Finished Monthly Challenges
2020 January Monthly Challenge
❄️1. Happy January Birthday! Read a book published in January or read a book with red on the cover in honor of January's birthstone, the Garnet.
❄️2. Flower of the Month - Carnation: The Carnation symbolizes Hope, Rebirth, and Gratitude. Read a book with a hopeful or uplifting theme, OR a book where someone is starting a new life or remaking themself in some way, OR a book by a favorite author (one you're grateful for).
❄️3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Tessa Bailey: Read a book written by Tessa Bailey or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Tessa Bailey:
* Tessa writes primarily contemporary romance and chick lit
* She was born and raised in Southern California
* Right after her high school graduation she drove cross-country to New York City
* Many of her most valuable life experiences happened while she was waitressing at her uncle's Manhattan pub.
* Tessa lives in Long Island, New York with her husband and daughter
You may also read a book set in California or New York, or by an author who is from California or New York. You can also read any book shelved as Contemporary Romance or chick lit, or a book that includes a character involved in the hospitality industry.
❄️4. January 1 - New Year's Day: Start the New Year off right by reading a book by a new-to-you author, or the first book in a new-to-you series.
❄️5. January 6 - Cuddle Up Day: Read a book that would be perfect to cuddle up with in front of a fire on a snowy afternoon - or that would be a perfect beach read if you're in the Southern Hemisphere or other warm climate!
❄️6. January 8 - Male Watchers Day: Read a book with a hot guy on the cover! 😁
❄️7. January 14 - Dress Up Your Pet Day: Read a book with an animal in the story or on the cover (shifters count).
❄️8. January 23 - Measure Your Feet Day: Read a book with feet or hands (or paws) visible on the cover.
❄️9. January 26 - Australia Day: Read a book set in Australia, or with an Australian author or character, or you can read a book with green and/or gold on the cover.
❄️10. Reader's Choice: Read any book of your choice.
1. Twisted Twenty-Six - Janet Evanovich (Penguin - Nov 2019) (red on cover) - Jan 6
4. Safety Breach - Delores Fossen (HI #1893 - Dec 2019) (first book in series) - Jan 22
7. Her Homerun Hottie - Wynter Daniels (CPC Publishing - Sept 2019) (cats) - Jan 2
8. Caught in the Crossfire - Linda O. Johnston (HRS #2016 - Nov 2019) (hands) - Jan 9
2020 February Monthly Challenge
1. Happy February Birthday!:
💜 Read a book published in February or read a book with purple on the cover in honor of February’s birthstone, the Amethyst.
2. Flower of the Month – Violet: The Violet symbolizes Modesty, Faithfulness, and Humility.
💜 Read a book with a character who is modest or humble, or read a book with a couple that remains faithful despite temptations. You can also read a book with a couple making a commitment (such as marriage), a book shelved as LGBT, a book written by one of your go-to authors, or a book with the letter V anywhere in its title.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) – Jeaniene Frost:
💜 Read one book written by Jeaniene Frost, or any author with her first or last name.
Link to Jeaniene Frost’s backlist: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/669810.Jeaniene_Frost.
Fun Facts about Jeaniene Frost:
* Jeaniene Frost lives with her husband in Florida
* Her Night Huntress series is Urban Fantasy Romance
* Her debut novel was published in 2007
* Jeaniene is afraid of airplanes, preferring to travel by car
💜 You may also read a book set in Florida, or by an author who is from Florida. You can also read a book any book published in 2007, a book that is shelved as Urban Fantasy, or a book where a character travels by car.
4. White Shirt Day – February 11: This national holiday honors the men and women who participated in the 1937 General Motors strike. As a result of the strike, the United Auto Workers union became the sole bargaining agent for GM autoworkers.
💜 Read a book with an autoworker or mechanic character, or read a book where someone buys a new car or needs their car repaired. You can also read a book with white on its cover, a book with any method of transportation on its cover, or a book where characters make a bargain/deal/agreement (your interpretation).
5. Cherry Pie Day – February 20: The apple pie might be America’s most popular pie, but the cherry pie comes in second place.
💜 Read a book with a character who bakes, or a character who eats a baked good. You can also read a book with food on its cover, a book with red on its cover, or a book set in Michigan (record holder of the second largest cherry pie).
6. Tell a Fairy Tale Day – February 26: Modern fairy tales are generally known for their happily-ever-afters. These myths and legends were orally passed down, then eventually put into writing. As they evolved throughout time, magical qualities snuck in, and depending on the author, the stories ranged from sugary-sweet to gruesome.
💜 Read a retelling of a fairy tale, a book where one character tells another a story, or a book categorized in Goodreads as fantasy, paranormal, or mythology. You can also read a book that makes you happy, a book with a happily-ever-after ending, or a book that you can’t wait to tell others about.
7. Westminster Dog Show: The show was founded in 1877 by a group of hunters who met regularly in Manhattan and decided to create a kennel club just so they could host a dog show. Now each year, the dogs take over Madison Square Garden during the week of Valentine’s Day for the annual Westminster Dog Show!
💜 Read a book with a dog in it, or read a book with an animal on its cover. You can also read a book set in the 1800s, or a book set in New York, or a book with some sort of competition or sports in it.
8. Creative Romance Month: Dinner and a movie are so cliché. Celebrate the month of love by getting creative!
💜 Read a book where a couple has a unique date, wedding, or romantic encounter. You can also read a book with an embrace or kiss on its cover; a book with hearts, flowers, or candy on its cover; a book where Valentine’s Day is celebrated; or a book where a character does something creative (your interpretation).
9. Pluto Day: Now demoted to the status of dwarf planet, Pluto was discovered by Clyde Tombaugh in February 1930 and named by Venetia Burney, an 11-year-old schoolgirl from England with a fascination for classical mythology.
💜 Read a book with a science theme (sci-fi counts), a scientist character, a character who makes a discovery, or a character who enjoys science. You can also read any book published in 2006 (the year Pluto was reclassified to dwarf planet), a book set in England, or a book with any celestial object on its cover.
10. Reader's Choice:
💜 Read any book of your choice.
4. Nicholas: Lord of Secrets - Grace Burrowes (Sourcebooks Casablanca - May 2013) (marriage bargain) - Feb 19
5. Let it Snow - Nancy Thayer (Ballantine - Oct 2019) (red on cover) - Feb 21
6. The Other Miss Bridgerton - Julia Quinn (Avon - Nov 2018) (HEA) - Feb 21
7. Under a Firefly Moon - Donna Kauffman (Kensington - Feb 2020) (horses on cover) - Feb 3
9. Project Duchess - Sabrina Jeffries (Zebra - June 2019) (England) - Feb 28
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2020 March Monthly Challenge
1. Happy March Birthday!
🍀 Read a book published in March, or read a book with light blue on the cover in honor of March's birthstone, the Aquamarine.
2. Flower of the Month - Daffodil: The Daffodil symbolizes New Beginnings, Prosperity, and Good Luck.
🍀 Read a book that is first in a series, or with a character who is considered wealthy. You can also read a book that you consider yourself lucky to get (ie: hold came in at the library, or you purchased the book on sale). In the language of flowers daffodils also symbolize friendship so you could also read a book that features a group of friends.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - T.J. Klune:
🍀 Read one book written by T.J. Klune or any author with his first or last name.
Fun Facts about T.J. Klune
He writes M/M romance
He has won the Lambda Literary Award
His first YA novel will be published in May 2020
He has written contemporary, fantasy and paranormal novels
You may also read a book that is LGBT, or a book that has won a literary award. You can also read a YA novel or a novel shelved as a contemporary, or fantasy or paranormal.
4. March 8th - International (Working) Woman’s Day:
International Women's Day is sponsored worldwide by the United Nations. However, the UN did not originate this special celebration. The roots of this celebration goes back to the late 1800's and early 1900s. It grew from women's socialist movements and early women's trade union groups.
The first International Women's Day was held March 19, 1911. Women socialists and trade unions held an earlier Women's Day on the last Sunday in February, 1908. The event grew from there, and has been celebrated annually since. The focus is upon women workers, and advancing women's rights in the workforce, politics and society.
🍀 Read a historical romance, preferably set in the late 1800’s or early 1900’s. You can also read a book where a character has a job in a skilled trade (plumber, carpenter, electrician, etc.). You may also read a book that has a 19 or an 11 in the page count.
5. March 10th - Middle Name Pride Day:
Middle Name Pride Day honors the seldom used middle name that often sets you apart from others. It was selected with care, so you should be proud of it. Here's two big reasons to be proud of your middle name: First, there are plenty of John Smiths and Mary Jones. It’s the middle name your parents gave you that makes your name unique. Second, your parents chose your middle name with great care. It often was selected to honor a friend or relative. That person may have possessed certain characteristics that they want you to inherit.
🍀 Read a novel where the author has three names (initials can be counted as names), or you can read a book by an author that has the same name as you (first, middle or last). You can also read a book where a main character shares your name.
6. March 12th - Popcorn Lover’s Day:
Many of us love popcorn. So, it only makes sense that there should be a special day just for popcorn lovers. Popcorn is good for you, when eaten plain. It is not as healthy, when it's loaded with salt and butter. But, all that butter and salt tastes so good. This day is intended to enjoy popcorn and share it with others. This day was created on January 6, 2012, by Bob Matthews of Rochester, NY.
🍀 Read a book that has been or you think should be adapted into a movie or TV show (popcorn and movies are a great pairing). Or read a book set in New York state, or read a book with a cover that ‘pops’ (your interpretation).
7. March 20th - Proposal Day:
Ladies and gentlemen, this could be a big, big day. It's Proposal Day! Valentine's Day last month came and went. He didn't, or couldn't, gather up the nerve to ask you. Along comes another day and another opportunity. For those in love, this could very well be the big day that will change your lives.
🍀 Read a book where the main couple are already married, or read a book where a wedding or proposal takes place (between any of the characters), or features a bride or a groom on the cover.
8. March 21st - National Quilting Day:
I grew up with both a Mom and Aunt who were avid quilters. It was always a hobby I wanted to learn, but sadly, I’m all thumbs. The National Quilting Association started National Quilting Day in 1991. Their members passed a resolution at the 22and Annual Show in Lincoln, Nebraska, in June 1991. Today is a day to recognize and appreciate the quiltmakers, the skill and the warmth and the results. If you are a quiltmaker, spend a minute to recognize and appreciate that you have truly been blessed with a special skill. If you are not a quilt maker, wrap yourself into a quilt and enjoy the warmth.
🍀 Read a book that features a hobby or takes place in a craft store (quilt shop, knitting shop, etc). You may also read a book that makes you feel cozy, or that has cozy elements on the cover, or a book published in the 1990s.
9. March 26th - Make Your Own Holiday Day:
Because, why not!
Today is your day to skip all of the red tape, bypass all of the effort, and create a special day of any kind. Simply declare your special day on Make Your Own Holiday Day! (I suggest, Call in Sick to Work Day).
🍀 Read a book that features any holiday, or a book with a predominately red cover. Or read a book that you would love to curl up with, hiding from all the holiday hoopla.
10. Reader's Choice:
🍀 Read any book of your choice.
3. Colton's Deadly Disguise - Geri Krotow (HRS #2083 - Apr 2020) (contemporary) - Mar 22
4. A Highlander in a Pickup - Laura Trentham (St.Martin's - Feb 2020) (carpenter) - Mar 27
5.
7. Shanna - Kathleen E. Woodiwiss (Avon - Apr 1977) (married) - Mar 6
8.
9. Tucker - Emily March (St. Martin's - Feb 2020) (Valentine's Day) - Mar 6
10. The Bachelor - Sabrina Jeffries (Zebra - Mar 2020) - Mar 16
2020 April Monthly Challenge
1. Happy April Birthday!
🐇READ a book published in April, OR read a book with white on the cover in honor of April's birthstone, the Diamond.
2. Flower of the Month - Daisy ~ The Daisy symbolizes Purity, Innocence, and Transformation.
🐇READ a book with white and yellow on the cover OR read a sweet or clean romance OR a book with a title starting with D
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Julia Quinn ~
🐇READ one book written by Julia Quinn OR any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Julia Quinn
* Julia was born in NYC
* She entered but never completed medical school but she did graduate with a degree in Art History
* Julia's Bridgerton series premieres this year on Netflix
* Julia won the $79,000 jackpot on The Weakest Link gameshow!
OR
🐇READ a book set in New York, with a medical professional or an artist character OR a book made into a TV series or movie OR a book that features someone playing a game OR has the numbers 7 and 9 in the page count
4. National Pecan Month ~ Go ahead, go nuts. This April, celebrate National Pecan Month by recognizing the nut that reduces your risk of heart disease, lowers cholesterol, and contains fiber, protein, and more antioxidants than any other. Crowned as a heart-healthy food choice by the American Heart Association, pecans offer a tasty treat good for any time of the day.
🐇READ a book with brown on the cover OR with a heart on the cover OR with a character who is a little 'nutty' (your interpretation)
5. April 4 ~ Tell a Lie Day ~ if you ever need to tell a lie, today is the day to do so. But please, do not make a habit of lying! Why someone would create a day to encourage a person to lie is hard to comprehend. Be that as it may, today is the day to tell lies, big and small. Tomorrow, we can all get back to the virtue of "honesty is the best policy".
🐇READ a book where someone is caught in a lie OR someone tells a lie for protection OR where someone finds out the truth about something OR read a book with all the letters of LIE in the title (any order)
6. April 7 ~ No Housework Day ~ This is your chance to do anything, except housework. Better still, have someone else do the chores for a day. Housework is a daily, seemingly endless and repetitive groups of tasks. It often goes unrecognized and worst of all..... taken for granted. But, watch out! If the dishes aren't done, or there's no clean towels, somebody notices.
🐇READ a book where the MC does housework or a chore OR with a character whose job is to clean up messes (your interpretation) OR with a messy cover (again, your interpretation)
7. April 8 ~ Passover begins ~ Passover is the celebration of the freeing of the Jews from Egyptian rule around 3000 years ago. At the time, the Israelites were enslaved by the Egyptians ruler Pharaoh Ramses II. After God sent 10 terrible plagues among the Egyptians, the Pharaoh finally freed the Jewish people and they fled Egypt with Moses.
🐇READ a book set in a desert or very hot climate OR where someone is held against their will OR where something bad happens in the story OR with 10 in anywhere the publish date.
8. April 15 ~ Titanic Remembrance Day ~ dedicated to the memory of the Titanic, and the over 1500 people who died. On this day in 1912, the Titanic sank in the icy waters of the North Atlantic Ocean after hitting an iceberg. The historic sinking of the Titanic spurred numerous television documentaries, specials, and big-screen movies but no matter what, they all end the same way.
🐇READ a book with a ship or boat on the cover OR set in a very cold climate OR with a body of water on the cover
9. April 20 ~ Volunteer Recognition Day ~ honors the legions of volunteers who dedicate themselves to causes and helping others. They are making big and small differences in the lives of millions of people all over the world. They are saving lives. They are improving lives and providing comfort. They assist people, animals, and nature.
🐇READ a book with a character who volunteers or is helpful in some way OR read the first book that 'volunteers' to be read on your TBR (sort your TBR by Random and read the first book) OR read a book with a title or author name beginning with V
10. Reader's Choice ~
🐇READ any book of your choice
2. An Amish Home - Beth Wiseman, Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Ruth Reid (Thomas Nelson - Feb 2017) (sweet/clean) - Apr 6
7. Hunting for a Highlander - Lynsay Sands (Avon - Jan 2020) (kidnapped) - Apr 10
8. Beachside Beginnings - Sheila Roberts (Mira - Apr 2020) (ocean) - Apr 23
10. Call It Magic - Janet Chapman (Jove - May 2020) - Apr 16
2020 May Monthly Challenge
1. Happy May Birthday!
🌸Read a book published in May, or read a book with green on the cover in honor of May's birthstone, the Emerald.
2. Flower of the Month - Lily of the Valley: The Lily of the Valley symbolizes Sweetness, Motherhood, and Humility. It is also sometimes called May bells or Mary's tears; and very poisonous.
🌸Read a book that has a sweet character; or read a book where the MC is a mother or mother figure; or read a book that has some white on the cover.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Sarina Bowen:
🌸Read one book written by Sarina Bowen or any author with her first or last name.
Link to Sarina Bowen's backlist - https://www.goodreads.com/author/list...
Fun Facts about Sarina Bowen:
* Sarina Bowen has roots in Vermont
* Used to be a derivatives trader in Wall Street
* Award-winning author of more than 30 contemporary novels
* Has been in the USA Today bestseller's list 13 times and counting...
You may also read a book that has an author with the initial S and/or B; or read a book with a page count that has the number 0, 1, or 3.
4. May is Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This is because May was the month when the first of the Japanese immigrated to the United States (May 7, 1843) and May was also the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad where Chinese immigrants were mostly the workers (May 10,1869).
🌸Read a book with an Asian American/Pacific Islander MC, or where the MCs travel (bonus points if they travel by train, plane, or boat); or read a book where the MCs eat Chinese/Japanese/Filipino/Korean/Thai/etc. food.
5. May 5th is Cinco de Mayo but it is also National Teacher's Day. Now more than ever, especially if you have been homeschooling your kids, we need to show appreciation to our teachers!
🌸Read a book with a teacher MC or a book with a child/children. You can also read a book with the Mexican flag colors: red, white, or green, to commemorate the Mexican Army's victory over the French empire!
6. May 6th is National Nurses Day. Again, now more than ever, we understand the important role that nurses play as first responders. Along with other hospital staff, we need to honor our nurses!
🌸Read a book with a nurse MC or other first responders: doctors, police officers, firefighters, etc. You can also read a book with a page count that has the numbers: 5, 1, or 2 to commemorate Florence Nightingale's birthday on May 12th.
7. May 21st is National Waiters and Waitresses Day. All over the world, restaurants are fighting to stay open. We need to recognize the importance of good waiters/waitresses.
🌸Read a book with a MC that is in the restaurant industry: owner, chef, waiter/waitress, etc.; or read a book with a type of food found in a restaurant on the cover. You can also read a book that was recommended to you as a good "tip".
8. May 25th is National Wine Day. Many people right now are drinking wine, more than ever! So let's celebrate this alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes (or other fruits)!
🌸Read a book that is set in a country where they produce wine (Italy, France, Spain, or United States), or read a book where the MCs drink wine or another type of alcoholic beverage. You can also read a book that includes the letters W I N E in the author's name, book title, or series title.
9.May 31st is National Macaroon Day. Macaroon OR Macaron? Potayto, potahto. No, just kidding. Macaroons and macarons are two different cookies. Macaroons are coconut based, while macarons are meringue based; BOTH ARE DELICIOUS!
🌸Read a book set in Italy since that was where macaroons originated from, or read a book where one of the MCs eat a baked good, bonus points if it's a cookie - more bonus points if it's a MACAROON! You can also read a book where there is a circular object or something brown on the cover since the most popular flavor of macaroons in America is coconut.
10. Reader's Choice:
🌸Read any book of your choice.
2. Son of the Sheik - Ryshia Kennie (HI #1718 - June 2017) (mother) - May 11
4. Sheik's Rule - Ryshia Kennie (HI #1705 - Apr 2017) (travel by plane, helicopter) - May 8
5. The Irish Enchantress - Amy J. Fetzer (Zebra - Mar 2001) (child) - May 13
6. First Comes Scandal - Julia Quinn (Avon - Apr 2020) (doctor) - May 24
2020 June Monthly Challenge
1. Happy June Birthday!
😎Read a book published in June, OR read a book with black or white on the cover in honor of June's birthstone, the Pearl.
2. Flower of the Month - Honeysuckle: The Honeysuckle symbolizes Romance and Happiness. Honeysuckle derives its name from the edible sweet nectar obtainable from its tubular flowers.
😎Read a book with something sweet on the cover, OR a book with the letter H anywhere in the title, OR a book that makes you happy.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb:
😎Read one book written by Nora Roberts or J.D. Robb, or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Nora Roberts:
* Nora Roberts is the bestselling author of more than 200 novels
* She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series, under pen name J.D. Robb.
* She was born and lives in Maryland.
* She turned to writing when snowed in during a blizzard and published her first book in 1981.
😎You may also read a book set in Maryland or by an author who is from Maryland. You can also read any book published in the 1980s, OR a book shelved as suspense, OR a book that is written by an author who also has a pen name, OR a book that would be perfect to cuddle up with during a blizzard.
4. June 4th is Hug Your Cat Day: If you're a cat lover, you can really appreciate the warm, cozy feeling you get when you curl up on a couch or chair, and hug your cat.
😎Read a book with a hug or embrace on the cover, OR a book that features animals (shifters count!) in the storyline or on the cover, OR a book that makes you feel warm and cozy, like a hug.
5. June 8th is Best Friend Day: Best friends are very special people and they deserve to be celebrated. This is a day to really honour and cherish the relationship with your best friend.
😎Read a book that has best friends in the storyline, OR a friends to lovers romance OR a book with blue on the cover.
6. June 19 is National Kissing Day: The objective of this very special day, is to appreciate and enjoy a kiss. So, go ahead and swap some spit today. Pucker up and give out a big, juicy kiss to anyone and everyone (ok, maybe wait until social distancing is over).
😎Read a book with someone attractive on the cover, OR a book with a predominately pink/red cover, OR a book that includes the letters K I S S in the author's name, book title, or series title.
7. June 22 is World Rainforest Day: World Rainforest Day is a recently new special holiday. It was created in 2017 to raise awareness of the importance of rainforests around the world for the health of the Earth, and ultimately for your health, too. Rainforests are decreasing at an alarming rate. It is time to pay attention to this vital asset, and reverse the trend of shrinking rain forest areas.
😎Read a book with an outdoor scene on the cover, OR a book with a character who volunteers or is helpful in some way, OR a book published in 2017.
8. Flip Flop Day: Each year on the third Friday in June, it is National Flip Flop Day! Whether you call them thongs, plakkies, zories, sandals, clam diggers, slippers or flip flops - find them and wear them (though, maybe don't go outside if it's winter in your neck of the woods!)
😎Read a book with paws or feet visible on the cover, OR a book set in summer, OR a book with a 3 anywhere in the published date.
9. June 24 is International Fairy (or Faery) Day: Fantasy, imagination and a little bit of pixie dust come together on June 24th in honour of these tiny supernatural creatures that have captivated myth and legend for generations. In Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie wrote that when the first baby laughed, the laugh broke into a thousand pieces, and that was the beginning of fairies.
😎Read a book shelved paranormal/fantasy, OR a book with a mischievous character (your interpretation), OR a book that makes you laugh
10. Reader's Choice:
😎Read any book of your choice.
1. Temporary Dad - Lynne Marshall (Independently Published - June 2020) - June 4
2. Operation Second Chance - Justine Davis (HRS #2089 - May 2020) - June 24
5. The SEAL's Pregnant Ex - Leslie North (Amazon - May 2020) (blue on the cover) - June 2
6. Date of a Lifetime - Lynne Marshall (HSE #2759 - Apr 2020) - June 24
7. Duchesses in Disguise - Grace Burrowes, Susanna Ives, Emily Greenwood (Grace Burrowes Publishing - Mar 2017) - June 9
8. A Hero Comes Home - Sandra Hill (HarperCollins - Feb 2020) (summer) - June 12
9. The Beachcomber's Buccaneer Bounty - Kerry Evelyn (CPC Publishing - June 2020) - June 12
10. The Wolf and the Dove - Kathleen Woodiwiss (Avon - Mar 1974) - June 1
2020 July Monthly Challenge
1. Happy July Birthday!
🎆Read a book published in July, or read a book with red on the cover in honor of June's birthstone, the Ruby.
2. Flower of the Month - Larkspur: The Larkspur symbolizes Positivity, Dignity, and First Love.
🎆Read a YA book, or a book with a happy ending, or a book that is the first in a series (prequels count!)
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Sarah MacLean:
🎆Read one book written by Sarah MacLean or any author with her first or last name.
Link to Sarah MacLean's backlist - https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/1598076.Sarah_MacLean
Fun Facts about Sarah MacLean:
*She is the author of historical romance novels that have been translated into more than twenty languages.
* She lives in New York City
* Sarah is a graduate of Smith College & Harvard University
* She listens almost exclusively to classical music when she writes
🎆You may also read a book set in New York State, or by an author who is from New York State. You can also read a book with a character in college, or is shelved as Historical Romance or a book that is considered a 'classic' or a book you think will become a 'classic' in time.
4. National Blueberry Month
🎆Read a book with blue on the cover or a book with a character that is upset about something or a book that makes you cry.
5. National Picnic Month
🎆Read a book with an outdoor item on the cover (i.e. tree, street, sky) or a book with an outdoor scene in the story or a book with a character with a checkered past (they have done bad things or have been in trouble in the past).
6. July 1 - International Joke Day
🎆Read a humorous book or a book with a cover that makes you smile.
7. July 2 - I Forgot Day
🎆Read a book that has been lingering on your tbr or on your bookshelf for too long or a book with nothing on the cover but letters or words (no people, items, etc.)
8. July 5 - National Apple Turnover Day
🎆Read a book you would turn over in your bed and stay up late reading or a book with food in the story or on the cover.
9. July 12 - Different Colored Eyes Day
🎆Read a book that has more than one cover edition or a book with at least two different colors on the cover.
10. Reader's Choice:
🎆Read any book of your choice.2. New Year's Kiss - Darcy Devlon (CPC Publishing - July 2020) (first/Enchanted Kiss) - July 9
6. Vets Might Fly - James Herriot (Pan - Nov 1978) - July 30
8. K-9 Protector - Julie Miller (HI #1945 - Aug 2020) (stayed up) - July 19
2020 August Monthly Challenge
1. Happy August Birthday!:
🍧Read a book published in August, or read a book with green on the cover in honor of August's birthstone, the Peridot.
2. August Flowers of the Month - Gladiolus and Poppy: The August flowers of the month symbolize strength of character, faithfulness, integrity, and persistence.
🍧Read a book with a character you admire or written by an author you admire, or a book with the letter G or P in the title or author's first, middle or last name.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) author Helena Hunting :
🍧Read one book written by Helena Hunting or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Helena Hunting -
* Helena lives near Toronto, Canada
* She is a NYT and USA Today Bestselling author
* She writes Contemporary Romance and Romantic Comedies
* She loves hockey and popcorn
🍧You may also read a book set in Canada, or by an author who is from Canada. You can also read any book with an athletic character or a book with sports equipment or food on the cover, or a book shelved as Contemporary Romance.
4. August is National Catfish Month:
🍧Read a book where a character uses technology to communicate (i.e. computer, texting, cell phone call) or a book with mistaken identity or a deceptive character or a book with a misleading cover (i.e. it looked like it might be light and cute and turned out to be heavy and more serious).
5. August 1st- National Mountain Climbing Day:
🍧Read a book from your mountain of a tbr or a book that you have high hopes of enjoying.
6. August 2nd- Sisters Day:
🍧Read a book with siblings in the story or a book with a character that is a good friend or dependable or competitive in some way.
7. August 9th- Book Lover's Day:
🍧Read a book with a heart or book on the cover or a book you would love to share with someone because you expect to love it (i.e. great reviews, fave author, someone recommended it).
8. August 13- Left Hander's Day: Fun facts- Left-handed college graduates have a 26% greater chance of becoming rich. It is believed that all polar bears are left-handed.
🍧Read a book with a wealthy character or a book with an animal on the cover or in the story or a book with a 2 or 6 in the page count.
9. August 26-Women's Equality Day: Commemorates the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote.
🍧Read a book written by a woman author or a book with a woman on the cover or in the story or a book that has been voted on in any poll or any award competition or added or voted on in any list.
10. Reader's Choice:
🍧Read any book of your choice
1. Incognito Ex - Geri Krotow (HRS #2101 - Aug 2020) - Aug 4
2. A Forbidden Liaison with Miss Grant - Marguerite Kaye (HH#1525 - Sept 2020) (admire characters) - Aug 25
3. The Slow Burn - Caro Carson (HSE #2790 - Sept 2020) (contemporary romance) - Aug 31
4. The Last Man She Expected - Michelle Major (HSE #2786 - Sept 2020) (technology) - Aug 23
5. The Baby Proposal - Andrea Laurence (HD #2485 - Dec 2016) - Aug 10
6. Plain Refuge - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #826 - June 2020) (siblings) - Aug 2
6. Plain Refuge - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #826 - June 2020) (siblings) - Aug 2
8. A Reunion of Rivals - Reese Ryan (HD #2745 - July 2020) (wealthy character) - Aug 3
9. Tides & Treasures - Lynda Haviland (CPC Publishing - Aug 2020) - Aug 5
9. Tides & Treasures - Lynda Haviland (CPC Publishing - Aug 2020) - Aug 5
2020 September Monthly Challenge
1. Happy September Birthday!:
🍂 Read a book published in September, or read a book with blue on the cover in honor of September's birthstone, the Sapphire.
2. Flower of the Month – Aster: The Aster symbolizes Affection, Unrequited Love, and Wisdom.
🍂 Read a book with a character who uses sound judgement or life experiences to give advice or make a decision, or a book with a romantic couple who are affectionate with one another, or a book with a character who loves, or is loved, by another character that does not feel the same way.
🍂 You can also read a book with a star on its cover (the shape of an Aster’s flower head), a book with purple on its cover, a book written by an author whose first or last name begins with “A”, or a book with the letters A-S-T-E-R (in any order) in its title.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) – Lara Adrian:
2. Flower of the Month – Aster: The Aster symbolizes Affection, Unrequited Love, and Wisdom.
🍂 Read a book with a character who uses sound judgement or life experiences to give advice or make a decision, or a book with a romantic couple who are affectionate with one another, or a book with a character who loves, or is loved, by another character that does not feel the same way.
🍂 You can also read a book with a star on its cover (the shape of an Aster’s flower head), a book with purple on its cover, a book written by an author whose first or last name begins with “A”, or a book with the letters A-S-T-E-R (in any order) in its title.
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) – Lara Adrian:
🍂 Read one book written by Lara Adrian, or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Lara Adrian:
* Lara Adrian lives with her husband in New England
* She writes historical and paranormal romance novels
* Lara is a New York Times bestselling author
* Publishing as Tina St. John, she has twice been named a finalist for the RITA awards
* Lara is a descendant of Mayflower ship passenger Governor William Bradford
🍂 You may also read a book set in any New England state (Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Rhode Island), or by an author who is from a state in New England. You can also read a book by an author who is a New York Times bestseller or has been nominated for (or won) a RITA award, or a book where a character travels by boat.
4. World Letter Writing Day – September 1: This international holiday encourages people to grab a pen and write a letter to a friend or loved one. Receiving something other than junk mail is a rarity, so your letter can brighten someone’s day.
🍂 Read a book where someone writes or receives a physical letter or note. You can also read a book with paper or writing utensils on its cover, a book with horizontal lines or a cursive/script/handwritten font on its cover, or a book with a character who delivers mail or messages.
5. Day of Encouragement – September 12: Encourage and lift up those around you with positive or reassuring words during this national holiday.
🍂 Read a book with a character who makes a positive impact from their actions or celebrates an accomplishment, whether it’s their own or someone else’s. You can also read a book with a character that tries to motivate or inspire others, a book with an uplifting word in its title (your interpretation), or a book that you feel encouraged to read.
6. Day of the Programmer – September 13: On the 256th day of the year, the Day of the Programmer honors the innovators who continue to change the world, one program at a time. Nearly all aspects of our world benefit from the work of a programmer. This day is celebrated based on binary code (0s and 1s).
🍂 Read a book with a character who is a programmer or works in a technology-based field, or the character is made of, or has, some form on technology on/inside their body. You can also read an eBook; a book with some sort of technology, numbers, or a technological word on its cover; a book that is first in a series (book 1) or a prequel to a series (book 0); or a book with the numbers 2, 5, and 6 in any order in either its page count or release date.
7. Ghost Hunting Day – September 26: Ghost hunting invokes imagery of crumbling manors or abandoned shipwrecks, but not all ghosts are believed to reside in the dark, forgotten corners of the world. Ghost Hunting Day kicks off an annual investigation of the paranormal, whether it be of legendary or modern ghosts.
🍂 Read a book with a haunted location, a ghost, or some other paranormal spook in it, or read a book with a character “haunted” by the ghosts of their past. You can also read a book categorized on Goodreads as paranormal, a book with an eerie setting or cover art (your interpretation), or a book set in Kentucky – where the annual ScareFest celebrates National Ghost Hunting Day.
8. Fall Foliage Week: As the trees begin to turn beautiful hues of yellow, orange, and red, the season of autumn is ushered in by Fall Foliage Week.
🍂 Read a book with a character who enjoys nature, or spends time around trees or in a forest. You can also read a book with yellow, orange, or red on its cover; a book with leaves or trees on its cover; or a book set in autumn.
9. Classical Music Month: Classical music evolved over centuries and introduced the world to many famous composers, such as Vivaldi, Byrd, Bach, Mozart, and Chopin, and several musical periods: Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic. Though most music today differs greatly from the classical periods, its music lives on through talented orchestras around the world.
🍂 Read a book with a character who plays an instrument, listens to music, or goes to a concert. You can also read a book set in any year between 500AD (start of Medieval period) to 1910AD (end of Romantic period), a book with music notes or an instrument on its cover, a book with a word from musical terminology in its title or a book you read while listening to classical music.
10. Reader's Choice:
Fun Facts about Lara Adrian:
* Lara Adrian lives with her husband in New England
* She writes historical and paranormal romance novels
* Lara is a New York Times bestselling author
* Publishing as Tina St. John, she has twice been named a finalist for the RITA awards
* Lara is a descendant of Mayflower ship passenger Governor William Bradford
🍂 You may also read a book set in any New England state (Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Rhode Island), or by an author who is from a state in New England. You can also read a book by an author who is a New York Times bestseller or has been nominated for (or won) a RITA award, or a book where a character travels by boat.
4. World Letter Writing Day – September 1: This international holiday encourages people to grab a pen and write a letter to a friend or loved one. Receiving something other than junk mail is a rarity, so your letter can brighten someone’s day.
🍂 Read a book where someone writes or receives a physical letter or note. You can also read a book with paper or writing utensils on its cover, a book with horizontal lines or a cursive/script/handwritten font on its cover, or a book with a character who delivers mail or messages.
5. Day of Encouragement – September 12: Encourage and lift up those around you with positive or reassuring words during this national holiday.
🍂 Read a book with a character who makes a positive impact from their actions or celebrates an accomplishment, whether it’s their own or someone else’s. You can also read a book with a character that tries to motivate or inspire others, a book with an uplifting word in its title (your interpretation), or a book that you feel encouraged to read.
6. Day of the Programmer – September 13: On the 256th day of the year, the Day of the Programmer honors the innovators who continue to change the world, one program at a time. Nearly all aspects of our world benefit from the work of a programmer. This day is celebrated based on binary code (0s and 1s).
🍂 Read a book with a character who is a programmer or works in a technology-based field, or the character is made of, or has, some form on technology on/inside their body. You can also read an eBook; a book with some sort of technology, numbers, or a technological word on its cover; a book that is first in a series (book 1) or a prequel to a series (book 0); or a book with the numbers 2, 5, and 6 in any order in either its page count or release date.
7. Ghost Hunting Day – September 26: Ghost hunting invokes imagery of crumbling manors or abandoned shipwrecks, but not all ghosts are believed to reside in the dark, forgotten corners of the world. Ghost Hunting Day kicks off an annual investigation of the paranormal, whether it be of legendary or modern ghosts.
🍂 Read a book with a haunted location, a ghost, or some other paranormal spook in it, or read a book with a character “haunted” by the ghosts of their past. You can also read a book categorized on Goodreads as paranormal, a book with an eerie setting or cover art (your interpretation), or a book set in Kentucky – where the annual ScareFest celebrates National Ghost Hunting Day.
8. Fall Foliage Week: As the trees begin to turn beautiful hues of yellow, orange, and red, the season of autumn is ushered in by Fall Foliage Week.
🍂 Read a book with a character who enjoys nature, or spends time around trees or in a forest. You can also read a book with yellow, orange, or red on its cover; a book with leaves or trees on its cover; or a book set in autumn.
9. Classical Music Month: Classical music evolved over centuries and introduced the world to many famous composers, such as Vivaldi, Byrd, Bach, Mozart, and Chopin, and several musical periods: Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic. Though most music today differs greatly from the classical periods, its music lives on through talented orchestras around the world.
🍂 Read a book with a character who plays an instrument, listens to music, or goes to a concert. You can also read a book set in any year between 500AD (start of Medieval period) to 1910AD (end of Romantic period), a book with music notes or an instrument on its cover, a book with a word from musical terminology in its title or a book you read while listening to classical music.
10. Reader's Choice:
🍂 Read any book of your choice.
2. Cavanaugh Stakeout - Marie Ferrarella (HRS #2065 - Nov 2019) (advice/Andrew) - Sept 3
3. Home for the Baby's Sake - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2793 - Oct 2020) (RITA nominee) - Sept 16
4. The Scoundrel's Bartered Bride - Virginia Heath (HH #1513 - July 2020) (letter/note) - Sept 2
5. The Redemption of Rico D'Angelo - Michelle Douglas (HR #4397 - Oct 2013) - Sept 6
6. Secrets of a Playboy - Janice Maynard (HD #2748 - July 2020) (computer security) - Sept 11
7. The Girl Who Cried Murder - Paula Graves (HI #1675 - Nov 2016) (Kentucky) - Sept 24
8. One Night with Her Brooding Bodyguard - Cara Colter (HR #4729 - Sept 2020) - Sept 10
9. Bringing Down the Duke - Evie Dunmore (Berkley - Sept 2019) - Sept 12
10. Happily This Christmas - Susan Mallery (HQN - Oct 2020) - Sept 17
2. Cavanaugh Stakeout - Marie Ferrarella (HRS #2065 - Nov 2019) (advice/Andrew) - Sept 3
3. Home for the Baby's Sake - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2793 - Oct 2020) (RITA nominee) - Sept 16
4. The Scoundrel's Bartered Bride - Virginia Heath (HH #1513 - July 2020) (letter/note) - Sept 2
5. The Redemption of Rico D'Angelo - Michelle Douglas (HR #4397 - Oct 2013) - Sept 6
6. Secrets of a Playboy - Janice Maynard (HD #2748 - July 2020) (computer security) - Sept 11
7. The Girl Who Cried Murder - Paula Graves (HI #1675 - Nov 2016) (Kentucky) - Sept 24
8. One Night with Her Brooding Bodyguard - Cara Colter (HR #4729 - Sept 2020) - Sept 10
9. Bringing Down the Duke - Evie Dunmore (Berkley - Sept 2019) - Sept 12
10. Happily This Christmas - Susan Mallery (HQN - Oct 2020) - Sept 17
2020 October Monthly Challenge
1. Happy October Birthday! :
🎃Read a book published in October, or read a book with a colorful/multi-colored cover in honor of October's birthstone, the Opal.
2. Flower of the Month - Marigold: The Marigold symbolizes Creativity, Passion, and a Drive to Succeed.
🎃Read a book with a mostly yellow or mostly orange cover or read a book with an artist or artistic character (they are creative, passionate, & have the drive to succeed)
3. Featured Author Challenge (FAC) - Meghan March:
🎃Read one book written by Meghan March, or any author with her first or last name.
Fun Facts about Meghan March:
* Meghan March lives in the Pacific Northwest
* She used to be a corporate lawyer
* She has over 30 titles published
🎃You may also read a book set in the Pacific Northwest. You can also read a book with a lawyer in it or with a character who has changed occupations (with no regrets!)
4. October is National Seafood Month:
🎃Read a book that has a "fishy" character (suspicious or other-worldly such as a mermaid, selkie, etc.). You can also read a book with a character involved in the food industry or a book with water on the cover.
5. October 2nd is World Smile Day:
🎃Read a book that you know will make you smile or you know will make you happy. You can also read a book that has a person smiling on the cover, or read a book that has a title that starts with S, M, I, L, or E. Don't forget to smile today! :)
6. October 10th is International Newspaper Carrier Day:
🎃Read a book that has someone carrying the news to someone else, be it through the written way (emails, letters, texts) or by speech (phone calls). You can also read a book that has some type of miscommunication or read a book that has the numbers 1 and 0 in their published date.
7. October 13th is International Skeptics Day:
🎃Read a book that you're not sure you're going to like (and let us know the outcome). You can also read a book that has a skeptical character, or read a book with a page count that has the numbers: 1, 0, or 3.
8. October 25th is Punk for a Day Day:
🎃Let's celebrate Punk Rock by reading a book about musicians, bonus points if they are rockstars- even more bonus points if they are punk rockstars. You can also read a book that includes the letters P U N K or R O C K in the author's name, book title, or series title.
9. October 31st is Halloween:
🎃Read a book with a holiday theme, bonus points if it's Halloween. You can also read a book in the following genres: mystery, thriller, or suspense. You can also read a book with a costumed person in the cover.
10. Reader's Choice:
🎃Read any book of your choice.
3. Bachelor Unleashed - Brenda Jackson (HK #213 - Dec 2010) (lawyer) - Oct 6
4. Bachelor Undone - Brenda Jackson (HK #261 - Dec 2011) (water) - Oct 11
8.
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