Contents of blog copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2023
I've been gone a while. I started reading fanfiction to escape and I got sucked in an abyss.

I have no idea if someone else is hosting similar challenges. I just grabbed some of what I have hosted before.

Here's to a happy year of great reading
Jan2023: Not much has changed. Writing a fanfiction now O_o as well as reading but I bought 7 new books in December and hope to get those read soon. Crossing fingers about adding challenges (late!)

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Challenge - Reading Challenge Addict


Reading Challenge Addict
2012
hosted by Regina at Reading Challenge Addict

sign up here


Rules:
1. This challenge will begin on January 1, 2012 and end on December 31, 2012.
2. Write a starting post joining the challenge and outlining your challenges.
3. Track all of your challenge accomplishments - good & bad.
4. Stop by to join us in the mini-challenges, updates & extra giveaways throughout the year.

Levels:
Easy as Pie: 1-5 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
On the Roof: 6-10 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
In Flight: 11-15 Challenges (Entered & Completed)
Out of This World: 16+ Challenges (Entered & Completed)

Sound simple? Joining challenges is the easy part, it's completing them where it gets tricky. I did 16+ for 2011 and really stressed about it but I've join several challenges for 2012 where I only need to read one book so.....


I'm going for Out of This World, again.

Challenges Joined for 2012

1. 12 in 12 (read 12)
2. 50 States (read 50)
3. 150+ (read 150)
4. Alex Awards (read 1-3)
5. ARC (read 12)
6. Cruisin' thru the Cozies (read 7-12)
7 & 8. two different eBook challenges (read 25)
9. Harry Potter (read 7)
10. Mt. TBR (read 25)
11. Narnia Project (read 7)
12. Paranormal (read 1-5)
13. Paranormal Romance (read 1-5)
14. Read Your Own Books (read 1-5)
15. Romance (read 4)
16. Romantic Suspense (read 4)
17. Sports Romance (read 1-3)
18. Vampires (read 1-5)
19. What's in a Name (read 6)
20. Getting Lost in a Comfortable Book (read 5)


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Challenge - eBooks

eBook Reading Challenge
2012


Rules:
Read 25 ebooks

That's the challenge in a nutshell but as there are two ebook challenges for 2012 and I couldn't decide between them....Check out each page for greater details and more levels.


Challenge 1: Hosted by Sarah at Workaday Reads (sign-up here)

Challenge 2: Hosted by Jamie at The Eclectic Bookshelf (sign-up here)

Possibilities:
Under the Willow, Sprout, Mystic Wolves trilogy,...


1. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn
2. Carrots by Colleen Helme
3. The Ladybug Jinx by Tonya Kappes
4. Under the Willow by Kari Jo Spear
5. Wife by Wednesday by Catherine Bybee
6. Amethyst Moon by Ann Mayburn
7. Opening Moves by Sean Michael
8. The Book of Deacon by Joseph Lallo
9. Taking Love in Stride by Donna Fasano
10. How Lego Built a Comeback by the editors of New Word City
11. A Lesson Learned by Carol Lynne
12. Permanently Legless by J. L. Merrow
13. The Longest Stride by TA Chase
14. Bring Him Gold by TA Chase
15. Levi by Bailey Bradford
16. Shadow Soldier by Carol Lynne
17. Permanent by Megan Slayer
18. Trinity by Deena Remiel
19. Squeak and a Roar by Joyee Flynn
20. Dance with Me by Heidi Cullinan
21. Redwood Bend by Robyn Carr
22. Welcome Home Cowboy by Eden Cole
23. Fire & Fang by Eden Cole
24. The Dragon & His Houseboy by Crymsyn Hart
25. Magician's Chains by Michelle Polaris



~Challenge Complete~
April 7

Wow, 25 ebooks and only one of them a re-read :) working on another 25....

26. Princess in Peril by Rachelle McCalla
27. Stripes and Twin Horns by Joyee Flynn
28. Home Ice by Kate Sherwood
29. Pieces of a Rainbow by Maria Savva
30. Splash and Elegance by Gabielle Evans
31. Protecting the Princess by Rachelle McCalla
32. Oscar by Bailey Bradford
33. The Christmas Proposition by K. A. Mitchell
34. Winter Knights by Harper Fox
35. Just a Little White Lie by Lynette Hallberg
36. Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank
37. Gideon by Jacquelyn Frank
38. Elijah by Jacquelyn Frank
39. Houseboat on the Nile by Tinnean
40. Pestilence by T. A. Chase
41. Bubblegum Princess by Scott Gordon
42. War by T. A. Chase 
43. Famine by T. A. Chase
44. Nate's Deputy by Lavinia Lewis
45. Damien by Jacquelyn Frank
46. 28 Days to Hope for Your Home by Dana White
47. Sunrise Point by Robyn Carr
48. Academic Pursuits by Lou Harper
49. For the Attention Of by Kim Dare
50. Love Bites by Lynsay Sands

~Challenge Complete~
May 20

51. Xenofreak Nation by Melissa Conway
52. Hard Tail by JL Merrow
53. Marathon Cowboys by Sarah Black
54. One Small Thing by Piper Vaughn & M.J. O'Shea
55. The Second Door by T.C. Blue
56. Sub-Mission by Sage
57. One Night in a Dungeon by Samantha Cayto
58. Death by T. A. Chase
59. A Deadly Chocolate Pi by Cynthia Gallant-Simpson

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Challenge - Harry Potter




Harry Potter
Reading Challenge

2012
hosted by Penelope
at The Reading Fever

sign up here




Rules:
Read all seven books in the Harry Potter series during 2012.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

There's more than that involved with this challenge and there are prizes so be sure to check out the sign up post!


Books Read (Date Read):
1.Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Pheonix
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Challenge - Narnia Project

Narnia Reading Project
2012
hosted by Rikki at Rikki's Teleidoscope

sign up here


Rules:
Rikki's has NEVER read a Narnia book or seen the movie and would like others to join her in reading all seven books during 2012.

That said. I've read a couple and I've seen a movie but it's been a long time and to read all seven has been on my TBR list for long enough. It's time to do this!

Books to Read (date read):
1. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
2. Prince Caspian
3. The Voyage of the Dawn Trader
4. The Silver Chair
5. The Horse and His Boy
6. The Magician’s Nephew
7. The Last Battle

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Reading My Own Books

Welcome to Mt. TBR


At this time, I have boxes of books in a storage unit. They've been listed at Library Thing and have a somewhat method to the boxing but not really. This isn't even all of them! A lot of these have been read at least once already but the goal is to read all the ones that have been purchased but not read....To Be Read.

I found some challenges to help me with this!




Challenge 1: Mt. TBR

Time frame: 2012

Basic requirements: No books from 2012, purchased or gifts. No library books, re-reads or ARCs. There are several levels (12, 25, 40, 50, 75, 100) corresponding with a mountains. I'm going for Mt. Vancouver and hope to read 25 books.

Sign-up here




Challenge 2: Read Your Own Books

Time frame: 2012

Basic requirements: Any book that you have personally purchased, been gifted, or swapped, BEFORE January 1, 2012 and just have not gotten the chance to read yet. NO ARCs, library books, re-reads or books purchased in 2012. There are four levels but I'm going for level 1 and hope to read 1-5 books.

sign-up here





Challenge 3:Off the Shelf!

Time frame: 2012

Basic requirements: No books from 2012, purchased or gifts. No library books, re-reads or ARCs. Crossover challenges are fine, you can change levels at any time, this is eBook, short story, and graphic novel friendly,There are several levels (5, 15, 30, 50, 75, 76-135, 136-200). I'm going for trying and hope to read 15 books.

sign-up here



My worst enemy.....
Challenge 4: The TBR Double Dare

Time frame: Jan 1 to Apr 1 , or goal of your choice.

Basic requirements: Make a resolution to read only the books in your To Be Read stack from January 1, 2012 to April 1. Can you survive? Nope! Didn't even make it to six books last year! This year, my goal is 30 Days, except for review/tour books and The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae.

sign up here

~Challenge Failed~
January 19
read "Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse", a board book!


Challenge 5: The Unread Book

Time frame: 2012

Basic requirements: any every book you own (including new books purchased in 2012) that you haven't read yet.

sign up here



Books Read

1. Christmas Haven by Hope White (first book of the year)
2. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn
3. Deep Disclosure by Dee Davis
4. Carrots by Colleen Helme
5. The Ladybug Jinx by Tonya Kappes
~Completed Read Your Own Books at Tales from the Crypt~
January 16
6. Under the Willow by Kari Jo Spear
7. Virgin River by Robyn Carr
8. A Cookie Before Dying by Virginia Lowell
9. Great Short Poems edited by Paul Negri
10. Wife by Wednesday by Catherine Bybee
11. The Book of Deacon by Joseph Lallo
12. Temptation Ridge by Robyn Carr
13. Tails of Love edited by Lori Foster
14. Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis
15. Liver Let Die by Liz Lipperman
~Completed Off the Shelf~
March 14
16. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
17. The Gardner Heist by Ulrich Boser
18. The Lost Gate by Orson Scott Card
19. Nobody's Safe by Richard Steinberg
20. Holiday Hideout by Lynette Eason
21. Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank
22. Zero Day by  David Baldacci
23. The Candlestone by Bryan Davis
24. Micro by Michael Crichton and Richard Preston
25. The Blind Side by Michael Lewis
~completed Mt. TBR~
May 22

TBR from 2012
all the books above plus....
26. Amethyst Moon by Ann Mayburn
27. Trinity by Deena Remiel
28. The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens
29. The Unlikely Wife by Debra Ullrick
30. Rainshadow Road by Lisa Kleypas
31. The Ice Dragon by George R. R. Martin
32. Brownies and Broomsticks by Bailey Cates
33. Copy Killing by Sofie Kelly
34. Always Room for One More
35. War by T.A. Chase
36. Pestilence by T.A Chase
37. Famine by T. A. Chase
38. Damien by Jacquelyn Frank
39. 28 Days to Hope for Your Home by Dana White
40. Under a Vampire Moon by Lynsay Sands
41. Love Bites by Lynsay Sands
42. Devil's Food Cake Murder by Joanne Fluke
43. Town in a Blueberry Jam by B. B. Haywood
44. Stamped Out by Terry Thayer
45. Xenofreak Nation by Melissa Conway
46. Hard Tail by JL Merrow
47. One Small Thing by Piper Vaughn & M.J. O'Shea
48. The Second Door by T.C. Blue
49. Tombs of Endearment by Casey Daniels
50. Forbidden Heat by Opal Carew
51. A Deadly Chocolate Pi by Cynthia Gallant-Simpson

~Challenge Complete~
April 21 doesn't end!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Multiple Challenges at The Eclectic Bookshelf

2012 Reading Challenges from
Jamie at The Eclectic Bookshelf has several reading challenges that I'm going to participate in. Quick look at the rules and levels below..... challenges have been moved as follows:

Moved to different post with another ARC challenge.

Moved to a different page with another ebook challenge, here

Romance & Romantic Suspense Reading Challenges have been moved to (link later) with other romance challenges.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Challenge - The Alex Awards

The Alex Awards Challenge
2012
hosted by The Story Girl

sign up


Rules:
It's pretty simple -- read Alex Awards winners! I will also count nominees.

Levels:
1. 1-3 books
2. 4-6 books
3. 7-9 books
4. 10+ books

The most important link you'll need is where to find the lists of winners ;) try here

I haven't done more than taken a quick glance at the list so I'm going for level 1

There is a lot of good information on the sign up page so be sure to check it out.

1. own Room :: read -
2.
3.





copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Multiple Challenges at Tales from the Crypt

2012 Reading Challenges from

Our hosts at Tales from the Crypt have several reading challenges that I'm going to participate in. The rules and levels are the same for all of them so here goes.....

Read Your Own Books has been moved to here, with like challenges

Paranormal & Vampires has been moved to here, with like challenges

Paranormal Romance has been moved to (link later) with other romance challenges.


Rules:
Starts January 1, 2012 and ends December 31, 2012
Anyone can join
You don’t have to have a blog to participate.
Non-Bloggers feel free to share your list of books in the comment section of the monthly link up post.
Reviews though not required are always nice.
Audio, E-books, Bound and re-reads all count
There is no need to come up with your list of books in advance.
Challenge crossovers ok
Create a sign up post and link up in the linky.

Levels:
Level 1 – Read 1-5 Paranormal Romances
Level 2 – Read 6-10 Paranormal Romances
Level 3 – Read 11-20 Paranormal Romances
Level 4 – Read 21+ Paranormal Romances

I'm going for level 1 and plan to read at least one book that qualifies for each challenge.




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

50 States or Around the World...

two challenges that are all about
So how do you decide what state/country a book is categorized under?

1. In a fiction read it would be the State or Country that the book spends the most time in. (Ie. If your main character is from Wisconsin but the book is all about his/her time in college in California – the book should categorize under California….)

2. Non fiction reads categorize in whatever State or Country it is about (Ie…. a book about fly fishing in Colorado is a Colorado point, and a book about women in Afghanistan is an Afghanistan point.

3. If the book goes from one state to another… go with the state that most of the time is spent.


Your books can be of any genre and any format (ie. paperback, ebook, audiobook, etc.). No short stories. Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine. (Re-read reviews must be written within the year 2012; you can not use old reviews.)

The USA 50 states are listed below, ready to have a book listed with each one ;) I'll add other places as I read them. I didn't do so well with the map for 2011 but will try it again later and will add a link. map?

Wait? Did you just say reviews? Yikes! I'll try but....dang! I have a hard enough time reading enough states.



Challenge 1: Where Are You Reading?

Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Use Google Maps to keep track of where in the world you're reading

Sign-up here





Challenge 2: The 50 States Reading Challenge


Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: read a book set in each state.

Sign-up here


Sep 30: finished 50/50 by Dean Karnazes with Matt Fitzgerald. Dean runs a marathon in every state! Each marathon is mentioned in the book. Too bad this doesn't satisfy the challenge requirement ;-)

Alabama - possibility: The Battle Hymn Blues (kindle)
Alaska - Bearing All by Tiffinie Helmer
Arizona - Trinity by Deena Remiel
Arkansas -
California - Virgin River by Robyn Carr
Colorado - Lover's Leap by Emily March
Connecticut - possibility: Allergic to Death by Peg Cochran (do not own, yet)
Delaware - Taking Love in Stride by Donna Fasano
Florida -
Georgia - Carrots by Colleen Helme
Hawaii - Micro by Michael Crichton and Richard Preston
Idaho - The Unlikely Wife by Debra Ullrick
Illinois -
Indiana - Squeak and a Roar by Joyee Flynn
Iowa -
Kansas -
Kentucky - The Ladybug Jinx by Tonya Kappes
Louisiana - Bring Him Gold by TA Chase
Maine - Spellbound Falls by Janet Chapman
Maryland - A Cookie Before Dying by Virginia Lowell
Massachusetts - The Gardner Heist by Ulrich Boser
Michigan -
Minnesota - Dance with Me by Heidi Cullinan
Mississippi -
Missouri -
Montana - Welcome Home Cowboy by Eden Cole
Nebraska -
Nevada - Magician's Chains by Michelle Polaris
New Hampshire - possibility: a Booktown Mystery - Sentenced to Death
New Jersey - Ancient Awakening by Matthew Bryan Laube
New Mexico -
New York - A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas
North Carolina - Holiday Hideout by Lynette Eason
North Dakota - Dakota Born by Debbie Macomber
Ohio - Tombs of Endearment by Casey Daniels
Oklahoma -
Oregon - A SEAL in Wolf's Clothing by Terry Spear
Pennsylvania - The Christmas Proposition by K. A. Mitchell
Rhode Island - possibility: The Ghost and Mrs. McClure (file box 25)
South Carolina - Stealing Home by Sherryl Woods
South Dakota -
Tennessee - The Blind Side by Michael Lewis
Texas - Liver Let Die by Liz Lipperman
Utah -
Vermont - Under the Willow by Kari Jo Spear
Virginia - Hiss of Death by Rita Mae & Sneaky Pie
Washington - Christmas Haven by Hope White (1st book of the year!)
West Virginia - Zero Day by David Baldacci
Wisconsin -
Wyoming - Quinn by R.C. Ryan

Toronto, Canada - Opening Moves by Sean Michael
Denmark - How Lego Built a Comeback by the editors of New Word City
Highlands, Scotland - The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens
Corsica - The 4 Phase Man by Richard Steinberg
Amazon Jungle - Pestilence by T. A. Chase
Mongolia - War by T. A. Chase
Africa - Famine by T. A. Chase
Scotland - Always Room for One More - Sorche Nic Leodhas
St. Lucia - Under a Vampire Moon by Lynsay Sands
Southampton, England - Hard Tail by JL Merrow
Paris -  Death by T. A. Chase
Tahiti - Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn (happens worldwide but healing takes place in Tahiti)
Fuji - Just Ask by Mia Downing


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Snowy Days Read-a-Thon


Snowy Days Read-a-Thon
December 5 - 7, 2011
hosted by Lindsay at Turning the Pages

information page



Rules:
From December 5 - 7, I am hoping to get in as many books as possible and make that 2011 reading challenge a thing of the past. Clear up some space in my to-be-read list just in time to add books that arrive on Christmas morning!

So, if you are interested in joining me, please comment below and I'll see you on Twitter (hashtag #SDRAT).


My Plan:

I have no idea what I'm going to be reading but do have a couple of challenges to finish up before starting a whole new batch.

Possibilities:
1. Janeology finished before RaT started
2. Catching Santa
3. Gone
4. Before I Fall
5. 18 Minutes
6. Red Alert
7. Lost Christmas
8. Traiteur's Ring
9. Second Chance
10. Northlight
11. Hunger Games read for challenges next year
12.
13.

The top three and #11 are for 2011 challenges, 1-10 will need reviews too

My Twitter:
#bookdragonslair




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Friday, November 25, 2011

Challenge - What's in a Name 5




What's in a Name 5
2012
hosted by Beth at Beth Fish Reads
Challenge sign-up page




Rules:
Between January 1 and December 31, 2012, read one book in each of the following categories:
  1. A book with a topographical feature (land formation) in the title: Black Hills, Purgatory Ridge, Emily of Deep Valley
  2. A book with something you'd see in the sky in the title: Moon Called, Seeing Stars, Cloud Atlas
  3. A book with a creepy crawly in the title: Little Bee, Spider Bones, The Witches of Worm
  4. A book with a type of house in the title: The Glass Castle, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Ape House
  5. A book with something you'd carry in your pocket, purse, or backpack in the title: Sarah's Key, The Scarlet Letter, Devlin Diary
  6. A book with a something you'd find on a calendar in the title: Day of the Jackal, Elegy for April, Freaky Friday, Year of Magical Thinking
The book titles are just suggestions, you can read whatever book you want to fit the category.
Other Things to Know:
  • Books may be any form (audio, print, e-book).
  • Books may overlap other challenges.
  • Books may not overlap categories; you need a different book for each category.
  • Creativity for matching the categories is not only allowed but encouraged.
  • You do not have to make a list of books before hand.
  • You do not have to read through the categories in any particular order.

Check out the sign-up page for more information.

The plan:
1. The Call of the Canyon by Zane Grey
1. Paradise Valley by Robyn Carr (she has several)
2. The City and the Stars by Arthur C. Clarke
2. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn
3. The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden
3. Alias Dragonfly by Jane Singer
4. Carriage House or The Cabin both by Carla Neggers
5. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
5. The 80 Dollar Champion by Elizabeth Letts
6. 4th of July by James Patterson & Maxine Paetro
6. Murder on Monday by Ann Purser

My reads:
1. topographical feature:

Nitt Witt Hill
by Sebastian Gibson

2. something you'd see in the sky:

The Hawk and His Boy
by Christopher Bunn

3. creepy crawly:

The Ladybug Jinx
by Tonya Kappes


4. type of house:
Houseboat on the Nile
by Tinnean
5. something you'd carry in your pocket, purse, or backpack:

The Book of Deacon
by Joseph Lallo


6. something you'd find on a calendar:

Wife by Wednesday
by Catherine Bybee



~Challenge Complete~
May 3
copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving....

Just a quick note to wish all who celebrate Thanksgiving a....


and if you don't - have a great weekend. I'll be spending the day with extended family but will back soon

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Challenge - 150+ Books

150+ Books Challenge
2012
hosted by Amy at My Overstuffed Bookshelf

sign up

Rules:
1. The goal is to read 150 or more books. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate. Posting on GoodReads or wherever you post your reviews is good enough.

2. Allowed are: Audio, Re-reads, eBooks, YA, Manga, Graphic Novels, Library books, Novellas, Young Reader, Nonfiction – as long as the book has an ISBN or equivalent or can be purchased as such, the book counts.

What doesn't count: Individual short stories or individual books in the Bible and comic books.

3. No need to list your books in advance. You may select books as you go. Even if you list them now, you can change the list if needed.

4. Crossovers from other reading challenges count.

5. Challenge begins January 1st, 2012 thru December 31, 2012. Books started before the 1st do not count. You can join at anytime.

6. When you sign up under Linky, put the direct link to your post where your books will be listed. Include the URL to this post so that other viewers can find this fun challenge. If you’d prefer to put your list in the sidebar of your blog, please leave your viewers the link to the sign up page. Again, so viewers can join the challenge too.Levels:
no levels, just read 150 or more books during 2012

Monthly Record (will be links)
January
February
March

April
May
June

July
August
~ Challenge Complete ~
August 13
September

October
November
December

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Friday, November 18, 2011

Thoughts on...Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue by Stephanie Laurens

Strange to read a Regency Romance where so much of the book takes place away from the watchful eyes of the ton. And more telling, because of the series, away from the protection of the Cynster Men. Not for nothing that the Head of the Family's nickname is Devil.

It is very clearly stated on the cover "Three heroes, three rescues, three weddings." So we know there will be three stories (luckily for us, 3 novels). Because the stories involve Cynster females, there will be headstrong, beautiful women and a bit of danger. We also know there will be a happy ending.

I guess this trilogy has a "formula" but really, don't most romance books? The details of time period and the characters are what draw us in and Ms. Laurens has this firmly mastered. We're allowed to visit a well established series from a different point of view and this novel lets us visit Scotland with a stop at The Vale.

On the strength of the author and my familiarity of the series, I have already purchase book two, In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster and after reading half of book one, am eagerly waiting Jan 31 and the publication of book three, The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae.

So formula or not, Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue starts with a kidnapping, follows with a chase across borders, a rescue and an unlikely introduction to who could only be the Earl of Glencrae.

I haven't finished the book yet but will before heading to sleep....started it today and even though I know there will be a wedding, I must know how the book ends.

Now, where did I leave In Pursuit.....


Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book due to the fact that I love this author and have read so many of the other books in the series. Plus I wanted to support Avon Books' k.i.s.s and teal campaign. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of .........


Viscount Breckenridge to the Rescue
by Stephanie Laurens

publisher: HarperCollins, Imprint: Avon
ISBN: 9780062068606
Mass Market Paperback
Romance
18+
448 pages

Product Description:

You are cordially invited to the wedding of Miss Heather Cynster . . . but not before she encounters kidnappers, danger, and a daring rescue at the hands of Viscount Breckenridge

Determined to hunt down her very own hero, one who will sweep her off her feet and into wedded bliss, and despairing of finding him in London’s staid ballrooms, Heather Cynster steps out of her safe world and boldly attends a racy soiree.

But her promising hunt is ruined by the supremely interfering Viscount Breckenridge, who whisks her out of scandal—and straight into danger, when a mysterious enemy seizes her, bundles her into a coach, and conveys her out of London.

Now it’s up to the notorious Breckenridge to prove himself the hero she’s been searching for all along . . .


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Unplugged.....



Gonna be Unplugged for a while. Not even a Monday post.....maybe a review or two but....taking my life off-line for a bit

Happy reading,

Gina


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Monday, November 14, 2011

Happy Monday! And the Winner Is...

And the Winner is....... looks like no one wants a copy....guess I should have done it as a separate post.

Hope everyone has a great week planned.

Mailbox Monday is a place to share all the wonderful books that have come to live in your home– including paper books, e-books and audio books. Started by Marcia of The Printed Page, the mailbox is currently on tour. Check it out so you know where to go next month.

A big Thank You to Serena for hosting in October, the November co-hosts are Joy & Serena at Edgy Inspirational Romance (blog link, not post link).



Received for Review:
52 Small Changes: One Year to a Happier, Healthier You by Brett Blumenthal
Lifting the Wheel of Karma: A Profound Spiritual Journey of Extraordinary Healing and Redemption by Paul H. Magid (January blog tour)


Purchased (this time it wasn't Target but Costco that got me):
Redwall by Brian Jacques
Wish You Were Here...Biography of Douglas Adams
Inheritance by Christopher Paolini
If You Give a Dog a Donut by Laura Numeroff
The Next Always by Nora Roberts
Seriously...I'm Kidding by Ellen Degeneres
Lost December by Richard Paul Evans

Gift from the author:
By Royal Decree by Kate Emerson (autographed!) - Dewey's Read-a-Thon
Daddy's Home by A.K. Alexander (thank you from Michele Scott)


kindle/ebooks:
So This Is Christmas anthology
Deadly Gamble by Connie Shelton
Innkeeping with Murder by Tim Myers
At Wick's End by Tim Myers
Murder on the Ghost Walk by Ellen Elizabeth Hunter
Murder Spins a Tale by Veryl Ann Grace
Forged by Sean Michael
Tyler's Cowboy by Amber Kell
Quinn's Blessing by Jude Mason & Jenna Byrnes
Stay the Night by Scarlet Parrish
What Remains by Bailey Bradford
To Love Again by Simone Anderson
The Love of a Mate (shifter) by Kim Dare
plus 27 free or near free titles
Teaching Topaz by Tory Temple
Sunset Ridge by Carol Lynne




What are you Reading?

is a weekly Monday meme hosted by Shelia at Book Journey. Post what you read last week and what you're planning to read this week then link to Shelia's post. Then visit, visit, visit! She has a comment contest going on each week tied to the meme.


Finished:
Forged
Tyler's Cowboy
The Love of a Mate
What Remains
Quinn's Blessing (and that finishes a challenge)
Teaching Topaz
Stay the Night
To Love Again
Sunset Ridge


Reading:
Live Free or Die
To Santa with Love wait until 21st for challenge ;)
52 Small Changes
Forged
Redwall

Next up:
something from my "read this year" list, or
something from my review pile, or
something from my "Read but Still Need to Review" list ;)

Reviewed:
52 Small Changes (part 1)


Need to Review-keep a running total and cross off as completed:
(this list is way too long and if they've been reviewed I didn't label them correctly!)

Spin the Plate, short story (current read)
A Modern Witch (current read)
Kekula (current read)
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much
True North
Whiskey Gulf
A Circle of Souls
Benny & Shrimp
The Right Side of the Tracks
Second Chance

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Saturday, November 12, 2011

A Little Bit of Everything!

I may read a lot but I don't always read all genres. Here are a couple four challenges to help. Where a book is identified by more than one genre eg historical romance, it may only count for either the historical fiction or romantic fiction genres – not both. I know it isn't quite fair, the books will overlap between challenges!



Challenge 1: 12 in 12 a LibraryThing group

Choose 12 categories. Check. See challenge 1 list
Now decide how many books you want to read for each. Check. I'm going easy and will read One book for each category.




Challenge 2: Around the Stack in How Many Ways?

Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Read one book from specific genres. I'm going for Backpacker and will read 6-10 books. See challenge 2 list.

sign-up here





Challenge 3: The Eclectic Reader
Time frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: read one book to fit each genre. See challenge 3 list.

sign-up here



Challenge 4: Mixing it Up
Time frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Read and review a book for each genre, there are levels! I'm going to play it safe and am going for Measuring Jug and plan to read 1-4 books. See challenge 4 list.

sign-up here


~Challenge 1~ with Possible Books
√1. Banned/Challenged Book - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (4-13)
√2. Cozy Mystery - A Cookie Before Dying
3. Fairy Tale - The Fairy Tales Detective
√4. Horror - Ancient Awakenings (4-26)
√5. Western - Quinn by R.C. Ryan (4-9)
√6. book of Poetry - Great Short Poems (2-2)
7. 100 Best Novels - Catch 22 or Brave New World
√8. Fantasy - The Book of Deacon (2-10)
√9. Science Fiction - Xenofreak Nation by Melissa Conway (5-26)
√10. Paranormal - Trinity by Deena Remiel
√11. Suspense - Christmas Haven
√12. under 18 - Under the Willow


~Challenge 2~ fill in books from other two lists
√1. Crime/Mystery - A Cookie Before Dying
√2. Thriller - The 4 Phase Man by Richard Steinberg (4-14)
√3. Romance - Christmas Haven
√4. Fantasy - The Book of Deacon (2-10)
5. Sci-Fi -
*6. Literary - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
√7. Young Adult - Under the Willow
√8. Historical Fiction (romance) - The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens (reviewed March)
√9. Dystopian - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (4-13)
10. Steampunk -
√11. Comedy/Black Comedy - Nitt Witt Hill (1-24)
√12. Horror/Ghost Story - Ancient Awakenings (4-26)
13. Adventure -
14. War -
15. Gothic -
√16. Poetry - Great Short Poems (2-2)
17. Drama -
*18. Kids - The View from the Cherry Tree
19. Graphic Novel -
*20. Classic - The Hound of the Baskervilles

~Challenge (#2) Completed~
April 26


~Challenge 3~ with Possible Books
1. Literary Fiction - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
√2. Crime/Mystery Fiction - Copycat Killing by Sofie Kelly
√3. Romantic Fiction - Wife by Wednesday (2-4)
√4. Historical Fiction (romance) - The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens (reviewed March)
√5. Young Adult - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (4-13)
√6. Fantasy - The Book of Deacon (2-10)
√7. Science Fiction - Xenofreak Nation by Melissa Conway (5-26)
√8. Non Fiction - Great Short Poems (2-2)
√9. Horror - Ancient Awakenings (4-26)
√10. Thriller /Suspense - The 4 Phase Man by Richard Steinberg (4-14)
11. Classic - The Hound of the Baskervilles
√12. Your favorite genre - (cozy) A Cookie Before Dying

~Challenge 4~ with Possible Books
1. Classic - The Hound of the Baskervilles
2. Biography - A Three Dog Life (1-26) or The Eighty Dollar Champion
3. Cookery, Food and Wine - Title4. History -
5. Modern Fiction -
6. Graphic Novels and Manga -
7. Crime and Mystery - A Cookie Before Dying
√8. Horror - Ancient Awakenings (4-26)
√9. Romance - The Ladybug Jinx (1-16) Tails of Love (2-24) - reviewed
√10. Science Fiction and Fantasy - Time Slice (2-6) - reviewed
11. Travel - Homer's Odyssey
√12. Poetry and Drama - Great Short Poems (2-2) - reviewed
√13. Journalism and Humour - Nitt Witt Hill (1-24) - reviewed
14. Science and Natural History -
15. Children's and Young Adult - Under the Willow (1-17)
16. Social Sciences and Philosophy -

~Challenge (#4) Completed~
February 24

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Friday, November 11, 2011

Reading Challenge - Completed!


A to Z Challenge

2011
Hosted at it's own blog


Challenge Completed
November 11, 2011



My original post about the challenge

Quick recap:
Read books with a word in the title beginning with each letter of the alphabet

Final List:
There are 26 titles and they can be found on the original post

This challenge was stressful for me and I really struggled with the last two letters. Now, if I had done a different level I wouldn't have to have read the last two but I was stubborn. Sigh. I'll keep track next year but don't know if I'll be official.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Reading Challenge - Completed!

The Color Coded Reading Challenge
2011
Hosted by Bev at My Reader's Block



Challenge Completed
October 8, 2011

My original post about the challenge
Quick recap:
Read books with specific color names as part of the title. Blue, yellow, white, brown, black, green, red. Another color and implied color
Final List:

Forever Blue
by Suzanne Brockmann
has been on my shelves nearly forever

Red in the Flower Bed
by Andrea Nepa
children's book sent for review (review)

Yellow Moon
by Jewell Parker Rhodes
review book - horror (review)

Being a Green Mother
by Piers Anthony
favorite re-read

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
by Bill Martin Jr & Eric Carle
children's book (review)

Black Swan
by Willa Okati
ebook, Swan shifter

White Sleeper
by David R. Fett & Stephen Langford
review book - biological terror (review)

The Man with the Golden Gun
by Ian Fleming
I've had this one for about three years

Repairing Rainbows
by Lynda Fishman
review book - non-fiction (review)


This was hard for me and while I had several review books for this year, I don't know if I'll officially join this challenge again. I may have been cheating with Brown Bear but I read about 15 picture books while I was boxing them up and it was only after I finished that I realized I could count it.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Monday, November 7, 2011

Thoughts on...52 Small Changes - One Year to a Happier, Healthier You

I'm a firm believer in small changes. I don't even want to contemplate my appearance if ordering my salad dressing on the side and dipping my fork wasn't a habit now (I love salads).

As the end of the year approaches, we may be starting to think of our New Year Resolutions (cue scary music), so I'm going to post my review in sections. I figure it would do you more good than waiting until I've finished the book....52 changes = 52 weeks. I'd like to get you started a lot sooner than that!

....off to read....

52 small changes made over 52 weeks. Sounds simple enough but one of the "small changes" is to declutter your living environment. Yikes! This one will take a year all by itself. I might be able to start very small and concentrate on my purse ;) Luckily, it's week 39 so we'll have some practice before we tackle this one.

Of course, one of the great things about this book is that you are encouraged to change the order around, spend more time if the change is hard for you, and if you already do it? There is "extra credit". Since declutter will be a tough one for me....it may be done last. (when I have no other obligations for several months/year)

Weeks read so far:
Week 1: Water
Week 2: Sleep
Week 3: Be more active
Week 4: Keep a Food Journal
Sound simple? It is. And it's not. For example, staying hydrated sounds easy enough, just drink water, but how much is enough? Just water? How about milk, juice, tea? Not only are these questions answered, they're explained. And if you already know these answers and feel you do this, your extra credit is to filter your water.

One of the hardest parts of following this program will be NOT jumping ahead and cramming two or three changes into each week.
1) Although there are countless changes you can make, the 52 changes presented in this book are those that will have the largest impact on creating a happier, healthier lifestyle.

2) Giving yourself a year to create this lifestyle affords you the ability to slowly integrate important changes over time, so they are more likely to stick for the long-term
I'm more of an instant gratification girl myself but after reading through just the first 4 weeks, I can more easily see why slow is the way to go.

There is an online assessment to take before you start your journey so you can see where you are starting from....all the easier to see where you're going.

Join me? I'll be hydrating this week. And, overlapping with a partial week 35, be better about taking my medication. Wow, already squeezing a second change in and it's only the first week!

....so ends part 1. I hope to have an update posted in December

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary review copy of this book without any obligation to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of the publisher.


52 Small Changes
One Year to a Happier, Healthier You
by Brett Blumenthal


publisher: AmazonEncore
January 3, 2012
ISBN 978-1612181394
Format: Paperback (8x8)
as my copy is an uncorrected proof, I do not know if the finished copy will be hardcover or not.
non-fiction, Health & Fitness, Self-Improvment
380 pages


Product Description:
This “how-to” manual for achieving a state of optimal health and wellness outlines fifty-two weeks of small, yet productive changes that readers can make to live a happier, healthier life. Why fifty-two? By making one small change each week over the course of one year, this will ultimately lead to the big change of living a healthier, happier lifestyle - because ultimately it is the small steps that make the most lasting difference, rather than trying to overhaul an entire lifetime’s worth of bad habits all at once!

Small Changes addresses all areas of well being, including nutrition, exercise, stress management, mental wellness, and even the health of one’s home environment. With weekly goals such as Taking Time to Stretch, Choosing Whole Grains, Spending Time in Nature, and Reducing Dust in Your Home, this enthusiastic guide to long-term wellness is a must-read for anyone ready to change their life for good.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Challenge - Christmas Spirit

The Christmas Spirit Reading Challenge
Nov 21 to Jan 6
hosted at The Christmas Spirit blog
sign-up post

Rules:
1. challenge will run from Monday, November 21, 2011 through Friday, January 6, 2011 (Twelfth Night or Epiphany)

2. cross over with other challenges is totally permitted AND encouraged!

3. These must be Christmas novels, books about Christmas lore, a book of Christmas short stories or poems, books about Christmas crafts, and for the first time...a children's Christmas books level!

4. Levels:
Candy Cane - read 1 book
Mistletoe - read 2-4 books
Christmas Tree - read 5 or 6 books (this is the fanatic level...LOL!)

*Additional levels:

Fa La La La Films - watch a bunch or a few Christmas movies...it's up to you!
Visions of Sugar Plums - read books with your children this season and share what you read

*additional levels are optional and must be done in addition to a reading level
5. the most important rule? Have fun!!!

There will be Mr. Linky's for reviews & a GIVEAWAY


The really sad thing is that I just finished TWO Christmas novels that would be perfect for this challenge. Christmas at Timberwoods and Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor.

I'm going for Candy Cane and Fa La La La Films

The Bite Before Christmas, To Santa with Love plus White Christmas, It's a Wonderful Life, Santa is Coming to Town. This should be a no stress challenge, the hardest part will be waiting for Nov 21!

edit: A Highlander for Christmas, So This Is Christmas


Books Read & Movies Watched

Book: Snow and Mistletoe by TC Blue - short story about a secret admirer at Christmas time

Book: Someone Special by TC Blue - novel about finding love while working as one of Santa's elves at the mall. There was a bunch of other stuff going on but they meet while working with the mall Santa and the book ends with I-love-yous Christmas morning.

Book: A Highlander for the Holidays by Janet Chapman - novel about the clan in Maine and one women who moves there to begin her life again. Every time I read one of these, I want to read them all. (recently bought another one in the series)

Movie: tried to watch It's a Wonderful Life. Our DVD was all wonky and I couldn't stand to watch through the static :(

Movie: next tried The Nightmare Before Christmas but you know when you want to read a book for a book report and you just aren't lovin' it? Yeah....

Movie: third times the charm! Oh, my gosh! Santa is a little black woman! Watched Call Me Claus with Whoopi Goldberg. I don't know who everyone else is but this is a great little quirky movie. Lucy's niece? GREAT voice :)

Netflix was streaming Jeff Dunham's Christmas Special....Peanut may be everyone's favorite and I do like him but I love Walter. It was an older show (still married) and he started out on the stage all by himself talking about his daughter putting gas in her car for the first time. Hilarious


~~Challenge Complete~~
December 8

I'm still going to need to write up a completed post but this will work for now (done)

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Happy Monday! and Give away

I hope those who celebrate Halloween had a safe night.

No school update at scheduling time

Two more chapters to read this week, and quizzes, plus start the next paper. sigh, why did I want to go back to school? The reasons have escaped me. I've discovered I'd rather cook than do homework and I don't like to cook!

Son has passed the test and is awaiting notification of an interview time (Electricians Union).

Hope everyone has plans for a great week.

giveaway at the end of the post ;)


Mailbox Monday is a place to share all the wonderful books that have come to live in your home– including paper books, e-books and audio books. Started by Marcia of The Printed Page, the mailbox is currently on tour. Check it out so you know where to go next month.

A big Thank You to Serena for hosting in October, the November co-hosts are Joy & Serena at Edgy Inspirational Romance (blog link, not post link).



Received for Review:
Bring Me Home for Christmas by Robyn Carr (and if you've been paying attention.....why yes, I did just buy this!)
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
18 Minutes by Peter Bregman
Red Alert by Stephen Leeb

Purchased:
Forbidden Heat by Opal Carew
went to Target again.....at least I left three of the books there ;)
If You Give a Girl a Viscount by Kieran Kramer
Kiss of Snow by Nalini Singh



kindle/ebooks:
Edge of Sight by Roxanne St. Claire
Owned by Sean Michael
Push by Sean Michael
The Zombie Project (Boxcar Children)
A One-Eyed Horse in a One-Horse Town by Julie Mahler Harris
What We Deserve by Kerry Freeman





What are you Reading?

is a weekly Monday meme hosted by Shelia at Book Journey. Post what you read last week and what you're planning to read this week then link to Shelia's post. Then visit, visit, visit! She has a comment contest going on each week tied to the meme.


Finished:
Gingerbread Cookie Murder
Snared
Owned
Bring Me Home for Christmas
Push
The Zombie Project (Boxcar Children)
A One-Eyed Horse in a One-Horse Town by Julie Mahler Harris
Cherry Pie
What We Deserve

Reading:
Live Free or Die
To Santa with Love
Gingerbread Cookie Murder
Snared
Owned
Bring Me Home for Christmas

Next up:
something from my "read this year" list
something from my "Need to Review" list ;)

Reviewed:
Bring Me Home for Christmas

Need to Review-keep a running total and cross off as completed:
(this list is way too long and if they've been reviewed I didn't label them correctly!)

Spin the Plate, short story (current read)
A Modern Witch (current read)
Kekula (current read)
The Man Who Loved Books Too Much
True North
Whiskey Gulf
A Circle of Souls
Benny & Shrimp
The Right Side of the Tracks
Second Chance

~*~FREE BOOK~*~

I received Bring Me Home for Christmas to review the week after I bought it. I've read it. Reviewed it. Don't need two copies. Would you like one? Tell me in the comments and leave an email. I'll do a random drawing and announce the winner next week.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Challenge - Whittle Down Your Perpetual TBR List


I feel like this is what my books would look like if I actually owned all the titles on my perpetual challenges list!

I've got to cross some of them off my list, I started some of these in 2009 and feel like there has been no progress

1. List your perpetual challenges.
2. pick a book for each challenge to read in 2012. Overlaps are okay.



~*~Challenges~*~
100 Best Novels first goal
101 Fantasy Books (book list)
Banned/Challenged Books, update page!
Card, Orson Scott
Disney Literature
PB&J (P.icture B.ooks & J.uvenile) update page, keep reading & update as you go!
John Sandford's Prey series (book list)
PLUS, Redwall, Landover & Cedar Cove!

~*~Books to Read~*~
311 Pelican Court - Cedar Cove
Brave New World - 100 Best Novels & Banned/Challenged
Eyes of Prey - Prey
Hidden Empire - Orson Scott Card
Hunger Games - 101 Fantasy Books & Banned/Challenged
Magic Kingdom for Sale-Sold - Landover
The Once and Future King by T.H. White - Disney Lit
Picture Books & Juvenile
Redwall - Redwall

~*~Books Read~*~
Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey - PB&J
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - PB&J, 101 Fantasy Books, Banned/Challenged
Dragonsinger by Anne McCaffrey - PB&J
Dragondrums by Anne McCaffrey - PB&J
The Ice Dragon by George R.R. Martin - PB&J
The Lost Gate by Orson Scott Card - Cardathon



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011
Disclaimer

In accordance to the FTC guidelines, I must state that I make no monetary gains from my reviews or endorsements here on Book Dragon's Lair. All books I review are either borrowed, purchased by me, given as a gift, won in some kind of contest, or received in exchange for an honest review.