Tuesday, January 1, 2013

2012 Challenges (End of Year Update)

These are the challenges I completed in 2012:


2012 New Authors Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Literary Escapism


I chose level one: 15 new authors.

3) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
4) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
5) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
6) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
7) Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
8) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
9) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
10) Persuasion: A Latter-Day Tale by Rebecca H. Jamison
11) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz
12) Sixty Acres and A Bride by Regina Jennings
13) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié
14) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
15) Chasing Clovers by Kat Flannery
16) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
17) Lilac Wedding in Dry Creek by Janet Tronstad
18) Summer of Secrets by Charlotte Hubbard
19) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
20) Sarai by Jill Eileen Smith
21) Gallagher's Pride by M.K. McClintock
22) Fracture by Megan Miranda
23) Until Next Time by Amy Lignor
24) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes by Ermisenda Alvarez
25) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson by Eliabeth Hawthorne
26) Dinner with Lisa by R. L. Prendergast
27) Perfection by Joel M. Andre 
28) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
29) The Wedding Journey by Cheryl St. John
30) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
31) Titanic 2012 by Bill Walker
32) Killer Bytes by Alan Williams
33) Silver by Talia Vance
34) The Dublin Destiny by Jill Twigg
35) Expecting by Lula Belle
36) Her Restless Heart by Barbara Cameron
37) Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins
38) Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer
39) The Pursuit of Lucy Banning by Olivia Newport
40) Love Finds You in Bethlehem, Hew Hampshire by Lauralee Bliss
41) Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick
42) The Fall of Satan by Bodie Hodge
43) Knowing by Tammy Hill
44) A Life in Time and Space by Nigel Goodall

45) Angel Eyes by Shannon Dittemore
46) If the Dress Fits by Debby Mayne
47) First Born by James Goss
48) Adele by Chas Newkey
49) The Earl's Mistaken Bride by Abby Gaines
50) Anything Goes by John Barrowman
51) Once Upon a Secret by Mimi Alford
52) Her Rebel Heart by Shannon Farrington
53) The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
54) Betrayal and Forgiveness by Linda Armstrong-Miller
55) XVI by Julia Karr
56) The Vow by Kim and Krickett Carpenter
57) Knee Deep by Jolene Perry
58) The Girl's Still Got It by Liz Curtis Higgs
59) The Gifted by Ann H. Gabhart
60) The Clockwise Man by Justin Richards
61) Mindful of Him by Hollis Hughes
62) The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn by Liz Johnson
63) Last Wish of Summer by Phillip Overton
64) The Bridal Swap by Karen Kirst
65) Matt Smith: The Biography by Emily Herbert
66) Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier
67) The Stone Rose by Jacqueline Rayner
68) Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
69) The Baron's Governess Bride by Deborah Hale
70) Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund
71) Stealers of Dreams by Steve Lyons
72) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
73) Twang by Julie L.Cannon
74) Turnabout's Fair Play by Kaye Dacus
75) The Road to Mercy by Kathy Harris
76) Queen of the Waves by Janice Thompson
77) Touched by an Angel by Jonathan Morris
78) Mail Order Cowboy by Laurie Kingery
79) A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
80) Mother of Pearl by Kellie Coates Gilbert
81) Always the Baker, Never the Bride by Sandra D. Bricker
82) Hereafter by Tara Hudson  
83) Jeremy's Christmas Journey by Scott A. Johnson
84) Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh
85) Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz
86) Placebo by Steven James
87) Susanna's Christmas Wish by Jerry Eicher
88) The Betrayal by Sheila Hendrix
89) The Christmas Star by Ace Collins 
90) Maelyn by Anita Valle
91) Before the Scarlet Dawn by Rita Gerlach
92) Gentleman of Her Dreams by Jen Turano
93) No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig
94) Every Last One by Anna Quindlen
95) Courting Cate by Leslie Gould
96) Borrowed Time by Naomi A. Alderman
97) The Winds of Sonoma by Nikki Arana
98) The Pregnancy Project by Gaby Rodriguez with Jenna Glatzer
99) Wishing Well by Trevor Baxendale
100) The Story of Martha by Dan Abnett


2012 Young Adult Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: The Eclectic Bookshelf

I chose level one: The Mini YA Reading Challenge – Read 12 Young Adult novels.

2) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
3) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
4) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz
5) Unfurl by Cidney Swanson
6) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié
7) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
8) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
9) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
10) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
11) Fracture by Megan Miranda
12) Until Next Time by Amy Lignor
13) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes by Ermisenda Alvarez
14) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson by Eliabeth Hawthorne
15) The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
16) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
17) Silver by Talia Vance
18) Expecting by Lula Belle
19) Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins
20) Knowing by Tammy Hill 
21) Angel Eyes by Shannon Dittemore
22) First Born by James Goss
23) The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
24) XVI by Julia Karr
25) Knee Deep by Jolene Perry
26) The Clockwise Man by Justin Richards
27) Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier
28) The Stone Rose by Jacqueline Rayner
29) Stealers of Dreams by Steve Lyons
30) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
31) Touched by an Angel by Jonathan Morris
32) A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
33) Casade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
34) Hereafter by Tara Hudson  
35) Torrent by Lisa Tawn Bergren
36) The Betrayal by Sheila Hendrix
37) Finally & Forever by Robin Jones Gunn
38) Maelyn by Anita Valle
39) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
40) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
41) Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
42) Borrowed Time by Naomi A. Alderman
43) The Pregnancy Project by Gaby Rodriguez with Jenna Glatzer
44) Wishing Well by Trevor Baxendale
45) The Story of Martha by Dan Abnett
46) The Resurrection Casket by Justin Richards
47) Sapphire Blue by Kerstin Gier


2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge
2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: The Book Vixen

I chose level two: Out of breath – Read 6–10 more books.

In 2011 I read exactly 100 books. In 2012 I read 177 new books and reread 5 books, so I outdid myself by 82!
2012 Ebook Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Workaday Reads

I chose level two: CD - 10 ebooks.

2) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
3) 101 Things You Thought You Knew About The Titanic...But Didn't! by Tim Maltin
4) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
5) Chasing Clovers by Kat Flannery
6) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
7) Gallagher's Pride by M.K. McClintock
8) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
9) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
10) Until Next Time by Amy Lignor
11) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes by Ermisenda Alvarez
12) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson by Eliabeth Hawthorne
13) Perfection by Joel M. Andre
14) Brutal by Joel M. Andre
15) Killer Bytes by Alan Williams
16) Silver by Talia Vance
17) Expecting by Lula Belle
18) Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins
19) Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer
20) Along Wooded Paths by Tricia Goyer
21) A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan
22) Knowing by Tammy Hill
23) Anything Goes by John Barrowman
24) Once Upon a Secret by Mimi Alford
25) The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
26) Gallagher's Hope by MK McClintock
27) Last Wish of Summer by Phillip Overton
28) Turnabout's Fair Play by Kaye Dacus
29) Mail Order Cowboy by Laurie Kingery
30) A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
31) A Light in the Window by Julie Lessman
32) Hereafter by Tara Hudson
33) Jeremy's Christmas Journey by Scott A. Johnson
34) Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh
35) The Betrayal by Sheila Hendrix
36) Married by Mistake by Abby Gaines
37) Maelyn by Anita Valle
38) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
39) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
40) The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden
41) Gentleman of Her Dreams by Jen Turano
42) Wedding Belles by Janice Hanna
43) The Winds of Sonoma by Nikki Arana


2012 Mount TBR Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: My Reader's Block

I chose level one: Pike's Peak - 12 books.

1) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
2) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
3) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
4) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
5) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
6) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
7) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
8) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Schultz 
9) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié
10) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
11) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
12) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
13) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
14) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
15) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
16) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
17) The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
18) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
19) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
20) River's Song by Melody Carlson
21) Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer
22) A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan
23) A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad
24) Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
25) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
26) The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund
27) Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
28) Always the Baker, Never the Bride by Sandra D. Bricker
29) Kiss of Night by Debbie Viguié
30) Torrent by Lisa Tawn Bergren
31) Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz
32) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
33) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
34) Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
35) The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden
36) The Winds of Sonoma by Nikki Arana



2012 TBR Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Evie from Bookish and several others.

I chose level two: A Friendly Hug - 11 to 20 books.



1) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
2) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
3) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
4) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
5) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
6) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
7) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
8) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Schultz 
9) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié 
10) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
11) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
12) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
13) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
14) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
15) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
16) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
17) The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
18) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
19) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
20) River's Song by Melody Carlson
21) Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer
22) A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan
23) A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad
24) Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
25) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
26) The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund
27) Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
28) Always the Baker, Never the Bride by Sandra D. Bricker
29) Kiss of Night by Debbie Viguié
30) Torrent by Lisa Tawn Bergren
31) Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz
32) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
33) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
34) Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
35) The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden
36) The Winds of Sonoma by Nikki Arana


Photobucket
2012 Just For Fun Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book


I am committing to read just one book for fun each month!

NOVEMBER: Kiss of Death by Debbie Viguié 
DECEMBER: The Resurrection Casket by Justin Richards


2012 Off The Shelf Challenge
January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Bookish Ardour


I am choosing level one: Tempted - Choose 5 books to read

1) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
2) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
3) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
4) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
5) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
6) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
7) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
8) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Schultz 
9) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié 
10) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
11) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
12) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
13) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
14) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
15) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
16) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
17) The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
18) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
19) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
20) River's Song by Melody Carlson
21) Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer
22) A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan
23) A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad
24) Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
25) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
26) The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund
27) Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
28) Always the Baker, Never the Bride by Sandra D. Bricker
29) Kiss of Night by Debbie Viguié
30) Torrent by Lisa Tawn Bergren
31) Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz
32) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
33) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
34) Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
35) The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden
36) The Winds of Sonoma by Nikki Arana


2012 Contentment Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Legacy of a Writer

The level that I am choosing is: Floating: 5 books.
1) The Stone Rose by Jacqueline Rayner
2) A Passion Denied by Julie Lessman
3) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
4) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
5) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer



2012 Historical Fiction Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012

I am choosing Severe Bookaholism: 20 books
3) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
4) The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer
5) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
6) Hearts That Survive by Yvonne Lehman
7) Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland
8) Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
9) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
10) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
11) Ellie's Haven by Sharlene MacLaren
12) Sixty Acres and A Bride by Regina Jennings
13) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
14) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
15) Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love
16) Sarai by Jill Eileen Smith
17) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
18) Gallagher's Pride by M. K. McClintock
19) Dinner with Lisa by R. L. Prendergast
20) Brides of the West by Victoria Bylin, Janet Dean, and Pamela Nissen
21) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
22) The Wedding Journey by Cheryl St. John
23) Mistaken Bride by Renee Ryan
24) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
25) River's Song by Melody Carlson
26) The Pursuit of Lucy Banning by Olivia Newport

27) Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick
28) A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan
29) A Love Forbidden by Kathleen Morgan
30) A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad
31) The Ride of Her Life by Lorna Seilstad
32) The Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer
33) Mary Magdalene by Diana Wallis Taylor
34) The Earl's Mistaken Bride by Abby Gaines
35)  Her Rebel Heart by Shannon Farrington
36) A Baby Bewtween Them by Winnie Griggs
37) The Gifted by Ann H. Gabhart
38) Too Rich For a Bride by Mona Hodgson
39) The Marshal Takes a Bride by Renee Ryan
40) Gallagher's Hope by MK McClintock
41) The Bridal Swap by Karen Kirst
42) The Stone Rose by Jacqueline Rayner
43) Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
44) The Baron's Governess Bride by Deborah Hale
45) Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund
46) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
47) With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin
48) Taming the Wind by Tracie Peterson
49) The Bride Wore Blue by Mona Hodsgon
50) The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund
51) Queen of the Waves by Janice Thompson
52) Mail Order Cowboy by Laurie Kingery
53) A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
54) An Irish Christmas by Melody Carlson
55) The Doctor Takes a Wife by Laurie Kingery
56) Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
57) A Light in the Window by Julie Lessman
58) Torrent by Lisa Tawn Bergren
59) Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh
60) Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz
61) The Christmas Star by Ace Collins 
62) Maelyn by Anita Valle
63) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
64) Before the Scarlet Dawn by Rita Gerlach
65) Beside Two Rivers by Rita Gerlach
66) Christmas Roses by Amanda Cabot
67) A Passion Denied by Julie Lessman
68) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
69) The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden
70) Gentleman of Her Dreams by Jen Turano
71) No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig
72) Against the Tide by Elizabeth Camden
73) Wedding Belles by Janice Hanna




Photobucket
2012 Historical Romance Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Romance Book Junkies


3) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
4) The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer
5) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
6) Hearts That Survive by Yvonne Lehman
7) Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland
8) Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
9) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
10) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
11) Ellie's Haven by Sharlene MacLaren
12) Sixty Acres and A Bride by Regina Jennings
13) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
14) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
15) Beauty for Ashes by Dorothy Love
16) Sarai by Jill Eileen Smith
17) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
18) Gallagher's Pride by M. K. McClintock
19) Dinner with Lisa by R. L. Prendergast
20) Brides of the West by Victoria Bylin, Janet Dean, and Pamela Nissen
21) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
22) The Wedding Journey by Cheryl St. John
23) Mistaken Bride by Renee Ryan
24) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
25) River's Song by Melody Carlson
26) The Pursuit of Lucy Banning by Olivia Newport

27) Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick
28) A Heart Divided by Kathleen Morgan
29) A Love Forbidden by Kathleen Morgan
30) A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad
31) The Ride of Her Life by Lorna Seilstad
32) The Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer
33) Mary Magdalene by Diana Wallis Taylor
34) The Earl's Mistaken Bride by Abby Gaines
35)  Her Rebel Heart by Shannon Farrington
36) A Baby Bewtween Them by Winnie Griggs
37) The Gifted by Ann H. Gabhart
38) Too Rich For a Bride by Mona Hodgson
39) The Marshal Takes a Bride by Renee Ryan
40) Gallagher's Hope by MK McClintock
41) The Bridal Swap by Karen Kirst
42) The Stone Rose by Jacqueline Rayner
43) Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott
44) The Baron's Governess Bride by Deborah Hale
45) Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund
46) Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergren
47) With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin
48) Taming the Wind by Tracie Peterson
49) The Bride Wore Blue by Mona Hodsgon
50) The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund
51) Queen of the Waves by Janice Thompson
52) Mail Order Cowboy by Laurie Kingery
53) A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
54) An Irish Christmas by Melody Carlson
55) The Doctor Takes a Wife by Laurie Kingery
56) Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren
57) A Light in the Window by Julie Lessman
58) Torrent by Lisa Tawn Bergren
59) Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh
60) Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz
61) The Christmas Star by Ace Collins 
62) Maelyn by Anita Valle
63) Bourne by Lisa Tawn Bergren
64) Before the Scarlet Dawn by Rita Gerlach
65) Beside Two Rivers by Rita Gerlach
66) Christmas Roses by Amanda Cabot
67) A Passion Denied by Julie Lessman
68) Tributary by Lisa Tawn Bergren
69) The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden
70) Gentleman of Her Dreams by Jen Turano
71) No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig
72) Against the Tide by Elizabeth Camden
73) Wedding Belles by Janice Hanna


2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Cat's Thoughts

The level I am choosing is:

Level 4 - Read 37+ library books

1) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
2) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
3) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
4) Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
5) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
6) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz
7) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié
8) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
9) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
10) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
11) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
12) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
13) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
14) Fracture by Megan Miranda
15) The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
16) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
17) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn
18) First Born by James Goss

19) The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
20) XVI by Julia Karr
21) The Clockwise Man by Justin Richards
22) Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier
23) The Stone Rose by Jacqueline Rayner
24) Stealers of Dreams by Steve Lyons
25) Touched by an Angel by Jonathan Morris
26) A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray
27) Finally & Forever by Robin Jones Gunn
28) Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
29) Borrowed Time by Naomi A. Alderman
30) The Pregnancy Project by Gaby Rodriguez with Jenna Glatzer
31) Wishing Well by Trevor Baxendale
32) The Story of Martha by Dan Abnett
33) The Resurrection Casket by Justin Richards
34) Sapphire Blue by Kerstin Gier
35) The Vow by Kim and Krickett Carpenter
36) Adele: The Biography by Chas Newkey-Burden
37) A Life in Time and Space by Nigel Goodall



2012 "Bucket List" Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
The Level I am choosing is:

The Pick Up level - 12 "bucket" list books


1) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
2) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
3) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
4) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
5) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
6) Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
7) Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
8) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Schultz 
9) Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié 
10) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
11) The Proper Wife by Winnie Griggs
12) Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
13) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
14) The Betrayal by Diane Noble
15) Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
16) Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer
17) The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer
18) Martha by Diana Wallis Taylor
19) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn


2012 Ireland Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012-November 30, 2012
Hosted by: Books and Movies

The level that I am choosing is...

Luck o’ the Irish level: 6 books
1) Chasing Clovers by Kat Flannery
2) Until Next Time by Amy Lignor
3) The Wedding Journey by Cheryl St. John
4) Mistaken Bride by Renee Ryan
5) Silver by Talia Vance
6) The Dublin Destiny by Jill Twigg
7) A Baby Between Them by Winnie Griggs
8) No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig




Bookie Friends Favorites Challenge
2012 Bookie Friends Favorites Challenge
January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012

Here are the books I am choosing and where they are from:
1) Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren (Christian Bookshelf Reviews)
2) Cascade by Lisa T. Bergren (Christian Bookshelf Reviews)
3) Torrent by Lisa T. Bergren (Christian Bookshelf Reviews)
4) Bourne by Lisa T. Bergren (Christian Bookshelf Reviews)
5) Tributary by Lisa T. Bergren (Christian Bookshelf Reviews)




2012 Where Are You Reading? Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Book Journey

Here is my map:





Reading Challenge Addict
2012 Reading Challenge Addict Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012

The level I am choosing is:

Out of This World: 16+ Challenges (Entered & Completed)

1) 2012 New Authors Challenge
2) 2012 Young Adult Reading Challenge
3) 2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge
4) 2012 Ebook Challenge
5) 2012 Mount TBR Reading Challenge
6) 2012 TBR Reading Challenge
7) 2012 Just For Fun Reading Challenge
8) 2012 Off The Shelf Challenge
9) 2012 Contentment Reading Challenge
10) 2012 Historical Fiction Reading Challenge
11) 2012 Historical Romance Challenge
12) 2012 Support Your Local Library Challenge
13) 2012 "Bucket List" Reading Challenge
14) 2012 Ireland Reading Challenge
15) 2012 Bookie Friends Favorites Challenge
16) 2012 Where Are You Reading? Challenge




These are the challenges I didn't complete:


50 States Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Book Obsessed


Alabama:
Alaska: 
Arizona: 
Arkansas: The Christmas Star by Ace Collins
California: Stalker in the Shadows by Camy Tang
Colorado: Seeds of Discovery by Breeana Puttroff
Connecticut:
Delaware:
Florida: The Heart's Journey by Barbara Cameron
Georgia: Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
Hawaii: 
Idaho: Mother of Pearl by Kellie Coates Gilbert
Illinois: The Pursuit of Lucy Banning by Olivia Newport
Indiana: Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren
Iowa: A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad
Kansas: Heartland Wedding by Renee Ryan
Kentucky: Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins
Louisiana:
Maine: Fracture by Megan Miranda
Maryland: Her Rebel Heart by Shannon Farrington
Massachusetts: The Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden
Michigan: The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
Minnesota:
Mississippi:
Missouri: Summer of Secrets by Charlotte Hubbard
Montana: The Accidental Bride by Denise Hunter
Nebraska: 
Nevada: 
New Hampshire: Love Finds You in Bethlehem, New Hampshire by Lauralee Bliss
New Jersey:
New Mexico:
New York: Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz
North Carolina: 
North Dakota: Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland
Ohio: Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
Oklahoma: Hereafter by Tara Hudson
Oregon: River's End by Melody Carlson
Pennsylvania: Her Restless Heart by Barbara Cameron
Rhode Island:
South Carolina:
South Dakota:
Tennessee: Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love
Texas: Sixty Acres and A Bride by Regina Jennings
Utah: Betrayal by Diane Noble
Vermont:
Virginia: Persuasion: A Latter-Day Tale by Rebecca H. Jamison
Washington: Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
West Virginia:
Wisconsin: Expecting by Lula Belle
Wyoming: Brides of the West by Victoria Bylin, Janet Dean, and Pamela Nissen



2012 Christian Suspense Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Christian Bookshelf Reviews

I chose level two: Sergeant - 10 to 15 Christian Suspense books.


1) Stalker in the Shadows by Camy Tang
2) The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn by Liz Johnson
3) Placebo by Steven James
4) No Safe Harbor by Elizabeth Ludwig

2012 A Classics Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: November's Autumn.

The Challenge:

Read seven works of Classic Literature in 2012
Only three of the seven may be re-reads



2012 Back To The Classics Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012

Read one book in each of the following categories:
  • Any 19th Century Classic:
  • Any 20th Century Classic:
  • Reread a classic of your choice:
  • A Classic Play:
  • Classic Mystery/Horror/Crime Fiction:
  • Classic Romance:
  • Read a Classic that has been translated from its original language to your languange:  
  • Classic Award Winner:
  • Read a Classic set in a Country that you (realistically speaking) will not visit during your lifetime:

2012 What's in a Name 5 Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Beth Fish Reads.


Read one book in each of the following categories:
  1. A book with a topographical feature (land formation) in the title: Lilac Wedding in Dry Creek by Janet Tronstad
  2. A book with something you'd see in the sky in the title:  Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer
  3. A book with a creepy crawly in the title: 
  4. A book with a type of house in the title:  Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
  5. A book with something you'd carry in your pocket, purse, or backpack in the title:  Midnight Pearls by Debbie Viguié
  6. A book with a something you'd find on a calendar in the title:   Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland

Explore the Many Genres of Jane Austen Spinoffs 2012 Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Existing's Tricky

Here are my book selections:

1. Variation Stories: His Good Opinion by Nancy Kelley
2. Sequel: The Darcys of Pemberley by Shannon Winslow
3. Jane Austen as a Fictional Character: Just Jane by Nancy Moser
4. Paranormal: Mr. Darcy, Vampyre by Amanda Grange
5. Modern Adaptation: Persuasion: A Latter-Day Tale by Rebecca H. Jamison ~ Finished 2/5
6. Mystery: Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James ~ Finished 1/27
7. Supporting Characters: Caroline Bingley by Jennifer Becton
8. Books by Jane Austen: Pride & Prejudice


2012 A-Z Book Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Babies, Books, & Signs

A) The Accidental Bride by Denise Hunter
B) Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
C) The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer
D) Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
E) Ellie's Haven by Sharlene MacLaren
F) Frankly My Dear, I'm Dead by Livia J. Washburn
G) The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
H) Hearts That Survive by Yvonne Lehman
I) If the Dress Fits by Debby Mayne
J) Jeremy's Christmas Journey by Scott Johnson
K) Killer Bytes by Alan Williams
L) The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis
N) New Moon by Stephenie Meyer
O) One Chance in a Million by Cathy Marie Hake
P) Paradise Valley by Dale Cramer
Q) Queen of the Waves by Janice Thompson
T) Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
U) Unfurl by Cidney Swanson
V) The Vow by Kim Carpenter
W) The Wedding Journey by Cheryl St. John
X) XVI by Julia Karr
Y)
Z)



2012 Titanic 100th Anniversary Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: Back to Books

The level I am choosing is:

Going Down With the Ship: read or watch a combination of 12 (twelve) Titanic related material

1) Hearts That Survive by Yvonne Lehman
2) 101 Things You Thought You Knew About The Titanic...But Didn't! by Tim Maltin
3) Titanic 2012 by Bill Walker



2012 ARC Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012- December 31, 2012
Hosted by: The Eclectic Bookshelf

The Level I am choosing is:

The Mega size ARC Challenge – Read 21+ ARC's

1) The Accidental Bride by Denise Hunter
2) Ellie's Haven by Sharlene MacLaren
3) Persuasion: A Latter-Day Tale by Rebecca H. Jamison
4) Unfurl by Cidney Swanson
5) Chasing Clovers by Kat Flannery
6) Gallagher's Pride by M. K. McClintock
7) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Leocardo Reyes by Ermisenda Alvarez
8) Blind Sight: Through the Eyes of Aniela Dawson by Eliabeth Hawthorne
9) Perfection by Joel M. Andre
10) Brutal by Joel M. Andre
11) Silver by Talia Vance
12) Expecting by Lula Belle
13) The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis
14) Gallagher's Hope by MK McClintock
15) Last Wish of Summer by Phillip Overton
16) Turnabout's Fair Play by Kaye Dacus
17) A Light in the Window by Julie Lessman
18) Jeremy's Christmas Journey by Scott A. Johnson
19) The Betrayal by Sheila Hendrix


2012 War Through the Generations Reading Challenge
January 1, 2012-December 31, 2012
Hosted by: War Through the Generations

The level that I am choosing is...

Wade: Read 4-10 books in any genre with WWI as a primary or secondary theme.

1) Water Song by Suzanne Weyn



Blogaholic Designs”=

Friday, December 14, 2012

How Real is ROSEMARY? (Guest Post by Naomi King)

Jim Smith, my research source from the Old Order Amish colony of Jamesport, MO, told me an interesting story last week—a glimpse into how real-life Amish perceive these Amish books so many of us are reading and writing these days. My books have been for sale in the Christian bookstore in Jamesport, but apparently the owner, Joe Burkholder, was dissuaded from stocking any more of them because his mother found my stories upsetting. She didn’t like it that I had an unwed mother in one book, and an arrogant Bishop keeping secrets, because those kinds of folks aren’t supposed to exist among the Amish. Bishops can do no wrong. Girls don’t have sex before they get married. 

Ah, you say, but they can and they do! If you’ve followed the story of the rogue bishop Sam Mullet and the hair/beard cutting attacks in Ohio, you realize just how power can corrupt any leader, and how far believers will go to stay true to their faith. The Amish, like the rest of us, are human…but they don’t want their shortcomings and sins published for the rest of the world to read about. 

Joe, however, has called me to order a bunch more of my books for his store. Jim says he got around his mother’s objections by saying, “It’s a novel. Readers understand that.” 

What a perfect answer!

And it brings up the related question: how much of Amish fiction is true-to-life, and how much is romanticized? Most of us picture life without cell phones, computers, cars, and electricity as much more idyllic than the way we live—we don’t want to give up our conveniences, but we sure would like the simpler countryside lifestyle where families gather around the table for every meal and neighbor helps neighbor and we’re not bombarded by computer-generated phone calls, political ads, and rush hour traffic.

I suspect that most women readers would not be as submissive to their husbands as the Old Order faith requires, either. And I suspect that while most readers compliment me for having strong Amish heroines who don’t play doormat to their men, those ladies might not be so headstrong or bold in real Amish life. But many of the things Abby Lambright, Miriam Lantz—and now Rosemary Yutzy—do are based upon what I’ve found to hold true for someone in Jamesport.

In ROSEMARY OPENS HER HEART, for instance, Rosemary has chosen to live with her father-in-law Titus after her husband Joe is killed in a hunting accident. Because most Amish women are dependent upon men—and because the men take care of sisters, aunts, and other unmarried or widowed women in their family—this is accurate. While Rosemary could have lived with her widowed mother and unmarried sister, she chose instead to help Titus with his household and his twelve-year-old daughter Beth Ann, who have lost their wife/mom. Rosemary is preserving Joe’s family this way, an honorable way to spend her life.

It’s also true that everyone Rosemary knows would insist that she should remarry—if only to give her toddler Katie a father. Rosemary has other ideas, however! Even if Matt Lambright is sincere and earnest (and good-looking!) she can’t yet let go of her past with Joe. She has a dream of supporting herself by baking pies—a very authentic Amish way for unmarried women to earn money—and she realizes that her dream will go by the wayside if she remarries.

Rosemary also has an option a lot of widows don’t: when Joe died, they had a piece of paid-for property where they planned to build a home of their own. (Most young Amish couples live with either her parents or his until they can afford a house. Joe and Rosemary lived in her mom’s house). Rosemary uses this property as leverage when Titus insists she move to Cedar Creek with him—and it plays into Matt’s fantasies about moving to Queen City to be with Rosemary, too. Rather than allow this piece of land to melt into Titus’s estate when he sells out, she insists on being paid fair market value for it. Here again, submission is not Rosemary’s cup of tea, and in real Amish life she might not get away with such an independent mindset.

A lot of folks—my editor included—have the notion that all Amish properties are postcard-perfect, all homes are neat as a pin, all children are well-behaved, and all families are loving and supportive. Well…a drive through the Missouri countryside in Plain areas will show you that “stuff” gets piled around some of their homes, some of which could use a coat of paint. Not everyone can afford upkeep on their buildings—and not everyone considers it a priority, much the same as in any neighborhood.
And the kids? Well, Katie is three and she loves to run off the moment Rosemary turns her back. Amish children are indeed more strictly disciplined than non-Amish kids (they are raised with the same “spare the rod and spoil the child” attitude I and folks older than I grew up with. So yes, those kids get spankings and it’s not considered child abuse. It’s good, preventive parenting.)

Still, little kids will test their limits. Katie drives the story by being her winsome, curious, playful self, and the way Matt immediately takes to her—and must sternly insist that she stop running off, because she could get hurt by his sheep—turns the tide for Rosemary. The fact that he encourages her to buy a fine new oven for baking her pies is an even bigger point in his favor.

So I feel I’ve done my research, and I’ve done a credible job of presenting my Amish characters in all their triumphs, tragedies, and mistakes. But yes, there are aspects of my stories that are not quite Old Order Amish because, well—Joe Burkholder said it best. “It’s a novel. Readers will understand that.”


I hope you’ll enjoy ROSEMARY OPENS HER HEART, and check out the other books on my website, as well. You can also sign up for my newsletter there, and find recipes, excerpts, and other interesting tidbits! www.NaomiKingAuthor.com. If you care to, you can Friend me on Facebook as Charlotte Hubbard and Like my Naomi C. King author page. Thanks so much for your interest in my stories!






ABOUT ROSEMARY OPENS HER HEART:


Another spring reminds the Amish of Cedar Creek, Missouri,
that for everything there is a season.

Zanna Lambright is finally marrying Jonny Ropp, and friends and family have come from far and wide to celebrate. Among them is young widow Rosemary Yutzy, mother of toddler Katie, whose husband was tragically killed last fall. With a willing heart Rosemaryhas taken over care of her in-law’s family and continued to run a baked goods business from home, but privately she still mourns her lost Joe…and is unprepared for the changes that are coming…

Rosemary’s father-in-law wants to merge his lamb-raising business with Matt Lambright’s—a move that will require the Yutzys to relocate from their nearby town to Cedar Creek. Moreoever, it will bring Rosemary into constant contact with Matt, who is making no secret of his romantic interest in her. The challenges of contemplating a future unlike any she expected are overwhelming forRosemary. And although Matt is strong and kind, his courtship is so persistent, she often wants to run the other way. AsRosemary struggles to see beyond her immediate joys and sorrows, will she embrace the outpouring of welcome and support from the people of Cedar Creek…and accept this new chance to open her heart to a more abundant life?




Blogaholic Designs”=

Purrs of Wisdom: Conscious Living Feline Style (Book Spotlight & Giveaway)


Purrs of Wisdom is a collection of essays featuring lessons in conscious living, inspired by the cats who have shared the author’s life. From help with every day challenges to inspiration on living a joyful life, this compilation provides encouragement, guidance, and enlightenment, feline style. Whether it’s creating balance, navigating turbulent times, or finding the magic in life’s ordinary moments, there’s something for everyone in this book.

Chapters include:
  • The Healing Power of the Purr
  • Making Time for Contemplation
  • Routine as the Key to Happiness
  • Purging Can Make You Purr
  • Healthy Cats, Healthy Human

The stories may remind readers of lessons their own cats have taught them, provide “aha” moments, or simply bring a smile.

The book is best enjoyed with a cat curled up on your lap.



PRAISE FOR Purrs of Wisdom

Purrs of Wisdomby Ingrid King, is a treat for anyone who is enchanted by all things feline! The book is an exploration of lessons on living a joyful and inspired life, learned from the many magical cats who have shared the author’s journey. I found gifts on every page, but the section titled Lessons from a Maple Tree especially touched my heart. The author talks about taking time out of her busy day to soak up the tree’s magnificent colors when the leaves change in the fall. “Doing nothing without feeling guilty” is a lesson she learned from her cats. Ingrid’s words were a gentle reminder to this fast-paced former New Yorker to look to my own kitties for guidance when my world seems to be spinning a bit too quickly.
Purrs of Wisdom is sure to be a treasured addition to any cat lover’s library!”
- Christine Davis, Author of For Every Cat An Angel and Forever Paws

***

“Reading this collection of feline-inspired essays and life lessons gave me several AHA! moments. Purrs of Wisdom is a refreshing read that packs a deceptively powerful punch and provides helpful recipes for finding your bliss. Ingrid King writes with compassion for those who struggle along as “life happens.” The gifted writer offers nearly poetic insight how to manage the angst, as well as to recognize the “why” behind such things. You’ll want to savor each individual chapter and purr-haps bookmark and revisit those that strike a personal chord. And of course, read aloud to your favorite feline companion!”
- Amy Shojai, bestselling author of more than two-dozen pet books

***

Purrs of Wisdom is the perfect book for anyone who loves cats – and has an interest in living life to the fullest, with a positive and peaceful outlook – just like a cat does! It spoke to me on several levels and is sure to become a well-thumbed volume as I continue on my life’s journey.”
- Ann Brightman, Managing Editor, Animal Wellness Magazine

***

“In this guide to living spiritually and creatively in a world that isn’t always quite comfortable with either quality, King, a keenly intuitive writer, draws upon the lessons she has learned from her beloved feline friends, weaving them deftly together with her own experiences. ”
- T.J. Banks, Author of Sketch People: Stories Along the Way and Catsong


About the Author:
Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager turned award winning writer. Her popular blog, The Conscious Cat, a comprehensive resource for conscious living, health, and happiness for cats and their humans, has won multiple awards, including DogTime Media’s 2012 Pettie for Best Cat Blog, 2011 Pettie for Best Overall Pet Blog, and About.com’s 2012 Readers Choice Award for Best Website About Cats. Ingrid is the publisher of the online magazine News for You and Your Pet, which goes out to subscribers around the world. Her articles have been published in Cat Fancy, Animal Wellness Magazine, Urban Animal, NOVADog, and on miscellaneous websites. Ingrid lives in Northern Virginia with her tortoiseshell cats Allegra and Ruby.

Her latest book is Purrs of Wisdom: Conscious Living Feline Style.

Visit her website at www.ingridking.com.


GIVEAWAY!






Blogaholic Designs”=