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!)

Monday, October 29, 2012

Happy Monday

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

Last week was not a usual week for me. No gym, no volleyball, no library until Friday and very little reading. I did visit. . .
Afton Canyon, CA


Red Rock Canyon, NV


Valley of Fire, NV

. . . and the Barstow, CA outlets (new shoes!),  I'm so ready for a foot soak and a pedicure!


Oh, I was able to download the Color Run pictures :-)

Friday - all those pesky things that must be done when your away a few days....mail, groceries, laundry (library!), catching up with blog things, ...

Saturday -

Sunday -


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.

October's host is Marcia at Mailbox Monday.



Received for Review:
Halifax by Leigh Dunlap
The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
The Awakening by Marc Bolda
The Sundering Veil by Marc Bolda
The Last Kneel of Tarumus by Marc Bolda
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merrill Meadow
In His Stead by Judith Sanders

Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:



Purchased/delivered:
Cat on the Edge by Shirley Rousseau Murphy
False Impressions by Terri Thayer

added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Tuesdays at the Castle by Jessica Day George ($1.99!)
Mistletoe Mine by Emily March ($.99)

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
Angel's Rest by Emily March read and returned
Demon Can't Help It by Kathy Love
Hummingbird Lake by Emily March read and returned
October Mourning by Leslea Newman
Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
The Skinny Rules by Bob Harper
2-Week Total Body Turnaround by Chris Freytag
Cardio Core 4x4 by Jay Cardiello









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:
none? Well, I did do a lot of hiking this week. Still, I didn't even finish one stacked by my reading chair?

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


Next up:
got to finish up my still reading list!
all of my library check-outs

Reviewed:

Did Not Finish, may try again later:



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Monday, October 22, 2012

Happy Monday

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

Last week: Completed the Immortal reading challenge when I finished Blood Farie. Only one more book left to complete my Fall into Reading goals.

Monday - Chiropractor. I usually go on Tuesday so I can workout with Daughter but I really wanted a massage and that was available today. Planning on going to the gym, library (check) and grocery store. Need a pedi/mani some time this week too. And the Doc for a booster and flu shot. Went shopping for new glasses.

Tuesday - Gym and dinner with Daughter.

Wednesday - added "walk with Kathy and Maridel" to my weekly schedule but it got cancelled. Again. Today is actually my Mom's birthday and we're going to dinner. I called to say I wouldn't be at Volleyball then Mom called to say she wouldn't be going to dinner...went with M instead :-)

Thursday -wow, I don't remember what I did for two days!

Friday -

Saturday - Color Run 5k :-) lots of fun but my camera didn't load the pictures onto my memory card :-( We looked great and I was looking forward to post about them!

Sunday -Saturday took a lot out of me. Still recovering


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.

October's host is Marcia at Mailbox Monday.



Received for Review:
Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes
Enchanted by Starlight by Tina L. Hook
The Paternity Test by Michael Lowenthal



Giveaway/Contest/Gift:
Fragile by Lisa Unger
The Last Letter by Kathleen Shoop
Twilight of Avalon by Anna Elliott
(all 3 books and some goodies!)


from Author:



Purchased/delivered:


added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Wanted: One Sexy Night by Judi McCoy
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future by Michael J. Fox

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
Angel's Rest by Emily March read and returned
Demon Can't Help It by Kathy Love
Hummingbird Lake by Emily March read and returned
October Mourning by Leslea Newman
Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
The Skinny Rules by Bob Harper









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:
Full Disclosure by Sean Michael
Carved in Wood by Sean Michael
Angel's Rest by Emily March
Hummingbird Lake by Emily March

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


Next up:
got to finish up my still reading list!
all of my library check-outs

Reviewed:

Did Not Finish, may try again later:



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Terrific Tuesday

Run Your Butt Off! Intro and Angel's Rest Teaser

Hosted at Bibliophile by the Sea
Every Tuesday, she'll be posting the opening paragraph (maybe two) of her current read. Why don't you join us?

Forward: At the 2010 Chicago Marathon expo, a pair of husband-and-wife runners stop by to introduce themselves. We're chatting, and they appear to be any tow middle-aged runners, excited for the race the next day. But as their story unfolds, it slowly dawns on me that I'm seeing a shadow of their former selves. The wife got started running first, and she tells me she has lost 150 pounds.

Run Your Butt Off!
Sarah Lorge Butler with Leslie Bonci and Budd Coates
(editors of Runner's World)





Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme,
hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
1. Grab your current read Open to a random page
2. Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page ~BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS!~ make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!
3. Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!


"I used my charm and my persuasive abilities and my business acumen to convince Mr. Callahan here to design the cornerstone of our revitalization project."

Sage arched a question brow toward Gabe. "Is that true?"

He rubbed the back of his neck and made a show of considering. After a long moment, he shook his head. "No. She's wrong."
Angel's Rest
Emily March
This is from page 70 of a HEA romance


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Monday, October 15, 2012

Happy Monday

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

Last week: Completed Fraterfest RaT but only with the one book, it also counted for FrightFall.

Monday - weird day. Trouble getting to sleep, woke up late, still tired. Laid down with a headache...3 hours later, headache gone but still tired. Thought about going to the gym but, well... it didn't happen.

Tuesday - Eye doc appointment for new glasses. My MIL went with so I can use the carpool lane :-) we also went to lunch (The Islands, the Hula) and shopping (fabric, didn't get any). Daughter has a concert practice so no gym/dinner/visit with her today :-( but we'll catch up next week. I did make it to the gym and spent 10 minutes running in just my socks. That's right, ten MINUTES running.

Wednesday - added "walk with Kathy and Maridel" to my weekly schedule but Kathy has baby sitting duties .... next week? Received two review books. No volleyball, there was a problem with the net :-(

Thursday -Very glad I didn't wash my car yesterday! The surface of the pool liked like oil in a hot pan it was raining so hard. Then...a ray of sunshine brightened up the back yard! Thunder rolled across our house sending Frisky into hiding. Very nice weather for watching while curled up in a comfy chair. Blanket? Fire? Hot chocolate? :D

Friday - wow, how weird to stare at "Friday" on Saturday night and not remember. . . Oh, woke up late, back hurt, stretches out and did nothing but read until M came home early without haven eaten lunch. Quickly got ready for the day and headed out. Dinner was nice. Didn't make it to the gym, headed to bed early.

Saturday - Birthday party at my parent's. My Mom is 88 and counting! It was a nice party, not just the family, friends I hadn't seen in a while were there too.

Sunday - M's turn for the hurt back. Regular church day. Roast and mashed potatoes for dinner. No carrots :-(

I requested two books from the library that were available at my library but wanted them held until I could get there. A week later and they have not arrived for me to check out. What?  They're in the same building? Strange.


This week?
Chiropractor/massage appoint, no trainer Monday, workout with daughter Tuesday, walk with Kathy and Maridel plus Volleyball Wednesday. Three more trips to the gym, a Library trip and a dinner out somewhere in there.Vacation soon...trip to Lassen area

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.

October's host is Marcia at Mailbox Monday.



Received for Review:
Fury of Seduction by Coreene Callahan
Knight Awakened by Coreene Callahan



Giveaway/Contest/Gift:



from Author:



Purchased/delivered:


added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Fated (Dark Protectors series) by Rebecca Zanetti
Office Hours by Sean Michael 
...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:
50/50 by Dean Karnazes Read, need to return making notes
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier DNF
The Waterless Sea by Kate Constable (saw when I went to get The Chocolate War...thought I'd grab an extra since the library is closed Monday)
The Barefoot Running Book by Jason Robillard (ended up going again on Saturday)






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:
Barefoot Running Step by Step by Barefoot Ken Bob Saxton
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
Blood Faerie by India Drummond
Office Hours by Sean Michael
The Barefoot Running Book by Jason Robillard
A Book by Mordicai Gerstein! (picture book)

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
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
The Barefoot Running Book by Jason Robillard
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman


Next up:
got to finish up my still reading list!
all of my library check-outs

Reviewed:
'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries
Alex Van Helsing Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson

Did Not Finish, may try again later:
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Thoughts on ... Alex Van Helsing Voice of the Undead

First of all, this is not book one of a series. It is obvious that Alex has already had experiences with his group of friends. In fact, they are his group of friends because of his experiences.

That being said, I liked this book. 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!

A strange fire takes out the boy's school and they end up rooming at the girl's school? Ripe for hijinks but I don't think what happened is what the parents were afraid of.

The secret society reminded me a little of Jason Bourne/Mitch Rapp but it was nice to read about real vampires along with the spy/thriller stuff and the boarding school setting was a nice touch. Realistic and didn't make me think of HP until just now.

Book 1: Alex Van Helsing Vampire Rising
Book 3: Alex Van Helsing The Triumph of Death

Grade: B-, not quite a Loved it but more than a Good Book


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



Alex Van Helsing
Voice of the Undead
by Jason Henderson

HarperTeen
Released: July 2011
ISBN: 978-0061951015

Hardcover (8x5ish)
304 pages
Ages 12+
7th grade and up

Grade: B-


Product Description:
Now that Alex is in the know about the deadly vampires that live—and hunt—around his boarding school, everything is different. Putting his talents to use, Alex is training with the Polidorium to become a vampire hunter, just like his Van Helsing ancestors. Sure, he’s only fourteen, but c’mon: This runs in his blood.

But Alex is wondering if he’ll live long enough to succeed. His archnemesis Elle, a vampire whose youthful appearance and blond hair disguise a rage that’s directed at him, is out to get him before a powerful leader called Ultravox arrives on the scene. Ultravox specializes in assassinations, but who is he targeting? As he dodges Elle’s attacks, Alex is on a mission to uncover Ultravox’s deadly plan before his friends and his school become collateral damage. There’s no time to report back; innocent lives hang in the balance, and it’s on Alex to act now—or else.
copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

DNF - The Chocolate War

I read banned/challenged books and thought this would be a good one but I can't even make it to page 50. I'm sure if it was my book, it would sit on the shelf and I'd pick it up again but this is a library book and I've got to return it.

I know it isn't the book, I've only finished one other this week so I'm sure it's my reading desire. The Chocolate War just doesn't grab me at this time. Wonder if it ever will.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

The Graveyard Book Discussion 1 (R.I.P Group Read)




R.eaders 
I.mbibing 
P.eril
VII

Group Read Discussion
Post 1



Hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings

Carl's post and linky is here.




October's group read is The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman.



Whoa. First off, the book is illustrated and chapter one starts off with two statements on two black pages with an arm holding a knife.

The first 10 pages are murder. Not a "we see blood" type of murder but a killer's satisfaction of how he left the bodies and the joy that there is one more left. "That only left one, a baby barely a toddler, to take of. One more and his task would be done." I can hear the smile in his mind as I read.

I absolutely love that the "baby, barely a toddler" snuck out of the house. The description of him climbing out of his crib, down the stairs and outside are priceless. "He was surprised when he hit the floor, but he did not cry out: if you cried out they came and put you back in your crib." How clever.

Chapter one is all about murder, the chase and rescue. The baby barely a toddler is given new parents and is renamed, Nobody Owens. He is given the Freedom of the Graveyard. That's right, capitalized.

Carl asks:
As we enter this discussion of the first three chapters of The Graveyard Book, one of the things I would especially like to hear about is whether or not you enjoyed being frightened as a child and alternatively, as an adult, what are your thoughts on the opening of this novel.
I watched scary movies that my parents would not have approved but as I got older, I did not enjoy them. Now? Not so much. I like the older, more suspenseful movies instead of the slasher movies of today but prefer explosions, laughter, and romance. um, I guess I'm not going to get all three in the same movie.

I've read Bag of Bones by Stephen King, didn't realize it was a scary book. Decided not to watch the show on television because it was too scary before I found out what book it was from. Go figure.

As for the 'story shape' and 'in which he wove in mythology and folklore and characters real and imagined'...sigh. I just want to enjoy a good book.

I liked the baby barely a toddler right from the start. Fell in love with Bod when he stepped between Scarlett and the drop-off. Silas is mysterious but seems like a good guy. I chafe at the restriction of never leaving the graveyard but I, as the reader, know the man with the knife is still out there "...he had not failed. Not for years to come."

I'm grateful to Carl for assigning The Graveyard Book as the group read. I don't believe I would have read it otherwise. After all, I have had Coraline for a year and haven't opened it! I do not know if this is what Carl was after, I haven't read chapter 3 yet, but here it is. Posted before I forget.

Happy Reading

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

R.I.P. Group Read Assignment: Graveyards





R.eaders 
I.mbibing 
P.eril
VII

Group Read Assignment



Hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings

sign ups & more info here.




October's group read is The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman.

The family spent several days being tourists in the Los Angeles area last year. One day more South at the San Diego Wild Animal Park. Whale watching out of Long Beach (I got seasick, yuk!). We spent time at The Getty (oh, excuse me, The J. Paul Getty Museum), Griffith Observatory, Walk of Fame, Wax Museum, and Grauman's Chinese Theater. Oh, wait, the assignment was graveyards wasn't it? Well, we did that too. So can you.


The area was tucked behind a parking garage, hidden by several tall office buildings, not very big but a quiet place to spend some time.

Don Knott's headstone was large and beautiful.







I have no idea why the coins were stacked up like that. He was a box like Marilyn, I just wanted a close-up of the coins.






Marilyn Monroe had coins wedged into the cracks around her box. Hugh Hefner is rumored to have a spot near by.










Ray Bradbury is there now but this was last year so there isn't an end date.

Some of the others...







 The oldest (1912) I saw and two funny epithets





copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thoughts on...'Twas the Night After Christmas

Oh, I felt for the boy! Left at boarding school until the very last then picked up by an Uncle instead of his parents. Was he never to go home for the holidays? Does it ever stop hurting to read about your parents in the newspaper but never receive a letter from them? I just wanted to hug him.

The boy grows up into quite a man. What will it take to thaw his frozen heart?

I started one afternoon and stayed up late to finish. Several tissues later and my questions are answered. This is a happy-ever-after story about the strength of a Mother's love, the strength of a woman's love and forgiveness. It isn't a simple boy-meets-girl kind of book, there is heart, and pain, to the story - as well as a good chunk of sex, the man is a Rogue after all.

There is the passionate Rogue, sizzling in bed but no warmth in his heart. There is the woman who married a man because of money, was her love ever real? There is the busybody companion sick about the son's heartless rejection of his Mother. Not all is as it seems.

And who in the world is Jasper?

I just want to tell you the whole story, I was so happy with how it all turned out! If you like an Earl or two in your romance, a few tears and happy-ever-afters, you're sure to like 'Twas the Night After Christmas.



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 publisher, picture from Barnes and Noble.


'Twas the Night After Christmas
by Sabrina Jeffries

publisher: Gallery Books,
ISBN: 9781451642469
Published October 30, 2012
Hardcover
Historical Romance
18+
368 pages

also available for Kindle and Nook

Product Description:

The Letter


Dear Sir,   

I feel I should inform you that your mother is very ill. If you wish to see her before it is too late, you should come at once.   

Sincerely,  Mrs. Camilla Stuart

The Stubborn Earl of Devonmont

Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, has led an unabashed rogue’s life, letting no woman near his heart. Inexplicably abandoned as a child to be raised by distant relatives, he never forgave his parents, refusing to read any of his mother’s letters after his father’s death. Then came a letter that shook his resolve. A Christmas visit to Montcliff might prove his last chance to discover the truth of his past, and come to terms with the stranger he calls “Mother.”

Mrs. Camilla Stuart & The Subterfuge

But two surprises await him at Montcliff. His mother is perfectly healthy, nowhere near a deathbed, as her meddling lady’s companion led him to believe. The second is Camilla Stuart herself, a lively vicar’s widow, too bright and beautiful not to arouse the scoundrel in Pierce. Though she alone is reason enough to prolong his stay, he is soon faced with other tantalizing riddles: What secrets lie in his mother’s past to explain his childhood abandonment? Why is the captivating Mrs. Stuart so determined to mend the breach between mother and son? Meanwhile,  Camilla herself is caught up in love’s complications since the arrival of the irresistible earl. As his bold flirtation and suggestive whispers draw her dangerously close, can anything protect her vulnerable heart? If they are destined to share real happiness, there must be honesty between them—yet telling him the truth about her own life may shatter that chance.

None of them can predict the startling revelations to come. Or the secrets, both heartening and shocking, divulged between a mother and son, and between two lovers haunted by their respective pasts, that will make Christmas night at Montcliff one to remember—and the glorious night after, one to treasure for a lifetime.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Monday, October 8, 2012

Happy Monday

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

(don't forget to check out my giveaway in honor of Banned Books Week)

Last week:
To late to make it yesterday....M was quoted in the newspaper, in a story about the big project he was working on this weekend. AND there was an online story that was more about him :D (link)

Monday - went to a friends house at 10 a.m. to learn how to make lace. (way fun!) There were three of us, one teacher, two students, all friends. We took a break for lunch and started working again. Even after we stopped lacing, we didn't stop talking until one of saw the time....6 p.m.! Didn't get much done the rest of the day which means I missed my run. Wonder if I can do two tomorrow?

I can finally use my arm without pain twinges, finally. I'm still bruised up and want to heal before donating blood so I don't think that will happen this week.

Tuesday - Reminder about FrightFall RaT, also Season of the Witch started yesterday. Chiropractor and gym with Daughter this afternoon/evening. I received a new review book yesterday that I'm itching to get started that I started today. Worked a little on my lace.

Wednesday - added "walk with Kathy and Maridel" to my weekly schedule and today is our first one. I don't think I'll like the park we picked, too small... Well, we changed parks and decided to start next week, it's just too hot still. Volleyball was fabulous. Worked a little on my lace.

Thursday - strange day. woke up late, ate well, killed way too much time online... dinner out, trip to the library :-) and made it to the gym. um, grocery store too. Found out our library will be closed Monday for Columbus Day, so glad I went today! FYI: It is 1.9 miles from our house to the library's door. Uphill there.

Friday - the only thing on my schedule is the gym. M is home, wonder where we'll go? Where ever we go, better include buying birthday cards! .... My car was pulling so we went to the auto repair place. :p Bulge? Yikes! Off the tire center! FYI: It is a mile to the gym.

Saturday - Finished Heartache Falls, trip to the library (drop off 2, pick up 1), out to dinner and shopping for birthday cards. Didn't do much else... 3 episodes of Bones and finished Run! except some of that was on Sunday {blush}

Sunday - Birthday(s) Party! Most of M's family is still pretty local and there have been about six birthdays over the last couple of months that we're celebrating. Next week is my Mom's so we'll have another party ;-)


This week?
No trainer Monday, eye doc then workout with daughter Tuesday, walk with Kathy and Maridel plus Volleyball Wednesday. Three more trips to the gym, a Library trip and a dinner out somewhere in there. Mom's birthday party on Saturday which requires a trip to Costco...on a Saturday!

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.

October's host is Marcia at Mailbox Monday.



Received for Review:
'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries


Giveaway/Contest/Gift:



from Author:



Purchased/delivered:
The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe
Dial C for For Chihuahua by Waverly Curtis
Honey, Do You Need a Ride: Confessions of a Fat Runner by Jennifer Graham

added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Wool by Hugh Howey (1-5 omnibus)
...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:
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Barefoot Running returned unfinished
A Hole at the Bottom of the Sea by Joel Archenbach returned unread
Christmas at the Mysterious Bookshop returned unfinished
50/50 by Dean Karnazes Read, making notes
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes Read and returned
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
Heartache Falls by Emily March Read and returned
Run! 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss by Dean Karnazes Read
The Waterless Sea by Kate Constable (saw when I went to get The Chocolate War...thought I'd grab an extra since the library is closed Monday)
The Barefoot Running Book by Jason Robillard (ended up going again on Saturday)






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:
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries
Heartache Falls by Emily March
Run! 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss by Dean Karnazes
Alex Van Helsing: Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson

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 
Here Lies the Librarian by Richard Peck ~ returned
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
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
Barefoot Running Step by Step by Barefoot Ken Bob Saxton and Roy M. Wallack
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres
Alex Van Helsing: Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson
Run! 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss by Dean Karnazes



Next up:
got to finish up my still reading list!
all of my library check-outs

Reviewed:
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

Did Not Finish, may try again later:
A Hole at the Bottom of the Sea by Joel Archenbach didn't even open :-(
Christmas at the Mysterious Bookshop maybe later
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Barefoot Running sigh, didn't finish but will check it out again later when I'm running more
Here Lies the Librarian by Richard Peck I've had this long enough....time to send it home


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Fraterfest Goals and Progress


Fraterfest Read-a-Thon

October 5 - 8

There will be mini-challenges, prizes and a Twitter Party (Twitter hashtag: #Fraterfest) so be sure to get out the sign up post for more information, here
Requirements:  a Rhiannon Frater novel or a bump in the night book or a mystery for the faint of heart


Goals

finish Alex Van Helsing: Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson
read a witch book Witch Way to Murder by Shirley Damsgaard or Witch  High edited by Denise Little
maybe and she was by Alison Gaylin



dang, this is only three days? I'll be lucky to finish Van Helsing!

Wish me luck


I did it!!
I finished Alex Van Helsing: Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson. AND I'll be writing a review :-)

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Another Challenge Spooktacular Reads for October

Spooktacular Paranormal 
Reading Challenge

October 2012

hosted by Marie at Ramblings of a Daydreamer


Marie wants a minimum of three paranormal books read AND reviewed during October. I wasn't going to do this but the first book picked up for another challenge is a review book so, what the heck. There is a bunch of other stuff so don't forget to check out the sign up post and join us!

Twitter
challenge: #SPRC
me: @bookdragonslair


First up (the book to blame my joining on): Alex Van Helsing: Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson.

Not sure what other books I'll be reading....will get back to you about this.


~Books Read~
Alex Van Helsing Voice of the Undead Jason Henderson
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
Blood Faerie by India Drummond




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Thoughts on...The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian



I'm very happy to be part of Banned Books Week. It is a sensitive subject for me as it should be for all who love to read. There is a giveaway at the end of the post. Don't forget see what others are reading or have to say about Banned Book Week this week! 







This was a difficult book to read. It truly reads like a diary and it felt like I was invading someones privacy. Add in the social issues of living on an Indian Reservation plus the bullying and I really struggled with it.

This book made it on ALA's Top Ten Banned/Challenged books of 2011. Reasons? offensive language; racism; religious viewpoint; sexually explicit; unsuited to age group

Let's take the age group complaint first. It is written about a high school student for high school, or almost high school, students. You may not want your 11-year old reading it but only because they may ask you uncomfortable questions.

Sexually explicit and offensive language are easy.... the boy is 14. Hello! The person/people complaining about this only have little girls who don't play in the dirt, don't remember when they were 14 or are lying about it, have never spend time "eavesdropping" on the playground/sports field. I felt it was all character/age appropriate. If you haven't talked to your children about sex, you may find yourself answering uncomfortable questions.

Racism? Realism/stereotype. Sure Dad is an Indian and an alcoholic but the popular girl is bulimic and the most popular boy is the Senior Quarterback. How are you supposed to write about an Indian without expressing real and imagined characteristics? How are you supposed to tell a story about high school kids with out talking about high school attitudes?

Religious viewpoint? Sorry, I didn't see this one. Oh, wait. Do you mean anything that hinted of cultural ceremonies? Did it hurt your sensibilities to see someone celebrating a life instead of tearing their hair at a funeral?

~*~

Junior didn't start life out very well and some of the medical issues were because of who is was. An Indian. Too bad he didn't fit the mold they tried to push him into. He was too smart. Smart enough to go to the "white" school. This book is his freshman year. It does give you some background but the real story starts on the first day of high school when he throws a school book and hits a teacher.

He didn't AIM at the teacher. It's just that the book he was handed was the same book his Mother used. Yeah, that old of a text book. The teacher talks him into changing high schools, "...I don't want you to fail. I don't want you to fade away...."

This book is about a boy trying to better himself. The life he lives at home. The struggle to get to school everyday. The attitude of those still at home (reservation) and those at the new school.

The story of a high school boy.



Disclaimer: This book is from my personal library. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of publisher


The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
by Sherman Alexie

publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
format: hardcover
ISBN:  9780316013697
Juvenile Fiction - Social Issues, Adolescence
240 pages


Product Description:
In his first book for young adults, bestselling author Sherman Alexie tells the story of Junior, a budding cartoonist growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Determined to take his future into his own hands, Junior leaves his troubled school on the rez to attend an all-white farm town high school where the only other Indian is the school mascot. Heartbreaking, funny, and beautifully written, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, which is based on the author's own experiences, coupled with poignant drawings by acclaimed artist Ellen Forney, that reflect the character's art, chronicles the contemporary adolescence of one Native American boy as he attempts to break away from the life he was destined to live.


AND...as a reward for reading the whole thing.... I'm going to give away my copy along with a homemade bookmark. No fancy entry form, you don't have to follow me (it would be nice), you just need a US mailing address and leave a way for me to email you to get it. I'll pick a comment at random on October 11 about noon PST




My copy of the book is used but in fairly decent condition with a dust jacket. The bookmark is silver in color, has a green stone in the flower and is 3.5" long.














copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Review Challenge ... Book Monster's Review Copy Wipeout!


Review Copy Wipeout! 
October 1st through December 31st 

A "clear off your review shelves" challenge hosted by those wonderful kick-butt girls at The Book Monsters!

Any book that you have received for review in 2012 counts towards the challenge, regardless if the book is physical or ebook, all genres and lengths are welcome!

Sign up here before October 15th.

I need to dig through my email/shelves before I can make a list but I did receive one book yesterday.

~Books to Choose From~


  1. 'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries ~ received (10-1) is scheduled for the 10th
  2. The K Street Affair by Mari Passananti ~ in the mail received (10-31)
  3. Fury of Seduction by Coreene Callahan ~ in the mail received (10-10)
  4. Knight Awakened by Coreene Callahan ~ in the mail received (10-10)
  5. The Dark Side of Hope by Karen Krett ~ received
  6. Breaking the Devil’s Heart by H. A. Goodman ~ received (last one, bought copy for .99)
  7. Play Him Again by Jeffrey Stone ~ received
  8. Questing for Uberjoy by Konrad Ventana ~ ?
  9. Calling Invisible Women by Jeanne Ray ~ ?
  10. Adam Orser: The Cronicles of Evolution by Daniel Armand ~ finish and update
  11. Asgard Park by Ronald Simonar ~ received
  12. Just a Minute by Wess Stafford ~ received two
  13. The Book Lover by Maryann McFadden ~ received
  14. The Priest and the Peaches by Larry Peterson ~ finish and update
  15. The Mess We're In by Guy Fraser-Sampson ~ waiting for publisher
  16. edited to add: Halifax by Leigh Dunlap ~ received (10-22) ebook
  17. edited to add: Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes ~ in the mail received (10-15) (assigned rev date Nov 14)
  18. edited to add: Enchanted by Starlight by Tina L. Hook ~ in the mail received (10-15) (assigned rev date Nov 21)
  19. edited to add The Paternity Test by Michael Lowenthal ~ in the mail received (10-15) (assigned rev date Nov 28)
  20. edited to add: The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe ~ received (10-24)
  21. edited to add: The Awakening by Marc Bolda ~ received (10-24)
  22. edited to add: The Sundering Veil by Marc Bolda ~ received (10-24)
  23. edited to add: The Last Kneel of Tarumus by Marc Bolda ~ received (10-24)
  24. edited to add: Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merrill Meadow ~ received (10-26)
  25. edited to add: In His Stead by Judith Sanders ~ received (10-26)
  26. edited to add: The Church Sign by Anne Robey-Graham ~ received (12-1)
  27. edited to add: The Lightbringers by H. C. H. Ritz ~ received (12-5)

Oh. Yikes. So two have had some kind of review posted. One hasn't been published yet but might be received in December. Three are still in the mail. Not sure if I received two of them. One was actually purchased.

10-15: Must review SIX EIGHT TEN
O.M.G. I've got to review TWENTY-ONE!
Maybe nine ten, if the other three four arrive soon
Two more in the mail, one waiting to be published to blog books to finish and update, and. . .
one that was purchased for .99 so it will be last.



First up: 'Twas the Night After Christmas or Asgard Park. . .off to read!
1) 'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries ~ review
Alex Van Helsing Voice of the Undead Jason Henderson (not a 2012 book) ~ review
2) Perfect Bait by Michael Fowlkes ~ review




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

2013 Challenges

It's that time of year again! I'm noticing new challenges popping up for 2013 and thought I'd better get 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. Dropping favorites will be difficult. Plus I really enjoyed taking time off and plan to do so again in 2013.

Wish me luck!

 ALL open Challenges for 2013


Read-a-Thon/Events

Michelle at The True Book Addict hosts several RaTs/challenges through the year: Winter's Respite, Christmas Spirit, Spring into Horror, FrightFall, High Summer, off the top of my head.

Dewey's 24-Hour RaT is every April and October

Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings hosts R.eaders I.mbibing P.eril (R.I.P) every Sept/Oct.

Bout of Books is twice a year, May and August

The Book Monsters hosts Pick Your Thon and I think it's quarterly

Banned Books Week is sometime is September or October


Challenges

from 2012: Monthly Mix-up Mania, 3-31-13

Perpetual: Whittle Down Your Perpetual TBR List
100 Best Novels :: 101 Fantasy :: Cedar Cove :: Cardathon (Orson Scott) :: Disney Lit :: Landover :: Banned Books :: PBandJ :: Prey :: Redwall

Keep track of the following:
number :: Publisher :: Author :: Genre :: Pages :: print/ebook
Location :: Animal :: TBR :: ARC :: Series
Title words - Color :: Food

Spring Reading Thing
Fall into Reading
Memorable Memoirs at The Betty and Boo Chronicles ... (go for Diarist: read 1-4 memoirs)
Why Buy the Cow?
Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks (and A to Z titles)
ARC of some kind


I wonder if I'll be able to keep track without officially joining the challenges? I wonder if I'll be able to NOT join in?

Maybe...
What's in a Name 6 at Beth Fish Reads
Foodie hosted by Margot from Joyfully Retired at Foodie3? (Foodies Read 2)
Color Coded at My Reader's Block
Harlequin may not be hosted in 2013










copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Books Read in 2012 . . .

October Recap

199. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

200. 'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries

201. Heartache Falls by Emily March

202. Run! 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss by Dean Karnazes

203. Alex Van Helsing - Voice of the Undead by Jason Henderson

204. Barefoot Running Step by Step by Barefoot Ken Bob Saxton and Roy M. Wallack

205. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

206. Blood Faerie by India Drummond

207. Office Hours by Sean Michael

208. The Barefoot Running Book by Jason Robillard

209. A Book by Mordicai Gerstein

210. Angel's Rest by Emily March

211. Hummingbird Lake by Emily March



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Monday, October 1, 2012

Happy Monday

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

Last week:
Monday - Finished Any Way You Want it by Kathy Love. No chores, nice nap, grocery shopping and In n Out for dinner. No gym :-(

Tuesday - Finished Nightingale Way. Last minute lunch invite. FOUR hours later and we're finally leaving. Workout with daughter.

Wednesday - Doc apt. Apparently a ENT guy must approve my ears before getting a hearing aide. The hearing is already approved, now they have to check my physical ears. shrug. Volleyball didn't happen :-( too much confusion about someone else using the court. Oh, well. Next week! Watched the movie Something Wicked This Way Comes, now to find the book!

Thursday - Lunch with my parents (at a different, better place). Nice, enjoyable time then shopping at Costco. I did NOT buy JK's new book but am #408 at the library so I might change my mind. I finished reading Run Your Butt Off! just in time to make plans to start the program on Monday. Telemarketer called just after 8 am saying I had called him yesterday, grrr, woke me up two hours early. Took a nap.

Friday - M left for work this morning, for the weekend. There is a big project happening and he needs to be closer to the site so he's staying in a hotel nearby. Daughter is coming over to help me clear out the bedroom that will be part guest room/part library. Yea! Hope I remember to take pictures. Caught my second wind after dinner so I headed to the library (pick up 1, drop off 4) and the gym. Yikes, it is 11:30 p.m. and I haven't read anything? Quick sit down and read something ;-)

Saturday - Daughter and her boyfriend came back. The wallpaper is down, most stuff has been gone through and the drywall is patched, ready to sand and paint. Too bad lots was keeper stuff and it has to go back into the middle of room for now. I've hurt my arm somehow. There was pain when I lifted my water bottle! I did have blood drawn yesterday but don't know how that would relate. Hoping it gets better for Monday's workout. Library trip (pick up two) and then took them to dinner.

Sunday - should be a regular church day. M will be home tonight. We still got stuff spread all over the living room waiting for me/Son to clean up the floor of the other room. When is M getting home? Better hurry! Cool sidenote: M was mentioned in the newspaper as part of a front page article.


This week?
Trainer Monday, chiropractor then workout with daughter Tuesday, Volleyball Wednesday. Library trip and a dinner out somewhere in there...hey, that's what last week looked like! Oh, didn't donate blood last week and am hoping to walk in this week. ....um, my weeks are starting to look alike, including the "didn't donate blood" part. Adding "walk with Kathy and Maridel" to Wednesdays

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.

September's host is Kristen at BookNAround

edit: totally flaked on the date....October's host is Marcia at Mailbox Monday. Thanks Kristen!


Received for Review:



Giveaway/Contest/Gift:



from Author:



Purchased/delivered:
Run Your Butt Off by Sarah Lorge Butler with Leslie Bonci and Budd Coates
Sweet Dreams by Catherine Anderson
The Lady Risks All by Stephanie Laurens
The Runner's Rule Book by Mark Remy
Barefoot Running Step by Step by Barefoot Ken Bob Saxton and Roy M. Wallack
Get Organized! by Colette Leigh
A Book by Mordicai Gerstein

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

...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:
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Barefoot Running
A Hole at the Bottom of the Sea by Joel Archenbach
There and Back Again by Sean Astin returned DNF
Christmas at the Mysterious Bookshop
Nightingale Way by Emily March read and returned

50/50 by Dean Karnazes
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes







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:
Any Way You Want It by Kathy Love
Nightingale Way by Emily March
Get Organized! by Colette Leigh
Run Your Butt Off by Sarah Lorge Butler with Leslie Bonci and Budd Coates
50/50 by Dean Karnazes
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
A Killer Read by Erika Chase


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 
Here Lies the Librarian by Richard Peck
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
A Killer Read by Erika Chase
The Last Patriot by Brad Thor
Power Down by Ben Coes
Double the Heat, anthology
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
Barefoot Running Step by Step by Barefoot Ken Bob Saxton and Roy M. Wallack
Age is Just a Number  by Dara Torres



Next up:
got to finish up my still reading list!
all of my library check-outs

Reviewed:


Did Not Finish, may try again later:
There and Back Again by Sean Astin



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.