Barbara's Challenges & Reading Lists discussion
2017 Archived Challenges
>
2017 Wacky Reading Challenges
50 States 
READ: 50/50
✔Alabama - Allegiance - Susanna Sandlin 3/17
✔Alaska - Better To Rest - Dana Stabenow 4/15
✔Arizona - Don't Look Now - Linda Lael Miller 4/2
✔Arkansas - The Bird Eater - Ania Ahlborn 2/13
✔California - The Madness of Mercury - Connie Di Marco 5/18
✔Colorado - All That Bleeds - Kimberly Frost 6/15
✔Connecticut - Books Can Be Deceiving - Jenn McKinlay 4/7
✔Delaware - She'll Never Live - Hunter Morgan 10/14
✔Florida - The Scent of Jasmine - Jude Devereau 6/11
✔Georgia - Afterlight - Elle Jasper 9/6
✔Hawaii - Rogue Wave - Boyd Morrison 3/4
✔Idaho - Almost Like Being in Love - Christina Dodd 12/31
✔Illinois - Concrete Savior - Yvonne Navarro 7/7
✔Indiana - Dearly Depotted - Kate Collins 4/3
✔Iowa - The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend - Katarina Bivald 3/17/17
✔Kansas - The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster - Scott Wilbanks 11/29
✔Kentucky - Dark Roots and Cowboy Boots -Luann McLane 7/13
✔Louisiana - Malevolent - Jana DeLeon 12/16
✔Maine - Fatal Fixer-Upper - Jennie Bentley 7/17
✔Maryland - Bad Nights - Rebecca York 2/23
✔Massachusetts - A Case of Need - Michael Crichton 3/11
✔Michigan - The Chocolate Pirate Plot - JoAnna Carl 1/7
✔Minnesota - Me, Myself and Why? - Mary Janice Davidson 1/1
✔Mississippi - The Quiet Game - Greg Iles 5/20
✔Missouri - A Killing Frost - Hannah Alexander 12/27
✔Montana - Lions, Tigers, and Sexy Bears Oh My! - Candace Havens 6/17
✔Nebraska - Hotwire - Alex Kava 4/29
✔Nevada - Lucky Bastard - Deborah Coonts 6/7
✔New Hampshire - Silent Auction - Jane K. Cleland 6/25
✔New Jersey - One Dog Night - David Rosenfelt 4/21
✔New Mexico - The Curse of Tenth Grave - Darynda Jones 1/11
✔New York - On What Grounds - Cleo Coyle 3/20
✔North Carolina - I Think I Love You - Stephanie Bond 1/14
✔North Dakota - Immune - Shannon Mayer 12/30
✔Ohio - Spellbent - Lucy Snyder 9/5
✔Oklahoma - The Harder You Fall - Gena Showalter 8/31
✔Oregon - The Accidental Alchemist - Gigi Pandian 3/28
✔Pennsylvania - Stuck In Shangri-La - Kasey Michaels 4/18
✔Rhode Island - Fish Perfume - Sammie Grace 3/6
✔South Carolina - Full Scoop -Janet Evanovich 5/6
✔South Dakota - Forbidden Embers - Tessa Adams 9/11
✔Tennessee - 14 - J.T. Ellison 3/30
✔Texas - One Lucky Cowboy - Carolyn Brown 5/28
✔Utah - Dead Dry - Sarah Andrews 12/13
✔Vermont - Casting Spells - Barbara Bretton 12/28
✔Virginia - Die Like an Eagle - Donna Andrews 5/21
✔Washington - Changeling - Yasmine Galenorn 5/11
✔West Virginia - Brother - Ania Ahlborn 10/28
✔Wisconsin - Dead Sexy - Tate Hallaway 4/8
✔Wyoming - The Last Good Man - Kathleen Eagle 2/17
First Quarter Scavenger - Historical Landmarks of New Jersey
Duration: January 1 - March 31, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. HANGER NO. 1, LAKEHURST NAVAL AIR STATION:
Site of the Hindenberg Disaster on May 6, 1937.
☀Read a book in which a disaster occurs, or a book in which a flight takes place.
A Walk Across the Sun - Corban Addison (tsunami)1/9
✔2. GREAT ATLANTIC AND PACIFIC TEA COMPANY WAREHOUSE:
This nine story warehouse building once owned by the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company, built in 1900, is now an artist live/work space.
☀Read a book originally published prior to 1900, or a book in which an artist plays a part.
Three Sisters - Susan Mallery (one of the M.C. is an artist) 2/4
✔3. HERMITAGE:
A beautiful stone house where George Washington stayed during the American Revolutionary War.
☀Read a book in which war plays a part, or a book whose title begins with 'H'.
The Hawk and His Boy - Christopher Bunn 1/31
✔4. SANDY HOOK LIGHTHOUSE:
The oldest working lighthouse in the US, it was designed by Isaac Conro, and built in 1764.
☀Read a book with a source of light on the cover, or a book whose author initials can be found in ISAACCONRO.
Blue Monday - Nicci French 1/26
✔5. SHADOW LAWN:
Now part of Monmouth University, this palatial home was originally built for the president of the F.W. Woolworth Company.
☀Read a book with a beautiful building or a beautiful lawn shown on the cover, or a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in SHAWDOWLAWN.
Off Kilter - Hannah Reed 1/1
✔6. WASHINGTON'S CROSSING:
Washington's crossing of the Delaware in Washington Crossing, New Jersey and Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania.
☀Read a book with an American flag or some type of ship found on the cover, or a book with a character whose first or last name is George or Washington.
Yours, Mine, and Ours - Mary Janice Davidson 2/19
✔7. WALT WHITMAN HOUSE:
The final resting place of American poet Walt Whitman, it is located in Camden, New Jersey. Whitman purchased the home for $1,750.
☀Read a book of poetry, or a book you got a good deal on.
White Lion's Lady - Tina St. John 2/22
(got years ago at a book sale for 50 cents)
✔8. SPEEDWELL VILLAGE FACTORY:
Where Alfred Vail and Samuel Morse first demonstrated the electric telegraph in 1838.
☀Read a book whose title begins with the letter 'S', 'V' or 'F'.
The Final Cut - Catherine Coulter 1/5
✔9. PAULSDALE:
The birthplace and home of Alice Paul, a leader in the Women's Suffrage movement.
☀Read a book by a female author, or a book with a strong female lead character.
Graced - Amanda Pillar 1/17
✔10. NASSAU HALL:
Nassau Hall is the oldest building at Princeton University, and the largest building in New Jersey when it was built in 1754.
☀Read a book in which a college is mentioned or the largest (in terms of page number) book on your TBR.
The Never List - Koethi Zan (villain is a college professor) 3/9
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
First Quarter Spell - New Jersey Spell Challenge Duration: January 1 - March 31, 2017
READ: 42/42
G: Midnight's Master - Donna Grant 1/28
R: Ravens - George Dawes Green 1/28
E: Some Like It Scot - Suzanne Enoch 1/8
A: Lost - Alice Lichtenstein 2/4
T: The Thrall's Tale - Judith Lindbergh 1/8
A: The Bird Eater - Ania Ahlborn 2/13
T: Storm's Heart - Thea Harrison 1/30
L: Crow Lake - Mary Lawson 1/15
A: In Cold Pursuit - Sarah Andrews 2/24
N: Nautier and Wilder - Lora Leigh 1/23
T: Tuesday's Child - Dale Mayer 2/18
I: The Cannibals - Iain Lawrence 1/5
C: The Curse of Tenth Grave - Darynda Jones 1/11
A: The Lady in Question - Victoria Alexander 2/25
N: Blue Monday - Nicci French 1/26
D: Me, Myself and Why? - Mary Janice Davidson 1/1
P: 2066 - Peter Brandt 2/23
A: The Savage Altar - Åsa Larsson 3/4
C: The Chocolate Pirate Plot - JoAnna Carl 1/7
I: I Think I Love You - Stephanie Bond 1/14
F: Fair Game - Jasmine Haynes 1/21
I: The Immortals of Meluha - Amish Tripathi 1/15
C: The Chase - Clive Cussler 2/7
T: Tick Tock - James Patterson 2/5
E: The Edge of the World - Kevin Anderson 1/13
A: The Accidental Alchemist - Gigi Pandian 3/28
C: The Storm - Clive Cussler 2/15
O: On the Accidental Wings of Dragons - Julie Wetzel 2/11
M: Time Thief - Katie MacAlister 2/24
P: The Murder of King Tut - James Patterson 2/10
A: Allegiance - Susanna Sandlin 3/17
N: Night Reigns - Dianne Duvall 2/11
Y: Sword of the Rightful King - Jane Yolen 1/17
W: The Beekeeper's Ball - Susan Wiggs 1/12
A: Aunt Dimity, Vampire Hunter - Nancy Atherton 3/26
R: The Memorist - M.J. Rose 1/29
E: Eleventh Grave in Moonlight - Darynda Jones 2/6
H: Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
O: Oryx and Crake - Margaret Atwood 1/2
U: Unchained - Caris Roane 3/22
S: Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
E: The Edinburgh Dead - Brian Ruckley 2/23
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Favorite Album - The Shepherd's DogDuration: January 1 - February 28, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. THE SHEPHERD'S DOG:
The Shepherd's Dog is the third studio album by Iron & Wine.
➜Read a book whose title begins with 'S', or the third book of a series, or the third book from your TBR.
Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
✔2. COVER:
The cover is a painting of a dog, with the very a very interesting mix of the following colors: yellow, purple, red, black and white.
➜Read a book with a dog shown on the cover, or a book with a yellow, purple, red, black, or white cover.
Me, Myself and Why? - Mary Janice Davidson 1/1
✔3. GENRE:
The Shepherd's Dog is listed as being in the Folk Rock genre.
➜Read a book in which the author's first and last initials can be found in FOLKROCK.
On the Growl - Celia Kyle 1/18
✔4. LENGTH:
The album is 49 minutes, 45 seconds long.
➜Read a book from your TBR found somewhere between positions #45 and #49, or read a series book #4, #5, or #9.
Some Like It Scot - Suzanne Enoch (Scandalous Highlanders #4) 1/8
✔5. PRODUCER:
Brian Deck and Sam Beam produced the alum.
➜Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in BRIANSAM.
Blue Monday - Nicci French 1/26
✔6. LABEL:
The album was released on the Sub Pop label.
➜Read a book with a character whose first or last initial can be found in SUBPOP.
Graced - Amanda Pillar (Olive Brown) 1/17
✔7. RELEASE DATE:
The Shepherd's Dog was released on September 25, 2007.
➜Read a book that was originally published in September (any year), or a book that was originally published in September.
The Final Cut - Catherine Coulter (pub Sep 17, 2013) 1/5
✔8. U.S. BILLBOARD 200:
The album debuted at #24 on the U.B. Billboard 200, selling approximately 32,000 copies in the first week.
➜Read a book with less than 24 Goodreads ratings, or a book with over 32,000 Goodreads ratings.
Oryx and Crake - Margaret Atwood (155,588 ratings) 1/2
✔9. TWILIGHT:
"Flightless Bird, American Mouth" was chosen by Kristen Stewart (Twilight's female lead actor) for the film's prom scene.
➜Read a book that has been made into a movie, or a book with the word "flight", "bird", "American" or "mouth" found in the title.
Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
✔10. IRON AND WINE:
Iron and Wine is the stage name for American singer-songwriter Sam Beam. He was born in South Carolina, but has also lived in Virginia, Florida and North Carolina. Besides voice, his other instruments are: guitar, banjo, piano, percussion, harmonica and bass.
➜Read a book set in South Carolina, Virginia, Florida or North Carolina, or a book with a character connected to or working in the music industry, or a book with a musical instrument shown on the cover.
I Think I Love You - Stephanie Bond (North Carolina) 1/14
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
January Mini Challenge
READ: 5/5
✔1.January 2nd is National Science Fiction Day and January 6th is National Cuddle Up Day. This makes it a perfect time to cuddle up a read some books.
• Read a book that is tagged Science Fiction on its GR home page OR Read a book where theauthor’s first AND last initials can be found in ‘CUDDLE UP.’
Darkness Dawns - Dianne Duvall 1/25
✔2.January 9th is National Clean Off Your Desk Day and the 11th National Step in the Puddle and Splash Your Friends Day. It is time to clear of a book on your TBR shelf and have some fun.
• Read a book that has been on your TBR shelf for more than a year OR Read a book where friendship is an important part of the storyline.
The Memorist - M.J. Rose (added Mar 2009) 1/29
✔3.January 15th is National Hat Day and National Strawberry Ice Cream Day. January 15th is a popular day.
• Read a book with a hat found on the cover OR Read a book in which the first letter of each title word (all words count) can be found in ‘STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM.’
A Walk Across the Sun - Corban Addison (S TrAWberry ice creAm) 1/9
✔4.January 24th is National Compliment Day and January 26th is National Green Juice Day. It is always nice receiving and giving compliments and green juice fits in with getting healthy after all the holiday sweets.
• Read a book that has a 4* or higher rating on Goodreads OR Read a book with a green cover.
Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/5
---------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
✔N: Nautier and Wilder - Lora Leigh 1/23
✔E: Venom - Jennifer Estep 1/21
✔W: The Beekeeper's Ball - Susan Wiggs 1/12
✔Y: Sword of the Rightful King - Jane Yolen 1/17
✔E: The Edge of the World - Kevin Anderson 1/13
✔A: Omens - Kelley Armstrong 1/28
✔R: Ravens - George Dawes Green 1/28
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
January Word Search 20/20 FOUND
✔Beard - Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
(his gray beard carefully trimmed), p14
✔Boots - The Curse of Tenth Grave - Darynda Jones 1/11
(and heavy motorcycle boots), p88
✔Cake - Oryx and Crake - Margaret Atwood 1/2
(clutches on to the reality of those cakes), p50
✔Charming - Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
(he looked like Prince Charming from fairy tales), p51
✔Diamonds - The Cannibals - Iain Lawrence 1/5
(stealing diamonds, I suppose), p177
✔Forbidden - Oryx and Crake - Margaret Atwood 1/2
(if you tried these forbidden things often enough), p128
✔Fountain - Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
(a fountain of exhilaration lifted), p257
✔Ham - Off Kilter - Hannah Reed 1/1
(a thin slice of ham), p44
✔Kingdom - Oryx and Crake - Margaret Atwood 1/2
(two chatrooms - Kingdom Animal, Kingdom Vegetable), p80
✔Lamp - The Curse of Tenth Grave - Darynda Jones 1/11
(the Asian woman stopped trying to hit my lamp), p31
✔Maiden - The Chocolate Pirate Plot - JoAnna Carl 1/7
(the yacht headed out on its maiden voyage), p231
✔Mouse - Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
(like a pair of cats with a mouse), p118
✔Thread - Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
(it's like trying to thread a needle), p252
✔Thumb - Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
(putting his thumbs up), p84
✔Weary - Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
(Maddox seemed weary), p22
Optional Words
✔Brocade - Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
(the brocade of his coat felt warm), p36
✔Cabbage - The Cannibals - Iain Lawrence 1/5
(you tell them this, you great cabbage), p48
✔Happily Ever After - I Think I Love You - Stephanie Bond 1/14
(how to live happily ever after), p98
✔Nutshell - The Curse of Tenth Grave - Darynda Jones 1/11
(in a nutshell, is he good or evil), p6
✔Tailor - Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
(tailor made for his purposes), p260
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
February Mini Challenge
READ: 13/13
✔1.February 4th is National Homemade Soup Day and the 7th is national Send a Card to a Friend Day. This month is is time to get comfortable and read about friendships and mysteries.
• Read a book that is tagged Cozy Mystery or Read a book where a letter is written.
A Harvest of Bones - Yasmine Galenorn 2/8
✔2. The 10th is National Umbrella Day and the 11th is National Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day . Umbrella are great for both rainy and sunny days. Despite the uses of umbrellas, sometime you find yourself with out one. Life and books are both full unexpected events.
• Read a book with rain or the sunshine on the cover or Read a book where something unexpected happens.
Three Sisters - Susan Mallery 2/4
✔3.The 17th National Random Acts of Kindness Day and the 20th is National Love Your Pet Day. "The level of our success is limited only by our imagination and no act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted." -Aesop
• Read a book in which the first letter of each title word (all words count) can be found in ‘RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS’ or Read a book with an animal on the cover.
So Sure Of Death - Dana Stabenow 2/16
✔4. The 26th is National Tell a Fairy Tale Day followed by 28th National Public Sleeping Day. Fairy Tales continue to inspire new books. I find it interesting to see the twists authors put well know tales. With this being the shortest month of the year you might find yourself staying up late trying to all your reading in.
• Read a retelling of a Fairy Tale or Read a book that keeps you up at night.
Eleventh Grave in Moonlight - Darynda Jones (up til 3 AM reading) 2/6
---------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
✔C: The Chase - Clive Cussler 2/7
✔H: Dead Ice - Laurell K. Hamilton 2/21
✔O: On Her Father's Grave - Kendra Elliott 2/27
✔C: The Covert Wolf - Bonnie Vanak 2/9
✔O: On the Accidental Wings of Dragons - Julie Wetzel 2/11
✔L: Lost - Alice Lichtenstein 2/4
✔A: The Bird Eater - Ania Ahlborn 2/13
✔T: Tuesday's Child - Dale Mayer 2/18
✔E: The Edinburgh Dead - Brian Ruckley 2/23
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
February Word Search18/20 FOUND
✔Bus - Rogue - Katy Evans 2/2
(I've been dropped off by the bus), p38
✔Cat - Eleventh Grave in Moonlight - Darynda Jones 2/6
(opening the bag and let the cat out), p25
✔Doorbell - Scarecrow - Matthew Reilly 2/4
(Knight pressed the doorbell to the castle), p244
✔Florist - The Chase - Clive Cussler 2/7
(a florist's shop), p194
✔Frozen - Immortal - Traci L. Slatton 2/2
(the breath frozen in my chest), p8
✔Hook - Tick Tock - James Patterson 2/5
(the fish was on the hook), p140
✔Inspection - Scarecrow - Matthew Reilly 2/4
(wanted the US Government to carry out that inspection today), p311
✔Newspaper - Rogue - Katy Evans 2/2
(I sit behind an open newspaper), p46
✔Radiator - The Chase - Clive Cussler 2/7
(it's gleaming brass radiator), p264
✔Rope - Rogue - Katy Evans 2/2
(with think hemp rope), p233
✔Small talk - Yours, Mine, and Ours - Mary Janice Davidson 2/19
(she never does small talk), p131
✔Suit - Rogue - Katy Evans 2/2
(one of the guys steps forward with a suit), p15
✔Toolbox - The Chase - Clive Cussler 2/7
(with a toolbox perched in his lap), p258
✔Trailer - The Last Good Man - Kathleen Eagle 2/17
(pulling a trailer behind the white pickup), p103
✔Wheelchair - Rogue - Katy Evans 2/2
(even weak and in a wheelchair), p14
Optional Words
✔Clogs - Three Sisters - Susan Mallery 2/4
(she wore jeans and clogs), p10
Flowerbed -
(), p
iPad -
(), p
✔Journalist - The Chase - Clive Cussler 2/7
(a gathering place for newspaper journalists), p181
✔Lanky - Scarecrow - Matthew Reilly 2/4
(tall and lanky the Zulu was gigantic), p227
Favorite Album - Ocean AvenueDuration: March 1 - April 30, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. Ocean Avenue:
Ocean Avenue is the fourth studio album released by American rock band Yellowcard.
♫Read the fourth book on your TBR or the fourth book of a series.
Allegiance - Susanna Sandlin 3/17
✔2. Yellowcard:
Yellowcard was formed in Jacksonville, Florida in 1997. They have been based in Los Angeles since 2000.
♫Read a book set in either Florida or California, or a book whose title begins with the letter 'Y'.
You and I, Me and You - Mary Janice Davidson 4/13
✔3. Cover:
The album cover shows a beautiful sunset in the background.
♫Read a book with a sunset showing on the cover, or one with a female person on the cover (no one else - just the woman).
Some Like It Wild - Teresa Medeiros 3/13
✔4. Length:
The album is 47 minutes, 16 seconds long.
♫Read a book from your TBR that is found somewhere between position #16 and #47.
A Case of Need - Michael Crichton (#34) 3/11
✔5. Genre:
The album is considered to be from the Pop Punk genre.
♫Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in POPPUNK. No word minimum, but all words count.
One Kick - Chelsea Cain 3/4
✔6. Producer:
Ocean Avenue was produced by Neal Avron.
♫Read a book with a character whose first or last name begins with 'N' or 'A'.
Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan (Ariana) 3/4
✔7. Release Date:
The album was released on July 22, 2003.
♫Read a book that was first published in 2003, or a book that was published in July (any year).
The Savage Altar - Åsa Larsson 3/4
✔8. Billboard 200:
Ocean Avenue reached #23 on the US Billboard 200. It sold over 11,000 copies in its first week in the US. It was certified Platinum on July 14, 2004.
♫Read a book with the number 2 or 3 found in the total number of pages.
Rogue Wave - Boyd Morrison (392 pages) 3/4
✔9. Studio:
The album was recorded at Sunset Sound in Hollywood, California.
♫Read a book that has two different title words beginning with the same letter When Maidens Mourn - C.S. Harris 3/14
✔10. Label:
Ocean Avenue was released on the Capitol label.
♫Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in CAPITOL.
One Fell Sweep - Ilona Andrews 4/1
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
March Mini Challenge
READ: 15/15
✔1. March 2nd is National Old Stuff Day, this day is all about trying something new. March 7th is National Be Heard Day, this day is dedicated to small businesses trying to be noticed.
•Read a book by a new to you author OR Read a book published by an indie author or small press publishing company.
Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
✔2. This is a busy week. March 12th is my birthday, National Plant a Flower Day and Daylight Saving, it is a sign spring is coming and longer days are on their way. March 20th is the official start of spring. March 15th is National Everything You Think is Wrong followed by March 16th National Everything You Do is Right Day. So this week, your thinking might be off but your actions will be correct.
•Read a book with a dessert, flowers, or sunlight on the cover OR Read a book that has a character who goes thorough a transformation.
Allegiance - Susanna Sandlin (heroine turned into a vampire) 3/17
✔3. March 18th is National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day not to be confused with National Oatmeal Cookie Day which is not until next month, April 30th. Lacy Oatmeal cookies are a thin wafer cookie usually served with ice cream. March 22nd is National Goof Off Day, it is time to take a break from work and focus on something you enjoy.
•Read a short book between 75-150 pages (for this task the 125 page limit requirement does not have to be observed) or Read a book from a favorite author.
Nothing Gold Can Stay - Dana Stabenow 3/11
✔4. March 30th is National Take a Walk in The Park Day, it is nice to get some fresh air and enjoy the signs of spring. Since, I love books and talking a walk everyday I’m thankful to audio books. March 31st is National Crayon Day, I love brand new crayons and my very favorite crayon is Cerulean Blue.
•Listen to an audio book OR Read a book with a colorful or your favorite color cover.
Echoes in Death - J.D. Robb 3/29
--------------------------------------------------------------------
5. SPELL OUT:
✔L: The Legacy - Linda Lael Miller 3/27
✔E: Eaten - Susan Crockford 3/7
✔P: Phantom Shadows - Dianne Duvall 3/19
✔R: Rogue Wave - Boyd Morrison 3/4
✔E: 14 - J.T. Ellison 3/30
✔C: A Case of Need - Michael Crichton 3/11
✔H: Hot Pursuit - Kathryn Jensen 3/9
✔A: Aunt Dimity, Vampire Hunter - Nancy Atherton 3/26
✔U: Unchained - Caris Roane 3/22
✔N: The Never List - Koethi Zan 3/9
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
March Word Search 18/20 FOUND
✔Abuse - Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
(all I did was heap on the abuse), p61
✔Ankle - Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
(a stabbing pain shot fire through her ankle), p110
✔Backyard - Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
(staring out the kitchen window at the backyard), p198
✔Bloom - St. Patrick's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 3/8
(the lilacs and apple trees bloomed), p195
✔Cookies - St. Patrick's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 3/8
(an assortment of little cakes and cookies), p32
✔Diary - Fish Perfume - Sammie Grace 3/6
(we decided to watch our ultimate favorite "Bridget Jones Diary"), p163
✔Electricity - Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
(the rolling, hissing mass of electricity), p86
✔Gardening - The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend - Katarina Bivald 3/17
(the monster was interrupted in his gardening by the shadows), p186
✔Homeless - Finding Perfect - Susan Mallery 3/2
(time-out. you were homeless), p47
✔Ledge - Eaten - Susan Crockford 3/7
(around the window ledge of her home), p40
✔Resentment - St. Patrick's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 3/8
(stifling a stab of resentment), p31
✔Roommate - Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
(exchanged a pained glance with their other roommate), p15
✔Swimming - Dark Enchantment - Kathy Morgan 3/4
(which left her swimming in supposition), p198
✔Teenager - Rogue Wave - Boyd Morrison 3/4
(they were barely teenagers), p17
✔Truth - St. Patrick's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 3/8
(because, truth be told), p1
Optional Words
Eulogy
Grand Opening -
(), p
✔Mayor - Finding Perfect - Susan Mallery 3/2
(so when the mayor called Pia), p33
✔Rooftop - Eaten - Susan Crockford 3/7
(the rooftop terrace is available), p124
✔Shoebox - St. Patrick's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 3/8
(and found the shoebox she used for odd bits of ribbon), p85
Second Quarter Scavenger - Historical Landmarks of Ukraine
Duration: April 1 - June 30, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. BALACLAVA BATTLEFIELD:
The Balaclava Battlefield was the site of a major battle of the Crimean War (1853-1856).
☀Read a book in which war takes place or where war is mentioned, OR a book whose title begins with "B".
Born of Vengeance - Sherrilyn Kenyon 4/12
✔2. KIEV PERCHERSK LAVRA:
Kiev Perchersk Lavra is a historic Orthodox Christian monastery. Founded in 1051, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
☀Read the oldest book on your TBR (one that has been there the longest), OR a book in which the word "church" or "monastery" is found.
The Conquest - Yxta Maya Murray 4/22
(acknowledged as a considerable asset by his superiors at his monastery), p194
✔3. SOFIYIVSKY PARK:
Sofiyivsky Park is a type of botanical garden founded in 1796 by Count Stanislaw Szczesny Potocki. Today it is a popular recreational spot, with annual visitation of 500,000.
☀Read a book with a garden scene on the cover, OR a book by an author whose first or last name begins with 'S'.
Once Upon Stilettos - Shanna Swendson 4/9
✔4. CHERSONESUS:
Chersonesus is an ancient Greek colony founded approximately 2,500 years ago. It is located on the shore of the Black Sea. It has been nicknamed the "Ukranian Pompeii".
☀Read a book with a color in the title ( example: The Red Tent), OR a book in which a character has a nickname.
Ultraviolet - R.J. Anderson 5/6
✔5. KHOTYN FORTRESS:
The Khotyn Fortress is a fortification complex on the right bank of the Dniester River in western Ukraine. Construction on the current fortress was started in 1325.
☀Read a book whose title begins with 'K' or ends with 'N', OR a book in which the numbers 1, 3, 2 and 5 can be found in the book's ISBN (located on the main book page).
The Girl with the Golden Gun - Ann Major 4/11
✔6. LAKE SYNEVYR:
Lake Synevyr is the largest lake in the Carpathian Mountains of Ukraine. Scientists estimate that the lake formed about 10,000 years ago.
☀Read a book with a body of water on the cover, OR a book that has 10,000 or more here on Goodreads.
The House at Sea's End - Elly Griffiths 4/6
✔7. OLESKO PALACE:
A castle dating back to 1327, it is oval in shape, and stands on a hill. At different times the castle was owned by Poland, Lithuania, and Hungary.
☀Read a book in which the story takes place in more than one country, OR a book with 300+ pages.
Fever Dream - Douglas Preston (Zambia and USA) 4/27
✔8. ODESSA OPERA AND BALLET THEATER:
The Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater is the oldest theater in Odessa, Ukraine. It opened on February 10, 1810. The original structure was destroyed by fire in 1873.
☀Read a book published in February, OR a book in which a fire takes place (can be any type of fire - burning building or structure, bonfire, etc).
White Heat - Jill Shalvis (wildfire in Mexico) 5/2
✔9. ODESSA CATACOMBS:
The Odessa Catacombs are a network of tunnels under Odessa, Ukraine and its surrounding region. The Catacombs are on three levels and reach 60 meters below sea level. The approximate topography of the Odessa underground labyrinth is unknown, and has never been fully mapped. As of 2012 there are more than 1,000 known entrances to the tunnels.
☀Read a book in which something "underground" takes place ("underground" is open to interpretation - can be physically underground, someone working underground or under cover, etc"), OR a book with a dark cover.
Harbinger - Pip Ballantine 4/25
✔10. AKSANIA-NOVA:
Aksania-Nova is a biosphere reserve consisting of a zoological park, a botanical garden, and an open territory of virgin steppes. It was established in 1898. In March 1919, Aksania-Nova was confiscated from the Falz-Fein family by the Red Army.
☀Read a book by an author whose first or last name begins with 'A', OR a book with an animal on the cover.
Chasing Payne - Chantel Seabrook 5/6
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Second Quarter Spell - Ukraine Spell Challenge Duration: April 1 - June 30, 2017
READ: 14/14
S: The Secret of the Nagas - Amish Tripathi 4/17
O: One Dog Night - David Rosenfelt 4/21
F: Fruitcake - R.J. Kaiser 5/4
I: One Fell Sweep - Ilona Andrews 4/1
Y: Murder Under a Mystic Moon - Yasmine Galenorn 4/12
I: The North Water - Ian McGuire 4/10
V: Spectacle - Rachel Vincent 6/14
S: The Striker - Monica McCarty 4/15
K: Dearly Depotted - Kate Collins 4/3
Y: You and I, Me and You - Mary Janice Davidson 4/13
P: Silence Fallen - Patricia Briggs 5/1
A: Hotwire - Alex Kava 4/29
R: Red Velvet Cupcake Murder - Joanne Fluke 5/9
K: Stuck In Shangri-La - Kasey Michaels 4/18
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
April Mini Challenge
READ: 11/11
✔1. April 3rd is National Find a Rainbow Day, I liked this quote about rainbows, “There are people that see rainbows as an artistic masterpiece in the sky, to others it is a sign of hope and to many a sign of promise. It can be all three; beauty, hope and promise” (Jill Magnus). April 4th is National School Librarian Day, April 11th is National Library Workers Day and April 12th National Bookmobile Day , I have fond memories of visiting libraries as a child. When taking my kids to the library it was always nice to be able to say yes to every book they wanted unlike when visiting the toy aisle at the store.
•Read a book where you can find the authors first and last initials in “ BEAUTY, HOPE, PROMISE” OR Read a book borrowed from the library.
Serpent's Kiss - Thea Harrison 4/22
✔2. April 10th is National Encourage a Young Writer Day, this day is about encouraging young authors April 13th is National Scrabble Day So this week, look for some vowels.
•Read a book published by an author who was 25 or younger at time of publishing OR Read a book with a title starting with a vowel.
One Fell Sweep - Ilona Andrews 4/1
✔3. April 17th is National Haiku Poetry Day and National Poem in Your Pocket Day and April 28th is National Great Poetry Reading Day with the spring in the air and new life blooming this month is a perfect time for poetry. April 23rd is National Picnic Day, enjoy the great outdoors.
•Read a book of poetry (for this task the 125 page limit requirement does not have to be observed) or Read a book with a relaxing outdoors cover (forest, garden, beach etc).
Coming Home - Mariah Stewart 4/17
✔4. April 23rd is also National Take a Chance Day, we all have our favorite genres but sometimes there are wonderful books waiting to be discovered in a different genre who knows you might ended up with a new favorite genre. April 27th is National Tell a Story Day, this day represents grandparents sharing stories about their lives with grandchildren.
•Read a book from a genre you usually don’t read from OR Read a book with a grandparent and grandchild.
The Conquest - Yxta Maya Murray 4/22
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
✔S: The Secret of the Nagas - Amish Tripathi 4/17
✔H: Dead Sexy - Tate Hallaway 4/8
✔O: Once Upon Stilettos - Shanna Swendson 4/9
✔W: When a Scot Ties the Knot - Tessa Dare 4/12
✔E: The House at Sea's End - Elly Griffiths 4/6
✔R: One Dog Night - David Rosenfelt 4/21
✔S: Stuck In Shangri-La - Kasey Michaels 4/18
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
April Word Search 19/20 FOUND
✔Accountant - One Fell Sweep - Ilona Andrews 4/1
(he would be an accountant or a lawyer), p143
✔Audition - Murder Under a Mystic Moon - Yasmine Galenorn 4/12
(audition for Jerry Springer's job), p175
✔Barbecue - Don't Look Now - Linda Lael Miller 4/2
(I knew him from barbecues at Harry Senior's), p127
✔Cul-de-sac - The Girl with All the Gifts - M.R. Carey 4/4
(maze of avenues, crescents and cul-de-sacs), p322
✔Donate - Dearly Depotted - Kate Collins 4/3
(people had actually donated money), p41
✔Fountain - Don't Look Now - Linda Lael Miller 4/2
(topiaries, statues and fountains), p262
✔Guilty - Dragon of the Island - Mary Gillgannon 4/1
(she could not help feeling guilty), p328
✔Jar - Don't Look Now - Linda Lael Miller 4/2
(the kind that come in a tall glass jar), p134
✔Limbo - The Girl with All the Gifts - M.R. Carey 4/4
(from dry-baked limbo to a field of massive thistles), p241
✔Neighbor - Don't Look Now - Linda Lael Miller 4/2
(donations from Mrs. Kravinsky, our neighbor), p3
✔Regret - Dragon of the Island - Mary Gillgannon 4/1
(Maelgym felt the sharp pain of regret), p267
✔Rescue - Dragon of the Island - Mary Gillgannon 4/1
(this time her father would not come to her rescue), p62
✔Rubbish - The Girl with All the Gifts - M.R. Carey 4/4
(he turns the rubbish off), p86
✔Suburb - The House at Sea's End - Elly Griffiths 4/6
(hurtling through the Norwich suburbs), p65
✔Tipsy - Dearly Depotted - Kate Collins 4/3
(I've never been so much as tipsy a day in my life), p66
Optional Words
Cabana -
(), p
✔GPS - The House at Sea's End - Elly Griffiths 4/6
(we can take some GPS readings), p4
✔Helicopter - The Girl with All the Gifts - M.R. Carey 4/4
(she was brought to the base by helicopter), p143
✔Psychologist - The Girl with All the Gifts - M.R. Carey 4/4
(I asked for a developmental psychologist to join the team), p55
✔Whisk - When a Scot Ties the Knot - Tessa Dare 4/12
(Logan finally managed to whisk his wife away), p372
Favorite Album - Century ChildDuration: May 1 - June 30, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. CENTURY CHILD:
Century Child is the fourth studio album by Finnish metal band, Nightwish.
♫Read a book in which two words in the title begin with the same first letter (Lemon Meringue Pie Murder, The Last Letter from Your Lover, etc), OR a book in which the number 4 is found in the total number of pages.
The Woman Who Wouldn't Die - Colin Cotterill 5/14
✔2. RELEASE DATE:
Century Child was released May 25, 2002.
♫Read a book published in May or a book published in 2002.
15th Affair - James Patterson (pub May 2016) 5/12
✔3. LENGTH:
The album is 57 minutes, 20 seconds long.
♫Read a book from your TBR between position #20 and #57, OR a book with a page length between 200-500 pages.
The Shadowy Horses - Susanna Kearsley (407 pages) 5/11
✔4. LABEL:
Century Child was released on the Finland Spinefarm label.
♫Read a book in which the author's first AND last initials can be found in SPINEFARM.
Going Organic Can Kill You - Staci McLaughlin 6/2
✔5. NIGHTWISH:
Nightwish is a symphonic metal band from Finland which was formed in 1996.
♫Read a book set in Finland, OR a book whose title begins with 'N'.
Never Look Back - Linda Lael Miller 5/30
✔6. COVER:
The cover for Century Child looks somewhat mystical, featuring a waterfall.
♫Read a book with a body of water or a woman on the cover, OR a book with a black, white or purple cover.
The Scent of Jasmine - Jude Devereau 6/11
✔7. PRODUCER:
Century Child was produced by Tuomas Holopainen, Tero Kinnunen and Nightwish.
♫Read a book with a main character whose first or last name begins with T, H, K or N.
The Wild Irish Sea - Loucinda McGary (Kevin Hennessey) 5/29
✔8. GENRE:
The album is classified as symphonic metal.
♫Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in SYMPHONICMETAL.
One Lucky Cowboy - Carolyn Brown 5/28
✔9. STUDIO:
Century Child was recorded at Caverock Studios in Kitee, Finland, as well as Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Finland.
♫Read a book whose title begins with 'C', OR a book whose author's first or last name begins with 'F'.
Changeling - Yasmine Galenorn 5/11
✔10. CHARTS:
The album reached #1 on the Finnish Album Charts in 2002.
♫Read the first book of a series, OR the first book on your TBR
The Madness of Mercury - Connie Di Marco 5/18
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
May Mini Challenge
READ: 11/11
✔May 3rd is National Paranormal Day a fun day to celebrate the paranormal for both believers and non-believers. May 5th is National Cartoonist Day. This day recognizes humor and artwork from all cartoonist.
• Read a book that is tagged “paranormal” or “humor” on GR homepage OR Read a book with illustrations.
Shadow's Seduction - Kresley Cole 5/18
✔May 13th is National Frog Jumping Day and it is all about measuring how far a frog can jump. It is time to jump back into a series you have not finished. May 7th is National Packaging Design Day a well-designed packaging can sell a product.
• Read the next book in a series you have not finished OR Read a book you picked based on the cover.
Dirty Magic - Jaye Wells (needed a book with test tubes on cover) 5/23
✔May 17th is National Pack Rat Day, it is a day to look at what you have and get rid of unneeded items. May 23rd is National Lucky Penny Day; a penny use to buy something but not so much anymore. In 1793, first US penny mint was made of copper.
• Read a book that has been on your TBR shelf for over 2 years OR Read a book with 7, 9, or 3 found in the publication year (you can use either the first published year or the year of the edition you are reading).
Seduced by the Storm - Sydney Croft (added 2009) 5/9
✔May 25th is National Brown-Bag-It-Day. Taking your lunch to work can be a cheaper and healthier option. May 30th is National Hole in My Bucket Day and it is to celebrate the children’s song There’s a Hole in My Bucket.
• Read a book with a type of food in the title or on the cover OR Read a book where the title starts with the letter “T”, “H”, “M” or “B”.
Fruitcake - R.J. Kaiser 5/4
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
✔F: Flora Segunda - Ysabeau S. Wilce 5/8
✔L: Never Look Back - Linda Lael Miller 5/30
✔O: Oracle's Moon - Thea Harrison 5/16
✔W: The Wild Irish Sea - Loucinda McGary 5/29
✔E: A Room Full of Bones - Elly Griffiths 5/4
✔R: Red Velvet Cupcake Murder - Joanne Fluke 5/9
✔S: The Shadowy Horses - Susanna Kearsley 5/11
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
May Word Search 20/20 FOUND
✔Bandit - The Woman Who Wouldn't Die - Colin Cotterill 5/14
(word had reached the bandit), p123
✔Bomb - White Heat - Jill Shalvis 5/2
(a bomb couldn't damage this heap), p 46
✔Compass - White Heat - Jill Shalvis 5/2
(he pulled out a compass), p 45
✔Dusty - White Heat - Jill Shalvis 5/2
(and almost overwhelmingly dusty), p 43
✔Explosion - Fruitcake - R.J. Kaiser 5/4
(this was like an explosion), p133
✔Factory - A Room Full of Bones - Elly Griffiths 5/4
(the factory itself fell into disrepair), p 7
✔Foreigner - The Woman Who Wouldn't Die - Colin Cotterill 5/14
(these were foreigners ill-suited to the hot climate), p31
✔Iron - Silence Fallen - Patricia Briggs 5/1
(if Bonsarata didn't have iron control of his vampires), p 127
✔Password - 15th Affair - James Patterson 5/12
(stared at the box that was requesting a password), p205
✔Pistol - Fruitcake - R.J. Kaiser 5/4
(Dakota let go of the pistol), p 175
✔Rebel - Full Scoop -Janet Evanovich 5/6
(it's normal for them to rebel now and then), p 202
✔Sands - A Room Full of Bones - Elly Griffiths 5/4
(on the shifting sands of the salt marsh), p 41
✔Thirsty - Full Scoop -Janet Evanovich 5/6
(I'll bet you boys are thirsty), p 132
✔Traitor - Seduced by the Storm - Sydney Croft 5/9
(Goddammit Kit, you traitor), p242
✔Weapon - Fruitcake - R.J. Kaiser 5/4
(unless he comes after me with an anti-tank weapon), p 265
Optional Words
✔Camel - Full Scoop -Janet Evanovich 5/6
(Helms sat on the camel-colored leather sofa), p 17
✔Ghoul - A Room Full of Bones - Elly Griffiths 5/4
(she sounds like a real ghoul), p 144
✔Gunpowder - A Room Full of Bones - Elly Griffiths 5/4
(smelling of gunpowder and the sea), p 133
✔Immortal - Oracle's Moon - Thea Harrison 5/16
(those deadly immortal power brokers), p23
✔Trigger - Fruitcake - R.J. Kaiser 5/4
(I'd love nothing better than to pull the trigger), p102
June Mini Challenge
READ: 12/12
✔June 1st is National Pen Pal day today is a great time to send a friend a letter. June 10th is National Ballpoint Pen Day this day celebrates the patent of the ballpoint pen on June 10, 1943.
• Read a book where a character writes or receives a letter, email, or text OR Read a book in which the first letter of each title word (all words count) can be found in "BALLPOINT PEN."
One Night in Scotland - Karen Hawkins 6/3
(each chapter starts with a snippet of a letter from heroine's brother)
✔June 13th is National Weed Your Garden Day; TBR lists grow like weeds. June 15th is National Smile Power Day. Smiling can make you feel better and someone else too so smile away today.
• Take a look at your TBR list and read a book that you don't remember why you add it to your list OR Read a book that makes you smile.
All That Bleeds - Kimberly Frost 6/15
✔June 18th is National Splurge Day, this day is about doing something nice for yourself without over spending. June 21st is National Selfie Day taking a selfie or group selfies is becoming increasingly popular.
• Read a book you borrowed from the library OR Read a book with either or a person on the cover or a group of people on the cover.
The Scent of Jasmine - Jude Devereau 6/11
✔June 23th is National Take Your Dog to Work Day and this day to help inspire people to adopt pets from shelters. June 27th is National Sunglasses Day is all about protecting your eyes from UV rays. One of my favorite things about summer is reading outside.
• Read a book with character who owns a dog OR Read at least 50% of a book outside.
Havoc - Jack DuBrul 6/8
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
✔S: Spectacle - Rachel Vincent 6/14
✔U: The Undomestic Goddess - Sophie Kinsella 6/3
✔N: Archangel's Heart - Nalini Singh 6/17
✔S: Less than a Treason - Dana Stabenow 6/8
✔H: Definitely Dead - Charlaine Harris 6/26
✔I: The Immortals - J.T. Ellison 6/19
✔N: Nevernight - Jay Kristoff 6/20
✔E: An English Bride In Scotland - Lynsay Sands 6/19
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
June Word Search 19/20 FOUND
Auction - One Night in Scotland - Karen Hawkins 6/3
(at the auction houses in London), p127
Bondage - Spectacle - Rachel Vincent 6/14
(the institution that had once held her in bondage), p21
Chains - The Order of Odd-Fish - James Kennedy 6/5
(lashed together with chains), p53
Engineer - Getting Lucky - Carolyn Brown 6/4
(had been sleeping with the female engineer), p17
Liberty - Spectacle - Rachel Vincent 6/14
(Lala lived for every minor liberty), p28
Master - The Valcourt Heiress - Catherine Coulter 6/18
(he would not tell me his name or that of his master), p13
Nook - Snipped in the Bud - Kate Collins 6/5
(then I remembered the little coffee nook), p209
North - Getting Lucky - Carolyn Brown 6/4
(parked on the North side of the house), p8
Property - Going Organic Can Kill You - Staci McLaughlin 6/2
(follow the trail back through the farm property), p76
Railroad - Havoc - Jack DuBrul 6/8
(a single road that leads to it as well as a railroad), p211
Reward - The Order of Odd-Fish - James Kennedy 6/5
(at long last, reward), p66
Slave - Going Organic Can Kill You - Staci McLaughlin 6/2
(Maxwell was a slave driver), p85
Stray - Archangel's Heart - Nalini Singh 6/17
(a stray beam of light), p272
Tunnel - Getting Lucky - Carolyn Brown 6/4
(a light at the end of the tunnel), p125
Underground - The Undomestic Goddess - Sophie Kinsella 6/3
(the leaves of something growing underground), p137
Optional Words
Almanac -
(), p
Dormitory - The Order of Odd-Fish - James Kennedy 6/5
(a dingy dormitory in an unfashionable neighborhood), p223
Hatchet - Bad Monkey - Carl Hiaasen 6/30
(the hatchet he wiped down), p150
Plantation - The Scent of Jasmine - Jude Devereau 6/11
(he looked like a rich plantation owner), p89
Swamp - The Order of Odd-Fish - James Kennedy 6/5
(the swamp neighborhood at the bottom of the mountain), p171
Third Quarter Scavenger - Historical Landmarks of Massachusetts
Duration: July 1 - September 30, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔ 1. HOUSE OF SEVEN GABLES:
The House of Seven Gables is a colonial mansion built in 1667. It was made famous by American author Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The House of Seven Gables.
☀Read a book with a number in the title, or a book with a house, cottage, or mansion shown on the cover.
Evil Harvest - Anthony Izzo 9/23
✔ 2. BOSTON WOMEN'S MEMORIAL:
This beautiful memorial is a trio of sculptures on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall. It commemorates the lives of Phillis Wheatley, Abigail Adams and Lucy Stone.
☀Read a book by a female author, or a book with a woman shown on the cover.
No Strings Attached - Kate Angell 7/31
✔3. VETERANS WAR MEMORIAL, MOUNT GREYLOCK:
Located on the highest point in Massachusetts, this memorial was built in 1931-1932 at a cost of $200,000.
☀Read the book that has been on your TBR the longest, or a book that has the number 1, 9, 3 or 2 found in its total number of pages.
Heir to the Sky - Amanda Sun (293 pages) 7/29
✔4. OLD STATE HOUSE:
Built in 1713, this is where the Declaration of Independence was first read publically in 1776. The Boston Massacre occurred just below the east balcony in 1770.
☀Read a book in which a tragic incident is part of the story, or a book whose title begins with 'O'.
The Oath of the Vayuputras - Amish Tripathi (m.c.'s wife is killed) 8/22
✔5. THE MOUNT, LENOX:
American author Edit Wharton's beautiful country house located in Lenox was built in 1902 and was considered her first real home. Wharton designed the home and gardens. It was inspired by the 17th century Belton House located in England.
☀Read a book with a character who writes, or a book set in England.
The Darkly Luminous Fight for Persephone Parker - Leanna Renee Hieber (London) 7/20
✔ 6. OLD SOUTH MEETING HALL:
This historic church was built in 1729 and is famous for being the meeting place for discussions leading to the Boston Tea Party of 1773.
☀Read a book in which the words "tea" AND "church" are found in the text, or a book in which some type of meeting takes place.
Cancans, Croissants, and Caskets - Mary McHugh 8/7
TEA: perhaps we could meet for tea, p134
CHURCH: tourists in the plaza outside the church, p85
✔7. BRANDT POINT LIGHTHOUSE:
Located on Nantucket Island, this beautiful lighthouse was constructed in 1746 and is still fully operational.
☀Read a book with a source of light found on the cover, or a book with the word "Light" or "House" found in the book title or series name.
The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafón (street lamp) 8/18
✔8. THE FREEDOM TRAIL:
This red brick line of 2.5 miles leads through downtown Boston and includes 16 locations significant to the history of the United States.
☀Read a book with a red cover, or a book rated 2.5 or less here on Goodreads.
Warm Bodies - Isaac Marion 7/14
✔9. USS CONSTITUTION:
One of six frigates commissioned by President George Washington for the United States' first navy, it is named after the Constitution of the United States of America. It is the world's oldest commissioned vessel afloat.
☀Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in USSCONSTITUTION, or a book with some type of boat shown on the cover.
Slipknot - Linda Greenlaw 7/13
✔10. FENWAY PARK:
This renowned baseball stadium is the oldest in Major League Baseball. It first opened on April 20, 1912.
☀Read a book originally published prior to 1912 or one published in April (any year), or a book in which the main character is involved in sports.
Straight from the Heart - Tami Hoag (professional baseball player) 8/5
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Third Quarter Spell - MassachusettsDuration: July 1 - September 30, 2017
READ: 15/15
The Freedom Trail
T: Hidden Embers - Tessa Adams 8/8
H: The Harder You Fall - Gena Showalter 8/31
E: Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
F: Forbidden Embers - Tessa Adams 9/11
R: Out of the Mist - JoAnn Ross 9/13
E: Judas Kiss - J.T. Ellison 7/28
E: The Empire's Ghost - Isabelle Steiger 7/22
D: Death by the Dozen - Jenn McKinlay 8/27
O: Our Husband - Stephanie Bond 7/19
M: Cowboy Town - Kasey Millstead 8/25
T: Straight from the Heart - Tami Hoag 8/5
R: Out of the Easy - Ruta Sepetys 9/16
A: The Man Who Spoke Snakish - Andrus Kivirähk 7/17
I: A Catered St. Patrick's Day - Isis Crawford 7/14
L: Lick - Kylie Scott 8/10
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Favorite Album - Born in the U.S.A.Duration: July 1 - August 30, 2017
READ: 9/10
✔1. BORN IN THE U.S.A. :
Born in the USA is the seventh studio album by American rock singer-songwriter Bruce Springsteen.
♫Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in BORNINTHEUSA.
No Strings Attached - Kate Angell 7/31
✔2. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN:
Nicknamed "The Boss", Springsteen was born September 23, 1949 in Long Branch, New Jersey.
♫Read a book set in New Jersey, or a book in which the main character is a business owner.
Gingerbread Cookie Murder - Joann Fluke (owns a cookie shop) 7/6
✔3. COVER:
The cover for Born in the U.S.A. shows Springsteen's backside against the backdrop of an American flag.
♫Read a book with one of the following items shown on the cover: blue jeans, American flag, cap, or white shirt.
Dark Roots and Cowboy Boots - Luann McLane 7/13
✔4. LENGTH:
The album is 46 minutes, 57 seconds in length.
♫Read a book between #46 and #57 from on your TBR.
✔5. RELEASE DATE:
Born in the U.S.A. was released on June 4, 1984.
♫Read a book published in 1984, or a book published in June (any year).
Bengal's Quest - Lora Leigh (pub June 2015) 8/17
✔6. PRODUCERS:
Producers for the album were Jon Landau and Chuck Plotkin.
♫Read a book with a character named Jon or Chuck (any variation or spelling will work), or a book whose title ENDS with 'N', 'U', or 'K'.
Judas Kiss - J.T. Ellison (John Baldwin) 7/28
✔7. STUDIO:
Born in the U.S.A. was recorded in The Power Station and The Hit Factory.
♫Read a book with the word "the" in the title, or a book with the letters 't', 'h' and 'e' found in the author's name (first and last can be used).
The Empire's Ghost - Isabelle Steiger 7/22
✔8. ROLLING STONE:
In 2003, Rolling Stone listed the album at number 85 on its list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.
♫Read book #8 or #5 in a series, or a book that has won and award.
Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
( Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award (RT Award) for Best Urban Fantasy Novel (2011))
✔9. LABEL:
The album was released on the Columbia label.
♫Read a book set in a place that begins with 'C' or ends with 'A'.
White Fire - Douglas Preston (Colorado) 7/29
10. RECORDED:
Born in the U.S.A. was recorded between January 1982 and March 1984.
♫Read a book published between January 1982 and March 1984.
July Mini Challenge
READ: 7/7
✔July is starting off with a sweet start. July 5th is National Apple Turnover Day; this dessert is also called a hand pie because it is easy to carry unlike a slice of apple pie. July 7th is National Strawberry Sundae Day and strawberry sundaes are a perfect summer treat.
• Read an ebook OR Read a book with a dessert or fruit found on the cover.
No Strings Attached - Kate Angell 7/31
✔July 14th is National Tape Measure Day tape measures date back to the Roman's using strips of leather to bulk metal designs. Now, a tape measure can fit in your hand and easily measure 300+ feet. July 15th is National I love Horses Day which is a day to enjoy horses whether going for a ride, or reading about them in a book.
• Read a book over 300 pages OR Read a book with the word "horse" found in the text.
White Fire - Douglas Preston (470 pages) 7/29
✔July 16th is National Personal Chef Day. This day recognizes the hard work of personal chefs who cater to a variety of clients from households, seniors, and parties. July 20th, National Lollipop Day celebrates the delicious candy which were named for George Smiths favorite racing horse Lolly Pops.
• Read a book that starts with the letter "C", "H", "E" or "F" OR Read a book from your favorite author.
Fatal Fixer-Upper - Jennie Bentley 7/17
✔July 25th is National Thread The Needle Day. Threading the needle has multiple meanings, from basic sewing, political talk, to billiards, yoga and sports in general where a ball is used. The last Friday of July, July 28th, is National Talk In An Elevator Day this is to encourage people to taking a break from their phones and talk with one another.
• Read a book with multiple points of view OR Read a book with a verb in the title.
The Empire's Ghost - Isabelle Steiger 7/22
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
✔H: White Colander Crime - Victoria Hamilton 7/15
✔O: Our Husband - Stephanie Bond 7/19
✔T: Lord's Fall - Thea Harrison 7/4
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
July Word Search 18/20 FOUND
Bang - No Man's Land - David Baldacci 7/9
(the only thing missing was the earsplitting bang), p246
Dignity - Fatal Fixer-Upper - Jennie Bentley 7/17
(with all the dignity I could muster), p52
Evacuation - Lord's Fall - Thea Harrison 7/4
(preparing for immediate evacuation), p49
Forest - Lord's Fall - Thea Harrison 7/4
(Eva could wipe the forest floor with her), p11
Harbor - Lost Gods - Brom 7/1
(feel a need to harbor them), p227
Military - Lost Gods - Brom 7/1
(his brief stint in the military), p224
Nurse - Prime Cut - Diane Mott Davidson 7/4
(making small talk with my wife's nurse), p18
Passenger - Our Husband - Stephanie Bond 7/19
(relegated to the comfy bucket passenger seat), p212
Port - Slipknot - Linda Greenlaw 7/13
(tangled with in every major port), p9
Restoration - Fatal Fixer-Upper - Jennie Bentley 7/17
(runs a local renovation and restoration company), p41
Sailor - No Man's Land - David Baldacci 7/9
(a sailor can't ask for more than that), p149
Salt - Lost Gods - Brom 7/1
(just not worth a pinch of salt when it comes to conversation), p30
Terror - Lost Gods - Brom 7/1
(saw their terror and felt it), p138
Vessel - Lost Gods - Brom 7/1
(your mother should have been her next vessel), p133
Voyage - Fatal Fixer-Upper - Jennie Bentley 7/17
(arrived on that fateful voyage), p243
Optional Words
Frostbite - No Strings Attached - Kate Angell 7/31
(the very day he left Frostbite, Minnesota), p17
Lifeboat -
(), p
Refugee - Lost Gods - Brom 7/1
(I was in a refugee camp in Hungary), p32
Torpedo -
(), p
Watchman - The Man Who Spoke Snakish - Andrus Kivirähk 7/17
(that is done only by the watchmen), p46
August Mini Challenge
READ: 9/9
✔August 2nd is National Coloring Book Day, feel free to pull out some coloring books while you listen to an audio book. National Sisters Day falls on August 6th this year. It is a great day to appreciate the friendship that comes with having a sister.
• Read a book with an illustrator or a character who is an artist OR Read a book with sisters.
How to Tame a Beast in Seven Days - Kerrelyn Sparks 8/28
(mc has a twin and has 4 adopted sisters)
✔August 7th is National Lighthouse Day. Lighthouses line the coasts and symbolize safety and security for ships and boats. August 9th is National Book Lovers Day so read a book today!
• Read a book with with a source of light on the cover OR Read a book on August 9th (as long as you read some of the book on the 9th it counts).
The Battle Sylph - L.J. McDonald 8/9
✔August 19th is National Aviation Day. National Aviation Day was a presidential proclamation holiday established by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1939. In honor of Orville Wright who was born on August 19, 1871. National Ride The Wind Day is recognized on August 23rd. This day celebrates first human-powered flight to win the Kremer prize.
• Read a book where you can find the authors first and last initials in "ORVILLE WRIGHT" OR Read a book with an object or creature that can fly on the cover (ex: kite, plane, butterfly or dragon).
- Tami Hoag 8/5Straight from the Heart
✔This week is all about cherries! August 26th is National Cherry Popsicle Day. Today is the perfect day to enjoy a cool treat while reading. August 28th is National Cherry Turnovers Day. Feel free to try this flaky treat too.
• Read a book with a red cover, red title or the author's names printed in red OR Read a book with the word 'cherry' found in the text.
The Girl with Ghost Eyes - M.H. Boroson 8/18
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
Using the first letter of a book title or the first letter of the authors first or last name, spell out a August item. A list of August items is provided below. You may choose from the list, or use a word of your own that represents August to you.
✔H: Hidden Embers - Tessa Adams 8/8
✔I: Bound By Darkness - Alexandra Ivy 8/11
✔K: Lick - Kylie Scott 8/10
✔E: Eternal Hunger - Cameron Dean 8/3
✔S: Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
August Word Search 18/20 FOUND
✔1. Box - Straight from the Heart - Tami Hoag 8/5
(the Pandora's box he'd opened up inside her), p118
✔2. Chasm - The Battle Sylph - L.J. McDonald 8/9
(a chasm two feet deep tore down the center), p70
✔3. Corridor - A Dying Fall - Elly Griffiths 8/6
(the corridors seemed endless), p146
✔4. Darkness - Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
(leaned over in the darkness of the car), p179
✔5. Debris - The Passage - Justin Cronin 8/8
(the dim interiors clogged with debris), p344
✔6. Disoriented - Blue Labyrinth - Douglas Preston 8/14
(for the moment, he was disoriented), p107
✔7. Echo - Bound By Darkness - Alexandra Ivy 8/11
(the hushed echo of footsteps), p308
✔8. Elaborate - Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
(glinted in elaborate patterns on the ceiling), p6
✔9. Freckles - Straight from the Heart - Tami Hoag 8/5
(a smattering of rusty freckles dotted his cheeks), p58
✔10. Interstate - Blue Labyrinth - Douglas Preston 8/14
(approached the town from interstate 10), p149
✔11. Junkie - Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
(elemental junkies strung out on their own magic), p37
✔12. Mystery - Between the Duke and the Deep Blue Sea - Sophia Nash 8/5
(Verity's guilty expression added to the mystery), p167
✔13. Reality - Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
(snapped back to reality), p228
✔14. Skyline - The Battle Sylph - L.J. McDonald 8/9
(on the skyline he could finally see a ship floating towards them), p3
✔15. Void - Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
(sort of a black, emotionless void), p290
OPTIONAL WORDS:
16. Brainwash -
(), p
17. Equations -
(), p
✔18. Professor - Straight from the Heart - Tami Hoag 8/5
(with a retired computer-science professor), p77
✔19. Rabbit hole - Spider’s Revenge - Jennifer Estep 8/3
(I wasn't going back down the rabbit hole), p331
✔20. Scenario - So Close the Hand of Death - J.T. Ellison 8/29
(the whole scenario flooded her brain), p41
February Leftovers
Flowerbed - A Dying Fall - Elly Griffiths 8/6
(walk past brilliantly clashing flowerbeds), p131
Ipad - Cancans, Croissants, and Caskets - Mary McHugh 8/7
(with her ipad in hand), p43
April Leftovers
Cabana - Blue Labyrinth - Douglas Preston 8/14
(overlooking the swimming pool and cocktail cabana), p113
June Leftovers
Almanac - The Girl with Ghost Eyes - M.H. Boroson 8/18
(I consulted the almanac this morning), p6
July Leftovers
Lifeboat - A Dying Fall - Elly Griffiths 8/6
(and the lifeboat museum), p91
Favorite Album - Back in the High LifeDuration: September 1 - October 31, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. Steve Winwood:
Steve Winwood is an English musician.
♫Read a book in which the author's first and last initial can be found in STEVEWINWOOD.
The Persian Always Meows Twice - Eileen Watkins 10/26
✔2. Back in the High Life:
Back in the High Life is the fourth solo studio album by Steve Winwood. It was released on June 30, 1986.
♫Read a book published in 1986 or a book published in June (any year).
And I Darken - Kiersten White (June 2016) 10/30
✔3. Length:
The album is 45 minutes, 3 seconds long.
♫Read a book from your TBR in a position between #3 and #45.
Bite My Fire - Mary Hughes (#3) 10/14
✔4. Producers:
Producers for Back in the High Life were Russ Titelman and Steve Winwood.
♫Read a book in which the author's first and last initial can be found in RUSSTITELMAN.
The Wrong Hostage - Elizabeth Lowell 10/12
✔5. Label:
Back in the High Life was released in the Island label.
♫Read a book in which the word "island" can be found in the text of the book. Please provide page or location info.
Ukulele Murder - Leslie Langtry 10/23
p26 "...it's all over the island..."
✔6. Recorded:
The album was recorded between the autumn of 1985 and the spring of 1986.
♫Read a book set in the spring time or autumn time, or a book whose title begins with "A" or "S".
And I Darken - Kiersten White 10/30
✔7. Studio:
The album was recorded in several studios in New York City as well as a Netherturkdonic Studio in the UK.
♫Read a book set in New York City, or a book whose title begins with "N" or ends with "C".
The End Game - Catherine Coulter 9/14
8. Genre:
This album's listed genres include Rock, Blue-Eyed Soul and Pop.
♫Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in ROCKBLUEEYEDSOULPOP. No word count limit, but all words count (a, an, the, etc).
✔9. Grammy:
Back in the High Life won the 1987 Grammy Award for Best Engineered Non-Classical Album.
♫Read a book that has won an award or has been nominated for an award.
Star of the Sea - Joseph O'Connor 10/17
Won award: Prix Millepages Award for Foreign Fiction (2003)
✔10. Personnel:
Some well known personnel contributing their work to this album were: Joe Walsh (guitar, slide guitar), Chaka Khan (background vocals), and James Taylor (background vocals).
♫Read a book with a main character whose first or last name begins with "J", "W", "C", "K" or "T".
Midnight's Captive - Donna Grant (Charon Bruce) 10/12
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
September Mini Challenge
READ: 8/9
✔National Blueberry Popsicle Day is observed annually on September 2nd. This tasty treat may be called blue but it looks purple. National Read A Book Day is on September 6th. This day is about reading a book you will probably like!
• Read a book with a blue or purple cover OR Read a book that is tagged with your favorite genre on GR homepage.
Deadmen Walking - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/4
✔For many people, August and September represent the start of school. This year, September 2nd is National College Colors Day. The first, National Online Learning Day is September 15th. This new national day recognizes the potential of online learning.
• Read a book where a school is one of the settings in the book OR Read a book with the word 'computer' found in the text.
The End Game - Catherine Coulter 9/14
(he was seven years old, and even more, was a computer genius), p45
Hobbit Day is observed annually on September 22 since it is Frodo and Bilbo Baggins birthday. National One-Hit Wonder Day is September 25. Sometimes an artist just has one great hit.
• Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in "FRODO, BIBLO BAGGINS" ( you can count or ignore A, An, or The) OR Read a book with a number in the title.
✔National Good Neighbor Day falls on September 28th. Good neighbors make life easier. September 29th is National Coffee Day Books and coffee go together great!
• Read a book where friendship is an important part of the story-line OR Read a book with a brown cover, brown title or the author's names printed in brown.
Pirates! - Celia Rees 9/21
*********************
SPELL OUT:
✔B: Blue Hollow Falls - Donna Kauffman 9/14
✔O: Out of the Easy - Ruta Sepetys 9/16
✔O: Out of the Mist - JoAnn Ross 9/13
✔K: Dragonsworn - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/9
✔S: Spellbent - Lucy Snyder 9/5
September Scavenger Search 20/20 FOUND
✔1. Air - Afterlight - Elle Jasper 9/6
(there was something in the air between us), p160
✔2. Account - Out of the Easy - Ruta Sepetys 9/16
(a bloated bank account improved a man's features), p170
✔3. Book - Out of the Easy - Ruta Sepetys 9/16
(clutching my book under my arm), p8
✔4. Breath - Blue Hollow Falls - Donna Kauffman 9/14
(let that last breath ease from her body), p147
✔5. Child - Out of the Mist - JoAnn Ross 9/13
(they did give me nightmares when I was a child), p297
✔6. Ferocious - Deadmen Walking - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/4
(he glared at the ferocious beasts), p148
✔7. Fog - Deadmen Walking - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/4
(parting from the fog on the docks), p 41
✔8. Goodbye - Spellbent - Lucy Snyder 9/5
(I said good-bye and turned off the phone), p9
✔9. Isolated - Out of the Mist - JoAnn Ross 9/13
(because we're isolated), p292
✔10. Journey - Deadmen Walking - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/4
(taking his crew with him for the journey down), p12
✔11. Joy - Deadmen Walking - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/4
(you live to suck all the joy out of me death), p27
✔12. Resident - Afterlight - Elle Jasper 9/6
(he serves as the panic room's resident doorman), p178
✔13. Surgery - Spellbent - Lucy Snyder 9/5
(and some corrective surgery), p106
✔14. Vacation - Blue Hollow Falls - Donna Kauffman 9/14
(that's my vacation time), p152
✔15. Writer - Out of the Easy - Ruta Sepetys 9/16
(he's not the writer his father is), p150
BONUS
✔16. Literature - By a Thread - Jennifer Estep 9/11
(I was reading for a summer literature class), p35
✔17. Mortality - Happy Hour at Casa Dracula - Marta Acosta 9/18
(and the mortality rate?), p64
✔18. Plateau - Dragonsworn - Sherrilyn Kenyon 9/9
(it's the plateau where the elders meet), p60
✔19. Stamina - Out of the Mist - JoAnn Ross 9/13
(stamina is important for a piper), p311
✔20. X-ray - Shoots to Kill - Kate Collins 9/7
(got home from her evening hospital shift in x-ray), p101
March Leftovers
✔Grand Opening - Shoots to Kill - Kate Collins 9/7
(you'll come to our grand opening), p52
July Leftovers
✔Torpedo - Evil Harvest - Anthony Izzo 9/23
(as if the car were a torpedo), p32
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Fourth Quarter Scavenger - Historical Landmarks of Slovenia
Duration: October 1 - December 31, 2017
READ: 9/10
✔ 1. Ljubljana Old Town:
Ljubljana is the largest city as well as the capital of Slovenia. It's charming Old Town is one of Slovenia's top tourist destinations.
☀Read a book that you would take on vacation, or a book with a character you consider charming.
Dorothy Must Die - Danielle Paige 10/19
✔ 2. Bled Castle:
Bled Castle is the oldest castle in Slovenia. It was first mentioned in May, 1011 in a deed of donation issued by Emperor Henry II.
☀Read an old book (published prior to 1900), or read the book that has been on your TBR for the longest period of time.
Blood Pact - Tanya Huff (added in 2009) 12/14
✔ 3. Lipica Stud Farm:
Dating back to 1580, the Lipica Stud Farm is home to the famous and elegant Lipizzaner horses.
☀Read a book in which a horse (or horses) is mentioned, or a book whose title contains the letter "Z".
The Zig Zag Girl - Elly Griffiths 12/25
✔ 4. Velika Planina:
Velika Planina is a high-elevation Alpine settlement of 63 traditional herdsmen's huts. It is located in hte Kamuik-Savinja Alps in northern Slovenia.
☀Read a book in which the author's first and last initials can be found in VELIKAPLANINA, or a book with a house shown on the cover.
Malevolent - Jana DeLeon 12/16
5. Predjama Castle:
A beautiful renaissance castle built in the mouth of a cave, it was constructed in the Gothic style in the 13th century.
☀Read a book set in the Renaissance period, or a book tagged as Gothic, or a book with the word "Cave" or "Castle" in the title.
✔ 6. Kamst Waterwheel:
The Kamst Waterwheel is the largest preserved wooden waterwheel in Europe. It operated uninterrupted for 158 years.
☀Read a book whose page count contains the number 1, 5 or 8, or a book with a body of water shown on the cover.
Ukulele Murder - Leslie Langtry 10/23
✔ 7. Olimje Monastery:
The Olimje Monastery is a stunning historic castle that was converted into a monastery. It houses the third oldest pharmacy in Europe and still produces medicines via natural resources today.
☀Read a book tagged as medical, or a book that mentions a monastery, or a book with a person in the medical field as a main character.
How to Seduce a Vampire - Kerrelyn Sparks 12/14
✔ 8. Franja Partisan Hospital:
A clandestine hospital complex set up during World War II, it had a capacity for 120 patients, and was never discovered by enemy forces.
☀Read a book set during World War II, or a book in which a hospital scene takes place.
Forgive Me - Daniel Palmer 11/13
✔ 9. Skocjan Caves:
Some of the most magnificent caves in the world with one of the world's largest known underground river canyons, the Skojan Caves have been on UNESCO's list of natural world heritage sites since 1986.
☀Read a large book (400+ pages), or a book published in 1986, or a book with a rock or rock formation shown on the cover.
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet - Becky Chambers (512 pages) 11/25
✔ 10. Ptuj:
Ptuj is the oldest recorded city in Slovenia. It has been inhabited since the late Stone Age, and was developed from a Roman military fort.
☀Read a book with a four letter title, or a book whose title begins with "P" or ends with "J", or a book tagged as military.
Pig Island - Mo Hayder 11/12
Fourth Quarter Spell - Historical Landmarks of Slovenia Duration: October 1 - December 31, 2017
READ: 16/16
Ljubljana Old Town
L: Lady of Devices - Shelley Adina 11/23
J: Widow’s Web - Jennifer Estep 11/30
U: Ukulele Murder - Leslie Langtry 10/23
B: Bite My Fire - Mary Hughes 10/14
L: The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster - Scott Wilbanks 11/29
J: Mind Game - Iris Johansen 12/11
A: Hide Your Heart - Tracey Alvarez 12/27
N: Not What You Seem - Lena Maye 12/21
A: Death on Paradise Island - B.M. Allsopp 12/19
O: The Obsidian Chamber - Douglas Preston 11/5
L: Death Echo - Elizabeth Lowell 11/25
D: The Dragon Caller - Pauline M. Ross 12/23
T: Terrier - Tamora Pierce 12/23
O: Origin Phase - RTW Lipkin 12/17
W: The Wood Queen - Karen Mahoney 10/4
N: No Rest for the Dead - Andrew Gulli 11/20
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
October Mini Challenge
READ: 8/8
✔National Name Your Car Day is on October 2nd. Does your car have a name? National Mad Hatter Day falls on October 6th. This day is based on The Hatter from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland & Through the Looking-Glass/Lewis Carroll. The Hatter is a silly character but it is based on the scary effects of mercury nitrate in hats.
• Read a book with a car or hat on the cover OR Read a book that is tagged humor or horror on GR homepage .
Metro Girl - Janet Evanovich 10/3
✔American Touch Tag Day is observed annually on October 8. This is a fun game children love to play. National Savings Day is on October 12th. This day looks at the value of savings.
• Read a book with a child or children on the cover OR Read a book that has been on your TBR shelf for over a year.
Highland Avenger - Hannah Howell (added 2012) 10/9
✔National Color Day is observed annually on October 22. What it your favorite color? October 19th is the Get to Know Your Customers Day. It is helpful in business to know your customers.
• Read a book with a color in the title OR Read a book with a character who works in customer service (this can be the main or a secondary character).
White Trash Zombie Unchained - Diana Rowland 10/7
✔National Frankenstein Friday will be on October 27th this year. Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a classic horror book. National Cat Day is takes place each year on October 29th. Cats are wonderful companions.
• Read a book where you can find the authors first and last initials in 'FRANKENSTEIN FRIDAY' OR Read a book with character who owns a cat.
The Persian Always Meows Twice - Eileen Watkins (mc has 3 cats) 10/26
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
Using the first letter of a book title or the first letter of the authors first or last name, spell out a October item. A list of October items is provided below. You may choose from the list, or use a word of your own that represents October to you.
✔F: Foul Play - Janet Evanovich 10/21
✔A: Brother - Ania Ahlborn 10/28
✔L: The Wrong Hostage - Elizabeth Lowell 10/12
✔L: Ukulele Murder - Leslie Langtry 10/23
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
October Scavenger Search 17/20 FOUND
1. Balcony - Midnight's Captive - Donna Grant 10/12
(after her touch on the balcony), p23
2. Cabin - Midnight's Captive - Donna Grant 10/12
(the cabin is another three miles), p101
3. Chandelier -
(), p
4. Chill - White Trash Zombie Unchained - Diana Rowland 10/7
(the chill of your ice-cold heart), p22
5. Corridor - Golden Age and Other Stories - Naomi Novik 10/9
(followed her into the corridor), p97
6. Cradle - Highland Avenger - Hannah Howell 10/9
(his children were settled inside the huge cradle), p342
7. Darkness - Midnight's Captive - Donna Grant 10/12
(during the brief darkness of their summer nights), p143
8. Digging - Ho-Ho-Homicide - Kaitlyn Dunnett 10/5
(digging, you mean), p220
9. Mascara - The Wood Queen - Karen Mahoney 10/4
(he might as well be wearing mascara), p68
10. Mist - The Wood Queen - Karen Mahoney 10/4
(watched the white mist slowly drift away), p222
11. Passport - The Wrong Hostage - Elizabeth Lowell 10/12
(she handed him her passport), p8
12. Puzzle - Highland Avenger - Hannah Howell 10/9
(too wretchedly sick to puzzle it all out), p18
13. Shudder - The Wrong Hostage - Elizabeth Lowell 10/12
(Franklin shuddered), p366
14. Spa -
(), p
15. Suite - The Wrong Hostage - Elizabeth Lowell 10/12
(it was only a few steps to Steel'es suite), p41
OPTIONAL WORDS:
16. Aromatherapy -
(), p
17. Bunk - Star of the Sea - Joseph O'Connor 10/17
(from the captain's own bunk), p6
18. Rendezvous - The Wrong Hostage - Elizabeth Lowell 10/12
(we need to make some plans for the rendezvous), p180
19. Veranda - Godsgrave - Jay Kristoff 10/24
(the Executus limped to the veranda), p83
20. Voyage - Star of the Sea - Joseph O'Connor 10/17
(since the start of the voyage), p5
Favorite Album - Hotel CaliforniaDuration: November 1 - December 31, 2017
READ: 9/10
✔1. Hotel California:
This is the fifth studio album released by American Rock band the Eagles.
♫Read a book with the word "hotel" or "California" found in the text.
Of Grave Concern - Max McCoy 12/4
(if you can't afford a hotel), p183
✔2. Eagles:
This American Rock band was formed in Los Angeles in 1971.
♫Read a book set in California.
The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster - Scott Wilbanks 11/29
✔3. Released:
Hotel California was released on December 8, 1976.
♫Read a book published in December (any year) or one published in 1976.
Her Own Devices - Shelly Adina (Dec 2011) 12/7
✔4. Producer:
Bill Szymczyk produced Hotel California.
♫Read a book by an author whose first or last name contains the letter "z".
The Naked Duke - Sally MacKenzie 12/16
✔5. Length:
The album is 43 minutes, 28 seconds in length.
♫Read a book from your TBR that is between position #28 and #43.
In Stone's Clasp - Christie Golden (#36) 11/6
6. Recorded:
Hotel California was recorded between March and October of 1976.
♫Read a book set in March or October, or a book with the word "March" or "October" in the title.
✔7. Label:
The album was released on the Asylum label.
♫Read a book whose title begins with "A".
Almost Like Being in Love - Christina Dodd 12/31
✔8. Studio:
It was recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami, FL and Record Plant Studios in Los Angeles, CA.
♫Read a book in which the first letter of each title word can be found in CRITERIASTUDIOS or in RECORDPLANT. Please use on or the other...not both.
Secrets in Death - J.D. Robb 11/3
✔9. Genre:
Hotel California is of the Rock genre.
♫Read a book whose title begins with "R" or ends with "K".
Body Check - Deirdre Martin 11/20
✔10. Billboard:
Hotel California first entered the US Billboard 200 at #4, reaching #1 in its fourth week in January 1977.
♫Read a series book #4 or #1, or a book with the number 4 or number 1 found in the total number of pages.
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet - Becky Chambers (Wayfarer #1) 11/25
November Mini Challenge
READ: 9/9
✔National Authors Day is on November 1st. Writing can be a lonely occupation. This national day was created to encourage readers to support their favorite authors. National Family Literacy Day is also on the 1st. This encourages all families members to read.
• A book that you gave 4 or 5 star rating OR Read a book that you borrowed from the library.
Secrets in Death - J.D. Robb 11/3
✔The 13th is World Kindness Day. This day reminds us that kindness is contagious. National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day is on the 15th. Just like you have to clean out your fridge sometimes you need to go through your TBR shelf.
• Read a book where the main character is kind OR Read a book that you add to your TBR shelf in 2017.
Forgive Me - Daniel Palmer (added Oct 23, 2017) 11/13
✔National Fast Food Day is on the 16th. Fast food became popular in the 1950s due to the low cost and fast service. National Take a Hike Day is observed on the 17th. After all the fast food, it is time to get out and walk. Across the United States there are over 60,000 miles of trails.
• Read a book that was a fast read. OR Read a book set in the United States.
Strong, Sleek and Sinful - Lorie O'Clare (Kansas) 11/4
✔The 24th is National Day of Listening This day is about listening to family stories. National Mason Jar Day is on the 30th. Mason jars have many uses from preserving food to decorations.
• Read a book that takes place in two or more time periods OR Read a book that starts with the letter "M", "A", "S" "O" or "N."
A Tale of Two Vampires - Katie MacAlister (1703 and 2012) 11/16
--------------------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
Using the first letter of a book title or the first letter of the authors first or last name, spell out a November item. A list of November items is provided below. You may choose from the list, or use a word of your own that represents November to you.
✔F: The Dragons Want Her - Angela Foxxe 11/9
✔E: The Ghost Fields - Elly Griffiths 11/28
✔A: Darkness Avenged - Alexandra Ivy 11/9
✔S: The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster - Scott Wilbanks 11/29
✔T: Kinked - Thea Harrison 11/13
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
November Word Search 19/20 FOUND + 4 leftovers
✔1. Accent - The Dragons Want Her - Angela Foxxe 11/9
(with a trace of an accent), loc9740
✔2. Child - Darkness Avenged - Alexandra Ivy 11/9
(I have never mistaken you for a child), p417
✔3. Coffee - Pig Island - Mo Hayder 11/12
(Blake put down his coffee), p74
✔4. Cologne - Dolled Up to Die - Lorena McCourtney 11/6
(he dragged out a bottle of cologne), p279
✔5. Cot - Darkness Avenged - Alexandra Ivy 11/9
(push herself off the cot), p124
✔6. Distress - Darkness Avenged - Alexandra Ivy 11/9
(she made a sound of distress), p146
✔7. Emergency - Dolled Up to Die - Lorena McCourtney 11/6
(there was an emergency), p32
✔8. Examination - The Dragons Want Her - Angela Foxxe 11/9
(Lynda sat up on an examination bed), loc12179
✔9. Fireman - Dolled Up to Die - Lorena McCourtney 11/6
(the fireman had the blaze knocked down), p305
✔10. Human - In Stone's Clasp - Christie Golden 11/6
(she was in her human form), p23
✔11. Mold - Forgive Me - Daniel Palmer 11/13
(makes the mold on the ceiling ripple), p163
✔12. Needle - In Stone's Clasp - Christie Golden 11/6
(their leaves took the form of needles), p113
✔13. Ordinary - In Stone's Clasp - Christie Golden 11/6
(everyday ordinary things), p82
✔14. Tears - Darkness Avenged - Alexandra Ivy 11/9
(Santiago brushed the tears), p147
✔15. Tiles - The Bedlam Stacks - Natasha Pulley 11/18
(worked loose some old loose tiles), p3
OPTIONAL WORDS:
✔16. Carousel - Forgive Me - Daniel Palmer 11/13
(another a carousel filled with slides), p
17. Dormitory -
(), p
✔18. Gurney - Field of Graves - J.T. Ellison 11/17
(they hustled her onto a gurney), p350
✔19. Hockey - Forgive Me - Daniel Palmer 11/13
(famously said of the hockey puck), p171
✔20. Inhale - Echoes of Ice - Boone Brux 11/26
(with a deep inhale, she stared at his waiting hand), loc2680
March Leftovers
✔Eulogy - Forgive Me - Daniel Palmer 11/13
(Angie had delivered a eulogy), Chap 8
August Leftovers
✔Brainwash - A Tale of Two Vampires - Katie MacAlister 11/16
(the thing he did to brainwash me), p92
✔Equations - Lady of Devices - Shelley Adina 11/23
(her sketches and equations had to be translated), p105
October Leftovers
✔Chandelier - Widow’s Web - Jennifer Estep 11/30
(as bright as the bulbs in the crystal chandelier), p303
December Mini Challenge
READ: 12/12
✔National Sock Day on the 4th. It can be hard to keep a pair of socks together. I have heard a rumor that lost socks turn into Tupperware lids 😉. International Ninja Day is observed annually on 5th. This day is all about pretending to be a ninja.
• Read a book with a pair of numbers in the total page count (exa.: 171, 223, and 355) OR Read a book with a title that starts with a letter found in 'NINJA.'
The Naked Duke - Sally MacKenzie 12/16
✔The 8th is Pretend to be a Time Traveler Day. This day began in 2007 with people dressing up and pretending to be time travelers. Dewey Decimal System Day is observed annually on the 10th. This is the most commonly used system for libraries to organize their books.
• Read a book from a time period you would like to visit OR Read a book you borrowed from the library.
Her Own Devices - Shelley Adina 12/7
✔Cat Herders Day is observed annually on 15th. Life can be like herding cats.
The 17th is National Maple Syrup Day. This sticky treat is a perfect addition to breakfast.
• Read a book that is difficult ( exa.: subject matter, length, you had a long wait list at the library, last book in a series) OR Read a book where a character gets into a sticky situation (awkward, embarrassing, precarious, or difficult situation or circumstance).
Sick Fux - Tillie Cole (sexual abuse) 12/30
✔The 26th is National Thank You Note Day. It is always kind to send a thank you note. National Chocolate Candy Day is on the 28th. This is a tasty treat.
• Read a book where you can find the author's first and last initials in 'THANK YOU NOTE DAY' OR Read a book where the word 'chocolate' can be found in the text.
A Killing Frost - Hannah Alexander 12/27
---------- ----------------------------------------------------------
SPELL OUT:
Using the first letter of a book title or the first letter of the authors first or last name, spell out a December item.
✔D: Dragon Wytch - Yasmine Galenorn 12/3
✔E: The Woman in Blue - Elly Griffiths 12/7
✔C: The Devil's Triangle - Catherine Coulter 12/9
✔E: Everlasting Enchantment - Kathryne Kennedy 12/18
✔M: Mind Game - Iris Johansen 12/11
✔B: Blood Pact - Tanya Huff 12/14
✔R: Red 1-2-3 - John Katzenbach 12/9
✔E: The Zig Zag Girl - Elly Griffiths 12/25
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
December Word Search 18/20 FOUND + 1 leftover
1. Bells - Vampires Dead Ahead - Cheyenne McCray 12/5
(Fae bells chimed at the front door), p145
2. Bright - Red 1-2-3 - John Katzenbach 12/9
(two days after the bright, warm morning), p20
3. Candy - Red 1-2-3 - John Katzenbach 12/9
(a large supply of candy bars), p74
4. Cheer - Silver Silence - Nalini Singh 12/13
(cheers thundered through the cavern), p314
5. Cocoa -
(), p
6. Cookies - Her Own Devices - Shelly Adina 12/7
(discovered a cache of cookies), p135
7. Decorations - Dreadmarrow Thief - Marjory Kaptanoglu 12/9
(like dreary decorations), p73
8. Family - Red 1-2-3 - John Katzenbach 12/9
(any family I should be calling), p14
9. Friends - Intensity - Sherrilyn Kenyon 12/9
(summoned a few friends to join their party), p150
10. Garland - Death on Paradise Island - B.M. Allsopp 12/19
(the sweet smelling salu salu garland), p10
11. Holly - The Woman in Blue - Elly Griffiths 12/7
(hidden under a holly bush), p51
12. Joy - Dreadmarrow Thief - Marjory Kaptanoglu 12/9
(how full of joy she was), p31
13. Lights - Red 1-2-3 - John Katzenbach 12/9
(the lights were ablaze inside her home), p15
14. Ornaments - Dreadmarrow Thief - Marjory Kaptanoglu 12/9
(and decorated with gilded ornaments), p110
15. Presents - The Woman in Blue - Elly Griffiths 12/7
(Christmas is about presents), p35
OPTIONAL WORDS:
16. Christmas Tree -
(), p
17. Mistletoe - Dragon Wytch - Yasmine Galenorn 12/3
(you've got elves with a mistletoe problem), p86
18. Peppermint - Her Own Devices - Shelly Adina 12/7
(Claire gave her a peppermint), p102
19. Stocking - Origin Phase - RTW Lipkin 12/17
(#2's torn stocking), p117
20. Wreath - Duck the Halls - Donna Andrews 12/25
(a wreath on the door), p188
.
October Leftovers
Aromatherapy -
(), p
Gettin' Birdy Wit It Duration: March 1, 2016 - February 28, 2017
READ: 20/29
★with the word “bird” or a type of bird in the title★
✔1. Crow Lake - Mary Lawson 1/15
✔2. Scarecrow - Matthew Reilly 2/4
✔3. Ravens - George Dawes Green 1/28
✔4. Sword of the Raven - Diana Duncan 2/12
5. The Double Eagle - James Twining
✔6. The Hawk and His Boy - Christopher Bunn 1/31
✔7. The Bird Eater - Ania Ahlborn 2/13
✔8. Stolen Songbird - Danielle Jensen 1/3
✔9. Blackbirds - Chuck Wendig 2/10
★with a bird on the cover★
✔1. Crooked Kingdom - Leigh Bardugo 12/17
✔2. Dark Promises - Christine Feehan 9/15
✔3. The Curse of the Wendigo - Rick Yancey 9/5
✔4. Birdman - Mo Hayder 1/7
5. My Lord Raven - Tamela Quijas
✔6. The Isle of Blood - Rick Yancey 9/13
✔7. The Chocolate Pirate Plot - JoAnna Carl 1/7
★the author’s first or last name is a type of bird★
1. Fool's Errand - Robin Hobb
2. Golden Fool - Robin Hobb
3. Fool's Fate - Robin Hobb
4. Royal Assassin - Robin Hobb
5. Assassin's Quest - Robin Hobb
✔6. The Library at Mount Char - Scott HAWKins 5/24
✔7. How to Entice an Enchantress - Karen HAWKins 6/29
✔8. Dead on the Delta - Stacey JAY 9/24
✔9. How to Pursue a Princess - Karen HAWKins 5/16
10. The Vampire's Secret - Raven Hart
✔11. The Last Good Man - Kathleen Eagle 2/17
12. Alone - Robert Crane
Tasty Treat #1 - Talenti GelatoDuration: January 1 - April 30, 2017
READ: 10/10
✔1. Alphonso Mango Sorbetto
Read a book with a cover in the orange family OR set in Portugal or India OR with a character that is/was in the military. (Please post the cover.)
The Immortals of Meluha - Amish Tripathi (India) 1/15
✔2. Caribbean Coconut Gelato
Read a book set in the Caribbean OR a book with a tree on the cover OR with CARIBBEAN or COCONUT in the text. (Please post the sentence and page/Loc.)
The Storm - Clive Cussler 2/15
(bananas and coconut milk from the trees), p364
✔3. Double Dark Chocolate Gelato
Read a book with a dark cover OR with dark subject matter (please tell us what that is) OR with an author who's first or last initial is a D. (Please post the cover.)
A Walk Across the Sun - Corban Addison (sex trafficking) 1/9
✔4. Key Lime Pie Gelato
Read a book set in Florida OR with a character that bakes OR with PIE in the title or in the series name.
The Beekeeper's Ball - Susan Wiggs (heroine is a master chef) 1/12
✔5. Mediterranean Mint Gelato
Read a book by an author who's first and last name start with the same letter OR with a title that starts with M OR a green cover. (Please post the cover.)
Me, Myself and Why? - Mary Janice Davidson 1/1
✔6. Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Gelato
Read a book set in Scotland OR a book published in April or May OR set in the 1800's.
Off Kilter - Hannah Reed 1/1
✔7. Old World Eggnog Gelato
Read a book that is set in the UK OR takes place at Christmas OR has a beverage on the cover. (Please post the cover.)
The Curse of Tenth Grave - Darynda Jones 1/11
✔8. Pumpkin Pie Gelato
Read a book that is set in one of the New England states (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont) OR where the characters celebrate Thanksgiving OR with a spicy story.
Fair Game - Jasmine Haynes 1/21
✔9. Southern Butter Pecan Gelato
Read a book set in the Southern United States OR that you consider a wicked indulgence OR with a three word title.
On the Growl - Celia Kyle 1/18
✔10. Tiramisu Gelato
Read a book set in Italy OR where the characters drink coffee OR whose title starts with a letter in TIRAMISU
I Think I Love You - Stephanie Bond 1/14
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Let's Go to Disneyland! Start Date: April 1, 2016
End Date: April 1, 2017
35/35 Tasks Complete
✔Main Street USA
✔A. Read a book that takes place in a small town in the US.
Thirty and a Half Excuses - Denise Grover Swank 8/6
✔B. Read a book with a vehicle or street scene on the cover.
White Night - Jim Butcher 5/4
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in MAIN STREET ARCADE.
Seduction's Shift - A.C. Arthur 7/28
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in DISNEYLAND RAILROAD (3 Word Minimum),
A Dance With Dragons - George R.R. Martin 10/10
✔E. Spell Out MAIN STREET USA.
M: Mother's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 4/30/16
A: Silenced - Allison Brennan 4/15/16
I: In Too Deep - Tracey Alvarez 4/21/16
N: Night Marchers - Rebecca Gober 4/25/16
S: Stolen - Allison Brennan 7/20/16
T: Time Salvager - Wesley Chu 7/15/16
R: The Darkening - Caris Roane 7/22/16
E: Pies and Prejudice - Ellery Adams 5/20/16
E: Jungle Freakn' Bride - Eve Langlais 5/17/16
T: The Future Falls - Tanya Huff 5/19/16
U: Ultimate Weapon - Shannon McKenna 11/19/16
S: Seven Years - Dannika Dark 4/20/16
A: All Wound Up - Jaci Burton 7/10/16
✔Adventureland
✔A. Read a book that is tagged Adventure on its GR Homepage.
Zero Hour - Clive Cussler 8/6/16
✔B. Read a book you think has an exciting cover. Please explain what made the cover exciting to you.
Alien Tango - Gini Koch (space shuttle, guns and a crocodile) 9/4/16
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in JUNGLE CRUISE.
Paper and Fire - Rachel Caine 8/14/16
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in INDIANA JONES ADVENTURE (3 Word Minimum).
About a Vampire - Lynsay Sands 8/11/16
✔E. Spell out ADVENTURELAND.
A: Stalked - Allison Brennan 6/30/16
D: Wicked After Midnight - Delilah Dawson 4/29/16
V: A Vision of Murder - Victoria Laurie 6/26/16
E: Edge of Darkness - Christine Feehan 7/24/16
N: League of Dragons - Naomi Novik 6/20/16
T: The Target - David Baldacci 6/25/16
U: The Ultimate Treasure - Heather Graham 8/13/16
R: Ink and Bone - Rachel Caine 7/25/16
E: Known - Kendra Elliot 8/6/16
L: Last to Die - Tess Gerritsen 6/24/16
A: Vision in Silver - Anne Bishop 7/19/16
N: Nightwalker - Allyson James 6/26/16
D: Defiant - Pamela Clare 6/28/16
✔Frontierland
✔A. Read a book that is tagged Historical Fiction on its GR Homepage AND takes place after 1800 in the US.
Dark Passage - M.J. Putney (1940) 8/15
✔B. Read a book that has either a cowboy or a horse on the cover
Matthew - Emma Lang 9/17/16
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in TOM SAWYER'S ISLAND.
The Immortal Who Loved Me - Lynsay Sands 7/11
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in MARK TWAIN RAILROAD (3 Word Minimum).
The Aeronaut's Windlass - Jim Butcher 10/1
✔E. Spell out FRONTIERLAND.
F: Fired Up - Jayne Ann Krentz 4/13/16
R: Fatal Circle - Linda Robertson 4/11/16
O: The Ocean at the End of the Lane - Neil Gaiman 4/7/16
N: No Limits - Alison Kent 7/16/16
T: Turn Coat - Jim Butcher 7/23/16
I: If Walls Could Talk - Juliet Blackwell 4/11/16
E: Easter Bunny Murder - Leslie Meier 9/8/16
R: The Ridge - Michael Koryta 8/8/16
L: Ghouls Gone Wild - Victoria Laurie 7/7/16
A: Personal Demon - Kelley Armstrong 8/2/16
N: The Sea of Trolls - Nancy Farmer 8/3/16
D: The Darkest Torment - Gena Showalter 6/17/16
✔Fantasyland
✔A. Read a retelling of a fairy tale or a book that is tagged Fantasy on its GR Homepage.
The Wild Ways - Tanya Huff 4/7/16
✔B. Read a book with a castle, knight or a woman in a beautiful dress on the cover.
Ghouls, Ghouls, Ghouls - Victoria Laurie 8/14/16
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in MATTERHORN.
Tall, Dark & Dead - Tate Hallaway 10/18/16
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in SLEEPING BEAUTY CASTLE (3 Word Minimum).
Best Laid Plans - Allison Brennan 9/2/16
✔E. Spell out FANTASYLAND.
F: Forged by Desire - Bec McMaster 7/2
A: Marked in Flesh - Anne Bishop 8/7/16
N: The Art of Duke Hunting - Sophia Nash 10/13/16
T: The Bitter Season - Tami Hoag 4/4/16
A: With Extreme Pleasure - Allison Kent 8/20/16
S: Cleopatra's Needle - Steven Siebert 6/23/16
Y: The Curse of the Wendigo - Rick Yancey 9/5/16
L: Lawless - T.M. Frazier 8/12/16
A: Dead Heat - Allison Brennan 8/27/16
N: Not Quite a Wife - Mary Jo Putney 10/28/16
D: Dead Heat - Patricia Briggs 8/5/16
continued...Tomorrowland
✔A. Read a book that is tagged Dystopia or Science Fiction or a book that takes place in the future.
Poison Princess - Kresley Cole 7/31
✔B. Read a book with a planet or stars on the cover.
One Fell Sweep - Ilona Andrews 4/1
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in AUTOPIA.
Burn for Me - Ilona Andrews 10/30/16
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in SPACE MOUNTAIN (3 Word Minimum).
Edge of Midnight - Charlene Weir 10/19/16
✔E. Spell out TOMORROWLAND.
T: Tempt Me If You Can - Janet Chapman 7/4
O: Obsidian Flame - Caris Roane 6/9
M: The Curious Case Of The Clockwork Menace - Bec McMaster 7/1
O: Play Dirty - Lorie O'Clare 6/12
R: Gates of Rapture - Caris Roane 6/10
R: Menagerie - Rachel Vincent 7/6
O: Stiletto - Daniel O'Malley 7/14/16
W: The Shadows - J.R. Ward 4/1/16
L: Immortal Ever After - Lynsay Sands 4/27/16
A: Allegiance of Honor - Nalini Singh 7/3
N: Coraline - Neil Gaiman 7/6
D: Devoted in Death - J.D. Robb 6/13/16
✔New Orleans Square
✔A. Read a book that is set in New Orleans or a book that istagged Paranormal.
Feel the Burn - G.A. Aiken 4/13/16
✔B. Read a book with a ship, statue or graveyard on the cover.
Death Angel - Linda Fairstein 7/26/16
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in HAUNTED MANSION.
If the Slipper Fits - Olivia Drake 9/5/16
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN (3 Word Minimum).
Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble - H.P. Mallory 9/17/16
✔E. Spell Out NEW ORLEANS SQUARE.
N: The Norse King's Daughter - Sandra Hill 7/11/16
E: The Devil Wears Kilts - Suzanne Enoch 10/17/16
W: Death Row - William Bernhardt 5/29/16
O: One Lucky Vampire - Lynsay Sands 5/31/16
R: White Trash Zombie Gone Wild - Diana Rowland 7/7/16
L: Vampire Most Wanted - Lynsay Sands 6/27/16
E: Edge of Sight - Roxanne St. Claire 9/9/16
A: Frostbitten - Kelley Armstrong 7/8/16
N: No Ghouls Allowed - Victoria Laurie 11/13/16
S: Small Favor - Jim Butcher 6/14/16
S: Invision - Sherrilyn Kenyon 5/30/16
Q: What Happens in London - Julia Quinn 7/3/16
U: Unbound - Angela Knight 7/9/16
A: Dreamwalker - Allyson James 7/9/16
R: Rocked by Love - Christine Warren 10/16/16
E: Spider's Bite - Jennifer Estep 10/25/16
Critter Country: Formerly Known as Bear Country
✔A. Read a book that has a nature or wilderness setting.
The Dreaming: A Novel of Australia - Barbara Wood (Australian Outback) 11/5/16
✔B. Read a book with an animal on the cover.
Circle of Death - Keri Arthur 8/18/16
✔C. Read a book in which the author's first AND last initial can be found in SPLASH MOUNTAIN.
Dark Destiny - M.J. Putney 9/14/16
✔D. Read a book in which the first letter of EVERY word in the title (include a,an,the) may be found in DAVY CROCKETT'S EXPLORER CANOES (3 Word Minimum).
Circle of Desire - Keri Arthur 9/17/16
✔E. Spell out CRITTER COUNTRY.
C: Cocaine Blues - Kerry Greenwood 7/10/16
R: Runaway Vampire - Lynsay Sands 8/30/16
I: It's a Wonderful Wife - Janet Chapman 8/13/16
T: Stamped Out - Terri Thayer 7/4/16
T: Tyrant - T.M. Frazier 7/5/16
E: Draykon - Charlotte English 8/22/16
R: Virals - Kathy Reichs 8/30/16
C: Cold Snap - Allison Brennan 7/30/16
O: Of Silk and Steam - Bec McMaster 8/20/16
U: The Undead in My Bed - Katie MacAlister 9/18/16
N: Night Watch - Linda Fairstein 8/28/16
T: The Temptation - Cheyenne McCray 8/21/16
R: Brotherhood in Death - J.D. Robb 9/29/16
Y: The Isle of Blood - Rick Yancey 9/13/16
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Ellis IslandDuration: January 1 - March 31, 2017
READ: 9/10
✔1. Originally much of the west shore of Upper New York Bay consisted of large tidal flats which hosted vast oyster banks, a major source of food for the Lenape population who lived in the area prior to the arrival of Dutch settlers. There were several islands which were not completely submerged at high tide. Three of them were given the name Oyster Islands by the settlers of New Netherland, the first European colony in the region.
Read a book in which the first letter of each word in the title starts with a letter in New Netherland (two word minimum).
Nautier and Wilder - Lora Leigh 1/23
✔2. Little Oyster Island was acquired by Samuel Ellis, a colonial New Yorker and merchant possibly from Wales, around the time of the American Revolution.
Read a book set in New York OR set on an island.
Three Sisters - Susan Mallery 2/4
✔3. The State of New York leased the island in 1794 and started to fortify it in 1795. It was a military post for nearly 80 years before it was selected to be a federal immigration station. The first station was opened with celebration on January 1, 1892. Three large ships landed on the first day and 700 immigrants passed over the docks. Almost 450,000 immigrants were processed at the station during its first year.
Read a book with a character that served in the military OR with a 0, 7,or 8 in the year it's published.
Echoes in Death - J.D. Robb (pub 2/2017) 3/29
✔4. On June 15, 1897, a fire of unknown origin, possibly caused by faulty wiring, turned the wooden structures on Ellis Island into ashes. No loss of life was reported, but most of the immigration records dating back to 1855 were destroyed. About 1.5 million immigrants had been processed at the first building during its five years of use.
Read a book where a building catches on fire OR a Series/TBR #5.
Dead as a Doornail - Charlaine Harris 1/26
(#5 in series AND someone tries to burn down Sookie's house)
✔5. Edward Lippincott Tilton and William A. Boring won the 1897 competition to design the first phase, including the Main Building (1897–1900), Kitchen and Laundry Building (1900–01), Main Powerhouse (1900–01), and the Main Hospital Building (1900–01).
Read a book with a character or author named Edward or William in any form.
Raising the Past - Jeremy Robinson 2/28
(Edward "Eddy" Moore is one of the main characters)
✔6. The present main structure was designed in French Renaissance Revival style and built of red brick with limestone trim. After it opened on December 17, 1900, the facilities proved to be able to barely handle the flood of immigrants that arrived in the years before World War I. Writer Louis Adamic came to America from Slovenia in southeastern Europe in 1913 and described the night he and many other immigrants slept on bunk beds in a huge hall. Lacking a warm blanket, the young man "shivered, sleepless, all night, listening to snores" and dreams "in perhaps a dozen different languages".
Read a book that has been written/translated in/to another language OR where a character speaks another language. Please tell us what the languages are.
The Beekeeper's Ball - Susan Wiggs (hero speaks English and Italian) 1/12
✔7. It is reported that the island’s first immigrant to be processed through the new building was a teenager named Annie Moore from County Cork in Ireland.
Read a book whose author's first or last name starts with A, M, C or I.
The Bird Eater - Ania Ahlborn 2/13
✔8. By the time it closed on November 12, 1954, twelve million immigrants had been processed by the U.S. Bureau of Immigration. At first, the majority of immigrants arriving through the station were Northern and Western Europeans. Later immigrants came in from Southern and Eastern Europe. Many reasons these immigrants came to the United States included escaping political and economic oppression, as well as persecution, destitution, and violence.
Read a book where a character moves (can be within their country or to another country) OR a character has bad times and survives.
The Lost Key - Catherine Coulter (hero moves to USA from UK) 1/23
9. Ellis Island was sometimes known as "The Island of Tears" or "Heartbreak Island" because of those 2% who were not admitted after the long transatlantic voyage.
Read a book with ISLAND, TEARS, HEART or BREAK in the title.
✔10. The Kissing Post is a wooden column outside the Registry Room, where new arrivals were greeted by their relatives and friends, typically with tears, hugs and kisses.
Read a book with a kissing scene OR where a character is greeted by friends or relatives after a long trip.
Eleventh Grave in Moonlight - Darynda Jones (major kissing scenes) 2/6
Not Another Challenge BookStart Date: July 1, 2014
End Date: April 15, 2017
READ 351/351
1. A = ADDICTED: COMPLETE
Read 26 books of your choice that will fit another challenge.
(view spoiler)
2. B. = BE GOOD TO YOURSELF: COMPLETE
Read 25 books from your favorite genre.
(view spoiler)
3. C. = CALIFORNIA DREAMING:COMPLETE
Read 24 books with a dreamy cover. "Dreamy" is open to interpretation--if it works for you, it counts.
(view spoiler)
4. D. = DRIFT AWAY: COMPLETE
Read 23 books that you would take on vacation.
(view spoiler)
Continued...5. E. = EASY: COMPLETE
Read 22 books that are easy. "Easy" can be interpreted as (but is not limited to) small books, manga, graphic novels, children's books, etc. Whatever you consider easy, will work.
(view spoiler)
6. F. = FOOL (IF YOU THINK IT'S OVER): COMPLETE
Read 21 series first books or 21 books from the top of your TBR.
(view spoiler)
7. G. = GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD: COMPLETE
Read 20 books with a bright or colorful cover. If it's bright/colorful to you, it works.
(view spoiler)
8. H. = HURTS SO BAD: COMPLETE
Read 19 books by your favorite author.
(view spoiler)
9. I. = I STARTED A JOKE: COMPLETE
Read 18 books that make you laugh.
(view spoiler)
10. J. = JACKIE BLUE: COMPLETE!
Read 17 books by a female author.
(view spoiler)
11. K. = KENTUCKY RAIN: COMPLETE!
Read 16 books set in the US.
(view spoiler)
12. L. = LONG GOODBYE: COMPLETE!
Read 15 books that are long (400+ pages), or where something sad occurs, or where someone has to say goodbye to something or someone. If "goodbye" is implied, it works.
(view spoiler)
13. M. = MAKE ME SMILE: COMPLETE!
Read 14 books with a HEA.
(view spoiler)
14. N. = NEVER ENDING STORY: COMPLETE!
Read 13 books from the bottom of your TBR.
(view spoiler)
15. O. = ON AND ON: COMPLETE!
Read 12 series next books, or from the middle of your TBR.
(view spoiler)
16. P. = PLEASE REMEMBER ME: COMPLETE
Read 11 books from a series you haven't read from in awhile, or from a genre or author you've not read from recently.
(view spoiler)
17. Q. = QUITE PLAYING GAMES: COMPLETE!
Read 10 books in which some type of game is played or some type of manipulation occurs. It can be any type of game (physical, sports related, emotional, a board game, video game, online game, etc.)
(view spoiler)
18. R. = RUNNING ON EMPTY: COMPLETE!
Read 9 books that will bring you current on a series, or nine of the books most recently added to your TBR.
(view spoiler)
19. S. = SOONER OR LATER: COMPLETE!
Read 8 books that you've been putting off.
(view spoiler)
20. T. = THERE SHE GOES: COMPLETE!
Read 7 books with a woman on the cover, or a strong female main character.
(view spoiler)
21. U. = URGENT: COMPLETE!
Read 6 newly released books that you've been anxiously waiting for.
(view spoiler)
22. V. = VIVA LAS VEGAS: COMPLETE!
Read 5 books that are connected to entertainment (celebrity, singer, actor, sports, etc--anything that entertains you), or in which a vacation occurs, or with a 'V' in the title.
(view spoiler)
23. W. = WALKING ON SUNSHINE: COMPLETE!
Read 4 books with a bright sunshiny day cover (daytime scene, sunshine, anything associated with sunshine), or with a sunshiny title (title words such as bright, yellow, sun, clouds, day,etc.).
(view spoiler)
24. X. = XANADU: COMPLETE!
Read 3 books with an 'X' in the title.
(view spoiler)
25. Y. = YOU'VE LOST THAT LOVING FEELING: COMPLETE!
Read 2 books that you have previously tried to read but couldn't, or books that you've added to your TBR but can't remember why.
(view spoiler)
26. Z. = ZOMBIE: COMPLETE!
Read a zombie book, or a book with a 'Z' in the title.
(view spoiler)
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
ElleEm's Pizza ChallengeStart Date: March 1, 2017
End Date: May 22, 2017
READ: 10/10
Option 1 - Make Your Own Pizza
★1. CRUST:
✔- Chicago Style (Pan, Deep-dish)
☀ Read a book with 400 pages or more
Cold Vengeance - Douglas Preston (545 pages) 5/22
★2. SAUCE:
✔- Béchamel Sauce (White Sauce)
☀ Read a book who has a main character that is a mother or read a book that takes place in France or references France.
St. Patrick's Day Murder - Leslie Meier 3/8
★3. TOPPINGS: (Choose at least 3)
✔- Pepperoni -
☀ Read a book that has the color red on the cover.
The Savage Altar - Åsa Larsson 3/4
✔- Ham -
☀ Read a book that is the last book of a series.
Harbinger - Pip Ballantine 4/25
✔- Mushrooms -
☀ Read a book that can be connected to one of the underlined words in this description, feel free to get creative!
Dark Embers - Tessa Adams (first in series) 3/24
✔- Spinach -
☀ Read a book that has a strong, male, main character.
Dragon of the Island - Mary Gillgannon 4/1
✔- Tomato -
☀ Read a book that is tagged as Young Adult.
Ultraviolet - R.J. Anderson 5/6
✔- Pineapple -
☀ Read a book that is set in a tropical place, on an island or in Australia.
Rogue Wave - Boyd Morrison (Hawaii) 3/4
★4. CHEESE:
✔- Mozzarella -
☀ Read a book that was on a best sellers list or was a Goodreads Choice Award winner in the previous year.
Echoes in Death - J.D. Robb 3/29
✔- Provolone -
☀ Read a book whose main character is an inventor or business owner or read a book whose main setting is in one of the original 13 colonies. Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts Bay, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island
Fish Perfume - Sammie Grace (Rhode Island) 3/6
CHALLENGE COMPLETE
Barbara's Challenges & Reading Lists
Books mentioned in this topic
The Oath of the Vayuputras (other topics)A Dying Fall (other topics)
Blood of the Dark Moon (other topics)
Straight from the Heart (other topics)
The Outcast Dead (other topics)
More...
Monthly Challenges
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Quarterly Challenges
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
Miscellaneous Challenges
50 States Challenge
Antarctica Challenge
ElleEm's Pizza Challenge
Ellis Island
Fall Scavenger Hunt
Favorite Album 1 - The Shepherd's Dog
Favorite Album 2 - Ocean Avenue
Favorite Album 3 - Century Child
Favorite Album 4 - Born in the USA
Favorite Album 5 - Back in the High Life
Favorite Album 6 - Hotel California
Gettin' Birdy Wit It
I ♥ Series Countdown
I Want to Be a Girl Scout!
Let's Go to Disneyland!
Not Another Challenge Book
The Ring Poem
Tasty Treat #1 - Talenti Gelato
Tasty Treat #2 Girl Scout Cookies
Tasty Treat #3 - M&Ms
The Year is 1917
Yellowstone National Park Challenge