheSwitches! Love that shelf name! I think I'll steal it for my month..."Go for it! I nabbed it from a friend of mine too. The more the merrier. Mayb..."
LOLOL, SheSwitches!
And that's my featured shelf, LOLOLOL!
Jane (PS) - Your picks for me were wonderful.I'm going to go with Darkfever as my main read and I would love to attempt to buddy read Halfway to the Grave with you. I've tried buddy reading a couple of times but have failed horribly but I'm up to try again :)
Hello Joyce, I had fun going through your shelves, I love seeing what people like to read and such. I hope you find something you like in my picks :]
Historical:
Counterfeit Lady The whole James River series is pretty amazing. It's one of the first historical's I picked up and it has stuck with me ever since.
Contemporary:
Talk Me Down Talk Me Down is the first book in the trilogy about some very modern women who are looking for love. There's some steamy love scenes and a lot of laughs to be had along the way.
Urban Fantasy:
Spider's Bite Spider's Bite is a little light on the romance, but I think it does the Urban Fantasy well and its almost always the first book I think of when I think of UF.
Paranormal Romance (vamp):
Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs Once again another 1st book in a series. Cute read, and honestly one of the few vamp books I really enjoy.
Paranormal Romance (non vamp):
The Sword - 1st in a series of 8. Talks about time travel and magic wielding brothers. Seriously I sped through this whole series in less than a week.
Sci-Fi / Futuristic:
Lucan
Romantic Suspense:
White Cat While it is a YA title, and does deal with magic, White Cat is one of those reads that pulls you in. You want to know what happened to the girlfriend and why things are happening.
Erotic Romance:
Backstage Pass
Buddy Read: I've tried buddy reads before but to no avail. I'm willing to try again if you'd like :) I think that Undone from your TBR list looks awesome.
Sorry some of the descriptions are short. I messed up my right hand so typing 1 handed sucks. :(
Hope you find something you like!
-Jess
Hi Jane,Due to my tiny tiny bookshelf, it looks like it took long to come up with these recommendations for you :) (browsing books is something I enjoy)
Historical: This sub-genre was the easiest and I vote for Jane Eyre as this is the only book I read and you didn't. If not, one more stands on both our TBR Outlander it was also recommended for me this month.
Contemporary: From your TBR and a series you've been reading Lover Miner Black dagger Brother Hood 8 or a real emotional romance The Notebook
Urban Fantasy: Let's see what will happen to Katness and Peeta in the Catching Fires Hunger Games 2 by Suzanne Collins.
Paranormal Romance (vampire): I just read The twilight series in this genre but I heard Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead is great. Also Vampire kisses by Ellen Schreiber.
Paranormal Romance: Another good rated series and from your TBR Bonds of Justice Psy-Challenging 8 also book: hush hush by Becca Fitzpatrick recommended on last PTM challenge.
Sci-fi: We both liked Stephenie Meyer in Twilight Series why don't we try The Host the host 1 or the only book I read that meets this sub-genre The Third Twin by Ken Follet.
Romantic Suspense: A fast-paced romantic suspense novel Forget me not Seal Team 12 1 by Marliss Melton or Killer Curves by Roxanne St. Claire
Erotic: I only read 1 or 2 books in this sub-genre (of course due to my tiny tiny bookshelf)I'm not a big fan for Erotic books so what about The Fortune Hunter by Haynes Jasmine
Buddy Read Perfect Chemistry Perfect Chemistry 1 by Simone Elkeles I'm reading it this month how about joining me?
I only want to thank you for accepting me as a friend and hope you find something interesting in this recs.
GOODNESS GRACIOUS! This is a dangerous thread lol.. i want to compulsively read all this great new recs!! damn! i need more hrs in a day !! **sighs**
Yz the Whyz wrote: "~ Debbie ~Just letting you know I'm not ignoring you. :)
I'll be offline most of the weekend, but I'll make sure you get your recs before Monday.
Thanks for the patience."
No problem at all Yz. I can wait - having an extra busy weekend myself. I can't wait to see what you pull out for me :)
Shea wrote: "Hey Shell, I hope you will find something you like in here!These are my recommendations for you:
Ohhh Shea, there are some good picks there. I think I'm gonna select
Flat-Out Sexy I don't read enough contemporary and that one looks to be really hot! Lucky me the library has it on their shelves! Off to snag it quick. Thanks so much for the recs. I added several to my "to read list" for future. I think I went overboard on reading this month. I've not been able to finish any of the previous months' challenges, not for lack of trying. I keep picking books without checking @ the library to see their in first. Guess I need to check around before I sign up, but I just get into the "ohhhh I gotta read that" and then commit before I know if I can find the book. LOL
HI GiGIThis was a bit challenging and I hope something here works for you. I did see that a couple of my recommends (faves) are on your tbr. To stick to just one book in some of these categories was not possible.
Historical
The Warrior by Kinley MacGregor.
Kinley MacGregor is Sherilyn Kenyon. As I am a huge fan of Kenyon I decided to read one of her historicals last year although historical is not my favorite romance sub genre I did enjoy it.
Contemporary
Causing Havoc by Lori Foster
Say no to Joe by Lori Foster
Ok so Lori Foster is one of my favorite authors. I saw both of these on your TBR. Either of these books are great and are both from two different series. If I were to chose my favorite series it would be Causing Havoc. It is a series of books about UFC (type) fighters and is super hot stuff!
Urban Fantasy
Undead and Unwed by Mary Janice Davidson
This series is about the Vampire Queen Betsey . There are several books in this series. The series focuses on Betsey and her mate Sinclair. The books are light quick reads and you will actually laugh out loud reading them. Betseys sarcastic wit will have you in stitches.
Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost
Oh Gosh I love this series. "The Night Huntress " The main characters through out this series are Cat and Bones. It is sure to please you as I see we have similiar tastes in the ratings of many books we have both read.
Paranormal Romance (vamp)
I see that you read some of the Black Dagger Brotherhood series so I will recommend you continue with those books. I love the brothers!
Paranormal Romance (non Vamp)
Angels Blood by Nalini Singh
Ok this series is new to me and I am on book two. I loved Angels Blood which is book one. It is a series about Angels. It is a hot romance between Hunter borne Human Elena Devereaux and a dangerous sexy archangel name Raphael. Therre are some vamps in this book as well but they are more supporting characters .
Sci-fi/ Futureistic
Born of Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon
I love Kenyon!
Romantic Suspense
"In Death" books by JD ROBB
I see you have some on your to be read list. I love Eve and Roarke. I find when I get burned out on a particular genre or series or author etc I can cleanse with JD Robb. lol
Erotic Romance
Pleasure Unbound by Larisa Ione
Eternal Rider by Larisa Ione
Like previous comments I have read others write on this category. I am not sure how hot you like your books but boy this author writes some pretty spicey stuff with actual good story lines attached. i really do enjoy her books.
Buddy Read
I see we both have Dark Prince by Christine Feehan on our TBR . Now they just re released this one in hard cover. I have purchased it and have not read it yet. I am looking forward to reading it soon.
Well I hope what ever book you choose you enjoy as much as I have.
Jess wrote: "Jane (PS) - Your picks for me were wonderful.I'm going to go with Darkfever as my main read and I would love to attempt to buddy read Halfway to the Grave with you. I..."
I'm so pleased you like the picks Jess!
Would love to try a buddy-read. I really want to read Halfway to the Grave - this is my excuse to bump it up the pile! My BR in April was a bit of a failure - I was meant to read City of Bones with Sandy, but I didn't get to it until last week... (I've read it now though - very good YA book.) Let's keep in touch - I'm thinking I'll be ready sometime in the second half of the month...
Isabella wrote: "Hi Jane,Due to my tiny tiny bookshelf, it looks like it took long to come up with these recommendations for you :) (browsing books is something I enjoy)
Historical: This sub-genre was the easies..."
Thanks Isabella - I loved these picks :) There are some authors and books I haven't heard of before, so I had to spend some time working out what to do. I've added to my TBR ;)
I think I'll go with Bonds of Justice but may yet swap it out (or read as well) one of the following - Jane Eyre, Catching Fire, Lover Mine or Forget Me Not. (You can see my problems choosing.) I'll probably leave the other YA for now - I seem to have read a LOT of them lately :) ...And one day I will get to Outlander, but I feel I need some 'time' on my side for that one...
Thanks again for the great picks!
hey Jane wanna do an unofficial buddy read of Bonds of Justice? I should be starting it relatively early in the month - I'm about halfway done with Blaze of Memory right now
Delicious Dee Challenge Addict wrote: "hey Jane wanna do an unofficial buddy read of Bonds of Justice? I should be starting it relatively early in the month - I'm about halfway done with Blaze of Memory right now"I'm in! Bonds of Justice it is!
When do you think you'll be ready? I've just started Forbidden Magic (it is one of my 'clean up' books from my own personal challenge) but I'm only at Chapter 2. I could put it aside and start one of my shorter books, although at the pace you read, you'll probably be ready to start BOJ tomorrow ;)
probably around wednesday-ish...I'm working this weekend, so no kindle, for me to read it, so would the nwork
Great! - I'll plan to start then :)
Gail wrote: "HI GiGIThis was a bit challenging and I hope something here works for you. I did see that a couple of my recommends (faves) are on your tbr. To stick to just one book in some of these categorie..."
Hi Gail!! Thanks for the great recs! I'm having a hard time deciding which one to read. I may read the next BDB book. I'll keep you posted! Thanks again!
Tania - If you need anyone to rec, let me know!
hey Pam here are the books i picked for you, I hope you like what i have picked for you, this is my first time picking books for someone else i hope i did good =)Historical:
Shadow Music By Julie Garwood
- this book is part of the Highlands' Lairds series but i believe it is a good independent read. This was my first ever adult romance novel, i love it so much that i have read it more than 4 times =) i hope u love it too
Contemporary:
Opposites Attract By Hailey North
Urban Fantasy:
How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf By Molly Harper
- I am not really sure what a urban fantasy is but this part of the list on goodread and i just read the book last week and it is a good read
Paranormal Romance (Vampire):
A Quick Bite By Lynsay Sands
- This book is the 1st book in Argeneau series, i saw that you had book #7 in your to read list but could not find any other book from the series in your read list so i thought why not get you started on the series...i have read every book in the series and they are all very good this one is really cute and funny =)
Paranormal Romance:
Slave to Sensation By Nalini Singh
- Hope you read the other books in this series too they are all great =)
Sci-Fi / Futuristic Romance:
Hello, Gorgeous! By MaryJanice Davidson
Romantic Suspense:
Heartbreaker By Julie Garwood
Erotic Romance:
Claimed by the Wolf By Charlene Teglia
-I have to warn you that this book is very erotic, the main character has to sleep with a lot of men and sometimes 2 or more at a time
Buddy read:
The Darkest Hour By Maya Banks
-I say this book in your "to read" and i have to read it for this challenge so lets both read it =)
Tania, I can do recs, too, if you need someone :)
Romance Readers Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Dead Until Dark (other topics)The Darkest Hour (other topics)
The Time Traveler's Wife (other topics)
Perfect Chemistry (other topics)
The Iron Duke (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Maya Banks (other topics)Rachel Caine (other topics)
Karen Marie Moning (other topics)
Ilona Andrews (other topics)
MaryJanice Davidson (other topics)
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Thank you Sue! This list is awesome!!
My TBR shelf is horrible, I'm constantly adding books to that thing! The Jane Eyre pick was great, because I just got a really nice leatherbound copy last weekend and was wanting to start it soon! The BDB books by Ward are on my TBR shelf too so I'm going to read those as well! I think I've read a Jennifer Cruise book a long time ago and enjoyed it so I'm excited to get back to her and catch up on the good ones! I've created a shelf just for my May PIFM books and hopefully I'll be able to read all of them this month!
Wow, that's a lot to try and read in one month! I'm glad you liked the selections. And I always seem to add more to my wishlist after reading all of the selections.
(I logged on to my parent's computer for a break during my move.)