Kara's Book Challenges

Fatal Affair - Marie Force

2010-06-22T10:45:00.000-04:00

Title: Fatal Affair
Author: Marie Force
Publisher: Carina Press
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 406 (eBook)
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Fatal Series - Book #1

This book has it all...suspense and intrigue, sizzling passion, witty dialogue, and great characters. I was so excited when Marie Force contacted me and asked me to read and review her book. I love her writing and really enjoyed the other two books I've read of hers...Line of Scrimmage and Love at First Flight. She has a way of telling a story that grabs a hold of you, draws you into the story, and doesn't let go until the last page is read. Her characters are real, and their emotions run deep.

When Nick Cappuano walks in and finds his boss, Senator O'Connor, murdered in his bed, her never dreams that he will come into contact with the woman that he had a one night stand with six years earlier. Detective Samantha Holland needs to solve this case in order to restore her stellar career after a disastrous stand-off ending in a child being killed. What she doesn't need is the distraction of Nick...and what a distraction he is to her body, heart, and mind. After the bodies begin stacking up, Nick and Sam race against time to find the killer, as well as try to figure out what to do about the intense attraction they have for one another.

Nick's past is a painful one...yet he doesn't shut himself off from experiencing all he can with Sam. He is devoted to his best friend, Senator O'Connor, and is determined to find out who killed him. He is a bit OCD, and his dedication to his work, friends, and Sam is unwavering. He makes the perfect hero.

Sam has her troubles too. Her self-confidence is shaken in the aftermath of a child being killed on her watch. She has personal problems that she doesn't let overshadow her determination. She is devoted to her family, and has a strong personality and work ethic. She is the perfect match for Nick. I also love the banter between Sam and her partner.

One thing to note about this book...it is only available in eBook format. However, if you have been wanting to try this format...Fatal Affair is a fantastic one to read.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 5/5
Pages: 406 (eBook)
Completed: 6/16/10

Bad Blogger Award!!!

2010-06-18T10:22:00.000-04:00

I get the Bad Blogger Award for the month!! I'm sorry I haven't posted any reviews lately...have been busy over at my other blog World According to Books...participating in the Bloggiesta event last weekend and trying to get ahead in reviews over there.

This weekend is devoted to this blog!!! I have several fantastic books to review and I want to do a little housecleaning here. Maybe even do a new template design!!

Here are some of the reviews you can look forward to next week:

Fatal Affair by Marie Force (excellent romantic suspense)
Broken by Shiloh Walker (fantastic romantic suspense)
Naked Edge by Pamela Clare (another fantastic romantic suspense)
The Girl on Legare Street by Karen White (a little paranormal thrown in - ghosts)
Suddenly One Summer by Barbara Freethy (contemporary romance - angels)

Another happening around here that I am so excited about...Marie Force will be joining me next week at World According to Books for an author interview!! I can't wait for that...she is super sweet and an excellent author. Her two print books are Line of Scrimmage and Love at First Flight. Her newest book will be released on June 21, 2010 from Carina Press in eBook format...Fatal Affair. All her books are fantastic, and if you haven't tried an eBook...Fatal Affair would be a great one to initiate you into that format.

So look for some reviews on some great books and my first author interview next week!!!

Instant Attraction - Jill Shalvis

2010-05-21T13:30:00.000-04:00

Title: Instant Attraction
Author: Jill Shalvis
Publisher: Kensington Brava
Published: 2009
Pages: 302
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Wilder Brothers - Book #1

There is just something about Jill Shalvis' writing that warms my heart, makes me laugh (in a good way), and brings tears to my eyes. Her characters endear themselves to me so that I think about them long after I have read her books. I love the witty dialogue, the laugh out loud moments, the scorching passion, and the tender romance. Instant Attraction excels at all that and more. It is the first book in a trilogy and is the story of the youngest Wilder brother, Cameron. I can't wait to get my hands on the second one so that I can continue to be a part of the "world" that Jill Shalvis has created. And also to get to know some new characters as well as revisit the old.

Katie Kramer has always been a "good girl." However, after surviving a devastating accident, she longs for adventure and "amazing sex." (LOL) So she takes off from L.A. and heads up into the Sierra Madre Mountains to take on a temporary position as bookkeeper for Wilder Adventures and Expeditions. I really enjoyed Katie...she didn't back down from a situation just because her fears got in the way. She plowed through her feelings and came out stronger and more self-reliant on the other side. Her grit and determination to not let the accident rule her life were two of the things that made her such a great character.

Cameron Wilder is the prodigal brother...returning after wandering the world to come to terms with his life-changing accident. After giving up his dreams of professional snow boarding and still not sure he will ever have a new "dream," he returns home to face his family. Even though they welcome him with open arms, he doesn't know where he fits in with his brothers' business...or doesn't even know if he wants to be a part of it. His heart is off limits to everyone..."Still, Katie's killer smile triggers something deep in his gut...among other places." He is determined to show her how "exhilarating" life can be...and she is determined to show him how to open his heart again.

You can read my full review at World According to Books.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 302
Completed: 3/27/10

Summer Reading Challenge 2010

2010-05-17T10:44:00.000-04:00

Summer's almost here and it is time to start planning for that Summer Reading Challenge. It is being hosted by Susan at A Southern Daydreamer Reads and runs from June 21, 2010 to September 21, 2010. You choose what books you want to read and how many you want to complete this summer. So head on over and check Susan's blog out and while you are there...sign up for the challenge.

Here is my list:

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
The Ocean Between Us by Susan Wiggs
All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris
Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
Glory in Death by J.D. Robb
Eyes of Prey by John Sandford
Linda Lael Miller
Sharon Sala
Amanda Ashley

Fragile - Shiloh Walker

2010-05-14T16:20:00.000-04:00

Title: Fragile
Author: Shiloh Walker
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2009
Pages: 346
Genre: Romantic Suspense

Hero: Luke Rafferty
Heroine: Devon Manning

What a truly excellent, fantastic book!!! Wish I had started reading Shiloh Walker's work a long time ago. Fragile is filled with scorching passion, intense suspense, and I was kept guessing until the very end as to how it would all wrap up. The pages kept turning, I just couldn't put it down. There is a follow-up story, Broken, that was just as good if not better...but that is for a later review.

Devon's youth was filled with tragedy, trouble, and heartache. As a teenager, she didn't handle it well, but help came in the form of a dedicated social worker. Wanting to be that kind of help for others, Devon became a social worker herself rescuing children that need her the most. I loved Devon's strength of character, overcoming great odds, and becoming a woman whose compassionate, loving, and dedicated to her job. However, she has a vulnerable side to her also, unable to form relationships with others.

Luke has been searching for a normal life ever since leaving the Rangers six years ago. Working in a hospital, Luke "is faced with things just as heartbreaking as those on the battlefield." After meeting Devon, Luke thinks he has found what he is looking for...but breaking through her emotional barriers will be his toughest battle yet. Luke makes a great hero...he is so dedicated to getting through to Devon without hurting her. He is patient, understanding, and totally into protecting her when her life is threatened. Not knowing who is behind the threats...he goes into total Ranger mode. Love, love, love Luke!!

You can read my full review at World According to Books.

Rating: 4.5/5
Pages: 346
Completed: 3/21/10

Savor the Moment - Nora Roberts

2010-05-14T12:21:00.001-04:00

Title: Savor the Moment
Author: Nora Roberts
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2010
Pages: 325
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Bride Quartet - Book #3

Hero: Delaney Brown
Heroine: Laurel McBane

Another good book in the Bride Quartet series! Laurel is the baker of the group in charge of wedding cakes and other confectionary delights for the weddings that Vows plans. I loved learning about the intricacies of cake decorating, dealing with brides, and all that goes into making the perfect wedding cake. Each book focuses on a different aspect of planning a wedding. Nora Roberts does an excellent job with expertly weaving the details of each aspect throughout the book without giving too much detail that overshadows the storyline.

Laurel is the more low-key, practical friend of the foursome. She believes in romance...but in theory only. Her no nonsense approach to relationships is so different from Emma's romantic dreams in book two. Delaney is the lawyer for the company. He is also the older brother to one of the friends and has always considered all the ladies as his sisters. He was always protective of them while they were growing up. So, he is very concerned when his thoughts turn to romance in regards to Laurel. After the kiss they share in her kitchen, he just can't quit thinking about her. Little does he know that Laurel has had a crush on him since she was a teenager. They decide on a platonic dating relationship for a month...didn't want to muddy their friendship with sex if it wasn't going to work out between the two of them.

I loved how this story ended...great beach scene, perfect amount of romance, and of course, a teary moment for those of us who love Happily Ever Afters.

You can read my full review at World According to Books.

Rating: 4.5/5
Pages: 325
Completed: 5/4/10

Bed of Roses - Nora Roberts

2010-05-08T15:44:00.000-04:00

Title: Bed of Roses
Author: Nora Roberts
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2009
Pages: 335
Genre: Romance
Series: Bride Quartet - Book #2

Hero: Jack Cooke
Heroine: Emma Grant

Out of the three Bride Quartet books that I have read, I think that Emma's story was my favorite. Her hopes and dreams about romance and marriage match my own, so I really connected with the her. Not only did I love the background information on flower arranging and all the ins and outs of preparing flowers for a wedding, I enjoyed the interaction between the friends in all the books.

For those that haven't heard about this quartet...it is about four childhood friends that grow up and form a wedding planning company together. Each book is about one of the friends and finding their happily ever after. Emma's story is filled with laughter, angst and a tear-jerker of an ending. Jack's insecurities about commitment has Emma questioning whether he is her Mr. Right. Jack has been a long-time friend of the women, so he is a little apprehensive of dating Emma. Yet, the sparks fly when they finally get together...but is the commitment that Emma longs for going to get in the way? The ending scene is simply perfect and will have romance lovers grabbing a tissue or two.

You can read my full review at World According to Books.

Rating: 4.75/5
Pages: 335
Completed: 4/10/10

Shiloh Walker - Contest!!!

2010-04-27T11:16:00.001-04:00

Shiloh Walker has a new book out!!! No Longer Mine is a previously published book that has been revised from its original release. It can be purchased from MBaM.

Here is the blurb on the book...(taken from Shiloh's blog).

One woman, one man, and a love that won’t let either of them go.

Born on the wrong side of the tracks and dealt a fair share of hardship, Nikki Kline never gives up a fight. Even when her reason to keep going is ripped from her, Nikki tries desperately to hang on. But when the man who broke Nikki’s heart comes back into her life she doesn’t know how much she can take. Especially since that man seems determined to win back her damaged heart.

Wade Lightfoot is a man who knows he’s made more mistakes than most. As much as he would like to repair the damage he’s done to those he loves, Wade also knows there is no going back. But when he sets out to put things right the last thing he’s prepared to find out is that he had a son. A son he’ll never get the chance to meet.

When the truth is out and all the old wounds are bared, it seems impossible that Nikki and Wade will find their way back to each other. But true love is an undeniable force that even past hurts can’t destroy.

This book has been previously published and has been revised from its original release.

Warning: This title contains heartbreaking tragedy, lies and deception, and a scorching passion that nothing can deny.

But not only am I excited about this release...but Shiloh is also holding a contest over at her blog for one lucky reader to win a Sony Pocket!!! Can you say...Yipeeeeee!!!

So head on over to Shiloh's blog to read all about the rules of the contest.

And if you want to read an excerpt from the book...go to her website.

"D" is for Deadbeat - Sue Grafton

2010-04-26T20:06:00.000-04:00

TIME TO CELEBRATE THE AUTHOR

Sue Grafton is this month's celebrated author. Each month we are to choose one author whose birthday falls within the current month. I chose Sue Grafton because of my love of the Kinsey Millhone series!!

Title: "D" is for Deadbeat
Author: Sue Grafton
Publisher: Bantam
Published: 1987
Pages: 240
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Series: Kinsey Millhone Mysteries - Book #4

I know I have only completed 4 books in this series...but I can say that this is one of my favorite series to read! I love Sue Grafton's rich descriptions of people and events. Her recurring characters are quirky and fun to follow throughout the books. The mysteries are intriguing, and she has a way of telling a story that captures the reader from the first page and keeps their attention until the last. I have the next book in the series on hold at the library. Although, her writing is so engaging that I am thinking about collecting the series for myself.

He called himself Alvin Limardo, and the job he had for Kinsey was cut-and-dried: locate a kid who'd done him a favor and pass on a check for $25,000. It was only later, after he'd stiffed her for her retainer, that Kinsey found out his name was Daggett. John Daggett. Ex-con. Inveterate liar. Chronic drunk. And dead. The cops called it an accident -- death by drowning. Kinsey wasn't so sure.

So here's to you Sue Grafton, I hope your birthday month was a grand one!!

Bound, Branded, & Brazen - Jaci Burton

2010-04-17T19:20:00.000-04:00

Title: Bound, Branded, & Brazen
Author: Jaci Burton
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2010
Pages: 324
Genre: Erotic Romance

What an intensely emotional, passionate read!!! Jaci Burton pens one hawt romance about three sisters and three sexy, hunky cowboys. Bound, Branded, & Brazen contains three separate stories interconnected because the heroines are sisters. Jolene has been running the family ranch while the other two left home to pursue other interests. However, it is time for them to return home to decide what to do about their interest in the ranch. Both sisters promise to stay for one month, but little did each sister know that it would be a "hot date with destiny."

In BOUND, Valerie has left the ranch and her ex-husband behind...pursuing a career as a doctor in the big city. The ranch only holds heartbreak for Valerie, ever since her parents died. Not wanting to risk her heart again, she divorces her husband, the ranch foreman. "Now, seeing him brings back sizzling memories. But their rekindled fire threatens to burn them both."

I loved Mason's strength of character...his ability to let Valerie find her heart and discover that loving is a risk but reaps the greatest rewards. Valerie is so devastated by her parents death that she lets it overshadow her marriage. Not the greatest at communication, she hides her fears deep in her heart.

In BRANDED, Brea has had some bad relationships that left her with little self-confidence. With the help of her sisters, she reforms her outward appearance, but still feels the awkward, gawky girl inside. Gage, the horse trainer, sees the beautiful woman Brea is on the inside. And with the same gentle but firm hand he trains his horses with...he guides Brea into fulfilling all her desires. "But can she live out her fantasy with a man who might ask for more than she's willing to give?"

Gage was my favorite of the three heroes. He is a no strings/no commitment kind of guy...but he is also straightforward and lets his stipulations known at the very beginning. He is the ultimate cowboy...definitely a alpha male. Brea is so insecure...but it was great reading about her "coming out" and gaining the confidence she so needed. I could relate to Brea in a lot of ways.

In BRAZEN, Jolene has wanted ranch hand, Walker, since he came to the ranch. But Jolene is the boss, and Walker can't afford to lose his job by getting too close. There are some hidden secrets in Walker's past, and they have made him leery of getting into any kind of relationship with Jolene. So, it is up to her to make the first move..."because what Jolene wants, Jolene gets."

I like Walker because he is trying to do the honorable thing by steering clear of Jolene. However, he does keep tight-lipped about his past...which we all know that communication is the key! Jolene is brash and sassy and is just the type of woman to draw Walker out.

You can read my other review here.

Rating: 4.5/5
Pages: 324
Completed: 3/13/10

24 Hour Read-a-Thon

2010-04-09T09:38:00.001-04:00

This weekend from Saturday 8:00 am until Sunday 8:00 am, I am going to be participating in Dewey's 24 Hour Read-a-Thon. I am so excited. This will be the first time I am going to be a participant. I have read so many good posts about tips and tricks...and today I am going shopping for my snacks and easy to make dinners for the family!! Everyone has been warned about this for weeks now, so hopefully the family will cooperate and let me enjoy myself.

I won't be posting my progress on this blog...please go to my review blog...World According to Books. There you can read all my updates and stay current with my progress. I will, however, be posting reviews of the books I read as usual...but probably not until next week sometime. I still have so many reviews to post of the books I finished in March. I don't know how I got so far behind...but never fear...they are coming because I read some fantastic books last month.

If you want to participate...it is not too late to sign-up. You can be a Reader or a Cheerleader or both. There will also be some mini challenges for those of us that want to take a break from reading during the event. I don't know if I will get through all 24 hours...but I am going to give it the good ole college try!!! LOL.

Rewriting Monday - Jodi Thomas

2010-03-31T11:34:00.000-04:00

Title: Rewriting Monday
Author: Jodi Thomas
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2009
Pages: 343
Genre: Romance with a touch of Suspense

In this book, Jodi Thomas does something a little bit different. She writes in both first person and third person. Not only do we get to delve into the thoughts of the narrator...but also the other characters as well. It might not seem like this would work...but it does, in a great way.

Pepper is the main heroine of the story and through her narrative, we are introduced to the town of Bailee and its inhabitants. She has come to the small town of Bailee to pull her life together after a making a mistake that ended her career as a reporter in Chicago. With less than $300 in her pocket, she arrives at the home of her Aunt only to discover her Aunt is in a nursing home, and the dwelling is a rundown mobile home. Left with no choice, she applies for a job at the local newspaper.

Mike is the editor and owner of the Bailee Bugle...not because he wants to be...but because he inherited the job after his father and brother died within months of each other. Living life full of regrets, Mike is the ultimate beta hero. Strong, yet shy, he keeps his inner turmoil hidden from the townsfolk. He has always been in the shadows...growing up with the town hero as his brother.

This is a great story with intriguing characters...ones that will keep you wanting more of their lives depicted in the story. Along with the romance of Pepper and Mike, there are secondary stories that keep you entertained...the threats involving the paper; a mysterious man seen around town; and the disturbing things that keep happening to Pepper.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3.75/5
Pages: 343
Completed: 3/8/10

Wild, Wicked, & Wanton - Jaci Burton

2010-03-20T10:50:00.000-04:00

Title: Wild, Wicked, & Wanton
Author: Jaci Burton
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2007
Pages: 326
Genre: Erotic Romance

This is one title that actually describes what the book is...wild, wicked & wanton. It is a book that pushes the boundaries and will take you on the most sensual ride of your life. So, if you like your romances a little tamer...then I suggest you don't pick up this book. But, if you like your romances edgy, intense, flaming hot, mixed with great characters and intriguing stories, then Wild, Wicked, & Wanton is definitely for you!!! Jaci Burton creates characters that are vibrant, three dimensional, and realistic. She explores the deep fantasies that some women have and gives them life. This is a fantastic read.

The book is an anthology comprising of three interwoven stories. They are about best friends Abby, Blair, and Callie who delight in sharing their wildest secrets and dares. "But their latest bet is the boldest one of all. Each must sleep with whomever the other two have chosen for her." Little did each of them know that their HEA was right around the corner.

Abby's ex-husband had a reputation while they were married for bedding any woman who let her guard down. So, Abby has sworn off men..."but never counted on a pair of sexy veterinarians who are fulfilling a desire of their own." I liked Abby's strength of character that allowed her to go after what she wanted, evaluate the situation for what it really was, and to reach out and grab her chance for love. Mike and Seth were great heroes in this story. Polar opposites...Mark out for a good time, Seth being the more romantic of the two...they complimented each other and gave Abby the time of her life. But what happens after the weekend is over?? That you'll have to read for yourself...LOL.

Blair is afraid to commit. She has broken off three engagements, all because of one man she has never had the courage to let into her heart. The one man she really loves. But now the decision to avoid him at all costs is out of her hands. Blair is afraid of her own desires, afraid to let the one man she knows who will fulfill all of them into her life. Rand knows all about what Blair truly desires, and he is willing to wait until Blair admits the truth. With the help of her two friends, it is time for Blair to face Rand. Even though Rand is a true dominant alpha male, he understands Blair's fears and is compassionate enough to help her work through them. He is determined to have the woman he wants.

Callie is a true romantic...but she carries a broken heart after the death of her husband. She owns a coffee shop where one of her regular customers happens to be one of the most sexiest, gorgeous man Callie has ever seen. After her friends hear that he has given Callie his phone number, they know who they are going to pick for her wild weekend. Now, her long dormant fantasies may be getting a workout. I loved Callie's ability to reinvent herself after her husband's death. She didn't wallow in self-pity, she pulled herself together, opened a successful coffee shop, and now has the chance to grab at everything she's ever dreamed of with Jack. He is a successful lawyer with fantasies of his own...and they just happen to match Callie's. They both explore their desires together. But someone wants to put a stop to their relationship...does he succeed?? You know the drill...you'll have to read it to find out!!

If you want to read an excerpt from Wild, Wicked, & Wanton, head on over to Jaci Burton's webiste.

You can read my other review here.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 326
Completed: 3/7/10

Hard to Handle - Lori Foster

2010-03-14T15:41:00.000-04:00

Title: Hard to Handle
Author: Lori Foster
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2008
Pages: 648 (eBook)
Genre: Suspense/Romance
Series: Fighter Series Book #3

Harley is an ultimate fighter trying to obtain the all illusive SBC title belt. He has been in this situation before...but circumstances beyond his control and injuries has kept him from fighting for it. But nothing is going to get in his way this time, not even women...unless their name is Anastasia. As much as he would like to forget her...circumstances keep throwing them together.

I loved Harley in this book...he is a determined lean mean fighting machine. He is thoroughly focused on his goal of winning the belt, yet he doesn't let it consume him when it comes to protecting his friends. He cares enough about his family by letting his only living relative, Uncle Satch, manage his career even though they don't see eye to eye on how it should be done. He is definitely an alpha male yet he has his vulnerable moments too.

Anastasia is a life coach...helping people reach their goals in life. And even though Harley doesn't want anything to do with her "coaching," he still would like to get to know her on a more personal level. She doesn't act like the typical female...she isn't falling all over herself to get Harley's attention. In fact, she doesn't want a relationship with him at all. They dance around each other as the sparks between them fly...and when they finally do get together...it is an all-consuming fire! I loved her strength in this story. She is a self-sufficient woman with a great career. She doesn't fall for Harley's good looks...she falls for the man he is on the inside.

The only complaint I have of this book is that the title fight didn't last long enough. I would have liked a little more "edge of the seat" fighting. But, all in all it was a great, fun, exciting read. There is an underlying mystery in the story...someone is trying to harm Anastasia...or is it Harley that is in harms way?? You won't get the answer from me! LOL.

You can read my other review here. To read a couple of excerpts from the book, go to Lori Foster's website.

Rating: 3.75/5
Pages: 648 (eBook)
Completed: 3/1/10

Zack: Armed and Dangerous - Cheyenne McCray

2010-03-12T19:07:00.000-05:00

Title: Zack: Armed and Dangerous
Author: Cheyenne McCray
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 2008
Pages: 269
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Armed and Dangerous Book #1

Zack: Armed and Dangerous is a scorching hot romance with a suspenseful subplot that includes cattle rustlers and a sexy ICE agent. It is a second chance romance with a twist. I really enjoyed this read...it kept me engaged until the end of the book. The heroine had a strength of character that I liked...she was tough when she needed to be...yet there was a vulnerability to her too. Zack was the ultimate alpha hero. Cowboy turned ICE agent, he is a tall drink of water wearing a black stetson.

Zack broke Sky's heart ten years ago...but now he is back ready to reclaim her and put an end to the cattle rustlers stealing her cattle. In Sky's mind...she wants nothing to do with Zack. Yet, her heart and her body betray her. "She hasn't been able to find a man who sets her on fire the way he did. Then he comes striding back into her life - bigger, badder, and sexier than before..." Get out the fan and have a cool drink on hand when reading this book...their passion burns so hot...the pages scorch your fingers...LOL.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 269
Completed: 3/1/10

2009 List of Challenges

2010-03-12T10:13:00.001-05:00

2009 List of Challenges

2009 was a bad year for me in regards to reading and challenges. I had 2 major reading slumps (talking months here) and only completed one challenge for the year. Instead of listing all the challenges that I signed up for like a did in the 2008 List of Challenges post, I am just going to list the one challenge that I completed.

I only read 62 books for the year...I believe this is how many I read. When I started coming out of my slump in September, I didn't track all the books I started reading...but later in the year I tried to go back and compile my list...I think I got them all.

Here is the one challenge I completed:

Romance Reading Challenge - Completed 12/31/10

I know that 2010 has got to be a better year!!!

2008 List of Challenges

2010-03-08T10:07:00.001-05:00

2008 List of Challenges

These are the challenges I joined in 2008:

100+ Book Challenge - Did not complete (only 80 books)
1st in a Series - Completed 12/7/2008
2nds Challenge - Completed 12/31/2008
2NEW2U - Completed 4/30/2008
888 Challenge - Did not complete (only read 59 out of 64)
A~Z Challenge - Did not complete (only read 35 out of 52)
Amateur Sleuth - Did not complete (only read 3 out of 6)
Animal Challenge - Did not complete (only read 2 out of 6)
Anything Agatha - Completed 12/31/2008
Banned Books Challenge - Completed 6/30/2008
Book Binge - Completed 5/31/2008
Bloghopping - Completed 9/25/2008
Book Blowout - Completed 7/31/2008
Book to Movie - Did not complete (only read 0 out of 3)
Celebrate the Author - Did not complete (only read 6 out of 12)
Chunkster Challenge - Did not complete (only read 3 out of 4)
Decades Challenge - Did not complete (only read 4 out of 8)
Dragons Challenge - Completed 6/30/2008
Fall into Reading - Completed 12/20/2008
Ghostly Challenge - Completed 10/31/2008
Grapevine Challenge - Completed 11/30/2008
Harlequin Challenge - Completed 12/31/2008
Man Booker Challenge - Did not complete (only read 1 out of 6)
Naming Convention - Completed 12/31/2008
Notable Books - Did not complete (only read 1 out of 12)
Novella Challenge - Completed 9/30/2008
On the Porch Swing - Did not complete (only read 4 out of 5)
Pub Challenge - Completed 12/31/2008
Read for Your Dreams - Did not complete (only read 5 out of 10)
Romance Reading Challenge - Completed 12/31/2008
Series Challenge Season 2 - Did not complete (only read 0 out of ?)
Southern Reading Challenge - Did not complete (only read 1 out of 3)
Spring Reading Challenge - Completed 5/31/2008
Spring Reading Thing - Completed 6/19/2008
Summer Challenge - Completed 8/31/2008
TBR Challenge - Did not complete (only read 5 out of 12)
Title Master Reading Challenge - Did not complete (only read 1 out of 4)
What's in a Name - Did not complete (only read 4 out of 6)
Whitcoulls Challenge - Did not complete (only read 1 out of 12)
Wind-up Book Chronicle - Did not complete (only read 2 out of 3)

Completed 20 out of 40 challenges!! Read 80 books for the year.

Label Cleanup

2010-03-05T12:47:00.000-05:00

I want to let you know that the next few posts are just maintenance posts. I am participating in the 2010 Blog Improvement Challenge and one of the tasks this week is to cleanup our labels. A couple of the suggestions were to use as few labels as possible and those labels that only have a couple of items under them...should be deleted and moved to another more general label.

So, in order to cleanup my labels...I am creating posts that list and link to all my 2007, 2008, and 2009 challenges instead of having them all listed separately under Labels. However, for the current year, 2010, I am going to have the challenges listed separately until the end of the year...that way they will be easier to find. Make sense?? Does that sound like it will be easier to navigate the blog??

Also, on individual book reviews...I am going to take the challenge tags off and just have an author label ("M" Authors, "N" Authors, etc.) Do I really need all those challenge tags?? My challenge posts contain all the books I have read for that particular challenge with links to their reviews. I think this is all I need.

Spring Reading Thing 2010

2010-03-03T08:54:00.005-05:00

I am joining the Spring Reading Thing challenge again this year. I have participated in this a couple of times and really enjoy the "freedom" you have with this challenge. It is being hosted by Katrina over at Callapidder Days.She hasn't posted the sign-up post yet...I will link back to it when it gets published.

Not many rules...set your own goals with your own book list. The challenge runs from 3/20/10 to 6/20/10 to coincide with Spring!! She has set up a post that explains the whole challenge and even has answers to common questions.

I am shooting for 10 books this Spring. Here is my list of books with links to my thoughts on them:

The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
311 Pelican Court by Debbie Macomber - 4/26/10
"D" is for Deadbeat by Sue Grafton - 4/10/10
True Blue by Luanne Rice - 5/3/10
Fireworks Over Toccoa by Jeffrey Stepakoff
Marley & Me by Josh Grogan
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts - 4/10/10
The Girl on Legare Street by Karen White - 5/17/10
Highland Honor by Hannah Howell
Bride, Bought and Paid For by Helen Bianchin - 3/22/10

Broken - Releases Today!!

2010-03-02T13:53:00.000-05:00

Shiloh Walker's book Broken is being released today!!! Here is the blurb from the back of the book and a small excerpt. This one sounds like it is going to be a winner!!!

Shattered

Quinn Rafferty is working as a bounty hunter and bail bondsman in St. Louis when a new neighbor catches his eye. He’s tempted by her beauty—but he knows from experience that anyone desperate enough to live in his building is damaged goods. Besides, he has his own soul to mend before he can worry about anyone else.

Desperate

Sara Davis is on the run, but not for the usual reasons a woman goes on the lam. She’s not an abused wife, and she’s not a criminal. But she does have a plan for her future. And as much as she finds herself attracted to her gruff, tough neighbor, she can’t risk telling him the secrets she’s hiding. There’s just too much at stake.

Driven to desire…

But Quinn must get closer to Sara when she turns out to be the target of his new missing persons case, and he discovers that there is something more complex and dangerous to her than he thought. Now, both Quinn and Sara will have to expose their true feelings—as well as their fragile hearts—if they hope their love will survive…

EXCERPT

He opened the door—

And stopped dead in his tracks as somebody all but fell into his arms. Somebody…a woman. And not Theresa.

He caught her just above her elbows, automatically steadying her.

“I’m sorry,” she said, her voice soft and low.

Then she lifted her face and Quinn found himself gazing into the biggest, brownest eyes he’d ever seen in his life. Feeling a little dazed, he studied her face while she stammered out another apology.
Quinn barely heard it.

He was too busy staring at her mouth. A very pretty mouth, a cupid’s bow mouth slicked with deep, vibrant red. Under his hands, he could feel silken smooth skin and unable to resist, he stroked a thumb along her inner arm.

Her skin was soft, soft and warm. He was also pretty sure she had the creamiest, most flawless skin imaginable. Her shoulder-length hair was a shade caught between blonde and brown, nondescript, but for some reason, he found himself thinking about tangling his fingers in that hair and holding her head still while he kissed that red-slicked mouth.

Well, hello…

read more…

Vision in White - Nora Roberts

2010-02-27T13:54:00.001-05:00

Title: Vision in White
Author: Nora Roberts
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2009
Pages: 325
Genre: Romance/Humerous
Series: Bride Quartet Book #1

Vision in White is the first book in the Bride Quartet featuring four childhood friends who grew up to run a business together. They run a wedding service/consultant business...from the first stages of planning to holding the actual wedding and reception on the premises. Mackensie is the photographer, Parker is the OCD planner and powerhouse of the business, Laurel the cake decorator, and Emma the florist.

This is Mackensie's story...and it is laugh out loud funny as well as a tender romance that pulls at the heartstrings. Carter is the perfect hero for Mackensie. He is a nerdy, clumsy, high school English Lit teacher...who is extremely shy around women. Mackensie is a top notch photographer who can deal with the worst bride on the planet, but can't deal with her own mother. She is insecure in her private life, vulnerable, and is a total pushover when it comes to her mother.

What makes this story truly enjoyable is the dialogue...which includes Carter's self talk about his shyness with women, his best friend's advice on dating and "getting" the girl, Mackenzie's self talk about her commitment phobia, and the interactive dialogue between all the characters. Nora Robert's pens a witty, tender, contemporary romance that is just that...romance...no suspense, no intrigue...just a sweet story about triumph over a terrible childhood to realize that "Some things in life are out of your control. You can make it a party or a tragedy. Or...you could refuse to take the next step. You could refuse to take what you wanted most because you're afraid some day you might lost it."

You can read my full review here.

Rating 4.5/5
Pages: 325
Completed: 2/26/10

Release - Beth Kery

2010-02-26T10:25:00.000-05:00

Title: Release
Author: Beth Kery
Publisher: Penguin
Published: 2010
Pages: 328
Genre: Erotic Romance

I can't seem to put Beth Kery's books down once I start reading them...the pages just keep turning, the magic keeps flowing, and the suspense grabs you until you just have to finish reading the book. Then when you are done, you hate the fact that you read it so fast!! Even though the book has a strong, powerful Dom/sub relationship, which I don't usually read, it was written in such a way that you understood and felt the explosive emotions, and scorching passion between the two characters. The fears and uncertainty were believable and were assuaged with such caring, patience, and heartfelt love. I am not going to go into specific detail as to what the passionate scenes entail...but if you want to know before reading the book...there is a great review on Amazon by Jane Stewart that details exactly what is in the book.

I was a recent winner of this book...over at Seductive Musings...and got an autographed copy. I was so excited when it came in the mail!!! I really loved this book. Sean is a ruggedly handsome man with a New Orleans drawl that made me weak in the knees whenever I imagined how his voice would sound. He knew exactly what he wanted in the bedroom and knew exactly how to achieve his desires. Ginny is confused about her wants and needs...having grown up with conservative beliefs...she is scared of the feelings and desires that Sean awakens. He is understanding of these concerns and tries to help her overcome them and starts to build a trust between them that is needed in this type of relationship.

There is only one scene that bothered me...when he leaves her in a vulnerable position to take care of some business...business that includes keeping her safe. I don't know why that didn't sit well with me...I think putting myself in her place...I would be scared, mad, and even a little apprehensive about trusting him again.

Here is a bit of the blurb on the back of the book...

And so a memorable night in the company penthouse, Max and Sean showed Genny the heights of ecstacy...But as Ginny soon learns, there's a price to pay for such impulsive pleasure. What began as a night of forbidden desire quickly spirals into a whirlpool of murder, sensual submission, and secrets. And a scorching passion that threatens to consume everyone it touches.

The suspense and intrigue behind the story kept me turning the pages to see what the outcome would be...who murdered the victim; why; and would Ginny and Sean get their HEA?

You can read more about this book over at Beth Kery's website.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 328
Completed: 2/21/10

Stand Alone Reading Challenge 2010

2010-02-22T11:41:00.003-05:00

I am reading so many series...that I thought this would be a good challenge to join...to branch out from reading my series and devour some stand-alone books. The Stand Alone Reading Challenge is being hosted by Wings at Storywings.

There are 3 levels of participation:

SAB-erful - 5 books
SAB-erific - 15 books
SAB-tastic - 25 books

The rules are very simple...read stand alone books...rereads are allowed...complete your level within the time frame...January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010.

I am going to try to complete the SAB-erific level which is 15 books.

Here is my list with links to my reviews:

Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Wild, Wicked, & Wanton by Jaci Burton - 3/7/10
Rewriting Monday by Jodi Thomas - 3/8/10

What an Animal III Reading Challenge

2010-02-22T11:15:00.000-05:00

Yvonne at Socrates' Book Reviews has volunteered to host the What an Animal III Reading Challenge. The challenge runs from March 1, 2010 to February 28, 2011. The rules remain the same:

1. Read at least 6 books that have any of the following requirements: 
a. there is an animal in the title of the book 
b. there is an animal on the cover of the book 
c. an animal plays a major role in the book 
d. a main character is (or turns into) an animal (define that however you'd like).

2. The animal can be any type of animal (real or fictitious)--dog, cat, monkey, wolf, snake, insect, hedgehog, aardvark...dragon, mermaid, centaur, vampire, werewolf...you get the idea... 

3. You can still sign up after March 1st as long as you can get 6 books read by February 28, 2011 ;o). 

4. Books can be fiction or nonfiction. 

5. You may make a list of books at the beginning of the challenge or you can just list them as you find them. 

6. Book titles may be swapped out at anytime (assuming you made a list to begin with). 

7. Crossovers with other challenges are permitted and encouraged. 

8. You don't have to have a blog or write a review, but you can if you want to. 

So, head on over to Yvonne's and sign up for this fun challenge.

Here's my book list with links to my reviews:

The Carpenter's Lady - Barbara Delinsky

2010-02-20T12:52:00.001-05:00

Title: The Carpenter's Lady

Author: Barbara Delinsky

Publisher: Avon

Published: 1983

Pages: 316

Genre: Romance

This is a sweet beautiful romance that is being reprinted (I think because I saw it at Borders last week). And as long as you remember that it was written in 1983...the time of the typewriter, no cell phones, and the heroine saying "no" but the hero thinking she really means "yes"...then I think you will enjoy this romance. Barbara Delinsky pens a remarkably beautiful story that encompasses triumph over the past, the courage to tear down walls erected around the heart, and believable characters. I really enjoyed this book and probably will be rereading it sometime in the near future.

Debra is a writer for a popular soap opera who moves from New York to a small town in New Hampshire. There she tries to repair her shattered emotions as well as restore the old farmhouse she bought. And the only person to help her on both accounts is the enigmatic Graham Reid. Graham is hiding from a bitter past himself, but reluctantly takes on the job of restoration not suspecting to find himself enamored with the owner of the house. Together they struggle to find the courage to build on the promise of new love.

I loved the tidbits here and there about house restoration interwoven into the framework of the book. These are my favorite types of books...where restoring older homes is the backdrop for a beautifully written romance. Debra is a strong heroine pitted against the gruff and tough Graham. She sees beyond the exterior to the hurting man inside. Will they get their "happily ever after"?? Not if Debra's ex-husband can help it.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3.5/5
Pages: 316
Completed: 2/19/10

Coming Undone - Lauren Dane

2010-02-15T18:18:00.000-05:00

Title: Coming Undone
Author: Lauren Dane
Publisher: Penguin
Published: 2010
Pages: 291
Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

Lauren Dane is a "new to me" author and all I can say is I will be reading more of her books in the future!! Coming Undone is the second book in a duet, but against all I believe in...I read this one out of order. I just couldn't wait for Laid Bare, the first book, to come in the mail.

I absolutely loved this book. Even though it is a gentle romance...meaning it is not fraught with major conflicts...it is a compassionate love story packed full of raw emotion, family dynamics, and scorching passion. It is a character driven book that is heartfelt, has you pulling for the main characters, warming to the secondary characters, and fanning yourself as the passion flames up the pages!!

I fell in love with Brody the minute he was introduced in the story. I mean, who doesn't want an alpha hero whose kind and compassionate as well as strong and sexy!!! I love how both of the main characters are well-adjusted, capable of taking care of their own, and not afraid of their own sensuality. Like I said before, there isn't any major conflict...except between Elise and her in-laws...and the love story between Brody and Elise grrows over time...I think the book covers about 18 months of their relationship.

Elise has overcome a life-altering past, but she is a strong woman, capable of taking care of herself, her family, and moving on with her life. Brody is your average guy, although he has had to raise his two siblings from a young age, he hasn't got a lot of hangups. He just doesn't want commitment right at the moment...he is happy being a free spirit. They meet one day, after Brody gets run over by a drunk driver...she is there to call the ambulance and take care of him until help arrives. When they first meet the sparks begin to fly until they burst into flames later on in the story. I just loved how their love for each other grew over time, they became best friends, leaning on each other without becoming overly dependent. They are characters that are going to stay with me long after I have put the book on my shelf (my keeper shelf for sure). For those that want a comfortable romance, with down to earth characters that burn up the pages...then Coming Undone is for you. This is definitely going to be a reread for me!!!

You can read the blurb on the back of the book plus a delicious excerpt on Lauren Dane's website.

I can't wait until my copy of Laid Bare arrives, it is the story of Brody's sister.

Rating: 4.5/5
Pages: 291
Completed: 2/15/10

Night's Master - Amanda Ashley

2010-02-15T08:30:00.002-05:00

Title: Night's Master
Author: Amanda Ashley
Publisher: Kensington
Published: 2008
Pages: 364
Genre: Paranormal/Vampire/Werewolf
Series: Night Series - Book #3

Night's Master incorporates both the supernatual worlds of Vampires and Werewolves. An evil force is determined to destroy them, and they have to ban together in order to win the war. Amanda Ashley pens a story where we revisit characters from the first two books, however she doesn't rehash every aspect of their stories...she introduces just enough information that we find out what has been happening to them as time progresses. It is a good mixture of background information and gap-filling information that blends well with the new storyline. The new characters are well-developed, and I enjoyed their story as much as I did the first two books!

Kathy is being drawn into the Supernatural world whether she wants to be or not...due to the fact that she finds the leader of the North American vampires irresistible. "Raphael Cordova exudes smoldering power, and his sensual touch draws Kathy into a world of limitless pleasure and unimaginable dangers." The vampire hunters are on the loose...with a new antidote to change werewolves and vampires back into humans...but they need test subjects, and the Supernatural beings are starting to disappear. They are determined to destroy them and any human that gets in their way. Which is exactly what Kathy does...gets in their way. But could Raphael's desire for Kathy be a fatal distraction for all his kind as well as the woman he has sworn to love forever?

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3.5/5
Pages: 364
Completed 2/13/10

Satisfaction Guaranteed - Lucy Monroe

2010-02-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

Title: Satisfaction Guaranteed
Author: Lucy Monroe
Publisher: Kensington Brava
Published: 2007
Pages: 294
Genre: Romance/Light Suspense

I enjoyed this book with its witty dialogue and sizzling romance. However, I felt that it was a little light in the suspense category. Most of the book revolved around Beth's struggles to find herself...discover who she really was without worrying about what others thought about her. All her life, people told her that she was too intense in regards to her emotions. So, she hid that part of herself...and finally, after the Ethan states the same thing...she has had enough. She steps up to the plate and tells it like it is...she is an intense person...and if you don't like it...there's the door!!! There weren't that many secondary characters...however, the ones that were there added to the storyline, and the ending gave me the impression that there are going to be more books about the agency.

Ethan is an agent in her father's organization and Beth runs the office. However, it took her ex-fiance to make her realize that she doesn't date agents...ever. They do not make good family men...the kind she wants to settle down with and have a family. However, when forced together on a mission for the agency...sparks begin to fly...however, Beth thinks Ethan's interest is because of the job. Ethan can't help but be impressed by Beth's work in the field...which is a total turn on. Will they be able to keep the passion at a simmer until the mission is completed? Or will the flames ignite into an inferno?

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3/5
Pages: 294
Completed: 1/29/10

Celebrate the Author - John Sandford

2010-02-06T12:27:00.003-05:00

It is new month, and a new author to celebrate!!! John Sandford was born John Camp on February 23, 1994, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He won the Pulitzer in 1986 for a series of stories about a midwestern farm crisis. And has been writing suspense/thrillers since 1990. You can read more about him by visiting his biography on his website.

Title: Shadow Prey
Author: John Sandford
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 1990
Pages: 499 (eBook)
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Series: Prey Series - Book #2

In visiting John Sandford's website, I read through his comments on writing the book Shadow Prey. One of the things he says stood out with me...

"A good thriller should carry the reader along, like a whitewater river. The can't-put-it-down characteristic is critical."

That just says it all...and Shadow Prey didn't disappoint. From beginning to end, I was carried along through the action and suspense...and was really surprised by the ending. He sure put Lucas through the wringer in this one - LOL. The police procedures weren't over-shadowing and the history behind the terrorists' actions wasn't over-powering. It was a great mixture and made for an interesting, action-packed, thriller. I enjoyed getting to know Lucas more...the secondary characters are well-developed, and it was great revisiting them.

A radical Native American group is killing prominent people in the US. Lucas, along with a New York City detective, Lily Rothenburg, are investigating the terrorists. Through twists and turns, they discover who they are and begin racing against the clock to find them in order to keep the body count from rising.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 499 (eBooks)
Completed: 2/5/10

Ireland Reading Challenge 2010

2010-02-02T10:59:00.003-05:00

I know I've joined like a million challenges this year...but I could not pass this one up. Not only does it have a beautiful button, but Ireland is one of my favorite places and would love to travel there someday.

The Ireland Reading Challenge is being hosted by Books and Movies and here is what she states the rules are:

~ Join anytime. The challenge runs from February 1, 2010 to November 30, 2010.
~ Any books read for this challenge can also apply to other challenges you are working on.
~ Re-reads are allowed.
~ Any book written by an Irish author, set in Ireland, or involving Irish history or Irish characters, counts for the challenge – fiction, non-fiction, poetry, audiobooks, children’s books – all of these apply.
~ Choose your commitment level:

Shamrock level: 2 books
Luck o’ the Irish level: 4 books
Kiss the Blarney Stone level: 6 books

If you complete your challenge and write at least one review...you are eligible for the giveaway prize at the end of the challenge: a copy of Ireland: A Novel by Frank Delaney.

So go forth, sign up, and have fun traveling to Ireland!!!

My commitment level is going to be Luck o’ the Irish level: 4 books

Here is my list with links to my reviews:

Hard to Hold - Stephanie Tyler

2010-01-30T11:11:00.005-05:00

Title: Hard to Hold
Author: Stephanie Tyler
Publisher: Dell
Published: 2009
Pages: 370
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Hard to Hold Trilogy - Book #1

Stephanie Tyler is a "new to me" author but not for long. As of right now I am perusing her backlist and writing the titles down on my To Be Bought list!! Her writing style is fantastic, and I was drawn into her world of Navy SEALs from page one. Between all the suspense and intrigue lies a love story so poignant and powerful...that it had me on the edge of my seat to see if they could work through all their problems. I have to say that this is not the traditional Happy Ever After...it is not all wrapped up in a neat little package. Their are still issues that need to be resolved, healing that needs to be worked through, in total...it is a realistic ending that has the reader hoping for the best...but knowing there will be bumps along the way.

Jake and Isabelle "meet" when he has the mission of rescuing her from rebel forces after being held captive and tortured for three days in Africa. The sparks fly from the beginning and keep flying until the ultimate igniting of a fire that burns so passionately it will have you fanning yourself from the scorching heat. However, the road to passion was not easily traveled. Both Jake and Isabelle have pasts that they have to heal from...Jake's as a child and Isabelle's captivity. Neither one wants to tear down the walls that they have built around their hearts...but "nothing could prepare them for a passion this wild...this crazy...this hot."

Jake has been assigned Isabelle's protector since her attacker has not been found. Being kept totally in the dark about the assignment, Isabelle tries to overcome her pain both physically and emotionally. But the truth finally comes out...that the attacker is still at large...that Jake is protecting her...and Isabelle feels totally betrayed by those that she loves.

I really enjoyed this book...the romance, suspense, intrigue, and even the background history on Navy SEALs training. It is fully engaging, and I couldn't put it down. It engages all the emotions that I, as an avid reader, wants pulled from me as I am reading a book. Tears, laughter, sitting on the edge of my seat, passion, and it is full of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end. I can't wait to get me hands on the next in the trilogy and she if Ms. Tyler revisits some of the secondary characters in Hard to Hold that I feel, need some more attention...LOL!!!

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4.75/5
Pages: 370
Completed: 1/28/10

Naked in Death - J.D. Robb

2010-01-30T08:00:00.001-05:00

Title: Naked in Death
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 1995
Pages: 314
Genre: Romantic Suspense/Futuristic
Series: In Death - Book #1

Wow...what a fantastic start to, what I believe, is going to be a great series. I know I am a little behind in starting...I think she has written 29 books with a few novellas thrown into the mix.

This series' heroine is the tough homicide detective, Eve Dallas. It is set in the future, approximately 2058. While investigating a series of murders, Eve meets up with the enigmatic Roarke. He is one of her main suspects, but she can't help but be drawn in by his sharp good looks, charming attitude, and his tough as nails reputation.

Even though this is a futuristic book, the reader doesn't get bogged down in excessive detail. The story flows, and the advanced society and technology are believable. With all the suspense and intrigued packed into this one book, it had me guessing until the end about the identify of the killer.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 5/5
Pages: 408 (eBook)
Completed: 1/3/10

Reading My Name Challenge 2010

2010-01-28T08:35:00.004-05:00

Reading My Name Challenge is one that I participated in last year but didn't get around to completing. So I am up for it again this year. It is being hosted by Callista from SMS Book Reviews and has its own dedicated blog. It runs from January 15, 2010 through June 15, 2010.

All you have to do is read two books by an author that shares your name...could be first name, last name, middle name, nickname, online name, email name, etc. It can be a form of your name like Kathleen could by Kathy or Cathy. She even goes so far as allowing a character in the book or book titles to have your name...whatever works for you.

So head on over to the Reading My Name Blog and check out the rules (I might have missed some) and sign up for this great challenge.

I looked my name up in Amazon and amazingly there are a few authors that share the name Kara...I haven't researched Cara yet...but I am thinking there are a few of those too.

Here is my tentative book list:

Author - Kara Louise
Author - Kara Lennox
Title - Kara Gillian - Mark of the Demon
Author - Cara Summers
Author - Cara Lockwood

Dead in the Water - Stuart Woods

2010-01-26T09:49:00.004-05:00

Time to CELEBRATE THE AUTHOR for the month of January. I chose Mr. Stuart Woods who was born January 9, 1938 in a small southern town in Manchester, Georgia. He published his first novel, Chiefs, in March on 1981. His first Stone Barrington novel, a series he is well-known for, was published in 1991 by HarperCollins, New York Dead. You can head on over to his website, read more of his biography, and check out his extensive booklist.

The book I chose to read in celebration of his birthday is the third in the Stone Barrington series...Dead in the Water.

Title: Dead in the Water
Author: Stuart Woods
Publisher: HarperCollins
Published: 1997
Pages: 325
Genre: Thriller/Suspense
Series: Stone Barrington - Book #3

Stone Barrington, ex-cop turned attorney, finds himself on vacation in St. Marks by himself after being stood up by his live-in girlfriend. Sitting on his boat planning his next move, he watches a young woman, alone, sail a huge yacht into the harbor. After docking, he notices that there is some commotion going on over there that is involving the island police. He finds out what all the fuss is about from the owner of a local bar. A woman has arrived at the island alone...but she started out on the other side of the Atlantic with a husband...who is no longer on-board. Sir Winston, the minister of justice, wants to put her on trial for murder.

I just love the Stone Barrington novels...he is such a womanizer, but you can't help falling for him. This was definitely a page turner...I couldn't wait to see what happens...and what did happen was something I never expected. What a thrill ride. I can't wait to read the next in the series...Swimming to Catalina.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4.75/5
Pages: 325
Completed: 1/23/10

The House on Tradd Street - Karen White

2010-01-25T16:24:00.001-05:00

Title: The House on Tradd Street
Author: Karen White
Publisher: New American Library
Published: 2008
Pages: 329
Genre: Fiction/Paranormal/Romance (slight)
Series: Tradd Street - Book #1

Karen White pens a great story filled with ghosts, home restoration, witty dialogue, and two main characters that are vibrant and endearing. I love the dialogue that passes between Melanie and Jack. The secondary characters add a rich compliment to the book, and I can't wait to read more about them in the second book, The Girl on Legare Street.

Melanie can see ghosts though she won't admit that aloud to anybody. But when she inherits and old house from someone she only had one meeting with...she is going to have to accept it. Beneath the crumbling walls of her inheritance, lies a malevolent ghost that wants to keep the secrets of the house from being discovered.

Jack is a writer obsessed with unsolved mysteries. He believes that there are several stories involving the house...a woman's disappearance, diamonds, and possibly murder. So he decides to charm his way into Melanie's life and home. Now they need to unravel the mysteries before the evil force destroys them.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 5/5
Pages: 329
Completed: 1/19/10

Man's Best Friend Reading Challenge 2010

2010-01-22T14:55:00.003-05:00

Man's Best Friend Reading Challenge 2010

The Man's Best Friend Reading Challenge is being hosted by DelGal at DelGal's Book Reviews. From January to December 2010, you can read any type of book as long as it is about dogs!! Can be fiction, nonfiction, memoir, adult, YA, and children. Doesn't matter what type...it just has to be about dogs.

Since I have several "dog" books on my TBR shelf, I am definitely in this challenge.

Here are the books I am going to try and get to:

Marley & Me by John Grogan
Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog by Ted Kerasote
The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz

Buck a Book Challenge 2010

2010-01-22T14:21:00.006-05:00

I couldn't resist joining this challenge. A Buck a Book Reading Challenge is being hosted by DelGal over at DelGal's Book Reviews.

The idea behind the challenge is to reward yourself by paying yourself a buck each time you read a book during 2010. Here is what she says, "Now, once Dec 31 comes, you must spend this saved money on something fun just for yourself (no paying bills, no buying gifts for someone else!), to begin the next year... Maybe more books for the new year? A nice dinner out to celebrate reading? The possibilities are endless!"

Once the challenge is completed on December 31st, let your fellow challenge participants know what you spent your money on!!!

What a fun challenge...seeing as how I am shooting for 100 books this year...should be a great gift to myself!!

Will keep monthly stats as to how many books I've read:

January... 10 Books...$10...Total = $10
February... 6 Books...$6...Total = $16
March... 10 Books...$10...Total = $26
April...
May...
June...
July...
August...
September...
October...
November...
December...

The Playboy Sheikh's...Sharon Kendrick

2010-01-21T08:00:00.003-05:00

Title: The Playboy Sheikh's Virgin Stable-Girl
Author: Sharon Kendrick
Publisher: Harlequin Presents
Published: Aug 2009
Pages: 177
Genre: Category Romance
Series: The Royal House of Karedes

I read this book due to the fact that I had a "Title" requirement for my Harlequin/Silhouette Challenge, and I needed a Category Romance for my TBR #2 Challenge. Go here to see other TBR Challenge participants.

If it hadn't been for those two Challenges...I probably wouldn't have finished reading it. Just wasn't my idea of a "Sheikh" romance. Typical arrogant sheikh and virgin heroine. However, Kaliq was a little over the top in his arrogance...and I quote "I excite the attention of women wherever I go - they are naturally drawn to my power and virility." His term of endearment he uses in regards to Eleni is...Lizard. I have a real problem being compared to a lizard. Now, Eleni I kind of liked. She stood up to his arrogance and didn't have a problem speaking her mind even though she was his stable-girl. The secondary characters I liked were the horses. Yes, ladies, the horses. I liked the aspect that Eleni was such a great rider. I have a fondness for horses and horsemanship.

Here is the blurb on the back of the book...

Polo-playing sheikh Prince Kaliq loves his women as much as his horses. They're wild, willing, and he's their master!

Stable girl Eleni is a local Calistan. Raised by her brutal father on the horse-racing circuit, she feels unlovable. When her precious horses are given to Sheikh Kaliq, she refuses to be parted from them.

The playboy sheikh is determined to bed Eleni - and when Kaliq realizes she's a virgin, the challenge only beocmes more interesting...

Rating: 2/5
Pages: 177
Completed: 1/18/10

Twelve by Twelve Challenge 2010

2010-01-19T12:20:00.027-05:00

This looks like a fun challenge being hosted by numerous bloggers out there in blogland. I first heard about this on J.Kaye's BookBlog, and this is what she posts:

There will be twelve book bloggers, each hosting their own Just Read More Novel’s Month throughout 2010.
Participants can join in one, two, or all twelve of these separate reading challenges. Each month starts a brand new reading challenge. And the goal? To simply read more novels. Each of us will follow the guidelines set for January’s NaJuReMoNoMo.

To read the guidelines, find out who all is hosting this challenge (a different blogger for each month), and all the other tidbits you need to know in order to participate...head on over to J. Kaye's Book Blog.

I know I'm in for all twelve months.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

January - Being hosted by NaJuReMoNoMo

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb - 1/3/10
The Warrior by Sharon Sala - 1/6/10
Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer - 1/8/10
If He's Wicked by by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10
The House on Tradd Street by Karen White - 1/19/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods - 1/23/10
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10

February - Being Hosted by J. Kaye's Book Blog

Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10
Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10

March - Being Hosted by Alaine - Queen of Happy Endings

Zack: Armed and Dangerous by Cheyenne Mccray - 3/1/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10
Wild, Wicked & Wanton by Jaci Burton 3/7/10
Rewriting Monday by Jodi Thomas 3/8/10
Bound, Branded & Brazen by Jaci Burton 3/13/10
Sarah's Child by Linda Howard 3/15/10
Fragile by Shiloh Walker 3/21/10
Bride, Bought and Paid For by Helen Bianchin 3/22/10
Laid Bare by Lauren Dane 3/25/10
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis 3/27/10

April - Being Hosted by One Persons Journey Through a World of Books

Broken by Shiloh Walker 4/8/10
"D" is for Deadbeat by Sue Grafton 4/10/10
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts 4/10/10
A Whisper of Eternity by Amanda Ashley 4/13/10
Amazing Gracie by Sherryl Woods 4/15/10
Suddenly One Summer by Barbara Freethy 4/19/10
311 Pelican Court by Debbie Macomber 4/26/10
Sweet Persuasion by Maya Banks 4/26/10

May - Being Hosted by Page Turners

True Blue by Luanne Rice 5/3/10
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts 5/10/10
Something About You by Julie James 5/7/10

Paranormal Reading Challenge 2010

2010-01-19T11:47:00.003-05:00

With my love of paranormal books...I had to join another Paranormal Reading Challenge. This is being hosted by Wings at Storywings.

Here are the rules:

1.The Paranormal Reading Challenge is for anyone who loves reading ANYTHING paranormal!!!
- Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, Ghosts, Angels etc...so the scope is pretty big!!!
- The books can be any sub genre under Paranormal - romance, YA, mystery, etc.

2. The book has to be a book. No free short stories, or writing sites.

3. If you are a blogger please post a link back to this challenge on your page to let others join in the fun. -Non-bloggers - it's ok, you can join to and you can keep track of your progress by yourself, and post a comment on the wrap-up page, or you can send comments to this page to keep track of your progress.

4. Cross-overs from other challenges are accepted. As are re-reads. Books that were started in 2009 don't count.

5. Challenge starts from 1st January 2010 and ends on 31st December 2010

6. Levels:

Human - 5 books
Witch - 10 books
Oracle - 20 books
Were - 30 books
Vampire - 40 books
Angel - 50 books

Of the 6 levels...I am going to go for the Oracle level...(maybe push for the Were level).

Here is the list of books with links to my reviews:

The House on Tradd Street by Karen White - 1/19/10

Read Your Name Challenge 2010

2010-01-19T11:16:00.005-05:00

Victoria from Phantom Inkheart is hosting the Read Your Name Challenge again this year. It runs from 1/1/10 to 12/31/10 and the rules are pretty easy:

Using your first name, or blogger name, or your pets name, or even your favorite literary character's name; whichever you like, choose books with first title letters that spell out your name. (Audio books and eBooks are also okay.) Such as my name: Victoria. the first book's title would start with the letter V, then the next book title begins with I, etc. Make sense? (I hope so!) :p

Then link back to the dedicated blog with your reviews or your book list.

Here is the list of books that I have chosen with links my reviews:

Here is the list of books that I have chosen (authors' names that begin with letters in my name).

Kery, Beth - Release - 2/21/10
Ashley, Amanda - Night's Master - 2/13/10
Roberts, Nora - Vision in White - 2/26/10
A

666 Paranormal Reading Challenge 2010

2010-01-17T11:27:00.003-05:00

The 666 Paranormal Reading Challenge has changed somewhat this year. Instead of reading 6 books in 6 different categories (which I really enjoyed)...there are levels of reading that has to do with the number 6. There are 4 different levels to choose from:

6 Books – Shadow
12 Books – Wraith
18 Books – Ghoul
24 Books – Creature of the Night

Here are the Rules:

- You do not have to have a list of books prior to signing up.
- The books must be paranormal or horror, this includes things such as urban fantasy and paranormal romance.
- It can include ebooks and audiobooks.
- It can be a book that you have read before and are rereading because you love it.
- All books have to be started after December 31, 2009.

So, if you love paranormal books like I do...head on over to Morbid Romantic (who is hosting this challenge) and sign up for the fun!!!

I choose to do the Creature of the Night level and read 24 books!!

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10

Themed Reading Challenge 2010

2010-01-16T17:10:00.002-05:00

Wendy over at Caribousmom is hosting the Themed Reading Challenge. The challenge runs from 2/14/10 through 8/14/10. The rules have changed a little bit from last year:

Readers may join at ANY TIME between now and August 14th.
Books should be chosen from the reader’s TBR pile (this may be an actual physical pile or a virtual pile).
The goal is to read AT LEAST 5 books linked by theme.
Overlaps with other challenges are allowed.
Readers may change their list of books OR their theme(s) at any time.

Readers may choose from three different levels of participation:

Read at least 5 books which share the same theme.
Read at least 5 books which share TWO themes.
Read at least 5 books which share MORE THAN TWO themes.

I'm going to go with 5 books that share two themes. My two themes are female authors who write vampire books. (I know, the same as last year...not very original, but I enjoy the paranormal genre!!!).

Here is my book list:

Charlaine Harris - All Together Dead
Amanda Ashley - Everlasting Kiss
Lynda Hilburn - Dark Harvest
J.R. Ward - Dark Lover
Amanda Ashley - Night's Master

If He's Wicked - Hannah Howell

2010-01-16T15:58:00.005-05:00

Title: If He's Wicked
Author: Hannah Howell
Publisher: Zebra
Published: 2009
Pages: 357
Genre: Historical/Paranormal
Series: Wherlocke Book #1

Hannah Howell has penned another great read as far as this reader is concerned. The suspense surrounding the hero develops to a final showdown that has you turning the pages to see how it ends. The relationship between Julian and Chloe grows each moment they are together until the passion can no longer be contained.

It all begins with a vision...Chloe has glimpses into the future that reveals to her the terrible plot against Lord Julian. Her psychic ability allows her to save Julian's newborn son from death, and warn Julian that sinister forces are indeed at hand.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3.75/5
Pages: 357
Completed: 1/16/10

On the Porch Swing Challenge 2010

2010-01-10T15:33:00.002-05:00

ON THE PORCH SWING! Yahoo Group Challenge

1. Read two books whose title contains the first letter of your first and last name - for example - for me - I would read "The History of Love" or "Land of a Thousand Hills. You can do it in either order HL or LH - or do two of the same - two HL's or two LH's.... (hope this makes sense!)

My two books would be...KT or TK

2. Read two books by an author whose first name begins with a "D" - this can be two male authors - two female authors - or one of each. Since I tend to read few books by male authors, I may try to do both of mine for this challenge as male authors.

3. Read one book by a female author whose first name is Mary

4. Read a biography about someone you have always been interested in - or just pick someone you have never heard much about

5. Read a book of short stories

AND - BONUS POINTS!

Alphabet Challenge - this challenge consists of keeping track of each book you read that fits the letters of the alphabet. Can you make all 26!! It will be fun to see what titles you all come up with for the letters "Q", "X", and "Z"!

You can see my progress of the Alphabet Challenge here.

Here is my book list:

Before Sunrise - Diana Palmer

2010-01-10T14:46:00.004-05:00

Title: Before Sunrise
Author: Diana Palmer
Publisher: HQN
Published: 2005
Pages: 296 Hardcover
Genre: Romantic Suspense

This is only the second book that I have read by Diana Palmer, and I enjoyed it very much. It is one of those curl up and "feel good" reads that you need every now and then. The relationship between Jeremiah and Phoebe steam up a few windows, and the suspense is engaging.

In Phoebe's last year of college, she met and fell in love with Jeremiah while he was investigating some environmental sabotage. They made plans to meet in DC and continue their relationship, but 3 weeks after her graduation she receives a newspaper clipping in the mail - Jeremiah's wedding announcement!!

Three years later, Phoebe has picked up the pieces of her shattered heart and is now the curator of a Native American museum near a Reservation in North Carolina. One day she receives a phone call from an anthropologist claiming to have discovered a Neanderthal skeleton in a nearby cave. But before Phoebe can pursue the matter, the man turns up dead and the FBI sends in Jeremiah to investigate.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3.5/5
Pages: 296
Completed: 1/8/10

The Warrior - Sharon Sala

2010-01-06T16:52:00.006-05:00

Title: The Warrior
Author: Sharon Sala
Publisher: Mira
Published: 2009
Pages: 427
Genre: Romance/Paranormal

Sharon Sala is one of my favorite authors. And The Warrior is going on my Top Ten list of 2010. I love books with heroes that are Native American and delve into the supernatural.

John Nightwalker has been roaming the Earth for over 500 years searching for the reincarnated soul of the man who destroyed his village and killed his people. He meets up with Alicia who is on the run from her father. A father that is trying to kill her. John realizes that it is her father that is the reincarnated soul - so he sets out to use her to get to him. What develops is a fast-paced story that has you turning the pages to see what happens next. Will Alicia forgive John for using her to track her father? Why does her father want her dead? and will he succeed?

The Warrior is filled with suspense, intrigue, passion and the supernatural. I loved the two main characters in this story...each with their own destiny, how they look past their differences and learned to love each other. One thing the story doesn't tie up at the end is whether Alicia ever comes to believe John about his past. I guess it is not important...but this reader would love to know.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4.5/5
Pages: 427
Completed: 1/6/10

Colorful Reading Challenge 2010

2010-01-06T13:00:00.001-05:00

THE COLORFUL READING CHALLENGE

I don't know if I will be able to complete this challenge - but I am going to give it a go. The Colorful Reading Challenge is being hosted by Rebecca at Lost in Books.

The idea behind this challenge is to read 9 different books with 9 different colors in the title. Having trouble coming up with titles?? She posts a list of suggestions that might help you in your selection. The contest runs January 1st through December 31st, 2010.

Here is my book list:

Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10

National Just Read More Novels Month

2010-01-04T10:59:00.004-05:00

NaJuReMoNoMo encourages people all over the world to take some time and curl up with a good book.

The guidelines are:

Must Be A Novel. Works of fiction only, please. Memoirs, non-fiction, how-to books, and Garfield collections don't count.
Memoirs Aren't Novels. No matter how made up the story, anything ostensibly true isn't a novel. Also known as The James Frey Rule.
Start and Finish in January. I guess if you got some cool books for Christmas, Hanukkah or some other gift-giving event and jumped the gun, you can't be blamed. But I only count books I start and finish within the 31 day window.
Re-reading Doesn't Count. Try something new. Read something by your favorite author or try an entirely new author or tackle that novel you have always wanted to read.
Have Fun. Nobody is grading you or paying you or judging you. Read what you like and like what you read.

There are cute little badges that you can earn depending on how many books you read during the month of January. This will be my first year in joining this challenge...I really enjoy the "no pressure" aspect of it - LOL!!

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb - 1/3/10
The Warrior by Sharon Sala - 1/6/10
Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer - 1/8/10
If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10
The Playboy Sheikh's...by Sharon Kendrick - 1/18/10
The House on Tradd Street by Karen White - 1/19/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods - 1/23/10
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10

2010 TBR Challenge

2010-01-04T10:38:00.005-05:00

Here is another TBR challenge that I joined last year and would like to continue again this year. The 2010 TBR Challenge is being hosted by Avid Book Reader. Last year she had different suggestions each month on what type of book to read. You had the choice of either doing the suggestion or just pulling a book from your TBR stack and read it.

There are only two rules...post your review on the designated day...and try to read books that have been on your TBR stack the longest (although this one isn't mandatory).

If she is doing themes again this year...I will post them as soon as she gets them up on her blog.

Here is my book list:

CATEGORY ROMANCE - The Playboy Sheikh's Virgin Stable-Girl by Sharon Kendrick - 1/18/10
HERO IN PURSUIT - Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
MYSTERY - Fragile by Shiloh Walker - 3/21/10

Book Blogger Recommendation Challenge 2010

2010-01-02T12:58:00.003-05:00

What an awesome list of books to choose from!! The 2010 Book Blogger Recommendation Challenge is being hosted by Reading with Tequila. All you have to do is choose a level of participation and read that many books from the Book Blogger Recommendation List. There are 234 books to choose from...so I know you can find at least 5 (Level I) that interest you!!!

Level I - Read 5 books from the 2009 Book Blogger Recommendation List
Level II - Read 10 books
Level III - Read 15 books
Level IV - Read 20 books
Level V - Read 20+ books

Go over to the List Post and discover new books that you would like to read...then head on over to the Sign-Up Post and join in the fun!!!

Here is my book list:

Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
Undead and Unwed by Mary Janice Davidson
One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
Marley & Me by Josh Grogan
The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

There are a few others that I want to read but don't want to lock myself into reading a lot of "pre-chosen" books. If the mood strikes, and I read more...I will increase my level to Level II.

Awesome Author Challenge 2010

2010-01-02T11:03:00.003-05:00

I have been wanting to participate in a challenge like this for a while now. Giving credit where credit is due when someone recommends a fantastic author for me to try!!! The Awesome Author Challenge will allow me to do just that. "The idea behind this challenge is to read works by authors who have been recommended to you time and again, but you haven't gotten around to reading them yet."

The challenge is being hosted by Alyce over at At Home with Books. There are 4 levels of participation:

Easy: Choose three authors and read at least one title from each author.

Moderate: Choose six authors and read at least one title from each author.

Challenging: Choose ten authors and read at least one title from each author.

Over-Achieving: Anything over ten authors.

I am going to join the Moderate level of reading six authors.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

2010 Pub Challenge

2010-01-01T16:23:00.006-05:00

I joined this the past 2 years and have really enjoyed reading the newly published books of the year. The 2010 Pub Challenge is being hosted by 3M at 1morechapter.com.

The rules of the challenge are as follows:

Read a minimum of 10 books first published in 2010. You don’t have to buy these. Library books, unabridged audios, or ARCs are all acceptable. To qualify as being first published in 2010, it must be the first time that the book is published in your own country. For example, if a book was published in Australia, England, or Canada in 2009, and then published in the USA in 2010, it counts (if you live in the USA). Newly published trade paperbacks and mass market paperbacks do not count if there has been a hardcover/trade published before 2010.
No children’s/YA titles allowed, since we’re at the ‘pub.’
At least 5 titles must be fiction.
Crossovers with other challenges are allowed.
You can add your titles as you go, and they may be changed at any time.

So head on over there and start reading some great books published in 2010.

Here is my list of books:

Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Bound, Branded, & Brazen by Jaci Burton - 3/13/10
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10

2010 Reading Resolutions Challenge

2009-12-31T13:04:00.002-05:00

This sounds like a fun challenge...to make some New Year's resolutions in regards to reading. "They can be anything you would like to accomplish in the coming year in the realm of reading, book blogging, or perhaps personal growth." The 2010 Reading Resolutions Challenge is being hosted by Jenny over at Jenny Loves to Read. It will be interesting to see how well I do...

Here are my resolutions:

Read 50 books from the library. I want to utilize the library more.
Read 25 "New to me" Authors.
Read 25 of my own books.
Finish the Sookie Stackhouse Series.
Start 6 new series.
Review every book I read in 2010...(this is for a challenge that I am in).

Six seems like a good number to stop at...LOL. I want to keep it simple so that I can meet my goals.

What are your resolutions for the new year??

To Be Read Challenge 2010

2009-12-30T11:27:00.013-05:00

I have failed miserably with the challenge the last two years...but persistence is the key. I think my problem has been that I have been listing books I want to make myself read instead of books I think I will be reading. So, I am joining the TBR Challenge again in 2010 and am determined to complete it. This challenge is being hosted by MizB and she now has a sign-up post.

In order to participate in this challenge...you have to make up a list of twelve books you are going to read next year. This list cannot be changed after January 1, 2010!! However, you can make an alternate list of 12 books that can be substituted for a book on the original list. You can either read one book a month, or read them as fast or as slow as you want. You have to have the list posted somewhere so others can read it...whether it be in the comment section (for those that don't have a blog), or posted on your blog. Please see her sign-up post for further rules.

Here is my Original List with links to my reviews:

All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris
Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris
Dark Harvest by Lynda Hilburn
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10
"D" is for Deadbeat by Sue Grafton - 4/10/10
Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10
The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks
The Ocean Between Us by Susan Wiggs
Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10
311 Pelican Court by Debbie Macomber
Under Fire by Jo Davis
Naked in Death by J.D. Robb - 1/3/10

Here is my Alternate List with links to my reviews:

Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods - 1/23/10
Orchid Beach by Stuart Woods
Dark Legend by Christine Feehan
Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning
Shelter Mountain by Robin Carr
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Trust Me by Brenda Novak
One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
Forget Me Not by Marliss Melton
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10

Trial by Fire - Jo Davis

2009-12-28T13:13:00.003-05:00

Title: Trial by Fire
Author: Jo Davis
Publisher: Signet
Published: 2008
Pages: 352
Genre: Romance; Suspense
Series: Firefighters of Station Five - Book #1

Jo Davis is a "new to me" author, and she has already made it to my "auto buy" list!! I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series...Under Fire.

Trial by Fire is packed full of sizzling passion, sharp wit, painful memories, page-turning suspense, and intrigue. Can you tell I loved this book? LOL.

Howard "Six-Pack" Paxton is our tortured hero, traumatized by an abusive childhood and targeted by a sadistic killer. Kat is our strong heroine, with the ability to take on Howard, help him overcome tragedy, light up his life by bringing joy and understanding, and match him scorching passion for scorching passion.

I loved their story. Jo Davis has a way of weaving together romance and intrigue without one overshadowing the other. Her characters are crafted in such a way that they stay with you long after the story is over. Her secondary storyline that includes all the members of Station Five makes you want to come back for more!! I can't wait to read their stories and see how Ms. Davis brings them all together.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4.5/5
Pages: 352
Completed: 12/27/09

Books to Read Before I Die 2010

2009-12-26T20:10:00.006-05:00

This sounds like a fun challenge. Books to Read Before I Die Challenge is being hosted by Diane over at Bibliophile By The Sea.

She has posted the guidelines as follows:

Between now and December 31, 2009, make a list of between 10 and 20 Books to Read Before You Die. (depending on interest, this may be an annual event challenge).
The books on your list can come from your stacks or the library, and be in print or audio format.
Overlaps with other challenges is fine with me.
Once you've created your post with tentative titles, THEN sign up using Mr. Linky, by pasting the link to your post, along with your name/blog name. This is how you will be registered. Finalize your list by 12/31/09 (no changes to the list after 12/31/09).
NOTE: If you don't have a blog, you can still sign up and join in the fun.
All bloggers who complete the challenge will be entered in giveaway to win an Amazon Gift Card.
Questions/comments, please feel free to comment or email me.

I am going for 12 books...here is my list with links to my reviews:

One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
Naked In Death by J.D. Robb - 1/3/10
All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning
Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris
Under Fire by Jo Davis
The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10
Dark Harvest by Lynda Kilburn
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
Trust Me by Brenda Novak

In Death Reading Challenge 2010

2009-12-26T19:16:00.002-05:00

I have been wanting to read this series and now is a great way to get started. The In Death Reading Challenge is being hosted by Christine over at The Happily Ever After.

The rules of the challenge are to read at least one In Death book a month and then post a review at the end of each month.

Since I haven't read this series yet...I will be starting with the first book...Naked In Death.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

Children's Classics Mystery Challenge 2010

2009-12-23T09:47:00.002-05:00

Since I am already involved in the Nancy Drew Challenge, I thought this would be a great one to join too. The Children's Classics Mystery Challenge is being hosted by 5 Minutes for Books and it only runs from January 1, 2010 through June 30, 2010.

Here's what Carrie says:

Really, you are welcome to participate as much or as little as you like. The plan is to Make-Your-Own plan. Would you like to reread those Nancy Drew books you've had lying around? Trixie? Or mix and match! The choice is yours. All that we ask is that you write up an initial post saying that you and/or your children are going to be participating in this challenge and link back to this introductory post.

Then, on the second Tuesday of each month we will have a post wherein you can link up any and all reviews you have written in the previous month. For example, on January 12 you can link up your introductory post or any reviews you've completed, so feel free to start reading now. Books, movies, audio, and even video game (oh yes!) reviews may be included and are most welcome.

Which series qualifies as a classic? Anything that came into being before 1980.

Sounds like fun doesn't it?? I loved Nancy Drew as a child, and Carolyn Keene and Laura Ingalls Wilder gave me my love of books.

I am not sure how many books I can complete by June...however, if I am to complete the Nancy Drew Challenge as well...I should be on my way to 25 by June.

Here is my book list:

DIK Reading Challenge 2010

2009-12-22T11:49:00.006-05:00

The DIK ladies are hosting a challenge in 2010...the DIK Reading Challenge. Each month you will pick one of the 188 books that the DIK Ladies have brought to the island, read it, review it on your blog and then show them the link.

If you complete all 12 months...your name will be thrown into a drawing for a $50 gift card from Amazon/Borders/Barnes or Noble/Books A Million (you choose).

Swim on over to the Island and read all the rules so you can be sure to get your name in the drawing.

Here is my tentative book list with links to my reviews:

Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts - 4/10/10 - Amanda's DIK Pick
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
The Darkest Knight by Gena Showalter
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10 - Lea's DIK Pick
One Summer by Karen Robards (??)

Books Won Reading Challenge 2010

2009-12-22T09:49:00.004-05:00

Books Won Reading Challenge 2010

I am not very lucky at winning books...but I recently won one over at There's No Such Thing as Too Many Books from Blanche. It was Sweet Persuasion by Maya Banks. So, I will hold off reading it until the new year so that I can participate in this challenge.

The Books Won Reading Challenge is just that...reading books that you have won from other book bloggers. This challenge is being hosted by Teddy over at So Many Precious Books, So Little Time.

There are 4 levels of participation:

Honorable Mention: Read 1-3 book you won.

Bronze: Read 4-6 books you won.

Silver: Read 7-9 Books you won.

Gold: Read 10 or more books you won.

However, once you pick a level - you can't go down a level, but you can go up during the course of the challenge.

One of the rules is that you must review each of the books that you have read...if you don't have a blog, then review them at Amazon, Powell's, etc.

Hop on over to Teddy's and read the rest of the rules and join in on the fun!!!

I am going with the Honorable Mention level due to the fact of my unlucky streak with winning books...however, if my luck changes I will increase to a higher level.

Here is my book list:

Sweet Persuasion by Maya Banks (Won from Blanche)
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane (Won from The Good, The Bad, and The Unread) 2/15/10
Release by Beth Kery (Won from Seductive Musings) 2/21/10

Curl up with a Book...and a Nook!!!

2009-12-21T15:44:00.002-05:00

Click HERE to enter Curl Up With a Book...and a Nook!!

Definitely Dead - Charlaine Harris

2009-12-20T19:51:00.004-05:00

Title: Definitely Dead
Author: Charlaine Harris
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2006
Pages: 324
Genre: Paranormal - Vampire, Shape Shifter, Psychic
Series: Sookie Stackhouse #6

I really think that Sookie Stackhouse enthusiasts will enjoy this book. A few loose ends are cleared up, new information is revealed, and there may be a new love interest in Sookie's life - but I'm not telling - LOL.

Sookie goes to New Orleans to clean out the apartment of her dead cousin and close the estate. Little does she know that she will discover something gruesome in the closet, become involved in the Queen of Louisiana's politics, and get herself kidnapped. All in all, another great adventure for Sookie.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 324
Completed: 12/19/09

Dear John - Nicholas Sparks

2009-12-19T14:55:00.002-05:00

Title: Dear John
Author: Nicholas Sparks
Publisher: Hatchette
Published: 2006
Pages: 276
Genre: Romance

What can I say...I just love Nicholas Sparks. He has a way of creating a story that takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions!! Always an author that moves me to tears...Dear John lived up to that reputation.

Told from the man's perspective...a love story that shows us what unconditional love is...tugs at the heartstrings...is touching and at times riveting. This one definitely goes on my keeper shelf.

John Tyree meets the girl of his dreams, and the attraction is mutual. But neither can foresee that 9/11 will change all that forcing John to choose between love and country. But Dear John is so much more than just a military love story...it deals with unconditional love...not only between two people, but family members too.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 5/5
Pages: 276
Completed: 12/19/09

Buy One Book and Read It 2010

2009-12-18T17:42:00.009-05:00

Seriously, who can actually pass up a challenge that encourages you to buy books!! Buy One Book and Read It challenges you to do just that...buy one book and read it. It is being hosted by My Friend Amy and there are three levels of participation:

Level One!
Buy one book and read it before December 31st, 2010.

Level Two!
Buy six books and read them before December 31st, 2010.

Level Three
Buy 12 books and read them before December 31st, 2010.

There is also a new twist this year...after you choose your level...then you need to choose an option:

Indie Option--Make sure the book or books you buy are purchased at an independent bookstore.
Book Blogger Option--Buy only books you learn about on book blogs.

I am shooting for Level 3 - buying and reading 12 books. However, I have to choose the Book Blogger option as there aren't any independent bookstores in my area.

Here is my list of books and who recommended them:

Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10 - bought from Amazon - learned about it from Pearl's World of Romance.
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10 - bought from Rhapsody - learned about it from Dear Author.
Wild, Wicked & Wanton by Jaci Burton - 3/7/10 - bought from Amazon - learned about it from Closetwriter
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10 - bought from Rhapsody - learned about it from Book Binge.

Time Travel Challenge 2010

2009-12-17T09:53:00.004-05:00

I am really hoping that the Time Travel Reading Challenge will help me continue on my journey through the Outlander series. I have read the first one and absolutely loved it!! I need to delve into the second book. Also, I want to continue both Karen Marie Moning's and Janet Chapman's Highlander series.

This challenge is being hosted by Alyce over at At Home With Books. It is a "no pressure" challenge where you decide how many books you want to read, and the time frame runs till the end of 2010. I am not sure when it starts...I am assuming January.

Here is my book list:

Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon
Highlander series by Janet Chapman
Highlander series by Karen Marie Moning
Somewhere in Time by Richard Matheson (loved the movie, but never read the book)

Romance Reading Challenge

2009-12-16T18:18:00.017-05:00

Isn't this a gorgeous button?? You know I just had to join this challenge, don't you?? LOL.

Naida at The Bookworm is once again hosting The Romance Reading Challenge in 2010. Your challenge, if you choose to accept it, is to read 5 romance novels in the year 2010. Now, don't think this is just Harlequin books...there are many different types of romances out there...contemporary, paranormal, suspense...as long as there is romantic love between the two main characters. However, it can be unrequited love too.

Even though Naida only wants us to choose 5 books - I am raising my challenge to 12 - since I read romance almost exclusively. Although in 2010 - I am going to try to broaden my reading and branch out to other genres.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

The Warrior by Sharon Sala - 1/6/10
Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer - 1/8/10
If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10
Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis - 3/27/10
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts - 4/10/10
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10

Support Your Local Authors Challenge

2009-12-14T10:42:00.004-05:00

My first perpetual challenge, but one I couldn't pass up. One of my favorite authors is a local author - Lori Foster. So, naturally I have to join the Support Your Local Authors! Challenge.

I have conducted a Google search and came up with a few other names...mostly Columbus area...but what I would consider local even though I live in Cincinnati.

There is no time limit to this challenge, you can join anytime. No rules except for having fun promoting your favorite local authors. This challenge is being hosted by Suey over at It's All About Books.

It will be interesting to see what other areas and authors are going to be represented.

Here is my book list:

Hard to Handle by Lori Foster (Cincinnati, Ohio) 3/1/10

Vampire Series 2010

2009-12-14T10:14:00.005-05:00

My favorite paranormal books have their own challenge. Yeah!! The Vampire Series Challenge is being hosted by MizB over at MizB's Reading Challenges.

There are four levels of participation:

Vampire Newbie: Read Book #1 of 3 different vampire series.

Vampire Addict: Reread 2 vampire series books you’ve already read; OR Read 2 more books from a vampire series that you’ve already started reading.

Vampire Enthusiast: Read 6 books from any series featuring vampires as key/main characters.

Vampire Lover: Read 3 full series featuring vampires as key/main characters.

Hop on over to her blog post to read more detailed rules and examples of each level.

Even though I am a vampire lover...3 full series is a bit much for me to accomplish next year with all my other challenges. Sooo, Vampire Enthusiast is what I am going for...reading 6 books from any series featuring vampires as key/main characters.

Here is my book list:

Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10 - Night Series Book #3

Mixology 2010

2009-12-13T21:21:00.003-05:00

This challenge is designed to help us set our reading goals for the year 2010. The 2010 Mixology Challenge is being hosted by Babbette over at Babbette's Book Blog.

The rules are simple:

1. List how many books total you want to read in 2010.

2. List no less than 4 categories for these books and determine how many you'll read in each category. Examples of categories:
by class: fiction / non-fiction / contemporary / classic / newly published / award winning (Booker, Pulitzer)
by genre: historical fiction, religious fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian literature, memoir, biography, personal or professional growth
by class of author: female / male / Asian / Middle Eastern
other: TBR / review (ARC) books

3. These books can overlap with other challenges AND even fit more than one category within this challenge.

4. Audio books do count; re-reads do not.

Here are my Mixology goals:

Read 100 books.
25 New Authors
12 Thriller/Suspense
25 TBR
25 Romance
25 Young Adult

Chunkster Challenge 2010

2009-12-10T10:34:00.002-05:00

I love this challenge...2010 Chunkster Challenge has been passed along to Wendy and has its own dedicated blog. This challenge is for anyone who loves to read those big chunky books...I'm talking about the ones that are over 450 pages. However, it is ADULT literature (so Twilight doesn't count).

Here are the Rules posted on the blog:

No Audio books in the chunkster. It just doesn't seem right. Words on paper for this one folks.
No e-Books allowed - we are reading traditional, fat books for this challenge.
Short Stories and Essay collections will not be counted.
Books may crossover with other challenges
Anyone may join. If you don't have a blog, just leave me a comment on this post with your progress (and to let me know you are playing)
You don't need to list your books ahead of time.
Once you pick a level, that's it...you're committed to that level!

There are three levels of participation:

The Chubby Chunkster - this option is for the reader who has a couple of large tomes on their TBR list, but really doesn't want to commit to much more than that. 3 books is all you need to finish this challenge.
Do These Books Make my Butt Look Big? - this option is for the slightly heavier reader who wants to commit to 4 Chunksters over the next twelve months.
Mor-book-ly Obese - This is for the truly out of control chunkster. For this level of challenge you must commit to 6 or more chunksters OR three tomes of 750 pages or more. You know you want to.....go on and give in to your cravings.

Since I am not sure what chunksters I have sitting around waiting to be read...I am going to go for the Chubby Chunkster level and read 3 books.

Here is my book list:

Take Another Chance Challenge 2010

2009-12-08T11:19:00.004-05:00

Even though it seems like I have joined over 100 challenges (not really but it feels like that - LOL), I really want to participate in this one too. The Take Another Chance Challenge is "all about taking chances with your reading by finding books to read in unusual or random ways." Jenners at Find Your Next Book Here is hosting this challenge again...with a few changes...she is offering different levels of participation and a longer time frame. The challenge runs from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010.

The three levels of particpation are:

A Small Gamble: Complete any 3 of the 12 challenges described below.
A Moderate Gamble: Complete any 6 of the 12 challenges described below.
Gambling It All: Complete all 12 of the challenges described below.

I will direct you to her post...where it describes each challenge in detail...I will only list the title of the challenges here.

Me, I am going for GAMBLING IT ALL and try to complete all 12 challenges.

Here is my book list:

1. Read your Doppelganger...

2. Blogroll Roulette...

3. 100 Best Books...

4. Prize Winner Book...

5. Title Word Count...

6. Genre Switch-Up...

7. Break a Prejudice...

8. Real and Inspired...

9. Same Word, Different Book...

10. Become a Character...

11. All in the Family...

12. Author Anthology Pick...

There will be a prize at the end of the challenge...a book of the winner's choice from Amazon (up to $25).

So go on over to Find Your Next Book and sign up for what sounds like a fantastic challenge.

Rainbow Connection Challenge 2010

2009-12-08T09:21:00.008-05:00

Isn't that a beautiful graphic?? I am joining the Rainbow Connection Challenge because it will work nicely with my A~Z Challenge. Sue is hosting this challenge, and it has its own dedicated blog.

The rules are simple...there are two levels to choose from:

Single Rainbow (reading 7 books) by either Author (first or last name) or Title starting with R, O, Y, G, B, I and V (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet) books.

Double Rainbow (reading 14 books) by Author (first or last name) and Title starting with R, O, Y, G, B, I and V (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet) books.

HOWEVER...the challenge only runs from January 1, 2010 to June 30, 2010. I think I am only going to try for the Single Rainbow...but if things work out...Double Rainbow here I come.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

R - Release by Beth Kery 2/21/10
O -
Y -
G -
B - Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer 1/8/10
I - If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell 1/16/10
V - Vision in White by Nora Roberts 2/26/10

R - Robb, J.D. - Naked in Death 1/3/10
O -
Y -
G - Grafton, Sue - "D" is for Deadbeat 4/10/10
B - Burton, Jaci - Wild, Wicked, & Wanton 3/7/10
I -
V -

Harlequin/Silhouette Romance Challenge 2010

2009-12-06T19:46:00.002-05:00

I participated in this challenge in 2009 and finished about the middle of the year. So, I am excited about joining again next year.

The Harlequin/Silhouette Romance Reading Challenge is being hosted by Book Dragon. It will run from 01/01/10 to 12/31/10, and all of the books must come from the Harlequin family of imprints. Read one book for each requirement for a total of six books.

Here are the requirements:

1) Read 1 book with a weather condition in the title (i.e. storm, rain, snow)

2) Read 1 book with a person's name in the title (i.e. Mary, John)

3) Read 1 book with a Title in the title (i.e. King, Prince, Princess, Sheik)

4) Read 1 book with a color in the title (i.e. red, blue, white)

5) Read 1 book by an author whose last name begins with the letter "R"

6) Read 1 book with an element in the title (earth, wind, fire, air, spirit)

You can read more about this challenge over at the sign-up post.

Here is my book list:

Wish I'd Read That Challenge 2010

2009-12-06T13:27:00.003-05:00

Oh boy...those ladies over at Royal Reviews are terrible enablers of book challenges - LOL. Here is yet another one I can't resist. The Wish I'd Read That Challenge is all about reducing that gigantic TBR pile that you might have.

As usual, there are 4 levels to choose from:

-- Curious – Read 3 books.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 books.

-- Addicted – Read 12 books.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 books.

Any book format counts...and you don't have to list them ahead of time. I love challenges like this since I am such a "fly by the seat of my pants" reader. I am signing up for the OBSESSED level and going to do my best in reducing my TBR mountain this year. However, with all the blogs I read, and the great reviews written by my blogger friends, I doubt very much the pile will be reduced...it will grow by leaps and bounds.

So dust off those books and head on over to Royal Reviews and sign-up for the challenge.

Here is my book list:

The House on Tradd Street by Karen White - 1/19/10

Contemporary Romance Reading Challenge 2010

2009-12-05T20:48:00.013-05:00

Another challenge for a genre that I absolutely love....contemporary romance!! The Contemporary Romance Reading Challenge is being hosted by Pearl over at Pearl's World of Romance.

This challenge is for straight contemporary romances only...no paranormal, fantasy, time-travel, etc. Category romances are okay, as well as sexy, steamy romances.

The rules are to read 10 contemporary romances between 01/01/10 through 12/31/10. You don't need to list your books ahead of time, and you can change your mind throughout the year.

So all you romance lovers out there...jump on over to Pearl's and sign up for this fantastic challenge.

Here is my list of books:

Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10
Fragile by Shiloh Walker - 3/21/10
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis - 3/27/10
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts - 4/10/10
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10

TwentyTen Reading Challenge 2010

2009-12-05T10:57:00.013-05:00

TwentyTen Reading Challenge sounds like an interesting challenge to me. It is being hosted by Bart over at Bart's Bookshelf. The idea is to read 20 books that fit into 10 categories in 2010 (get the picture?? LOL).

Here's what Bart says:

Rules:

Read 2 books from each category, making a requirement of 20 books total.
The categories are intended to be loose guidelines only, if you decide it fits, then it fits. (Apart from those marked **)
Categories marked with ** have tighter rules, and these must be followed.
Each book can only qualify for one category.
Crossovers with other challenges are allowed.
Books read from 01/01/2010 to 31/12/2010 are eligible.

Here are the categories:

1). Young Adult

2). T.B.R.** -

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb - 1/3/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10

3). Shiny & New -

If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10 - bought from Rhapsody
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler 1/28/10 - bought from Amazon

4). Bad Blogger's**

Wild, Wicked & Wanton by Jaci Burton - 3/7/10 - recommended by Closetwriter

5). Charity

The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10 - Library Book Sale

6). New in 2010

Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10 - won from The Good, The Bad, and The Unread
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10 - won from Seductive Musings

7). Older Than You

8). Win! Win!

Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10

9). Who Are You Again?

10). Up To You! I choose Paranormal -

The House on Tradd Street by Karen White - 1/19/10
Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10

Go on over the Bart's post on the challenge and read up on what the categories mean and then sign up to participate!!! That's all there is to it...besides reading the books, of course!!

Pages Read Challenge 2010

2009-12-05T10:01:00.002-05:00

The Pages Read Challenge is being hosted again by Kathrin over at Secret Dreamworld of a Bookaholic.

The idea behind the challenge is to pick the number of pages you want to attempt to read in 2010. Doesn't matter whether your goal is 10,000 of 100,000 pages - anyone can join.

Write a blog post about it and post the number of pages you are planning to read. I am going to keep track in this post as well as on my sidebar. Then go and comment on Kathrin's post, and she will add you to the list.

My goal for 2010 is going to be 30,000 pages (you can always up the amount as you go along - so you don't have to choose an extremely high amount).

0 / 30,000 words. 0% done!

Dead as a Doornail - Charlaine Harris

2009-12-04T18:57:00.005-05:00

Title: Dead as a Doornail
Author: Charlaine Harris
Publisher: Berkley
Published: 2009
Pages: 295
Genre: Paranormal
Series: Sookie Stackhouse - Book #5

I love this series so much...Sookie is a down-to-earth, hardworking, kind, and compassionate heroine. She doesn't have many close friends, but those she does have she considers family...and she'll do anything to protect her family. Charlaine Harris creates a world that you want to return to again and again.

Then, of course, there are the vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings. What an array of characters to liven up the night!! Ever since Sookie started dating a vampire (in the first book), she has been pulled into many adventures - some of them deadly.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 295
Completed: 12/4/09

eBook Challenge 2010

2009-12-04T11:19:00.005-05:00

Ahhhh...how I do love eBooks!!! I have a huge collection mostly in Palm format...so who could not be more excited about Barnes and Nobel coming out with their eReader that reads this format!!! The Nook is something I am looking forward to getting in 2010. However, I digress.

So the eBook Challenge is right up my alley...it is being hosted by none other than...Royal Reviews. (I think they took over a lot of J-Kaye's challenges this year at J-Kaye's request.)

Once again, there are 4 levels:

-- Curious – Read 3 E-Books.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 E-Books.

-- Addicted – Read 12 E-Books.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 E-Books.

I am definitely going for the OBSESSED level...because that is what I am...obsessed with eBooks.

Here is my book list:

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb - 2/5/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10

Book Junkie's Birthday Bash

2009-12-03T13:38:00.002-05:00

Here is something I don't normally do on my challenge's blog...but this was too good to pass up!!

Book Junkie is having a Birthday Bash where ONE winner will receive 35 books!!! Can you believe it??? It is her birthday - she will be turning 35 in December.

Sooooo - head on over there and look at all the goodies she has to give away to ONE lucky winner.

Chick Lit Challenge 2010

2009-12-03T12:12:00.004-05:00

How could I resist this cute button?? LOL. After reading several different definitions of Chick Lit, I realized that I read a lot from this genre. So joining the Chick Lit Challenge will be an easy one for me. It is being hosted by The Twiga Blog.

All you have to do is read 8 books during 2010. Books can be listed ahead of time or as you go along. I already have one to add to the list that was recommended and reviewed by another blog just today. The Secret of Joy by Melissa Senate which was reviewed by Book Binge.

So hop on over and visit Twiga and sign up for her challenge!!

I know I am wishing my life away...but I can't wait for 2010 to start - so many great challenges and so many fantastic books I want to read!!

Here is my book list:

The Secret of Joy by Melissa Senate

Royal's Romance Reading Challenge 2010

2009-12-03T09:25:00.016-05:00

As I am an avid romance reader...this challenge called to me so I had to join. Once again, the Romance Reading Challenge is being hosted by Royal Reviews for the year 2010. This year the challenge includes all kinds of sub-genres...paranormal, YA, historical, contemporary, etc. , and any book format counts.

There are 4 levels you can choose from:

-- Curious – Read 3 Romance Fiction novels.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 Romance Fiction novels.

-- Addicted – Read 12 Romance Fiction novels.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 Romance Fiction novels.

Of course, I am choosing OBSESSED since I am obsessed with romance novels - LOL.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

The Warrior by Sharon Sala - 1/6/10
Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer - 1/8/10
If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10
Fragile by Shiloh Walker - 3/21/10
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis - 3/27/10
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts - 4/10/10
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10

Black Hills - Nora Roberts

2009-12-02T17:10:00.003-05:00

Title: Black Hills
Author: Nora Roberts
Publisher: Putnam
Published: 2009
Pages: 371
Genre: Romantic Suspense

Not your typical romantic suspense novel. Black Hills is a story that will intrigue any animal lover too. The story revolves around Lil, who runs a wildlife refuge and Cooper, who was the love of Lil's life. Circumstances separated them for twelve years. Now, back together again....they have to rediscover their love, learn to trust again, and keep Lil safe from the terror that is stalking her.

I loved this story due to the backdrop of the wildlife refuge. Not only is this a romance filled with suspense, but we learn a lot about the big cats and what it takes to protect them. I love the cougar and enjoyed their story as much as I did Lil's and Cooper's.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 4/5
Pages: 371
Completed: 12/1/09

2nd Challenge 2010

2009-12-02T10:06:00.006-05:00

Royal Reviews is hosting another challenge that is near and dear to my heart. The 2nd Challenge is all about reading the second book in a series or a second book by an author you have only tried once. I have found some really great authors this year and look forward to reading more of their work. Since I am also joining 1st in a Series Challenge...reading the second book works our nicely.

Once again, there are 4 levels to this challenge:

-- Curious – Read 3 novels that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

I am going with the ADDICTED level on this one.

Here is my book list:

2nd in Series - Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10
2nd time read author - Fragile by Shiloh Walker - 3/25/10
2nd time read author - Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis - 3/27/10

1st in a Series 2010

2009-12-01T18:27:00.003-05:00

There are several series that I am interested in starting next year. What better way than to join a challenge...The 1st in a Series Challenge.

This is being hosted by Royal Reviews, and it entails reading the first book in a series. Now me personally, I don't count a trilogy as a series...but that is just my personal preference.

There are 4 levels:

-- Curious– Read 3 novels that are first in a series.

-- Fascinated – Read 6 novels that are first in a series.

-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are first in a series.

-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels that are first in a series.

You can change your level and book list at any time...right now, I think I am going for the Fascinated level

Here is the list of series I would like to start:

Naked in Death - Eve Dallas Series by J.D. Robb
One for the Money - Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich
Real Murders - Aurora Teagarden Series by Charlaine Harris
The House on Tradd Street - Tradd Street Series by Karen White - 1/19/10

Read 'n' Review 2010

2009-12-01T18:05:00.027-05:00

Since I review almost all the books I read in a year anyway, I thought it would be great to join this challenge. The Read 'n' Review Challenge is being hosted again this year by MizB. The idea behind this challenge is to review every book you read in 2010.

She encourages us to keep our reviews clean and respectful even if you didn't like the book. The reviews can be long or short; eBooks and Audios are included; and you may overlap with other challenges.

Here is my book list:

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb - 1/3/10
The Warrior by Sharon Sala - 1/6/10
Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer - 1/8/10
If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell - 1/16/10
The Playboy Sheikh's...by Sharon Kendrick - 1/18/10
The House on Tradd Street by Karen White - 1/19/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods - 1/23/10
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10
Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10
Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Zack: Armed and Dangerous by Cheyenne McCray - 3/1/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10
Wild, Wicked, & Wanton by Jaci Burton - 3/7/10
Rewriting Monday by Jodi Thomas - 3/8/10
Bound, Branded, & Brazen by Jaci Burton - 3/13/10
Sarah's Child by Linda Howard - 3/21/10
Fragile by Shiloh Walker - 3/21/10
Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis - 3/27/10
"D" is for Deadbeat by Sue Grafton - 4/10/10
Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts - 4/10/10
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10

Chill Baby Chill 2010

2009-11-30T10:00:00.024-05:00

Completed 3/19/10

The Chill Baby, Chill Challenge runs from 12/21/09 through 3/19/10 and is being hosted by Book Dragon at Book Dragon's Lair.

The rules are extremely easy...just read 6 books...they can be anything you want...other challenge books, new books, TBR books, etc. You don't have to list them early. If you review your books...post a link in the comment section. Then do a wrap-up post in March. That's all there is to it!!

I love the picture for this challenge, too cute. So, join in on the challenge, relax, and have fun!!

Here is my list of books with links to my reviews:

Trial by Fire - Jo Davis - 12/27/09
Naked in Death - J.D. Robb - 1/3/10
The Warrior - Sharon Sala - 1/6/10
Before Sunrise - Diana Palmer - 1/8/10
If He's Wicked - Hannah Howell - 1/16/10
The House on Tradd Street - Karen White - 1/19/10
Born in Fire by Nora Roberts - 1/21/10
Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods - 1/23/10
Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler - 1/28/10
Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe - 1/29/10
Shadow Prey by John Sandford - 2/5/10
Night's Master by Amanda Ashley - 2/13/10
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane - 2/15/10
The Carpenter's Lady by Barbara Delinsky - 2/19/10
Release by Beth Kery - 2/21/10
Vision in White by Nora Roberts - 2/26/10
Zack: Armed and Dangerous by Cheyenne McCray - 3/1/10
Hard to Handle by Lori Foster - 3/1/10
Wild, Wicked & Wanton by Jaci Burton - 3/7/10
Rewriting Monday by Jodi Thomas - 3/8/10
Bound, Branded, & Brazen by Jaci Burton - 3/13/10
Sarah's Child by Linda Howard - 3/15/10

Young Adult Challenge 2010

2009-11-29T14:29:00.003-05:00

Since I joined the Nancy Drew Challenge, I thought joining J-Kaye's Young Adult Reading Challenge would work out nicely. She has 4 levels to her challenge:

--The Mini YA Reading Challenge – Read 12 Young Adult novels.

--Just My Size YA Reading Challenge – Read 25 Young Adult novels.

--Stepping It Up YA Reading Challenge – Read 50 Young Adult novels.

--Super Size Me YA Reading Challenge – Read 75 Young Adult novels.

You can read the rest of the rules at her sign-up post.

I am thinking of going for Super Size Me. I want to read some other YA novels besides all of the Nancy Drew books I am going to read. (I still have to finish the Twilight series - LOL).

Here is my book list:

Nancy Drew Challenge 2010

2009-11-29T13:49:00.003-05:00

I absolutely LOVE this challenge. The Nancy Drew Challenge is being hosted by Deborah at Books, Movies and Chinese Food. The idea is to read all of the 56 YELLOW hardback books. I used to collect these as a kid - I was so hooked on Nancy drew. I can't wait to revisit my old friends. There are several editions to these first 56 books - but the challenge is to read the yellow spine ones.

Other than the stipulation about the yellow spines...the rules are pretty easy. Challenge runs from 1/1/10 to 12/31/10 and you can skip over the books you've already read as a child. I am going to start from the first book and read/re-read all 56. It sounds like a lot of books, but they are really fast reads. Review and blogs are not required.

Here is the list of books in order:

Genre Challenge 2010

2009-11-28T11:09:00.007-05:00

I love reading many different genres, and I thought this challenge would fit in nicely next year.

This Genre Challenge is being hosted by 5Peasinapod over at 2 Many Good Books, 2 Little Time! For those who get stuck reading the same genre, this challenge will help you expand your horizons and experience new and exciting books.

I'm not sure how many books are required, she doesn't say in her sign-up post. So, I will commit to 12 books this year.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

POLICE - Naked in Death by J.D. Robb 1/3/10
ROMANCE - The Warrior by Sharon Sala 1/6/10
HISTORICAL - If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell 1/16/10
LAWYERS - Dead in the Water by Stuart Woods 1/23/10
DETECTIVE/SPY - "D" is for Deadbeat by Sue Grafton 4/10/10

Sunset Bay - Susan Mallery

2009-11-26T13:21:00.005-05:00

Title: Sunset Bay
Author: Susan Mallery
Publisher: Pocket
Published: 2009
Pages: 342
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Sunset Bay begins with Megan as a young girl of 18 caught up in a world with a doting father, hypochondriac mother, and estranged sister. She experiences her first love and devastating breakup. Always wanting to please her father, she gives up her dream of fashion design and becomes an accountant.

Fast forward 10 years and we see that Megan has the perfect life...handsome cardiologist fiance, the love and approval of her father, and a successful career. However, within a few weeks time, everything comes crashing down around her. And in the midst of all this turmoil, who shows up but her high school love - Travis. Amid the rubble of her life "lies the promise of a future Megan never realized - on that may turn out to contain everything she really needs."

Susan Mallery keeps her audience entertained throughout the entire book with twists and turns you never expect. The pages keep turning because you want to know how Megan will deal with the next crisis. The side stories are engaging and flow smoothly within the book.

You can read my full review here.

Rating: 3.5
Pages: 342
Completed: 11/25/09

Countdown 2010

2009-11-25T18:55:00.025-05:00

I really enjoyed working on this one in 08/09 and look forward to working on it again for 09/10.

The Countdown Challenge is being hosted by Michelle and runs from 09/09/09 to 10/10/10. The rules are simple...read the number of books first published in a given year that corresponds to the last digit of each year in the 2000s — 10 books from 2010, 9 books from 2009, 8 books from 2008, etc. until 2001. The total number of books required, therefore, is 55.

You don't need to make your list ahead of time...and it can change throughout the challenge. I am a little late signing up for this one...but I've kept a list of books that I have read, so I can go back through September and fill in those that count.

Here is my book list with links to my reviews:

2010
1. Coming Undone by Lauren Dane 2/15/10
2. Release by Beth Kery 2/21/10
3. Bound, Branded, & Brazen by Jaci Burton 3/13/10
4.
5.
6. Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts - 5/4/10
7.
8.
9.
10.

2009
1. Sunset Bay by Susan Mallery 11/25/09
2. Black Hills by Nora Roberts 12/1/09
3. The Warrior by Sharon Sala 1/6/10
4. If He's Wicked by Hannah Howell 1/16/10
5. Hard to Hold by Stephanie Tyler 1/28/10
6. Vision in White by Nora Roberts 2/26/10
7. Rewriting Monday by Jodi Thomas 3/8/10
8. Fragile by Shiloh Walker 3/25/10
9.

2008
1. Trial by Fire by Jo Davis 12/27/09
2. The House on Tradd Street by Karen White 1/19/10
3. Night's Master by Amanda Ashley 2/13/10
4. Zack: Armed and Dangerous by Cheyenne McCray 3/1/10
5. Hard to Handle by Lori Foster 3/1/10
6.
7.
8.

2007
1. Satisfaction Guaranteed by Lucy Monroe 1/29/10
2. Wild, Wicked, & Wanton by Jaci Burton 3/7/10
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

2006
1. Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris 12/19/09
2. Dear John by Nicholas Sparks 12/19/09
3.
4.
5.
6.

2005
1. Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris 12/4/09
2. Before Sunrise by Diana Palmer 1/8/10
3.
4.
5.

2004
1.
2.
3.
4.

2003
1.
2.
3.

2002
1.
2.

2001
1.

A~Z Challenge 2010

2009-11-24T13:49:00.019-05:00

I am going to be joining the A to Z Challenge again next year. It is being hosted by Becky again and here is the sign-up post.

I think I'll be able to complete the challenge next year because she is being very lenient on the hard to find letters. Here is what she says:

How strict is the 26 or 52? I know it isn't always easy to find those difficult letters. The thought of finding the X's (for example) might scare folks away. It shouldn't! I'm a merciful host! (Ask anyone!)

If you want to give the X's a go... For authors, try to find an X in the first name, middle name, or last name. For titles, it doesn't have to be the starting word. Try to find an X somewhere in a title, and it'd count in my book.

So don't let those letters scare you away - it is doable!!

There are 3 levels to choose from:

Authors -- Read alphabetically by author. Commit to 26 books.

Titles -- Read alphabetically by title. Commit to 26 books.

Authors & Titles -- Commit to reading 52 books

I like committing to 52 books and seeing if I can complete both titles and authors.

Here is my book list (it wall also be posted on my sidebar):

TITLES:

A -

B - Born in Fire - Nora Roberts 1/21/10
C - Coming Undone - Lauren Dane 2/15/10
D - Dead in the Water - Stuart Woods 1/23/10
E -
F- Fragile - Shiloh Walker 3/21/10

I - If He's Wicked - Hannah Howell 1/16/10

N - Naked in Death - J.D. Robb 1/3/10

S - Satisfaction Guaranteed - Lucy Monroe 1/29/10

V - Vision in White - Nora Roberts 2/26/10
W - The Warrior - Sharon Sala 1/6/10
Z - Zack: Armed and Dangerous - Cheyenne McCray 3/1/10

AUTHORS:

A - Ashley, Amanda - Night's Master 2/13/10
B - Burton, Jaci - Wild, Wicked & Wanton 3/7/10
C -
D - Delinsky, Barbara - The Carpenter's Lady 2/19/10
F - Foster, Lori - Hard to Handle 3/1/10

P - Palmer, Diana - Before Sunrise 1/8/10

S - Sandford, John - Shadow Prey 2/5/10

T - Tyler, Stephanie - Hard to Hold 1/28/10

W - White, Karen - The House on Tradd Street 1/19/10

Series Season IV 2010

2009-11-24T11:16:00.006-05:00

I have so many series started that I really need to join this challenge to get through some of them. This Series Season IV Challenge is being hosted by Kathrin over at Secret Dreamworld of a Bookaholic.

The rules are (taken from her post):

1) Pick a couple series you already started and now want to finish (meaning, you'll be all up to date with the series when it ends).

2) Read at least 4 books, more are also okay, of course!

3) Crossovers with other challenges are always okay.

4) Post your review of the books on your blog or in the comment section, no matter how long. If you post the review on your blog, please post a link to the review in the comment section so that everyone else can check out your review.

5) Have fun!

So there you have it...pull out those series that you've been wanting to finish and join in the challenge!!

Here are the series that I want to finish:

Debbie Macomber - Cedar Cove Series (6 books)
Charlaine Harris - Sookie Stackhouse (5 books)
Charlaine Harris - Harper Connelly (1 book)
Jayne Ann Krentz/Amanda Quick - Arcane Society (4 books)

Here are the books I read:

1). Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris 12/4/09 - Sookie Stackhouse #5
2). Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris 12/19/09 - Sookie Stackhouse #6
3). Night's Touch by Amanda Ashley 2/13/10 - Night Series #3
4).