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!)

Friday, November 30, 2012

Cruisin' thru the Cozies Reading Challenge


Cruisin' thru the Cozies
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Yvonne of Socrates' Cozy Cafe

Sign- up here





Requirements:
  • choose your level (see below)
  • The challenge runs from January 1, 2013 and ends December 31, 2013
  • You don’t have to choose your books in advance. If you do, you can change your list at any time during the year.
  • Books can overlap with other challenges
  • Books can be in any format – paper, audio, ebooks…it all counts!
  • You don’t have to post a review, but I’m sure others would love to know about the books you are reading and may even want to add it to their reading lists
  • Take the button above, put it on your blog and post about the challenge. Then add your name to Mr. Linky at Socrates’ Book Review Blog. Please use the link of your challenge post, not the link to your home page.
  • There will be a link for signing up, completed reviews and one for wrap up posts.
NOTE: If you don’t have a blog and want to participate, that’s fine. You don’t have to have a blog, just post in the comments section as you finish books. If you belong to a site like Goodreads and review the books there, that’s fine too. Just leave us the link.

Levels:
  • Level 1 – Snoop – Read at least 6 books
  • Level 2 – Investigator – Read 7-12 books
  • Level 3 – Super Sleuth – Read 13 or more books
 I'm going for Snoop and hope to read at least 6 cozy mysteries. Review too?!
Books Read
1. That Old Flame of Mine by J. J. Cook
2. A Timely Vision by Joyce and Jim Lavene
3. Cat Trick by Sofie Kelly



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Mind Voyages Reading Challenge


Mind Voyages Reading Challenge
2013

hosted by Robin of My Two Blessings at 52 Books in 52 Weeks

There is no real sign up link but more info (and links!) can be found here

Mind Voyages is a science fiction/fantasy challenge to explore the hugo and nebula winners, take side trips through the different decades reading the nominees, check out Philip K. Dick and Robert Heinlein. Also, since I can't possibly imagine a reading challenge without exploring new releases that come out in 2011, we have the all inclusive Pluto challenge.

You really need to read the post to get the full scope of the challenge. One of the hard parts for me will be reading books I haven't read before and/or finding one I want to read! I tried this once before and failed spectacularly, let's try it again for 2013.

I'm going for Pluto and hope to read one from each voyage.


Moon Voyage : Read at least 6 winners on the Hugo Winners List
Sling shot back to Earth : Read at least 3 winners on the Nebula Winner's List
Venus Voyage: Philip K. Dick Quest - Read at least 2 of his books
Mercury Voyage : Robert Heinlein Quest - Read at least 2 of his books
Mars Voyage : Read at least 6 winners on the Hugo List and take a side trip through the 21st century and read at least 4 nominees.
Jupiter Voyage : Go side tripping 90's Style
Saturn : Go Side Tripping 80's Style
Uranus : Go Side Tripping 70's Style
Neptune Voyage : Go Side Tripping through the 50's and 60's
The I'm going to Pluto because Pluto is still a planet as far as I'm concerned Voyage: Mix it up, choose the number of books you want to read from each voyage, include some new books you pick up along the way and enjoy the ride.


Books Read
Moon:
Sling shot:
Venus:
Mercury:
Mars:
Jupiter:
Saturn:
Uranus:
Neptune:




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Location Reading Challenge




Where are You Reading?
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Sheila at Book Journey

Sign- up here

There is a ton of info on the sign-up post but basically....keep track of the location of the books you read.


I totally failed on the map part of this challenge for 2012 and am not even going to try for 2013. I am going to keep track of multiple books within the same state/country.



 Book Obsessed is hosting
 50 States again for 2013!





Books Read
Alabama -
Alaska - Moosed-Up by Tiffinie Helmer
Arizona - Lust Emergency by Morticia Knight
Arkansas -
California - A Fool's Gold Christmas by Susan Mallery
Colorado - Miracle Road by Emily March
Connecticut -
Delaware -
Florida - White Knight and Black Fur by Joyee Flynn
Georgia - Killing Floor by Lee Child
Hawaii -
Idaho - Watch Me by Carol Lynne
Illinois -
Indiana -
Iowa -
Kansas -
Kentucky -
Louisiana -
Maine - The Heart of a Hero by Janet Chapman
Maryland -
Massachusetts -
Michigan - Worth the Weight by Mara Jacobs
Minnesota -
Mississippi -
Missouri -
Montana - Chaps and Hope by Bailey Bradford
Nebraska - Spits and Bellows by Joyee Flynn
Nevada -
New Hampshire -
New Jersey -
New Mexico - . . . . . . (kindle) Welcome to Last Chance by Cathleen Armstrong
New York - Stockholm Syndrome by Sage Marlowe
North Carolina - Sand Castle Bay by Sherryl Woods
North Dakota -
Ohio - One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand
Oklahoma -
Oregon - The Wanderer by Robyn Carr
Pennsylvania -
Rhode Island -
South Carolina -
South Dakota - . . . . . . (kindle) Sweet and Wild by Cerian Herbert
Tennessee - The Carpenter and the Actor by RJ Scott
Texas - Fatal Error by Colleen Thompson
Utah -
Vermont - Back Home by RJ Scott
Virginia - Home Sweet Home by T. A. Chase
Washington - William's House by Amber Kell
West Virginia - Amethyst Moon by Ann Mayburn
Wisconsin -
Wyoming - Threadbare Gypsy Souls by T. A. Chase

India - A Sticky Wicket in Bollywood by T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes
France - Chasing the King of the Mountains by T.A. Chase and Devon Rhodes
Antarctica - Subterranean by James Rollins
Australia - Misplaced Princess by Mari Carr, Lexxie Couper

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Color Coded Reading Challenge


Color Coded
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Bev at My Reader's Block

Sign- up here



 Requirements:
  • Read NINE books from specific categories
  • Any book read from January 1 through December 31, 2013 will count
  • Crossovers with other challenges are fine.
  • Everyone who completes all nine categories will be entered in a year-end drawing for a book-related prize package
  • Please post about the challenge on your blog. Sign ups accepted until Nov 30, 2013
  • Please sign up using the Linky. Give your name & blog (Example: Bev @ My Reader's Block) and use a direct link to your challenge post as your url. Please don't connect to just your home page. Links to a list on GoodReads or other social media sites are also acceptable.
  • No blog or GoodReads site? That's okay. Post a comment here to announce your entry into the challenge and when you have completed the challenge just post a comment at the review site with a list of your books.
  • Please use the Review Page to post review links and a final wrap-up post when you finish the challenge (coming soon)

Specific Categories:
  • A book with "Blue" or any shade of Blue (Turquoise, Aquamarine, Navy, etc) in the title.
  • A book with "Red" or any shade of Red (Scarlet, Crimson, Burgandy, etc) in the title.
  • A book with "Yellow" or any shade of Yellow (Gold, Lemon, Maize, etc.) in the title.
  • A book with "Green" or any shade of Green (Emerald, Lime, Jade, etc) in the title.
  • A book with "Brown" or any shade of Brown (Tan, Chocolate, Beige, etc) in the title.
  • A book with "Black" or any shade of Black (Jet, Ebony, Charcoal, etc) in the title.
  • A book with "White" or any shade of White (Ivory, Eggshell, Cream, etc) in the title.
  • A book with any other color in the title (Purple, Orange, Silver, Pink, Magneta, etc.).
  • A book with a word that implies color (Rainbow, Polka-dot, Plaid, Paisley, Stripe, etc.).

Books Read

It's Not Easy Being Green and Other Things to Consider
by Jim Henson, The Muppets and Friends

White Knight and Black Fur 
by Joyee Flynn

Black List by Brad Thor


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Foodies Reading Challenge


Foodies
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Vicki from I'd Rather Be Reading at the Beach

Challenge has it's own blog! Sign- up here



 Requirements:
  • Decide how many food books you want to read in 2013
  • Grab the challenge button and write a post on your blog so we can spread the word. No blog? That’s okay. Sign up in the comments section
  • After you read each book for the challenge, come back here and tell us about it. Click on the correct category for your book (on the menu bar) and post the link to your review
  • The challenge runs from January 1 through December 31, 2013
  • You don’t need a pre-selected list of books
  • It’s okay to cross over with other challenges.
  • Any book format is allowed (print, audio, ebook)
Levels:
  • Short-Order Cook: 1 to 3 books
  • Pastry Chef: 4 to 8 books
  • Sous-Chef: 9 to 13 books
  • Chef de Cuisine: 14 to 18
  • Cordon-Bleu Chef: More than 19

I'm going for Pastry Chef and hope to read and review 4(-8) food books
Books Read
1. The ABC's of Freezer Cooking by K.M. Logan
2. One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand
3. Without Reservations J.L. Langley*
4. The Groom Wanted Seconds by Shirley Jump


* come on, don't you make reservations for dinner? ;-)



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

2013 TBR challenge(s)


Mount TBR
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Bev at My Reader's Block

Sign- up here

Basic requirements: No books from 2013, purchased or gifts. No library books, re-reads or ARCs. There are several levels (12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 75, 100, 150+) corresponding with a mountains.

I'm going for Mt. Vancouver and hope to read 36 books.


Check out the sign up post for more info and join us!



Books Read
1. Wicked Gift by Sean Michael
2. The Missing Monarch by Rachelle McCalla
3. Moosed-Up
4. The Reluctant Vampire
5. To Tame a Dragon by Megan Bryce
6. Frozen Prospects by Dean Murray
7. A Lady Risks All by Stephanie Laurens
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
~one-third completed!~
date
13.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

What an Animal VI



What an Animal VI
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Yvonne at Socrates' Book Reviews

Sign- up here


There is lots of info on the sign up post but basically, read six books during the year. Must have one of the following requirements...


 Requirements:
  • there is an animal in the title of the book

  • there is an animal on the cover of the book

  • an animal plays a major role in the book

  • a main character is (or turns into) an animal (define that however you'd like).
...yes, there are only four requirements so there will be overlap

Books Read

Title: Moosed-Up by Tiffinie Helmer
Cover: It's Not Easy Being Green by Jim Henson
Major Role: The Heart of a Hero by Janet Chapman
Main Character: Spits and Bellows by Joyee Flynn (shifters)
5. Title: To Tame a Dragon by Megan Bryce
6. Main Character: White Knight and Black Fur by Joyee Flynn (shifters)

~ Challenge Complete ~
April 28


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

What's in a Name 6



What's in a Name 6
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted at Beth Fish Reads
Sign- up here




Between January 1 and December 31, 2013, read one book in each of the following categories:
  • A book with up or down (or equivalent) in the title 
  • A book with something you'd find in your kitchen in the title 
  • A book with a party or celebration in the title 
  • A book with fire (or equivalent) in the title 
  • A book with an emotion in the title A book with lost or found (or equivalent) in the title
  • A book with lost or found (or equivalent) in the title:
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.


Books Read:
1. up or down (or equivalent)
Moosed-Up
by Tiffinie Helmer 

2. something you'd find in your kitchen
One Day in Apple Grove
by C. H. Admirand 

3. party or celebration
A Fool's Gold Christmas
by Susan Mallery 

4. fire (or equivalent)
Trace of Fever
by Lori Foster 

5. an emotion
Edge of Desire
by Stephanie Laurens

6. lost or found (or equivalent)
The Wanderer
by Robyn Carr 



~ Challenge Complete ~
June 13
 



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

2013 Reading Challenges

[edit: I got tired of clicking again so I added the links to past challenge pages here.

2009 :: 2010 :: 2011 :: 2012
end edit]

It's that time of year again! I'm noticing more and more new challenges popping up for and decided to be better prepared or I'd go overboard like 2012 (over 50? yikes!). I didn't plan on joining so many so I need to be very careful as we head into the end of the year. {edited: so much for being careful!}

There have been so many great challenges offered in the past that I just want to join them all. There is a small problem. I don't read enough! Never thought I'd say it but it's true.

This year, I'll need to take into consideration three things: I want to challenge myself, help advertise challenges, and have a small chance of completing them!  Dropping favorites will be difficult but I really enjoyed taking time off and plan to do so again in 2013. So far it's just a link list in my sidebar but who knows how far it will go.

{another edit: I know I won't be completing most of these so I've upped the levels I'm going for}

Nov 5: 2014 Challenges parking spot

5-year, 10-year, and Perpetual Challenges

 2013 Challenges

Challenges will be listed alphabetically regardless of when I joined. The name will link to my post about the challenge which should include the who, what, when and why info.

Off-Topic
12k Challenge ~ fitness . . . failed
Wear it or Toss it ~ shoes
91 Day De-Clutter Challenge

Keeping track of all of them

150+  part two part three  plus(151+) plus! part two(201+) ~ 150+ isbn or equivant
Let Me Count the Ways ~ 10,001+ pages . . . May 24: Challenge Complete
Read-a-Latte ~ 75 books . . . Jun 14: Challenge Complete
Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks ~ 52 books . . . Challenge Complete


Keeping track by page number

In the Middle ~ 15+ books 300-400 pages . . . Jun 27: Challenge Complete
Mammoth Books ~  12 books at least 450 pages (book length page)
Outdo Yourself part two ~ 200 books (100+ pages)
Chunky Reads ~ 4 books (500+ pages)
Quick Fix ~  20+ books under 300 pages. April 29: Challenge Completed (book length page)

To-be-Read Pile . . . ~*~ TBR page ~*~
(purchased prior to 1-1-13)
Double Dog Dare ~ six weeks (1-1/2-11) . . . challenge over
Dusty, TBR for a year ~ 12 books
Mount TBR ~ 36 books
An Embarrassment of Riches ~ 50 books


101 Fantasy Project ~ 101 books in 10 years from Aug 15

A to Z (titles) ~ 26 books . . . Sep 25: Challenge completed

ARC ~ Minimum of 18 books

ARC Clean Sweep ~ (May) . . . May 31: Challenge over

Back to School ~ 2 "learn something" books (Aug and Sep)

Back to the Classics ~ 6 books

Better Late Than Never ~ ARCs, the older ones! (Oct-Dec)

Book Buying Ban ~ January. Failed Jan 12.

Bout of Books 6.0 ~ 4 books/1,000 pages (Jan 7 - Jan 13) . . . Jan 13: Challenge over
Bout of Books 7.0 ~ 4 books/1,000 pages (May 13 - May 19) . . . May 19: Challenge over
Bout of Books 8.0 ~ 4 books/1,000 pages (Aug 19 - Aug 25) . . . Aug 25: Challenge over

Chill Baby, Chill (to Mar 20) - here ~

Criminal Plots III - 6 books

Christmas Spirit ~ to Jan 6
Christmas Spirit - here ~ Read-a-Thon (11-22/11-24) and Challenge (11-22/1-6)

Color Coded ~ 9 books

Colorful ~ 9 books with reviews

Contemporary Romance ~ 10 books . . . Jun 12: Challenge Complete

Cruisin' thru the Cozies ~ 6 books

Clean Out Your eReaders ~ November, free or nearly free, with reviews

Dewey's 24-Hour Read-a-Thon ~ Oct 12

Dog Days of Summer Read-a-Thon ~ 48 hours beginning 8-17 at 8 a.m. est

eBooks, part twopart three ~ 150 books . . . Nov 14: Challenge complete

Fall into Reading ~

Foodies Read ~ 4 (- 8) books

Genre/Sub-Genre ~15 books, can start 12-1

Genre Variety ~ 6 books

Gothic September ~ at least one Gothic . . . over 

Ho Ho Ho Holiday Read-a-Thon ~ 11-7/11-11 . . . over (failed)

Library Books ~ 36 books

M/M Romance,  part two ~ 40 books, working on 80+

Men in Uniform ~ 16+

Mind Voyages ~ 9 books

Monthly Key Words ~ 12 books . . . 8-31: hosting blog is gone 11-5: found it

Monthly Mix-up Mania ~ 74 books in 2 years

Nerdy Non-Fiction ~ 6 books from 3 categories

Night Huntress Read-a-Long ~ Nov - Jan

Nightwalkers ~ 1.5 books (will finish series)

Non-Fiction Adventure ~ 50 books in 5 years from Aug 15

Paranormal ~ 12 books

Participation Challenge ~ Jun 1 to Dec 15 (Tweet, review links, Trivia Questions, Mini-Challenges)

R.I.P. VIII ~ 4 books September-October, can start 8-25 . . . over

Reading Challenge Addict ~ enter and complete 11-15 challenges

Romance ~ 5 books with reviews. February 25: challenge complete

Romantic Suspense ~ 13 books

The Sci-fi Excperience ~ at least one book

Second Chances ~ 3 books

Self-Published ~ 5 books with reviews

Spring Reading Thing ~ Mar 20 to Jun 20 . . . Jun 20: Challenge over

What an Animal ~ 6 books. . . . Apr 28: challenge complete

What's in a Name ~ 6 books . . .  Jun 13: Challenge Complete

Where are you reading?/50 States ~ 50 states plus

Wicked Wildfire Read-a-Thon ~ Jun 7 to Jun 14 . . . Jan 14: Challenge over

Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon ~ Jan 21 to Jan 27 . . . Jan 27: Challenge over

Witches & Witchcraft ~ 1 - 5 books






copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Thoughts on...The Paternity Test

A fiction book that read like truth.

I feel a little like a voyeur. Having a child to save a marriage can be fraught with minefields then add in needing a surrogate? Yikes! The thoughts and feeling expressed in The Paternity Test felt too private. The flip side is that I feel privileged to have been invited into the process. The search within and the search for a surrogate.

Plus, there's that whole gay thing. Yup, the marriage needed saving is a gay one. Would a woman really be willing to have a child for a gay couple?

If you are absolutely opposed to anything gay, do not read this book. (or blog for that matter, I review/read gay books all the time). The wonderful thing is that so far, the couple being gay doesn't seem to be the story. The aching for a child, needing medical help to do so, the infidelity. These things are not exclusively gay, they are human.

I've read thru five cycles and am looking forward to finishing the book.

back to reading...

Pat? What are you doing!

I feel betrayal coming and need to put it aside for a bit...




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 BN.com and amazon.com.


The Paternity Test
by Michael Lowenthal

University of Wisconsin Press
ISBN: 9780299290009
Publication date: September 2012
Hardcover (also ebook)
Contemporary Fiction/Gay
18+ (maybe 16)
277 pages~my copy

Grade:


Product Description:
Having a baby to save a marriage—it’s the oldest of clichés. But what if the marriage at risk is a gay one, and having a baby involves a surrogate mother?

Pat Faunce is a faltering romantic, a former poetry major who now writes textbooks. A decade into his relationship with Stu, an airline pilot from a fraught Jewish family, he fears he’s losing Stu to other men—and losing himself in their “no rules” arrangement. Yearning for a baby and a deeper commitment, he pressures Stu to move from Manhattan to Cape Cod, to the cottage where Pat spent boyhood summers.

As they struggle to adjust to their new life, they enlist a surrogate: Debora, a charismatic Brazilian immigrant, married to Danny, an American carpenter. Gradually, Pat and Debora bond, drawn together by the logistics of getting pregnant and away from their spouses. Pat gets caught between loyalties—to Stu and his family, to Debora, to his own potent desires—and wonders: is he fit to be a father?

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Read-a-Thon at Book Drunkard





Week Long Read-a-Thon
Dec 2 - Dec 8


hosted by Book Drunkard

More information can be found here

So, it’s pretty simple.
  • Sign up on this post with the number of books you plan on reading during the week of December 2 – 8.  
  • You can even leave a list of books you’re reading!  If enough people sign up, there will be a prize, so tell your friends!  
  • Leave a link to your read-a-thon blog post (if you have one) but you don’t need one to participate.
  • The more the merrier!  Let’s get together, cheer each other on and try to read our reading goals before the end of 2012.
I have several challenges left to complete and while I know that most of them will be unfinished, it would be nice to get a couple more checked off.

311 Pelican Court by Debbie Macomber
Redwall by Brian Jacques
Eyes of Prey by John Sandford
Room by ...
Two to finish The Eclectic Reader (Literary Fiction - The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and Classic - The Hound of the Baskervilles)
Color Coded: red, yellow, green, brown, black
Getting Lost in a Comfortable Book (The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Princess Bride, and two others)
In His Stead by Judith Sanders, The Book Lover by Maryann McFadden and 10 other ARCs
Christmas!


Goals
one book read and reviewed
one Christmas book
one other from list
two fun ones? check.

Books Read
fun: The Injustice of Being by Carol Lynne
fun: Griff and Ash by D. J. Manly
unlisted. . . finishes a challenge: Death by a Honeybee by Abigail Keam


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

1st reading challenge of 2013!



Genre/Sub-Genre
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Gina at Book Dragon's Lair

Sign- up here



 Requirements:
  • read three books from each genre
  • each book must be a different sub-genre (sub-genres can be found here at Writer's Digest)
  • each book counts only once for this challenge
  • books may overlap with other challenges
  • any format allowed (print, ebook, audio)
  • reviews are not necessary but a list of books read is.
  • a blog is not necessary, just comment that you want to join in
Books Read

Romance
1. erotic - Wicked Gift by Sean Michael
2. Christian - The Missing Monarch by Rachelle McCalla
3. Historical - The Edge of Desire by Stephanie Laurens

Horror
1. quiet - The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
2. thriller - Subterranean by James Rollins
3.
young adult - Virals by Kathy Reichs? (own)
young adult - Undead by Kirsty McKay 
Sci-fi - London Eye by Tim Lebbon 

Science Fiction/Fantasy
1. Aliens - They Walk Among Us by T. A. Chase
2. children's fantasy - The Extra-Ordinary Princess by Carolyn Q. Ebbitt
3. paranormal - The Mystery Woman by Amanda Quick 

Game-Related Fantasy - Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis (own/review book)

Mystery/Crime
1. cozy - That Old Flame of Mine by J. J. Cook 
2. thriller - The Enemy by Lee Child
3.
romance - Change of Fortune by Jen Turano
historical - The Beekeeper’s Apprentice by Laurie R. King

Thriller/Suspense
1. espionage - Black List by Brad Thor
2. medical - Plague by H.W. "Buzz" Bernard
3. romantic - Crystal Gardens by Amanda Quick
medical - Plague by Buzz Bernard (own)
psychological - The Profiler's Daughter by P.M. Steffen (own ebook)



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, November 24, 2012

2013 Sub-Genre Reading Challenge

I always thought that I read "almost everything" but even after several years of blogging, reviews, and challenges I realized that I still limit myself when it comes to the sub-genres. Of course, I can't just read more sub-genres....I've got to make a challenge out it! ;-) 


Genre/Sub-Genre
Reading Challenge
2013


hosted by Gina at Book Dragon's Lair




 Requirements:
  • read three books from each genre
  • each book must be a different sub-genre (sub-genres can be found here at Writer's Digest)
  • each book counts only once for this challenge
  • books may overlap with other challenges
  • any format allowed (print, ebook, audio)
  • reviews are not necessary but a list of books read is.
  • a blog is not necessary, just comment that you want to join in
  • *addition* if you do have a blog, write up a post and link up
There are TWO levels:
  • read two from each main genre
  • read three form each main genre

Now for the main genres. . .

Romance
Horror
Thriller/Suspense
Science Fiction/Fantasy
Mystery/Crime


This is not how I usually think of them but this is how Writer's Digest has broken them down. Check out the sub-genres descriptions and it will make sense.

One more requirement....go ahead a start on the 1st and get a head start on your reading!




let me know if I need to type out all the descriptions!

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Thoughts on . . . enchanted by starlight by Tina L. Hook

At first I thought this was going to read a little like a train wreck, a disaster but too fascinating you can't help but look. I kept reading and realized it more more like driving in traffic. Smooth lane changes between some of the characters, brakes before changing with others.

I'm loving the interactions and interweaving of lives, and am too tempted to read the ending!

back to reading. . .

(will update with final grade and age range when finished)


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 author and amazon.


enchanted by starlight
by Tina L. Hook

CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
ISBN 978-1470113216
Trade Paperback (also Kindle)
Women's Fiction
336 pages


Author's website


Product Description:
Be careful what you wish for…
While they don't yet know it, Grace, Skylar and Alina are connected by destiny when an enchanted comet crosses the night sky. As their most secret ambitions ignite, their ordinary lives take a magical detour down a powerful but dangerous path.
Grace, emerging from her dejected childhood, develops the power to make men fall in love with her. Skylar leaves her impoverished past behind and pursues the social status she has always longed for. Without dreams of her own, Alina covets the power to unravel other lives and seeks revenge. As they crash into and slip away from each other in a cycle of envy, deception and love lost, these three women are forced to look deeper into her own hearts for the true meaning of enchantment.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, November 17, 2012

links to Challenge Pages

Every year, I've posted all the reading challenges attempted. As I hope to continue another five years, the header was getting crowded. Here are the links to each year's list of reading challenges attempted and completed/failed/given up on.

2009 :: 2010 :: 2011 :: 2012 :: 2013 




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Thoughts on...Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes

I don't usually read reviews on books I'm going to review but I couldn't help but read a snippet that was posted on the book's website. "Blows Fifty Shades out of the Water..." Now I have no desire to read Fifty Shades so I'm not sure if this little snippet is a good thing or not. Time will tell.

Off to read....

I have very mixed feeling about this title. There were brilliant bits of philosophy and a heart stopping rescue even before the kidnapping. The kidnapping itself was so slick no one, except Corey of course, had an inkling something was wrong. Even when there was no radio contact and the ship was late.

Flaws: I was having trouble keeping up with the fact that the time setting of the book was not recent. For example, Seattle waterfront that "used to be a shantytown of makeshift craft...were being run off by multilevel, built-to-the-hilt, wall-to-wall floating condos" sounded current then the third of the best friends gets drafted for the Vietnam War. 

There were several places where there were no spaces... andIreallyhopethatiscorrected...

Sex: Most of the sex flowed well, just like any other mainstream novel, nothing kinky going on here. Some seems added just to have a sex scene. None of that bothered me as much as three pages of descriptive sex between between teens. Call me a prude if you want but it wasn't the sex, which was quite vanilla as far as sex goes, it was the high school freshman part!

Corey grows up in chapter one. Has sex in chapter two. He gets married in chapter three...

Gems: I absolutely loved Augie and think every child needs one in their life. Lloyd Wolf was an angel with his timing and knowledge. Also, someone I'd want in my corner. The philosophy of Jasmine and Jennifer could be made into a small inspirational book. The relationship between Jennifer and Corey shines. The teamwork of Corey's crew made me want to book a fishing trip.

The book didn't really grab me until the end of Chapter Ten. Still, it wasn't my complete attention. That didn't happen until pages 231. Was there too much back story? I don't know what could have been left out. Maybe I was focused on other stuff, I was vacationing after all and working on a deadline.

The books ending was all I was expecting before I started reading and I am glad I finished it. Would I read the author again? Yes, but it would be a library check out. Perfect Bait may have started as a D+ but it ended as a B and I feel that's a pretty good improvement.


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 Barnes and Noble, amazon and my copy of the book.


Perfect Bait
previously released as Flawed
by Michael Fowlkes

publisher: Thunderbird Press
ISBN: 978-0974240657
Publication date: May 2012
Trade Paperback
Fiction/Erotic Romance
Mature Audiences!
392 pages
Grade: C

Book's website


Product Description:
The richly-textured settings of Seattle's commercial waterfront, San Diego's topless beaches and the breathtaking waters off Cabo San Lucas create the backdrop for a riveting story of love, romance and betrayal, as a young couple find themselves in a fight for their lives having been set up by the FBI as perfect bait.

Now, that's what it says at amazon and Barnes and Noble but the back of my book?
The richly-textured settings of Seattle's commercial waterfront, San Diego's topless beaches, and the breathtaking waters off Cabo San Lucas create the backdrop for a riveting story of kidnapping, rape, and murder.

Born and raised in Seattle, Corey Phillips is new to Southern Calfornia, but with his devoted and beautiful girlfriend Jennifer by his side, their boat "Vintage" has become one of the top charter operations in the area.

However, not all those seeking trips offshore are looking for fish. Young girls are disappearing. Local authorities hope the FBI can put the pieces together, but nothing fits-until Corey and Jennifer become the perfect bait and find themselves in a fight for their lives.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Well, this is embarrassing. . .

If you're reading this sentence, I didn't have (free) internet access while on vacation. I should be home later today so please read what the book's about then check back late tonight for what I thought about it.

A word of warning. This book is for a "Mature Audience". I have no idea, at this time, what that really means but I would expect it from the back of my book, not necessarily from the description at other online sites. I look forward to seeing which is more true to life.



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 Barnes and Noble, amazon and my copy of the book.


Perfect Bait
previously released as Flawed
by Michael Fowlkes

publisher: Thunderbird Press
ISBN: 978-0974240657
Publication date: May 2012
Trade Paperback
Fiction/Erotic Romance
18+
392 pages
Grade: 

Book's website


Product Description:
The richly-textured settings of Seattle's commercial waterfront, San Diego's topless beaches and the breathtaking waters off Cabo San Lucas create the backdrop for a riveting story of love, romance and betrayal, as a young couple find themselves in a fight for their lives having been set up by the FBI as perfect bait.

Now, that's what it says at amazon.com, and Barnes and Noble but the back of my book?
The richly-textured settings of Seattle's commercial waterfront, San Diego's topless beaches, and the breathtaking waters off Cabo San Lucas create the backdrop for a riveting story of kidnapping, rape, and murder.

Born and raised in Seattle, Corey Phillips is new to Southern Calfornia, but with his devoted and beautiful girlfriend Jennifer by his side, their boat "Vintage" has become one of the top charter operations in the area.

However, not all those seeking trips offshore are looking for fish. Young girls are disappearing. Local authorities hope the FBI can put the pieces together, but nothing fits-until Corey and Jennifer become the perfect bait and find themselves in a fight for their lives.

sound intriguing? I certainly hope it is.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Christmas Spirit Reading Challenge

How was I supposed to NOT do this challenge? I read Christmas books year 'round and love re-reading them during the Holidays. She has a great button for this year but I was having trouble saving it :- Thanks Michelle, for hosting again! As a side note...I didn't find this one on A Novel Challenge, I follow the Christmas Spirit blog
 
The Christmas Spirit Reading Challenge

Nov 19 to Jan 6
hosted at The Christmas Spirit blog
sign-up post





Rules:
1. challenge will run from Monday, November 19, 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


I'm going for . . .
  Mistletoe and Fa La La La Films

I've recently purchased two Christmas-y books and haven't read them yet! Darn, now I have to wait lol

Books Read & Movies Watched

Book: My Kind of Christmas by Robyn Carr
Book: Lone Star by Josh Lanyon
~Mistletoe complete~
November 30
movie: Undercover Christmas
Book: Mistletoe Mine by Emily March (an Eternity Springs novella)
Book: Wicked Gift by Sean Michael (1st book of 2013)
Book: A Fool's Gold Christmas by Susan Mallery 

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Books Read in 2012. . . .

November Recap

212. Seduced by the Wolf by Terry Spear

213. Cardio Core 4x4 by Jay Cardiello

214. Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes

215. Every Rose has His Thorne by Sean Michael

215. The Center of Earth and Sky by Sean Michael

216. Rescue My Heart by Jill Shalvis

217. My Kind of Christmas by Robyn Carr

218. Going Down Hard by KyAnn Waters

219. Lone by Rowan McBride

220. Her Surprise Sister by Marta Perry

221. No Going Home by T.A. Chase

222. Home of His Own by T.A. Chase

223. Wishing for a Home by T.A. Chase

224. Lone Star by Josh Lanyon

225. Fireflies by Ally Blue


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Unplugged Plans




Gonna be Unplugged for a while.

I haven't been present much because of that darn serial. Now that I'm caught up with it and have come up for air....yikes! I've got three books to review in November, a HUGE pile to finish before the end of the year, and more vacation plans!

So, um, I'll be back to link up reviews but looks like that's all I'll be posting. Plus, I should stay away while everyone is posting challenges for next year!

I'm hoping to be back by the end of the month but it isn't looking good so...










I hope everyone has a GREAT month ;-)

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Monday, November 5, 2012

Happy Monday

Weekly report of last week's activities, reading and new books in the house....

Last week:

Monday -sick. yuk.

Tuesday -still sick but hydrating and medicating.

Wednesday -Feel great! Our church has a "Trunk 'n Treat" for Halloween. Games and food inside then the kids circle the parking lot (multiple times) for candy. Someone had peeled a watermelon then carved it to look like a brain.

Thursday -

Friday -

Saturday -

Sunday - wait, it's Monday? Yikes, four days chained to my laptop planning an upcoming vacation, working on my schedule and reading an ongoing serial (I did purchase the first book in the series so I know that the first chapters (1-14) are 310 pages in print. I'm currently on chapter 299. I think I started this week on chapter 145. So, yeah. I've spent way too much time on this!)


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; print, electronic and audio. Started by Marcia of The Printed Page, the mailbox is currently on tour. Check it out so you know where to go next month.

Thank you to Kristen at BookNAround for hosting in September.

Thanks to October's host at Mailbox Monday.
I'm not sure who is hosting for November, I'm posting before they do


Received for Review:
The K Street Affair by Mari Passananti


Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:



Purchased/delivered:
Ruin by Orson Scott Card
In This Land: The Purple Book, Volume One
A Winter Wonderland anthology
A Cowboy for Christmas by Lori Wilde

added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)


Also went shopping through the free section, added a bunch then clicked Pin It
(still not finished pinning all of them)



Current Library books at the house:
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres
The Waterless Sea by Kate Constable
Demon Can't Help It by Kathy Love ~ returned unfinished
October Mourning by Leslea Newman
Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
The Skinny Rules by Bob Harper


2-week total body turnaround   / Freytag, Chris
Cardio core 4 x 4 : the 20 minute, no-gym workout that will transform your body!   / Cardiello, Jay
The Catswold portal   / Murphy, Shirley Rousseau
Head over heels   / Shalvis, Jill ~ ahhh, need to return, I've already read it!

and, am currently #241 on the waiting list for The Casual Vacancy



What are you Reading?


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:
sigh.  Finished nothing, see Sunday (above)

Books stacked by my reading chair (some most not actively reading but I haven't given up on them, yet):
Code Blood by Kurt Kamm
Noah by Jacquelyn Frank ~ ebook
Seduced by the Wolf by Terry Spear ~ ebook 
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Cut, Crop and Die by Joanna Campbell Slan ~ ebook
The Bro-Magnet by Lauren Baratz-Logsted ~ ebook
Circle of Seven by Bryan Davis
Brightest Kind of Darkness by P.T. Michelle ~ ebook
Big Kitty by Claire Donally
When the Cookie Crumbles by Virginia Lowell
The Last Patriot by Brad Thor
Power Down by Ben Coes
Double the Heat, anthology
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres
Dial C for For Chihuahua by Waverly Curtis
Witch Way to Murder by Shirley Damsgaard
The Skinny Rules by Bob Harper
Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes 


Next up:
got to finish up my still reading list!
all of my library check-outs
Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes

Reviewed:

Did Not Finish, may try again later:



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Just how life-like is fiction?

Sometimes a book draws me in so well that when I finish reading, it takes a bit for me to come back to myself.

I often tell people, "one of the books I read had a situation like that and the characters..."

Or maybe, "my knowledge is only as good as the author's research but..."

Now I'm reading a book that begins in Seattle's waterfront. The main character lives on a boat in "what used to be a shantyown of makeshift craft, most of which were seemingly kept afloat by only their dock lines, were being run off by multilevel, built-to-the-hilt, wall-to-wall floating condos....Seattle's new houseboats were anything but boats; the new generations of occupants were anything but boat people." As he watches a couple of characters interact, the opinion comes across that the people who were there first, the ones who were born to parents born on the boats didn't think much of the moneied people coming in and pushing them out.

One episode of House Hunters (on HGTV) was looking for a houseboat. Some of those places were eye opening and made me question their seaworthiness.

I know that Walt Disney purchased large tracts of land through several different means so no one would jack up the price until he had what he wanted.

So, I wondered...just how life-like is fiction?

Do the older/longest occupiers of Seattle's waterfront resent the flashy "floating condos"?

Also, this part made me think the book was happening at a more recent year and makes me wonder just how long Seattle's waterfront has been a hip place to live!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, November 1, 2012

R.I.P. VII Wrap-Up

Once again, thanks to Melissa for joining. Without seeing her post I might have missed it this year or joined too late to request the movie and/or order the book. A big thank you to Carl for hosting!

I started the challenge out with a list of seven books and I actually read, and reviewed, one of them!

I watched a movie that I've been meaning to watch for forever and completed the reading, but not all the postings, for the Read-a-Long.

I'm happy with my results this year and look forward to the next challenge. Maybe next year, I won't be so busy.



R.eaders 
I.mbibing 
P.eril
VII

September & October



Hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings

sign ups & more info here.

Links for reviews

There are levels and an explanations of just what "Peril" means for this. And TWO group reads! The main thing . . . There are two simple goals for R.eaders I.mbibing P.eril VII

1. Have fun reading.
2. Share that fun with others.

Okay, I can do that!

Now, levels...

Peril the First:
Read four books, any length, that you feel fit (the very broad definitions) of R.I.P. literature.

~ reading four books in two months is not a problem. Reading four that fit the definition might be... I'm going for it anyways!


I've got a couple of Dean Koontz and several paranormals, Code Blood fits this and I think Divergent does too. There are others on my "review this" shelf so I've got lots to choose from.


October's group read is The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. The book is on order :-) here

1. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman ~ completed 10-11

I'm disappointed I forgot to add this! I've had the movie almost a week, after waiting for it from Netflix....

1. Something Wicked This Way Comes (watched 9-26)


Here's a short list of ... (edited to add picture)

Possible Book Choices


Whispers by Dean Koontz
Dark Rivers of the Heart by Dean Koontz
Alex van Helsing: Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson
A Circle of Souls by Preetham Grandhi
Unwelcome by Michael Griffo
Asgand Park by Ronald Simonar
The Survivor by Sean Slater
Code Blood by Kurt Kamm (on page 67)
Divergent by Veronica Roth (on page 99)




Let the reading/watching begin!

1. Beautiful Sacrifice by Elizabeth Lowell (so glad we started on the 28th)
I wouldn't think a Romantic Suspense novel counts but the lead female is a Maya expert and the lead male asks for help in finding Maya artifacts being used in blood sacrifice...human blood. She is also smart, beautiful and Maya royalty.
2. What a Demon Wants by Kathy Love
Half demon-half human author has had several break-ins and spent six months as a cat. Now her brother has hired a bodyguard for her protection. Only, the bodyguard is way too appealing for her peace of mind!

New to me author discovered while staring mindlessly at the library shelves ;-) Will read more in the series!
3. Any Way You Want It by Kathy Love
Maggie is headed to New Orleans on vacation with two girlfriends, instead of going on her honeymoon. By day she researches Classical music composers, by night....truthfully, she doesn't have a "life". Her ex-finance really did a number on her confidence. Her friends are trying to improve the odds by helping her make a wish on Marie Laveau's final resting place. 

A barely heard song tempts her to change plans for the night. A song so much like one she just received at work...

1st movie: Something Wicked This Way Comes (watched 9-26)

4. Alex Van Helsing Voice of the Undead Jason Henderson ~ review
Vampires (that don't sparkle), strange creatures, boarding school, High School. What could be scarier?

It's tough enough struggling social fun and homework but add vampire hunter to that? It's almost impossible!

~Challenges Complete~
October 11



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Season of the Witch Wrap-Up post

Season of the Witch
October

hosted at Castle Macabre

sign-up and more info, here

Guest posts, mini-challenge, giveaways...something scary every day in October

Our twitter hashtag is???

Requirements:
Read as many witch related books as you can during October.





I've got a couple of witch books on my tbr pile. Does Paranormalcy count?

Results
I had all month to read one witchy-type book. I had at least two to choose from. I got about 20 pages read before vacation and then nothing. Did I check in? Did I do any mini-challenges? Did I tweet? Nope. Nada. Zip. Zero. A complete failure!

See you next year!




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012
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.