Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion
2012 Challenge Archive
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One Book For Each Genre! (2011-2012)
Completed: 5/121. Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive
2. Erotic: Roane
3. GLBT: Caught Running - √ 10-Sep
4. Historical: Miss Wonderful
5. Paranormal: Wild Fire - √ 16-Aug
6. Suspense: Murder Game - √ 7-Oct
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
Have you read this genre before?
Absolutely - one of my favourite genres!
What did you think about this book/author?
Love Christine Feehan's books - they have some repetitive aspects to them in the love scenes, but her characterisation is great and I love her dominant, protective heros. She has very few TSTL heroines - with the more recent ones having lost their tiny waists and stopped nibbling their lips. *phew*
This book is another great instalment in the Ghostwalker series. 4 stars. The first third is fabulous as the H/h meet, then it slows a bit but still plenty of action, then finishes very satisfactorily! I have the next two books lined up. (view spoiler)
10/14Contemporary: Making Waves by Tawna Fenske
BDSM:
GLBT: Zero at the Bone by Jane Seville
Historical:
Paranormal:
Mystery:
Chick Lit:
International: Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
YA:
Bonus Reads:
Classic:
Non-fiction:
Horror:
Religious: Letter to a Christian Nation by Sam Harris
SciFi:
Discussion: Have you tried this genre before? What did you think about this book/author?
1. Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex- Non-fiction isn't something I typically enjoy, so I don't read much of it. However, I loved this one. I took this with me on a trip to Omaha even though I thought I might be uncomfortable reading it on the plane (but at least I'd be forced to read it since my other options would be limited). I wasn't. It was very funny though shocking in some sections. The lengths that people will go to I was surprised at the lengths some people are willing to go to. I often felt bad for the scientists, who have their research derided and their motives questioned. To all the prudes out there, lighten up this is important research. I think I will check out some of this authors other works. Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers sounds interesting.
2.Dangerous Cravings- Although I enjoy this sort of thing in real life, this is the first BDSM novel I've ever read. I found that I really empathized with Alex and I could relate to most of her thoughts and fears, as well as her occasional self disgust. I haven't looked into anything else Evangeline Anderson has written, but I almost certainly will.
3. The Replacement- I read YA novels, especially ones with a fantasy/ paranormal slant, frequently. I didn't think this one lived up to it's hype. It was supposed to be "dark". Some people had even referred to it as "horror." I didn't think it was either of those things. It was, however, entertaining. I didn't dislike it, or anything. It just wasn't what I wanted it to be. This was Brenna Yovanoff first novel. Will I read her again? Probably.
4. Slave to Sensation- I read a lot of paranormal romance, but this is my first time reading anything by Nalini Singh. I loved this story and I am looking forward to reading more of this series! I thought the three different races was very interesting. But I expected to see more of the shifters in their animal forms. Perhaps that'll get explored later in the series.
5. A Little Princess- One of the things I've been trying to do in 2011 is read more "classics". I wasn't very familiar with this novel when I put it on my list. I only used it because the book was selected for a challenge in one of my other GR groups. That said, it was fairly enjoyable. I really liked the main character, Sara, but the plot was predictable and the stories resolution was a little too convenient. However, if I had children, I think I would enjoy sharing this with them. Sara sets a good example of the importance of being kind even when your life sucks.
6. Beyond the Highland Mist- I don't read a lot of historical romance. And most of what I do read are novels written in the 1800s. However, having just finished the Fever series, I was anxious to give Moning's other series a try. I was initially deterred by the first few chapters. I thought the set up was corny. It was carried out in a clumsy manner and I almost put the book down then. Fortunately, it got a lot better once Adrienne arrived in Scotland. Overall, I loved the story and I definitely will be continuing the series .
7. Duma Key- There was a time in high school when I read everything Stephen King wrote. Back then I waited in eager anticipation for his next novel. But it's been a long time since I read one of his new novels and thought "that was really good". I don't think I've liked much he's written since the Black Tower series ended. Unless Black House was published after that... anyway after multiple mediocre books I stopped reading his new books. So this was a very nice surprise. It was suspenseful and creepy. perhaps there is hope. perhaps I gave him up too hastily.
8. A Certain Justice- When I feel like reading pure mystery, I turn to P.D. James. I feel that she does an excellent job with her characters. I never find them one dimensional or overly cliched.I also enjoy that the officers have to do actual detective work to solve the crime. The criminals aren't apprehended by dumb luck, and the cases are not solved by forensic evidence alone. What can I say? I love James!
9. VALIS- I love Scifi and normally I enjoy Dick, but I hated, loathed, and despised this novel. It was literally sleep inducing. I couldn't stay awake when I was trying to read it, and I was reading in the afternoon when I'm typically most alert. I didn't think much of the story. It seemed eclipsed by information about Gnosticism, which I'm not interested in reading about. At all. I will keep reading Dick's earlier works but I'm removing the rest of the Valis trilogy (and anything else written after '74) from my TBR pile.
10. Strange Bedpersons Finished 10/9
I've read a couple of books by Jennifer Crusie in the past and I must say I liked each of them better than this one. Like the others, this was a light fluffy read. But I found the plot entirely predictable and I thought the leading lady was a two dimensional parody of a feminist. Because I've enjoyed this author in the past, I will probably read more of her in the future, but if this was my introduction to Crusie, I probably wouldn't come back.
7/14 CompletedGLBT: Touch Me Gently
Paranormal OR Fantasy: A Hunger Like No Other
Suspense OR Mystery: All The Pretty Dead Girls
*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
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.
Contemporary: Causing Havoc
I have read her books before and I always had the same feeling. They are nice and easy reads which leaves no affect on me. Basically quite cliched, ordinary romance reads. At least hers are not too unrealistic where the hero can go on forever in bed etc.Although, I still find them unrealistic,I think I need to read about those unrealistic mostly hot heroes and their lives from time to time.
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: My Sister's Keeper
I have watched the movie a few years ago and I found it surprisingly good and sad. I decided to read this one for a challange without realising it; even the names were same was, the book of that movie - yeah some ignorance huh!
I liked it but actually I thought the movie was more effective at least in the way of a tearjerker. I liked the book, I enjoyed the multiple POVs, it was a little confusing in the beginning but totally a brilliant idea so I knew exactly how every significant one thought all through the book. I found the mother very annoying even though I can understand her in someways, I can understand it is a very difficult situation though still I sympathized with Anna more.
I liked the story of Julia and Campbell sad and sweet and glad at least there were something happy and heartwarming besides all the drama.
If it wasn't the epilogue with Kate I could have rated 3 stars but that bit affected me more than the whole book, I can say.
Young Adult: Amy & Roger's Epic Detour
I love "the end"s that promise a glimpse of better future for the characters especially if the book succeeded to make me care for them. That's exactly what happened in this book. This book made me think and feel, sadness, happiness and hope... I liked Amy from the start and Roger was more than likable as well. It was great to witness how two wounded who don't even know one another, can heal each other without even noticing it. And it was beautifully written, very realistic, it made me feel as if I was living and travelling along the states with them. I had this book for a long time in my pile, I am glad I finally read it.
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate
This book is about love, passion and food (mexican food in this case). Although this is a story of forbidden love, you are rooted for them instead of the married couple, it is almost impossible to be fond of Rosuara - I still cannot believe the tradition of the youngest sister not marrying and looking after the mother and also cannot believe the mother's offering an older sister for marriage.
I realised - even though I don't want to accept - that I like magical realism, it makes me feel like the book/story and the taste left is enchanted.
There are also total of 12 recipes which each is in the beginning of every chapter. And they make you crave for Mexican food :) Each dish tells about Tita's emotions -mainly about Pedro- and effects whoever eats them.
The characters are strong and heroine is easily lovable -wish I could say the same for Mama Elena- you can easily feel the chemistry between Tita and Pedro and ache for their helplessness and their love and the writing has a sensuality about it, that makes you use your imagination, even with the simplest words.
'Whenever she closed her eyes she saw scenes from last Christmas, the first time Pedro and his family had been invited to dinner; the scenes grew more and more vivid, and the cold within her grew sharper. Despite the time that had passed since that evening, she remembered it perfectly: the sounds, the smells, the way her new dress had grazed the freshly waxed floor, the look Pedro gave her ... That look! She had been walking to the table carrying a tray of egg-yolk candies when she first felt his hot gaze burning her skin. She turned her head, and her eyes met Pedro's. It was then she understood how dough feels when it is plunged into boiling oil. The heat that invaded her body was so real she was afraid she would start to bubble — her face, her stomach, her heart, her breasts — like batter, and unable to endure his gaze she lowered her eyes and hastily crossed the room....'
One Book For Each Genre Challenge6/16 Done
Contemporary: The Sweetest Thing
Erotic: Passionate Pleasures
GLBT: Caught Running9/10 (3.5*)
BDSM: Silent Heat
Historical/Regency:Lily Mine
Paranormal:Halfway to the Grave
Fantasy: The Body Finder8/2 (3*)
Suspense: Murder Game
Mystery: And Then There Were None8/5 (5*)
Women's Fiction:Life From Scratch
Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ...
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate
Young Adult: Demonglass10/10 (4*)
Optional/Bonus:
Memoir:A Jew Grows in Brooklyn: The Curious Reflections of a First-Generation American8/13
Non-Fiction:Lies that Chelsea Handler Told Me 10/9 (3*)
Inspirational:Chicken Soup for the Soul: Woman to Woman: Women Sharing Their Stories of Hope, Humor, and Inspiration
Discussion:
Fantasy:The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting.Finished 8/2 (3*) I have read Fantasy before but this author is new to me. There were some things about this book I really enjoyed and others that I didn't. I liked Violet's special ability, how it was described and how her family dealt with it. But Violet made some foolish choices that distracted me a bit from the story line. There was also a very sweet friends-to-lovers storyline that was done well (except for the slightly annoying "make you jealous by using others" trick). I can't put my finger on it, but I didn't enjoy the author's voice as much as other YA Fantasy/Paranormal that I have read in the past. I was also surprised that for a YA, we were inside the mind of the killer as well as Violet. I'm not sure if I will continue with the series, but I will definitely continue with the genre.
Mystery: And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie-8/5 (5*) I have read very little mystery in the past, practically none. I have never read Agatha Christie. I LOVED this book! I couldn't put it down, it was so well done. I feel like I found a new genre and a new author from this read. It was suspenseful and thought-provoking without being gory or scary. A great read!
Memoir: I read A Jew Grows in Brooklyn: The Curious Reflections of a First-Generation American by Jake Ehrenreich(3.5*) 8/13/11. I have read a few Memoirs but have not read anything by this author before. This is a memoir of the author's life, growing up in Brooklyn the son of Holocaust survivor parents, his musician years and his years as a parent. He has a Broadway show by the same name as the title of the book and he decided to put his show on paper. I enjoyed reading about his childhood and his close and loving relationship with his father later on in their lives. He is very humorous and the book is filled with funny as well as touching moments of his life. Overall this book felt like a love letter to his dad and I teared up many times as he was recounting his relationship with him. I enjoy reading the memoir genre on occasion and I will definitely continue reading it.
GLBT:Caught Running 9/10 (3.5*).
I have read this genre before but nothing by this writing duo. I enjoyed this book and this genre. Like Jane, I liked the relationship development between Jake and Brandon, the slow, sweet way they got together. But there were a few things about this story this story that could have been better. The constantly flipping POVs was distracting for me, and I later learned that the two authors each wrote a character. That's exactly how it felt when I was reading it, like two different people were writing it. I also wish there could have been some mention about how the men felt about hiding their sexuality at work, in their town. I guess I just wanted more of their feelings about their life to be divulged. I would read this writing duo again, overall I enjoyed the story.
Young Adult:Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins. 10/10 (4*)- I really liked this book. It's the second in a series and I read the first one and loved it. I really enjoy the author's voice. The main character Sophie is snarky, brave and a Demon. This story takes up where the first one left off and leaves the reader with an even bigger cliffhanger than before. I am not a great fan of a cliffhanger but I will definitely be reading the next one in this series. There was an introduction of a love triangle in this book I felt wasn't really necessary. I don't enjoy that plot device and I didn't think it added much to the story. And the addition of more other-worldly beings such as fairies and werewolves wasn't needed. I loved the story when it was just about a High School girl dealing with witches and Demons. Still a great read though, just a few things the author could have done without.
Non-Fiction:Lies that Chelsea Handler Told Me by Chelsea Handler 10/9 (3*)- I listened to this as an audiobook. I have read and listened to two others by Chelsea Handler in the past. She is funny and honest and makes me laugh. This particular book was written by all of her friends and family, each writing their own chapter. The audio was narrated by each individual writer reading their particular chapter. That made this book good. Not really the stories of what Chelsea did to each of them because she is pretty annoying and obnoxious to everyone she loves, but having the people who she did it too actually tell their stories was a nice surprise. It was like sitting around with all of her loved ones and hearing about their adventures together and all of the jokes Chelsea plays on them. I can only say that I'm glad I'm not her friend!
One Book For Each Genre Challenge July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)
6/16 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 completed 10/1/11
√Paranormal: Elijah completed 8/25/11
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
√Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass completed 10/11/11
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 completed 9/16/11
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.
Classic: Pride and Prejudice was one of my favorite books when I was younger. I read it again and it was difficult for me to read. Everything was full of flourish. I found myself impatient for the characters to just say what they meant! LOL I don't know if it's now that even when I'm reading I'm thinking about all of the million of others things I HAVE to do, but I just didn't enjoy as much as I did previously. *shrug*
Historical or Regency: It Happened One Autumn was FANTASTIC! I am not usually a fan of historical romance, but Lisa Kleypas really makes me question that. I loved Secrets of a Summer Night, but I think I liked this book more because I didn't particularly care for the hero when we met in the first book, but I guess he just needed to fall in love because I absolutely adored him in this! I may have to start reading more historical romances!
Suspense OR Mystery: I listened the Alphabet Mystery Series by Sue Grafton on audiobook, and I have to admit that some books have been better than others. I don't think I would have liked the series as much as I do if I hadn't listened to them. But the first narrator for the series really had a great voice and interpretation of the character, so I got hooked. I had been disappointed with the last few "letters", so I had put the series down for a while. I picked it back up for this challenge and I must say that I really liked T is for Trespass. This book was done differently since we knew exactly who the culprit was from the beginning. Also we got to see the culprits point of view as well as Kinsey's (the main character) throughout the book. It certainly kept me interested, and it has renewed my interest in the series. My only problem now is that there is only up to "U" done so far, so I'll have to wait for the rest of the series to come out. I've been spoiled so far since I started listening to it about a year and a half ago. :)
July 30 - June 30, 2012Contemporary: Room
Erotic: The Empress' New Clothes
BDSM: Sacrifice
GLBT: Rough, Raw and Ready
Regency: Dreaming of You
Paranormal: Bloodfever
Fantasy: The Name of the Wind
Suspense: Hard Evidence
Mystery: And Then There Were None
Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes
World Lit: A Thousand Splendid Suns
International: The Shadow of the Wind
*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.
Women's Fiction: The Help
This book follows the lives of 3 different women living in Jackson, Mississippi in the early 60's. Two of the women are black maids and the third is a rich white girl who's just graduated from college, she's the only one of her close friends still unmarried and has to figure out what to do with her life. What she really wants to do is write so she decides to tell the story of the help from their perspective. I loved how unique the author was able to make each of these character's voices so, even though the narrator changes often, it was never confusing to know who was talking at any given point. I thought the relationships, both good and bad, were beautifully told and the blending of the events of this story with a little of the history of the civil rights movement was perfect to give a realistic backdrop without pulling you too far out of the narrative. I would recommend this and can't wait to see the movie!
Woo-hoo! 9/9 COMPLETED√
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TO BE READ
READ
Dare You To Read - One Book For Each Genre (Round 2)30th July '11 to 30th June '12
Contemporary: High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
Erotic: The Vampire Queen's Servant by Joey W. Hill
Historical: Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks
Fantasy: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Suspense: Killing Floor by Lee Child
Chick-lit: Undead and Unpopular by MaryJanice Davidson
World Lit: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
Young Adult: Forever by Maggie Stiefvater
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Memoir: Moab Is My Washpot by Stephen Fry
Horror: Let the Right One in by John Ajvide Lindqvist
Mockingjay
I read quite a bit of YA and this trilogy is definately one of the best. It doesn't shy away from the violence of War, the senselessness of it all. After 3 games Katniss was a shell of the girl at the start of the first book. Overall I'm happy with the way it ended but really want to find a quiet corner and cry my eyes out.
Dare You to Read - One Book For Each Genre (2011-2012)July 30, 2011 to June 30, 2012
10 of 14 read. Updated 10.18.11
✓Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton 9.20.11
✓Erotic: Sweet Surrender by Maya Banks 8.15.11
✓GLBT: Hot Head by Damon Suede 9.12.11
✓Historical: That Perfect Someone by Johanna Lindsey 8.11.11
✓Paranormal: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian 10.18.11
✓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.
Hot Head by Damon Suede - I have read other M/M books in the past, but none by this author. I liked it. I thought the story was good and the characters likable. There were some things that bothered me a little, but in the end i found it an enjoyable read. I thought the author did a good job of dealing with the emotions involved, it felt real to me.
Changing the Game by Jaci Burton - There are times when a good CR is the best thing to read! I am so glad to be finding more that are good, because when they are bad they are booooorrrrrrinnnng! I did really enjoy this story. I loved Lizzie and Gavin together! All of the relationships in this book we so nice to read about - the girlfriends, the family, the parents. That was one of the nicest parts of the book for me! That and it was pretty darned steamy too!
Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian - Seriously?! Seriously, it ended there?! Arrrrgggghhh!! When does the next book come out?! I really liked this book, but I think I liked the advancement of the overall story line more than the romance. I did like Hunter and Corinne, but their romance just didn't do that much for me. I did like the resolution with Mira's vision too - wasn't sure how that was going to work out while I was reading. One thing I thought was a little strange is that the book was set in December right before Christmas. I found it odd for a book released in the middle of summer. Another was the timeline of the series as a whole, it was repeated several times that the entire series has taken place in a year and a half. I have been reading it much longer than that!!
I would like to join, i keep a list of everything i have read the last 5 or so years so can go back and get the onces I have read.My question is how many categories are there. I have seen 13 and I have seen 14 plus the 5 bonus. Which is it?
Lindy wrote: "I would like to join, i keep a list of everything i have read the last 5 or so years so can go back and get the onces I have read.My question is how many categories are there. I have seen 13 a..."
Hi Lindy!
I'm so glad you would like to join. In post 1 and 2 of this thread you will find directions and guidelines for this challenge. You are only required to complete 9 Genres with the Bonus Genres being optional. Some of us have opted to separate some of the genre choices so there are more books to complete. For example you can read 1 book that falls under the Paranormal/Fantasy Genre or read 2 books, 1 Paranormal and 1 Fantasy. If you would like to get some ideas and book recommendations, please check out the Suggestions thread for this challenge- http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/6...
You should choose new books to you for this challenge, no need to reread anything. Choosing books in a genre that is new or not your usual reading choice can be fun, I hope you enjoy the challenge!
11/14Contemporary:
BDSM:
GLBT: Zero at the Bone by Jane Seville
Historical:
Paranormal:
Mystery:
Chick Lit:
International: Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
YA:
Bonus Reads:
Classic:
Non-fiction:
Horror:
Religious: Letter to a Christian Nation by Sam Harris
SciFi:
Discussion: Have you tried this genre before? What did you think about this book/author?
1. Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex- Non-fiction isn't something I typically enjoy, so I don't read much of it. However, I loved this one. I took this with me on a trip to Omaha even though I thought I might be uncomfortable reading it on the plane (but at least I'd be forced to read it since my other options would be limited). I wasn't. It was very funny though shocking in some sections. The lengths that people will go to I was surprised at the lengths some people are willing to go to. I often felt bad for the scientists, who have their research derided and their motives questioned. To all the prudes out there, lighten up this is important research. I think I will check out some of this authors other works. Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers sounds interesting.
2.Dangerous Cravings- Although I enjoy this sort of thing in real life, this is the first BDSM novel I've ever read. I found that I really empathized with Alex and I could relate to most of her thoughts and fears, as well as her occasional self disgust. I haven't looked into anything else Evangeline Anderson has written, but I almost certainly will.
3. The Replacement- I read YA novels, especially ones with a fantasy/ paranormal slant, frequently. I didn't think this one lived up to it's hype. It was supposed to be "dark". Some people had even referred to it as "horror." I didn't think it was either of those things. It was, however, entertaining. I didn't dislike it, or anything. It just wasn't what I wanted it to be. This was Brenna Yovanoff first novel. Will I read her again? Probably.
4. Slave to Sensation- I read a lot of paranormal romance, but this is my first time reading anything by Nalini Singh. I loved this story and I am looking forward to reading more of this series! I thought the three different races was very interesting. But I expected to see more of the shifters in their animal forms. Perhaps that'll get explored later in the series.
5. A Little Princess- One of the things I've been trying to do in 2011 is read more "classics". I wasn't very familiar with this novel when I put it on my list. I only used it because the book was selected for a challenge in one of my other GR groups. That said, it was fairly enjoyable. I really liked the main character, Sara, but the plot was predictable and the stories resolution was a little too convenient. However, if I had children, I think I would enjoy sharing this with them. Sara sets a good example of the importance of being kind even when your life sucks.
6. Beyond the Highland Mist- I don't read a lot of historical romance. And most of what I do read are novels written in the 1800s. However, having just finished the Fever series, I was anxious to give Moning's other series a try. I was initially deterred by the first few chapters. I thought the set up was corny. It was carried out in a clumsy manner and I almost put the book down then. Fortunately, it got a lot better once Adrienne arrived in Scotland. Overall, I loved the story and I definitely will be continuing the series .
7. Duma Key- There was a time in high school when I read everything Stephen King wrote. Back then I waited in eager anticipation for his next novel. But it's been a long time since I read one of his new novels and thought "that was really good". I don't think I've liked much he's written since the Black Tower series ended. Unless Black House was published after that... anyway after multiple mediocre books I stopped reading his new books. So this was a very nice surprise. It was suspenseful and creepy. perhaps there is hope. perhaps I gave him up too hastily.
8. A Certain Justice- When I feel like reading pure mystery, I turn to P.D. James. I feel that she does an excellent job with her characters. I never find them one dimensional or overly cliched.I also enjoy that the officers have to do actual detective work to solve the crime. The criminals aren't apprehended by dumb luck, and the cases are not solved by forensic evidence alone. What can I say? I love James!
9. VALIS- I love Scifi and normally I enjoy Dick, but I hated, loathed, and despised this novel. It was literally sleep inducing. I couldn't stay awake when I was trying to read it, and I was reading in the afternoon when I'm typically most alert. I didn't think much of the story. It seemed eclipsed by information about Gnosticism, which I'm not interested in reading about. At all. I will keep reading Dick's earlier works but I'm removing the rest of the Valis trilogy (and anything else written after '74) from my TBR pile.
10. Strange Bedpersons Finished 10/9
I've read a couple of books by Jennifer Crusie in the past and I must say I liked each of them better than this one. Like the others, this was a light fluffy read. But I found the plot entirely predictable and I thought the leading lady was a two dimensional parody of a feminist. Because I've enjoyed this author in the past, I will probably read more of her in the future, but if this was my introduction to Crusie, I probably wouldn't come back.
11. Making Waves Finished 10/20
Contemporary romance is not my favorite genre. Or at least that's what I tell myself, but I keep finding more and more contemporary romance books that I really enjoy. I probably need to take a step back and ask myself why I'm biased towards this genre. This book was a light-hearted entertaining read. Not since I read The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy for the first time have I laughed so much. Not chuckles but deep belly laughs. This was
Tawna Fenske first novel. I see that she's go another due out in March. I'll definitely be checking it out!
Amy J. wrote: "10/14Contemporary: Making Waves by Tawna Fenske Finished 10/20
BDSM: Dangerous Cravings by Evangeline Anderson Finished 8/5
GLBT: ..."
Hi Amy J.!
Making Waves sounds good! I have moved away from Historical over the past few years (just burnt out on it) and moved more towards Contemporary. I really enjoy it and if you want any recs I would be happy to give some to you :)
I am going to try and lure Tawna Fenske to our Ask An Author Corner for a Q&A- thanks for the review and a new author to read!
Fran wrote: "Amy J. wrote: "10/14Contemporary: Making Waves by Tawna Fenske Finished 10/20
BDSM: Dangerous Cravings by Evangeline Anderson ..."
Thanks, I'd love to have your suggestions!
And I hope you can get Tawna to join the Ask an Author corner. That would be fantastic!
Amy J. wrote: "Fran wrote: "Amy J. wrote: "10/14Contemporary: Making Waves by Tawna Fenske Finished 10/20
BDSM: Dangerous Cravings by [author:Evangeline Anderson..."
I just sent her a PM asking her to check it out and see if she's interested- *crossing fingers*
I'm going to compile you a list of my fave Contemps :)
6/10 CompletedContemporary: No One Lives Twice by Julie Moffet.
✓Erotic Or BDSM:
✓GLBT:
✓Historical:
✓Paranormal:
Suspense Or Mystery: Still Missing By Chevy Steves.
✓Women's Fiction Or Chick-lit:
World Lit: The Kite Runner By Khaled Hussinay.
Young Adult: Ten Things We Did By Sarah Mlynowsk.
Bonus
✓Classic:
DISCUSION
✓Women's Fiction Or Chick-lit:And One Last Thing ... By Molly Harper.
Let me start by saying, that this is the 1st book i read for this Genre, and i was always thinking i'll read this women empowered books when i get married and have kids or some other thing like that - P.S: i'm almost always reading ROMANCE, with all its sub-genres, i call it my happy bubble- BUT -and here what's important- THIS BOOK; let me realise that it will give me the same Bubble i search for in reading books, and i also found out that this Genre gives me insight to a whole bigger image, the empowerment, the adult interaction, not the flirting sassy talking only ! these women want to find themselves again, want to turn their world around, the way they want it, and This Author put it in a funny-smart, loving way, and it showed also that you are never old to do what you want, start a career, have friends, even find the love of your life! and that's Something, so i will be reading from this Genre on regular basis.
and without this challenge i wouldn't have read this and i'd be missing out a lot, So Thank you :)
AND anyone who read this, if you have any recommendation of this Genre or this Author let me know :) THANKS again.
Current Status - 3/23 and 1 DNF
- yes, I know i'm an overachiever!Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive
Erotic: Raine
BDSM: Ice Queen
GLBT: Divide and Conquer - Finished - October 25 - Holy Ty and Zane hotness - loved this fourth installment in the Cut & Run series, and continuing my love for the m/m genre. Can't say much more without spoilers, but i'll def. be continuing this series and this genre
Historical: Burning Tigress - DNF'd - holy purple prose batman! I read three chapters before I gave up - if i had to hear one more word about her yin going with his yang (or was it the other way around I might have screamed)...I mean, heck, the book started with her and her brother walking in while he had acupruncture needles stuck in his penis and she didn't even blink an eye...WTF!!! - I'll find something else to substitute in here, just not sure what yet
***NEW BOOK***Under Fishbone Clouds
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) - Finished - September 10 - one of the other groups i'm in is doing an around the world in 80 books challenge, I love it because it has made it read books not set in the US/UK/France. This one is a mystery set in Ghana and i enjoyed it. The author grew up there and while he now lives in the US it had an authentic feel. I'll def. be reading more by him in the future.
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
One Book For Each Genre Challenge July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)
7/16 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 completed 10/1/11
√Paranormal: Elijah completed 8/25/11
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
√Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass completed 10/11/11
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Confessions of a Shopaholic
World Lit/International: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
√Young Adult: The Hunger Games completed 10/11/11
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
√Classic: Pride and Prejudice completed 9/16/11
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.
Classic: Pride and Prejudice was one of my favorite books when I was younger. I read it again and it was difficult for me to read. Everything was full of flourish. I found myself impatient for the characters to just say what they meant! LOL I don't know if it's now that even when I'm reading I'm thinking about all of the million of others things I HAVE to do, but I just didn't enjoy as much as I did previously. *shrug*
Historical or Regency: It Happened One Autumn was FANTASTIC! I am not usually a fan of historical romance, but Lisa Kleypas really makes me question that. I loved Secrets of a Summer Night, but I think I liked this book more because I didn't particularly care for the hero when we met in the first book, but I guess he just needed to fall in love because I absolutely adored him in this! I may have to start reading more historical romances!
Suspense OR Mystery: I listened the Alphabet Mystery Series by Sue Grafton on audiobook, and I have to admit that some books have been better than others. I don't think I would have liked the series as much as I do if I hadn't listened to them. But the first narrator for the series really had a great voice and interpretation of the character, so I got hooked. I had been disappointed with the last few "letters", so I had put the series down for a while. I picked it back up for this challenge and I must say that I really liked T is for Trespass. This book was done differently since we knew exactly who the culprit was from the beginning. Also we got to see the culprits point of view as well as Kinsey's (the main character) throughout the book. It certainly kept me interested, and it has renewed my interest in the series. My only problem now is that there is only up to "U" done so far, so I'll have to wait for the rest of the series to come out. I've been spoiled so far since I started listening to it about a year and a half ago. :)
Young Adult: YA is a relatively new genre for me. I'm glad that The Hunger Games was among one of the first books I've read in the genre. I have a ton of thoughts about it though because I mean, wow, this is a really difficult book to review. As much as I liked it, it made me uncomfortable. What a horrible world to have to live in when we put are young people in such horrible situations! But, are there a lot of young ones in horrible situations right now, too? The brutality and horror during the game were difficult at times, but what was the most difficult was the conditions from where Katniss came. A child without at childhood, a girl not able to enjoy being one. I will say that even though I was having all of these thoughts, I really devoured the book, and I can't wait to read the next one. I'm actually glad that the trilogy is already finished because I don't think I would have been able to wait in between books the way some people had to.
One Book For Each Genre Challenge7/16 Done
Contemporary: The Sweetest Thing
Erotic: Passionate Pleasures
GLBT: Caught Running9/10 (3.5*)
BDSM: Silent Heat
Historical/Regency:Lily Mine10/23 (3.5*)
Paranormal:Halfway to the Grave
Fantasy: The Body Finder8/2 (3*)
Suspense: Murder Game
Mystery: And Then There Were None8/5 (5*)
Women's Fiction:Life From Scratch
Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ...
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate
Young Adult: Demonglass10/10 (4*)
Optional/Bonus:
Memoir:A Jew Grows in Brooklyn: The Curious Reflections of a First-Generation American8/13
Non-Fiction:Lies that Chelsea Handler Told Me 10/9 (3*)
Inspirational:Chicken Soup for the Soul: Woman to Woman: Women Sharing Their Stories of Hope, Humor, and Inspiration
Discussion:
7.Historical/Regency: Lily Mine by Annabel Joseph: I have read this author before and lots in this genre. I have read much less historical recently because I have just been burnt out on it. I liked this story but it did use a plot device I don't usually care for- impersonating someone else and deceiving others. Luckily the hero asks the heroine to purpetuate this deceit so at least the H/h are in on the ruse together. Although neither of them likes it. There is a bit of light bondage in this historical (it is Annabel Joseph after all!) and maybe a bit steamier than most historicals, but still a sweet story and a nice HEA. I will continue to sparingly read historical in the future and I will definitely keep reading Annabel Joseph.
6/10 DoneContemporary:State of Wonder by Ann Patchett
Erotic OR BDSM:
GLBT:Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown
Historical OR Regency:
Paranormal OR Fantasy:
Suspense OR Mystery:
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner
World Lit/International:
Young Adult:
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Thriller OR Horror:Salem's Lot by Stephen King
World Lit: I'm not a huge fan of graphic novels, but I liked Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood. It was interesting that it was a child's perspective on historical events in Iran that were horrifying. It made me want to revisit Reading Lolita in Tehran.
Young Adult: Island of the Blue Dolphins is one of those books that I should have read in school but never got around to it. It reminded me a lot of Julie of the Wolves, which I re-read recently and gained a new appreciation of it. I thought this was set on a island out near Asia, but actually it's set off the coast of California, which I found surprising. What was really surprising is this was based on a true story of a girl who was left alone on an island for 18 years. I'd like to read more about what happened to her.
Hi Sandy!My 4th grade teacher read Island Of The Blue Dolphins aloud to us and I still remember loving it. You got me interested in the real person it was based on and I just found this on Wikepedia-
This novel is based on the true story of Juana Maria, the "Woman of San Nicolas Island", a Nicoleño Indian left alone for 18 years on San Nicolas Island, one of the Channel Islands off the California coast, before being discovered in 1853. By this time Juana Maria was the last known member of her tribe, and was unable to communicate with anyone she met on the mainland. She lived with the family of George Nidever, one of the men in the group that found her, but died after only seven weeks.
How sad that she lived 18 years on an island but only lasted 7 weeks in civilization!
Fran wrote: "Hi Sandy!My 4th grade teacher read Island Of The Blue Dolphins aloud to us and I still remember loving it. You got me interested in the real person it was based on and I just found this on Wike..."
Fran,
I agree that is very sad! I wonder if she caught a disease or something?
One Book For Each Genre Challenge Progress: 8/19
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 - 1/11/11 - ★★★1/2
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. Non-Fiction: Sh*t My Dad Says by Justin Halpern
16. Horror: Let the Right One in by John Ajvide Lindqvist
17. Thriller: Postmortem by Patricia Cornwell
18. Speculative: Doomsday Book by Connie Willis
19. Dystopia: Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde
20. Manga:
Discussion
8. Black Ice by Anne Stuart - This is my first book from this author after hearing about her regencies and her non-traditional heroes. Bastien is supposed to be working undercover for a top-secret organization for maintaining world-peace at any cost. Chloe works as a translator for children's books in Paris. She takes a weekend job as a translator for a discussion. She stumbles into a discussion way over her head and the rest of the book is on her survival from the rest of the gang with the help of Bastien. Stuart wries excellent anti-heroes. For most of the book, I couldn't like Bastien. His only reedeming quality is his willing to do anything to make Chloe survive. Chloe, on the other hand, was nothing more than a damsel in distress. She relied on Bastien for everything. So clueless. I wish she'd been more aggressive. I could buy into their pairing but I ended up liking Bastien more than Chloe. I'll be picking up more book from this author but I'll probably try her regencies first.
One Book For Each Genre!July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012
7 of 24 Complete!
CATEGORIES:
√ 1. Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton – 9/1
√ 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 – 11/4
6. Paranormal: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian
√ 7. Fantasy: Crown of Crystal Flame by C. L. Wilson – 9/16
√ 8. Suspense: No Regrets by Shannon K. Butcher – 9/9
√ 9. Mystery: Heat Wave by Richard Castle – 9/8
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 (November)
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 – 9/28
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?
Regency: What Happens in London by Julia Quinn, completed 11/4. I really like this genre. This book was the second in a series of three, but was so completely disconnected from the first book in the series that it can definitely be read as a stand-alone. I thought this book was delightfully witty and funny. The dialogue between the H/h was quick and really fun. Sometimes when I’m reading really smart dialogue, even though I am enjoying it, I’m also questioning how two people can sustain that level of cleverness. Ms. Quinn was able to make her characters and their interactions and dialogue not only believable, but laugh-out-loud funny. The story line is pretty thin, but for me the characters were enough to hold my interest.
Speculative Fiction: Ashes, Ashes by Jo Treggiari, completed 9/28, Message #342.
Fantasy: Crown of Crystal Flame by C. L. Wilson, completed 9/16, Message #322.
Suspense: No Regrets by Shannon K. Butcher, completed 9/9, Message #320.
Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton , completed 9/1, Message #316.
Mystery: Heat Wave by Richard Castle, completed 9/8, Message #316.
Erotic: Dare to Believe by Dana Marie Bell, completed 8/25, Message #279.
One Book For Each Genre Challenge July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)
8/16 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 completed 10/1/11
√Paranormal: Elijah completed 8/25/11
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
√Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass completed 10/11/11
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Confessions of a Shopaholic
√World Lit/International: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency completed 11/4/11
√Young Adult: The Hunger Games completed 10/11/11
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
√Classic: Pride and Prejudice completed 9/16/11
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.
Classic: Pride and Prejudice was one of my favorite books when I was younger. I read it again and it was difficult for me to read. Everything was full of flourish. I found myself impatient for the characters to just say what they meant! LOL I don't know if it's now that even when I'm reading I'm thinking about all of the million of others things I HAVE to do, but I just didn't enjoy as much as I did previously. *shrug*
Historical or Regency: It Happened One Autumn was FANTASTIC! I am not usually a fan of historical romance, but Lisa Kleypas really makes me question that. I loved Secrets of a Summer Night, but I think I liked this book more because I didn't particularly care for the hero when we met in the first book, but I guess he just needed to fall in love because I absolutely adored him in this! I may have to start reading more historical romances!
Suspense OR Mystery: I listened the Alphabet Mystery Series by Sue Grafton on audiobook, and I have to admit that some books have been better than others. I don't think I would have liked the series as much as I do if I hadn't listened to them. But the first narrator for the series really had a great voice and interpretation of the character, so I got hooked. I had been disappointed with the last few "letters", so I had put the series down for a while. I picked it back up for this challenge and I must say that I really liked T is for Trespass. This book was done differently since we knew exactly who the culprit was from the beginning. Also we got to see the culprits point of view as well as Kinsey's (the main character) throughout the book. It certainly kept me interested, and it has renewed my interest in the series. My only problem now is that there is only up to "U" done so far, so I'll have to wait for the rest of the series to come out. I've been spoiled so far since I started listening to it about a year and a half ago. :)
Young Adult: YA is a relatively new genre for me. I'm glad that The Hunger Games was among one of the first books I've read in the genre. I have a ton of thoughts about it though because I mean, wow, this is a really difficult book to review. As much as I liked it, it made me uncomfortable. What a horrible world to have to live in when we put are young people in such horrible situations! But, are there a lot of young ones in horrible situations right now, too? The brutality and horror during the game were difficult at times, but what was the most difficult was the conditions from where Katniss came. A child without at childhood, a girl not able to enjoy being one. I will say that even though I was having all of these thoughts, I really devoured the book, and I can't wait to read the next one. I'm actually glad that the trilogy is already finished because I don't think I would have been able to wait in between books the way some people had to.
World Lit/International: I read The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and I think this moved just way too slow for me. I really had to work at keeping my attention on it. I'd read a chapter and then go read another book, and so on. I thought if I could get past the beginning, it would get better but it just didn't. I liked the content but no the way it was delivered.
Dare You To Read: One Book For Each Genre! DONE!July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012
Contemporary: I read Visions of Sugar Plums from the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. This is the second book I've read in this series and I'm definitely a fan. I will continue reading Stephanie Plum series.
Erotica: I read A Baumgartners Reunion by Selena Kitt. This book is part of a series surrounding the Baumgartner Family. I loved this series and continue to enjoy this genre.
GLBT: I read Secrets by Jordan Castillo Price. This series is one of the first male on male romance series I've read. I've read some m/m erotica but the m/m had such passion and romance. I adore the writing in this series and will continue this series and read other m/m romance.
Historical: I read The Help by Kathryn Stockett. I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love with the characters. I will continue reading this genre.
Paranormal: This is one of my main genres. I read Bitten from the Women of the Otherworld Series by Kelley Armstrong. I'm so glad I read this book. The is my favourite series of all time.
Urban Fantasy: This is another one of my main genres. I read Bitten In Two from the Jaz Parks Series by Jennifer Rardin. The first book was just okay, but the next six books were awesome. The final book was a disappointment. The authors style changed for the final book and she spent pages focusing on her inner turmoil. Since this is one of my main genres, I will definitely keep reading.
Mystery: Heat Wave by Richard Castle was my first mystery. I loved it! I plan to keep reading the series and will branch out with other authors in this genre.
Chick-lit: I read Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang by Chelsea Handler. I was surprised I liked this story so much. I really enjoyed the stories by Chelsea's friends. I may continue with this series, but I prefer the other genres.
International: I read Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld. I wasn't sure what International genre meant, but this story fit the bill for me. This takes place at the beginning of World War I. The aire to the Austro-Hungarian throne is one the run after his parents are murdered. While in neutral territory, he finds unlikely allies in his enemies, the British. After reading this, I discovered this genre is considered Steampunk, but I found it fit International for me. I will continue to read Steampunk for sure.
Young Adult: I love this genre. I wish this genre was as this good when I was a YA. I read Iron King part of the Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa. I love this series and this genre and will continue reading it.
Classic: I am a Shakespeare Fan, but I chose Emily Bronte for this genre. I've heard great things about Wuthering Heights and have been wanting to read it for a while now. WOW! I wanted to strangle them all! I've never read a story about so many obnoxious and selfish people in my life. I have no idea how this became a classic. I will continue with the genre, but Emily Bronte is off my list. It was just horrible.
Memoir: I read My Horizontal Life by Chelsea Handler. This is a comedy story about Chelsea Handler's one night stands. It was a laugh riot and I can't believe I enjoyed a book about someone's dirty little secrets. I plan to read other comedic memoirs.
Horror: I read Youth Who Went Forth to Learn What Fear Was by the Brothers Grimm. This story had ghosts and haunting, but it really wasn't scary. I read a few more Brothers Grimm since then, but I doubt I'll read anymore.
Inspirational: I read Heavenly by Jennifer Laurens. This story is about a guardian angel and an autistic boy. The experiences reminded me of personal experiences I had as a youth. I loved this story and it truly made me feel like someone was looking out for me. I will continue to read this series and hope
Dystopia: This genre is fast becoming one of my favourites. I read Specials by Scott Westerfeld and love this series. I will definitely continue reading this genre.
Sci-Fi: I did not expect to like Sci-Fi, but I guess its not that far of a jump from Paranormal. I read Blacklisted by Gena Showalter. Who thought a world of aliens could be sexy? Gena Showalter, that's who. I loved this series and will keep reading this genre.
Angie (Mind Malfunction) wrote: "Dare You To Read: One Book For Each Genre! DONE!July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012
Contemporary: Visions of Sugar Plums, Janet Evanovich SEPT 30/2011
Erotic: Babysitting the Baumgartners, Selena K..."
Well Done!! What did you think of them Angie - are they genre's you'd read again???
Angie,Great job! Do you have the reviews posted somewhere on this thread? If not, please post for each book if it's a new genre to you and if you would read this genre again. Thanks :)
One Book For Each Genre Challenge July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)
9/16 completed
√Contemporary: Undeniably Yours completed 8/7/11
√Erotic: Changing the Game completed 8/6/11
√BDSM: Roped In completed 11/10/11
GLBT: (f/f) Heart of Change
√Historical OR Regency: It Happened One Autumn completed 10/1/11
√Paranormal: Elijah completed 8/25/11
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
√Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass completed 10/11/11
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Confessions of a Shopaholic
√World Lit/International: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency completed 11/4/11
√Young Adult: The Hunger Games completed 10/11/11
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
√Classic: Pride and Prejudice completed 9/16/11
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.
Classic: Pride and Prejudice was one of my favorite books when I was younger. I read it again and it was difficult for me to read. Everything was full of flourish. I found myself impatient for the characters to just say what they meant! LOL I don't know if it's now that even when I'm reading I'm thinking about all of the million of others things I HAVE to do, but I just didn't enjoy as much as I did previously. *shrug*
Historical or Regency: It Happened One Autumn was FANTASTIC! I am not usually a fan of historical romance, but Lisa Kleypas really makes me question that. I loved Secrets of a Summer Night, but I think I liked this book more because I didn't particularly care for the hero when we met in the first book, but I guess he just needed to fall in love because I absolutely adored him in this! I may have to start reading more historical romances!
Suspense OR Mystery: I listened the Alphabet Mystery Series by Sue Grafton on audiobook, and I have to admit that some books have been better than others. I don't think I would have liked the series as much as I do if I hadn't listened to them. But the first narrator for the series really had a great voice and interpretation of the character, so I got hooked. I had been disappointed with the last few "letters", so I had put the series down for a while. I picked it back up for this challenge and I must say that I really liked T is for Trespass. This book was done differently since we knew exactly who the culprit was from the beginning. Also we got to see the culprits point of view as well as Kinsey's (the main character) throughout the book. It certainly kept me interested, and it has renewed my interest in the series. My only problem now is that there is only up to "U" done so far, so I'll have to wait for the rest of the series to come out. I've been spoiled so far since I started listening to it about a year and a half ago. :)
Young Adult: YA is a relatively new genre for me. I'm glad that The Hunger Games was among one of the first books I've read in the genre. I have a ton of thoughts about it though because I mean, wow, this is a really difficult book to review. As much as I liked it, it made me uncomfortable. What a horrible world to have to live in when we put are young people in such horrible situations! But, are there a lot of young ones in horrible situations right now, too? The brutality and horror during the game were difficult at times, but what was the most difficult was the conditions from where Katniss came. A child without at childhood, a girl not able to enjoy being one. I will say that even though I was having all of these thoughts, I really devoured the book, and I can't wait to read the next one. I'm actually glad that the trilogy is already finished because I don't think I would have been able to wait in between books the way some people had to.
World Lit/International: I read The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and I think this moved just way too slow for me. I really had to work at keeping my attention on it. I'd read a chapter and then go read another book, and so on. I thought if I could get past the beginning, it would get better but it just didn't. I liked the content but no the way it was delivered.
BDSM: Oh, this is one of my FAVORITES! I love erotica especially menage and BDSM. Something about the power exchange speaks to me. Roped In is the book I chose for this genre because I've had it on my TBR for a while. I've read Sindra van Yssel a few times in the past and have really enjoyed her books. This book was also very enjoyable. I like the newbie subs getting introduced to the lifestyle by the more experienced Dom. My only issue was that I thought the love connection was little bit too quick for me to really fall into the story. But, I really liked it otherwise. This is the first book in the Bondage Ranch series, and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
Fran wrote: "Angie,Great job! Do you have the reviews posted somewhere on this thread? If not, please post for each book if it's a new genre to you and if you would read this genre again. Thanks :)"
I've updated my post to include my genre review.
Angie,Thanks so much for posting your reviews. Your Wuthering Heights review cracked me up! I read very little inspirational but your review of Heavenly makes me want to check that one out :)
Since you are our first finisher I feel like there should be some sort of fanfare or prize for you! I guess for now I will just say Congrats Angie!!
7/24Contemporary: Room
Erotic: The Empress' New Clothes
GLBT: Rough, Raw and Ready
Paranormal: Bloodfever
Fantasy: The Name of the Wind
Mystery: And Then There Were None
Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes
World Lit: A Thousand Splendid Suns
International: The Shadow of the Wind
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
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. ☆☆☆☆
Women's Fiction: The Help
This book follows the lives of 3 different women living in Jackson, Mississippi in the early 60's. Two of the women are black maids and the third is a rich white girl who's just graduated from college, she's the only one of her close friends still unmarried and has to figure out what to do with her life. What she really wants to do is write so she decides to tell the story of the help from their perspective. I loved how unique the author was able to make each of these character's voices so, even though the narrator changes often, it was never confusing to know who was talking at any given point. I thought the relationships, both good and bad, were beautifully told and the blending of the events of this story with a little of the history of the civil rights movement was perfect to give a realistic backdrop without pulling you too far out of the narrative. I would recommend this and can't wait to see the movie! ☆☆☆☆
BDSM: Sacrifice
This is the 5th book in the Bound Hearts series, which I've been reading in order, and I liked it a little more than the others. It could be because I've taken a break before reading this one since the stories tend to be very cut and paste but this one had a bit of a different twist to it with the heroine remaining a "virgin" through most of it. Quite an accomplishment for erotica! ;) I also thought Jared was a little more likeable than her past heroes. ☆☆☆
Regency: Dreaming of You
This is my favourite genre and the one I always fall back on when I don't know what to read so it's no surprise that I liked this one but I thought I would like it a lot more (it has a 4.24 Goodreads rating!). Although it was disappointing overall, Kleypas is generally only about 50/50 for me as to whether I love it or not so it shouldn't have surprised that I did not. I didn't like the relationship development and really didn't care for Derek; I thought he was a bit of a prick. It was an ok story with a great ending that redeemed it a little for me, giving it 3 stars instead of 2, but I won't be rereading it. ☆☆☆
Suspense: Hard Evidence
I'm really liking this series by Pamela Claire, although I did enjoy the first book more than this one; I liked both the hero and heroine better as well as the relationship's development. The series reminds me a lot of all the Harlequin Intrigues I used to devour as a teenager but with all the characters intertwined stories I get a much greater connection and I can't wait to see whose story's next! ☆☆☆
Classic: Jane Eyre
I've had this book on my shelf for too many years so it feels good to strike it off the TBR list. Like most classic love stories it was slow with a lot of description and little interaction but what there was showed why this book belongs on a must read list. The conversations between Jane and Rochester were fantastic and the kind that you go back and reread as soon as you finish to make sure you didn't miss a single word! I loved that you get to see Jane develop from a quiet child to a self-possessed woman and that through it all she fights for what she wants and believes in. And poor Rochester; things may not have worked out for the best for him but it was a great ending regardless. ☆☆☆.5
One Book For Each Genre Challenge July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012 (started August 6, 2011)
10/16 completed
√Contemporary: Undeniably Yours completed 8/7/11
√Erotic: Changing the Game completed 8/6/11
√BDSM: Roped In completed 11/10/11
GLBT: (f/f) Heart of Change
√Historical OR Regency: It Happened One Autumn completed 10/1/11
√Paranormal: Elijah completed 8/25/11
Fantasy: King of Sword and Sky
√Suspense OR Mystery: T is for Trespass completed 10/11/11
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Confessions of a Shopaholic
√World Lit/International: The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency completed 11/4/11
√Young Adult: The Hunger Games completed 10/11/11
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
√Classic: Pride and Prejudice completed 9/16/11
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.
Classic: Pride and Prejudice was one of my favorite books when I was younger. I read it again and it was difficult for me to read. Everything was full of flourish. I found myself impatient for the characters to just say what they meant! LOL I don't know if it's now that even when I'm reading I'm thinking about all of the million of others things I HAVE to do, but I just didn't enjoy as much as I did previously. *shrug*
Historical or Regency: It Happened One Autumn was FANTASTIC! I am not usually a fan of historical romance, but Lisa Kleypas really makes me question that. I loved Secrets of a Summer Night, but I think I liked this book more because I didn't particularly care for the hero when we met in the first book, but I guess he just needed to fall in love because I absolutely adored him in this! I may have to start reading more historical romances!
Suspense OR Mystery: I listened the Alphabet Mystery Series by Sue Grafton on audiobook, and I have to admit that some books have been better than others. I don't think I would have liked the series as much as I do if I hadn't listened to them. But the first narrator for the series really had a great voice and interpretation of the character, so I got hooked. I had been disappointed with the last few "letters", so I had put the series down for a while. I picked it back up for this challenge and I must say that I really liked T is for Trespass. This book was done differently since we knew exactly who the culprit was from the beginning. Also we got to see the culprits point of view as well as Kinsey's (the main character) throughout the book. It certainly kept me interested, and it has renewed my interest in the series. My only problem now is that there is only up to "U" done so far, so I'll have to wait for the rest of the series to come out. I've been spoiled so far since I started listening to it about a year and a half ago. :)
Young Adult: YA is a relatively new genre for me. I'm glad that The Hunger Games was among one of the first books I've read in the genre. I have a ton of thoughts about it though because I mean, wow, this is a really difficult book to review. As much as I liked it, it made me uncomfortable. What a horrible world to have to live in when we put are young people in such horrible situations! But, are there a lot of young ones in horrible situations right now, too? The brutality and horror during the game were difficult at times, but what was the most difficult was the conditions from where Katniss came. A child without at childhood, a girl not able to enjoy being one. I will say that even though I was having all of these thoughts, I really devoured the book, and I can't wait to read the next one. I'm actually glad that the trilogy is already finished because I don't think I would have been able to wait in between books the way some people had to.
World Lit/International: I read The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency and I think this moved just way too slow for me. I really had to work at keeping my attention on it. I'd read a chapter and then go read another book, and so on. I thought if I could get past the beginning, it would get better but it just didn't. I liked the content but no the way it was delivered.
BDSM: Oh, this is one of my FAVORITES! I love erotica especially menage and BDSM. Something about the power exchange speaks to me. Roped In is the book I chose for this genre because I've had it on my TBR for a while. I've read Sindra van Yssel a few times in the past and have really enjoyed her books. This book was also very enjoyable. I like the newbie subs getting introduced to the lifestyle by the more experienced Dom. My only issue was that I thought the love connection was little bit too quick for me to really fall into the story. But, I really liked it otherwise. This is the first book in the Bondage Ranch series, and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
Speculative Fiction or Dystopia: I chose dystopia for this part of the challenge, and I read Matched. It's YA and it's about a world that I would never want to live in. It was very interesting to see how different the world would be if every portion of our lives was controlled by the government. And for what reason? To live longer? To not have war? Is that worth it? Interesting questions for me to think about. I will definitely continue with this series.
Current Status - 5/23 and 1 DNF
- yes, I know i'm an overachiever!Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive
Erotic: Raine - Finished - November 15 - I love erotic romance, but this series - I don't even know why I picked up the second one - if anything if was worse than the first. I could deal with the weird sexual issues - double penii and all, but the story just fizzled out - it was like she sat down and said, ok, I hit the word count, i'm done...
BDSM: Ice Queen
GLBT: Divide and Conquer - Finished - October 25 - Holy Ty and Zane hotness - loved this fourth installment in the Cut & Run series, and continuing my love for the m/m genre. Can't say much more without spoilers, but i'll def. be continuing this series and this genre
Historical: Burning Tigress - DNF'd - holy purple prose batman! I read three chapters before I gave up - if i had to hear one more word about her yin going with his yang (or was it the other way around I might have screamed)...I mean, heck, the book started with her and her brother walking in while he had acupruncture needles stuck in his penis and she didn't even blink an eye...WTF!!! - I'll find something else to substitute in here, just not sure what yet
***NEW BOOK***Under Fishbone Clouds
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) - Finished - September 10 - one of the other groups i'm in is doing an around the world in 80 books challenge, I love it because it has made it read books not set in the US/UK/France. This one is a mystery set in Ghana and i enjoyed it. The author grew up there and while he now lives in the US it had an authentic feel. I'll def. be reading more by him in the future.
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
11/15 books readWorld Lit/International: Cutting for Stone
Young Adult:
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Classic: Tess of the D'Urbervilles
Thriller OR Horror: Life Blood
Religious OR Inspirational: Bring on the Blessings
TO READ
READ
Discussion
1. WOMEN'S FICTION: Summer Secrets. This is my second Barbara Freethy book. I still haven't quite decided what I think. I liked this book but it also annoyed me. The plot revolves around 3 sisters and a big family secret that is basically destroying them and their family. That part feels very contrived. So many simple solutions are avoided as they try to maintain the "big" secret. However, I like her writing style and the story does keep you engaged. There is romance, but little sex.
2. CONTEMPORARY: Material Girl After I started this book I realized that I had already read this one a while ago. This happens to me alot when they change the cover. I will have to pick something else if that's okay. I have read alot of Julia London's regency's but this was her first contemporary I read and I enjoyed it quite a bit. I prefer her historical novels more, however. I would like to finish the trilogy however. I like contemporary novels but it is definitely not my favorite genre. I get bored with it easily.
3.EROTIC: Rode Hard, Put Up WetThis is my second book by Lorelei James. I probably won't finish the series. Erotic novels are fun once in awhile but I get bored with them as well. At least Ms. James does have a story along with all the sex but I'm just not crazy about cowboys. This story had two relationships as it's main focus and overall the author handled this well. They younger couple were more interesting and I liked the development of their relationship.
4. MYSTERY:Baltimore Blues This is the first book I have read by this author. I used to read alot of straight up mystery and suspense but stopped after awhile. I wasn't sure about this book. But I have to say that I really enjoyed it and will read more books. This is the first in a series about Tess Monahan, a former reporter for a Baltimore newspaper. She is a really interesting character and I really enjoyed getting to know her. You could feel her development as you read. I liked the people around her and I loved that Baltimore was almost like another person in the story. The murder mystery was solid and I did not guess where it was going. I still prefer a little more romance in my stories, but this was still good.
5.GLBT:Lover's KnotI changed my selection to this book because it became available at the library and it looked really interesting. It is a gothic/historical romance with a mystery and some paranormal elements. I gave it four stars. It is more sensual than explicit, but it is a true love story between men. I loved the historical setting and the tone of the book. Very accurate depiction of the time. It had a wonderful romance and a great storyline. Highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical romance of a more traditional type.
6.PARANORMAL: Bound by BloodThis is not a new genre for me but a new author. This story combines lots of paranormal elements- it is vampire romance as well as a time travel story. The writing is a little awkward- you can almost see the author forming the sentences and it is such a mix of other author's ideas. I liked it okay but there wasn't enough there to make you want to read another.
7. NON-FICTION: Stolen Innocence: My Story of Growing Up in a Polygamous Sect, Becoming a Teenage Bride, and Breaking Free of Warren Jeffs This is not a new genre for me, but I don't read it very often. I usualy enjoy books about someone's life experiences, but I have to say that this was not my favorite. I had a very hard time with the first person story, and even though what was happening was relatively gripping, I couldn't get past the "whiny" tone. The court scenes were very interesting, however. I will definitely read more like this, I just will try and stay away from first person narrative in the future.
8. SPECULATIVE FICTION: Collision Courseis science fiction romance novel. It's pretty steamy and definitely centered on the relationship between the H/h than world building. I have read this author before and really like her work. I don't read alot of science fiction but as long as it's not too full of weird creatures and technical jargon, I'm okay. I would give this story 3.5 stars. I would have preferred more world building and focus on the action. But a pretty quick read and enjoyable. I would read more science fiction.
9. HISTORICAL FICTIONA Winter Ballad: This is not a new genre for me, in fact it started out as my favorite genre many years ago. Combine my love of history and romance in one book=happiness. This is, however a new author for me. This will not be the last I read. Just a lovely story, well written with characters you care about. She is able to evoke a sense of the time- middle ages-without having to spew a bunch of history. It is truly historical romance as the relationship between the two main characters is preeminent in the story. The hero (in the truest sense of the word) and heroine (likewise) are people you come to care about. Great story, beautifully told.
10.FANTASY FICTIONSpellweaver: A Novel of the Nine Kingdoms: Fantasy is not a new genre for me and this is the 5th in a series I have been reading for awhile. It is also by an author that I love, however I am not a huge fantasy reader. I tend to very carefully choose books that are in the fantasy genre. Though lately I have been reading more. That having been said, I love this series. For me it is the perfect blend of fantasy and romance. And by romance, I mean pure romance. Lynn Kurland does not have any sex in her novels. I have come to appreciate that in her books. This novel is one of my favorite in the series. These are not stand alone novels and need to be read in order to understand fully what is going on. The world she writes about is beautiful and frightening all at the same time. It's one of those stories that stays with you after you have read the final page. Wonderful!
YOUNG ADULT The Body Finder This is not one of my favorite genres, though I do read it occasionally. This particular story is about a girl who can sense dead people and I like the fact that it has a supernatural aspect to it. The story is well written and fast paced, but it has a little too much teen angst in it for my liking. I will read more in this genre but very carefully.
One Book For Each Genre Challenge8/16 Done
Contemporary: The Sweetest Thing
Erotic: Passionate Pleasures
GLBT: Caught Running9/10 (3.5*)
BDSM: Silent Heat
Historical/Regency:Lily Mine10/23 (3.5*)
Paranormal:Halfway to the Grave
Fantasy: The Body Finder8/2 (3*)
Suspense: Murder Game
Mystery: And Then There Were None8/5 (5*)
Women's Fiction:Life From Scratch
Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ...
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate11/11 (3*)
Young Adult: Demonglass10/10 (4*)
Optional/Bonus:
Memoir:A Jew Grows in Brooklyn: The Curious Reflections of a First-Generation American8/13
Non-Fiction:Lies that Chelsea Handler Told Me 10/9 (3*)
Inspirational:Chicken Soup for the Soul: Woman to Woman: Women Sharing Their Stories of Hope, Humor, and Inspiration
Discussion:
7.Historical/Regency: Lily Mine by Annabel Joseph: I have read this author before and lots in this genre. I have read much less historical recently because I have just been burnt out on it. I liked this story but it did use a plot device I don't usually care for- impersonating someone else and deceiving others. Luckily the hero asks the heroine to purpetuate this deceit so at least the H/h are in on the ruse together. Although neither of them likes it. There is a bit of light bondage in this historical (it is Annabel Joseph after all!) and maybe a bit steamier than most historicals, but still a sweet story and a nice HEA. I will continue to sparingly read historical in the future and I will definitely keep reading Annabel Joseph.
8.World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel. This is the first time reading this author for me. I have read a few books in the past that describe a culture in depth, but I think this may be the first time where magical realism was part of the storyline. There were some things about this book that I really liked, the magical realism being one of them. But the love story itself seemed so childish and I don't want to give any spoilers away but uplifting this is not. The setting of the Mexican Revolution and the descriptions of Mexican culture were very interesting, and I learned that it was tradition for the first born daughter to give up her independence and chance at marriage to take care of her mother for the mother's entire life. Let's just say that did not sit well with Tita! I would read this genre again and maybe this author too.
Current Status - 6/23 and 1 DNF
- yes, I know i'm an overachiever!Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive - Finished - November 20 - this was my first Julie James and won't be my last. I find that contemporary romance is sometimes hard to pull off because its hard to not date the period and keep it applicable for a few years to come, but Ms James managed to succeed. Loved the interaction between Taylor and Jason and look forward to more.
Erotic: Raine - Finished - November 15 - I love erotic romance, but this series - I don't even know why I picked up the second one - if anything if was worse than the first. I could deal with the weird sexual issues - double penii and all, but the story just fizzled out - it was like she sat down and said, ok, I hit the word count, i'm done...
BDSM: Ice Queen
GLBT: Divide and Conquer - Finished - October 25 - Holy Ty and Zane hotness - loved this fourth installment in the Cut & Run series, and continuing my love for the m/m genre. Can't say much more without spoilers, but i'll def. be continuing this series and this genre
Historical: Burning Tigress - DNF'd - holy purple prose batman! I read three chapters before I gave up - if i had to hear one more word about her yin going with his yang (or was it the other way around I might have screamed)...I mean, heck, the book started with her and her brother walking in while he had acupruncture needles stuck in his penis and she didn't even blink an eye...WTF!!! - I'll find something else to substitute in here, just not sure what yet
***NEW BOOK***Under Fishbone Clouds
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) - Finished - September 10 - one of the other groups i'm in is doing an around the world in 80 books challenge, I love it because it has made it read books not set in the US/UK/France. This one is a mystery set in Ghana and i enjoyed it. The author grew up there and while he now lives in the US it had an authentic feel. I'll def. be reading more by him in the future.
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
12/14Contemporary:
BDSM:
GLBT: Zero at the Bone by Jane Seville
Historical:
Paranormal:
Mystery:
Chick Lit:
International: Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
YA:
Bonus Reads:
Classic:
Non-fiction:
Horror:
Religious:
SciFi:
Discussion: Have you tried this genre before? What did you think about this book/author?
1. Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex- Non-fiction isn't something I typically enjoy, so I don't read much of it. However, I loved this one. I took this with me on a trip to Omaha even though I thought I might be uncomfortable reading it on the plane (but at least I'd be forced to read it since my other options would be limited). I wasn't. It was very funny though shocking in some sections. The lengths that people will go to I was surprised at the lengths some people are willing to go to. I often felt bad for the scientists, who have their research derided and their motives questioned. To all the prudes out there, lighten up this is important research. I think I will check out some of this authors other works. Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers sounds interesting.
2.Dangerous Cravings- Although I enjoy this sort of thing in real life, this is the first BDSM novel I've ever read. I found that I really empathized with Alex and I could relate to most of her thoughts and fears, as well as her occasional self disgust. I haven't looked into anything else Evangeline Anderson has written, but I almost certainly will.
3. The Replacement- I read YA novels, especially ones with a fantasy/ paranormal slant, frequently. I didn't think this one lived up to it's hype. It was supposed to be "dark". Some people had even referred to it as "horror." I didn't think it was either of those things. It was, however, entertaining. I didn't dislike it, or anything. It just wasn't what I wanted it to be. This was Brenna Yovanoff first novel. Will I read her again? Probably.
4. Slave to Sensation- I read a lot of paranormal romance, but this is my first time reading anything by Nalini Singh. I loved this story and I am looking forward to reading more of this series! I thought the three different races was very interesting. But I expected to see more of the shifters in their animal forms. Perhaps that'll get explored later in the series.
5. A Little Princess- One of the things I've been trying to do in 2011 is read more "classics". I wasn't very familiar with this novel when I put it on my list. I only used it because the book was selected for a challenge in one of my other GR groups. That said, it was fairly enjoyable. I really liked the main character, Sara, but the plot was predictable and the stories resolution was a little too convenient. However, if I had children, I think I would enjoy sharing this with them. Sara sets a good example of the importance of being kind even when your life sucks.
6. Beyond the Highland Mist- I don't read a lot of historical romance. And most of what I do read are novels written in the 1800s. However, having just finished the Fever series, I was anxious to give Moning's other series a try. I was initially deterred by the first few chapters. I thought the set up was corny. It was carried out in a clumsy manner and I almost put the book down then. Fortunately, it got a lot better once Adrienne arrived in Scotland. Overall, I loved the story and I definitely will be continuing the series .
7. Duma Key- There was a time in high school when I read everything Stephen King wrote. Back then I waited in eager anticipation for his next novel. But it's been a long time since I read one of his new novels and thought "that was really good". I don't think I've liked much he's written since the Black Tower series ended. Unless Black House was published after that... anyway after multiple mediocre books I stopped reading his new books. So this was a very nice surprise. It was suspenseful and creepy. perhaps there is hope. perhaps I gave him up too hastily.
8. A Certain Justice- When I feel like reading pure mystery, I turn to P.D. James. I feel that she does an excellent job with her characters. I never find them one dimensional or overly cliched.I also enjoy that the officers have to do actual detective work to solve the crime. The criminals aren't apprehended by dumb luck, and the cases are not solved by forensic evidence alone. What can I say? I love James!
9. VALIS- I love Scifi and normally I enjoy Dick, but I hated, loathed, and despised this novel. It was literally sleep inducing. I couldn't stay awake when I was trying to read it, and I was reading in the afternoon when I'm typically most alert. I didn't think much of the story. It seemed eclipsed by information about Gnosticism, which I'm not interested in reading about. At all. I will keep reading Dick's earlier works but I'm removing the rest of the Valis trilogy (and anything else written after '74) from my TBR pile.
10. Strange Bedpersons Finished 10/9
I've read a couple of books by Jennifer Crusie in the past and I must say I liked each of them better than this one. Like the others, this was a light fluffy read. But I found the plot entirely predictable and I thought the leading lady was a two dimensional parody of a feminist. Because I've enjoyed this author in the past, I will probably read more of her in the future, but if this was my introduction to Crusie, I probably wouldn't come back.
11. Making Waves Finished 10/20
Contemporary romance is not my favorite genre. Or at least that's what I tell myself, but I keep finding more and more contemporary romance books that I really enjoy. I probably need to take a step back and ask myself why I'm biased towards this genre. This book was a light-hearted entertaining read. Not since I read The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy for the first time have I laughed so much. Not chuckles but deep belly laughs. This was
Tawna Fenske first novel. I see that she's go another due out in March. I'll definitely be checking it out!
12. Letter to a Christian Nation Finished 11/23
I've read and enjoyed atheist books before even if I didn't agree with everything the author said. I've enjoyed Christopher Hitchens and especiallyRichard Dawkins. However, I did not enjoy this short book. He may have made an occasional good point, but I didn't like the way it was written and I didn't like his attack on religious tolerance.
One Book For Each Genre!July 30, 2011 - June 30, 2012
8 of 24 Complete!
CATEGORIES:
√ 1. Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton – 9/1
√ 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 – 11/4
6. Paranormal: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian
√ 7. Fantasy: Crown of Crystal Flame by C. L. Wilson – 9/16
√ 8. Suspense: No Regrets by Shannon K. Butcher – 9/9
√ 9. Mystery: Heat Wave by Richard Castle – 9/8
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 – 11/29
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 – 9/28
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?
Young Adult: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins, completed 11/29. I enjoy this genre because it seems as if the authors in this genre evoke very honest emotions. Sometimes, like in this book, they are very complex and opposing emotions, but they still ring true. My problem with this genre is that I have a 15-year-old daughter and sometimes when I read this genre I learn more about what girls her age are dealing with and exposed to and it makes me sad. But that’s another story… This is the final book in the series that has led to the revolution being fought in this book. I was struck by the complex mixing of different people’s responses to the events unfolding in the book. I have to admit that I never did like Katniss, but it didn’t stop me from admiring her and feeling her grief and pain. I did like that the romantic triangle was not the focus of this book. Why does there always have to be a love triangle in YA books? I was frustrated with a few of the loose ends that were left in the end, but I appreciated how things that I had doubts about were beautifully tied together in the end. In other words, we were supposed to question some of the events so that we could make the jump to the correct conclusion at the end. It was an exceptional finish to a marvelous series.
Regency: What Happens in London by Julia Quinn, completed 11/4, Message #377.
Speculative Fiction: Ashes, Ashes by Jo Treggiari, completed 9/28, Message #342.
Fantasy: Crown of Crystal Flame by C. L. Wilson, completed 9/16, Message #322.
Suspense: No Regrets by Shannon K. Butcher, completed 9/9, Message #320.
Contemporary: Changing the Game by Jaci Burton , completed 9/1, Message #316.
Mystery: Heat Wave by Richard Castle, completed 9/8, Message #316.
Erotic: Dare to Believe by Dana Marie Bell, completed 8/25, Message #279.
Completed: 6/121. Contemporary: Just the Sexiest Man Alive - √ 26-Nov
2. Erotic: Roane
3. GLBT: Caught Running - √ 10-Sep
4. Historical: Miss Wonderful
5. Paranormal: Wild Fire - √ 16-Aug
6. Suspense: Murder Game - √ 7-Oct
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
*****************
Have you read this genre before?
Yes - but very infrequently... It is not a genre I seek out.
What did you think about this book/author?
It was OK. I rated it 3 stars - this is on the generous side. My brief summary is that it was a cute fairytale - completely unbelievable, but cute. I just couldn't buy into the story at any real level.
7/10 DoneContemporary:
Erotic OR BDSM:
GLBT:Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown
Historical OR Regency:
Paranormal OR Fantasy:
Suspense OR Mystery:
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner
World Lit/International:
Young Adult:
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Thriller OR Horror:Salem's Lot by Stephen King
Contemporary: State of Wonder -- Several years ago I read Bel Canto for Book Club and I remember loving the writing and the characters. I can't imagine why it has taken me so long to pick up another book by this author. State of Wonder once again exhibits this author's amazing talent. In it, a pharmaceutical researcher travels to the Amazon to find a colleague who has been out of touch for 2 years while living with a native tribe and supposedly working to develop a new drug, and to solve the mystery of another colleague who died there. The woman is forever changed by her experiences in the jungle. I highly recommend this book and I will not wait so long to read another book by Ann Patchett.
7/10 DoneContemporary:
Erotic OR BDSM:
GLBT:Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown
Historical OR Regency:
Paranormal OR Fantasy:
Suspense OR Mystery:
Women's Fiction OR Chick-lit: Little Earthquakes by Jennifer Weiner
World Lit/International:
Young Adult:
*OPTIONAL/BONUS Categories:
Thriller OR Horror:Salem's Lot by Stephen King
Contemporary: State of Wonder -- Several years ago I read Bel Canto for Book Club and I remember loving the writing and the characters. I can't imagine why it has taken me so long to pick up another book by this author. State of Wonder once again exhibits this author's amazing talent. In it, a pharmaceutical researcher travels to the Amazon to find a colleague who has been out of touch for 2 years while living with a native tribe and supposedly working to develop a new drug, and to solve the mystery of another colleague who died there. The woman is forever changed by her experiences in the jungle. I highly recommend this book and I will not wait so long to read another book by Ann Patchett.
Dare You To Read - One Book For Each Genre (Round 2)30th July '11 to 30th June '12
4/9 completed
1.
2.Erotic: Broken Wings by Lora Leigh
3.GLBT: Cut & Run by Madeleine Urban
4.
5.
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.
Discussion: Have I read this genre and what did I think of this book/author?
1.Contemporary: Hot Finish by Erin McCarthy - I don't mind contemporary. Tho, I don't really like anything that too close to real slice of life but I enjoy the genre at times. It's a nice break from Vampires and Shifters. :-) As far as Erin McCarthy's Hot Finish goes, I really liked the book. As the first two, this is a quick read. I like the author and will keep reading her future books.
4.Historical:The Wild Rose by Jennifer Donnelly - I love Historical novels. This is my second favorite genre, especially, if it has PNR/Fantasy mixed in. The Wild Rose is the 3rd installment of the Rose Series. So far, the 2nd book's still my most favorite of the series. Tho, I really enjoy this book and Jennifer Donnelly's writting style very much. Definitely a fan, and will keep on reading her books.
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.
One Book For Each Genre Challenge9/16 Done
Contemporary: The Sweetest Thing
Erotic: Passionate Pleasures
GLBT: Caught Running9/10 (3.5*)
BDSM: Silent Heat
Historical/Regency:Lily Mine10/23 (3.5*)
Paranormal:Halfway to the Grave
Fantasy: The Body Finder8/2 (3*)
Suspense: Murder Game12/3 (4*)
Mystery: And Then There Were None8/5 (5*)
Women's Fiction:Life From Scratch
Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ...
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate11/11 (3*)
Young Adult: Demonglass10/10 (4*)
Optional/Bonus:
Memoir:A Jew Grows in Brooklyn: The Curious Reflections of a First-Generation American8/13
Non-Fiction:Lies that Chelsea Handler Told Me 10/9 (3*)
Inspirational:Chicken Soup for the Soul: Woman to Woman: Women Sharing Their Stories of Hope, Humor, and Inspiration
Discussion:
7.Historical/Regency: Lily Mine by Annabel Joseph: I have read this author before and lots in this genre. I have read much less historical recently because I have just been burnt out on it. I liked this story but it did use a plot device I don't usually care for- impersonating someone else and deceiving others. Luckily the hero asks the heroine to purpetuate this deceit so at least the H/h are in on the ruse together. Although neither of them likes it. There is a bit of light bondage in this historical (it is Annabel Joseph after all!) and maybe a bit steamier than most historicals, but still a sweet story and a nice HEA. I will continue to sparingly read historical in the future and I will definitely keep reading Annabel Joseph.
8.World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel. This is the first time reading this author for me. I have read a few books in the past that describe a culture in depth, but I think this may be the first time where magical realism was part of the storyline. There were some things about this book that I really liked, the magical realism being one of them. But the love story itself seemed so childish and I don't want to give any spoilers away but uplifting this is not. The setting of the Mexican Revolution and the descriptions of Mexican culture were very interesting, and I learned that it was tradition for the first born daughter to give up her independence and chance at marriage to take care of her mother for the mother's entire life. Let's just say that did not sit well with Tita! I would read this genre again and maybe this author too.
9.Suspense: Murder Game by Christine Feehan12/3/11. I have read this author before and this series. I really like the Ghostwalkers; hunky, genetically enhanced military guys who love their women something fierce! I admit it, I really like it when the hero is totally consumed with the heroine, bordering on stalkerish; only has eyes (and other body parts) for her. Throw in an ongoing conspiracy and deceit, throw in a new serial killer twist, and another installment of the series is born. For me, it's the relationship between the H/h that really draws me to this series, with the interesting paranormal suspense a bonus. I will definitely continue with the series.
One Book For Each Genre Challenge10/16 Done
Contemporary: The Sweetest Thing
Erotic: Passionate Pleasures
GLBT: Caught Running9/10 (3.5*)
BDSM: Silent Heat12/20 (2.5*)
Historical/Regency:Lily Mine10/23 (3.5*)
Paranormal:Halfway to the Grave
Fantasy: The Body Finder8/2 (3*)
Suspense: Murder Game12/3 (4*)
Mystery: And Then There Were None8/5 (5*)
Women's Fiction:Life From Scratch
Chick-lit: And One Last Thing ...
World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate11/11 (3*)
Young Adult: Demonglass10/10 (4*)
Optional/Bonus:
Memoir:A Jew Grows in Brooklyn: The Curious Reflections of a First-Generation American8/13
Non-Fiction:Lies that Chelsea Handler Told Me 10/9 (3*)
Inspirational:Chicken Soup for the Soul: Woman to Woman: Women Sharing Their Stories of Hope, Humor, and Inspiration
Discussion:
7.Historical/Regency: Lily Mine by Annabel Joseph: I have read this author before and lots in this genre. I have read much less historical recently because I have just been burnt out on it. I liked this story but it did use a plot device I don't usually care for- impersonating someone else and deceiving others. Luckily the hero asks the heroine to purpetuate this deceit so at least the H/h are in on the ruse together. Although neither of them likes it. There is a bit of light bondage in this historical (it is Annabel Joseph after all!) and maybe a bit steamier than most historicals, but still a sweet story and a nice HEA. I will continue to sparingly read historical in the future and I will definitely keep reading Annabel Joseph.
8.World Lit/International: Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel. This is the first time reading this author for me. I have read a few books in the past that describe a culture in depth, but I think this may be the first time where magical realism was part of the storyline. There were some things about this book that I really liked, the magical realism being one of them. But the love story itself seemed so childish and I don't want to give any spoilers away but uplifting this is not. The setting of the Mexican Revolution and the descriptions of Mexican culture were very interesting, and I learned that it was tradition for the first born daughter to give up her independence and chance at marriage to take care of her mother for the mother's entire life. Let's just say that did not sit well with Tita! I would read this genre again and maybe this author too.
9.Suspense: Murder Game by Christine Feehan12/3/11.I don't read a lot of Suspense but there a few series I will read that have Suspense and Romance. I have read this author before and this series. I really like the Ghostwalkers; hunky, genetically enhanced military guys who love their women something fierce! I admit it, I really like it when the hero is totally consumed with the heroine, bordering on stalkerish; only has eyes (and other body parts) for her. Throw in an ongoing conspiracy and deceit, throw in a new serial killer twist, and another installment of the series is born. For me, it's the relationship between the H/h that really draws me to this series, with the interesting paranormal suspense a bonus. I will definitely continue with the series.
10.BDSM: Silent HeatVonna Harper.12/20/11(2.5*)I have read many BDSM themed books. This one was not a good one. I loved the premise of the heroine being deaf, having a disability and exploring this lifestyle. But unfortunately I don't think the author did a good job explaining BDSM to the reader or the inexperienced heroine. I did like her, and was interested in her story, but the love/sex scenes fell flat for me, as well as the confusing BDSM talk/action. I will probably read more titles by this author in the future, but not a BDSM one.
Hi Everyone!I thought I would do a year-end wrap up and see where everyone is in the challenge. Below is the list of participants and the progress made so far. Don't worry, there's still lots of time left! Just thought it would be fun to see how far some of us have gotten (and how far some still have to go, LOL!) I've added many new titles to my tbr based on some of these great reads. Hope you have too :)
Jane- 6/12
Fran- 10/16
Eimeriina- 7/14
Amy J.- 12/14
Sassafrass- 10/16
-Sara- - 7/24
Charlotte- 3/14
MountainKat- 10/14
Ola- 6/10
Dee- 6/23 1 DNF
Sandy- 7/10
Vi- 8/19
Lynne- 8/24
Angie- 16/16 Done!
Leslie- 10/15
Wan- 4/9
D Lord- 2/9
Judithe- 0/10
Shirley- 8/15
Mandy- 2/14
Roxy- 7/9
Nanalla- 0/13
Anna- 3/9
Gigi- 0/9
Sara- 1/11
taita- 0/11
Debbie- 0/9
Bips- 8/12 (Please post discussion answers)
Tina "reading mommy"- 6/9 (Please post discussion answers)
If I've missed anyone, I'm sorry! Just let me know and I will add you to update list.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year Everyone!
Thanks for the update Fran and the reminder. I have 11 more to go. Gotta get back on the wagon.
I want to try this challenge! I'll definitely be done by June...I'll be posting my picks later today :D
Romance Readers Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Phantom Evil (other topics)Hourglass (other topics)
The Winter Rose (other topics)
True Love and Other Disasters (other topics)
Wicked Ties (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Nalini Singh (other topics)Richard Dawkins (other topics)
Jane Seville (other topics)
Tawna Fenske (other topics)
Evangeline Anderson (other topics)
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√Contemporary: Logan by Linda Lael Miller 9/11 ***
Erotic OR BDSM: Wrangled and Tangled by Lorelei James
GLBT: Caught Running by Ma..."
Hi Tina,
When you get a chance, can you please post a short comment about each book read- you just need to answer these questions for genre- Have you tried this genre before? What did you think about this book/author?
Thanks so much!