Darlene's Book Nook: 2016 Reading Challenges

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)

Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier (Lucy Stone, Book #1)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Evie at Bookish Lifestyle. I need to tackle my TBR pile! I am aiming for:

Finish 1-10 books from my TBR pile: A Firm Handshake

Little Black Dress by James Patterson with Emily Raymond

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)

Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier (Lucy Stone, Book #1)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Gilion at Rose City Reader. I am going to set the bar low, LOL! I am aiming for:

ONE STAR (PENSIONE WEEKENDER): Read just one qualifying book.

UNITED KINGDOM: Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #7)
SPAIN: The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa
POLAND: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
GERMANY: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being co-hosted by Anna at Herding Cats & Burning Soup and Kristin at Addicted to Happily Ever After. I have tons of review copies that still need to be read, but I also don't want my very little free time to be spent reading only books for review. I think that's why a lot of book bloggers suffer from burn-out! I need a balance of reading books just for my pleasure, too. There are no set levels for this challenge, so I am aiming for:

Read three books from my review pile

The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa

The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

2016 Chubby Chunkster Challenge

This challenge is being hosted by Romance Readers Reading Challenges over on Goodreads. This challenge is for those books that are over 450 pages. My goal is:

Do These Books Make my Butt Look Big? - This option is for the slightly heavier reader who wants to commit to 5 Chunksters over the remainder of the year.

Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11)

Reached by Ally Condie (Matched, Book #3)

The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)

The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13)

The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14)

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Peek a Book. The challenge level that I am aiming for is:

Level 2: GIRLS POWER - read 6 to 15 books written by a woman author

Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)

The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers by L.J. Sattgast

The Christmas Angel Project by Melody Carlson

After the Woods by Kim Savage

A December Bride by Denise Hunter (A Year of Weddings 1, Book #1)

The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (Greer Family, Book #1)

Something Borrowed, Someone Dead by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #24)

Dashing Through the Snow by Debbie Macomber

Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier (Lucy Stone, Book #1)

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Jana at That Artsy Reader Girl. I often do not reach for books by debut authors. While I might add a book to my Wishlist, I tend to "wait and see" if other readers have enjoyed it before I run out and buy it. There is no set challenge level, so my goal is:

Read 1 middle grade/young adult/new adult debut in 2016

After the Woods by Kim Savage

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Jackie at Literary Escapism. There are no set levels for this challenge. I often get caught up in reading lots of series, so I forget to branch out and try someone new! This is my goal:

5 new authors to discover in 2016

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Jen at The Introverted Reader. I love audiobooks! If it wasn't for audiobooks, I don't think that I would have the time to read! I do not have sit-down quiet time to read a book, at least not right now. I like to read/listen to books in a series back-to-back, and the narrators are usually the same throughout a series. This challenge will help me to branch out a bit, so I am aiming for:

Eavesdropper--Read 1-2 books read by narrators who are new to you

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Anna at Herding Cats & Burning Soup. There are tons of new authors and series on my TBR pile, so I am aiming for:

Level 1 (Sunbathing): 6 books

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Lisa at Lisa Loves Literature. I have tons of new series on my TBR pile that I want to try! I am aiming for:

Mercury: 1-2 new series

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being co-hosted by Sandy at Somewhere Only We Know and Holly at Words Fueled by Love. It fits in perfectly with my goal to finish off those series that I started long ago and have never finished! I am aiming for:

Level 1: Finish 1 – 5 series

Reached by Ally Condie (Matched, Book #3)

Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3)

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Sophia Rose at Delighted Reader. I need to get caught up in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, so this one is perfect for me! I am aiming for:

Level One – 5-9 books – Surviving the Book Tsunami

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11)

The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)

The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13)

The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being co-hosted by Jessi at Novel Heartbeat and Melissa at Writer Grrl Reads. Here is another challenge to help me get caught up on all those series that I have started! This is the level that I am aiming for:

10-25 points: Newbie

2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #7)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Witch of Wyckhadden by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #9)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Fairies of Fryfam by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #10)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Love From Hell by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #11)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Day the Floods Came by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #12)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Case of the Curious Curate by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #13)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Haunted House by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #14)
2 POINTS: The Treatment by Suzanne Young (The Program, Book #2)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Deadly Dance by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #15)
2 POINTS: Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and the Perfect Paragon by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #16)
2 POINTS: Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11)
2 POINTS + 10 POINTS: Reached by Ally Condie (Matched, Book #3)
1 POINT: Neverfall by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #1.5)
2 POINTS: Agatha Raisin and Love, Lies and Liquor by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #17)
2 POINTS: The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)
2 POINTS: Unhinged by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #2)
2 POINTS: Everbound by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #2)
1 POINT: Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)
2 POINTS: Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)
2 POINTS: Kissing Christmas Goodbye by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #18)
2 POINTS: The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13)
1 POINT: The Recovery by Suzanne Young (The Program, Book #2.5)
2 POINTS: A Spoonful of Poison by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #19)
2 POINTS: There Goes the Bride by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #20)
2 POINTS: The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14)
2 POINTS: Busy Body by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #21)
2 POINTS: Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4)
2 POINTS: As the Pig Turns by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, #22)
2 POINTS + 10 POINTS: Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3)
1 POINT: Love is a Choice by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #0.6)
1 POINT: As They Slip Away by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #2.5)
2 POINTS + 10 POINTS: Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)
2 POINTS: Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)
2 POINTS: Something Borrowed, Someone Dead by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #24)
2 POINTS: Death of a Cupcake Queen by Lee Hollis (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, Book #6)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Bekka at Pretty Deadly Reviews. The goal is to read backlist books that are at least a year old. That's not a problem for me, since I have tons of old books on my TBR pile! There are no challenge levels, so my personal goal is:

Read 10 backlist books

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)

Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe

The Christmas Angel Project by Melody Carlson

A December Bride by Denise Hunter (A Year of Weddings 1, Book #1)

The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (Greer Family, Book #1)

Something Borrowed, Someone Dead by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #24)

Dashing Through the Snow by Debbie Macomber

The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? by Rick Warren

Finding Noel by Richard Paul Evans

The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado

Daily Readings from It's Your Time: 90 Devotions for Activating Your Faith, Achieving Your Dreams, and Increasing in God's Favor by Joel Osteen

Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier (Lucy Stone, Book #1)

A Child's Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

Death of a Cupcake Queen by Lee Hollis (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, Book #6)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being co-hosted by Melanie at Hot Listens and Jennifer at The Book Nympho. This is my favourite reading challenge! I am aiming for:

Binge Listener (Why read when someone can do it for you) 20-30 audiobooks

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)

Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe

A December Bride by Denise Hunter (A Year of Weddings 1, Book #1)

The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (Greer Family, Book #1)

Something Borrowed, Someone Dead by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #24)

Dashing Through the Snow by Debbie Macomber

Finding Noel by Richard Paul Evans

The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado

As the Pig Turns by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, #22)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Bea at Bea's Book Nook. I am a huge advocate of utilizing our public libraries. My local branch told me that I single-handedly increased the circulation of their small branch with all my inter-library loan requests! The level that I am aiming for is:

Picture book: Read 6 library books

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

until June 30, 2017

This challenge is being hosted by John at The Book Mine Set. The goal is to read a minimum of 13 Canadian books in a one-year span, from Canada Day to Canada Day.

Some Canadian books on my TBR pile include:

Scars by Cheryl Rainfield
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje
Bitten by Kelley Armstrong
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Linwood Barclay
The Sweetness At The Bottom Of The Pie by Alan Bradley (Flavia de Luce Series, Book 1)
Douglas Coupland
Joy Fielding
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Little Bee by Chris Cleave
Atonement by Ian McEwan
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
Erica Jong
J.A. Jance

This challenge is being hosted by Sophia Rose at Delighted Reader. The goal is to find items in romance books from the following Scavenger Hunt list:

Household Goods

Ceiling Fan
Portrait
House Plant
Pumpkin
~~Candelabra~~
~~Dead Bolt~~
~~Grandfather Clock/Mantle Clock~~
Window Blinds
Microwave
Table Cloth
Razor
Nail Polish
Hand/Purse Mirror
Coffee Table
E-Reader
Earbuds
Window Shutters
Sink
Lawn Mower/Equipment
~~Tile floor~~

Clothing/Accessories

Hard Helmet
~~Earring/s~~
Head Band
Flip Flops
Motorcycle boots
~~Belt~~
Tattoo/Body Art
Evening Gown/Dress
Business Suit
Cuff Links
Space Suit
Military Uniform
Fisherman/Newsboy Cap
Scarf
~~Mask~~
Bracelets/Cuffs
Natty or Ugly Sweater
Sunglasses
Business Card/s
Lingerie

Work Tools/Weapons

Rifle
Saddle
~~Whip~~
Hammer
Tool Belt/Box
Briefcase/bag
File Folder
Work Gloves/Garden Gloves
~~Cash Register~~
Measuring Tape/Ruler
Microscope
Ingredients
Sports Equipment
Silencer for a gun
Explosive
Lock Picks
Safe
Photocopier
Stamps
~~Notebook/pad~~

Transportation/Places

European Sports Car
American Muscle Car
Fighter Jet/Spacecraft
Steam-Powered Vehicle
Ice Skate/s
Russia
China
India
Spain
Brazil
Underwater
Another planet
Another Dimension/Parallel Earth
Desert
Tropical Island
Place of Archeological Interest
War Zone
Cart/Wagon
Camel/Donkey
Sailboat

Romantic Encounters

Alien/Alien or Alien/Human
With a Geek
Male/Male or Female/Female
Menage or Poly
Love Triangle
Arranged Marriage
Fated Mate
~~Fake Mates/Marriage of Convenience~~
~~Reunion or Second Chance~~
Blind Date/Dating Service
Dominant/submissive or Master/slave
Capture/captive
~~One Night Stand~~
Male/Female
Older/Younger (5 years or more age difference)
Highschool Sweethearts/Young Love
Apocalyptic/Dystopian Romance
Romance before 1950
Older Couple (over 50)/Winter Romance
Enemies to Lovers

This is definitely a unique challenge, and I think it will be a tough one! I am aiming for:

Level One – Treasure Hunter in Training- 10 items/10 places

CANDELABRA: Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10), at the start of Chapter 6 "Across the porcelain and the silver, on the far side of the bouquets of flowers and the curling candelabra, a robed figure sat motionless and self-contained in a chair precisely opposite of his own."

MANTLE CLOCK: Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11), "Periodically, the antique clock on the mantle chimed, and then after a long while the shutters began to descend over the windows."

MASK: The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12), "As Assail pulled a black mask over his face, they did the same -- and then it was time to dematerialize."

WHIP: Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5), at Page 62: "Scars...that looked like they had been left by whips."

TILE FLOOR: Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3), at Page 7: "Fingers shaking, she fished through the interior of the purse, then as the pain increased, dumped the contents onto the tile floor."

EARRINGS: The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13), at Page 473:"So let's get you the biggest fucking ring in this place and a pair of earrings to match."

NOTEPAD: Beg for Mercy by Jami Alden (Dead Wrong, Book #1), at Page 57: "Cole flipped his notepad closed and rose from the coffee table."

DEAD BOLT: Blood Kiss by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Legacy, Book #1), at Page 189: "Butch didn't bother turning the lights on; he just pulled his female against his body and kissed the everloving crap out of her as he kicked the door closed and worked that dead bolt like a pro."

CASH REGISTER: The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14), at Page 157: "The brunette who was behind the cash register took one look at him -- and what do you know, no waiting for Rhage."

ONE NIGHT STAND: Little Black Dress by James Patterson with Emily Raymond

FAKE MATES/MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE: A December Bride by Denise Hunter (A Year of Weddings 1, Book #1)

BELT: Dashing Through the Snow by Debbie Macomber, at Page 104: "Okay, I'll put it bluntly: Your brains are located below your belt."

SECOND CHANCE: A Magical Christmas by Heather Graham

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Shelleyrae at Book'd Out! This is another tough challenge that I have never managed to complete. You have to read a total of 12 books, one from each of the following categories:

~~A book about books (fiction or nonfiction)~~
~~Serial killer thriller~~
~~Paranormal romance~~
~~A novel set on an island~~
Investigative journalism (non fiction)
~~Disaster fiction~~
~~Steampunk sci fi~~
Any book shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize
Psychology (non fiction)
~~Immigrant Experience fiction~~
~~YA historical fiction~~
~~A debut author in 2016~~

PARANORMAL ROMANCE: Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

SERIAL KILLER THRILLER: Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)

A NOVEL SET ON AN ISLAND: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1)

DISASTER FICTION: Monster Island by David Wellington (Monster Island, Book #1)

STEAMPUNK SCI-FI: Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

YA HISTORICAL FICTION: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

DEBUT AUTHOR IN 2016: After the Woods by Kim Savage

IMMIGRANT EXPERIENCE FICTION: The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (Greer Family, Book #1); The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

A BOOK ABOUT BOOKS: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

This challenge is being hosted by Bev at My Reader's Block. It is another unique challenge that I have never managed to complete, although the rules are a bit more relaxed since I last joined. It used to be that the colour had to be in the title of the book. Now, the colour can also be the dominant colour of the book cover. The goal is to read a total of 9 books, one from each of the following categories:

~~1. A book with "Blue" or any shade of Blue (Turquoise, Aquamarine, Navy, etc) in the title/on the cover.~~

~~2. A book with "Red" or any shade of Red (Scarlet, Crimson, Burgandy, etc) in the title/on the cover.~~

~~3. A book with "Yellow" or any shade of Yellow (Gold, Lemon, Maize, etc.)in the title/on the cover.~~

~~4. A book with "Green" or any shade of Green (Emerald, Lime, Jade, etc) in the title/on the cover.~~

~~5. A book with "Brown" or any shade of Brown (Tan, Chocolate, Beige, etc) in the title/on the cover.~~

~~6. A book with "Black" or any shade of Black (Jet, Ebony, Charcoal, etc) in the title/on the cover.~~

7. ~~A book with "White" or any shade of White (Ivory, Eggshell, Cream, etc)in the title/on the cover.~~

~~8. A book with any other color in the title/on the cover (Purple, Orange, Silver, Pink, Magneta, etc.).~~

9. ~~A book with a word that implies color (Rainbow, Polka-dot, Plaid, Paisley, Stripe, etc.).~~

WHITE COVER: The Treatment by Suzanne Young (The Program, Book #2)
BROWN COVER: Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)
YELLOW IN THE TITLE: The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa
(a) RED COVER: Reached by Ally Condie (Matched, Book #3); (b) Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe
BLUE COVER: Unhinged by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #2)
A BOOK WITH ANY OTHER COLOR IN THE TITLE/ON THE COVER:(a) Busy Body by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #21); (b) A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
BLACK COVER: Looking for Alaska by John Green; or Little Black Dress by James Patterson with Emily Raymond
GREEN COVER: Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)
A BOOK WITH A WORD THAT IMPLIES COLOR: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Charlie at The Worm Hole. Here is another unique challenge that I love trying to complete! The goal is to read 6 books, one from each of the following categories:

~~A country (try not to use ‘Africa’!) Suggestions: Daphne Du Maurier’s Jamaica Inn, Xiaolu Guo’s I Am China, Martin Wagner’s Deutschland)~~
~~An item of clothing (Su Dharmapala’s Saree, Ann Brashare’s The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants, Javier Moro’sEl Sari Rojo; Pierre Lemaitre’s Vestido De Novia)~~
~~An item of furniture (Marghanita Laski’s The Victorian Chaise-Longue; C S Lewis’s The Silver Chair; Gøhril Gabrielsen’s The Looking-Glass Sisters)~~
~~A profession (Adriana Trigiani’s The Shoemaker’s Wife; Mikhail Elizarov’s The Librarian)~~
~~A month of the year (Elizabeth Von Arnim’s The Enchanted April; Rhoda Baxter’s Doctor January)~~
~~A title with the word ‘tree’ in it (Ai Mi’s Under The Hawthorn Tree; Elle Newmark’s The Sandalwood Tree)~~

A PROFESSION: Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8)
AN ITEM OF CLOTHING: Little Black Dress by James Patterson with Emily Raymond
A MONTH OF THE YEAR: A December Bride by Denise Hunter (A Year of Weddings 1, Book #1)
A TITLE WITH THE WORD "TREE" IN IT: The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (Greer Family, Book #1)
AN ITEM OF FURNITURE: Agatha Raisin and the Case of the Curious Curate by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #13)
A COUNTRY: A Child's Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

The Reporters Challenge 2016

This challenge is being hosted by The Challenge Factory over on Goodreads. The level that I am aiming for is:

Cub reporter: 5 books (1 from each category)

WHO

Protagonist is a forensic specialist (forensic accountant, forensic artist, forensic pathologist, forensic dentist, etc)

~~Protagonist is a crime-solving duo (any 2 person team: hubby/wife, siblings, professionals, etc)~~

~~Protagonist is a dead person (ghost, skeleton, vampire, zombie…anybody who is dead)~~

Protagonist works with animals (vet, dog walker, zookeeper, etc)

~~Protagonist is a legal professional (judge, lawyer, paralegal etc)~~

WHAT

Number in the title

~~Poison in the title~~

~~Weather in the title~~

~~Color in title~~

~~Title starts with the same letter as your last name~~

WHERE

~~Set in a little town~~

NOT set on land (cruise ship, boat, airplane, spaceship, etc)

Set in Nevada

~~Set on foreign soil (not America or England)~~

~~Historical novel (pre 1930)~~

WHEN

~~One book set during a party (family reunion, birthday, Christmas, etc)~~

~~One that centers around a holiday~~

One Dark & Stormy night – bad weather plays big role in story

~~One where the protagonist has to beat the clock (time is crucial to solving mystery)~~

One set during a courtroom trial

HOW

(Method of Murder)

~~Poison is murder weapon~~

Knife/stabbing is murder weapon

~~Gun/shooting is murder weapon~~

~~Blunt object is murder weapon~~

Rope/strangulation is murder weapon

1. WHERE
a) (SET IN A LITTLE TOWN): Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #7)

b) (SET ON FOREIGN SOIL): Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1)
c) (HISTORICAL NOVEL PRE-1930): The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado

2. HOW:

a) (POISON IS MURDER WEAPON): Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8)

b) (BLUNT OBJECT IS MURDER WEAPON): Agatha Raisin and the Witch of Wyckhadden by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #9)
c) (GUN/SHOOTING IS MURDER WEAPON): Let's Play Make Believe by James Patterson with James O. Born

3. WHAT:
a) (WEATHER IN THE TITLE): Agatha Raisin and the Day the Floods Came by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #12)
b) (COLOR IN THE TITLE): The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa
c) (POISON IN THE TITLE): A Spoonful of Poison by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #19)
d) (TITLE STARTS WITH THE SAME LETTER AS YOUR LAST NAME): Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

4. WHEN:
a) (ONE WHERE THE PROTAGONIST HAS TO BEAT THE CLOCK): Chasing the Dead by Joe Schreiber
b) (ONE THAT CENTERS AROUND A HOLIDAY): Kissing Christmas Goodbye by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #18)
c) (ONE BOOK THAT IS SET DURING A PARTY): Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe

5. WHO
a) (PROTAGONIST IS A DEAD PERSON - A VAMPIRE): Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)
b) (PROTAGONIST IS A CRIME-SOLVING DUO): Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)
c) (PROTAGONIST IS A LEGAL PROFESSIONAL - COURT APPOINTED ADVOCATE): Beg for Mercy by Jami Alden (Dead Wrong, Book #1)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Kathryn at The Book Date. I love trying to complete these bingo card challenges, but they are so tough! You are allowed "one free exchange" if there is something on the card that you really dislike and you can change it to something of your choice. You have to mention the exchange in your Final Summary post.

Here is the bingo card:

AUTHOR OUTSIDE OWN COUNTRY: Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #7)

LIBRARY BOOK: Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8)

YOU'D LIKE TO CHANGE THE COVER: Agatha Raisin and the Witch of Wyckhadden by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #9)

BOOK FROM SERIES YOU LOVE: Agatha Raisin and the Fairies of Fryfam by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #10)

YOU DIDN'T WANT TO PUT IT DOWN: Agatha Raisin and the Love From Hell by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #11)

HAD LAUGH OUT LOUD MOMENTS: Agatha Raisin and the Day the Floods Came by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #12)

DEBUT NOVEL: Chasing the Dead by Joe Schreiber

BOOK YOU BOUGHT: The Treatment by Suzanne Young (The Program, Book #2)

A DOMINANT COLOR ON COVER: Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

MEMOIR: The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa

BEEN ON TBR FOREVER: Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11)

SELF-CHALLENGE (LAST BOOK IN A SERIES): Reached by Ally Condie (Matched, Book #3)

WOULD MAKE A GOOD MOVIE: The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

FAMILY RELATIONSHIP WORD IN TITLE: Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)

PUBLISHED 2015: Kissing Christmas Goodbye by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #18)

BY AUTHOR YOU WISH WAS KNOWN BETTER: Beg for Mercy by Jami Alden (Dead Wrong, Book #1)

FIRST IN A SERIES: Blood Kiss by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Legacy, Book #1)

NEW AUTHOR TO YOU: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1)

PUBLISHED IN 2016: The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14)

WAY OUT OF COMFORT ZONE (STEAMPUNK): Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

SETTING BEGINS WITH A B (BOARDING SCHOOL): Looking for Alaska by John Green

BOOK CLUB WORTHY: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

COLOR WORD IN TITLE: Little Black Dress by James Patterson with Emily Raymond

THOUGHT PROVOKING BOOK: Scars by Cheryl Rainfield

AUTHOR'S SURNAME STARTS WITH THE SAME LETTER AS YOURS: Skipping Christmas by John Grisham

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Yvonne at Socrates Book Reviews. The goal is to read books that have any of the following elements:

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).

I am aiming for Level 1: Read at least 6 books

Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8) [animal on the cover]

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10) [main character is a vampire]

Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11) [main character is a vampire]

The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12) [main character is a vampire]

Unhinged by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #2) [main character is a netherling]

Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5) [main character is a vampire]

The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13) [main character is a vampire]

Blood Kiss by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Legacy, Book #1) [main character is a vampire]

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1) [animal in the title, and a main character turns into said animal!]

The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14) [main character is a vampire]

Monster Island by David Wellington (Monster Island, Book #1) [one of the main characters is a zombie]

Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4) [the main characters are werewolves]

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1) [one of the main characters is a zombie]

Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23) [snakes are the murder weapon]

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1) [the main character turns into a mink]

The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers by L.J. Sattgast [animals on the cover and in the stories]

'Salem's Lot by Stephen King [an animal, a vampire, plays a major role]

The Rhyme Bible Storybook by L.J. Sattgast [animals on the cover and in the stories]

Death of a Cupcake Queen by Lee Hollis (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, Book #6) [dogs on the cover]

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Ebookclassics. Some book-to-movie adaptations that I want to read/watch are:

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane

I am aiming to read/watch 3 book-to-movie adaptations.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1)

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

M - Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1)

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Dollycas at Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book. The goal is to read one that has a title starting for every letter of the alphabet. The exceptions are Letters Q, X and Z: Those letters can be anywhere in the title. You can drop "A" and "The" from book titles.

A - Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #7)

B - Beg for Mercy by Jami Alden (Dead Wrong, Book #1)

C - Chasing the Dead by Joe Schreiber

D - Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4)

E - Everbound by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #2)

F - Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)

G - Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

H - The Haunted by Bentley Little

J - The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

K - The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

L - Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

N - Neverfall by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #1.5)

O - Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3)

P - The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? by Rick Warren

Q - Death of a Cupcake Queen by Lee Hollis (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, Book #6)

R - Reached by Ally Condie (Matched, Book #3)

S - The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13)

T - The Treatment by Suzanne Young (The Program, Book #2)

U - Unhinged by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #2)

W - We Were Liars by E. Lockhart

X - The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty

Y - The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa

Z - Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8)

This challenge is being hosted by Michelle at red headed book child. This one is a little different. Instead of book titles fitting into each letter of the alphabet, the goal is to use the mystery author's first or last name. It is not a requirement to finish the whole alphabet, and I saw some other participants setting smaller goals, so my goal will be:

Complete 6 letters of the alphabet

B - Beaton, M.C.: Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #7)

M - M.C. Beaton: Agatha Raisin and the Wizard of Evesham by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #8)
J - Jackson, Lisa: Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)

F - Flynn, Gillian: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
M - Meier, Leslie: Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier (Lucy Stone, Book #1)
H - Hollis, Lee: Death of a Cupcake Queen by Lee Hollis (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, Book #6)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Amanda at The Well Read Unicorn. The goal is to read books featuring a lady detective. The challenge level that I am aiming for is:

Jane: 4-6 books (You’re quite the clever old bird, but the local constabulary really wish you’d keep out of it.)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Yvonne at Socrates Book Reviews. I love cozy mysteries and don't read enough of them! Here is the challenge level that I am aiming for:

Level 1 - Snoop - Read at least 6 books

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Dollycas at Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book. I love cozy mysteries, so here is the level that I am aiming for:

Famished – 1 – 10 Cozy Mysteries

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Christine at Buckling Bookshelves. The level that I am aiming for is:

Making Waves: 1-2 Challenged Books

Some banned books on my TBR pile include:

Looking for Alaska by John Green
Scars by Cheryl Rainfield
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Crank by Ellen Hopkins
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Harry Potter series
Blood and Chocolate by Annette Curtis Klause
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being co-hosted by Tracy at Cornerfolds and Claudia at My Soul Called Life. I love dystopia! The challenge level that I am aiming for is:

Read and review 1-5 dystopian books to receive the Recruit badge.

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

Love is a Choice by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #0.6)

As They Slip Away by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #2.5)

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Tracy at Cornerfolds. This is another genre that I enjoy but do not read enough of (except I really try to squeeze in some books for October!). The challenge level that I am aiming for is:

Read and review 1-5 horror books to receive the Running Scared badge

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

Some horror books on my TBR pile include:

Ten by Gretchen McNeil
Velveteen by Daniel Marks
This Is Not A Test by Courtney Summers
The Turning by Francine Prose
The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff
Rot & Ruin by Jonathan Maberry
Dracula by Bram Stoker
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
The Walking Dead by Robert Kirkman
Hollowland by Amanda Hocking
Fighting to Survive by Rhiannon Frater
Siege by Rhiannon Frater
Ghost Story by Peter Straub
The Passage by Justin Cronin

This challenge is being hosted by Julie at Whole Latte Books. Any vampire or werewolf books count for this challenge. There are no formal challenge levels, so here is what I am aiming for:

Read 5 vampire/werewolf books in 2016

Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11)

The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)

The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13)

Blood Kiss by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Legacy, Book #1)

The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14)

Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4)

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Renee at Addicted To Romance. I love the Paranormal Romance genre! The challenge level that I am aiming for is:

5-15 Books- A Shifter Cub Taking Risks In The Forests

Lover at Last by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #11)

The King by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #12)

Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)

The Shadows by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #13)

Blood Kiss by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Legacy, Book #1)

The Beast by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #14)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Melissa at Melissa's Eclectic Bookshelf. I love anything having to do with the paranormal. Here is the challenge level that I am aiming for:

Initiate: Read 1 – 5 Witchy Books

Some witchy books on my TBR pile include:

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)
A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy, #1) - Deborah Harkness
Witchlanders by Lena Coakley
Hex Hall (Hex Hall #1) - Rachel Hawkins

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Shooting Stars Reviews. This is another genre that I enjoy but don't read enough of! Here is the challenge level that I am aiming for:

Civilian: read 1–10 romantic suspense novels

Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)

Beg for Mercy by Jami Alden (Dead Wrong, Book #1)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Jo at Once Upon A Bookcase. I have quite a few fairy tale retellings on my TBR pile, so here is the challenge level that I am aiming for:

Easy: 1-4 retellings

Unhinged by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #2)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

Some of the retellings on my TBR pile include:

Cloaked by Alex Flinn
Cress by Marissa Meyer
Towering by Alex Flinn
Strands of Bronze and Gold by Jane Nickerson
Kill Me Softly by Sarah Cross
Stung by Bethany Wiggins
Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
Sweetly by Jackson Pearce
Fathomless by Jackson Pearce

This challenge is being hosted by Julie at Whole Latte Books. This challenge does not have formal levels, so this is what I am aiming for:

Read 3 Young Adult books in 2016

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3)

Looking for Alaska by John Green

Love is a Choice by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #0.6)

As They Slip Away by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #2.5)

Shades of Earth by Beth Revis (Across the Universe, Book #3)

After the Woods by Kim Savage

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #10)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Stephanie at In Wonderland. The challenge level that I am aiming for is:

1-5 books – Sleuth

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Lois at You, Me and a Cup of Tea. I don't usually re-read books, but there are some series that I have neglected for a long time and will need to re-read the last ones that I previously read to refresh my memory. Therefore, here is the challenge level that I am aiming for:

Level 1 0-15 Re-reading itch

The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers by L.J. Sattgast

The Yellow World: How Fighting for My Life Taught Me How to Live by Albert Espinosa

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This challenge is being hosted by Jen at The Introverted Reader. Here is the level that I am aiming for:

Dilettante--Read 1-5 non-fiction books

The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers by L.J. Sattgast

The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? by Rick Warren

Daily Readings from It's Your Time: 90 Devotions for Activating Your Faith, Achieving Your Dreams, and Increasing in God's Favor by Joel Osteen

Neverfall by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #1.5)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This seasonal challenge is being hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings. I look forward to it every Autumn! It runs from September 1st to October 31st, and there are a number of goals to choose from. Books that count are mystery, suspense, thriller, gothic, horror, and dark fantasy genres. Here are the levels that I am aiming for:

Read four books, of any length, from the very broad categories earlier defined as perilous. They could all be by the same author, a series of books, a random mix of classic and contemporary or whatever you like.

Everbound by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #2)

Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs (Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children, Book #1)

Monster Island by David Wellington (Monster Island, Book #1)

The Haunted by Bentley Little

Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4)

As the Pig Turns by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, #22)

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3)

Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

When I think of Autumn I think of the short stories of Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, Neil Gaiman, Roald Dahl. I am very fond of the short story and when I started R.I.P. I knew that it had to have a Peril of its own. Read one or many short stories throughout our two-month event and you will have taken on and overcame this Peril.

Masque of the Red Death by Edgar Allan Poe

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This seasonal challenge is being hosted by Lisa at Lisa Loves Literature.

Objective:
To read and review a minimum of 4 sequels between the dates of September 1st and 30th, 2016.

Here are some sequels that I need to read, but I am not sure yet which four I will choose:

Neverfall by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #1.5)
Everbound by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #2)
Father Mine by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood, Book #6.5)
Born to Die by Lisa Jackson (Montana - To Die, Book #3)
The Recovery by Suzanne Young (The Program, Book #2.5)
Afraid to Die by Lisa Jackson (To Die, Book #4)
Ensnared by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #3)
Untamed by A.G. Howard (Splintered, Book #3.5)
The Neighbor by Lisa Gardner (D.D. Warren, Book #3)
Fighting to Survive by Rhiannon Frater (As the World Dies, Book #2)
Siege by Rhiannon Frater (As the World Dies, Book #3)
Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3)
Evertrue by Brodi Ashton (Everneath, Book #3)
Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4)
Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs (Mercy Thompson, Book #3)

FALL 2016 SCAVENGER: MAKE YOUR OWN APPLE CIDER
Timeframe: 9/21/16 to 12/20/16

This challenge is being hosted by Crazy Challenge Connection at Goodreads.

1. Read a book with a fruit or vegetable in the title or on the cover (must be visible in the GR thumbnail; post the cover) OR a book that boosts your mood in some way.

A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess [a fruit in the title]

2. Read a book that seems to fit a standard formula (tell us how) OR a book with a X somewhere in the title or author's name (if you use the author option, tell us his/her name).

The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty [x in the title]

3. Read a book that someone else discarded OR a book that you previously abandoned.

Skipping Christmas by John Grisham [book that someone else discarded]

4. Read a book that you got for free OR a book with an unattractive cover (tell us why you think it's unattractive; post the cover).

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne (got for free)

5. Read a book by an author whose first AND last initials can be found in one of the apple varieties named (Red and Golden Delicious, Jonathan, Northern Spy, and Rome Beauty) OR a book originally published in October of any year (tell us the year).

Hiss and Hers by M.C. Beaton (Agatha Raisin, Book #23)
[Rome Beauty, M=Marion and B=Beaton]

6. Read a book with some sort of wild animal on the cover (must be visible in the GR thumbnail; post the cover) OR a book by an author who has published at least 10 books (tell us how many books).

Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs (Alpha & Omega, Book #4) [definitely 10+ books]

7. Read a book with an intact "23" in its total number of pages (tell us how many pages) OR a book with a container of some sort on the cover (must be visible in the GR thumbnail; post the cover).

The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver (Greer Family, Book #1) [read a book with an intact "23" in its total number of pages, 232 pages]

8. Read a book with a cluttered cover (post the cover) OR a book that takes place before the advent of telephones, cars, etc. (tell us when).

The Christmas Candle by Max Lucado [a book that takes place before the advent of telephones, cars, etc., starts in 1664 and then moves to 1864]

9. Read a book with at least two different genres on its main GR page (for example, mystery and historical; tell us the genres) OR a book written by two or more authors.

Oblivion by Kelly Creagh (Nevermore, Book #3) [Young Adult and Fantasy]

10. Read a book in which a business closes (permanently, not a temporary shutdown) OR a book set in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan or Washington (state); tell us the state.

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1) [book set in Cincinnati, Ohio]

11. Read a book set in a location that is cold more often than not (tell us the location) OR a short book (150-200 pages, tell us how many).

The Christmas Angel Project by Melody Carlson [176 pages]

12. Read a book with a character who works in/owns a bar OR a book with a sweet character who turns hard/bitter by the end of the book.

After the Woods by Kim Savage [book with a sweet character who turns hard/bitter by the end of the book]

13. Read a book from a series that has not yet ended OR a book with a beverage of some sort on the cover (must be visible in the GR thumbnail; post the cover).

14. Read a book that was originally published at least a decade ago (tell us when it was published) OR a enough half-step books to equal 150+ pages.

'Salem's Lot by Stephen King [published in 1976]

15. Read a book with a glass object of some sort (not a window, but something like a jar, vase, wine glass) on the cover (must be visible in the GR thumbnail; post the cover) OR a book with a night scene on the cover (post the cover).

Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier (Lucy Stone, Book #1) [glass of milk on the cover]

CHALLENGE COMPLETE!

This seasonal challenge is being hosted by Julie at Whole Latte Books. There are no challenge levels. Books should feature vampires, werewolves, zombies, killer clowns, and any other monster as main characters or secondary characters. I am aiming for at least two books.

Here are some "bitey" books on my TBR mountain:

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel (Gone With the Respiration, Book #1)

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison (The Hollows, Book #1)