Finished Monthly Challenges
January Monthly Challenge
1. 'J' is for January: Read a book that starts with 'J' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'J'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - APHRODITE:
APHRODITE was the goddess of fertility, love, and beauty. During the Trojan War, Aphrodite fought on the side of Paris. Aphrodite and her son Eros (Cupid) teamed up to cause Zeus to fall in love with a human named Europa.
Read a romance with an MC who is considered beautiful or handsome or read a book with a child as a feature of the storyline.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author - Lauren Blakely: Read one book written by Lauren Blakely or any author with her first or last name. Link to Lauren Blakely's backlist- https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Fun Facts about Lauren:
* Lauren Blakely lives in California
* Her novels are plotted out while walking her dogs
* She is a New York Times best selling author of contemporary romance
* Her latest release The V Card was co-authored with Lili Valente
You may also read:
* a book set in California, or by an author who is from California
* any book with a dog in the storyline or cover
* a book shelved as Contemporary Romance
* a book co-written with another author
4. National Hangover Day - January 1 ~ naturally following on from 31 Dec celebrations!!
Read a book where an MC has an addiction or gets drunk, or a book with a celebration in the storyline (eg wedding, 4th July, New Years etc)
5. Cuddle Up Day - January 6: Read a book with two people touching (arms, hands, anyway at all) on the cover or a book that will leave you 'happy with warm fuzzies'.
6. Male Watcher's Day - January 8: Read a book with a cover male model partially (or wholly) exposing his body or a book with a detective in the storyline or a mystery book.
7. Appreciate a Dragon Day - January 16: Read a PNR or Fantasy book, or a book with a character who could be termed 'a dragon' (intimidating, gets aggressive quickly, metaphorically breathes fire, etc)
8. Opposite Day - January 25: Read a book that is outside your normal reading range, a book with an Enemies to Lovers trope or a book with a cover that is mainly black and white.
9. National Cornchip Day - January 29: Read a book that you have been wanting to relax with (perhaps with a hot drink and bag of chips), or read a book with the colour yellow or blue on the cover.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
2. The Hired Man - Lynna Banning (HH #1352 - Nov 2017) (children) - Jan 9
3. Unwrapped - Katie Lane (Forever - Oct 2015) (dogs) - Jan 17
4. A Baby for the Sheriff - Mary Leo (HWR #1664 - Oct 2017) (Thanksgiving) - Jan 13
5. Power Play - Beverly Long (HRS #1977 - Jan 2018) (touching) - Jan 9
6. Ms. Calculation - Danica Winters (HI #1735 - Sept 2017) (mystery) - Jan 8
7. Autumn Flame - Lynne Hayworth (Zebra - Apr 2001) (short-tempered hero) - Jan 29
9. Now That It's You - Tawna Fenske (Montlake Romance - Oct 2016) (blue) - Jan 16
10. Lady Osbaldestone's Christmas Goose - Stephanie Laurens (Savdek Management Propriety - Oct 2017) - Jan 22
February Monthly Challenge
1. 'F' is for February: Read a book that starts with 'F' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'F'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - Apollo
Apollo was the son of Leto and Zeus. He was born on the island of Delos. He and his twin sister Artemis, also an Olympian, shared an aptitude for archery. The nine Muses were companions of his; they were goddesses known for inspiring art and music.
❃ Read a book featuring siblings – bonus points if there is a set of twins.
❃ Read a book that is listed as being inspirational or a character needs inspiration or encouragement to do something.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author -Elisabeth Naughton. Read one book written by Elisabeth Naughton or any author with her first or last name. Link to Elisabeth Naughton's backlist: Elisabeth Naughton – List of Books
Fun Facts about Elisabeth -
* Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal she taught middle school science.
* She writes paranormal romances or romantic suspense books and published her first book in 2008.
* She lives in western Oregon.
❃ You may also read a book set in Oregon, or by an author who is from Oregon. You can also read any book published in 2008, or is shelved as a paranormal or romantic suspense genre or a book that features a teacher or set in a school.
4. Shortest Month: February is the only month to have a length less than 30 days and is the only month that can pass with no full moon.
❃ Read a novella, an anthology or a book that has less than 150 pages.
❃ Read a book with a moon or nighttime scene on the cover.
5. Groundhog Day – 2 February: A groundhog predicts if there will be 6 more weeks of winter.
❃ Read a book set in winter or a book that has a weather element (sunshine, rain, snow etc.) on the cover.
❃ Read a historical/futuristic/non-contemporary genre or re-read an old favorite.
6. Super Bowl Sunday – 4 February: The NFL Championship game is set to be played in Minneapolis and is the most watched TV event of the year.
❃ Read a sports-themed book that features either athletes, sportscasters, sport reports or agents.
❃ Read a story where a character/s are a musician or involved in the entertainment or advertising industry.
7. Mardi Gras – 13 February: Nowhere on the planet is Fat Tuesday celebrated more than on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The day is celebrated with festivities and parades and of course much food and drink. While in New Orleans, a big tradition is in wearing Mardi Gras beads and giving them to others.
❃ Read a book set in New Orleans or has a celebration of some kind in the storyline.
❃ Read a book with a colorful cover (3 or more colors) or has a beads/mask on the cover.
8. Valentines Day – 14 February: A day that represents romantic love and the expression of love or gratitude.
❃ Read a romance book or a book that has a predominantly Valentine theme either in the title or on the cover (hearts, flowers, cupid, love, kiss).
9. Chinese New Year – 16 February – Year of the Dog: Celebrated as the start of the New Year in Chinese communities. The Dog is the eleventh animal in the Chinese zodiac and is a symbol of loyalty and honesty.
❃ Read a book where a character/s have a new beginning or a second chance.
❃ Read a book that is number eleven in a series or features a pet of some kind (bonus points if it’s a dog and double bonus points if it’s a puppy!).
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
2. A Baby for Christmas - Marie Ferrarella (HWR #1669 - Dec 2017) (siblings) - Feb 4
3. Amish Christmas Abduction - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #649 - Dec 2017) (romantic suspense) - Feb 13
4. Devil May Care - Melanie George (Zebra - Feb 2001) (nighttime scene) - Feb 5
5. The Seduction of His Wife - Janet Chapman (Pocket - July 2006) (winter) - Feb 10
6. Jude's Law - Lori Foster (Zebra - Feb 2006/Oct 2016) - Feb 1
6. Jude's Law - Lori Foster (Zebra - Feb 2006/Oct 2016) - Feb 1
7. No One But You - Brenda Novak (Mira - June 2017) (colorful cover) - Feb 14
9. Mint Juleps and Justice - Nancy Naigle (Montlake - Feb 2014) (dog and puppy) - Feb 8
March Monthly Challenge
1. 'M' is for March:
☘ Read a book that starts with 'M' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'M'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - Ares: He was the son of Zeus and Hera, both of whom hated him (according to Homer). Eros (more commonly known as Cupid) was the child of Ares and Aphrodite. Ares was most notably referred to as the God of War; he represented the unpleasant aspects of battle.
☘ Read a book featuring a ‘son’ who interacts with a family member in the storyline OR a war participant/hero character OR the letters S-O-N included in the title…any order is fine.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author-Cindy Gerard:
☘ Read one book written by Cindy Gerard or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Cindy-
* Cindy is a trainer for the Iowa Department of Human Services
* She’s married to a cowboy named Tom
* She collects pink depression glass
* She writes Romantic Suspense
* Bestseller lists include numerous RT nominations and awards for Take No Prisoners and Taming the Outlaw, the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, National Reader's Choice Award and two RITA nominations.
☘ OR you may also read a book set in Iowa, a book with a ‘pink’ cover or book labeled Romantic-Suspense
4. Oscars Night-March 4: Oscar is getting old…this year celebrates 90 years.
☘ Read a book that’s been made or scheduled to be a movie (made for tv is fine too) OR read a book with a '9' or '0' in the page count.
5. National Girl Scout Day-March 12: Recognizes and celebrates the creation of the first Girl Scout group. In 1912 Juliette Gordon Low started the first group in Savannah Georgia with 18 girls.
☘ Read a book set in ‘the South’ OR a book with a ‘low’ page count—less than 150 pgs
6. Freedom of Information Day-March 16: Celebrates an important concept in American rights. 3/16 is the birthdate of James Madison who is known as the “Father of the Constitution” and one of the authors of the “Bill of Rights”
☘ Read a book with an author or MC with the initial 'J' or 'M' OR read a book that involves a father, writer or ‘freedom’ in any form.
7. Saint Patrick’s Day-March 17: In honor or the Patron Saint of Ireland who brought Christianity to the Emerald Isles--a day of celebrating Irish History, traditions and customs. The first parade to honor this day was in NewYork City in 1762. (http://www.history.com/this-day-in-hi...)
☘ Read a book that takes place in Ireland, has an Irish character or a book with a cover that has green on it.
8. Spring Vernal Equinox-March 20: If you live on the Equator this is the day when there is exactly 12 hours of daylight/nighttime. Welcome Spring!
☘ Read a book that shows blooming flowers or a bright sun on the cover OR with the word ‘spring’ in the title, or a book (according to your definition) puts ‘some spring into your step’!
9. Near Miss Day-March 23: On this day in 1989, an asteroid the size of a mountain, came within 500,000 miles of Earth…in interstellar terms…this is a ‘near miss.’ In honor of this day
☘ Read a book with PNR/Horror/Thriller Genre or a book with more than 5,000 ratings.
10. Reader's Choice:
☘ Read any book of your choice.
3. Missing in Blue Mesa - Cindi Myers (HI #1765 - Feb 2018) (romantic suspense) - Mar 8
5. A Forever Thing - Carolyn Brown (Montlake - Oct 2012) (Texas) - Mar 11
8. The Promise He Made Her - Tara Taylor Quinn (HS #2041 - July 2016) (bright sun) - Mar 6
9.
April Monthly Challenge
1. 'A' is for April: READ a book that starts with 'A' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'A'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - ARTEMIS: Artemis was daughter of Zeus and Leto and twin sister of Apollo. She was primarily a virgin huntress, goddess of wildlife and patroness of hunters. She was an important goddess in the lives of women, especially when it came to marriage and young creatures.
READ a book with siblings in the story OR where someone goes hunting OR where there is a married couple OR a goddess in the story.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author - Joan Johnston: READ one book written by Joan Johnston or any author with her first or last name. Link to Joan Johnston's backlist: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Fun Facts about Joan -
- Joan is a top five New York Times bestselling author of 57 novels and novellas
- She is a former attorney, newspaper editor and drama critic and director as well as a professor of drama.
- She loves to travel for research for her novels and has been to England, Scotland, Tahiti, Australia, Bali and not to forget, Texas.
- She lives in Colorado.
READ a book:
- with a 5 and 7 in the page count or 5 and 7 in the publish date
- with a character who is an actor, professor or attorney or a book where drama/acting/theater is featured
- that involves travel or some kind of research
- whose author initial is C
4. April is International Guitar Month: IGM was created in 1987 as an annual celebration of guitars and guitar products to help retailers create interest in the guitar industry. Every April, guitarists and music aficionados from around the world gather physically, virtually and mentally to recognize both the instruments and the talented musicians who bring them to life
READ a book with a musical instrument on the cover OR has a musician character OR has the letters IGM in the title (any order) OR has 19 or 87 in the page count.
5. April 1 is April's Fools Day: An annual celebration in some European and Western countries commemorated by playing practical jokes and spreading hoaxes. The jokes and their victims are called April fools. People playing April Fool jokes expose their prank by shouting "April fool!"
READ a book that has a silly/goofy/prankster character OR has a word with double letters in the title (like Fool) OR was published in April of any year.
6. April 1 is also Easter Sunday: While considered the most important Christian holiday for many, it also has origins in the pagan world. In fact, some say the very word "Easter" comes from the Saxon pagan festival honoring the goddess "Eastre" (also called Oestre). The goddess Eastre's symbol is the rabbit. So that's where the Easter Bunny came from!
READ a book that has a small animal on the cover OR celebrates a holiday in the story OR has all the letters of Easter in the title and/or author's name (any order).
7. April 3 is Tweed Day: Celebrates the warm, fashionable woolen clothing that originated in Scotland most often with a chevron type pattern. The word Tweed originally came from 'tweel', the Scottish word for twill and after being misinterpreted by an Englishman, morphed into 'tweed'. Seemingly always in fashion, tweed keeps you warm and looks good, too.
READ a book that has someone wearing a suit on the cover or something warm like a coat, mittens, etc. OR has a pattern on the cover like stripes, chevrons, polka dots, etc OR read a book set in Scotland or England (or anywhere in the UK).
8. April 7 is World Health Day: Sponsored by United Nation's World Health Organization (WHO), World Health Day focuses on a different health theme each year. It is an international event to emphasize and work on important health issues or problems with activities on that focus on, awareness, education programs, and fundraising activities to help with the health issue for the year.
READ a book where someone's health is an issue OR with a character that is a healthcare worker OR has the letters WHO in the title or author's name (any order).
9. April 28 is International Astronomy Day: Established in 1973 to promote astronomy to the general public. Astronomy clubs and groups use this day to help teach the people about the stars, and other celestial bodies in the universe.
READ a book with a celestial body on the cover OR a with a character who is a scientist (any kind) OR tagged as science fiction/sci-fi OR has clubs or groups as part of the story.
10. Reader's Choice: READ any book of your choice.
2. Soldier, Handyman, Family Man - Lynne Marshall (HSE #2616 - Apr 2018) (siblings) - Apr 8
4. The Nanny's Double Trouble - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2617- May 2018) (musician mother) - Apr 17
5. Wanted: Texas Daddy - Cathy Gillen Thacker (HWR #1645 - June 2017) (double letters) - Apr 10
6. In the Bodyguard's Arms - Lisa Childs (HRS #1976 - Jan 2018) (Easter in title) - Apr 30
7. To Scotland with Love - Patience Griffin (Signet - June 2014) (Scotland) - Apr 19
8.
9. The Debutante's Daring Proposal - Annie Burrows (HH #1332 - June 2017) (scientist) - Apr 12
May Monthly Challenge
1. 'M' is for May: READ a book that starts with 'M' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'M'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - ATHENA: Athena was the Goddess of War, the female counterpart of Ares. She is one of three virgin goddesses; the other two were Hestia and Artemis. Athena served as a guardian of Athens, where the Parthenon served as her temple.
READ a book with a parent/guardian character OR a book that is part of a trilogy OR a goddess in the story.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author – Ilona Andrews: Read one book written by Ilona Andrews or any author with her first or last name. Link to Ilona Andrew’s backlist- https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Fun Facts about Ilona Andrews -
* ‘Ilona Andrews’ is a pseudonym for the husband-and-wife writing team, Ilona and Gordon.
* Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the US Army.
* This dynamic duo writes bestselling urban and romantic fantasy.
* Ilona and Gordon live in Texas with two kids, three dogs and a cat.
You may also READ a book by an author who is from Texas. You can also read any book shelved as Fantasy, or a book with an animal or child on the cover. Or you may read a book with a team in the story.
4. May 1st is International Worker’s Day: Also known as Labour Day or Workers’ Day in some countries, and often referred to as May Day, is the celebration of labourers and the working classes that is promoted by the international labour movement which occurs every year on May Day (1 May), an ancient European spring festival.
READ a book with a ‘Springy’ cover OR the main character is of the working class OR has a 5 and 1 in the page count.
5. May is National Barbeque Month in the USA: “Barbeque” originally referred to pork cooked over a high smoke fuel source like wood or charcoal. The term has now come to include other meats and foods and refers to more to the cooking method rather than the specific dish. The method is commonly believed to have originated from aboriginal peoples in the Caribbean and Florida, where the word “barbeque” first entered the English language as “barbacoa”, which translated as “sacred fire pit.”
READ a book that has a chef/baker/cook character OR is set in the Southern United States (where BBQ is king!) OR features a hunk of ‘beef’(naked person) or fire on the cover.
6. May 4th is Star Wars Day (May the Fourth be with you!): Celebrated and observed by fans of George Lucas’ epic Star Wars franchise. The date was chosen for the pun on the catchphrase “May the Force be with you”. Some fans also recognize the next day, May 5th as ‘Revenge of the Fifth”, a play on “Star Wars Episode III – Revenge of the Sith,” which celebrates the Sith Lords and other villainous characters from the franchise.
READ a book that has a star on the cover or in the title OR features opposing groups of heroes and villains in the story (like the Jedi and Sith) OR has all the letters of STAR WARS in the title and author's name (any order and yes ‘S’, ‘R’ and ‘A’ must be counted twice).
7. May 8th is World Red Cross Day: The Red Cross provides humanitarian efforts and disaster relief around the world, wherever it is needed. May 8th remembers and recognizes the efforts of the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies worldwide. Worldwide efforts to advocate for the relief of human suffering, whether from disease, famine, disaster or war. In America on May 8th, the American Red Cross puts special focus on US programs that keep children healthy and safe around the globe.
READ a book with RED or a CROSS on the cover OR has a character who is a doctor/nurse/volunteer OR is tagged as a YA.
8. May 13th is Mother’s Day: The first Mother’s Day in the US was on May 10th, 1908 in Philadelphia. Everybody has a mother and absolutely no one is more special than mom. Sure, dad is really important. And, grandparent's too. But moms, well they are just the greatest. Often taken for granted, they are always our strongest supporter. You can't do wrong in Mom's eyes.
READ a book with a prominent ‘mom’ character (good or bad) OR with flowers on the cover OR the numbers ‘1908’ in the page count and publication date (any order, can be combined).
9. May 22nd is World Goth Day: Originated in the United Kingdom in 2009, World Goth Day has quickly spread and is now celebrated in many countries around the world. Goth is not just about wearing black clothing. It’s a whole culture!
READ a book with a ‘goth’ or a ‘bad boy/girl’ character OR with music or fashion in the storyline OR an author born in the UK.
10. Reader's Choice: READ any book of your choice.
4. An Innocent Maid for the Duke - Ann Lethbridge (HH #139 - Oct 2017) (working class/maid) - May 31
5. Baby, I'm Yours - Stephanie Bond (HQN - May 2011) (South) - May 5
7. The Scotsman Who Saved Me - Hannah Howell (Kensington - Oct 2017)(red) - May 12
8. The Maverick's Bridal Bargain - Christie Jeffries (HSE #2625 - June 2018) (mom character dead but an important part of story) - May 31
June Monthly Challenge
1. 'J' is for June: Read a book that starts with 'J' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'J'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - DEMETER: Demeter was the daughter of Cronos and Rhea. She was the goddess of harvest and fertility. Only women attended the Thesmophoria, a fertility festival held in honor of Demeter.
-Read a book that takes place on a farm or ranch OR one that involves a pregnancy OR involves an abduction (Demeter’s daughter was kidnapped).
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author-Celeste Bradley. Read one book written by Celeste Bradley or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Celeste-
* She lives in Tennessee
* She has lived in 8 states in over twenty homes
* She writes Historical Romance
* Celeste won a RITA award for The Pretender
You may also read a book set in Tennessee, or by an author who is from Tennessee. You can read a book which involves a move or a book by any author who has won a RITA award.
4. June is National Adopt-a-Cat Month: It was created to encourage people to adopt a cat or to celebrate with a cat you’ve already adopted.
-Read a book with a cat or an adopted pet in the story or on the cover OR read a book with a shifter.
5. June 2 is National Leave the Office Early Day (celebrated on the 1st this year): On this day you are encouraged to leave work early (after getting permission from your boss) and go out and do something fun.
-Read a book featuring a workplace romance OR a vacation OR that takes place someplace fun (a beach, amusement park, etc.).
6. Flag Day: falls on June 14 in the United States. It celebrates the flag, but in recent years it has also marked other topics and issues including gay and lesbian pride.
-Read a book with a flag on the cover OR the colors of your country’s flag OR read a book featuring a same sex couple.
7. June 17 is Father’s Day: Father’s day is celebrated around the world to honor the contributions of fathers and father figures in the lives of their children.
-Read a book with a single father MC OR a book with a strong parental relationship OR a book with 1 and 7 in the page count OR one with a child on the cover.
8. Juneteenth - June 19th: it celebrates the end of legal slavery in the United States, marking the day that Union troops landed in Galveston, Texas announcing the end of the war and the emancipation of the slaves.
-Read a book with an African American character OR a book set in Texas OR one that takes place during the Civil War.
9. June 21 - summer solstice (in the Northern Hemisphere): The summer solstice marks the longest day in the year, it has been celebrated in different ways throughout history, for example in Ancient Greece it marked the beginning of the year. Stonehenge may have been built to mark astrological events, including the summer solstice. Others worried that it would bring bad luck and wore a talisman to ward off evil on that day.
-Read a PNR OR a historical romance OR read a book set in England OR with sunlight on the cover OR that takes place during the summer.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
2. A Secret Consequence for the Viscount - Sophia James (HH #1356 - Dec 2017) (abduction) - June 6
3. The Designs of Lord Randolph Cavanaugh - Stephanie Laurens (Mira - Apr 2018) (RITA) - June 21
4. Close Contact - Lori Foster (HQN - Dec 2017) (cats) - June 4
5. Your Mouth Drives Me Crazy - HelenKay Dimon (Brava - July 2007) (Hawaii) - June 13
6. Finding Our Forever - Brenda Novak (SSE #2539 - Apr 2017) (colors - red/white/blue) - June 27
7. Fast Burn - Lori Foster (HQN - Mar 2018) (parental relationship) - June 15
8. When You Love a Scotsman - Hannah Howell (Zebra - Jan 2018) (Civil War) - June 17
9. The Blue Sword - Robin McKinley (Greenwillow Books - 1982) (paranormal/sun) - June 6
July Monthly Challenge
1. 'J' is for July: Read a book that starts with 'J' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'J'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - DIONYSUS: Dionysus was primarily known as the God of the Vine. Upon reaching adulthood, Dionysus wandered the Earth, teaching men the culture of the vine. Dionysus was the last god to enter Olympus.
♥ Read a book that is somehow related to the wine industry (vineyard owner/worker, bar or restaurant owner, caterer, etc.) or agriculture, or a book that is the last (or most current) in a series.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author - Sawyer Bennett: Read one book written by Sawyer Bennett or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Sawyer Bennett:
♥ Sawyer lives in North Carolina
♥ She published her first novel in 2013
♥ She writes Contemporary Romance, from NA to erotic
♥ She is a former trial attorney
♥ Sawyer also writes general and women’s fiction under the pen name S. Bennett and sweet romance under the name Juliette Poe.
You may also read a book set in North Carolina, or by an author who is from North Carolina. You can also read any book published in 2013, or shelved as Contemporary Romance, or a book written as Juliette Poe or S. Bennett, or a book with a MC who is an attorney.
4. 2nd Week in July - Nude Recreation Week: Read a book with a nude or mostly nude person on the cover, or a book with sports or some other form of recreation as a part of the storyline.
5. July 1 - International Joke Day: Read a humorous book or a book that has someone laughing or smiling on the cover.
6. July 14 - Shark Awareness Day: Read a book that includes some sort of threat from nature, or a book set on or near the water or with water on the cover.
7. July 16 - Global Hug Your Kids Day: Read a book that is shelved as YA or has a child in the storyline, or a book with people hugging or kissing on the cover.
8. July 22 - Hammock Day: Read a book that would be perfect for kicking back and spending the day in a hammock in the shade!
9. July 30 - International Day of Friendship: Read a book with best friends in the storyline, or one that was recommended to you by a friend.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
1. Daddy Defender - Janie Crouch (HI #1745 - Nov 2017) - July 3
2. Home to Honeymoon Harbor - JoAnn Ross (HQN - Apr 2018) (tree farms) - July 9
4. Lone Star Father - Marin Thomas (HWR #1695 - June 2018) (rodeo) - July 12
5. Cowboy Heartbreaker - Delores Fossen (HQN - Mar 2018) - July 23
6. Captain Rose's Redemption - Georgie Lee (HH #1379 - June 2018) - July 2
7. Diaryof a War Bride – Lauri Robinson (HH #1386 – July 2018) - July 21
8. Desperately Seeking Fireman - Jennifer Bernard (Avon - Jan 2014) - July 11
9. Lone Star Blues - Delores Fossen (HQN - Apr 2018) (recommended) - July 23
10. In the Lawman's Protection - Janie Crouch (HI #1806 - Sept 2018) - July 10
August Monthly Challenge
1. 'A' is for August: Read a book that starts with 'A' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'A'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - HERA: Hera was Queen of the Olympian gods. In the story of the Quest of the Golden Fleece, Hera was a gracious protector of the heroes. Hera had few, if any, redeeming qualities. She never forgot an injury.
★ Read a book that has royalty, a jealous or vengeful character or one where a woman protects her man.
3. Featured Author Challenge - Alexandra Ivy: Read a book by this month's Featured Author, Alexandra Ivy, or by any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Alexandra:
★ Alexandra grew up in the midwest with a love for reading, she was more interested in being an actress on Broadway than being a writer though.
★ She published her first novel in 2000.
★ She primarily writes Romantic Suspense, Paranormal and Erotic Romance. She also writes Historical Romance under the names Deborah Raleigh and Debbie Raleigh.
★ She is a five time RT Book Award Finalist.
★ Alexandra lives in Missouri with her husband and sons.
So you may also read any book set in Missouri. You can also read any book published in 2000, or that is shelved as Paranormal or Romantic Suspense. Or you can read a book by her pseudonyms.
4. August is Admit You're Happy Month: Read a book that leaves a smile on your face.
5. National Girlfriends Day - August 1: Read a book that features girlfriends as part of the story.
6. International Beer Day - August 3: Read a book with characters who drink beer. Or read a book set in a bar, a book with scenes in a bar or a book featuring blue collar workers.
7. Son and Daughter Day - August 11: Read a book tagged as YA, NA or a children's book. Or read a book with a child or children in the story.
8. National Honey Bee Awareness Day - August 18: Because we all need to be aware of honey bees! Read a book where nature is part of the story or one with flowers on the cover.
9. Women's Equality Day - August 26: Read a book with a strong female character.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choosing!
6. Sweet Home Cowboy - Marin Thomas (Tule - June 2017) (scenes in a bar) - Aug 8
8. Second Chance Girl - Susan Mallery (HQN - Oct 2017) (animal preserve) - Aug 2
September Monthly Challenge
1. 'S' is for September: Read a book that starts with 'S' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'S'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - HERMES: Hermes was considered a “trickster” due to his cunning and clever personality. He primarily served as the herald or messenger of the gods. Hermes was born in a cave on a mountain in Arcadia; he was conceived and born within the course of one day.
♦ Read a book with a character who has wings (either on the cover or in the book) -OR-
♦ Read a book with a scarf on the cover
♦ Read a humorous book, a comedy or one that makes you laugh
♦ Read a stand-alone book or the 1st book in a series.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Loretta Chase: Read one book written by this month’s featured author, Loretta Chase or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Loretta-
♥ Loretta Chase is of Albanian ancestry, but grew up in New England
♥ She received her English degree from Clark University
♥ She writes Historical Romances and has been publishing since 1987
♥ Loretta won many awards, including a Romance Writers of America RITA
♦ So, you may also read a book set in New England, or by an author who is from New England.
♦ You can also read any book originally published in 1987, or is shelved as Historical Romance or a book by any author who has won a RITA award.
4. September is Hispanic Heritage Month! Hispanic Heritage Month actually crosses between September 15th and October 15th and gets its roots back in 1968. It begins on the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize also celebrate their independence days during this period.
♦ Read a book set in one of the above Spanish-speaking countries or with a character who is from one of these countries.
♦ Read a book with a character who speaks any other language.
♦ Read a book with a mostly green cover (for National Guacamole day, 9/16!)
5. National Skyscraper Day – September 3rd: Skyscrapers are truly engineering and architectural marvels. With so many crowded cities, space is limited and real estate prices are ever increasing, so building ‘up’ becomes more and more logical. The tallest skyscraper in the world is the Burj Khalifa in Dubai at 2,717 feet.
♦ Read a book with a building or buildings on the cover
♦ Read a book with a wealthy character
♦ Read a book with a number in the title (series numbers don’t count!)
♦ Read a book with a cover that is mostly silver or grey
6. National Read a Book Day – September 6th: Um this one’s a given! Take time out of your busy life and relax with a good book. It doesn’t matter where you read that book, as long as you can do so in comfort! And if you doze off along the way, we won’t tell anyone!
♦ Read a book with a character who is a librarian, loves to read or is a writer
♦ Read a book with a book or books on the cover
♦ Read a book just because!
7. National Stay Away from Seattle Day – September 16th: This was just too coincidental to pass up. Stay away from my hometown day on my birthdate? You might be surprised to learn that this admittedly-weird holiday is actually a very pro-Seattle day. This holiday, jokingly invented by comedian Tom Roy who had never even been to Seattle, was designed to give the city a little breather from all the people rushing to stay there. Odd for the touristy city that loves to share their secrets and economy with visitors!
♦ Read a book set in the Pacific Northwest – bonus back-pat if it’s in Seattle!
♦ Read a book where the character is a musician or with a guitar on the cover
♦ Read a book with rain or water on the cover
♦ Read a book that includes travel or a vacation.
8. Oktoberfest Begins – September 21st: Oktoberfest is a two-week festival, held in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. While it is a giant world festival in Germany, Oktoberfest celebrations are held around the world during this time. It’s not just a celebration of beer. It is a huge festival with lots of food, music, dancing, rides and carnival booths. The very first Oktoberfest was held on October 12, 1810 and commemorated the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese. The marriage was celebrated annually and came to be known as Oktoberfest. The festivals were eventually moved to mid-September as the weather was better in earlier Fall.
♦ Read a book with a mug, cup or stein on the cover
♦ Read a book with royalty in the story (either as MCs or a character in the story)
♦ Read a book with a character who works with drinks (or food!)
♦ Read set in Europe, bonus back-pat if it’s Germany!
9. Hobbit Day – September 22nd: It’s the birthday of Frodo and Bilbo Baggins, two of the main hobbit characters from Lord of the Rings. Hobbits are little guys, but they’re the heroes in the LOTR movies and books, performing great acts of heroism and courage. Notably, Hobbits go around barefoot and eat seven meals a day. They also like to dance, have parties and enjoy fireworks.
♦ Read a book with bare feet or a bare foot on the cover
♦ Read a book with a celebration or a party in the story.
♦ Read a book tagged fantasy or Sci-Fi
♦ Read a book told from the hero’s point of view.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
2. Kiss That Cowboy/How the Sheriff Was Won - Gayle Kaye, Anne Gracie (Harl Duets #60 - Sept 2001) (funny book) - Sept 9
4. The Devil's Due - Melanie George (Zebra - Nov 2001) (Portuguese) - Sept 26
6. From Enemy's Daughter to Expectant Bride - Olivia Gates (HD #2337 - Nov 2014) (just because) - Sept 29
8. No Kissing Under the Boardwalk - Kate Angell (Kensington - Sept 2018) (pizza place) - Sept 7
October Monthly Challenge
Goodreads
1. 'O' is for October:
☀️ Read a book that starts with 'O' or a book whose author's first or last name starts with 'O'.
2. OLYMPIAN GODS AND GODDESSES-HESTIA: Although Hestia appeared in a few stories, she was not overly significant in Greek mythology. She was a sibling to Demeter, Hades, Poseidon, Hera, and Zeus. Hestia is completely omitted from the works of Homer, author of the Iliad and the Odyssey
👩 Read a book that features siblings OR one where the MC is shy or diminished in some way in the story
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author- Vivian Arend:
🌴 Read a book written by Vivian Arend or any author with her first or last name.
Link to Vivian’s backlist
Fun Facts about Vivian
* Vivian Arend is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over 50 contemporary and paranormal romance books
* Her books can be read as standalones and have no cliffhangers.
* She lives in B.C. Canada with her husband of many years and a fluffy attack Shih-tzu named Luna
* Outdoor experiences figure prominently in her work partly because she’s traveled extensively with family – to places with and without running water
🌴 OR you may also read a book that’s a standalone read, set in Canada or has water (any form) on the cover.
4. Breast Cancer Awareness Month: is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.
🎀 Read a book that includes any character who suffers in some way OR where the MC ‘prevents’ something from happening OR a book with pink on the cover.
5. Mad Hatter Day-October 6: The Mad Hatter is a fictional cartoon character depicted in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland…he’s always acting silly. Mad Hatter Day was the brainstorm of a group of computer people in Boulder, Co. It dates back to 1986. It is a great day to be silly and celebrate silliness
😊 Read a fun/funny book OR a book set in Colorado OR a any book that makes you smile.
6. Old Farmers’ Day-October 12: honors the hard labor of farmers throughout American history.
🌻 Read a book where a farm or ranch is featured OR a book with a cover showing a farm/ranch or outdoor scene.
7. Bosses Day-October 16: It’s said to be originated by State Farm Insurance Company and is a day set aside give your boss the appreciation that he or she truly deserves.
👍 Read a book where any character is a boss--good or bad OR a book at features a workplace of any kind.
8. Frankenstein Friday-October 26: This day celebrates the birth of Frankenstein and its creator. Frankenstein is one of the best known horror characters, dating back to the 1800's.
💀 Read any book that has a scarey/horror twist to it (paranormal is fine) OR read a book that has at least 1800 ratings.
9. Halloween-October 31: One of the funnest days of the year where many dress up in crazy costumes, children exchange jokes and talents for candy, and jack o lanterns adorn porches.
🎃 Read a book where the cover depicts someone in a costume (your interpretation is fine) OR one that has any holiday that takes place during the story OR has the number 3 or 1 in the page count.
10. Reader's Choice:
🎁 Read any book of your choice.
3. Make Me Love You - Johanna Lindsey (Pocket - Jan 2017) (stand alone) - Oct 3
5. One Hot Summer - Melissa Cutler (St. Martins - Apr 2016) (funny) - Oct 7
6. One More Taste - Melissa Cutler (St. Martins - Oct 2016) (outdoor scene) - Oct 9
7. Gunfire on the Ranch - Delores Fossen (HI #1755 - Jan 2018) (sheriff's office) - Oct 15
8. SEAL of Honor - Tonya Burrows (Entangled - June 2013) (2487 ratings) - Oct 1
9. A Night of Secret Surrender - Sophia James (HHS #476 - May 2018) (disguises) - Oct 12
10. Will's True Wish - Grace Burrowes (Sourcebooks Casablanca - Feb 2016) - Oct 14
November Monthly Challenge
1. 'N' is for November: READ a book that starts with 'N' or whose author's first or last name starts with 'N'.
2. Olympian Gods and Goddesses - POSEIDON: Poseidon was allotted his dominion after the fall of the Titans. He wielded the trident or three-pronged spear, and this image of him is reflected in art. Poseidon was most notably the God of the sea and the protector of all waters.
READ a book with a body of water on the cover or is set near a body of water OR has something sharp on the cover OR is third in a series OR has SPEAR in the text
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author - Julia London: READ one book written by Julia London or any author with her first or last name. Link to Julia London's backlist: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/49377.Julia_London
Fun Facts about Julia:
- Julia has received the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and is a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction.
- Julia grew up in Austin, TX
- Before turning to writing full time, she had a career as a public administrator working for the Federal Government, including a stint in the White House, and eventually back home in Texas.
READ a book with a T or X in the title OR with a character who works in politics or has a government job OR is a Historical or Historical Romance book.
4. Aviation History Month: Aviation History Month is an annual designation observed in November and is dedicated to exploring, recognizing and celebrating America’s great contributions and achievements in the development of aviation.
READ a book with an airplane or any air transportation on the cover OR that has a mostly sky scene on the cover OR where a character takes a flight OR has a pilot character OR has word AIRPLANE in the text.
5. Native American Heritage Month: What started at the turn of the century as an effort to gain a day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the U.S., has resulted in a whole month being designated for that purpose.
READ a book that has any character that is Native American or is of a minority ethnicity OR is set "at the turn of the century" or anytime before WWI OR where heritage is important to the story OR has NATIVE in the text.
6. November 1 is World Vegan Day: A day to commemorate and advocate for the vegan lifestyle. According to many prominent vegans, the vegan lifestyle offers a wide range of benefits for human health, protects the well-being of animals and helps protect the environment.
READ a book that has a title or author name that starts with V OR has a character that doesn't eat meat OR has a character who is concerned about being healthy OR has a pretty environment scene on the cover.
7. November 15 is Clean Your Refrigerator Day: What's that in the back of the refrigerator!? I don't want to find out. Don't open it...... the odor may overwhelm you!!! Hold your breath, scrunch your nose if you must, and get to the task. Common speculation is that this day was created just in advance of Thanksgiving, to allow room for holiday leftovers. Hmmm...
READ a book where someone uses a refrigerator OR where the characters have to take care of a nasty problem or something smells bad OR a holiday book OR a book with something large on the cover.
8. November 23 is National Espresso Day: I can't resist anything having to do with coffee! The Espresso Machine was first invented in Italy by Luigi Bezzera in 1901. Luigi's goal, was decrease the time of his employee's coffee breaks, and subsequently increase productivity. His espresso machine accomplished this goal, and went beyond, creating a thick, bold, coffee that has become very popular.
READ a book with a drink on the cover or where someone has a cup of joe OR set in Italy or with an Italian character OR has a word with double letters in the title or author name (like Espresso or Bezzera).
9. November 28 is Red Planet Day: The planet Mars is referred to as the "Red Planet" because it appears red in color. Red Planet Day honors our celestial neighbor, the fourth planet in the solar system. Red Planet Day commemorates the launch of the Spacecraft Mariner 4 on November 28,1964 which brushed by Mars within a mere 6,118 miles.
READ a book with a celestial body on the cover OR tagged as science fiction/sci-fi OR has a mostly red cover OR has a 6, 1 or 8 in the page count.
10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
2. That Chesapeake Summer - Mariah Stewart (Pocket - June 2015) (Chesapeake Bay) - Nov 11
5. The Forgotten Daughter - Lauri Robinson (HH #1254 - Oct 2015) (1925) - Nov 10
7. Same Time, Next Christmas - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2660 - Dec 2018) (holiday) - Nov 2
9. This Time Around - Tawna Fenske (Montlake - Apr 2017) (298 pages) - Nov 16
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