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!)
Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Challenge - Dewey Decimal

2012 
Dewey Decimal
Challenge


hosted by the Introverted Reader, sign-ups and more information, here.

The main thing to know... read non-fiction. Any and all non-fiction count.

There are levels and I'm going for

Explorer

and hope to read 6-10 non-fiction books. The good news is that I've already completed the requirements for Dilettante!

~ Books Read ~
1.  A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas (Jan)
2. How Lego Built a Comeback by the Editors of New Word City (Feb)
3. The Gardner Heist by Ulrich Boser (Apr) ~ review
4. 28 Days to Hope for Your Home by Dana White (May)
5. The Blind Side by Michael Lewis (May)
6. Natural Running by Danny Abshire with Brian Metzler (Aug)
~1st goal complete ~
Aug 5
7. Mile Markers by Kristin Armstrong (Aug)
8. An Accidental Athlete by John "The Penguin" Bingham (Aug)
9. Running on Empty by Marshall Ulrich (Sep)
10. The Runner's Rule Book by Mark Remy (Sep)
~ Challenge Complete ~
September 21


wow, I didn't realize I had read six! That's okay, the memoirs I need to read for another challenge will count here plus I'm hoping to read a couple more fitness/running/health type books. Dare I hope to read 11?


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Thoughts on...Liver Let Die by Liz Lipperman

I had high hopes for this book but it took me just over a week to read it. The writing was nice and I loved the storyline. It's just that I knew a key piece of information very early (which doesn't usually happen) plus, there were places that felt like a cheesy horror movie....you know, when the actor goes to do something that you know will end up badly. I really wanted to shake some sense into Jordan.

I may be a little harsh, after all the author did engage me with a great cast of characters. There was a twist I didn't see coming and didn't feel rushed at the end. I'll still be handing this one off but will have no problem picking up the next in the series.


Disclaimer: I purchased this title for myself. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of author and publisher


Liver Let Die
A Clueless Cook Mystery
by Liz Lipperman


publisher: Berkley Prime Crime Mystery
ISBN: 978-0425244043
date published: October 2011
format: Mass Market Paperback
genre: Cozy Mystery
pages: 264 plus recipes
ages: 18+
Grade: C


Product Description:
Jordan McAllister dreams of becoming a popular sports columnist but gets stuck in a po-dunk town writing personal ads for a small time newspaper. When she's offered a chance to fill in for a local food critic off on sick leave, she jumps at the chance rationalizing that it's one step closer to her dream. However, when a dead body is found underneath her apartment stairwell with her name and number along with it, she becomes the prime suspect, as well as the main course on the murder menu.
Challenges

150+
One Million Pages
Cruisin' thru the Cozies
Mystery & Suspense
Off the Shelf
Mt. TBR
Foodies
What an Animal
Where are you Reading? (Texas)
Read & Review
Cozy Mystery

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Challenge - Girl Power

I wasn't going to do it but she said I could count books already read this year, so.....

Girl Power
2012
hosted by Vicki at The Wolf's Den

sign up
here


Check out the sign up page for complete information as well as author and title suggestions but the basics are:
Read books where the female is NOT a damsel in distress.

There are levels! I'm going for Dame and hope to read 5 books. I may want to read more but don't know if I have time.

Possibilities: more Claiming the Crown books, Harper Trilogy, Alanna, Wild Magic, First Test, ...


Books read:
1. The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens
2. Princess in Peril by Rachelle McCalla
3. Protecting the Princess by Rachelle McCalla
4. Quinn by R.C. Ryan (review planned)
5. His of Death by Rita Mae Brown & Sneaky Pie

First three all the books have damsels in distress but the women kick a$$ before/during/after their rescue. Book 5...the animals help ;)

~Challenge Complete~
April 12


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Thoughts on...A Place to Die by Dorothy James

Just a quick note....I'm on vacation, and away from internet access, the week before this is due....if you can read this sentence, I goofed up! Don't you love the cover? My copy is very glossy and the colors pop.

I'm such a mood reader that my feelings toward the book and ultimately my review, are greatly affected by my mood. On the other hand, a good book can turn around a sour mood. It remains to be seen what happens next.....

This was not a good vacation book for me, I was easily distracted with games and talk so my first intro to the book was horrible!

I don't think I like Eleanor and I know I don't like Franz. I'm liking Georg so while the book starts with Eleanor as the "main character" it is a George Buchner book and I have high hopes.

off to read some more......

This does not read like a first in the series. Not to say that I feel I'm missing something but rather the characters are well developed and "fleshed out" as if they've been around a while. I still don't think I like Eleanor but I like her a little more now than earlier. Still don't like Franz. There have been a couple of twists and I'm looking forward to seeing how they turn out. Unfortunately, I will not be finished before the review is posted. (darn that real life-I'll update the review). When I first started reading I was a little miffed at all the descriptions but as I'm farther along, realized they were very necessary to show the differences between all the have-a-lots.

Each chapter has a bit of an introduction and is broken up into sections. I like the sections but sometimes reading the into throws me out of my head space. So far the book is a definite C and I know just the friend to hand it off too. I will add this author to my "read these" list but she may not be the first one reached for.

liking this, off to read some more......

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 Tribute Books.


A Place to Die
An Inspector Georg Buchner Mystery
by Dorothy James


publisher: Xlibris Corporation
ISBN: 9781450082693
Trade Paperback
Release: April 21, 2010
Mystery
436 pages



Product Description:
Eleanor and Franz Fabian arrive from New York to spend Christmas with Franz's mother in her sedate retirement home in the Vienna Woods. Their expectations are low: at best, boredom, at worst, run-of-the-mill family friction. But when the wealthy, charming Herr Graf is found dead in his apartment with an ugly head wound, the Fabians are thrust into a homicide investigation.

Some residents and staff have surprising connections to the dead man, but who would have wanted to kill him? Inspector Buchner tracks down the murderer against a backdrop of Viennese history from the Nazi years to the present day. Witty, suspenseful, lyrical, this is a literary whodunit that will keep you guessing till the last page.



Available at Amazon: paperback or Kindle. Also available in Hardcover

Available at Barnes & Noble: paperback or Nook

and at the iBookstore



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Thoughts on...Time Slice by Kerry Downing

This will be a partial review. While I may have the book read by the deadline, I'm away from the internet and can't update but will do so as soon as I can. ;)

First, I really, really don't like the daughter. So daddy wasn't around when you were little, boo hoo....he's here now and is trying but you have such a chip on your shoulder, you resent the time he spends with his grandchild. Your daughter! Good heavens woman, grow up!

Okay. Now that that's off my chest ;) I hope she does.

Where I'm at has too much technical jargon but I don't see Roy accepting anything less so I'm struggling through it.

Emily's doctor has asked her to start a diary and I'm loving her entries. Great way to get inside a character's head.

Looking forward to finishing the book.....wishing I had planned better.

I still don't like Ann (daughter) but I love her husband and their daughter.

....off to read some more!

Finished.

Satisfied.

Once Roy doesn't need to explain, the technical jargon goes away and the story become fast-paced and slightly dangerous. Still not sure I like Ann. Loved Emily.

Grade: B


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 Tribute Books.


Time Slice
by Kerry Downing

Camel Press
June 2011
ISBN: 9781603818520
Paperback
age: 14+? 16+? anyone interested in the science behind the traveling may enjoy this
Contemporary Fantasy (alternate reality)
256 pages


Product Description:
Ordinary People. Extraordinary Adventures. Science Fiction with Heart.

Newly retired workaholic Roy Washburn is not ready for a life of leisure. On a trip to the mall with his wife, he finds a small metal cylinder with odd markings. One nudge of the cylinder's triangle-shaped pointer and Roy finds himself embarking on an exciting new adventure in the Time Stream.

There he meets The Traveler, a tall, gangly being who shows Roy how to use the cylinder to visit other civilizations that co-exist on "his" Earth, each occupying a different, thin Time Slice. The Traveler solicits Roy's help in recovering an object invented by his murdered father and beyond his own reach. Roy is his last hope.

At first it seems that the Traveler's wish might be easily granted. But after Roy's wife Emily becomes ill and his daughter's long-held resentments rise to the surface, he can no longer "travel" at a moment's notice. He also discovers the very real physical and mental risks involved in roaming the Time Stream.

Despite the dangers, Roy is determined to help the Traveler. But he can't do it alone. Fortunately he has a loving wife and a core group of loyal friends. But first he must convince them--and his daughter--that he isn't crazy ...

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Challenge - What an Animal V

.... tapping my feet waiting for March 1!

What an Animal V
Mar 1, 2012- Feb 28, 2013
hosted by Yvonne at its own blog

sign up
here


Check out the sign up page for complete information but the basics are:
Read six books that have an animal....on the cover, in the title, plays a major role, Main character is an animal or shifts.
Possibilities:


Books read:
1. cover - Rainshadow Road by Lisa Kleypas (butterfly)
2. title - A SEAL in Wolf's Clothing by Terry Spear (Navy SEAL wolf shifter)
3. major role cover - Liver Let Die by Liz Lipperman (duck)
4. is an animal/shifts - Squeak and a Roar by Joyee Flynn (mouse & lion shifters)
5. cover - Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis (cat, parrot & dog)
6. cover - Animal Magnetism by Jill Shalvis (dog, goose, & pig)
7. cover - Welcome Home Cowboy by Eden Cole (horse)
8. shifts/cover/title - The Dragon & His Houseboy by Crymsyn Hart (dragon, phoenix)

9. major role - Hiss of Death by Rita Mae & Sneaky Pie (animals help protect main character)

um, I'm using Liver Let Die as major role because duck liver plays a HUGE role in the story....as in, no Foie gras, no story! I do have a new Mrs. Murphy cozy....dog and two cats with major roles! ok, ok, Liver Let Die was stretching it!

~Challenge Complete~
April 12
10. cover - Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey (fire lizards)
11.



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Sunday, January 29, 2012

Challenge - The Month of Letters


The Month of Letters Challenge
February 2012
hosted by Mary Robinette Kowal
I have a simple challenge for you.
1. In the month of February, mail at least one item through the post every day it runs. Write a postcard, a letter, send a picture, or a cutting from a newspaper, or a fabric swatch.

2. Write back to everyone who writes to you. This can count as one of your mailed items.

All you are committing to is to mail 24 items. Why 24? There are four Sundays and one US holiday. In fact, you might send more than 24 items. You might develop a correspondence that extends beyond the month. You might enjoy going to the mail box again.

Feeling intimidated? It’s fewer words than NaNoWriMo and I know how many of you do that. Join me in The Month of Letters Challenge.



Snail mail! I found this on Cindy's Love of Books. I'll be away from the post office for a week during February but I still think this is fabulous! I have a couple of aunts and a SIL plus some out of town friends that deserve a letter. Send me your address (bookdragonslair at gmail dot com) if you want a post card!



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Thoughts on...Nitt Witt Hill by Sebastian Gibson

Read this book twice.

Once because it's funny as all get out and a second time because there is a grain of truth in each chapter. I had to double check that this is really a novel! This is politics taken to the absurd level and told from a comedians point to view.

You'll laugh at Joe Homeland, he "operates a modest security firm", and his alert about what is really interfering with aircraft navigation and communications equipment. Then you'll cringe when the warning is taken seriously enough for there to be Senate Hearings on the subject.

I'd really love to tell you all the funny jokes and bad puns but I just can't, read this excerpt and you'll see why. There are 54 chapters in this novel and most are around five pages. Just enough to get you to laugh...then hopefully you'll think about it. I don't know if that was the author's intention but this is a timely novel to be reading leading up to elections in the United States.

I'm only at chapter 32 as I write this because I'm having a hard time reading it straight through. I'll read several chapters, think a bit before escaping into real-life or a different book, then come back.

.....off to read some more!

Currently at chapter 48 and I really wish there wasn't so much truth in this novel. Non-Americans are going to think Americans are idiots. Maybe we are.

.....off to read some more!

LOVE how this ends!


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 amazon and the author's website


Nitt Witt Hill
by Sebastian Gibson

publisher: Sebastian Gibson Publishing
release date: February 2012
ISBN: 978-0984777624
format: Trade paperback
political humor
248 pages

Grade: B

as for age...I'd say 14+, use your own judgement, this is a political book but I say if they're interested, let them read it.

Product Description:
What's causing the country and now the President to lose their crackers and voters to elect Nitt Witts? Clowns and Turkeys are running Congress and the Nitt Witts are everywhere. But will one more Clown in Congress make any difference? Would the country be better off with some real Turkeys instead of those Clowns? Or are the Nitt Witts destined to run Washington? Set on historic Nitt Witt Ridge in Cambria, California and Capitol Hill in Washington D.C., Sebastian Gibson's satire paints the absurdities of the political world and of daily life with his unique sense of humor. The top political parties have degenerated into the Nitt Witts, the Turkeys and the Clown Party and the country is becoming deranged. Unless Mark Twain (Mark, a political consultant and his dog, Twain) can determine what's making people so neurotic and make sense of the madness, riots may cause the country's collapse. The Clowns are running for office with the slogan, "One more Clown in Congress probably won't make any difference." The Turkey candidates are running against the Clowns with their counter slogan, "Isn't it time we had some real Turkeys in office instead of those Clowns?" But it's the Nitt Witt Party who may have the most appeal to voters with their slogan, "Elect a Nitt Witt and see what some real Nitt Witts can do in Washington." Meanwhile, believing a lightweight metal alloy in bras when placed in contact with the wearer's skin is causing electrostatic interference with aircraft navigation equipment and with people themselves, Homeland Security and the Senate take action to prohibit the wearing of bras on airplanes and their sale in America. Still, the situation fails to improve and the country is on the verge of losing its collective mind. With the rhetoric of political parties at a level never seen before ("Turkeys are made for stuffing, Clowns are for Congress") and as protesters riot over the right to wear or go without bras and try to take control of the White House it's up to Mark and his dog Twain to determine the cause of the country's mental imbalance and find a way to save the country. Read the novel that's making Washington laugh so hard, Congress can't accomplish anything. It all begins and ends on Nitt Witt Hill.

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Challenge Complete - Read Your Own Books


Read Your Own Books
Reading Challenge

2012
Hosted at Tales from the Crypt

Challenge Completed
January 16





My original post about the challenge

Quick recap:
Any book that you have personally purchased, been gifted, or swapped, BEFORE January 1, 2012 and just have not gotten the chance to read yet. NO ARCs, library books, re-reads or books purchased in 2012.

Final List:
1. Christmas Haven by Hope White (first book of the year)
2. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn
3. Deep Disclosure by Dee Davis
4. Carrots by Colleen Helme
5. The Ladybug Jinx by Tonya Kappes

This one was bound to be my first one completed, there is another challenge that says ONLY to-be-read books until Feb 1! Of course, last year I didn't make the TBR Dare but so far so good! Don't know if I'll make the whole months, I'm itching to read Anne McCaffrey and re-reads don't count



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Giveaway & Thoughts on...Lifting the Wheel of Karma by Paul H. Magid ~spoiler alert~

One key piece of information was left off the back description and I don't know if it's supposed to be some big surprise or not. That's why the ~spoiler alert~!

I started reading in the car but had to stop due to tears ruining my make-up!

This book is so much more than I though it would be. A boy, dealing with nightmares, traveling to India for help. What I found was a boy, a loving family, vicious nightmares and a tragic accident. That accident is the spoiler for you as Joseph does travel to India but he does it in a wheelchair.

Lifting the Wheel of Karma is not the usual type of book I read. It's one of the things I love about reviewing, the chance to go outside my comfort zone. I expected a quick read, easily read, easily forgotten when I moved on. What I'm finding is that I'm not ready to read the next book. I want to process what I've read first. I feel desire for the same peace Joseph was searching for. I wonder if it is possible to combine the Eastern philosophy he uses with my own Christian beliefs.

There is strength in this book but I also wondered if it could have been shorter. As I was reading, I thought it was too flowery but Paul paints with words and I don't know how he could have left a "color" out of his painting.

I do not know if I could have done as Billy and his parents had done. Joseph's parents kissed him good-bye, not knowing when they'd see him again. Billy dropped him off with a stranger, in a country far away, and walked away not knowing if he'd ever see his beloved brother again.

So, the book is fiction but it reads like truth and there are lessons to be learned. Will you see them? Will you see different ones than I did?

The author's website has pictures of India and Montana as well as the same discussion questions that are in the 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 Tribute Books' blog


Lifting the Wheel of Karma
by Paul H. Magid

Point Dume Press
September 2011
paperback/kindle
young adult
fiction, spirituality
192 pages


Product Description:
Joseph Connell is a gifted high school athlete from Montana, loved deeply by his family, yet tormented by nightmarish visions he can neither explain nor escape.

He believes the answer to what threatens to crush him can be found in the knowledge possessed by a mystical old wise man, who lives deep within the remote Himalayas of India.

If Joseph is ever to find the peace he so desperately seeks, he must get this wise old man to reveal what he truly knows, but that will not be easy....for this sage knows far more than he admits.

Now for the exciting part. Paul will give away 3 copies to my followers! Isn't that great? Just comment with your email. Closing date: January 30 (midnight PST). The winner will need to respond to my email quickly.



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Friday, January 6, 2012

Challenge - Color Coded


The Color Coded Reading Challenge
2012
Hosted by Bev at My Reader's Block
sign up here


Thanks Bev! She wasn't going to host this one again but some asked and ... here it is! Join us again this year! Nine books. Nine colors. Well, seven specific colors plus one other and a word that implies color, such as rainbow or plaid.

Struggled with brown last year but I had four review books to help with the list last year, not sure what I'll be reading this year! I've got two review books off the top of my head that will help...wonder if there are others.

1. Blue

Town in a Blueberry Jam
by B. B. Haywood
2. Red ....Red Alert....
3. Yellow
4. Green
5. Brown
6. Black
7. White


Just a Little White Lie
by Lynette Hallberg

8. another color


Amethyst Moon
by Ann Mayburn
9. implies color

Pieces of a Rainbow
by Maria Savva


1-6: Yea! Two titles chosen....seven more to go....I've got some ideas but wanted to get the initial post up so I could sign up.


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Challenge - All the books of Pern

All the Books of Pern Challenge
2012
hosted at West Virginia Red Reads
sign up here

Rules:
The main rule is that all books must be Pern related (duh!). There are several levels and you can move up but not down. Crossovers okay and any format is acceptable but the books must be read/listened to during 2012. See sign-up page for information.

Levels:
Green - The original trilogy (or any 3)
Blue - The original trilogy plus the Harper Hall trilogy (or any 6)
Brown - Everything with Ms. McCaffrey as sole author (17)
Bronze - Everything except the ones written by Todd alone (22)
Gold -The whole lot of them (24-25)
and if you're not familiar with Pern, challenge levels match dragon colors!

I LOVE Anne McCaffrey and especially Pern but don't know how many I'll read this year (read the Harper Hall trilogy last year), of course, I love the trilogy and I know exactly where they are.....

I'm going for GREEN and will read 3 books (at least!)
not sure if it will be the original trilogy, I may read Harper Hall again


Books Read:
Dragonsong (4-12)
Dragonsinger (4-17)
Dragondrums (4-21)

~Challenge Completed~
April 21
copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Thoughts on...Christmas Haven by Hope White

Just so you know, I have a weakness for Christmas books and so far I've never been disappointed with a Christmas book from Harlequin.

Still not disappointed. ;)

Pay attention to the publisher of this one. This is from Harlequin's Love Inspired imprint so if scripture references or prayer disturbs you, this is not the book for you. I didn't find them to be a distraction (sometimes I do) and most of the prayers were internal. They were a small part of the story, just enough to give you the feel of the characters' character :) without being over the top.

The suspense kept me engaged until it became edge-of-your-seat, the romance was gentle. Julie and Morgan were high school sweethearts until she left their sleepy town ten years ago. No big gush of I-love-yous or mushy scenes. Most of the time Morgan is trying to out-stubborn Julie to keep her safe. The first kiss was on page 102!

There were a couple of coincidences, such as Julie's old boyfriend still being single, a police officer sheriff in her home town, and gosh darn, he just happens to be on the same ferry as her headed home after being in the city. To tell the truth, they happened so smoothly it wasn't until later that I went, 'hey'.

Grade: B....loved it, share with friends and hope you get it back.


Disclaimer: I purchased this book for myself. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and may differ from yours. Book information courtesy of publisher


Christmas Haven
by Hope White

publisher: Harlequin - Love Inspired
ISBN: 978-0-373-44466-3
date published: Nov 2011
format: Mass Market Paperback
genre: Inspirational Romantic Suspense
pages: 221 plus 14 discussion questions
ages: personal guess... 12+ (clean suspense, drug use mentioned, two kisses)


Product Description:
His to Protect

Shock is police captain Morgan Wright's first reaction to seeing his former sweetheart, Julie Burns. But concern soon follows. The lovely social worker left Port Whisper behind years ago. Why is she back...and what's got her so scared?

Her hometown was the only safe place Julie could turn to after witnessing a kidnapping. She didn't count on trouble following her. and she certainly didn't expect to run into Morgan, or to feel that old love rekindle. Morgan wants to help her, and she wants to let him - but now that danger has intruded on her safe haven, everyone's at risk....

Challenges

Harlequin/Silhouette (holiday in the title)
Romantic Suspense
Read & Review
50 States (Washington)
Where are you reading? (Washington)
(TBR-purchased in 2011)
Mt. TBR
Read Your Own Books
The TBR Double Dare
Off the Shelf

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2012

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Winter's Respite Read-a-Thon


A Winter's Respite
Read-a-Thon
January 23 - 29
hosted by Michelle at the True Book Addict

sign up here



Rules:
RaT starts at 12:00 CST on the 23rd and ends at 11:59 CST on the 29th
There will be (a) mini-challenge(s) and a giveaway
book length: Novellas/Novels
Young Adult or Adult (no children's books)

Twitter #WintersRespite


I don't believe I'll need a "week of relaxed reading" but I do need a kick start on my TBR pile! I hope to get at least one review book read & reviewed during the week. I'm assuming, but will double check, that by children's books, she means picture books, early readers, and beginning chapter books.

Will need to do updates (blog and/or Twitter) and a wrap-up post. do not currently have a possibilities list.

me at Twitter #bookdragonslair


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

2012 Challenges

ALL open Challenges for 2012

Welcome! Each name is a link to my post about the challenge/s. That is where you'll find where it is hosted, what the basic requirements are, the time frame and my progress/list of books. Or a link to wherever my book list is.

Grrr...trying something new this year, not sure if it's working

edited to add:
Open Challenges link


Read-a-Thon
Jan: Winter's Respite
Apr: Dewey's 24-Hour
Apr: Pick Your Thon & Spring into Horror
May: Bout of books
June: Pick-Your-Thon
June: 48 Hour Book Challenge at MotherReader
June: Wicked Wildfire
Summer: Shelf Discovery Reading Project Jun 4 to Aug 20 ~ failed ;-)
July: Once Upon a Read-a-Thon (9th to 11th)
July: High Summer (July 16 - 22)
July/August: Summer Read-a-Thing (7-26/8-2)
August: Summer Wrap-Up Read-a-Thon (4-12)
August: Pick-Your-Thon at The Book Monsters (13-18)
August: Bout of Books 5.0 (13-19)
Aug/Sep: Back to School (8-27/9-2)
September: BBAW (10-14)
September/October: R.I.P.  
September/October: Banned Books Week (9-30/10-6)
October:  Two Read-a-Thons - FrightFall  (1-7) and Fraterfest (5-8)
Oct: Dewey's 24-Hour

Reading Challenge Addict!

Keeping track of number/format
150+
Two ebooks challenges
One Million Pages Read

Location
50 States & Where are you reading?

Genre specific
Art :: Cozies, Suspense, Criminal Plots:: Dewey Decimal :: Dystopia :: General :: Memoirs :: Mind Voyages :: Paranormal :: Romance :: RIP (upcoming) ::
Author/series specific
Harry Potter :: Chronicles of Narnia :: Dean Koontz :: Game of Thrones :: Pern

To-Be-Read
Mt. TBR :: Read Your Own Book :: Off the Shelf :: Double Dare :: The Unread Book

Free Books
Free Reads :: Why Buy the Cow?

Whittle Down Your Perpetual TBR List
100 Best Novels :: 101 Fantasy :: Cedar Cove :: Cardathon (Orson Scott) :: Disney Lit :: Landover :: Banned Books :: PB&J :: Prey :: Redwall
Specific Requirements
Harlequin :: Color Coded :: Foodies :: What's in a Name :: What an Animal V :: Read Your Name :: Toss Me a Frosty One :: Girl Power :: Spring Reading Challenge :: Summer Book Challenge :: Summer Reading Challenge :: Big Book Summer :: Dewey Decimal ::



52-52-52, 6-1-12
52-52-52 (6-2-12/6-1-13)
Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks & A to Z mini-challenge
Monthly Mix-up Mania, 3-31-13
ALA's Top Ten Banned/Challenged books of 2010, 4-1-12 ~completed 4-13-12
ALA's Top Ten Banned/Challenged books of 2011, 4-1-13ish
ARC
Alex Awards
Fall into Reading, 9-22/12-21
Getting Lost in a Comfortable Book
Read & Review
Spring Reading Thing & Spring Reading Challenge
Review Copy Wipeout, 10-1/12-31



PLUS, 10 perpetual challenges, several upcoming challenges, three I'm still thinking about and 38+ I decided against!

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

The End is Near



Challenge 1: Dystopia at Bookish Ardour
I'll be Asocial and will read 5 books.

Challenge 2: Read Dystopia at Book Journey
I'm a Beginner and plan to read 1-3 books
Possible prizes!

Dystopian Description

Dystopian Societies - Themed Book List
Part One, (A - L)
Part Two, (M - Z)

Sheila/Book Journey also has a list.

15 recommended novels from Bookish Ardour

Possiblilities:
Hunger Games trilogy,


Books Read:
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (4-13)
2. Xenofreak Nation by Melissa Conway (5-26)
3.
4.
5.



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

It's All About the FREE baby!

I have downloaded so many free books that are never read, this is perfect! When someone wants to give me a gift but doesn't know what, I get a bookstore giftcard :D I've also won several books that count.



Challenge 1: Free Reads at Bookish Ardour
Any book that you own but did NOT purchase. Gifts, ARCs, and contest winners count but library books do not. I'm going for For Me? and plan to read 5 books. I can move up, but not down.
1. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn (free download)
2. Deep Disclosure by Dee Davis (gift)
3. Carrots by Colleen Helme (free download)
4. Nitt Witt Hill by Sebastian Gibson (ARC)
5. The Book of Deacon by Joseph Lallo (free download)

~Challenge Completed~
February 10

Blood Oath - planned




Challenge 2: Why Buy the Cow? at The Unread Reader
No library books, books you've won, or ARCs. This is strictly for ebooks you've downloaded LEGALLY for FREE. I'm going to be a Coupon Clipper and read 12 Books.
1. The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn
2. Carrots by Colleen Helme
3. The Book of Deacon by Joseph Lallo
4. How Lego Built a Comeback by the editors of New Word City
5. Pieces of a Rainbow by Maria Savva
6. Blood Faerie by India Drummond
7. Seduced by the Wolf by Terry Spear
8. Amy's Adventure by Mark & Victoria Freeman
9. Cowboy Billy and the Smelly Bank Robber by  Lily Lexington
10. Oscar's First Bicycle by Vincent Cornell
11. Death by a Honeybee by Abigail Keam
12. Bearing All by Tiffinie Helmer


copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Challenge - Harlequin Books

Harlequin/Silhouette Reading Challenge
2012
hosted by Evy at Islandgirl reads Romance

sign up here


Rules:
The main rule is that ALL the book must come from Harlequin (Mira counts!). Visit Harlequin's store online and anything you can purchase there (but you don't have to) can be used for the challenge, provided it has one of the following requirements.
1. The name of a place in the title (country, small city or town)
2. A weather condition in the title (snow, rain, storm etc.)
3. A Title must be in the title of the book (Prince, Countess, etc)
4. The author's first or last name beginning with the letter M
5. A Holiday/Season in the title (Valentine, Christmas, Summer, etc)
6. A color must be in the title (red, blue, green etc)

Every year, one of the requirements stumps me. Wonder which one will do me in this time?

Possibilities (all are Mira):
The Perfect Christmas by Debbie Macomber
Against the Storm by Kat Martin
The Widows of Wichita County by Jodi Thomas
The Summer We Came to Life by Deborah Cloyed
Blue Twilight by Maggie Shayne
Paradise Valley by Robin Carr - own
Orchard Valley Brides by Debbie Macomber
The Bikini Car Wash by Pamela Morsi
Little Town, Great Big Life by Curtiss Ann Matlock
Hannah's List by Debbie Macomber - own
Waking Up in Charleston by Sherryl Woods
The Winter Lodge by Susan Wiggs (also What's in a name)
Queene of Light by Jennifer Armintrout (also Paranormal)
Protecting the Princess by Rachelle McCalla (Feb12)


Books Read:
1. Place Name - Virgin River by Robyn Carr
2. Weather - Winter Knights by Harper Fox
3. Title - Princess in Peril by Rachelle McCalla
4. "M" - Protecting the Princess by Rachelle McCalla
5. Holiday/Season - Christmas Haven by Hope White (1st book of the year!)
6. Color - Just a Little White Lie by Lynette Hallberg

~Challenge Completed~
April 20

copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Romance is in the Air!





Who can resist a good romance? I can't!













Challenge 1: Sports Romance at Crazy Book Slut

Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Read romance with a strong sports related element. I know I have a couple on my wish list and several that I've read. There are several levels but I'm going for Pee Wee and plan to read 1-3 books.

sign up here*
*this is an "adult" blog so you'll need to okay that you really want to go there.

Books Read:
1. Taking Love in Stride by Donna Fasano
2. Dance with Me by Heidi Cullinan
3. Home Ice by Kate Sherwood
possibility...Line of Scrimmage, Taking Love in Stride, Home Ice

~Challenge Complete~
April 7



Challenge 2: Paranormal Romance at Tales from the Crypt

Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Romance with a strong paranormal element. Shifter, psi abilities, Vampires, etc... I enjoy this sub-genre but am still going for level 1 and plan to read 1-5 books.

Sign-up here

Books Read:
1. Under the Willow by Kari Jo Spear
2. Amethyst Moon by Ann Mayburn
3. The Longest Stride by TA Chase
4. Levi by Bailey Bradford
5. Trinity by Deena Remiel
~Challenge Complete~
February 25
Possibilities....Kiss of Snow


Challenge 3: Romantic Suspense at The Eclectic Bookshelf

Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Romance books that have a strong suspense element. I'm going for level 1 and hope to read 4 books.

Sign up here

Books Read:
1. Christmas Haven by Hope White (1st book of the year!)
2. Deep Disclosure by Dee Davis
3. A Seal in Wolf's Clothing by Terry Spear
4. Princess in Peril by Rachelle McCalla
Possibilities.... Deep Disclosure, ...

~Challenge Complete~
April 7



Challenge 4: Romance at The Eclectic Bookshelf

Time Frame: 2012

Basic Requirements: Romance. Any kind of romance.

sign up here

Books Read:
1. The Ladybug Jinx
2. Virgin River by Robyn Carr
3. Hidden Summit by Robyn Carr
4. Wife by Wednesday by Catherine Bybee
Possibilities....The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae, plus all the other romance challenge books ;)

~Challenge Complete~
February 4



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011

Monday, December 12, 2011

Challenge - Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks & A to Z (titles)

Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks
Reading Challenge
2012
hosted by Robin at 52 Books in 52 Weeks

sign up here

Rules:
The goal is to read 52 books. How you get there is up to you.

There is a little bit more to it than that and there are Mini-Challenges so check out the blog and happy reading!


The hard part is reading one a week, 52 a year is no problem. I'm also doing this as a personal goal but I like linking my reviews ;)



Week 1: Christmas Haven by Hope White (1-4)
Week 2 The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn (1-9)
week 3 Carrots by Colleen Helme (1-16)
week 4 Nitt Witt Hill by Sebastian Gibson (1-24)
week 5 Hidden Summit by Robyn Carr (1-30)
week 6 Opening Moves by Sean Michael (2-5)
week 7 The Longest Stride by TA Chase (2-12)
week 8 Temptation Ridge by Robyn Carr (2-20)
week 9 The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens (2-28)
week 10 The Unlikely Wife by Debra Ullrick (3-4)
week 11 Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis (3-12)
week 12 Dance with Me by Heidi Cullinan (3-19)
week 13 A SEAL in Wolf's Clothing by Terry Spear (3-25)
week 14 Redwood Bend by Robyn Carr (4-5)
week 15 Pieces of a Rainbow by Maria Savva (4-8)
week 16 The Gardner Heist by Ulrich Boser (4-16)
week 17 Nobody's Safe by Richard Steinberg (4-24)
week 18 Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank (4-29)
week 19 Zero Day by David Baldacci (5-6)
week 20 The Candlestone by Bryan Davis (5-13)
week 21 The Blind Side by Michael Lewis (5-22)
week 22 Hard Tail by JL Merrow (5-27)
week 23 Dragon's Keep by Janet Lee Carey (6-7)
week 24 Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn (6-11)
week 25 Stealing Home by Sherryl Woods (?)
week 26 The Familiars by Adam Jay Epstein and Andrew Jacobson(6-29)
week 27 Catching Fireflies by Sherryl Woods (?)
week 28 Chasing Perfect by Susan Mallery (7-13)
week 29 Protect and Defend by Vince Flynn (7-17)
week 30 Home in Carolina by Sherryl Woods (7-23)
week 31 The Long Stitch Good Night by Amanda Lee (7-30)
week 32 Sweet Tea at Sunrise by Sherryl Woods (8-5)
week 33 Edge of Forever by Sherryl Woods (8-13)
week 34 Dream Lake by Lisa Kleypas (8-19)
week 35 Kill Shot by Vince Flynn (8-26)
week 36 A Soldier's Fate by D.L Warner (9-2)
week 37 Courting Carolina by Janet Chapman (9-9)
week 38 Don't Ask, Don't Tell by Sean Michael
week 39 Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
week 40 50/50: Secrets I Learned Running 50 Marathons in 50 Days-and How You Too Can Achieve Super Endurance! by Dean Karnazes with Matt Fitzgerald  
week 41 Run! 26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss by Dean Karnazes
week 42 The Barefoot Running Book by Jason Robillard
week 43
week 44
week 45
week 46
week 47
week 48
week 49
week 50
week 51
week 52









Mini-Challenge: A to Z (title or author)
A - Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis
B - The Hawk and His Boy by Christopher Bunn
C - Carrots by Colleen Helme
D - Deep Disclosure by Dee Davis
E - The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens
F - Spellbound Falls by Janet Chapman
G - Great Short Poems edited by Paul Negri
H - Christmas Haven by Hope White
I - The Ice Dragon by George R. R. Martin
J - The Ladybug Jinx by Tonya Kappes
K - Copycat Killing by Sofie Kelly
L - How Lego Built a Comeback by the editors of New Word City
M - Animal Magnetism by Jill Shalvis
N - Nitt Witt Hill by Sebastian Gibson
O - Opening Moves by Sean Michael
P - Princess in Peril by Rachelle McCalla
Q - Quinn by R.C. Ryan
R - Temptation Ridge by Robyn Carr
S - Hidden Summit by Robyn Carr
T - A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas
U - Under the Willow by Kari Jo Spear
V - Virgin River by Robyn Carr
W - The Unlikely Wife by Debra Ullrick
X - Xenofreak Nation by Melissa Conway
Y - When You Call My Name by Sharon Sala
Z - Zero Day by David Baldacci



copyright Book Dragon's Lair 2009-2011
Disclaimer

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