Chèli's 11 X 11 + 11 Love Affair with Books

I started thinking earlier this year about how much I love these challenges and all the books that I have read and been exposed to and realized that I am having a love affair with books because of LibraryThing and all my friends here. So I am debuting my categories for the 11 X 11 + 11 - my challenge for 2011.

1. Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs
2. Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors - these will be Mysteries and romances
3. The Engagement: this is getting serious - topics I'm seriously interested in - these will be Histories
4. Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance
5. Something Borrowed/Something Blue - borrowed from the library or friends/sad or blue
6. Something Old - read those TBRs
7. Something New - books that were acquired in 2010-2011.
8. Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers
9. Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home - these will be books I didn't get to in the last few years
10.The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books
11. The good old days - Historical Fiction
Bonus - Anniversaries and remembrances - Let the tears flow - Overflows

Here are the finalists in the possibilities by categories. I may, of course, change my mind at any time, but these are the books that are standing front and center at present for reading in 2011.

Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs
The Secret History of the Pink Carnation
At Home in Mitford
Lace Reader
Swan Thieves
Outlander
Pillars of the earth
The Sugar Queen
Size 12 is not Fat
A Great Deliverance
Heat Wave
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society
Murder on Monday
Death in Vienna
The Long Quiche Goodbye
Supreme Courtship
Summer in Sonoma

Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors
Burn
Hell Gate
In Big Trouble
The Sugar House
In A Strange City
knit the season
Deadly Decisions
Fatal Voyage
Grave Secrets
Bare Bones
Gingerbread Cookie Murder
Naked Heat Group Read March
The Riesling Retribution
The Viognier Vendetta
Murder on Gramercy Park
Dark Angel
Lord Carew's Bride
French Pressed
The Border Vixen
Everlasting
Irresistible @
Taste of Innocence
Crown of Destiny

The Engagement: this is getting serious - topics I'm seriously interested in
Lincoln by Gore Vidal
April 1865
The American Civil War : a military history by John Keegan
1864 : Lincoln at the gates of history
Mr. Lincoln's High-tech War
Southern storm : Sherman's march to the sea
The last full measure
Andrew Johnson by Hans Trefousse
Personal Memoirs of US Grant three parts
Rutherford B. Hayes: Warrior and President by Ari Hoogenboom
From the Towpath to the White House James Brisbin
The Chester A Arthur Conspiracy
THE RECONSTRUCTION PRESIDENTS
Mrs. Robert E. Lee: The Lady of Arlington

Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance
Standin Groom
A Case of Love
The Untamed Bride
Trap Trilogy - 3
Talk of the Ton
A Summer Affair
The True Darcy Spirit
The Second Mrs. Darcy**
Darcy's Temptation

Something Borrowed/Something Blue - from the library, friends/sad or blue
The Last Song
The Bonesetter's Daughte
The Red Queen
Fireworks Over Toccoa
South of Broad
The Postmistress
A Light in the Window
The Map of true Places
Any Bitter Thing
The Shape of Water
Murder with Peacocks
My Reading List

Something Old - read those TBRs
The necklace
Real Murders
Above Suspicion
Murder on Monday
Deadly Gamble
Defending Angels
Glazed Murder
Delicious and Suspicious
Call of the Wild
Canterbury Tales
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Sew Deadly

Something New - books that were acquired or released in the last 12 months
A Murderous Procession
Pirate King
Lucifer Code
The Altar of Bones
The White Queen
The Alexander Cipher
The Exodus Quest
Hannah Swensen 2
Fit to Die
Chili Con Corpses
Stiffs and Swine
The Battered Body
Buffalo West Wing
10136109::Scones and Bones
Bedeviled Eggs
Crunch time

Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers
Paris Vendetta
Emperor's Tomb
The Amber Room
The Plantation
Sign of the Cross
Sword of God
Acqua Alta
Quietly in their Sleep
A Noble Radiance
Fatal Remedies
Touchstone
Queen's Bastard

Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home
The Mournful Teddy
The Clockwork Teddy
The Crafty Teddy
The False-Hearted Teddy
Taste of Innocence
Lost Symbol
A Killer Stitch @
Hanging by a Thread @
Murder in miniature
Murder is binding
The Diva Runs out of Thyme @
Death at Bishop's Keep @

The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books
Harry, A History
The Red Pyramid
The Lost Hero
Nicholas Flamel series - 4
Mister Monday
Grim Tuesday
Bridge to Terabithia
The Princess and the Hound
The Princess and the Bear
The Magician's Book: A Skeptic's Adventures in Narnia

The good old days - Historical Fiction
Year of Wonders
162907::The Masque of the Black Tulip
The Deception of the Emerald Ring
The Seduction of the Crimson Rose
The Temptation of the Night Jasmine
The Betrayal of the Blood Lily
Innocent traitor
Amelia's War
The Body at the Tower
Bleak House Group read February
Gates of Trevalyan
The Sugar Queen

Anniversaries and remembrances - Let the tears flow - Overflows

I. Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs

1. The Secret of the Pink Carnation 1/5/11 ★★★½
2. The Long Quiche Goodbye 2/10/11 ★★★
3. Heat Wave 2/17/10 ★★★
4. Get Real and Stop Dieting 3/3/11 ★★★½
5. Outlander 3/21/11 ★★★★
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

II. Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors

1. Gingerbread Cookie Murder 1/9/11 ★★★
2. Crown of Destiny 2/2/11 ★★★½
3. Naked Heat 3/28/11 ★★★½
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

III. The Engagement: this is getting serious - Presidential Challenge

1. 1864: Lincoln at the gates of history 1/20/11 ★★★
2. Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

IV. Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance

1. Stand-in Groom 2/20/11 ★★★★
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

V. Something Borrowed/Something Blue - from the library, friends/sad or blue

1. Lumby on the Air 1/16/11 ★★★★ BLUE
2. The White Queen 2/20/11 ★★★½ BORROWED
3. The Red Queen 2/24/11 ★★★ BORROWED
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

VI. Something Old - read those TBRs


1. Murder is Binding 3/9/11 ★★★★
2. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society 3/28/11 ★★½
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

VII. Something New - books that were acquired 2010 and 2011


1. A Murderous Procession 1/6/11 ★★★★
2. Bedeviled Eggs 1/22/11 ★★★½
3. Scones and Bones: A Tea Shop Mystery 3/17/11 ★★★½
4. Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough 3/30/11 ★★½
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

VIII. Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers

1. Acqua Alta 1/28/11 ★★★★
2. The Amber Room 4/5/11 ★★★½
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

IX. Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home

1. The Mournful Teddy 1/25/11 ★★★★
2. The False-Hearted Teddy 2/5/11 ★★★★
3. The Crafty Teddy 3/6/11 ★★★★
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

XX. The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books

1. Bridge to Terabithia 1/25/11 ★★★
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

X

XI. The good old days - Historical fiction
1. The Masque of the Black Tulip 2/13/11 ★★★½
2. Bleak House 2/24/11 ★★½
3. The Deception of the Emerald Ring 2/28/11 ★★★
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

*********** Anniversaries and remembrances - Let the tears flow - Overflows

1.
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4.
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I like your theme. It sounds like fun!

Very very clever setup!

Hah, cute setup. Enjoy!

I love your categories and look forward to seeing what books you fill them with!

Your categories sound interesting!

Love your categories, Cheli!

Great categories! Can't wait to see your reads- oh yeah - not till next year:)

Great category titles, Cheli. Looking forward to another good year.

What a great theme! I am looking forward to following your reading next year.

Very clever organization, Cheli. Looking forward to seeing what you fit into each category.

A well thought out theme. Looking forward to seeing what you fill out the categories with.

I love your creative set-up! Looking forward to following your reading next year.

Well, I've started making that list of books for next year.

As usual, Cheli, I see several books on your list that are also on mine, and a couple that I forgot to add (The Last Song and Outlander, which my daughter is also interested in), and I feel certain that many of the others that I don't know about yet will be added to my list as you read and review them.

The only two on your list so far that I've already read are The Lace Reader, which I really liked, and The Pillars of the Earth, which I love (and have read twice).

Okay, I have a dilemna...

As I was looking at the ER books that I have won in the last 2 years since joining LT, I realize that there were books that I requested, didn't win, and ended up reading anyway. So I thought, what a great category - The Boys that didn't Call back - you know what I mean, they said they'd call after the first date but never did. I'm sure that there are at least 11 books that I requested, that I could put in that category, but do I want to change or stick with what I've got? hmmmmm......

#29 What a great idea. Have you kept track of all the books you requested? (I haven't)

Good idea. I asked for only one book this month and got it. The one about football.

@29 -- I'd say, if you have a category that you wouldn't mind getting rid of (or that you could easily combine with another existing category), then go ahead and add the new one. But if you're really set on all the categories you've picked, then save the new category for 2012! :)

After thinking it over and listening to your comments, I think I'm gooing to stick with the categories that I have. I will, however, try to keep track of those elusive beaus that never returned a call in 2011 and read them in 2012.

Your pictures are adorable!!

Okay I've finalized all my candidates for 2011 and inserted them above. As I'm sure will happen, there will be changes as I go along but if the WWBF hit tomorrow, these are the books I would read in 2011.

#1 The Secret History of the Pink Carnation

Author: Lauren Willig
Read: December 31 - January 5
Format: Audio - 12 CDs 14.5 hrs. equivalent 464 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: 19th century espionage, Purple Gentian - English Spy
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors
Genre: Mystery
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL, AUDIO
Stars: 3½

We've all heard of the Scarlet Pimpernel, and very much along the lines of the his adventures, we are treated to the story of the end of the career of the Purple Gentian (a friend of the Scarlet Pimpernel) and how he was unmasked and the circumstances which lead to the birth of the Pink Carnation in his stead.

The story is woven around the research of a Harvard Doctoral candidate (Eloise Kelly) searching for the identity of the Pink Carnation - an English spy during the Napoleonic era whose true identity has never been revealed. Having searched numerous archives in the British library and universities, Eloise makes a last ditch effort and contacts the family members of the Scarlet Pimpernel and the Purple Gentian asking if they have any information that could be helpful. The story that evolves is delightfully entertaining and mysterious.

This is the first in the series and I'm definitely looking forward to continuing this series - the characters were fun and amusing and the style was refreshing.\

I was beginning to think I was never going to finish the first book, but now I'm on my way!

Congrats on finishing that first one, Cheli. As you said, you're on your way now.

I'm glad you enjoyed your first Carnation book. The series improves as it goes along. The newest one, The Orchid Affair, is scheduled to release this month and I am so excited about reading it.

I love the Pink Carnation series! It's certainly not Great Literature, but it's so much fun! :) I second what Victoria said -- the books definitely improve as they go on. The second one, The Masque of the Black Tulip, is actually one of my favorites in the series.

Yes, fun is the word. I think my favorite is still The Seduction of the Crimson Rose.

I've had Pink Carnation on the wishlist for a while now. Glad to hear that you liked it and pleased to see that there is some disagreement as to which book of the series is really the best! I need to figure out a way to move this higher on the list.

Victoria was the one who brought these to my attention and I meant to thank her for the recommendation. I have all but the new one coming out ready to go. I've "scheduled" one each month so that I get other things read too.

If reading one a month works out this year, next year I think i'm going to review my mystery series and do the same for some of the series that I can't seem to get to on a regular basis.

Well then, I'm doubly glad that you enjoyed it! Whew!

#2 A Murderous Procession

Author: Ariana Franklin
Read: January 2 - January 6
Format: E- Book - equvalent of 510 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: Royal Marriage procession, travel Crusades era
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, RTT, BOYS
Category:
Genre: Something New - books that were acquired or released in the last 12 months
Stars: 4

The fourth installment of the Mistress of the Art of Death series sees Adeila under the orders of Henry II accompanying Princess Joanna to her wedding in Sicily. Unknown to her and her personal entourage, Adeila is being followed by Scarry - the partner of the evil character from the previous book. He has disguised himself as part of the Princess' entourage and no one suspects except Rowley and Ulf after trouble starts to plaque the procession.

The story is enthralling, keeping the reader's attention and at times, taking your breath away. I was a bit disappointed at the swiftness of the conclusion as if Ms. Franklin felt the story should end and just did it but I also wish there wasn't such a cliffhanger. I love the series and wish the books came faster, but I don't want the quality to fall.

I have to say I think that's a great idea to get through some of my series - do one a month. I might take a look and see if I can fit some into this yer's challenge.

#3 Gingerbread Cookie Murder

Author: Joanne Fluke, Laura Levine, Leslie Meier
Read: January 7 - January 9
Format: Hardback 361 pages
Source: Librarything Early Reviewers Program
Setting: Various locales
Subject: murders during the holidays
Category: Going Steady - ongoing series
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI
Stars: 3

This book is the combination of 3 short stories starring familiar characters. Each has gingerbread men central to the tale. Joanne Fluke's story is about the murder of one of her neighbors, Laura Levine's account tells of her character visiting her parents in a Florida retirement community and coming across a murder, and Leslie Meier's narrative of a kidnapped child. The first two were amusing - the last a bit too dark for the group.

Hi, Cheli! So far this year you've read 3 books that are high on my tbr list! I'm still hoping to get to Pink Carnation this month, but the other 2 will probably be later this year.

HERE SHE IS! Meet Miss Isabella Noelle who arrved yesterday at 7:16AM weighing in at 6 lbs. 9 ozs.

Awww - she's so sweet!

Baby!!! Congratulations, she's beautiful. :)

What a cutie! Congratulations!

ohhhhhh. how sweet! And what a lovely name, too.

Adorable baby! There's nothing as sweet as a new grandbaby, congratulations to the whole family!

Congratulations, she's beautiful!

What a sweetheart! Congratulations!

So Cute! Nice hat too! Congratulations!

She's beautiful, Cheli! Congratulations!

What a sweetie, congratulations!

I love the bow - she's beautiful. Congratulations!

#4 Lumby on the Air

Author: Gail Fraser
Read: January 9 - January 16
Format: Paperback 430 pages
Source: FSB Associates for review
Setting: NW USA
Subject: small town, family reunions, teenage rebellion
Category: Something Borrowed/Something Blue - blue
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI
Stars: 4

This book, 5th in the series, is the latest tale of the charming quirky little town in the NW that has enchanted so many. The reader is invited into the family of Mark and Pam Walker as they host a family reunion which will culminate with their 25th anniversary and the renewal of their vows.

The reader meet both Mark's Family and siblings and Pam's mother and all the dysfunctional antics that go with them. At the same time, additional residents in Lumby are introduced while the characters that were in previous installments are still in the area. Lumby shows to its best advantage the quality of small town living even when big city visitors are in residence.

I can't wait for the next book to hit the shelves.

>4 cyderry: Cheli, I think I'm going to have to add the Lumby books to my wish list. Everyone keeps talking about them and how great they are!

I absolutely have to share this picture of Jackson meeting his baby sister. It is priceless!



Finally got a look at over a hundred pictures and picked my favorites.

He's adorable! What a beautiful family, you must be so proud.

Oh, brave Mama to let the 2-year old on the bed with her! What a great picture!

Great photo! Love his shirt!

#5 1864 : Lincoln at the gates of history

Author: Charles B. Flood
Read: January 8 - January 20
Format: Audio - Overdrive 20 hrs. equivalent 521 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: Civil War, Lincoln Re-election
Category: The Engagement: this is getting serious
Genre: History
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL, AUDIO
Stars: 3

This book concentrated on the pivotal year of history of 1864 during the Lincoln Administration telling about the political problems that impacted the President while he was working toward re-election.
The political environment in 1864 was extremely complicated because of the splits in the parties - Conservative Republicans who supported Lincoln, Radical Republicans that questioned his handling of the South, Peace Democrats who advocated compromise, and War Democrats who wanted to fight and didn't care about the slaves.

The historical events of the year - battles including the Wilderness Campaign, Lincoln's handling of Military leadership problems, the death of Chief Justice Taney, and issues with his own wife clashed with his efforts toward re-election. Lincoln felt that there was a good chance that he would not be returning to the Presidency and seems to be surprised when it does happen.

Interesting information with a detailed look for a specific year in the timeframe of the war.

Have to take a day of rest. Been pushing myself to hard. So since I'm not lugging firewood into the house for a fre, I'll to snuggle down with a blanket in front of this one and read.

#6 Bedeviled Eggs

Author: Laura Childs
Read: January 17 - January 22
Format: Paperback 320 pages including recipes
Source: Author for review
Setting: Fictional town of Kindred
Subject: small town, Halloween,murder mystery
Category: Something New - books acquired or released in the last 12 months
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: 3½

This third installment of the Cackleberry Club series is full of fun and laughter while weaving an entertaining mystery along the way. Suzanne Dietz and her partners at the Cackleberry Club set out to help a friend and get involved in more than they bargained for. When a mayoral candidate is murdered at Suzanne's side directly after attending a CackleBerry Club read-dating event where he was involved in an altercation (with their friend Jane), Suzanne, Toni, and Petra set out to clear their friend who is instantly the #1 suspect. The escapades that ensue are enjoyably diverting while driving the mystery investigation and the character development.

This book had a bit of humor, romance, mystery and a touch of social conscience. I'm liking this series more with each book.

What is read dating?

You know what speed dating is - when men meet women at a special location, talk for about 10 minutes, then shift and start again. Well, read-dating is kind of the same except that the men and women talk about the kinds of books that they like so they are matched up by genre.

Aww. Isabella is a beautiful little peanut. Love Jackson's Big Brother shirt. He looks so happy to see her. I hope that lasts.

#70 My co-workers husband runs a dating service that matches people based on their favorite book.

#7 The Mournful Teddy

Author: John J. Lamb
Read: January 22 - January 25
Format: Paperback 289 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Rural Virginia
Subject: teddy bear collecting, law enforcement corruption
Category: Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - leftover
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: 4 ★★★★

Brad Lyons had been a Homicide Inspector for the city of San Francisco before he was shot and permanently disabled and forced to retire. With his wife Ashleigh they move back to her hometown and started an artisan business of creating teddy bears.

The morning of the Great Teddy Bear Extravaganza, the body of a man washed up on their land and County Sheriff, without even examining the body, determined that it was an accidental drowning. Brad tried to explain to the Sheriff all the signs that pointed to a murder by strangulation, but he was told emphatically that t was a drowning and to keep his nose out of it if he knew what was good for him. As Brad and Ashleigh headed to the Extravaganza they were stopped by the sheriff's deputy (his son) and given several tickets as a warning of what trouble they could get into if they didn't comply with the Sheriff's request.

The story is cleverly woven so that the clues emerge to the characters and the readers at the same time and the characterizations as they develop are entertaining and delightful. I have the next in the series and look forward to it immensely. (I would even if I wasn't an arctophile.)

>72 cyderry: I would even if I wasn't an arctophile.

Had to look that one up, only to discover it's a condition I've been afflicted with for years. Chronic, occasionally expensive to treat, but fortunately not fatal!

Isn't it great to know what your affliction is? Even if you don't want to be cured?

#8 Bridge to Terabitia

Author: Katherine Paterson
Read: January 21 - January 25
Format: Audio - 4 CDs equivalent 128 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: Childhood, bullies, friendship
Category: The Kids have it!
Genre: Fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL, AUDIO
Stars: 3

I don't exactly what to say about this book. There are nearly 200 reviews already on LibraryThing so I will forgo the story review and just go with my impressions.

The two main characters in this book are a 5th grade boy and girl who are thrown together because of the area they live in, their ability to run fast and their isolation. Jesse, the young boy, is alone on the family farm with 4 sisters and mother while his father works out of town. Leslie, the young girl, has moved to the rural area with her parents (both writers) who are trying to get back to basics (they don't even have a TV). Because of their mutual isolation from children of their age (Jesse because of working the farm) and Leslie (because she's the new kid on the block) they bond and together they create the imaginary world of Terabithia where they are the King and Queen.

The relationship that develops between of them is that of young love and when the tragedy hits, the reactions and how it is handled are touching. A lovely little book.

>75 cyderry: Bridge to Terebithia is one of my childhood favorites. I am planning to re-read it this year, along with Jacob Have I Loved, also by Paterson, which is equally wonderful.

#9 Acqua Alta

Author: Donna Leon
Read: January 25 - January 28
Format: 374 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: Chinese Archeology, Mafia infiltration, Gay bashing
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, SYLL
Category: Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Stars: ****

The 5th installment of Donna Leon's Commissario Brunetti series returns characters from the first book of the series to the beautiful Venetian setting and then makes it turn ugly with a vicious beating and death threats.

Guido Brunetti realizes that a friend, Brett Lynch, an archeologist that specializes in Chinese ceramics, has return when he is presented with a report about the vicious assault by men, putting her in the hospital. He gathers information about the beating which was a warning for her to avoid a meeting with the Museum director in Venice, Semenzato. When he is found dead in his office, Brunetti, starts to piece together an intricately woven conspiracy surrounding theft and substitution of rare art objects.
Guido's determination to protect his friend and to identify the perpetrators, is documented with the backdrop of the rain season which brings the "high water" (acqua alta) through which Brunetti was wade to find all the clues that finally lead him to the answers he seeks.

If only the real world mysteries could be solved in the same manner by policemen like Commissario Guido Brunetti who often disregards the method of gaining information so that justice can be achieved. I am really looking forward to the next installment.

I'm reading the Commissario Brunetti series right now as well, but I'm only on the second book. Looking forward to getting up to the 5th. Glad to know they're still exciting as the series continues.

Isn't Leon's writing about Venice so beautiful? I wish I was there right now.

JANUARY RECAP
Well, January was just a lazy month trying to recuperate from surgery and get ready for my new granddaughter! I was going to spend a lot of time just reading but then snowy weather dielivered me a few house guests so my reading was stalled! - several romances, a history, some great fiction, even so I'm off to a good start for 2011!

The best of the month was - A Murderous Procession but Acqua Alta was a very close second.
The worst of the month - 1864: Lincoln at the gates of history - not really bad

I. Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs 1/11
The Secret History of the Pink Carnation

II. Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors 1/11
Gingerbread Cookie Murder

III. The Engagement: this is getting serious - topics I'm seriously interested in 1/11
1864: Lincoln at the Gates of History

IV. Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance 0/11

V. Something Borrowed/Something Blue - from the library, friends/sad or blue 1/11
Lumby on the Air

VI. Something Old - read those TBRs 0/11

VII. Something New - books that were acquired in 2011 2/11
A Murderous Procession
Bedeviled Eggs

VIII. Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers 1/11
Acqua Alta

IX. Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home 1/11
The Mournful Teddy

X. The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books 1/11
Bridge to Terabithia

XI. The good old days - Histories 0/11

Xi. Anniversaries and remembrances - Let the tears flow - Overflows 0/11

I hope to keep up in February but travel plans are currently in progress so time for reading may be curtailed. I will be reading some of the following books:
Crown of Destiny
The Masque of the Black Tulip
Heat Wave
Bleak House
The Long Quiche Goodbye
Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war
Stand-in Groom
The White Queen
Scones and Bones
The Altar of Bones
The Amber Room
The False-Hearted Teddy
The Magician's Book: A Skeptic's Adventures in Narnia

#10 Crown of Destiny

Author: Bertrice Small
Read: January 28 - February 2
Format: Paperback 376 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: World of Hetar, Twilight Lord
Category: Going Steady - continuing series, favorite authors
Genre: Fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★½

This is the final book in the World of Hetar series which details the life of Lara, a Fairie woman, who has for over a century attempted to protect Hetar and Terah from the darkness and evil of the Twilight Lord. In this final installment, Lara comes to realize that the Light cannot always be victorious over the Dark and that sometimes, to withdraw for another day's battle is wise.

As a fairie, Lara doesn't appear to age to mortals which is very disturbing for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They cannot remember the battles that she has fought or adventures that she has had. They see only someone who is young and vital but none of the magic which sustains it. When the Twilight Lord Kolgrim (Lara's son by Kol) finds that his destiny is written to marry an Hetarian virgin who will increase his magical powers and allow him to take over the Hetar and Terah worlds, Lara tries to prevent the marriage and when unsuccessful, tries to foil the magical transfer.

As always the vibrant story is entertaining and erotic (to an extent) showing the reader the rich details of the authors imagination while bringing to life a magical world.

Those who have never met Lara and the World of Hetar in the previous books, will feel a bit lost and need to go back to read the previous volumes so that the references will all make sense. Definitely one that needs to be read after the others.

The Series is a keeper.

#11 The False-Hearted Teddy

Author: John J. Lamb
Read: February 3 - February 5
Format: Paperback 262 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Baltimore
Subject: teddy bear collecting, copyrights
Category: Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - leftover
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★★

This is the second book in the Bear Collector's series. Bradley Lyons, retired SF Homicide detective, and his wife Ashleigh, are teddy bear artisans who drive to Baltimore to attend a teddy bear show. While there they are involved in the untimely death of one of their competitors. Even though Brad is warned by the Fame-hungry BPD detective, he is forced to start his own investigation to protect himself and Ash from being arrested for murder.

The story moves along speedily and the regular characters are very endearing. The story specific characters do have a tendency to be a bit 2-dimensional, but over all and really enjoyable read.

#12 Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war

Author: Thomas B Allen
Read: February 6 - February 7
Format: Hardback 139 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: inventions, warfare improvements(?)
Category: The Engagement: this is getting serious
Genre: History
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL
Stars: ★★★½

I've read several, okay lots, of books related to the American Civil War, but until I read this book, I never really thought about how history was very much changed by how the war was fought, not just the reasons for which it was fought. This book illustrated how warfare was definitively changed by the inventions of the day.

Naval operations were altered by the elimination of sails being replaced by total steam-powered vessels. Ironclading was added for defense along with revolving gun turrets and the first submarines were utilized. Blockade runners had telescoping funnels to reduce their profiles when trying to slide into harbors unnoticed. There were even the beginnings of "aircraft carriers" with rafts that were used to launch hot air balloons used for air reconnaissance.

The last Calvary battles were fought because of the improvement of the accuracy of the newest repeating rifles. Troops were moved via the railroad saving time and the telegraph was used to send commands directly to the field Operations.

Amazing that all these changes took place during the Civil War and really seem to go unnoticed.

#13 The Long Quiche Goodbye

Author: Avery Aames
Read: February 6 - February 10
Format: Paperback 336 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Providence, OH
Subject: cheese, murder, infidelity
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★
This is the first book in the Cheese Shop series introducing Charlotte and her family. They are celebrating the grand re-opening of the family cheese shop when there is murder committed right outside the front door and Grandmère is the prime suspect being found over the body and covered in blood.

Charlotte decides that since Chief Urso doesn’t seem to be anxious to find the real murderer (she knows that her grandmother couldn't have killed anyone) that she will have to solve the murder herself. After numerous stops and starts and erroneous accusations, Charlotte manages to identify the real murderer and free her Grandmother.

I really like this book mainly because of the family interaction as well as the humorous oafish sleuthing with which the story progresses.

I have that first cheese shop mystery in my TBR pile. I know I won't get to it this month, but I'd love to get to it soon.

#14 The Masque of the Black Tulip

Author: Lauren Willig
Read: January 31 - February 7
Format: Audiobook 12 CDs equivalent 416 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: espionage, Napoleonic Wars
Category: The good old days - Histories
Genre: History fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL
Stars: ★★★½

This is the second installment of the Pink Carnation series and entertainingly reports more of Eloise's efforts to work on her dissertation as well as the data that she is gathering on espionage during the Napoleonic wars.

Eloise is not only spending time with Colin (searching through the archives at the ancestral home of the Selwicks) and possibly starting a relationship, but discovers interesting aspects with her research identifying the most notorious French spy, the Black Tulip. Miles Dorrington, best friend of Richard Selwick- the Purple Gentian, and Richard's sister - Lady Henrietta Selwick and are involved in the investigation and their adventures carry the Pink Carnation further along. Good second book

#15 Heat Wave

Author: Richard Castle
Read: February 14 - February 17
Format: 224 pages
Source: Nook Library
Subject: police procedural, reporter ride-along
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Stars: ***

This book makes a fictional character from the television series CASTLE into a real author includng the bio info and friends to thank. The book and TV series are so much related it's hard to separate. The main characters Nikki Heat, mirrored in the series by the character Kate Beckett, and Jameson Rook shown in the character of Richard Castle the "author", differ from their "real life" counterparts in various ways and yet the disquises are insufficient to keep them incognito. (Rook and Castle are even the same name for a chess piece.)

The mystery in the book could very well become an episode of the series with the twists and turns and red herrings thrown at the reader but it holds your interest and keeps you coming back for more. Several of the aspects of the book would be great in the TV series and vice versa. All in all, an interesting concept and fun book.

You're doing well with 11 in 11, Cheli.

When I changed categories, I lost one but I figure to make up for it. I hope so as I've had a reading lull lately.

#16 Stand-In Groom

Author: Kaye Dacus
Read: February 17 - February 20
Format: Paperback 299 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Setting: Bonneterre, LA
Subject: celebrity, marriage, trust, faith
Category: Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★★

Anne Hawthorne is an event planner who has been hired to handle an engagement party and wedding and in walks the bride and groom and immediately Anne is hit with a strong attraction to the groom. Fighting the appeal that she feels for her client, she works diligently to fulfill the couple's wishes but finds it harder and harder to fight the magnetism that she feels. Finally, because of George's opposition to lying to Anne, he informs her that he s not the 'groom' but just his stand-in. The detailed story of their romance is heart-warming as well as uplifting and truly an enjoyable experience.

This is the first book in the Brides of Bonneterre series. I won the second book in the series through the ER program and enjoyed it so much that I had to have the other two books as well. I am really looking forward to #3 later this year.

#17 The White Queen

Author: Philippa Gregory
Read: February 15 - February 20
Format: Audiobook 13 CDs and paperback 660 pages
Source: Piblic Library and Owned
Subject: War of the Roses, Tudor rebellion, murdered princes, Elizabeth Woodville
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS, SYLL
Category: Something Borrowed - from the library/sad
Genre: Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★★½

British history is filled with figures that have been taken by writers and had their "story" re-written adding romance, passion, intrigue - all speculation - but turning them into great stories. The White Queen takes the life of Elizabeth Woodville, a Lancastrian widow, who married Edward, a Yorkist king, and presents her life from her point of view. Elizabeth was the mother of the Princes in the Tower and the grandmother of Henry VIII. Yet the story told in this book show her not just as a queen but basically as a wife, mother, sister, daughter who only got involved in the political arena to protect her children.

Having read other books about the last Plantagenets, the War of the Roses (white rose Yorkist, red rose Lancaster) and the start of the Tudor dynasty, I found this author's hypothesis extremely fascinating because they were so completely different from other fictional accounts that I had read.

Glad you found The White Queen interesting, Cheli! I find Philippa Gregory's twists on history quite fun, though there was one book that I didn't like (about Mary, Queen of Scots). I have The White Queen on my list and sitting on my tbr shelf, but you almost always seem to be ahead of me in reading the books! Oh, not always I guess -- I read Heat Wave a while ago, but I'll bet you beat me in reading the next one.

Riordan's The Lost Hero just made it to the top of my stack... think I may read it next...

#18 The Red Queen

Author: Philippa Gregory
Read: February 21 - February 24
Format: Audiobook 11 CDs and paperback 382 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: War of the Roses, Tudor rebellion, murdered princes, Margaret Beaufort
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, SYLL
Category: Something Borrowed - from the library/sad
Genre: Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★★

The War of the Roses depicted the Yorkist viewpoint in the White Queen and in this book, the second installment of the trilogy, we see the Lancaster side of the events that led to the end of the cousin's war and founding of the Tudor dynasty. Margaret Beaufort, the Lancastrian heiress was married at the age of 13 to Edmund Tudor, a Welsh prince, and her son, Henry, was born shortly after her husband's death. Henry was raised by his uncle, Jasper, while Margaret remarried twice.

Margaret Beaufort believed that her destiny was to be the mother of the King of England and she worked tirelessly throughout her life to achieve that goal.

Reading the books back-to-back showed the reader how the same events can be interpreted differently and also how lives are interwoven in different ways.

#20 The Deception of the Emerald Ring

Author: Lauren Willig
Read: February 26 - February 28
Format: Audiobook 11 CDs equivalent 400 pages
Source: Public Library
Subject: espionage, Napoleonic Wars
Category: The good old days - Histories
Genre: History fiction
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, SYLL
Stars: ★★★½

In this third installment of the Pink Carnation series, Eloise comes across some undiscovered references for the work of the Pink Carnation while at the same time she is expanding her social life.

Noticing a discrepancy in some records at the library, Eloise digs deeper and finds details of the Pink Carnation's effort to foil the Black Tulip (French operative) and stop the Irish Rebellion of 1803. The background story is extremely entertaining and the characters, both new and old, especially the tale of Eloise's blind date is terribly amusing. The love story and introduction of more members of the Pink Carnation band expand the readers desire to join up and defeat the French.

I started this series earlier this year and have been moving steadily along but I admit, this is my favorite so far. Definitely a series keeper.

FEBRUARY RECAP
I really got on a roll this month! Even though there were fewer days this month, I got more books read than in January. 20 hours in a car for a trip to and from Hilton Head gave me plenty of time to read and read I did!

The best of the month was - StandIn Groom
The worst of the month - Bleak House not really bad just waaaay toooo longggg!

I. Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs 3/11
Heat Wave
The Long Quiche Goodbye

II. Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors 2/11
Crown of Destiny

III. The Engagement: this is getting serious - topics I'm seriously interested in 2/11
Mr. Lincoln's high-tech war

IV. Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance 1/11
Stand-in Groom

V. Something Borrowed/Something Blue - from the library, friends/sad or blue 3/11
The White Queen
The Red Queen

VI. Something Old - read those TBRs 0/11

VII. Something New - books that were acquired in 2011 2/11

VIII. Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers 1/11

IX. Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home 2/11
The False-Hearted Teddy

X. The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books 1/11

XI. The good old days - Histories 3/11
Bleak House
The Masque of the Black Tulip
The Deception of the Emerald Ring

XII. Anniversaries and remembrances - Let the tears flow - Overflows 0/11

Travel plans are currently in progress for early in the month so I should have time to read while I sit in the airport. I want to finish the catch up for the January shortfall this month so I will be reading some of the following books:

Outlander
The Crafty Teddy
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough
Naked Heat Group Read March
The Border Vixen
The True Darcy Spirit
Talk of the Ton
Scones and Bones
The Amber Room
French Pressed
Murder is binding
Get Real and Stop Dieting!
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society

#21 Get Real and Stop Dieting!

Author: Brett Blumental
Read: March 3
Format: 140 pages
Source: Amazon publicist for review
Subject: nutrition, weight loss, fitness
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★½

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am weight challenged (is that the politically correct wording for overweight?) and so if I can find a book that will at least help me to eat healthier, even if I can't lose weight, I'm going to take a look. I wish I'd looked sooner.

This is a quick easy book filled with all different kinds of information including charts of examples of soluble fiber vs. insoluble fiber, cooking and baking substitutions, recipes with nutritional information, and details of what that nutritional label means to you, just to name some.

The advice for changing your eating habits seems just common sense when the explanation is read and understanding the differences in ingredients could knock you for a loop.

This is a book that I am planning on keeping readily accessible in my kitchen. Maybe I won't lose weight because of it, but I definitely hope to be eating healthier.

#22 The Crafty Teddy

Author: John J. Lamb
Read: March 3 - March 6
Format: 288 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: Teddy Bear collectors, counterfeit collectibles
Category: Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, & hobbies at home
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★★

Brad needs some time away from the ladies of the Teddy Bear Guild so he sets off to spend the morning with Sergei. While there, two Japanese mobsters (Brad recognizes the markings) come in searching for the local Historical Museum. Curious after their departure, Brad goes to the museum where he finds the museum director dead.

Sheriff Tina (a member of the Guild) reports to the scene with Ashleigh (Brad's wife) and together they notice the fake antique teddy Bears on display. Using this point as a start, Brad and Ash along with Tina delve deeper into the Japanese visitors along with the people who were vital to the victim.

The third installment of the Teddy Collectors Series is more fun than the previous books because the reader is blessed with further development of the central characters while they join together to solve the murder of the local Museum director. Brad and Ashleigh are fully involved in the investigation and their relationship as well as their teddies continued to evolve. It was sensational to see the Boyds Bear locale described so perfectly. Can't wait for the next story!

#23 Murder is Binding

Author: Lorna Barrett
Read: March 6 - March 9
Format: paperback 288 pages inclding recipes
Source: Barnes & Noble 2009
Subject: independent booksellers, twins, fraud, murder
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Category: Something Old - read those TBRs
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Stars: ★★★★

In the first BookTown mystery, the reader is introduced to Stoneham, New Hampshire, a small town which has revitalized its Main Street by inviting booksellers of all genres to open bookstores. Tricia Miles opened Haven't Got a Clue, a store for mystery lovers. Right next store is the Cookery, a cookbook store owned and operated by Doris Gleason, probably the least favorite person in town, so it's not surprising when she is found, by Tricia, murdered in her shop and a valuable old cookbook missing.

Little does Tricia know that she's in for a boat load of trouble because the Sheriff (Wendy Adams) thinks Tricia is after her boyfriend and so sets out to blame Tricia for the murder.

Just as all these problems happen, Angelica Prescott, Tricia's not so loving sister, descends on Stoneham because of her impending divorce, seeking family to sustain her. Even though they are not the closest siblings, Tricia and Angelica set out to clear up the murder since Sheriff Wendy sees no reason to investigate further.

The whole idea of BookTown has the reader wishing that it really existed and that they could hop on a bus and arrive in this quaint little town and buy books. I know that I'd be on the bus in a heartbeat. The characters in this book are fun, dysfunctional, and in some ways unique to the Cozy genre and in others welcomed friends. Can't wait to visit the other bookstores!

#24 Scones and Bones: A Tea Shop Mystery

Author: Laura Childs
Read: March 12 - March 17
Format: paperback 288 pages including recipes
Source: Author for review
Subject: pirates, folklore, tea, recipes
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Category: Something New - books that were acquired in 2010 & 2011
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Stars: ★★★½

Drayton Conneley, master tea blender for the Indigo Tea Shop, escorts its owner, Theodosia Browning, to the Heritage Society's Pirates and Plunder Party and in doing so, exposes Theo to the exploits of a murderer searching for Blackbeard's buried treasure. When murder threatens her friends, Theodosia and Drayton learn the mysteries of Blackbeard's Skull Cup following the clues and legends of old, while at the same time preparing for the Food & Wine Festival activities in Charleston. We've all heard Wine & Cheese, well, the Indigo Tea Shop is serving Tea & Cheese pairing different teas with exotic cheeses. But that's not all that brews up before the end of the book. A fun read bringing old friends (this is the 12th installment of the Tea Shop Mysteries) back to us with new and interesting revelations.

#25 Outlander

Author: Diana Gabaldon
Read: March 1 - March 21
Format: Audio 28 discs - 32 hrs equivalent and Nook book 784 pages
Source: audio via library and Nook from B&N
Subject: time travel, torture, Scottish ancestry
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, Endless Europe, BOYS, AUDIO, SYLL, TIOLI
Category: Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★★★

Clare Randall is on vacation with her husband Frank who is researching his ancestors in Scotland. While there magically Clare is transported back in time and her adventure begins. She is accepted as a healer and to protect her from investigation of her political leanings, is "forced" into a marriage with a Scottish Laird. The story evolves including the love developed between the two main characters.

I truly enjoyed the story and was surprised that the length didn't bother me because of the quality of the writing and character development. I usually don't go in for time travel and such but this was so cleverly woven into the tale that I didn't mind it at all. I was very much surprised when I realized that the story continues in another book. I'm not sure that I am ready for another chunkster immediately, but will definitely follow-up on this tale.

#26 Naked Heat

Author: Richard Castle
Read: March 21 - March
Format: Hardback 288 pages
Source: Barnes & Noble
Subject: gossip columns,
Category: Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, TIOLI, BOYS
Stars: ★★★½

For those readers that follow the TV program CASTLE, reading the books that are "written" by its character Richard Castle are entertaining throughout. This second book written by Castle definitely utilizes the characters from the original but also blend in a bit of Beckett and Castle too. The reader is gratified by the emotional relationship development which viewers can only see and desire.

Nikki and Rook come back together at the crime scene - Cassidy Towne, gossip columnist has been murdered and throughout their investigation not only are they both endangered physically but their emotions are at risk.

This book was completely fun and entertaining. Certainly hope that there will be another!

re The Red Queen
I recently read The White Queen, and am glad to see a positive review for the second in the trilogy, must go and find it! I am a big fan of Philippa Gregory, and it was interesting to see her out of the Tudor Era.

I also keep looking at Diana Gabaldon's books, my Mum is a huge fan and every time I go to pick one up, she seems to be writing another book!

Looks like you are enjoying your 11 in 11 :)

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Author: Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
Read: March 20 - March 26
Format: Audio 7 discs - 32 hrs equivalent and Paperback 327 pages
Source: audio via library and owned from B&N
Subject: german occupation of Guernsey
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, BOYS, AUDIO, SYLL
Category: Something Old - Read those TBRs
Genre: Historical Fiction
Stars: ★★½

There are many reviews out there for this book so I will just comment on my impressions. First I was disappointed because I had heard so much about this book and then when I finally read it, it didn't live up to my expectations. The characters were very flat caricatures IMO, and the situations seemed a bit contrived. It never really grabbed my attention thoroughly and didn't hold my interest as I went along.

It's always a disappointment when a book highly hyped just doesn't turn out to be what you thought it would. I'm having that issue with an ER book I'm reading. Everyone seems to think it's great but it's turning out to not be my cup of tea. I'm really struggling to finish the last 20 pages so I can write my review. I liked the Guernsey book but I also wished it had more depth.

Differing opinions make the world go round. The year I read it, 2008 I believe, the Guernsey book was my favorite book of the year.

otoh, everyone absolutely raved about an ER book I had (Major Pettigrew) and I didn't like it.

I guess we can't all like the same things.

I also liked Guernsey a lot -- and I enjoyed Major Pettigrew, though I think I liked Guernsey better. But I often dislike books that others love -- Wolf Hall and The Thirteenth Tale come immediately to mind, along with a couple of others. What puzzles me is that I can't see a pattern. With so many books that we all like, I would have predicted that Cheli would like Guernsey and that Linda would like Major Pettigrew! It does keep things interesting!

#28 Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough

Author: Ruth Pennebaker
Read: March 13 - March 30
Format: ARC Paperback 304 pages
Source: publisher for review
Subject: divorce, dysfunctional family, depression
Challenges: 11 in 11, 75 Book, BOYS
Category: Something New - books that were acquired in 2011
Genre: Fiction
Stars: ★★½

Angry divorcée, teenager with self-esteem issues, depressed grandmother with emotional problems - put them together in the same house and the story should be full of strange ways of coping with each other and their individual lives. Caroline, a 15 year-old, checks every morning to see if her breasts have grown and worries about never losing her virginity. Her mother, Joanie, is trying to recover from her husband walking out on her and compelling her to enter the workforce when she hasn't held a regular job since college. Finally, you have Ivy, the grandmother, who takes up shoplifting to lift her spirits.

Take this combination and add a runaway father with a pregnant girlfriend who thinks that Caroline should be her new best friend and you should have an entertaining book. Unfortunately, it falls a bit short of expectations.

MARCH RECAP
I got into a reading funk and only got 8 books read. That said, I'm really going to get my act in gear if I'm going to complete the 111 in 11 challenge by year end. Therefore, I'm making a move to get more of my audio books finished in April. My other projects can be worked on while I listen, so hopefully, this will move me forward.

The best of the month was - Murder is Binding
The worst of the month - Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough ARC that needs work

I. Blind dates: Will I like them? - New series / new authors / ER/ ARCs 5/11
Outlander
Get Real and Stop Dieting!

II. Going steady: Should we keep seeing each other? - ongoing series/favorite authors 3/11
Naked Heat

III. The Engagement: this is getting serious - topics I'm seriously interested in 2/11

IV. Love and Marriage: a lifetime commitment - can't live without romance 1/11

V. Something Borrowed/Something Blue - from the library, friends/sad or blue 3/11

VI. Something Old - read those TBRs 2/11
Murder is binding
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Pie Society

VII. Something New - books that were acquired in 2011 4/11
Scones and Bones
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakthrough

VIII. Honeymoon - foreign settings/thrillers 1/11

IX. Setting up Housekeeping/ Leftovers - Crafts, cooking, and hobbies at home 3/11
The Crafty Teddy

X. The Kids have it - Young adult and children's books 1/11

XI. The good old days - Histories 3/11

Books for next month:

The Amber Room currently listening
The Altar of Bones
The Seduction of the Crimson Rose - audio
Murder on Gramercy Park
Paris Vendetta - audio
The Clockwork Teddy
At Home in Mitford - audio
Buffalo West Wing
The Thirteenth Tale - audio
Quietly in their Sleep
Year of Wonder - audio
The Untamed Bride

Quarterly total
Books Read Owned 19 (Pages: 7,511)
Books Read Borrowed 9 (Pages: 3,133 )
Audio Books heard 8 ( 126¼ hours)

Total Completed
19 books and 9 audio books - 10,644 pages
25 fiction; 3 nonfiction

Genre Summary

Nonfiction:
2 books History
1 book Health

Fiction:
Novels: 5
Youth/Children: 1
Mystery: 15
Historical Fiction: 3
Classic: 1

January: 5 pre-owned : 4 borrowed : 0 ARC - 9 books.
Best of the Month: A Murderous Procession
February: 3 pre-owned: 5 borrowed: 3 new: 1 ARC - 12 books.
Best of the Month: StandIn Groom
March: 4 pre-owned: 0 borrowed: 1 new: 3 ARC - 8 books.
Best of the Month: Murder is Binding

Favorite of the Quarter: A Murderous Procession

I'm moving on to the 2nd quarter here

Since you might not get back to my thread soon, I thought I'd stop over on yours for a minute. I just wanted to let you know that if you're interested in Woman in White, there's a group read in Oct. I'm not sure if I'll join in or not, but I'll probably follow the thread just to see what others think of the book. Thanks for stopping by my thread. I read yours too and am amazed at the detail of your summaries.

I see you have a Mitford book on your schedule for this month. I'm almost done with Home to Holly Springs which isn't part of the Mitford series directly, but another series Ms Karon started about Father Cavanaugh. I'm really enjoying it. Do you BM? Would you like it when I'm done? No pressure - just asking.