Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion
2012 Challenge Archive
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2012 March Pick It For Me! Challenge
Leslie wrote: "Hi Fran, I loved picking for you. You had alot of authors that I wasn't familiar with, but they all looked liked really fun books! Here are your picks. I ended up picking from your TBR and my book..."Thanks for the great picks Leslie!
I am going to go with
,
or
. I will try to get to more than one if I can fit it in. Thanks again for the great selection :)
Grace, I am working on your picks and will be posting within the hour (I hope)
Joyce wrote: "I'm in and the egg came first but I hope I'm not too late"Here are your Picks
PICKING RULES: MARCH MADNESS
In the US, March Madness refers to a college basketball tournament which each weekend cuts three-fourths of the teams, from a Round of 64, to a "Sweet Sixteen", to a "Final Four".
You must give your pickee at least 2 selections from their TBR and 2 that are completely new to them.
1. Mad as a March hare: Wicked Appetite by Janet Evanovich. From your TBR shelf
2. Non Compos Mentis: Darkness Unbound by Keri Arthur. This was on my TBR list. I just finished it yesterday.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: The Green Mile by Stephen King
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies
5. Elite 8: Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game by Michael Lewis
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: I Wish… by Wren Emerson, This is a book about withces, not a lot of romance, and very little paranormal. I wasn't sure I was going to like this book when I took it off my TBR list but I ended up loving it. Read it in an entire day.
7. Final 4: The Stand by Stephen King…Post Apocalyptic Book
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: Trick of Light (Trickster #1) by Rob Thurman
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
I was team chicken so I pick….Kissed in Paris by Juliette Sobanet
Hi KarLynP! That's the fastest I've ever gotten my recommendations! I'm so excited! The way I usually do this, is to pick 3 books to read. Because of the way you divided them, I will pick one from my TBR, one from your recommendation and a Buddy Read. Thanks so much for all my picks. They were great!1.Dance of the Winnebagos From my TBR. I love this author. So funny!
2.Firelight I've never heard of this author, but this looked really good.
3. The Mane Event This book has interested me for awhile and again it's an author I've never read. Let me know if you would like to read this together, but I will read it regardless.
TO READ
ANAHere are my picks for you. I hope you find something that you like.
1. Mad as a March hare: Book with an original premise, a funky title or set in Canada
The Princess Bride or Agnes and the Hitman
2. Non Compos Mentis: Book with a plot that deals with the law, religion or magic Moon Called
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Book published at least 16 years ago, with an alpha male or with a main character that's over 40. Comanche Moon
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Go to your GR recommendations and find a book that you think your pickee would enjoy but that you've never heard about before. The Devil to Pay
5. Elite 8: Book with a sports theme (go Eli!) or a best seller/super popular book
The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: Recommend a book from a genre your pickee wouldn't usually read, First Grave on the Right
a book you thought you wouldn't like that you ended up enjoying. The Art of Racing in the Rain
or a funny/light read One for the Money
7. Final 4: Post apocalyptic book, Divergent
latest book published by one of your pickee's favorite authors, Rainshadow Road
book published on a leap year Persuading Annie
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: Go to your pickee's TBR, go to a page at random, and pick the first book that caught your fancy (no thinking!) If by any chance that book is #19 in a series which your pickee hasn't started, pick another page and try again. Halfway to the Grave (one of my very favorite UF authors)
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
If you are from Team Chicken {c}, recommend a standalone you think both of you would like to read.The Night Circus
Nancy, I just got home from a long day @ work and am exhausted. Since I want to give you the best picks possible, I'll have them to you by tomorrow night when I've had some sleep and time to think. :)
Hi KarenH,I have had lots of fun looking through your lists, because we have a lot of books and authors in common, especially in the romance and mystery genres. It seemed easy for me to pick some titles for you, so if you don't find anything here you like, I can add more.
1. Mad as a March hare
Original premise: And One Last Thing by Molly Harper
Funky title: Why My Next Husband Will Be a Dog by Lisa Scottoline. You read Mennonite in a Little Black Dress, and this one is even funnier.
Funky title #2: The Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke - Just because I can imagine someone murdering for a chocolate chip cookie!
Set in Canada: Any of the Anne of Green Gables series, or Emily of New Moon – all by L.M.Montgomery
Non Compos Mentis:
Law: Any by John Grisham on your TBR that you haven't read - I noticed several that deal with law
Religion: Pope Joan by Donna Woolfolk Cross
Magic: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness - I read this one recently and it was really good. It could also fit the 'didn't think I would like it but really did' category
3. (Not So) Sweet 16
Any of the Nero Wolfe series by Rex Stout
Any of the early novels by P.D. James featuring Adam Dalgliesh
Any of the early novels by Martha Grimes featuring Richard Jury
I have LOVED all of these!! I have even re-read some and I rarely re-read books. The Martha Grimes' ones where she used the names of old pubs in England as her titles are some of my all-time favorites.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home
Talk Me Down by Victoria Dahl
Tropical Kiss by Jan Coffey
The Lighter Side of Life and Death by C.K. Kelly Martin
5. Elite 8
Sports theme: Playing for Pizza by John Grisham - I know, another Grisham, but this is NOT about law and it a light and somewhat fun read
Best seller: The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larseen - I saw you had read the first one, so you might want to continue on with this one or if you have already done it, then the third one.
Super popular book: How about a super popular author like Susan Elizabeth Phillips or Charlaine Harris?
6. Nutty as a fruitcake
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie – Alan Bradley
Twenties Girl by Sophie Kinsella
I put off reading both of these for ages, and then absolutely loved them. In fact, I can't buy the Bradley ones fast enough!
7. Final 4
Post apocalyptic book: Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins or The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Latest book published by one of your pickee's favorite authors: Celebrity in Death – J.D. Robb or The Cinderella Deal – Nora Roberts
Book published on a leap year: The Last Time I Was Me by Cathy Lamb - pub. 2008. I loved this one almost as much as Julia's Chocolates but that one was pub. in 2007.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: First one that grabbed my attention:
Male Call (Hot Zone #1) by Denise Agnew
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
Our Lady of Immaculate Deception by Nancy Martin
Semi-Sweet: A novel of Love and Cupcakes by Roison Meaney
I think the first title may eventually be a series, and I have read that author's other series and LOVED it. The second title is a stand-alone as far as I know. I would love to do a Buddy Read for either of these. I already have Semi-Sweet but will pick up the other one if you want to do it. Let me know if you think you would like to do either one.
Hope you can find something you like. Happy Reading!
Shell wrote: "Nancy, I just got home from a long day @ work and am exhausted. Since I want to give you the best picks possible, I'll have them to you by tomorrow night when I've had some sleep and time to think..."That's fine, Shell. Take your time. I am in the middle of reviewing a big stack of YA books that I have to do, so I have plenty to keep me occupied, even for the next several days. Maybe this will give me motivation to get some of those done before I read "my" books for my own pleasure!
Hi, Nancy - thanks for the great picks. There are so many to choose from I'm not sure where to go first! Actually, that's not true, because I know I will be reading Celebrity in Death. I hope to get to at least one or two others, but have no idea which ones yet. I'm also not sure about the buddy read - I have to see how the rest of my challenges work out, but I'll let you know soon. Thank again! :)Mounika, I'm working on your picks now, and should have them up in an hour or two!
For Sara, hope you like 'em scrambled, I feel like this list is all over the place. 1. Mad as a March hare:A Quick Bite- A Vampire who faints at the sight of blood, and set in Canada.
2. Non Compos Mentis: Enchantment- Magical time travel version of Sleeping Beauty
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: The Summer Tree - Published 1984, several main characters over 40, it was on your TBR list and it is one of my all time favorite series! I read it in high school and still go back and re-read it every few years.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home:Take the Cake- It was in my GR recs under funny romance. I thought the cover was cute, hope it is good.
5. Elite 8: It Had to Be You, I just added this to my TBR last week.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: Born of Night- I wasn't sure about ailens when I started this but now I am addicted to the series
7. Final 4: The Host-Post apocalyptic with out being horribly depressing.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: The Goose Girl- Love this book.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
The Princess Bride, well really just because I think it may have been the only stand alnoe we both had on our shelves. To bad because we had lots of series in common.
Grace wrote: "For Mommaseymour:Hey Grace, it all sounds good to me. Can't wait to get started! Thanks
Debbie wrote: "Grace, I am working on your picks and will be posting within the hour (I hope)"Yay!
For Lauren (aplpeach)-I hope that you enjoy my picks. If there is something you are opposed to let me know and I can pick something else. I tired to pick books that I have rated 4 or 5 stars.
1.Mad as a March Hare: On the Edge by Ilona Andrews (original premise / on your TBR List)
2.NonCompos Mentis: Spider's Bite by Jennifer Estep (Law and Magic also on your TBR List)
3.(Not So)Sweet 16: The Secret by Julie Garwood (published 1992 / I love this author and this book!)
4.The lights are on, but nobody's home: Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter (Recommendation that matched my Angels,Demons,Magic Users,Must Read,Shifters,Vampire,Witches/Warlocks Shelves. I took that as a sign. lol)
5.Elite 8: The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton (Yes, the cover is Hot! It is about a Football player.)
6.Nutty as a fruitcake: I will give you a choice bc I am not sure what you exact limits are for books. Both books are in a genre I don't read from often but I got a recommendation for and fell in love with these books.
Flat-Out Sexy by Erin McCarthy (Contemporary Romance)
Or
Club Shadowlands by Cherise Sinclair (Contemporary/Erotica Romance, I just found this series and have read 4 books in under a week. I really enjoy these)
7.Final 4: Angelfall by Susan Ee (Post apocalyptic book / Loved It!)
8.Neither rhyme nor reason: Reckless Magic by Rachel Higginson (Your TBR List Random pick that sounded interesting)
9.Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
If you are from Team Egg (e), recommend a 1st in a series that you'd both like to read.
Song of the Moon by Catherine Banks (1st book in series we are both interested in reading)
My Pick's For You
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or
)
For LauraHope you can find something interesting to read from my picks below. Happy March!
1. Mad as a March hare: Book with an original premise
The Raven Prince – This one's already on your TBR list. I love this book! It's a unique story about a widow who falls in love with her boss. It's also a hot, hot, HOT read! I think you'll enjoy it.
2. Non Compos Mentis: Book with a plot that deals with magic
Daughter of the Forest – I believe this is also on your TBR. This book is a variation of a fairytale I remember as a kid about a girl who has to make sweaters for her brothers out of stinging nettles without making a sound. It's a nice fantasy/magic story.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Book published at least 16 years ago with an alpha male
Almost Heaven – This was first published in 1989. I loved the hero Ian Thornton. If you're familiar with Judith McNaught's work, you know this one's a winner.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Go to your GR recommendations and find a book that you think your pickee would enjoy but that you've never heard about before.
My False Heart - I'm shooting in the dark on this one. It sounded good when I read the synopsis.
5. Elite 8: Book with a sports theme
Flat-Out Sexy - I don't read a lot in this genre but this one did catch my eye. It's a romantic series on Stock Car Racing. It's a fun, light contemporary read.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: Funny/light read
The Secret History of the Pink Carnation - This book literally had me Laughing Out Loud! It's also on your TBR. Worth a look.
7. Final 4: Post apocalyptic book
I have two Young Adult recommendations for this. The Giver is on your TBR. It's OK, but disturbing. Matched is a little more a romance. It was an interesting premise. Not sure how they match up to others you have read though.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: First book that caught your fancy on your pickee's TBR
India Black - I saw that this was about espionage and was immediately intrigued. The cover also caught my eye.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg? Team Egg (e), recommend a 1st in a series that you'd both like to read.
Wicked Intentions - This is the first of the Maiden Lane Series. I love Elizabeth Hoyt. I haven't read a book from her that I haven't liked. Let me know if you would be up for reading this.
Grace, sorry it took so long. Got distracted ..... Anyways, had a blast looking through your large tbr and seeing all the books you have already read. Here you go with a few that I think you might find interesting. 1. Mad as a March hare: As for an original premise, the first Steampunk book that I read was Gail Carriger's Soulless. I know that steampunk is becoming more popular, but when this one came out, it was original to me.
2. Non Compos Mentis: oh no, you don't have any Sarah Addison Allen books. I have to recommend for the magic category that you go with one of her books. My favorite is what I call a gentle romance with a touch of magic Garden Spells but all of her books are wonderful (IMHO)
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: I haven't read too many books that have been published 16+ years ago, but I did notice that you had Rebecca on your tbr, that is one that I really liked and it was originally published back in 1938.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: My GR recommendations shows several that you would probably like but that I have never heard of. I am going with a contemporary romance - how about Simply Irresistible by Jill Shalvis (which I see is also on your tbr, but not mine --- till now)
5. Elite 8: As for best seller/super popular books I think one of the few that neither of us have on our lists is The Help. I have heard really good things about it, but don't really know. Might want to try it, I know I do, sooner or later.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: For a funny or light read, you can't go wrong with Janet Evanovich and she has a new short stand alone with Hero at Large and it is on your tbr so you were interested at some point. You haven't read any of her books and should start somewhere. If not there, maybe book 1 of Stephanie Plum - One for the Money.
7. Final 4: Post apocalyptic book, the first book that came to my mind was the Hunger Games which it looks as though you have read. So, go with one of your most read authors. You have all of the Black Dagger Brothers (even though you haven't rated them all) by J.R. Ward, but I don't see the her Fallen Angels series. You should try it, starting with Covet
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: 726 To Be Read books, lots to choose from. As suggested, I just picked a page and found one that looked good. I happen to have the Incarceron series on my tbr also, so that one really jumped out at me.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg? Team Egg This one is fun, we both seem to like similar books, and we both have Larissa Ione's Eternal Rider (book #1 of Lords of Deliverance. I am up for it if you are - just let me know :)
Well there you have it, I hope you can find something for this month (March).
~ Happy reading
Debbie
Hi Mounika!I had fun looking through your bookshelves - our tastes appear to be enough alike to give me some ideas, but different enough for it still to be a challenge.
1. Mad as a March hare: Both of these have fairly original plots, one with a rather funky title, The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, and the other set in Canada - A Quick Bite
2. Non Compos Mentis: Naked in Death involves law, with the main character being a police detective, and Magic in the Wind (Drake Sisters, #1) is the first book in a series about sisters with magical powers.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: A Kingdom of Dreams is from your TBR and was first published over 16 years ago (1989), and Hidden Away has a VERY alpha (and yummy) hero.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Captured by the Highlander - I noticed that you have the 2nd and 3rd books in this series on your TBR, but not the first. Or, one that you already have on your TBR is To Conquer a Highlander.
5. Elite 8: One of my favorite sports-themed books is The Perfect Play, for the cover if nothing else! But the story is good too. And I can't pass up the opportunity to recommend The Help - it's amazing!
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: I've never been a huge fan of historicals (although I enjoy them a lot more now than I used to), so for a long time whenever I started one I had very low expectations. A couple that I really loved when I was expecting them to be just okay at best are Texas Destiny and Only His. Or if you're looking for something light and humorous, Simply Irresistible is wonderful.
7. Final 4: Julie Garwood is an author you've rated highly, but mostly just her historicals. Why not check out her latest release which is a totally different genre: The Ideal Man. Or, something from your TBR that is post-apocalyptic and published in a leap year: The Hunger Games
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: The first book I noticed on the page I picked was Virgin River. I love this book, and the whole series.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg? A couple of books that are first in series that we both have on our TBR are Dragon Bound and If You Dare. I'd be happy to read either one with you!
I hope you find something you like, if not let me know and I'll be happy to try again!
Hi, Mountainkat! Here are your picks. Let me know if there's nothing you're in the mood for and I can pick again.1. Mad as a March hare: Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison or A Bite to Remember by Lynsay Sands
2. Non Compos Mentis:A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness or Immortal in Death by J.D. Robb
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught or Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh or An Accidental Goddess by Linnea Sinclair
4. 4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Immortal Warrior by Lisa Hendrix or Dance Through Time by Lynn Kurland
5. Elite 8: Causing Havoc by Lori Foster or Double Play by Jill Shalvis
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones or Bunny and the Bear by Eve Langlais
7. Final 4: The Next Always by Nora Roberts or Devil of the Highlands by Lynsay Sands
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: Slightly Shady by Amanda Quick
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?:Shades Of Twilight by Linda Howard or Chasing Fire by Nora Roberts
Lady Jaye wrote: "Hi Yz. Here are your picks. I put a lot of my own favorites this time around, so I hope you can find something, and that you enjoy them. Of course I'm always happy to repick. Hope you enjoy.1. Ma..."
That was quick. Love the recs. I'm having a hard time choosing, but I'm leaning towards The Raven Prince or Cry Wolf.
The rest for now joins my crazy TBR.
Again, thanks for the wonderful recommendations.
Megan L!Hello! I'll post your picks tomorrow. It's late here and your TBR list is kind of long. I want to make sure I don't repeat anything. :)
Brett,Here are your picks. I hope that you find something that you like.
1. Mad as a March hare:
Riding the Storm by Sydney Croft
Hot in Here by Sophie Renwick
If I Stay by Gayle Forman and takes place in Canada. A very emotional read, but very worth it.
2. Non Compos Mentis:
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness - I really enjoyed this book and I am excited for the next book in the series to come out.
Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison - This is one of my favorite series.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16:
Glory in Death by J.D. Robb - You liked the first book in this great series so why not try the next one.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home
When Darkness Comes by Alexandra Ivy
Master of the Mountain by Cherise Sinclair
5. Elite 8:
Sports Theme: It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Sports Theme: Simply Irresistible by Rachel Gibson
Super Popular: Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: The first two are historical romances, you don't seem to read many of those. All of the books in this category are humorous and had me laughing quite a few times.
The Lion's Lady by Julie Garwood - I love her!
Mine Till Midnight by Lisa Kleypas - the second book is my favorite of this series.
Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James
7. Final Four: Post Apocalyptic books that I gave 5 stars to
The Passage by Justin Cronin
The Strain by Guillermo del Toro
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
8. Neither rhyme nor reason:
Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch
9. Buddy Read:
Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
or
Charlie All Night by Jennifer Crusie
Alyssa-I am working on your picks. I will have your them tomorrow. Probably after 5pm MST, USA. It's time for me to get some sleep. 5am comes very fast!!
Debbie wrote: "Grace, sorry it took so long. Got distracted ..... Anyways, had a blast looking through your large tbr and seeing all the books you have already read. Here you go with a few that I think you migh..."Thank you for the picks and the friendship. My TBR is ridiculous--I'm always buying new books and I still haven't added all of the ones on my shelves to the TBR and I have a shipment of about 150 new books coming to me. It's a problem.
I would definitely love to Buddy Read Eternal Rider. I have been meaning to get to that series but keep putting it off.
Yz the Whyz wrote: "Lady Jaye wrote: "Hi Yz. Here are your picks. I put a lot of my own favorites this time around, so I hope you can find something, and that you enjoy them. Of course I'm always happy to repick. Hope..."I really liked Cry Wolf. It was nice to see Samuel's brother. Actually, to be honest I picked this book up way before I read Mercedes Thompson series. I know unheard of, but it is true.
~KarenH~ wrote: "Hi Mounika!I had fun looking through your bookshelves - our tastes appear to be enough alike to give me some ideas, but different enough for it still to be a challenge.
1. Mad as a March hare:..."
Hey Karen,
The picks are really good. I just can't decide what to read :D I have Dragon Bound ,If You Dare and I'm interested in reading both. Lemme know which one you prefer :)
That has been my problem too - it is on my shelf but I keep letting something else go first. Maybe a little mutual nudge in that direction????? :) Grace wrote: "I would definitely love to Buddy Read Eternal Rider. I have been meaning to get to that series but keep putting it off. "
Debbie wrote: "That has been my problem too - it is on my shelf but I keep letting something else go first. Maybe a little mutual nudge in that direction????? :) Grace wrote: "I would definitely love to Budd..."
I need more of a kick in the face :) Just let me know when you want to start with Eternal Rider. I have to see if I even have a print copy or an ebook.
Hey Valerie!Here are my picks for you. Let me know what you think!
1. Mad as a March hare: Book with an original premise, a funky title or set in Canada
How to Breathe Underwater by Julie Orringer, a book of short stories or The Botticelli Secret by Marina Fiorato. How to… short stories are tied together thematically by the struggle to transition into adulthood. The Botticelli Secret is a fictional accounting of the origin of Botticelli’s painting Primavera. I liked it for the elements of art, history and mystery tied together.
2. Non Compos Mentis: Book with a plot that deals with the law, religion or magic
The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern, Hourglass by Myra McEntire. I really liked both of these books! The Night Circus is very atmospheric and descriptive. Hourglass has a great cover and is about time travel. Although it is YA, I think it has many elements of mystery.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Book published at least 16 years ago, with an alpha male or with a main character that's over 40.
Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead. I see that you’ve read other Richelle Mead books. I’ve only read the Georgina Kincaid series. A little bit of a cheat, since Georgina is a succubus from Ancient Greece. I’ve also been reading Ashley Gardner’s Captain Lacey Regency Mysteries: The Hanover Square Affair. Captain Lacey is a retired soldier (from the Napoleonic wars) who is a bit older, not very wealthy and is guided by an instinct to do the right thing for others.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Go to your GR recommendations and find a book that you think your pickee would enjoy but that you've never heard about before.
A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole. I just started reading J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood, which is why this has popped up as a recommendation. Even though it is listed as book 2 in the series, book 1 is a prequel. (Thanks Penney for noting this in your review!)
5. Elite 8: Book with a sports theme (go Eli!) or a best seller/super popular book
The Help by Kathryn Stockett a must read after all the movie chatter or Any Man of Mine by Rachel Gibson (hockey players!)
6. Nutty as a fruitcake:Recommend a book from a genre your pickee wouldn't usually read, a book you thought you wouldn't like that you ended up enjoying or a funny/light read.
The Last Letter from Your Lover by JoJo Moyles or Before I Go to Sleep by S.J. Watson. Neither of them is funny or light. They’re both set in England and both are about emotional marriages. I liked them both (meaning they made me cry). I think they might be different from your usual choices.
7. Final 4:Post apocalyptic book, latest book published by one of your pickee's favorite authors, book published on a leap year
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline or Feed by Mira Grant. I enjoyed Ready Player One for the funny 80s references and video game play. Feed was darker in tone (zombies!) but I found it a bit satirical with the political overtones.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason:Go to your pickee's TBR, go to a page at random, and pick the first book that caught your fancy (no thinking!) If by any chance that book is #19 in a series which your pickee hasn't started, pick another page and try again.
A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
If you are from Team Chicken {c}, recommend a standalone you think both of you would like to read.
If you are from Team Egg (e), recommend a 1st in a series that you'd both like to read.
A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter; you recently added it to your tbr, and I think we might both enjoy it. Or, A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole.
Both of these books are interesting to me and would love to read them as a buddy read.
Happy reading!
@Jessica Here are your picks. I hope you will find something you like.
1. Mad as a March hare: Book with a funky title
The Cat Who Could Read Backwards by Lilian Jackson Braun
2. Non Compos Mentis: Book with a plot that deals with magic
Deep Wizardry by Diane Duane
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Book published at least 16 years ago
The Children of Húrin by J.R.R. Tolkien
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Go to your GR recommendations and find a book that you think your pickee would enjoy but that you've never heard about before.
Charmed Life by Diana Wynne Jones
5. Elite 8: A best seller/super popular book
A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: A book you thought you wouldn't like that you ended up enjoying
The Host by Stephenie Meyer
7. Final 4: Post apocalyptic book
I am Legend by Richard Matheson
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: Go to your pickee's TBR, go to a page at random, and pick the first book that caught your fancy (no thinking!) If by any chance that book is #19 in a series which your pickee hasn't started, pick another page and try again.
Pandora's Box by Gracen Miller
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg? If you are from Team Egg (e), recommend a 1st in a series that you'd both like to read.
Pleasure Unbound by Larissa Ione
Erin wrote: "Hi, Mountainkat! Here are your picks. Let me know if there's nothing you're in the mood for and I can pick again.1. Mad as a March hare: Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison..."
Oh goodness Erin - so many books to choose from!! There are six or seven that I am really interested in reading. Maybe eight or nine... I'm not sure which one I will get to, but Immortal in Death is pretty high on my list!
Hello Diane Firefly, I am picking for you and your recs will be here in a few hours, hopefully!
Here you go, Dawn. I had fun going through your list. Let me know if you need me to repick any for you. 1. Mad as a March hare:
The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross
The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
2. Non Compos Mentis:
For Nothing by Nicholas Denmon
Bitter Night by Diana Pharaoh Francis
About That Night by Julie James
3. (Not So) Sweet 16:
The Mercenary by Cherry Adair (pub. 1994)
The Heat by Heather Killough-Walden (2 Alpha males)
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home:
Raphael by D.B. Reynolds
Ghost of a Chance by Kate Marsh
Dixie Divas by Virginia Brown
5. Elite 8:
The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton
Hard and Fast by Erin McCarthy
6. Nutty as a fruitcake:
Spying in High Heels by Gemma Halliday (I don't normally go for books with bubble-headed blondes as the lead character, but I found this very humorous.)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling (Not my typical type of book, but I found myself unable to put it down after I had started it.)
Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith (Christian Romance, not something I usually read, but the female lead's family had me laughing outloud)
7. Final 4:
Lover Reborn (BDB #10) by J.R. Ward (not released until later in the month)
Silver-Tongued Devil by Jaye Wells
Lothaire by Kresley Cole
8. Neither rhyme nor reason:
Heart of the Dragon by Gena Showalter
Light Switch by Lauren Gallagher
9. Buddy Read: I was Team Egg
Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow
A Quick Bite by Lynsay Sands
First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost
Let me know if you want to do any of the buddy reads.
Hey Cathy!Here are my picks for you. I hope you find something you like!
1. Mad as a March hare:
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery, very sweet and beautifully written book set in Canada, I love this series
A Girl's Guide to Vampires by Katie MacAlister, liked the title
2. Non Compos Mentis:
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia, a lot of magic in this book
Rage Of Angels by Sidney Sheldon, a very good law-thriller by one of my favorite authors
3. (Not So) Sweet 16:
The Bride by Julie Garwood, first published 1989 and has an alpha male caracter
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home:
Angelfall by Susan Ee
A Woman of Substance by Barbara Taylor Bradford
5. Elite 8:
See Jane Score by Rachel Gibson, you liked the first in series, so why not continue reading
6. Nutty as a fruitcake:
Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding, really funny and light read and I think Bridget is just adorably nutty
7. Final 4:
The Garden Intrigue by Lauren Willig
8. Neither rhyme nor reason:
Stray by Rachel Vincent
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
Simply Irresistible by Jill Shalvis OR
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Gigi, here are my picks for you. I hope you can find something you like!1. Mad as a March hare: This was a difficult selection to narrow down, so I didn't do a very good job at it. I picked a couple of books with what I thought were interesting premises, the first is Claiming the Courtesan by Anna Campbell. The hero in this book is rather unlikable for the first half of the book, but by the end I loved him! The second book is Be Mine Tonight by Kathryn Smith, it is a historical paranormal and a different look at vampires. I really liked the whole series. A couple of Canadian books would include A Quick Bite by Lynsay Sands or the classic Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery.
2. Non Compos Mentis: I just had to pick Extreme Exposure by Pamela Clare here. I loved this book! The hero is a Senator and it is set in Colorado if you are doing the monthly challenge. ; )
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: My pick for any yummy Alpha hero is always going to be from a Lisa Marie Rice book, any of them would do, but the one you have on your TBR shelf is Midnight Man. I love all of her books!
4. The Lights are on, but nobody's home: Interesting way to pick, but I think I added several to my TBR doing it! How about either A Tall, Dark, Cowboy by Mackenzie McKade or Romeo, Romeo by Robin Kaye?
5. Elite 8: This one was sooooo easy! The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton, I mean all you have to do is drool over, I mean look at, the cover and how can you not pick it!? Seriously, just look -
!! And the story is even good too!6. Nutty as a fruitcake: It looked like you didn't have much Romantic Suspense on your book shelves, so I thought I might add some. One of my favorite books is The Darkest Hour by Maya Banks. A great book and a great introduction to the Kelly brothers - I want one of my own! And since you like Linda Howard, I wanted to suggest the first one of her books I read Open Season. It was laugh out loud funny at times and yet has a little of the suspense I was trying to suggest. Another option is To Die For, also by Linda Howard. This book fits this category in a couple of ways, it was funny and because it is written in first person POV, I didn't think I was going to like it as much as I did.
7. Final Four: My first pick is Fifty Shades Freed by E.L. James, you liked the first two so it makes sense you would like the third too. Another option would beThe Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, it fits in several ways.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: He Loves Lucy by Susan Donovan. I've heard this is good and Lucy is my granddaughter's name! =)
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg? A Kiss at Midnight by Eloisa James and we both have it on our TBR, so I thought it would be a good choice. And who can resist a fairy tale...
ETA: Gigi, I mistakenly put Erin's name here - these picks for you, she picked for me and I had just answered her before typing yours up! I am so sorry! Anyway, I hope you like them!
Lady Jaye wrote: "Archangel by Sharon Shinn. It is one of my all-time favorite books, and I hope you love it if you read it. NB: If you do decide to read it, pay particular attention to the summary on the back of the book before you start! - it makes for a very interesting discovery :D ."I loved Archangel too. I picked it up on a whim and I was blown away. And the romance.. I have yet to pick up the next book. Have you read the rest? How are they?
Once I started doing the recs, stopping was really hard. I'm glad you liked the recs. There were so many choices in your TBR that I had a hard time restricting myself. (Yep, I restricted myself). If you'd like to buddy read any of them, let me know.Lexa wrote: "Wow Vi! I wasn't expecting your picks for awhile yet :) You had great timing since I just posted my recommendations as well :)
I think I want to read well... everything! But, there's probably not time. I'll look through what I'm reading for other challenges and get back to you :)
"
Hi Elke!Here are my picks for you. Hope you’ll find something interesting!
1. Mad as a March hare: Book with an original premise, a funky title or set in Canada – “Practice makes Perfect” by Julie James. I like this title soooo much! Her best book, IMO.
2. Non Compos Mentis: Book with a plot that deals with the law, religion or magic – “Ritual Sins” by Anne Stuart. It’s a dark, strong book with religion theme.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Book published at least 16 years ago, with an alpha male or with a main character that's over 40 – “My Dearest Enemy” by Connie Brockway. It was published in the ’90 and has a great alpha hero.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Go to your GR recommendations and find a book that you think your pickee would enjoy but that you've never heard about before – “Always to remember” by Lorraine Heath. Never heard of, but it seems interesting.
5. Elite 8: Book with a sports theme (go Eli!) or a best seller/super popular book – “It had to be you” by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (great book with sport theme) or “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins (best seller, on your TBR)
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: Recommend a book from a genre your pickee wouldn't usually read, a book you thought you wouldn't like that you ended up enjoying – “Fifty Shades of Grey” by EL James or “Dirty” by Megan Hart (not my usual choice, but I liked them)
7. Final 4: Post apocalyptic book, latest book published by one of your pickee's favorite authors, book published on a leap year – “A Rogue by Any Other Name” by Sarah Maclean (published today!)
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: Go to your pickee's TBR, go to a page at random, and pick the first book that caught your fancy (no thinking!) – “I am the Messenger” by Markus Zusak
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
If you are from Team Chicken {c}, recommend a standalone you think both of you would like to read – “One day” by David Nicholls or “The Last Boyfriend” by Nora Roberts
Let me know!
Ciao,
Ana
Hi Lauren (Azkaban2010),Here are your picks – I’ve tried to get as many as possible from your TBR to make it easier but also tried to include some new ones – hope you find some to enjoy.
1. Mad as a March hare:
The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde – this is very different, it’s set in a world where there are people who can enter the books they are reading.
How to Marry a Millionaire Vampire by Kerrelyn Sparks – from your TBR, I love the idea of a vampire going to a dentist.
2. Non Compos Mentis:
Something About You by Julie James – from your TBR, it’s about an FBI agent and an assistant US attorney
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman – Different from the film but just as good if not better
3. (Not So) Sweet 16:
The Grand Sophy by Georgette Heyer – my favourite of her books and it’s certainly older than 16 years.
The Darkest Hour by Maya Banks – from your TBR, an ex-navy seal – definitely an alpha hero
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home:
One Reckless Summer by Toni Blake – contempory
Out of Body by Stella Cameron – a paranormal
They both look pretty good and I’ve added them to my TBR
5. Elite 8:
Simply Irresistible by Rachel Gibson – Chinooks Hockey Team
It Had to Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips – Chicago Stars
- I Love both of these series but the SEP possibly has the edge
6. Nutty as a fruitcake:
Can You Survive the Zombie Apocalypse? by Max Brallier – I do like Zombie and horror book and this one is unusual because you make the choices like the fighting fantasy books I used to read as a child.
The Cruelest Cut by Rick Reed – This was an unexpected because it was free for my kindle and I never expect much from a freebie.
Second Chance by Virginia Jewel – another freebie.
7. Final 4:
The Stand by Stephen King – the best post apocalyptic book ever
On the Beach by Nevil Shute – set in Australia in the aftermath of a nuclear war in the 50’s. The book seems slow with everyone carrying on with their lives while waiting to die but the small moments make it poignant.
The Next Always by Nora Roberts – One of your top authors
Lethal by Sandra Brown – another of your most read authors
8. Neither rhyme nor reason:
Desperately Seeking a Duke by Celeste Bradley – the bright cover caught my attention
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
Sword of Darkness by Kinley MacGregor – from your TBR. I’ve read a lot of the Dark Hunter books, so would be happy to give this a try.
Deadly Descent by Kaylea Cross – from your TBR. Looks good.
Hi Rishinka!. I should have you picks up some time this morning :)
Yz the Whyz wrote: "D.G.~Shameless Hussy~Okay, I have your recs and they are a mixed-bag of books, so I'm hoping that you will find something that will appeal to you."
Thanks so much for the picks!
I can't decide between Lord of the Fading Lands, On the Edge, Causing Havoc, Every Other Day, Twins or The Dom Who Loved Me!
The first two I already have, the second pair I can get from the library and the last two are at a price I can buy. :) I'll definitely let you know what I end up reading. :)
Cathy wrote: "ANAHere are my picks for you. I hope you find something that you like.
Hi Cathy!
Thanks for your picks!
I think I'll start with "The perfect play". It's been on my TBR list a looong time.
Ciao,
Ana
Thanks to everybody who has stepped in to answer questions. :)Miss - I'll have your picks later today. I have a half-day presentation this morning so I've been working on it since yesterday evening. :)
"Hi penny,No problem, take your time.
Aleksandra, I'm working on your picks. You'll have them later today.
-Gigi
MountainKat wrote: "Erin, here are my picks for you. I hope you can find something you like!1. Mad as a March hare: This was a difficult selection to narrow down, so I didn't do a very good job at it. I picked a..."
Hi Mountainkat!! I think you're supposed to pick for me. I could be wrong though.
D.G., is that correct or did I have too much to drink last night?
Susan (susayq),Wow you’ve got a big TBR pile! I hope you can find some recommendations here that you like!
1. Mad as a March hare: I was having trouble with this category, so I went to your “sooner rather than later” shelf and made some picks from there. I love this title : Bad Boys Do by Victoria Dahl. It’s kinda funky. ☺ Or, how about Simply Irresistible by Rachel Gibson? It has to do with hockey which is very popular in Canada! And I love the cover. I’m adding these to my own TBR pile!
2. Non Compos Mentis: Since you’re in on the J.D. Robb buddy read, I feel safe recommending Ceremony in Death. You might also be interesting in trying Storm Front by Jim Butcher.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: (alpha male) I’ve got to go with Caressed By Ice by Nalini Singh on this one. You’ve already read the first two in the series, and Caressed by Ice one was one of my favorites! Alpha males galore in this series.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: Since you seem to like historical romance, how about one of these: The Chief by Monica McCarty or A Night to Surrender by Tessa Dare
5. Elite 8: Since you gave The Perfect Play four stars, how about continuing that series with Changing the Game by Jaci Burton.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: I notice that you’ve got some UF on your TBR pile, but it doesn’t look like you’ve read much of them. So, I’m going to recommend two of my favorites: Moon Called by Patricia Briggs and Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews.
7. Final 4: (Post apocalyptic book) It looks like you haven’t read The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I just read it myself earlier this month and loved it!
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: I decided to go to lucky page 13 and found Sphinx's Princess by Esther M. Friesner. I’ve never heard of it before but it sounds really interesting and I added it to my own TBR pile.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
How about How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper, book 1 in her Naked Werewolf series? I’ve never read Molly Harper, but this one was recommended to me in February’s PIFM. I never got around to reading it in February, but I’ve heard good things and would be up for a buddy read if you are.
Hey Roxy,
Here are your recs!
1. Mad as a March hare: Double Clutch by Liz Reinhardt, I thought the title was a bit strange for an intense young adult love triangle plot. Anyway, this book is good with a capital G.
2. Non Compos Mentis: Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, this is a Christian romance with some touching moments in which a man of God is directed to marry a prostitute
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Sweet Dreams by Kristen Ashley, this book is really popular. If you don’t like strong language, than maybe it’s not for you. But the relationship is delicious and I enjoyed the possessive hero.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: The Bargain by Mary Jo Putney, I thought it sounded interesting. The synopsis is a bit of a laugh.
5. Elite 8: A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught, a lot of people love this book and I am one of them. The heroine is one of the best I’ve ever read. This is one of my favourites.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: 50 Shades of Grey by E.L. James, this book really surprised me. It’s deals with a lot of emotions and heartbreak. It’s also a very intelligent novel. I noticed you don’t read any erotica, but I thought you might want to give this one a go.
7. Final 4: Enclave by Ann Anguirre, I found this one unusual. It was a good mix of fighting, horror, and tenderness. You have to read it to believe it.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: The Daughter of Siena by Marina Fiorato, I have no idea what this book is about, but I liked the cover and the title.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
My Sweet Folly by Laura Kinsale, one of my favourite authors
Here are your recs!
1. Mad as a March hare: Double Clutch by Liz Reinhardt, I thought the title was a bit strange for an intense young adult love triangle plot. Anyway, this book is good with a capital G.
2. Non Compos Mentis: Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, this is a Christian romance with some touching moments in which a man of God is directed to marry a prostitute
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Sweet Dreams by Kristen Ashley, this book is really popular. If you don’t like strong language, than maybe it’s not for you. But the relationship is delicious and I enjoyed the possessive hero.
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: The Bargain by Mary Jo Putney, I thought it sounded interesting. The synopsis is a bit of a laugh.
5. Elite 8: A Kingdom of Dreams by Judith McNaught, a lot of people love this book and I am one of them. The heroine is one of the best I’ve ever read. This is one of my favourites.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake: 50 Shades of Grey by E.L. James, this book really surprised me. It’s deals with a lot of emotions and heartbreak. It’s also a very intelligent novel. I noticed you don’t read any erotica, but I thought you might want to give this one a go.
7. Final 4: Enclave by Ann Anguirre, I found this one unusual. It was a good mix of fighting, horror, and tenderness. You have to read it to believe it.
8. Neither rhyme nor reason: The Daughter of Siena by Marina Fiorato, I have no idea what this book is about, but I liked the cover and the title.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
My Sweet Folly by Laura Kinsale, one of my favourite authors
Gigi wrote: "Hi Mountainkat!! I think you're supposed to pick for me. I could be wrong though. "Yep, she has to pick for you. Erin is supposed to pick for MountainKat.. which she has done.
Christine, thank you so much! You have some great ones on there for me. I'm definitely going to read Ceremony in Death and Caressed By Ice. I've been putting off reading Moon Called, but this was the push I needed and I'll pick it up this month. I may get to some more, I'll let you know.And yes! I'd love to do the buddy read on How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf with you! Just let me know when is good for you :)
Susan (susayq) wrote: "Christine, thank you so much! You have some great ones on there for me. I'm definitely going to read Ceremony in Death and Caressed By Ice. I've been putting off readi..."Awesome! I'm so glad you like your picks. I can start How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf as early as Thursday or Friday if you want to get to it right away. Otherwise, I'm pretty flexible on when to fit it into the reading schedule. Once we pick a date, I'll set up a thread in the dare you to read folder for anyone else who might want to join us.
Romance Readers Reading Challenges
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It Had to Be You (other topics)Zero at the Bone (other topics)
Dance of the Winnebagos (other topics)
At Grave's End (other topics)
Attachments (other topics)
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Lisa Kleypas (other topics)Erin McCarthy (other topics)
Sarah Addison Allen (other topics)
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1. Mad as a March hare: Book with an original premise -
Archangel by Sharon Shinn. It is one of my all-time favorite books, and I hope you love it if you read it. NB: If you do decide to read it, pay particular attention to the summary on the back of the book before you start! - it makes for a very interesting discovery :D
2. Non Compos Mentis: Deals with magic
Unholy Ghosts by Stacia Kane. I read it this month - definitely quite unique in the UF world. I think you'll like it.
3. (Not So) Sweet 16: Published at least 16 years ago
The Painted Lady by Lucia Grahame. AWESOMENESS. Published May 1st 1993. If you ever have the chance, read this one, ;).
4. The lights are on, but nobody's home: GR recommendations
The Raven Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt. This one caught my eye
5. Elite 8: A best seller/super popular book
Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs. I saw you hadn't read this one yet.
6. Nutty as a fruitcake:
Claiming the Courtesan by Anna Campbell. So I'm cheating a bit here. I didn't go into the book with any expectations, but I ended up surprised by how much I loved this book.
7. Final 4:
Fair Game by Patricia Briggs coming out in this leap year in 8 days, Squeee!!!
Angelfall. Susan Ee's post-apocalpytic book that everyone is raving about
8. Neither rhyme nor reason:
Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase.
9. Buddy Read...Chicken or Egg?
As I'm an egg, we could do a buddy read of
Some Girls Bite by Chloe Neill