One Book For Each Genre! (2011-2012)

[Cesy]

I cant seem to continue with So Shelly i have read more than 40 pages and i just cant finish it. I will change it to a different book for that genre.

[Fran, Moderator]

Cesilia wrote: "I cant seem to continue with So Shelly i have read more than 40 pages and i just cant finish it. I will change it to a different book for that genre."

OK Cesilia, hope you like the next pick better!

[Dee]

Cesilia - that sucks!! not that it was on my TBR, but it def. won't be going there now ;)

[Cesy]

Dee wrote: "Cesilia - that sucks!! not that it was on my TBR, but it def. won't be going there now ;)"

It does suck cause i read the reviews and it sounded really good. I'll probably give it other chance but not right now.

[Vi]

Fran wrote: "Vi,

Wow! You are speeding through the genres! An Unforgettable Lady sounds good, I've never read anything by JR Ward as Jessica Bird. "

Nah, only because I managed to use the books in the monthly and the other challenges. I think 6+ of the monthly challenge books are books from this list. So I was lucky.

Fran, if you like good Rom-Susp (though the suspense actual was low) or contemporary, you should give this a try.

[Dee]

you might just not have been in the right mood - that being said, the references to keats and shelly...lol, I dislke their poetry, so I don't know if i would like fiction featuring them

[Vi]

Rossy wrote: "I started that one not long ago, but had to put it on pause. I really loved the author's other works, so it took me a while to figure out why i was not getting into this one. I just can't seem to relate to characters older than in their 40s. "

I realized the book had a 50+ old characters only after I started the book (shows how well I read the back cover). Even then I was apprehensive, though thankfully, the book spends much time when they were younger. Of the characters in the present, the only character I could relate to was the teenage daughter :P

[Cesy]

Dee wrote: "you might just not have been in the right mood - that being said, the references to keats and shelly...lol, I dislke their poetry, so I don't know if i would like fiction featuring them"

You're probably right lol

[Cesy]

Fran wrote: "Cesilia wrote: "I cant seem to continue with So Shelly i have read more than 40 pages and i just cant finish it. I will change it to a different book for that genre."

OK Cesilia, ..."

Thanks fran :)

[Fran, Moderator]

Cesilia wrote: "Fran wrote: "Cesilia wrote: "I cant seem to continue with So Shelly i have read more than 40 pages and i just cant finish it. I will change it to a different book for that genre."

O..."

Cesilia,

If you need any YA recs let me know, I've read some really good ones recently and I bet others here have too :)

[Cesy]

Fran wrote: "Cesilia wrote: "Fran wrote: "Cesilia wrote: "I cant seem to continue with So Shelly i have read more than 40 pages and i just cant finish it. I will change it to a different book for..."

Yeah i would love some recommendations :)

[Fran, Moderator]

My favorite YA-

, ,

[Vi]

OK, a quick peek at your read shelves and I can give these recs in addition to Fran's

1. Check out Rick Riordan - or

2. Check out Sarah Dessen since you like Elizabeth Scott, Susane Colasanti - ,

3.

4.

5.

[Cesy]

Thanks vi and fran youre awesome! Ive read scotts, colasanti and the twilight series. But im interested in the rest

[Rossy]

Cesilia wrote: "I cant seem to continue with So Shelly i have read more than 40 pages and i just cant finish it. I will change it to a different book for that genre."

Remember, you need to discuss in your next update, why the book didn't work for you. Also, this is the only book you can exchange for the remaining of the dare.

[Sassafrass]

One Book For Each Genre Challenge
July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)

2/11 completed

√Contemporary: Undeniably Yours completed 8/7/11
√Erotic: Changing the Game completed 8/6/11
BDSM: Roped In
GLBT: (f/f) Heart of Change
Historical OR Regency: It Happened One Autumn
Paranormal: Elijah
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Confessions of a Shopaholic
World Lit/International: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
Young Adult: The Hunger Games

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: Pride and Prejudice
Memoir OR Non-fiction: Foxy: My Life in Three Acts
Thriller OR Horror: Before I Go to Sleep
Religious OR Inspirational: By Reason of Insanity
Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia: Matched

Discussion:
Erotic: This is one of my usual genres so I was totally in my element. Changing the Game is the second book in the Play by Play series by Jaci Burton. I really liked this one but some of it annoyed me. But, I love dominant men and strong women who like to be a submissive in the bedroom, so while not a BDSM book, it was right up my alley.

Contemporary: Undeniably Yours is the second book in the Kowalskis series by Shannon Stacey. I really liked her voice and even though I wasn't totally fond of the heroine, I LOVED the hero. Full review found here:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

[Ola]

2/10 Completed

Contemporary: No One Lives Twice by Julie Moffet.
√Erotic Or BDSM: Dare to Dominate By Claire Thompson Completed 12/8.
√GLBT: Hot Head By Damon Suede. Completed 22/8.
Historical: The Deed By Lynsay Sands.
Paranormal: Succubus Revealed By Rachelle Mead.
Suspense Or Mystery: Still Missing By Chevy Steves.
Women's Fiction Or Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ... By Molly Harper.
World Lit: The Kite Runner By Khaled Hussinay.
Young Adult: Ten Things We Did By Sarah Mlynowsk.

Bonus
Classic: Pride and Prejudice By Jane Auston.


DISCUSION

GLBT:Hot Head By Damon Suede (m/m)

it's not the first time to read this genre, but i didn't like this book as i thought i would, it was one sided, and i see that it could have been better .. but the italian guy was really cute,funny and possessive, and sure being in uniform added them couple of notches, it was Okay reading, not like carol lynne's books,which were much more emotional
... but i guess what just made it "okay" to me is the one sided thing.

[Wan]

Dare You To Read - One Book For Each Genre (Round 2)
30th July '11 to 30th June '12
1/9 completed

1.Contemporary: Hot Finish by Erin McCarthy
2.Erotic: Broken Wings by Lora Leigh
3.GLBT: Cut & Run by Madeleine Urban
4.Historical: The Wild Rose by Jennifer Donnelly
5.Paranormal: Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian 8/11 (4)
6.Suspense/Mystery: Zinnia by Jayne Castle
7.Chick-lit: Hard Day's Knight by Katie MacAlister
8.International(Hungary): The Darkest Surrender by Gena Showalter
9.Young Adult: Glass Houses by Rachel Caine 8/21 (2.5)


Discussion: Have I read this genre and what did I think of this book/author?

5. PNR: Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian - I love PNR. It is pretty much my main genre. I love LOTU and Night Huntress. This book is a combination of the two. So, yeah, I love this series too. A lot of people compared it to BDB series. Well, I have not read them yet but I take there words for it.:) This is my first book of this author. And I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.

9. YA:Glass Houses by Rachel Caine. This is my first Rachel Caine book. It was okay for me. I just don't like the mean-girls versus prodigy theme (in general nothing personal). The vamp and ghost were kinda thrown in but really no value added. If you took them out, you won't miss anything. -- It has potenital I guess but I'm not sure at this point that I will read the second book. -- However, having said all of that. I love YA genre in general and will continue reading it.

[MountainKat, Moderator]

Dare You to Read - One Book For Each Genre (2011-2012)

July 30, 2011 to June 30, 2012

6 of 14 read. Updated 8.23.11

Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton
✓Erotic: Sweet Surrender by Maya Banks 8.15.11
GLBT: Hot Head by Damon Suede
✓Historical: That Perfect Someone by Johanna Lindsey 8.11.11
Paranormal: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian
✓Suspense: Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare 8.6.11
✓Chick-lit: Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich 8.22.11
World Lit/International: The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson
Young Adult: Before Green Gables by Budge Wilson

Bonus Categories:
Classic:To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
✓Memoir: Mennonite in a Little Black Dress by Rhoda Janzen 8.12.11
Thriller: The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
✓Religious: A Very Special Delivery by Linda Goodnight 8.21.11
Dystopia: Soulless by Gail Carriger



Discussion - Have I read this genre and what did I think of this book/author?
Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare - I love romantic suspense! It seems some of the best book I have read this year fall into this category. This is the third book in Pamela Clare's I-Team series, I read the first two earlier this year and I have to ask myself why did I wait so long to get back to this series!?! Ms. Clare is an amazing author, she moves me so deeply with her writing! So many things that happened in this book would have been wrong if handled differently - they even felt wrong in this book, but in the end I was able to excuse them. There were so many levels of gray in this book; good guys doing bad for all the right reasons, bad guys who looked like good guys... An awesome love story with a wonderful ending. I loved it! *5 Stars*

That Perfect Someone by Johanna Lindsey - Johanna Lindsey wrote the book that hooked me on romance after having just started reading again after stopping while my kids were young, so I have a real soft spot for her books. That said, some of her recent books haven't always lived up to my memories. I'm happy to say this one did! I really enjoyed this book, it was sweet and funny. But don't read it thinking you are going to be reading a book about one of the Malorys - several of them are in it, even somewhat prominently, but neither the hero or the heroine is related in any way no matter how distant. I liked it anyway. =)

Mennonite in a Little Black Dress by Rhoda Janzen - I don't often read this genre, but I really enjoyed this one! I liked reading about the author's journey from a rather low point in her life, her husband of 15 years left her for "a guy named Bob from gay.com" and recovering from a serious car accident, back home to her roots. She had to come to terms with her choices and even her prejudices. It was enlightening and thought provoking. It was also laugh out loud funny. The author's humor was ever present, even while addressing the destruction of her marriage. I found that admirable. I listened to the audio version and thought that the book was well suited for that and the narrator, Hillary Huber, was also quite good.

Sweet Surrender by Maya Banks - Yeppers, I do like some smut in my romance on occasion! No comment on how frequent that occasion is... But to like it I do require a story and characters I like. This book had both. =) I was a little surprised at how sweet it was (yes, even with Sweet in the title), so that was an added plus. I have only read Maya Banks' Romantic Suspense before and loved them, but had heard that her erotica wasn't as good so I didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised - that is always a good thing!

A Very Special Delivery by Linda Goodnight - Not something I would normally pick up. I don't particularly enjoy religious books, I usually find faith something too individual to feel right while reading about it in a story. And I hate being preached to in my books. While religion was quite prevalent in this book, it was, fortunately for my tastes, directed inward towards the main characters. It was about how their lives needed God, not how everyone did. It was their personal struggles to overcome their pasts and how their faith helped them find their future together. So, IMO, it was a nice story - rather religious, but not overly preachy.

Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich - Chick -it is just OK for me. I typically find the heroine in the story a little annoying. I do like Janet Evanovich's style, but it isn't something I could read too often - I think I might find it as annoying as most chick-lit heroines if I did. I guess I am just one of the people who isn't going to be head over heels for these books. I like them well enough, but I just don't think I am going to rush through the series. For me Stephanie and crew are just going to be filler books here and there and that's OK.

[Tuğçe]

I started a bit slow I suppose, well I am generally slow in reading this month but I am totally enjoying whatever I read. I am about to finish The Reluctant Dom but before that I have finished MockingJay on Monday and forgot to post.

2/14 Completed

Contemporary: Causing Havoc
Erotic OR BDSM: The Reluctant Dom
GLBT: Touch Me Gently
Historical OR Regency: The Bride 08/04 ***
Paranormal OR Fantasy: A Hunger Like No Other
Suspense OR Mystery: All The Pretty Dead Girls
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: My Sister's Keeper
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate
Young Adult: Amy & Roger's Epic Detour

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: The Age of Innocence
Memoir OR Non-fiction: A Short History of Nearly Everything
Thriller OR Horror: The Passage
Religious OR Inspirational: One Tuesday Morning
Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia: Mockingjay 08/22 *****

Discussion
Historical : The Bride

This one was not quite as good as my previous Garwood. I enjoyed it but I must admit I still prefer Honor's Splendour better. I think it kills the fun to read Julie Garwood books quite frequent, the stories are pretty similar so I started to get bored at some parts. Jamie (still like Madeleine more) made me laugh out loud quite a few times :) And I liked Alec (loved Duncan and Ian), but still the whole story made me feel like, it was forced a little. And Jamie was sometimes unrealistically naive :D

Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia:Mockingjay

I loved this series and I am sad that it has finished. I was reluctant when I have started to read the first book a few months ago but now I am glad I have read it. This book was a little more about Katniss's inner thoughts but just loved it.I always like to hear thoughts and description of how one feels inside. I was always in Team Peeta so I am happy with ending. I usually hate it when everything is wrapped up in a HEA way because writers can go way too much to achieve that but in this one so many bad things happened that I was looking forward to a HEA :) Now I am waiting to see the movie :)

[Vi]

I really should read the Hunger Games trilogy soon. I just can't seem to find the time :(

[Nalnac]

One Book For Each Genre Challenge
July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 24th 2011)

Hi everyone.. and sorry I am late!

Contemporary: Atonement by Ian McEwan
Erotic OR BDSM: Little Birds by Anais Nin
GLBT: Str8te Boys by Evangeline Anderson
Historical OR Regency: Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke's Heart by Sarah MacLean
Paranormal OR Fantasy: Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt
Suspense OR Mystery: Hard Evidence by Pamela Clare
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: A Lot Like Love by Julie James
World Lit/International: The Snow Child: A Novel by Eowyn Ivey (Alaska) - pub. 1st Feb. 2012
Young Adult: Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins - pub. 29th Sept. 2011

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:

Classic: Lady Susan, The Watsons, Sanditon by Jane Austen
Memoir OR Non-fiction: Henry and June: From "A Journal of Love" - The Unexpurgated Diary of Anaïs Nin by Anais Nin
Thriller OR Horror: Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion
Religious OR Inspirational: - NO THANKS -
Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia: Insurgent by Veronica Roth - pub. 28th Apr. 2012

[Fran, Moderator]

Welcome Nanalla!

Your list looks great, I actually just went and borrowed Str8te Boys after seeing it on your list!

[Nalnac]

Thanks Fran!
It took me a while to decide what to read!

I am not very familiar with the GLBT genere, but I have just read a truly beautiful YA book called Brooklyn, Burning.. and I highly recommend it.

..'Sr8te Boys' should be fun I hope ;)

[Fran, Moderator]

Wow, that does look great, I added it to my tbr.

[Nalnac]

I hope you like it as much as I did!

[Dee]

I haven't read Str8te boys, but i really enjoyed Broken Boundaries by her - unfortuntely, she isn't planning on revisiting that world anytime soon :(

[Lynne]

One Book For Each Genre!
July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012
1 of 24 Complete!

CATEGORIES:
1. Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton
√ 2. Erotic: Dare to Believe by Dana Marie Bell – 8/25
3. GLBT: Wolf Tales III by Kate Douglas
4. Historical: A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught
5. Regency: What Happens in London by Julia Quinn
6. Paranormal: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian
7. Fantasy: Crown of Crystal Flame by C. L. Wilson
8. Suspense: No Regrets by Shannon K. Butcher
9. Mystery: Heat Wave by Richard Castle
10. Women’s Fiction: How to Bake a Perfect Life by Barbara O’Neal
11. Chick-Lit: Size 12 Is Not Fat by Meg Cabot
12. World Lit: Wife of the Gods: A Novel by Kwei Quartey
13. International: Lily of the Nile by Stephanie Dray
14. Young Adult: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins



OPTIONAL/BONUS CATEGORIES:
15. Classic: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
16. Memoir: Moab Is My Washpot by Stephen Fry
17. Non-fiction: Sh*t My Dad Says by Justin Halpern
18. Thriller: The Angel Experiment by James Peterson
19. Horror: The Devouring by Simon Holt
20. Religious / Inspirational: Leaving Carolina by Tamara Leigh
21. Speculative Fiction: Ashes, Ashes by Jo Treggiari
22. Dystopia: Delirium by Lauren Oliver
23. Graphic Novel:Mercy Thompson: Homecoming by Patricia Briggs
24. Manga: ??





Have I tried this genre before and what did I think of this book?

2. Erotic: Dare to Believe by Dana Marie Bell – I’ve read this genre before and usually enjoy it when there is a storyline and character development. I liked Dare to Believe. It’s the first in her “Grey Court” series. I’ve read some of Ms. Bell’s Shifter series and really enjoyed them. All the books that I’ve read of hers have delightful characters with lots of funny humor. This series is set in the world of the Fae and I really joyed it. I loved the evolution of the H/h relationship and the heroine's great sense of humor while coming to terms with the reality of who and what the hero is. Fun read.

[Dee]

Current Status - 2/23 - yes, I know i'm an overachiever!

Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive
Erotic: Raine
BDSM: Ice Queen
GLBT: Divide and Conquer (not in GR yet) - available in October
Historical: Burning Tigress
Regency: A Secret Affair
Paranormal: Immortal Rider - to be released in December
Fantasy: Drink Deep (Urban Fantasy) - to be released in November
Suspense: Breaking the Rules (romantic suspense)
Mystery: In the Bleak Midwinter
Women's Fiction: Night Road
Chick-lit: The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing
World Lit/International: Wife of the Gods: A Novel (Ghana, Africa)
Young Adult: Bumped

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: Agnes Grey
Memoir: Zoya's Story: An Afghan Woman's Struggle for Freedom - Finished - August 9, 2011 - I love reading memoirs because they are all so unique - some sad and some happy - this one fell right in the middle of the genre to me - it was the story of Zoya (who is not her real name) who is working to help liberate the women in Afghanistan...she grew up there and then escaped to Pakistan after her parents were killed by the Taliban. I will def. keep reading this genre.
Non-fiction: Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything - Finished - August 24, 2011 - for me non-fiction is either really good or really bad - because this was based on economics I wasn't expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised - the book was simple to read and make sense, even though it was published in the early 1990's - I think for me, the best chapter was the one about an individuals' name and its relationship to whether a person gets a job interview or not...and definately made me laugh, because I have had some head scratching moments when i've been like, you names you kid what?? - will def. be reading more by this guy and in the genre
Thriller: Fallen (shelved by 11 as thriller)
Horror: Let the Right One in
Religious: Drums of Change: The Story of Running Fawn
Inspirational: Christmas Jars
Speculative Fiction: 11/22/63: A Novel (alternate history) - to be released in November
Dystopia: Crossed - to be released in November/December

[Vi]

One Book For Each Genre Challenge
Progress: 7/18

1. Contemporary: An Unforgettable Lady by Jessica Bird - 19/08/11 - ★★★★
2. Erotic: Sweet Surrender by Maya Banks
3. GLBT: Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
4. Historical: The Marsh King's Daughter by Elizabeth Chadwick
5. Regency: Silk Is for Seduction by Loretta Chase - 07/08/11 - ★★★★
6. Fantasy: The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting - 2/8/11 - ★★★
7. Paranormal Grave Witch by Kalayna Price - 10/08/11 - ★★★★
8. Suspense: Black Ice by Anne Stuart
9. Mystery: The Bay At Midnight by Diane Chamberlain - 19/8/11 - ★★★★
10. Women's Fiction: Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah - 3/8/11 - ★★★★
11. Chick-Lit: The Art of Seducing a Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper
12. World Lit: Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
13. Young Adult: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness - 26/8/11 ★★★★★

Optional Categories

14. Classic: I, Robot by Isaac Asimov
15. Horror: Let the Right One in by John Ajvide Lindqvist
16. Thriller: Postmortem by Patricia Cornwell
17. Speculative: Doomsday Book by Connie Willis
18. Dystopia: Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde


Discussion

1. The Body Finder - It was quite different from what I expected when I read the blurb. The friends-to-lovers portion of the H/h was quite well done. The author managed to avoid (for the most part) the big misunderstanding. But the heroine did tend to have some almost-TSTL moments. The story line and way the parents and the family seem acceptive of the heroine's gift was a nice touch. All in a all, a nice absorbing and a pleasant read.

2. Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah - I've only read one women's fiction - Good in Bed which I didn't like. So I was a bit apprehensive when I started this book. I am happy to say that I loved this book. I loved the character and friendship theme that was prevalent in the book. I cried at the end too. I'll most likely check out the author's other books as well.

3. Silk Is for Seduction by Loretta Chase - I used to read historic and regency romance almost exclusively last year and burnt myself out. BUT Loretta Chase still remains one of the few authors who can make me read the genre again. I loved the main characters, I loved the way they fell in love. And I could suspend disbelief enough to accept the ending. And this book entertained me well enough during the 4 hours flight trip. Needless to say, I will definitely be picking up the next book by this author.

4. Grave Witch by Kalayna Price - A bit of cheating since I read this book last year when it came out due to the unique premise. I wanted to read it again before reading its sequel ( I hate this 1 year waits between books in a series). My impressions remains the same from the first time I read it. Death personnified makes me scoff a bit but Alex is a compelling character and thus, makes the read very enjoyable. The world building is good and at the end you are left wanting more. Also, there seems to be a love triangle but that is secondary to Alex.

5. The Bay At Midnight by Diane Chamberlain - This is the first time I'm trying out this author. I was intrigued by the story line. The book has alternating POV from 3 different characters as they narrate a childhood horror. My heart broke for Maria and Julie as they each talk about their childhood and how they tried to survive the tragedy. But it is also about love and forgiveness. It has a 50+ lead characters finding love again. I felt the mystery was a bit lacking as I could guess the whodunnit at nearly the three-quarters point. But I would recommend this book for anyone willling to try out a neat mystery.

6. An Unforgettable Lady by Jessica Bird - Jessica Bird is alternate name of J.R. Ward. I don't seem to love BDB series as much as the others since I can't go past book #4 (I think). But this book is labelled as a romantic-suspense which I will read any time. The chemistry between the lead characters was burning off the pages. The heroine is strong, rich and sexy and her character growth was what made this book awesome for me. Though, at one point, I just wanted to shout at the male lead - enough already! Just go and do it. The male lead also tended to alpha-hole territory but he groveled just enough to make me forgive me. Hmm, maybe Grace should have let him grovel a bit more at the end...?

7. A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness - OMG, this was an amazing amazing book. This book deals with Conor, 13 year old, whose life is messed up. His mother is losing the battle against cancer; he's getting bullied at school. And he's slowly becoming invisible at school. Added to that fact is that he's getting visited by a monster who will tell 3 true stories but the fourth must the true tale of Conor's life. I am so so glad I read this book. The stories told by the monster speak of humanity and applies to all people - not just the intended audience. It deals with self-esteem and forgiving oneself and others. I bawled myself out while reading (TG I was home) so keep some tissues handy! Highly recommended.

[Jane (PS), Moderator]

Completed: 2/12

1. Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive
2. Erotic: Roane
3. GLBT: Caught Running
4. Historical: Miss Wonderful
5. Paranormal: Wild Fire - √ 16-Aug
6. Suspense: Murder Game
7. Women's Fiction: And One Last Thing ...
8. World Literature: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
9. Young Adult: City of Ashes

Bonus:
10. Classic: The Picture of Dorian Gray
11. Non-fiction: Lonely for my Land
12. Dystopia: Animal Farm - √ 23-Aug


Discussion:
Have I tried this genre before?
Well I don't really know - I guess so. But it isn't a genre I read regularly 'cos it isn't the HEA I so enjoy.

What did you think of this book/author?
I thought it was great and really enjoyed it! I'm not sure why it hadn't been part of my school curriculum - it is such a light and humorous look at society with it's manipulators and the silent majority. This is the sort of book that you think back on with fondness. (Squealer - the propaganda pig who skips from side to side and wiggles his tail, keeps jumping into my mind! I suspect he'll be front and centre as I watch the TV coverage of the next election :)

This was an audiobook - the narrator was excellent and I loved that between each chapter there was a short except of 'Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy'. Delightful addition.

[Tuğçe]

3/14 Completed

Contemporary: Causing Havoc
Erotic OR BDSM: The Reluctant Dom 08/25 ***
GLBT: Touch Me Gently
Historical OR Regency: The Bride 08/04 ***
Paranormal OR Fantasy: A Hunger Like No Other
Suspense OR Mystery: All The Pretty Dead Girls
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: My Sister's Keeper
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate
Young Adult: Amy & Roger's Epic Detour

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: The Age of Innocence
Memoir OR Non-fiction: A Short History of Nearly Everything
Thriller OR Horror: The Passage
Religious OR Inspirational: One Tuesday Morning
Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia: Mockingjay 08/22 *****

Discussion
Historical : The Bride

This one was not quite as good as my previous Garwood. I enjoyed it but I must admit I still prefer Honor's Splendour better. I think it kills the fun to read Julie Garwood books quite frequent, the stories are pretty similar so I started to get bored at some parts. Jamie (still like Madeleine more) made me laugh out loud quite a few times :) And I liked Alec (loved Duncan and Ian), but still the whole story made me feel like, it was forced a little. And Jamie was sometimes unrealistically naive :D

Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia: Mockingjay

I loved this series and I am sad that it has finished. I was reluctant when I have started to read the first book a few months ago but now I am glad I have read it. This book was a little more about Katniss's inner thoughts but just loved it.I always like to hear thoughts and description of how one feels inside. I was always in Team Peeta so I am happy with ending. I usually hate it when everything is wrapped up in a HEA way because writers can go way too much to achieve that but in this one so many bad things happened that I was looking forward to a HEA :) Now I am waiting to see the movie :)

Erotic OR BDSM: The Reluctant Dom

I have read this genre before and I enjoyed my previous reads more at least if I am asked about the genre. I like the story in this book but some parts were never realistic to me. Curing a psychological problem with BDSM didn't seemed normal and realistic to me really. And Kade being sooooo very understanding and wise and accepting while he was dying don't know ... And it took him ages to die. I liked Seth liked the authors way of describing his struggles although Kaden is dying bit started to annoy after sometime... Over all it was not a bad read.

[Sassafrass]

One Book For Each Genre Challenge
July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)

3/16 completed

√Contemporary: Undeniably Yours completed 8/7/11
√Erotic: Changing the Game completed 8/6/11
BDSM: Roped In
GLBT: (f/f) Heart of Change
Historical OR Regency: It Happened One Autumn
√Paranormal: Elijah completed 8/25/11
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Confessions of a Shopaholic
World Lit/International: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
Young Adult: The Hunger Games

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: Pride and Prejudice
Memoir OR Non-fiction: Foxy: My Life in Three Acts
Thriller OR Horror: Before I Go to Sleep
Religious OR Inspirational: By Reason of Insanity
Speculative Fiction OR Dystopia: Matched

Discussion:
Erotic: This is one of my usual genres so I was totally in my element. Changing the Game is the second book in the Play by Play series by Jaci Burton. I really liked this one but some of it annoyed me. But, I love dominant men and strong women who like to be a submissive in the bedroom, so while not a BDSM book, it was right up my alley.

Contemporary: Undeniably Yours is the second book in the Kowalskis series by Shannon Stacey. I really liked her voice and even though I wasn't totally fond of the heroine, I LOVED the hero. Full review found here:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

Paranormal: Elijah is the 3rd book in the Nightwalkers series by Jacquelyn Frank. I'm new to the series, but I have truly fallen in love with. I think the world-building and the lore behind the Nightwalkers are both fantastic. I have listened to this series on Audio and the Narrator Xe Sands is just amazing. I think she has made the whole series for me.

[Jane (PS), Moderator]

Completed: 3/12

1. Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive
2. Erotic: Roane
3. GLBT: Caught Running
4. Historical: Miss Wonderful
5. Paranormal: Wild Fire - √ 16-Aug
6. Suspense: Murder Game
7. Women's Fiction: And One Last Thing ...
8. World Literature: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
9. Young Adult: City of Ashes - √ 28-Aug

Bonus:
10. Classic: The Picture of Dorian Gray
11. Non-fiction: Lonely for my Land
12. Dystopia: Animal Farm - √ 23-Aug


Discussion:
Have I tried this genre before?
Yes - I try a bit of YA every few months. Some are successful, some less so...

What did you think of this book/author?
This is the second in the trilogy; not as good as the first book but the action kept me interested. I have to admit, the first third of the story was a bit of slog - whilst it was enjoyable, it wasn't riveting and I had to convince myself that it was a good idea to keep reading.

I am a bit over the love triangles that litter the past and present in this storyline. This seems to be a favourite plot tool of YA authors. I don't like love triangles... at all.

I ending up thinking it was a very solid 3.5 stars. I'll read the third book City of Glass for closure.

[MountainKat, Moderator]

Dare You to Read - One Book For Each Genre (2011-2012)

July 30, 2011 to June 30, 2012

7 of 14 read. Updated 8.28.11

Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton
✓Erotic: Sweet Surrender by Maya Banks 8.15.11
GLBT: Hot Head by Damon Suede
✓Historical: That Perfect Someone by Johanna Lindsey 8.11.11
Paranormal: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian
✓Suspense: Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare 8.6.11
✓Chick-lit: Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich 8.22.11
World Lit/International: The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson
✓Young Adult: Before Green Gables by Budge Wilson

Bonus Categories:
Classic:To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
✓Memoir: Mennonite in a Little Black Dress by Rhoda Janzen 8.12.11
Thriller: The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
✓Religious: A Very Special Delivery by Linda Goodnight 8.21.11
Dystopia: Soulless by Gail Carriger



Discussion - Have I read this genre and what did I think of this book/author?
Unlawful Contact by Pamela Clare - I love romantic suspense! It seems some of the best book I have read this year fall into this category. This is the third book in Pamela Clare's I-Team series, I read the first two earlier this year and I have to ask myself why did I wait so long to get back to this series!?! Ms. Clare is an amazing author, she moves me so deeply with her writing! So many things that happened in this book would have been wrong if handled differently - they even felt wrong in this book, but in the end I was able to excuse them. There were so many levels of gray in this book; good guys doing bad for all the right reasons, bad guys who looked like good guys... An awesome love story with a wonderful ending. I loved it! *5 Stars*

That Perfect Someone by Johanna Lindsey - Johanna Lindsey wrote the book that hooked me on romance after having just started reading again after stopping while my kids were young, so I have a real soft spot for her books. That said, some of her recent books haven't always lived up to my memories. I'm happy to say this one did! I really enjoyed this book, it was sweet and funny. But don't read it thinking you are going to be reading a book about one of the Malorys - several of them are in it, even somewhat prominently, but neither the hero or the heroine is related in any way no matter how distant. I liked it anyway. =)

Mennonite in a Little Black Dress by Rhoda Janzen - I don't often read this genre, but I really enjoyed this one! I liked reading about the author's journey from a rather low point in her life, her husband of 15 years left her for "a guy named Bob from gay.com" and recovering from a serious car accident, back home to her roots. She had to come to terms with her choices and even her prejudices. It was enlightening and thought provoking. It was also laugh out loud funny. The author's humor was ever present, even while addressing the destruction of her marriage. I found that admirable. I listened to the audio version and thought that the book was well suited for that and the narrator, Hillary Huber, was also quite good.

Sweet Surrender by Maya Banks - Yeppers, I do like some smut in my romance on occasion! No comment on how frequent that occasion is... But to like it I do require a story and characters I like. This book had both. =) I was a little surprised at how sweet it was (yes, even with Sweet in the title), so that was an added plus. I have only read Maya Banks' Romantic Suspense before and loved them, but had heard that her erotica wasn't as good so I didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised - that is always a good thing!

A Very Special Delivery by Linda Goodnight - Not something I would normally pick up. I don't particularly enjoy religious books, I usually find faith something too individual to feel right while reading about it in a story. And I hate being preached to in my books. While religion was quite prevalent in this book, it was, fortunately for my tastes, directed inward towards the main characters. It was about how their lives needed God, not how everyone did. It was their personal struggles to overcome their pasts and how their faith helped them find their future together. So, IMO, it was a nice story - rather religious, but not overly preachy.

Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich - Chick -it is just OK for me. I typically find the heroine in the story a little annoying. I do like Janet Evanovich's style, but it isn't something I could read too often - I think I might find it as annoying as most chick-lit heroines if I did. I guess I am just one of the people who isn't going to be head over heels for these books. I like them well enough, but I just don't think I am going to rush through the series. For me Stephanie and crew are just going to be filler books here and there and that's OK.

Before Green Gables by Budge Wilson - I don't often read young adult books, and even though this is about a young girl, it deals with subjects that would be hard for young children to read about. I thought the author did a good job at capturing the feel of the original "Anne" books. There were parts were I felt like she relied too heavily on what was too come in the books, but I can overlook that. (I can imagine it would be impossible not to have Anne feel happy and optimistic that the trials of her past were behind her as she was heading for the Cuthberts.) There were a few other things that were slightly unbelievable, but the one that stands out for me, would not likely bother others. I always preferred to read about a slightly older Anne, even so reading about an even younger Anne was still fun.

[Mimmy]

Dare You to Read - One Book For Each Genre (2011-2012)

July 30, 2011 to June 30, 2012

5/9 completed, 08/29

Contemporary: True Love and Other Disasters by Rachel Gibson, Completed 08/05
Erotic or BDSM: Wicked Ties by Shayla Black
GLBT: Taboo, by Sean Wolfe, Completed 07/31
Historical or Regency: The Winter Rose, by Jennifer Donnelly
Paranormal or Fantasy: Phantom Evil by Heather Graham Completed 08/11
Suspense or Mystery: Hard Evidence (I-Team #2) by Pamela Clare
Chick Lit: The Beach House by Jane Green
World Lit/International: The Ice Princess by Camilla Lackberg Completed 08/12
Young Adult: Hourglass by Myra McEntire Completed 08/28





Discussion:
Contemporary: True Love and Other Disasters is the first book I've read from Rachel Gibson. It was a bit implausible and predictable: a former stripper/Playboy playmate marries a very much older man who dies and leaves her a fortune and a.. hockey team? You can predict who will fall in love with whom, but it was still fun to read. I would read more in this genre and more from this author.

GLBT: Taboo is a group of stories divided by geographical region and discussing the range of sexual behaviors considered "taboo": homosexuality and incest. This is my first book in this genre and my first book by this author. It has all the elements of a romantic story: jealousy, rejection, passion and even sometimes a little happiness.

Paranormal or Fantasy: Phantom Evil is the first book in the Krewe of Hunters series. This story is about a group of people who come together to investigate a murder and whether or not ghosts played a role. I liked the characters and the New Orleans setting. I like this genre and I would read the other books in this series.

World Lit/International: I selected The Ice Princess because I enjoyed The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo and read about the comparisons between these books. I thought this was a good mystery/suspense story. It touched upon many of the issues that contemporary women in all countries deal with: relationships, dealing with loss, work pressures and searching for romance. I enjoyed reading the descriptions of the icy streets in the Swedish villages while in the withering summer heat!

Young Adult: I read Hourglass for the book cover alone! The story didn't have as many of the typical YA elements that I associate with this genre; high school setting, best friend conflicts, etc. It did have the "who will I be when I grow up" conflict, which I still suffer from! The heroine, Emerson, has time travel abilities and the story revolves around how she will develop and use them. I liked this book and will read the sequel.

[Lula]

Dare You to Read - One Book For Each Genre (2011-2012)

July 30, 2011 to June 30, 2012

3/9 read

Contemporary: Sawyer 08/05
Erotic or BDSM: Sweet Persuasion 08/15
GLBT: The Realm of Possibility
Historical: Just Like Heaven
Fantasy: Graceling
Mystery: Savannah Blues 08/21
Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ...
World Lit: Eat, Pray, Love
Young Adult: I Am Number Four

Discussion: Have you tried this genre before? What did you think about this book/author?

Contemporary: Sawyer I have tried this genre before. I really liked this book. The characters were all a bunch of fun and really pulled me into the story. It was the first of a series of books and I went on to read the rest.
Erotic or BDSM: Sweet Persuasion This was my first exposure to this genre. This is the second book in a series and after reading a couple of reviews, I decided to read Sweet Surrender before this one. I'm really glad I did. I feel like it helped me 'get my feet wet' if you know what I mean. I'm used to reading contemporary chick lit so this was quite a bit different for me. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I actually enjoyed reading the book. There were a couple of scenes in the story that were uncomfortable to read, but they didn't detract from the story; instead they made it more real or whole somehow. I'm not sure I would read a BDSM without the romance aspect to the story. Now that I've read 2 books of this series, I intend to finish the rest.
Mystery: Savannah Blues I have read this genre before. I really liked this book. I thought the characters were fun and entertaining. The book pulled me along and kept me reading. I found I wanted to know what was going to happen. I would read this author again.

[~Sara~]

July 30 - June 30, 2012

Contemporary: Room
Erotic: The Empress' New Clothes
BDSM: Sacrifice
GLBT: Rough, Raw and Ready
Historical: The Book Thief 8/25/11****
Regency: Dreaming of You
Paranormal: Bloodfever
Fantasy: The Name of the Wind
Suspense: Hard Evidence
Mystery: And Then There Were None
Women's Fiction: The Help
Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes
World Lit: A Thousand Splendid Suns
International: The Shadow of the Wind
Young Adult: The Truth about Forever 8/30/11****

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: Jane Eyre
Memoir: The Glass Castle
Non-fiction: The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals
Thriller: The Girl Who Played with Fire
Horror: Books of Blood
Religious: The God Delusion
Inspirational: The Last Lecture
Speculative Fiction: Oryx and Crake
Dystopia: Brave New World

*Bonus*

Discussion:
None of these genres are new to me - I've read less of some than others, but have read something from each at one point or another.

Historical: The Book Thief
I don't usually like reading books about war but I really liked this one. It's set in Germany before and during WWII and tells the story of a young girl and her adoptive family, friends and neighbours. Unfortunately, the part that I thought should've been the most interesting, that it was narrated by Death, fell short for me; the tone wasn't right and I kept forgetting who the narrator was supposed to be. This was my first book by this author and I would read more by him.

Young Adult: The Truth about Forever
I really like Sarah Dessen's books and this one was no exception. It's typical for her - a young girl meets her future boyfriend and deals with all the drama of teenage life. I like that when she writes it feels so true to life and reminds me of when I was that age. This wasn't my favourite by her, Just Listen still holds that spot, but I loved the story, all the characters and the happy feeling I'm always left with after reading one of her books.

[Fran, Moderator]

@Nida- it took him ages to die, lol! I have had that one on my tbr for ages but just haven't had the desire to read it. Still not in a hurry...

@Roxy- I was drawn to Hourglass for the cover too. Glad you enjoyed it, I should add it to my tbr.

@~Sara~- I've never read anything by Sarah Dessen, it sounds like I need to!

[Vi]

Fran, you should check out Sarah Dessen. She's my go-to author for contemporary YA.

[SandyC]

4/10 Done

Contemporary:State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
Erotic OR BDSM:Long Hard Ride by Lorelei James 8/5/11
GLBT:Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown
Historical OR Regency:Seduce Me at Sunrise by Lisa Kleypas 8/7/11
Paranormal OR Fantasy:A Storm of Swords by George R. R. Martin8/28/11
Suspense OR Mystery:Finger Lickin' Fifteen by Janet Evanovich 8/26/11
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner
World Lit/International:Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi
Young Adult:Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell

*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Thriller OR Horror:Salem's Lot by Stephen King



Fantasy: A Storm of Swords is the third book in the Song of Ice and Fire series. I am completely hooked! The characters, plot, deception, twists and turns all keep the reader guessing and begging for more. I highly recommend these novels!

Mystery:Finger Lickin' Fifteen -- I can't believe I am 15 books into a series! This one wasn't great but it was an improvement over #14 (mostly because there was more Ranger!). These books usually find Stephanie Plum getting a car (or multiple cars) blown up/set on fire, waffling between Morelli and Ranger, hanging out with Lula, eating lots of fattening food, and trying to capture skips while solving a murder. I will keep going despite the repetition just because I feel invested now and I really hope she ends up with Ranger (she probably won't though).

[Fran, Moderator]

Vi wrote: "Fran, you should check out Sarah Dessen. She's my go-to author for contemporary YA."

Thanks Vi, I will. Is there a HEA in her books? Just want to make sure she doesn't write downer, sad, tragic-type stories, I'm not really into that.

[Gigi]

Ok, here's my list!

0/9

Contemporary: Just One Of The Guys by Kristan Higgins
Erotic OR BDSM: Caine's Reckoning by Sarah McCarty (Erotic) and The Reluctant Dom by Tymber Dalton (BDSM)
GLBT: Finding Zach by Rowan Speedwell
Historical OR Regency: The Fulfillment by Lavyrle Spencer
Paranormal OR Fantasy: Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Suspense OR Mystery: Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Love, Rosie by Cecilia Ahern
World Lit/International: Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon by Jorge Amado (Brazil)
Young Adult: The Truth about Forever by Sarah Dessen

May add bonus categories later.

[Vi]

Fran wrote: "Thanks Vi, I will. Is there a HEA in her books? Just want to make sure she doesn't write downer, sad, tragic-type stories, I'm not really into that."

Her books usually have HFN. They are not really tragic.

[Charlotte (Buried in Books)]

HFN?

[Vi]

It means Happy For Now... as opposed to Happily Ever After.

[Charlotte (Buried in Books)]

Oh, OK :)

[Fran, Moderator]

Vi wrote: "Fran wrote: "Thanks Vi, I will. Is there a HEA in her books? Just want to make sure she doesn't write downer, sad, tragic-type stories, I'm not really into that."

Her books usually have HFN. They ..."

Thanks Vi, HFN works for me :)

[Tuğçe]

Fran wrote: "Vi wrote: "Fran wrote: "Thanks Vi, I will. Is there a HEA in her books? Just want to make sure she doesn't write downer, sad, tragic-type stories, I'm not really into that."

Her books usually ha..."

@Fran, well yeah live it in your tbr for now, there are plenty of better ones especially when the book is so long.

@Vi, I have one Sarah Dessen in my owned ones, guess should give it a try soon.

[Rom-addict]

Contemporary: Reckless Night in Rio by Jennie Lucas (Finished)√...
Erotic or BDSM: The Vampire Queen's Servant by Joey W. Hill.
GLBT: Incoming Freshman by Carol Lynne. (Finished)√...
Historical: Seduce Mine Till Midnight by Lisa Kleypas
Paranormal Or Fantasy: Succubus Dreams by Richelle Mead
Suspense Or Mystery: Fatal Consequences by Marie Force

Women's Fiction Or Chick Lit: Playing Dirty by Susan Andersen
World Lit./International: Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier (Author), Anthea Bell (Translator)
Young Adult: Paranormalcy by Kiersten White


GLBT: Incoming Freshman by Carol Lynne.......
that's not the first time for me to read this genre. I loved the book just like all the books from this series! the longing and that feeling that he's the one! If you are a fan of the GLBT genre I recommend this series