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!)

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Three Running books for Women

This isn't a "I finished reading" post. Uh, maybe a little background is in order.

Like many of you, I read. A lot. I'm a stay-at-home mom of adult children who hates housework so I spend a lot of my time with a book.

I also like to think of myself as a runner. I don't go very fast or very far and I'm near the back of the pack in a race, if not dead last. But. I move forward and both feet leave the ground at the same time.

I run so I'd have something to talk about besides books. So, yeah, there are health benefits, especially now that I've been diagnosed as a diabetic. But I started running so I could race faster so I could have something to talk about besides books. Unless you want me to talk about my daughter's job? She's an embalmer so maybe not ;-)

Like many good readers, when I started this new project called "be a runner",  I went to the library. I also talked to family who run and checked out the internet. I've purchased a few but checked three woman runner books and someone said they'd be interested in my thoughts.

On to the books. . .

Women's Complete Guide to Running 
by Jeff and Barbara Galloway

Meyer & Meyer
978-1841263212
April 2011, 3rd edition
232 pages

website


Jeff Galloway, an US Olympian in 1972, has helped over 150,000 people make this journey while reducing or eliminating aches, pains, and injuries suffered during most training programs. Jeff developed the Run-Walk-Run method of training, and together with his wife Barbara he offers a step by step program specifically designed for the needs and concerns of women. Included are lots of tips on staying motivated, building endurance, shoes, stretching and strengthening, as well as smart nutrition choices, and much more. All of the described programs and exercises can be incorporated into the busiest lifestyle - to improve attitude, relieve stress, and enjoy a greater sense of vitality.

Thoughts: Women who run have discovered several issues that men don't seem to have. While it can be true that a male runner needs help choosing a stroller to run with, he doesn't need to worry about running while pregnant. Breast issues, leakage, anorexia, amenorrhea are just a few of the issues brought up. Post-partum depression is also brought up and has the shortest information. It basically says this is serious, see a doctor. 

Much of this information crosses genders but the book doesn't seem to read as a general runner book with female sections inserted. It reads like an instructor at a running club. The one who has been running the longest, heard all the stupid questions, ask him anything and if he doesn't know he can find out.

This one wasn't finished but I'm not counting it as DNF. I simply ran out of checkouts and will be requesting it again when I can concentrate more.

~*~*~*~

Joan Samuelson's Running for Women
by Joan Benoit Samuelson and Gloria Averbuch

Rodale Press, Inc
9780875962399
April 1995 256 Pages

A guide for women runners by an Olympic champion includes tips from Joan Benoit, her coaches, and other pros, as well as training charts, workouts, nutritional advice, and advice on balancing running with job and family.

Thoughts: Joan Benoit Samuelson is an American marathon runner who won gold at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the year that the women's marathon was introduced. As a result, she was the first-ever women's Olympic marathon champion. Yes, this makes her a great resource but between the publication date and the attitude I couldn't finish it. Yes, she medaled in the Olympics. Yes it was Gold. Maybe if this was the first running book I'd read I'd be okay but as it is...I just couldn't finish it.

~*~*~*~


The Complete Book of Running for Women
by Claire Kowalchik

Pocket Books
978-0671017033
March 1999
416 pages

More women than ever are discovering the unique benefits of running -- for stress relief, weight management, endurance, and self-esteem. Women's bodies are not the same as men's, and though we can train just as hard and with the same passion for excellence, we have certain special concerns. Finally, there is a comprehensive guide exclusively for women who experience the pure joy of running, or want to.

It's the simplest, fastest, most accessible way to fitness and good health known to woman. You don't need a partner, equipment, or even much time. Now, Claire Kowalchik, former managing editor of Runner's World magazine, answers every question about the overwhelmingly popular activity that builds endurance, melts fat, and even prevents illness.

Thoughts: This book is only four years newer than Joan's book be feels much more recent. The "Why Run" chapter is almost worth buying the book for!

 The book feel more like a conversation with a friend but again, I didn't finish it because I ran out of checkouts.



There are a LOT of books out there about running. You don't need a "training for a marathon" book if you can't run around the block so first decide what kind of runner you are. If you're a super beginner, my favorite is Run Your Butt Off which is a very beginner's basic walk-run program. Then again there are many books out there doing the same thing. 

Of these three. . . my 1st choice would be the Galloway book but Claire's book will be checked out again. Joan's book isn't even on my "check out to finish" list.

For myself, I don't like shoes and purchased Natural Running by Danny Abshire and Brian Metzler


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Monday, February 25, 2013

Happy Monday

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

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 January's host: Lori's Reading Corner
February's host: Unabridged Chick

Received for Review:


Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:


Purchased/delivered:


added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
What Chris Wants by Lori Foster
Four Weddings and a Fiasco (Books 1-3) by Lucy Kevin
Miss Minimalist: Inspiration to Downsize, Declutter, and Simplify by Francine Jay

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:
Black List by Brad ThorBeginner's Running Guide by Hal Hidgon
Deadly Politics by Maggie Sefton (not her knitting series so we'll see)
The Shining by Stephen King

A N D . . .
There are three books waiting for me to pick up. I have no idea where I'm at anymore with the rest of them....I've got over 30 books on request, most delayed.



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:
Worth the Weight by Mara Jacobs
They Walk Among Us by T. A. Chase
A Soldier's Choice by D. L. Warner

Books stacked by my reading chair (clean slate for the year):
The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merill Meadow
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
Black List by Brad Thor


Next up:
Cat and the Lady Killer by Lisa Orchard
Finding the Voice Inside You by Jill Birth
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead


Reviewed:



Did Not Finish, may try again later:
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julie Romp

Happy Reading!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #16 (NSFW)

 A Soldier's Choice
D. L. Warner
978-0977867097
224 pages
Sybaritic Press (ebook)
Amazon (print)
December 2008
18+

ebook
Sci-Fi/Futuristic, Military, Romance, gay
source: private library

They were soldiers. Fight or die was all they had known since they were still boys. Colonel Rik Heron was on track to become the youngest General Joint Command had ever produced. But then his wild protégé, Vincent Greven was lost in a senseless battle born of the crazed ambitions of their superior officers. After two years of a hollow and empty existence, Vincent returns during a cataclysmic firefight. He is older, wiser and irresistible to Rik. While they heal from the last battle and repair old wounds, a deep bond builds between them. Friends and colleagues are not pleased about their relationship or their plans to leave the military. While the pair navigates a messy and dangerous situation, new plots are brewing that put them in the crosshairs once more.

~*~*~
The story starts at with the return of Vincent and the bond grows quickly. We learn of all that went before through re-tellings and interviews. While this is a gay romance book with lots of sex, there is a strong futuristic military story full of enhanced humans, deep friendship and explosions.

The sad thing is that I never would have picked it up based on the cover and I've enjoyed it so much that this is about the fifth time I read the book. 

A second book is also available with Bobby, Vincent's brother, as the main focus.






copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Size Does Matter! I mean length. grr... number of pages!

Challenge:   Quick Fix
Dates:   2013
Hosted at Jessie's Book Place
Sign- up here

Basic requirements: Read books that have less than 300 pages

I'm going for Gorilla Glue and hope to read 20+ books.

~ Challenge Complete ~
#21 finished on April 29



Challenge: In The Middle
Dates:   2013
Hosted at Rachael Turns Pages
Sign up here

Basic Requirements: Read books that are at least 300 pages but not more than 400 pages

I'm going for Never Stop Reading and hope to read 15+ books





Challenge: Mammoth Books
Dates:   2013
Hosted at Darlene's Book Nook
more info here

Basic Requirements: Read books that are at least 450 pages long. (audio/ebooks count but no anthologies, short story collections, or poetry)

I'm going for . . . African Elephant . . . and hope to read 12 or more



~Books Read for Quick Fix~
1. Wicked Gift by Sean Michael
2. The Missing Monarch by Rachelle McCalla
3. Moosed-Up by Tiffinie Helmer
4. The Reluctant Vampire by Carla Krae
5. To Tame a Dragon by Megan Bryce
6. Frozen Prospects by Dean Murray
7. It's a Good Life by Carol Lynne
8. The Runaway Shopping Cart by Kathy Long
9. With Love by Kim Dare
10. What Chris Wants by Lori Foster
11. Worth the Weight by Mara Jacobs
12. They Walk Among Us by T. A. Chase
13. A Soldier's Choice by D. L. Warner 
14. It's Not Easy Being Green by Jim Henson
15. Chaps and Hope by Bailey Bradford
16. Lock and Key by Sasha Devlin 
17. Working It Out by Sean Michael
18. Getting Real by Christiane France
19. Leaving Home by T. A. Chase
20. White Knight and Black Fur by Joyee Flynn
21. Rumble and Churr by Joyee Flynn 

~Books Read for In The Middle~
1. A Fool's Gold Christmas by Susan Mallery
2. Trace the Fever by Lori Foster
3. The Wanderer by Robyn Carr
4. The Heart of a Hero by Janet Chapman
5. The Extra-Ordinary Princess by Carolyn Q. Ebbitt
6. The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After by Julia Quinn
7. Loving a Lost Lord by Mary Jo Putney
8. Never Less Than a Lady by Mary Jo Putney
9. The Lady Most Likely by Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, Connie Brockway
10. Sand Castle Bay by Sherryl Woods
11. Wind Chime Point by Sheryl Woods
12. Just One Kiss by Susan Mallery
13. One Day in Apple Grove by C. H. Admirand  
14. Sea Glass Island by Sherryl Woods
15. Fatal Error by Colleen Thompson
16. Two of a Kind by Susan Mallery
 


~Books Read for Mammoth Books~
1. The Edge of Desire by Stephanie Laurens
2. A Lady Risks All by Stephanie Laurens
3. Killing Floor by Lee Child
4. Running Blind by Lee Child 
5. Echo Burning by Lee Child
6. The Hard Way by Lee Child
7. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
8. Saved by the Rancher by Jennifer Ryan
9.
10.
11.
12.
13. 



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Monday, February 18, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #15 (sexy)

They Walk Among Us
T. A. Chase
978-1-61124-377-2
172 pages
Amber Quill/Allure (print, ebook)
18+

ebook
Sci-Fi/Futuristic, Action, Romance
source: private library

Zach Harliegh was a baby when the aliens arrived. He doesn’t remember much about those months, except his parents fighting and his dad leaving. His father eventually died destroying the aliens, and his mother passed away when Zach graduated from medical school. So now, he’s alone in the world, working hard to get his career going, which leaves no time for any kind of relationship.

Then one night, a beautiful man is brought into Zach’s ER. Raven Sanderson has been severely beaten, and seems unsocialized. When Zach takes over Raven’s care, the men immediately hit it off. Raven can’t speak, but writes notes to Zach, letting him know he is in the city to locate his sister.

Zach agrees to help Raven, and finds himself drawn into a world he never knew existed—a world still full of alien creatures that read minds, and heal with a simple touch. And their offspring walk among us...

~*~*~
There is much to tell you but not without spoilers! Zach is part of an underground railroad type organization to help those who can't help themselves...usually, they're running from the government!

This story has lots of action, bad guy killings, some loving, reunited siblings and surprise help.




Other challenges this works for:
A-Z
ebooks
Genre/Sub-Genre
Genre Varity
Let Me Count the Ways
MM Romance
Men in Uniform
150+




copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Happy Monday

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

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 January's host: Lori's Reading Corner
February's host: Unabridged Chick

Received for Review:


Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:


Purchased/delivered:


added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
What Chris Wants by Lori Foster
Four Weddings and a Fiasco (Books 1-3) by Lucy Kevin
Miss Minimalist: Inspiration to Downsize, Declutter, and Simplify by Francine Jay

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:
Knee High by the Fourth of July by Jess Lourey
The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner
Dogs Don't Lie by Clea Simon
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julia Romp
Black List by Brad Thor
Beginner's Running Guide by Hal Hidgon
Deadly Politics by Maggie Sefton (not her knitting series so we'll see)

A N D . . .
The Shining is currently waiting for me and I have no idea where I'm at anymore with the rest of them....I've got over 30 books on request, most delayed.



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:
What Chris Wants by Lori Foster

Books stacked by my reading chair (clean slate for the year):
Worth the Weight by Mara Jacobs
The Blue Zone due back at library

The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merill Meadow
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julia Romp
Black List by Brad Thor


Next up:
Cat and the Lady Killer by Lisa Orchard
Finding the Voice Inside You by Jill Birth
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead


Reviewed:



Did Not Finish, may try again later:
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julie Romp

Happy Reading!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Finished Reading . . . #14 (NSFW)

Worth the Weight
The Worth Series
(Book 1: The Nice One)
Mara Jacobs
978-0985258658
284 pages
amazon (kindle-still free? and print)
self published
18+ (sex and language)

ebook
Contemporary Romance
source: private library

Lizzie Hampton is literally a shadow of her former self. Having lost half her body weight, she's headed to her small hometown to test out her new body on an old flame. Just a harmless fling to get her self confidence back before she returns to the city and the new man in her life. But Lizzie's plan has a few bumps in the road.

Finn Robbins can't believe Liz is back in town. Desperate to be the holder of her innocence eighteen years ago, he never got the chance. Now she's back and he can finally check her off his to do list.

But her friends, his son, and the mysterious Annie may have something to say about that.

~*~*~
All of the emotional scars that come from being, not just overweight, but fat, come through. The strength Liz needs to admit there is a problem is "off camera" but still evident. I love the way Finn's heartache and happiness is portrayed.
A lump grew in Finn’s throat as he watched the minivan drive away. Tomorrow. They would now have a lifetime of tomorrows to say thank you. And please. And I love you. And pass the bread and every other mundane thing that members of a family said to each other.

I love that this is part of a series and am looking forward to reading the other two, Worth the Drive and Worth the Fall.


Other challenges this works for:
Where are you reading?/50 States
Contemporary Romance 
Read 52 books in 52 Weeks
ebook
150+
Let Me Count the Ways



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

A Week in Review




Fun, Fitness, Family,
Television and Movies, 
maybe a book or two. 
A weekly report of what's been happening in my real-world life.

Sunday - Missed church :-(

Monday - blah day

Tuesday - wow, I don't even remember today

Wednesdayblah day, again. Oh, I did some some errands and got some paperwork completed but I didn't leave the house. (now I'm wondering what errands I did that didn't require me to leave the house?)

Thursday -  Happy Valentine's Day!

Friday - Dinner out and grocery shopping. We went to two stores and I still forgot the chocolate chips. That was the one thing I went for!

Saturday - worked on getting my planner, appointments and dates straighten out but still not finished. :-(

Movies

Television - Property Brothers, Top Gear (which was filming in the US, it was fun to see them at places I'm been too!), Biggest Loser, Criminal Minds, Numb3rs, House Hunters/International

Other Thoughts

Sometimes, this sounds fabulous

I know we all wish for a little more shuteye but she's right, too much of a good thing

I do have plans for next week but missing church and working outwith Daughter really throw my week off. I have a hard enough time know what day it is without both my anchors being gone.

Have a great week



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Finished Reading #13 . . . (cleanish)

What Chris Wants
Edge of Honor series
Lori Foster

9781459231214
42 pages
16+ (male/male romance but any sex is off screen)
Harlequin
January 2013

ebook
romance
source: personal library

When the going gets tough, the tough turn to Chris Chapey. As the right-hand man to a group of take-no-prisoners mercenaries, Chris can organize a top-secret rescue mission with his eyes closed. But when it comes to his personal life, Chris is the one who needs a little help.

His problem: Matt Houser. Chris can't deny his attraction to Matt, but Matt has no idea what Chris's job really entails and how much it means to him. Matt challenges Chris to change his life--and make a place for him in it. Can Chris risk telling him the truth?

~*~*~

There is a nice "Dear Readers" letter at the beginning of the novella explaining that Ms. Foster never intended to write Chris' story. He was a supporting character in all of the other books but that was it. After numerous readers asked for Chris' story, Chris himself spoke up and thank heavens he did!

This is a quick read at the end of the series. Reading it may spoil some of the outcome of the other books but not if you think about it, (happy ever after romance) This just rounds out the group and pairs everyone up.

Dang, I own book four but no worries, I've already requested the first book from the library :-)




Challenges this works for:
A to Z (C)
Let Me Count the Ways
ebooks
M/M Romance



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Are you a paper book or an ebook?




I'm a Paper Book ...

When it comes to reading, you really value quality over quantity. You are a devoted reader.
You don't like to rush through anything you are reading. You like to get up close and personal with your books.
Paper books suit you best, even if they are pricier and more difficult to obtain. Like a good story, they are worth it for you.
Besides, there is nothing you like more than having a beautiful bookshelf full of books you love. No eBook can do that for you.
Are you a paper book or an ebook? Check out the quiz


I do love holding a paper book but that "beautiful bookshelf" is overflowing!

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Monday, February 11, 2013

Happy Monday

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

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 January's host: Lori's Reading Corner
February's host: Unabridged Chick

Received for Review:


Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:


Purchased/delivered:
Cat Trick by Sofie Kelly

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:
Knee High by the Fourth of July by Jess Lourey
The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner
Dogs Don't Lie by Clea Simon
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julia Romp
Black List by Brad Thor
Beginner's Running Guide by Hal Hidgon
Deadly Politics by Maggie Sefton (not her knitting series so we'll see)

A N D . . .
The Shining is currently waiting for me and I have no idea where I'm at anymore with the rest of them....I've got over 30 books on request, most delayed.



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 Runaway Shopping Cart by Kathy Long
With Love by Kim Dare

Books stacked by my reading chair (clean slate for the year):
Worth the Weight by Mara Jacobs
The Blue Zone
The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merill Meadow
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julia Romp
Black List by Brad Thor


Next up:
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
Cat and the Lady Killer by Lisa Orchard
Finding the Voice Inside You by Jill Birth
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead


Reviewed:



Did Not Finish, may try again later:


Happy Reading!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Sunday, February 10, 2013

A Week in Review




Fun, Fitness, Family,
Television and Movies, 
maybe a book or two. 
A weekly report of what's been happening in my real-world life.

Sunday - I'm not into football but I do love a party :-) 

Party at my parents house. My brother and SIL were there, also their DIL, her parents and the grandchildren. Lots of cheering, boos, and great food.

Monday - blah day

Tuesday - blah day. Again.

Wednesday - M's company car wouldn't start this morning and the machanic didn't have a battery (it has to be ordered). No big deal, he can work from home today. The good news is that we got to go to lunch!

Thursday - Lunch with parents and shopping. I bought a new shirt, shoes and tried on several dresses (most were too big!) 

Friday - Doctor appointments. :p several hours later. . . the Diabetic doc is happy with all my numbers and the Shrink is going to help me with my sleep. New meds, more meds, free meds! All in all, a good day.

Enjoying The Holder's Dominion 

Saturday - Birthday party for a nephew and a dinner for Cub Scouts...Blue and Gold

Movies

Television - Biggest Loser, Bones, Numb3rs, Flashpoint, Criminal Minds

Other Thoughts

Well, that's one way to boost library attendance!

Are dragon's real? Well. . .

Some of these are just so-so but the others are fantastic! Snow buildings


Great example of "it's fun until someone gets hurt" ...teens lose fingers in game of tug-of-war

Never mess with people who have the power to make your life miserable. That includes DMV employees, waiters and baggage handlers. And judges. Especially them. Contempt of court

would you like to go? Rare Book School


Have a great week



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Friday, February 8, 2013

Books Read in 2013. . . January


Total titles/bindings: 12
Total pages read:
2,685
library books:2


Library books:
A Fool's Gold Christmas by Susan Mallery
The Runaway Shopping Cart by Kathy Long


New-to-me (print) fiction:
A Fool's Gold Christmas by Susan Mallery,
A Lady Risks All by Stephanie Laurens
The Runaway Shopping Cart by Kathy Long 


New-to-me (electronic) fiction:
Wicked Gift by Sean Michael,
The Missing Monarch by Rachelle McCalla,
Moosed-Up by Tiffinie Helmer,
A Reluctant Vampire by Carla Krae,
Frozen Prospects by Dean Murray,
It's a Good Life by Carol Lynne


New non-fiction:


Re-reads (print):
Mastered by Love by Stephanie Laurens

Re-reads (electronic):
The Edge of Desire by Stephanie Laurens




~Pages Read~
121 :: Wicked Gift by Sean Michael
224 :: The Missing Monarch by Rachelle McCalla
128 :: Moosed-Up by Tiffinie Helmer
30 :: A Reluctant Vampire by Carla Krae
320 :: A Fool's Gold Christmas by Susan Mallery
115 :: To Tame a Dragon by Megan Bryce
260 :: Frozen Prospects by Dean Murray
462 :: The Edge of Desire by Stephanie Laurens
434 :: Mastered by Love by Stephanie Laurens
467 :: A Lady Risks All by Stephanie Laurens 
92 :: It's a Good Life by Carol Lynne
32 :: The Runaway Shopping Cart by Kathy Long 


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Finished Reading #13 . . . (NSFW)

With Love
Pushing the Envelope #14
Kim Dare
978-1-61124-331-4
32 pages, approx
Amber Quill Allure imprint

ebook
MM, Contemporary Romance, BDSM
source: private library

Joe has a plan. If it works, Scott will begin the journey toward complete confidence in their relationship. If it doesn’t work, well, they’re screwed. And there is no Plan B.

Scott isn’t surprised to find that the final letter Joe intends to send him is filled with nothing but orders, and it doesn’t even occur to him to disobey them.

As he sits in the backroom of a leather bar, Scott has no idea what will happen next. And despite all Joe’s careful plans, it may well turn out that he’s in for a few surprises, too...

~*~*~
The series is over and I'm sad to see it end. I've enjoyed reading about Joe, even if he isn't my favorite Dom and Scott is adorable. I wish the books had been together with each envelope a chapter instead of a new book.


Other challenges this works for:
M/M
Contemporary Romance - not long enough
erotic ~ need to sign up for this one still
ebook
Outdo Yourself
150+
Read-a-Latte
Let Me Count the Ways
Monthly Key Words


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Spotlight on ... 6 Ways Video Games Can Improve Your Life

6 Ways Video Games Can Improve Your Life

I received a fascinating book but real-life has interferred in my reading life! I posted a Spotlight to tell you about the book but this is something all together different. I love #4 :-) and while they can also isolate, I too love video games, I just don't do them enough.

The Holder's Dominion
by Genese Davis

Publisher: Beaver's Pond Books
Release Date: March 1, 2013
ISBN: 978-1-59298-580-7

~*~*~*~

How many times have you heard a woman say that she is sick and tired of her husband or boyfriend playing video games? Genese Davis has a healthy solution to that problem. Join him!

Genese Davis is a gamer. She's also a writer, a pilot, a horseback riding instructor, an athlete, a model and a manager in a financial organization. In other words, she is a highly accomplished, well-rounded woman. She also loves video games.

Genese Davis' debut novel The Holder's Dominion (Beaver's Pond Press, March 2013) explores the world of video games from an outsider's perspective. She has been working in the world of video games for the past few years and has started the online movement, The Gamer in You. More information on Genese can be found at her website.


 1) Life Skills Acquired Through Video Games
Video games improve comfort level with professional and social expectations. They require strategy skills, team leadership, problem solving, quick decision-making, delegating responsibility and raising awareness. Building these skills in games can be easily transferred into professional life. Work skills will be enhanced, confidence will grow and leadership skills will develop.

2) Video Games Build Confidence
In video games, the player is the hero. Women must learn to be the hero of their lives. So often, women relinquish this role or downplay their successes. Storylines in video games empower women to believe in themselves and give direct and immediate feedback, i.e., "We couldn't have won without you," and "Thank you so much, you saved us!" As simple as this sounds, this positive reinforcement can do wonders for your confidence.

3) Video Games Benefit Relationships (Shocking but True!)
Healthy and content relationships blossom when both partners take a proactive interest in each other's lifestyle. Even if video games are not your "cup of tea" right now, give one a try. You may be surprised how many positive and artistic attributes are uncovered. Video games offer couples a hobby to explore together. Time playing a video game together is time well spent. Couples can bond while playing video games because they are interacting on new micro and macro levels. Communication improves when playing video games together much more than when watching television or movies. Video games require adaptation and quick decision-making. Video games will constantly challenge the player and can significantly improve brain function.

4) Video Games are NOT Just For Men
When we hear the term "video game players," people often think of a throng of children, or a group of men. However, the average age of every video game player is thirty-three. Video games are an important form of entertainment for all ages. In fact, video games offer crucial validation for women and men.

5) Video Games Enhance Social Behavior
Video games are a way for women to discover new perspectives, meet new people, hear new theories, and discuss new topics.

6) Video Games Are Healthy
All humans need time to unwind. When we relax, our minds have the chance to process our daily stress and to rejuvenate. Additionally, more and more video games are being created for overall health and wellness Video games give people the means to enhance their lives.

A 2011 study conducted by scientists at Brigham and Young proved that video game exercise can help achieve physical wellness. Active video games such as Dance Dance Revolution and Wii Boxing allow players to experience enough exercise to meet recommendations for physical health. Georgetown University researchers conducted a separate study on overweight teenagers in Washington, D.C., using the Wii version of Sports Active. They found that children who played various games felt better about themselves, lost weight and developed increased focus necessary for academic achievement.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Spotlight on ... The Holder's Dominion

The Holder's Dominion
by Genese Davis

Publisher: Beaver's Pond Books
Release Date: March 1, 2013
ISBN: 978-1-59298-580-7
Pages 382
Action Adventure
Trade Paperback

Available for pre-order ... and early arrival at the publisher!


Description: After her father’s death on a mountain rescue mission, Kaylie Ames watched her family shatter. She fled Tacoma for college in faraway Austin, figuring that even the worst campus drama would be a relief. But when her old friend Elliott turns up on his knees in the grocery store aisle, raving about something called a morphis, Kaylie feels compelled to enter Elliott’s unfamiliar world.

Guided by Elliott and his friends, Kaylie signs on to the massively popular online game Edannair. There she discovers a world of beautiful vistas and magical creatures, where people from all over the globe step into the roles of warriors on fantastical quests. But a real-world evil threatens the players: the mysterious Holder, leader of the elite team known as Sarkmarr, is coercing his followers into traumatic offline dares known as “morphis assignments.” To save her friends, Kaylie must infiltrate Sarkmarr and survive the Holder’s tests.

Will she find the courage there to hold her real-world family together?

~*~*~*~

There will be three more books in the series and she's working on the screenplay!

The Holder's Dominion should be available in print and electronic formats at ... amazon, Barnes&Noble, apple, and as always...check your favorite Indie bookstore.

Genese (Ja-niece) Davis holds a B.A. in English from the University of Texas at Austin. Davis is also the owner of The Gamer In You, an online movement offering new meaning to the word ‘gamer.’ She lives in Irvine, California. Genese came to gaming pretty late in life. She wanted to write for gamers and non-gamers alike about the unpredictable and influential ways that video games change us. She wanted to share with others the amazing experience of collaborative video games and the communities that grow up in and around them.

Check out her website about page.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Monday, February 4, 2013

Happy Monday

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

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 January's host: Lori's Reading Corner
February's host: Unabridged Chick

Received for Review:


Giveaway/Contest/Gift:


from Author:


Purchased/delivered:


added to my ereader: (kindle app, html, etc.)
Camelot & Vine by Petrea Burchard

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:
Knee High by the Fourth of July by Jess Lourey
The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner
Dogs Don't Lie by Clea Simon
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julia Romp
Black List by Brad Thor
Beginner's Running Guide by Hal Hidgon
Deadly Politics by Maggie Sefton (not her knitting series so we'll see)

A N D . . .
Last I checked, am #4 on the waiting list for The Casual Vacancy, #288 for Gone Girl, #14 for Shadow Woman, and next for Dream Eyes AND Dark Storm. #3 for Ready Player One and #48 Killing Floor by Lee Child. Wondering if I'll still want to read them once it's my turn?



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 Runaway Shopping Cart by Kathy Long

Books stacked by my reading chair (clean slate for the year):
Worth the Weight by Mara Jacobs
The Blue Zone
The Weight of Deeds by Eli Thorpe
Howard's Gift by Eric C. Sinoway with Merill Meadow
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
The Cat Who Came Back for Christmas by Julia Romp
Black List by Brad Thor


Next up:
The Holder's Dominion by Genese Davis
Cat and the Lady Killer by Lisa Orchard
Finding the Voice Inside You by Jill Birth
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead


Reviewed:



Did Not Finish, may try again later:


Happy Reading!


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Sunday, February 3, 2013

A Week in Review




Fun, Fitness,  Family,
Television and Movies, 
maybe a book or two. 
A weekly report of what's been happening in my real-world life.

All my days have blurred together but I suppose that's to be expected when sleep is so out of whack. I'm getting 8-10 hours a day but it's in multiple sessions. grrr  I've got an appointment with a doc next month and I'm hoping she can help. Let me see if I can remember what happened this week...

Sunday - Church. My first sharing time, ever! Three primary presidents and I've never had to actually do the sharing time. I was horrible but the kids were attentive and seemed to get something out the lesson. I'm sure I'll be doing it one more time, hopefully with improvement!

Monday - Cancelled the training session as I assumed I'd be asleep. Nope. I don't think I did anything today.

Tuesday - Mr. Squeakers died today. We've had this rabbit for so long I thought he was going to live forever! Soon after Daughter moved into her current apartment, she took the rabbit to live with her. She found him in the morning. :-( 

Normally, she'd bring him home to us, to be added to the rest but she had him cremated. She'll get a clay imprint of his paw and a beautiful cedar box with his remains.

We also did lunch and some shopping. She was borrowing our car so she brought me home and stayed to visit. Even talked about getting another bunny. We told her to check Craig's List after Easter. 

Wednesday - Beautiful day today! Having Lunch with my parents, heading to the grocery store and attending my second Diabetic class. Still working on the "Plate Method" and avoiding all the good stuff that I love. sigh. The good news is that the work is showing up on the scale! I'm so excited. The numbers are solidly belong the next 5 without using licorice and while on my period! Yeah, TMI but I'm so excited!!

Did some cardio at home :-D

Just because it says sugar-free doesn't mean carb-free! Check your labels

Thursday - I don't think I did anything today except TV

Friday - Today looks much like yesterday ;-)

Saturday -

Movies - Mission Impossible II

Television - Biggest Loser, Bones, Doctor Who, Criminal Minds, Numb3rs, 

Other Thoughts




Have a great week



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013

Saturday, February 2, 2013

Saturday Snapshot and Quote

Saturday Snapshot
hosted by Alyce at At Home with Books

To participate in the Saturday Snapshot meme, post a photo that you (or a friend or family member) have taken then leave a direct link to your post in the Mister Linky. Photos can be old or new, and be of any subject as long as they are clean and appropriate for all eyes to see. How much detail you give in the caption is entirely up to you. Please don't post random photos that you find online.

I walked into my bedroom and heard Sneakers meow. He wasn't on the bed, looked on the floor on the other side...nope. Weird. Where was he? Moved the laundry basket that was sitting on a hamper and...

I'm so glad it wasn't filled with clean clothes! And yes, he's done that before.


Duly Quoted
Hosted at Today's Adventure
Does anyone know what happened to Today's Adventure?


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2013
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.