Wanderlust Challenges discussion
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Exploring Belgium
Challenge Continued . . .Day 6: Namur and Liège
Namur is the capital of Wallonia, the French part of Belgium. Its most important monument is the Citadel, that is the fortress built at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse Rivers. Since Roman times it is one of the largest structures in Europe. Very particular is the legendary Carousel on Stilts, that sees two teams (representing the historic center and the new city) face each other in jousting. This tradition has been taking place since 1411. The city has asked that it be recognized among the Intangible Heritages of Humanity by UNESCO.
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Liège is the most populous city in Wallonia. It has an industrial aspect, but is home to several museums and churches. The city was, in fact, the seat of a Episcopal princedom, and the current palace of the prince-bishops was built during the Renaissance and currently houses the Palace of Justice and the provincial offices. Among the museums, those dedicated to the life and art of Wallonia are worth a visit, as well as the Cathedral of St. Paul, which replaced the previous Cathedral of St. Lambert as the seat of the local diocese in 1795, when the latter was destroyed as a symbol of the bishop's domination over the city.
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
In Belgium you will find many small towns that are worth a visit. Most of them retain buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, which was the golden age of this area thanks to the trade that took place in many cities. Particularly photogenic is Dinant, located along the Meuse River. Louvain, while rich in monuments, it is also known for its university in which the faculty are located in the castle of Arenberg (pictured) - you can tell me if they are not lucky! Mons is also worth a visit for its monuments and many museums.
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
Belgium is also quite known for its ancient abbeys. Although several were destroyed during the French Revolution, walking through their ruins still has its charm. An example of ruins to visit are those of the Aulne and Villers Abbeys, both located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia. The most interesting thing about Belgian abbeys
is that it is thanks to the monks that beer spread in the country. In fact, Saint Arnold convinced the population to drink beer instead of water during a plague epidemic in the Middle Ages, being that beer is boiled so it's often healthier than fresh water. As we will see later, Belgium is very famous nowadays for its beer production.
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
For castle lovers, Belgium offers many possibilities, from medieval castles (in ruins or not) to manors of the modern era. Many of these castles are located in the cities that have already been visited by us, but it is certainly worthwhile to go as far as Bouillon, seat of a semi-autonomous duchy until 1795. The first mention of the Bouillon Castle dates back to 988, although it was later destroyed by the emperor and rebuilt in 1065. The current structure, which was reputed to be impregnable, is affected by the various alterations made over the centuries, but it is nevertheless spectacular.
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
For military history enthusiasts, Belgium is almost a boon. In fact, in addition to the many castles and citadels, it also hosts several battlefields. Many date back to the two world wars and often house accurate museums that reconstruct the events of the place. There may also be war cemeteries nearby. Some battlefields are, however, older. In Kortrijk there is a museum that remembers the "Battle of the Golden Spurs", when in July 1302 the Flemings managed to defeat the French cavalry, then considered almost invincible. And how can we not mention Waterloo, the site of Napoleon's final defeat?
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
So far we have talked about monuments and museums, but we must remember two other Belgian excellences: beer and chocolate! In Belgium there are over 600 types of beers, some of which are exported all over the world: Stella Artois, for example, is based in Louvain. In addition to the industrial beers, there are also those of artisanal production and if desired, there is a specialized tour operator that offers tours on various local breweries. The most famous Belgian beers are the Trappist beers produced in six Cistercians Monasteries. Only twelve monasteries in the world are allowed to brew beer according to a strict protocol. Leffe is the best known. It was originally brewed in an abbey in the suburbs of Dinant, but the production now has an industrial character.
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Belgium and Switzerland are the chocolate countries par excellence, so you will find shops selling chocolate everywhere - take advantage of them! Know that Belgium is
best known for its pralines. These were invented in 1671 by the cook of the Count of Plessis-Praslin and entered the Belgian tradition in 1912. While in France the pralines are candies (usually a sugar-coated almond), in Belgium they are filled with creams, syrups, coffee, pistachios, etc. Then there are the classic chocolate bars and other products. Some Belgian brands are known all over the world such as Neuhaus,
Côte d'Or and Godiva just to name three. If you are interested, there are museums dedicated to chocolate both in Brussels and Bruges, though it is very likely that
there are other chocolate exhibitions scattered around Belgium.
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
While in Belgium you should seriously consider visiting nearby Luxembourg. This small state has a thousand-year history: the grand duchy was born in 1815 with the Congress of Vienna and until 1890 it was united with the Dutch crown. The state capital of the same name is a good starting point for visiting a country known for its castles (over a hundred!) and its vineyards. The districts of the old city and its fortifications have been a UNESCO Site since 1994. In summer it is normally possible to visit the renaissance Grand Ducal Palace, and the museum dedicated to the history of the city is interesting.
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
The town of Vianden is one of the most visited sites in Luxembourg thanks to its castle. Originally built in the 11th century, it underwent various changes until the 17th century. There is a curiosity regarding its possession: in 1417 the castle was inherited by the Nassau-Orange, who only in 1977 ceded it to Luxembourg. For the uninitiated, the Nassau-Orange are the rulers of the Netherlands. In the town there is also a museum dedicated to the French writer Victor Hugo, who spent his holidays here.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
ParticipantsAllie
Beth ~ Completed
Bev(baglady) ~ Completed
Book Concierge ~ Completed
Catsalive ~ Completed
Ed ~ Completed
Frankie ~ Completed
Jan ~ Completed
JoAnne ~ Completed
Jonquil ~ Completed
Karen ♐ ~ Completed
Kim ~ Completed
Meg ~ Completed
Olivermagnus ~ Completed
Patrizia ~ Completed
Sallie (GeorgiaGirl)
Tari ~ Completed
Teri-k ~ Completed
My SpotExploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
18/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (Vienna). Ecstasy | Mary Sharratt 9/15/21***
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE. Silverswift | Natalie Lloyd 9/16/21***
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum). Speaks the Nightbird | Robert R. McCammon 9/6/21**
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping. The Unhoneymooners | Christina Lauren 10/19/21***
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned ("we went to the Museum of Natural History"). Trans-Siberian Odyssey: 5,000 miles by train from Beijing to Moscow | Kate Young 9/4/21***
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover). The Watchman of Rothenburg Dies | Adriana Licio 10/2/21**
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES (Eli). The Linking Rings | John Gaspard 9/28/21****
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant (owns & runs an antique store). Up in Smoke | Shannon VanBergen 9/5/21**
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR. Magpie Murders | Anthony Horowitz 9/9/21****
* Read a book tagged CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage. The Sacrifice | Karin Kaufman 9/23/21****
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG (Eli) . The Floating Light Bulb | John Gaspard 9/30/21****
* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field (Maya is speech therapist in mental hospital). Leave No Trace | Mindy Mejia 9/24/21*****
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover). The Scholar | Dervla McTiernan 10/16/21****
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (Alex Ferris). Coercion | Tim Tigner 9/28/21***
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order). The Big Dreams Beach Hotel | Lilly Bartlett 9/1/21***
* Read a a book that you found "sweet" (sweet story about how stuffed animals help children with trauma in their lives). Oddkins: A Fable for All Ages | Dean Koontz 9/20/21***
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place. The Lager Queen of Minnesota | J. Ryan Stradal 9/20/21***
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who). Written Off | E.J. Copperman 9/24/21***
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
0/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text). The Wright Memorial at Kitty Hawk at Kill Devil Hills, was dedicated in 1932…
The Wright Brothers. David McCullough. 9.15.21
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
The Forgotten Road. Richard Paul Evans. 9.15.21
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how). saving seed from year to year was an important indigenous tradition
The Seed Keeper. Diane Wilson. 9.5.21
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Everything I Have Is Yours: A Marriage. Eleanor Henderson. 9.8.21
* Read a book about a book.
A Likely Story. Jenn McKinlay. 9.9.21
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES (Erica)
House Lessons: Renovating a Life. Erica Bauermeister. 9.1.21
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant
A Cup of Silver Linings. Karen Hawkins. 9.12.21
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Nothing to See Here. Kevin Wilson. 9.9.21
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage
Christmas in Winter Hill. Melody Carlson. 9.13.21
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher Melinda is a student
Speak. Laurie Halse Anderson. 9.14.21
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) Owen
Downsizing. Lin Stepp. 9.7.21
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
South of the Buttonwood Tree. Heather Webber. 9.5.21
* Read a a book that you found "sweet" (tell us briefly why). it was about people finding love and caring about each other
The Marriage Bureau for Rich People. Farahad Zama. 9.10.21
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
To Sir, With Love. E.R. Braithwaite. 9.15.21
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) (Bill Bryson - memoir)
I'm a Stranger Here Myself: Notes on Returning to America After Twenty Years Away. Bill Bryson. 9.18.21
Exploring BelgiumAugust 26, 2021-November 25, 2021
Choose a level:
Explorer: Complete 15 of the 20 tasks. You must complete at least one task per day.
15/15 Completed. Finished
*******************************************************************
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
01.Cynthia Eden-Step Into My Web 9/12
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
02.Run Girl Run-Willow Rose 10/08
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
03.Virtuous-M.S. Force 8/27
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
(355)
04.The Shark-Mary Burton 11/12
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES.
(Emmett Stone)
05.Tin Queen-Devney Perry 9/01
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
* Read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
06.The Devil Wears Black-L.J. Shen 11/16
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
07.Redeeming Love-Francine Rivers 9/05
* Read the second book in a series.
(Mercy Kilpatrick Series)
08.A Merciful Truth-Kendra Elliot 9/23
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
(Alace Sweets)
09.An Embarrassment of Monsters-MariaLisa deMora 9/02
* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
(Hope is a nurse)
10.Love After Dark-Marie Force 9/18
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who).
(MC Laric)
11.Inmate of the Month-Lani Lynn Vale 9/22
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
12.Broken Beasts-Sara C. Roethle 9/03
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
(MCs have tough childhood, second chance as adults, MC adopts other MCs child)
13.Dotted Lines-Devney Perry 8/26
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
14.Brittney Mulliner-Match Penalty 9/23
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
15.Celebration After Dark-Marie Force 9/18
Welcome Kim & Frankie! You were fast!
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
15/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
Paris (France) + many mentions of Tour Eiffel- Un giorno di sole a Parigi (=The Little Paris Patisserie) by Julie Caplin 3 September; 4☆
* Read book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Beyond a Reasonable Stout by Ellie Alexander 10 September; 5☆
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
A Study in Murder by Callie Hutton 14 September; 4☆
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Smoky Mountain Danger by April Arrington 12 October; 5☆
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
The Book Stops Here by Kate Carlisle 6 September; 5☆
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
Death of an Irish Mummy by Catie Murphy 2 October; 5☆
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Bree- Right Behind Her by Melinda Leigh 23 September; 5☆
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
she restores old abandoned objects, often finding a new use for them- Cowboy Tough by Stacy Finz 8 October; 5☆
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Murder in Galway by Carlene O'Connor 27 September; 4☆
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
Nothing Short of Wondrous by Regina Scott 8 September; 4 1/2☆
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG.
MC is a teacher and has six students- Tails, You Lose by Carol J. Perry 6 October; 5☆
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Todd (MS's boyfriend) is a paramedic (and a firefighter)- No Man's Land by Sara Driscoll 20 October; 5☆
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
MCs and many characters are soldiers- Il prezzo dell’assoluzione (=Fighting Absolution) by Kate McCarthy 13 September; 5☆
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Closely Harbored Secrets by Bree Baker 18 September; 5☆
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
female MC is a ghostwriter- In Other Words, Love by Shirley Jump 16 September; 4 1/2☆
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
Daytripper: Complete one task per day for a total of 10 tasks.
10/10
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE. - Doubly Claimed C.D. Gorri - 9/5
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum). - On a Tuesday Whitney G. - 9/18
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS. - Surrender Melody Anne - 9/9
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) -
A.J. Harmon - 9/2* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) - Painter - Empress in Lingerie Penelope Sky - 10/22
* Read a bookwhose title starts with a letter in NAMUR. - Masters Of My Desire Jenna Jacob - 9/13
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG . - Nick - Fatal Accusation Marie Force - 9/9
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) - Carter - Lieutenant Lesli Richardson - 9/23
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order). - Sir Loin of Beef Vanessa Vale - 9/29
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG. - Cross Her Heart Melinda Leigh - 9/24
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
20 of 15 Complete
Day 1: Brussels
🍢 Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where).
Mr. Churchill's Secretary - Susan Elia MacNeal - 11/8/21 - set in London, England
🍢 Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Before She Disappeared - Lisa Gardner - 9/15/21 - LG
Day 2: Brussels
🍢 Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
Lie to Me - J.T. Ellison - 9/23/21 - LTM
🍢 Read a book with a royal character (tell us who)
The Memoirs of Cleopatra - Margaret George - 9/16/21 - Cleopatra
Day 3: Anvers
🍢 Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Vicious Circle - C.J. Box - 9/2/21 - V
🍢 Read a book about a book.
The Book Thief - Markus Zusak - 9/14/21
Day 4: Ghent
🍢 Read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz - Erik Larson - 11/6/21 - 585 pages
🍢 Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES.
Ms. Gloria Steinem: A Life - Winifred Conkling - 10/11/21 - Gloria
Day 5: Bruges
🍢 Read a book where the MC is a merchant.
If You've Got It, Haunt It - Rose Pressey Betancourt - 10/2/21 - Cookie Chanel owns a vintage clothing store
🍢 Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do).
Twenty Centavos - John Scherber - 10/8/21 - MC Paul Zacher is an artist
Day 6: Namur and Liège
🍢 Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Malibu Rising - Taylor Jenkins Reid - 9/18/21 - M
🍢 Read a the second book in a series.
Tell Me - Anne Frasier - 9/19/21 - #2 Inland Empire
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
🍢 Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher
The Art of Fielding - Chad Harbach - 9/17/21 - set at Westish College
🍢 Read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
An Unmarked Grave - Charles Todd - 9/24/21 - MC Bess Crawford is a WWI nurse
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
🍢 Read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
The Cellist - Daniel Silva - 11/17/21 - page 415 - "Germany's biggest lender, knowingly or unknowingly, was a silent partner in Vladimir Putin's war against the West and liberal democracy"
🍢 Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who).
No Mercy - Lori G. Armstrong - 11/23/21 - Mercy Gunderson is an Army sniper
Day 9: Belgian specialties
🍢 Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count.
Wild Animal School - Jenny Lynne - 10/27/21 - 160 pages
🍢 Read a book that you found "sweet" (tell us briefly why).
It's a Wonderful Woof - Spencer Quinn - 11/29/21 - Narrated by Chet the dog whose love for Bernie is overwhelming but definitely sweet.
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
🍢 Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
What Alice Forgot - Liane Moriarty - 9/4/21 - LM
🍢 Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
Survive the Night - Riley Sager - 10/6/21 - STN
Enjoy your visit Karen and Lynda!
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 01 - November 30, 2021
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (London)
A Useful Woman, Darcie Wilde 09/16* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover
Halloween Hayride Murder, Linnea West 10/19Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
Open and Shut, David Rosenfelt 09/08* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot. (view spoiler)
Murder in the Corn Maze, G.A. McKevett 09/05 Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping
People We Meet on Vacation, Emily Henry 09/03* Read a book about a book.
The Lies That Bind, Kate Carlisle 09/06Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover.
Deadly Odds,Zelda White 10/05* Read a book with a character who is very religious. (MC is a monk)
The Leper of Saint Giles, Ellis Peters 09/22Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant
Classic Death, Beate Boeker 09/03* Read a book with food on the cover.
Till Death Do Us Tart, Ellie Alexander 10/10Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (watching 4th of July fireworks on blankets with a picnic potluck)
Chaotic Corgis, Mildred Abbott 09/10* Read the second book in a series.
Seashells and Murder, H.Y. Hanna 09/04Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher .
Murder Most Fowl, Donna Andrews 09/01* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field (Dr. Jagai).
Murder on the Flying Scotsman, Carola Dunn 09/10Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover
The Curse of Braeburn Castle, Karen Baugh Menuhin 10/14* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (Archie aka the Chief Inspector)
Fear in the Sunlight, Nicola Upson 09/06Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Boston Scream Murder, Ginger Bolton 10/28* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts
Macarons and Mayhem. Agatha Frost 09/13Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place.
Long Island Iced Tina, Maria DiRico 09/25* Read a book with a character who is a writer (MC).
Wed, Read & Dead, V.M. Burns 09/27
Exploring BELGIUMBegins: 01Sep21 / Ends: 30Nov21
20 / 15 tasks completed
10 / 10 days toured
✔ Day 1: Brussels
Capital of the European Union * Read a book where a famous monument is mentioned - Pg 151 - "…very moved at the sight of the Christ the Redeemer statue,…" (Rio de Jainero statue) - Once Upon a Time in Rio ✔ – 07Sep21
The Grand Place * Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE - A N - Azar Nafisi / Things I've Been Silent About ✔ – 30Oct21
✔ Day 2: Brussels Museums
The Belgian Comic Strip Center * Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER - S M T P - Save Me the Plums ✔ – 03Sep21
The Domaine Royal de Laeken * Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot - Circe relies on plants (view spoiler) in Circe ✔ – 11Oct21
✔ Day 3: Anvers
An important commercial center * Read a book where the characters go shopping - The Wedding Date ✔ – 02Sep21
The Plantin-Moretusmuseum * Read a book where a museum is mentioned - pg 65 - "…at the Boca Raton Museum of Art." - Young Jane Young ✔ – 16Oct21
✔ Day 4: Ghent
The Belfort * Read a book with two 5's in its page count - 355 p - How the Penguins Saved Veronica ✔ – 14Nov21
Three Beguinages * Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES - ERSKINE Powell is mc in Malice in the Highlands ✔ – 14Sep21
✔ Day 5: Bruges
Center of commercial exchange * Read a book where the MC is a merchant - Evie runs a bookstore in Much Ado About You ✔ – 06Dec21
The Groeningemuseum * Food on cover -
✔ – 01Oct21 ✔ Day 6: Namur and Liège
Carousel on Stilts * Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place - pg 119 - "Passover was always at the Alvarados. It was all about tradition. Thirty or so family memberrs and friends gathered every year to conduct the same rituals, sing the same songs, and eat the same food." - L.A. Weather ✔ – 17Sep21
Seat of a Episcopal princedom * Read the second book in a series - Thirteen Hours ✔ – 27Oct21
✔ Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
Castle of Arenberg * Read a book with a character who is a student - Peekay in The Power of One ✔ – 18Sep21
Ancient abbeys * Read a book with a character who works in the medical field - Clara is a nurse in A Fall of Marigolds ✔ – 20Oct21
✔ Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
Medieval castles * Read a book where a ruler is mentioned - pg 99 - "…claimed this land for His Majesty King George along with…" - Stowaway ✔ – 01Sep21
Military history * Read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage - Send for Me ✔ – 15Sep21
✔ Day 9: Belgian specialties
Beer * Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count - 560 pg - Keeping the House ✔ – 16Oct21
Chocolate * Read a a book that features desserts - (Auth is a pastry chef) - Lisa Donovan / Our Lady of Perpetual Hunger ✔ – 04Nov21
✔ Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
The state capital of the same name * Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG - E B - Elizabeth Berg / What We Keep ✔ – 25Sep21
The town of Vianden * Read a book with a character who is a writer - Casey, Oscar, Muriel and Silas are all writers in Writers & Lovers ✔ – 08Sep21
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
0/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum)
*****COMPLETED 3/2/22*****Exploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
15/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) -London- Martin Chuzzlewit by Charles Dickens-11/26/21-
OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) - The Red House Mystery by A.A. Milne-12/21/21-
OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).- A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth-.-9/17/21-
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.- Abbott by Saladin Ahmed-9/8/21
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.-p.111- Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide-"A museum for Morton Salt,, North America's largest producer, the palace boasts..." 1/13/22
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES -Scheherazade in Arabian Nights: More Marvels and Wonders of the Thousand and One Nights, Volume II of II by Jack D. Zipes-10/13/21-
OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant -MC opens a bookshop in The Bookshop by Penelope Fitzgerald12/23/21
OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.- A Life on Our Planet: My Witness Statement and a Vision for the Future by David Attenborough 12/1/21
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.-series #2- Jazz by Toni Morrison
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG . Nishi in Spring Garden by Tomoka Shibasaki- 12/1/21
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier -Major Grantley in The Last Chronicle of Barset by Anthony Trollope-10/29/21-
or a veteran (tell us who) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count -160p.- God in Pink by Hasan Namir-12/8/21
OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).- family memories...funny, harsh and sweet- Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denimby David Sedaris-1/7/22-
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.- Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M.C. Beaton-3/2/22
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
20/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where).
The Night of Four Hundred Rabbits by Elizabeth Peters 9/26
Mexico City
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie 9/13
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie 9/5
* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Howards End by E.M. Forster 9/18
The wych elm is important in plot and symbolically through the book.
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré 9/10
* Read a book about a book.
How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster 10/1
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover).
by Alexandre Dumas 10/17* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES.
The Inimitable Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse 9/10
Bertie
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the characters take a cruise.
The Golden Rendezvous by Alistair MacLean 10/28
* Read a book book with food on the cover (post the cover).
by Laura Marx Fitzgerald 10/13Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Mythos: The Greek Myths Reimagined by Stephen Fry 9/8
* Read the second book in a series.
Henry IV, Part 1 by William Shakespeare 9/15
War of the Roses #2
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
Evelyn False Colours by Georgette Heyer 9/11
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens).
The Hit by David Baldacci 9/8
At least one building is blown up.
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
Richard II by William Shakespeare 9/7
Play is about King Richard being deposed.
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who).
True Grit by Charles Portis 9/22
Rooster Cogburn and LaBoeuf are veterans of the Civil War.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
The Year of Reading Dangerously: How Fifty Great Books (and Two Not-So-Great Ones) Saved My Life by Andy Miller 9/4
* Read a book that you found "sweet" (tell us briefly why).
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery 9/7
It's like a fairy tale. "Once upon a time an orphan girl with red hair and freckles arrived at Green Gables..." :)
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand 9/13
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
Enchanted Ever After by Shanna Swendson 9/18
Hope you enjoy the challenge Teri!
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
10/10 Daytripper
Day 1 Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover)
Teri Barnett 9/6/21OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
RBTC-Reading Between the Crimes Kate Young 9/7/21
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Sweet Fire and Stone J.A. Whiting 9/9/21
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Bernie-Deadly Delivery Tonya Kappes 9/2/21
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
She's a bookseller-Publishable by Death A.C.F.Bookens 9/11/21
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
#2 Beloved Bookroom-A Perfect Bind Dorothy St. James 9/18/21
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG.
Bizzy-Puppy Love and Peril T.J. Costello 9/8/21
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who)
Schaeffer-Buried in the Sand T.J. Costello 9/10/21
OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
* Read a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
Cake Tastings and Killers A.R. Winters 9/13/21
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
Jacquie, John Maxwell's ex-wife is a romance writer-The Coloring Crook Krista Davis 9/15/21
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1 - November 30, 2021
15/15 DONE
Day 1: Brussels
* set in a capital city London and a famous monument is mentioned 10 Downing Street loc 235 "Parliament was attacked" loc 943 The Sixth Day Catherine Coulter 9/21
* house or houses on the cover Barbara Petty 9/11
Day 2: Brussels
* first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER No Grater Crime Maddie Day 9/7
* royal character Alec's Royal Assignment Amelia Autin 9/6
Day 3: Anvers
* the characters go shopping - for groceries Cold Case True Crime Denise N. Wheatley 9/30
* book about a book The Stolen Letter Paige Shelton 9/11
Day 4: Ghent
* tower on cover Emma Jameson 9/16
* MC's first name starts a letter found in BEGUINES Ember Burns Man's Best Alibi Tara Meyers 9/22
Day 5: Bruges
* MC is a merchant Little Bookshop of Murder Maggie Blackburn 9/19
* an artist MC AND food on the cover Claire Luana 9/12
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* second book in a series (Vintage Toyshop Mystery #2) Murder on the Toy Town Express Barbara Early 9/27
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* character who works in the medical field male MC The Temptation of Dr. Colton Karen Whiddon 9/29
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* character who is a veteran - MC Murder on Black Swan Lane Andrea Penrose 9/14
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* features chocolate or desserts Dark Chocolate Demise Jenn McKinlay 9/2
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* title is the name of a person or a place Coral Cottage Jan Moran 9/1
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
0/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
WC Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
Read: 19/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city.
Panama City, Panama Duel to the Death J.A. Jance 10/13/21
* Read a book with a house on the cover.
The Sunrise Cove Inn Katie Winters 9/14/21Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
Sea Glass Cottage Vickie McKeehan 9/19/21
* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Bodie loves plants and gardening. She hopes to get her dream job at The Plant Habitat. The Boathouse Vickie McKeehan 9/27/21
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Edge of the Heat Lisa Ladew 9/11/21
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned.
p 301 Try to picture that big-ass canoe on display in the foyer of the newly remodeled Pelican Pointe Museum. Starlight Dunes Vickie McKeehan 9/4/21
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES.
Grace High Tide Jill Sanders 9/17/21
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the characters take a cruise.
The Summer Cottage Viola Shipman 10/8/21
* Read a book with an artist MC.
Lucien makes handmade furniture. The Beachcomber Vickie McKeehan 9/28/21
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
August Sunsets Katie Winters 9/15/21
* Read a book tagged CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage.
Pelican Point Irene Hannon 9/7/21
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a bookwhose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG.
Rian I Flipping Love You Helena Hunting 9/9/21
* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field.
Mac is a doctor. The One You're With Lauren K. Denton 9/3/21
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover.
Sandcastles Under the Christmas Moon Vickie McKeehan 9/23/21* Read a book with a character who is a veteran.
Simon Keeping Cape Summer Vickie McKeehan 9/25/21
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Alaska Skies: Brides for Brothers / The Marriage Risk Debbie Macomber 9/17/21
* Read a a book that features desserts.
Saving Sandcastles Meredith Summers 9/2/21
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person.
Carter Reed Tijan 9/12/21
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
A Vineyard Lullaby Katie Winters 9/20/21
Glad you are joining us Allie & JoAnne!!
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where)
Nina George 10/15/2021 Paris* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover)
John Grisham 10/14/2021Day 2: Brussels
* read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
Kwame Dawes 09/22/2021* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who)
Roshani Chokshi 10/06/2021 Queen Imelda King Ambrose Day 3: Anvers
* read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Scott McCormick 09/03/2021* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
T.J. Green 11/16/2021 grimoires and spell booksDay 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover)
Kristin Hannah 10/19/2021* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES
Paulo Coelho 10/15/2021 MC - SantiagoDay 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
Carla Neggers 02/09/2022 Annie owns an art gallery* read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Kelly Harms 09/07/2021Day 6: Namur and Liège
* read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Samantha Chase 09/14/2021*read the second book in a series.
Nick Offerman 10/05/2021 Series book #2Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
George Orwell 09/15/2021 MC - Napoleon, Boxer*read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Dawn Eastman 10/12/2021 Dr. Katie LeClairDay 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
Ruth Cowen 10/28/2021* Read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Kristin Hannah 10/19/2021Day 9: Belgian specialties
* read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Stephanie Evanovich 10/11/2021* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
Karen Schaler 12/07/2022 your basic christmas romance. Rachel comes home for christmas because of a mysterious christmas card she recieves. runs into old flame Matt who helps her follow the clues and they fall in love againDay 10: Extension to Luxembourg
*read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
Erik German 10/17/2021* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
L. Frank Baum 09/17/2021
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1, 2021 - September 18, 2021
15/15
Complete!
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text). The Wright Memorial at Kitty Hawk at Kill Devil Hills, was dedicated in 1932…
The Wright Brothers. David McCullough. 9.15.21
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
The Forgotten Road. Richard Paul Evans. 9.15.21
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how). saving seed from year to year was an important indigenous tradition
The Seed Keeper. Diane Wilson. 9.5.21
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Everything I Have Is Yours: A Marriage. Eleanor Henderson. 9.8.21
* Read a book about a book.
A Likely Story. Jenn McKinlay. 9.9.21
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES (Erica)
House Lessons: Renovating a Life. Erica Bauermeister. 9.1.21
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant
A Cup of Silver Linings. Karen Hawkins. 9.12.21
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Nothing to See Here. Kevin Wilson. 9.9.21
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage
Christmas in Winter Hill. Melody Carlson. 9.13.21
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher Melinda is a student
Speak. Laurie Halse Anderson. 9.14.21
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) Owen
Downsizing. Lin Stepp. 9.7.21
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
South of the Buttonwood Tree. Heather Webber. 9.5.21
* Read a a book that you found "sweet" (tell us briefly why). it was about people finding love and caring about each other
The Marriage Bureau for Rich People. Farahad Zama. 9.10.21
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
To Sir, With Love. E.R. Braithwaite. 9.15.21
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) (Bill Bryson - memoir)
I'm a Stranger Here Myself: Notes on Returning to America After Twenty Years Away. Bill Bryson. 9.18.21
That was fast Kim! Impressive job :)
Jan wrote: "That was fast Kim! Impressive job :)"Thanks, I was able to slot each book I've read this month.
Finished, DaytripperExploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
10/10 Daytripper
Day 1 Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover)
Teri Barnett 9/6/21OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
RBTC-Reading Between the Crimes Kate Young 9/7/21
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Sweet Fire and Stone J.A. Whiting 9/9/21
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Bernie-Deadly Delivery Tonya Kappes 9/2/21
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
She's a bookseller-Publishable by Death A.C.F.Bookens 9/11/21
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
#2 Beloved Bookroom-A Perfect Bind Dorothy St. James 9/18/21
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG.
Bizzy-Puppy Love and Peril T.J. Costello 9/8/21
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who)
Schaeffer-Buried in the Sand T.J. Costello 9/10/21
OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
* Read a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
Cake Tastings and Killers A.R. Winters 9/13/21
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
Jacquie, John Maxwell's ex-wife is a romance writer-The Coloring Crook Krista Davis 9/15/21
Another quick finisher! Great job Tari!
Jan wrote: "Another quick finisher! Great job Tari!"Thanks, Jan!
Exploring BelgiumSeptember 1 - November 30, 2021
15/15 DONE
Day 1: Brussels
* set in a capital city London and a famous monument is mentioned 10 Downing Street loc 235 "Parliament was attacked" loc 943 The Sixth Day Catherine Coulter 9/21
* house or houses on the cover Barbara Petty 9/11
Day 2: Brussels
* first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER No Grater Crime Maddie Day 9/7
* royal character Alec's Royal Assignment Amelia Autin 9/6
Day 3: Anvers
* the characters go shopping - for groceries Cold Case True Crime Denise N. Wheatley 9/30
* book about a book The Stolen Letter Paige Shelton 9/11
Day 4: Ghent
* tower on cover Emma Jameson 9/16
* MC's first name starts a letter found in BEGUINES Ember Burns Man's Best Alibi Tara Meyers 9/22
Day 5: Bruges
* MC is a merchant Little Bookshop of Murder Maggie Blackburn 9/19
* an artist MC AND food on the cover Claire Luana 9/12
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* second book in a series (Vintage Toyshop Mystery #2) Murder on the Toy Town Express Barbara Early 9/27
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* character who works in the medical field male MC The Temptation of Dr. Colton Karen Whiddon 9/29
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* character who is a veteran - MC Murder on Black Swan Lane Andrea Penrose 9/14
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* features chocolate or desserts Dark Chocolate Demise Jenn McKinlay 9/2
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* title is the name of a person or a place Coral Cottage Jan Moran 9/1
Done!Exploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
15/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
Paris (France) + many mentions of Tour Eiffel- Un giorno di sole a Parigi (=The Little Paris Patisserie) by Julie Caplin 3 September; 4☆
* Read book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Beyond a Reasonable Stout by Ellie Alexander 10 September; 5☆
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
A Study in Murder by Callie Hutton 14 September; 4☆
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Smoky Mountain Danger by April Arrington 12 October; 5☆
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
The Book Stops Here by Kate Carlisle 6 September; 5☆
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
Death of an Irish Mummy by Catie Murphy 2 October; 5☆
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Bree- Right Behind Her by Melinda Leigh 23 September; 5☆
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).
she restores old abandoned objects, often finding a new use for them- Cowboy Tough by Stacy Finz 8 October; 5☆
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (tell us which one) OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Murder in Galway by Carlene O'Connor 27 September; 4☆
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
Nothing Short of Wondrous by Regina Scott 8 September; 4 1/2☆
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher OR read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG.
MC is a teacher and has six students- Tails, You Lose by Carol J. Perry 6 October; 5☆
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens) OR read a book with a character who works in the medical field (tell us who).
Todd (MS's boyfriend) is a paramedic (and a firefighter)- No Man's Land by Sara Driscoll 20 October; 5☆
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover) OR read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) OR read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage.
MCs and many characters are soldiers- Il prezzo dell’assoluzione (=Fighting Absolution) by Kate McCarthy 13 September; 5☆
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count OR read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Closely Harbored Secrets by Bree Baker 18 September; 5☆
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts OR read a book that you found "sweet"
(tell us briefly why).
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
female MC is a ghostwriter- In Other Words, Love by Shirley Jump 16 September; 4 1/2☆
Terrific challenge work Patrizia!
Finished!Exploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
18/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (Vienna). Ecstasy | Mary Sharratt 9/15/21***
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE. Silverswift | Natalie Lloyd 9/16/21***
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum). Speaks the Nightbird | Robert R. McCammon 9/6/21**
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping. The Unhoneymooners | Christina Lauren 10/19/21***
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned ("we went to the Museum of Natural History"). Trans-Siberian Odyssey: 5,000 miles by train from Beijing to Moscow | Kate Young 9/4/21***
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover). The Watchman of Rothenburg Dies | Adriana Licio 10/2/21**
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES (Eli). The Linking Rings | John Gaspard 9/28/21****
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant (owns & runs an antique store). Up in Smoke | Shannon VanBergen 9/5/21**
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR. Magpie Murders | Anthony Horowitz 9/9/21****
* Read a book tagged CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage. The Sacrifice | Karin Kaufman 9/23/21****
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG (Eli) . The Floating Light Bulb | John Gaspard 9/30/21****
* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field (Maya is speech therapist in mental hospital). Leave No Trace | Mindy Mejia 9/24/21*****
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover (post cover). The Scholar | Dervla McTiernan 10/16/21****
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (Alex Ferris). Coercion | Tim Tigner 9/28/21***
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order). The Big Dreams Beach Hotel | Lilly Bartlett 9/1/21***
* Read a a book that you found "sweet" (sweet story about how stuffed animals help children with trauma in their lives). Oddkins: A Fable for All Ages | Dean Koontz 9/20/21***
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place. The Lager Queen of Minnesota | J. Ryan Stradal 9/20/21***
* Read a book with a character who is a writer (tell us who). Written Off | E.J. Copperman 9/24/21***
Update message # 15 - Challenge completed - 20Oct21(Though I'll keep trying to fill all 20 of the tasks)
Exploring BELGIUM
Begins: 01Sep21 / Ends: 30Nov21
15 / 15 tasks completed
10 / 10 days toured
✔ Day 1: Brussels
Capital of the European Union * Read a book where a famous monument is mentioned - Pg 151 - "…very moved at the sight of the Christ the Redeemer statue,…" (Rio de Jainero statue) - Once Upon a Time in Rio ✔ – 07Sep21
The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels. It is surrounded by the Guild Houses, which are home to the associations that bring together those belonging to the same profession.
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
✔ Day 2: Brussels Museums
The Belgian Comic Strip Center * Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER - S M T P - Save Me the Plums ✔ – 03Sep21
The Domaine Royal de Laeken * Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot - Circe relies on plants (view spoiler) in Circe ✔ – 11Oct21
✔ Day 3: Anvers
An important commercial center * Read a book where the characters go shopping - The Wedding Date ✔ – 02Sep21
The Plantin-Moretusmuseum * Read a book where a museum is mentioned - pg 65 - "…at the Boca Raton Museum of Art." - Young Jane Young ✔ – 16Oct21
✔ Day 4: Ghent
Ghent, which arose at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers. Once one of the most populous cities in all of Europe, it began its decline after revolting against Spanish rule in 1550. Symbol of the municipal power of the medieval city is the Belfort (bell tower), which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
Three Beguinages * Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES - ERSKINE Powell is mc in Malice in the Highlands ✔ – 14Sep21
✔ Day 5: Bruges
Bruges saw its golden age between the 12th and 15th centuries, when it became a very important center of commercial exchange, thanks to the Zwin Canal that connected it to the North Sea. Cruises on the canal is an activity that a tourist must do to admire the city from a different perspective.
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
The Groeningemuseum * Food on cover -
✔ – 01Oct21 ✔ Day 6: Namur and Liège
Carousel on Stilts * Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place - pg 119 - "Passover was always at the Alvarados. It was all about tradition. Thirty or so family memberrs and friends gathered every year to conduct the same rituals, sing the same songs, and eat the same food." - L.A. Weather ✔ – 17Sep21
Liège is the most populous city in Wallonia. It has an industrial aspect, but is home to several museums and churches. The city was, in fact, the seat of a Episcopal princedom, and the current palace of the prince-bishops was built during the Renaissance and currently houses the Palace of Justice and the provincial offices.
* Read a book tagged RELIGION or CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage OR read the second book in a series.
✔ Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
Castle of Arenberg * Read a book with a character who is a student - Peekay in The Power of One ✔ – 18Sep21
Ancient abbeys * Read a book with a character who works in the medical field - Clara is a nurse in A Fall of Marigolds ✔ – 20Oct21
✔ Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
Medieval castles * Read a book where a ruler is mentioned - pg 99 - "…claimed this land for His Majesty King George along with…" - Stowaway ✔ – 01Sep21
Military history * Read a book tagged WAR on its GR homepage - Send for Me ✔ – 15Sep21
✔ Day 9: Belgian specialties
Beer * Read a book with 6 AND 0 in its page count - 560 pg - Keeping the House ✔ – 16Oct21
Chocolate
* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts -
✔ Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
The state capital of the same name * Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG - E B - Elizabeth Berg / What We Keep ✔ – 25Sep21
The town of Vianden * Read a book with a character who is a writer - Casey, Oscar, Muriel and Silas are all writers in Writers & Lovers ✔ – 08Sep21
I'm done with Belgium!Exploring Belgium
September 01 - November 30, 2021
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (London)
A Useful Woman, Darcie Wilde 09/16* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover
Halloween Hayride Murder, Linnea West 10/19Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
Open and Shut, David Rosenfelt 09/08* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot. (view spoiler)
Murder in the Corn Maze, G.A. McKevett 09/05 Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book where the characters go shopping
People We Meet on Vacation, Emily Henry 09/03* Read a book about a book.
The Lies That Bind, Kate Carlisle 09/06Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover.
Deadly Odds,Zelda White 10/05* Read a book with a character who is very religious. (MC is a monk)
The Leper of Saint Giles, Ellis Peters 09/22Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant
Classic Death, Beate Boeker 09/03* Read a book with food on the cover.
Till Death Do Us Tart, Ellie Alexander 10/10Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book in which a particular tradition takes place (watching 4th of July fireworks on blankets with a picnic potluck)
Chaotic Corgis, Mildred Abbott 09/10* Read the second book in a series.
Seashells and Murder, H.Y. Hanna 09/04Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book with a character who is a student or a teacher .
Murder Most Fowl, Donna Andrews 09/01* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field (Dr. Jagai).
Murder on the Flying Scotsman, Carola Dunn 09/10Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover
The Curse of Braeburn Castle, Karen Baugh Menuhin 10/14* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (Archie aka the Chief Inspector)
Fear in the Sunlight, Nicola Upson 09/06Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Boston Scream Murder, Ginger Bolton 10/28* Read a a book that features chocolate or desserts
Macarons and Mayhem. Agatha Frost 09/13Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person or a place.
Long Island Iced Tina, Maria DiRico 09/25* Read a book with a character who is a writer (MC).
Wed, Read & Dead, V.M. Burns 09/27
I'm finished. I finally found a book where they go on a cruise! Not quite what they were expecting - but it's a good story. :)Exploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - October 19, 2021
20/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where).
The Night of Four Hundred Rabbits by Elizabeth Peters 9/26
Mexico City
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie 9/13
Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
The ABC Murders by Agatha Christie 9/5
* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Howards End by E.M. Forster 9/18
The wych elm is important in plot and symbolically through the book.
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré 9/10
* Read a book about a book.
How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster 10/1
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover).
by Alexandre Dumas 10/17* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES.
The Inimitable Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse 9/10
Bertie
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the characters take a cruise.
The Golden Rendezvous by Alistair MacLean 10/28
* Read a book book with food on the cover (post the cover).
by Laura Marx Fitzgerald 10/13Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
Mythos: The Greek Myths Reimagined by Stephen Fry 9/8
* Read the second book in a series.
Henry IV, Part 1 by William Shakespeare 9/15
War of the Roses #2
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG .
Evelyn False Colours by Georgette Heyer 9/11
* Read a book where something is destroyed (tell us briefly what happens).
The Hit by David Baldacci 9/8
At least one building is blown up.
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book where a ruler is mentioned (share text).
Richard II by William Shakespeare 9/7
Play is about King Richard being deposed.
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who).
True Grit by Charles Portis 9/22
Rooster Cogburn and LaBoeuf are veterans of the Civil War.
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
The Year of Reading Dangerously: How Fifty Great Books (and Two Not-So-Great Ones) Saved My Life by Andy Miller 9/4
* Read a book that you found "sweet" (tell us briefly why).
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery 9/7
It's like a fairy tale. "Once upon a time an orphan girl with red hair and freckles arrived at Green Gables..." :)
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG.
Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand 9/13
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
Enchanted Ever After by Shanna Swendson 9/18
Finished!Exploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - November 30, 2021
Daytripper: Complete one task per day for a total of 10 tasks.
10/10
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE. - Doubly Claimed C.D. Gorri - 9/5
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum). - On a Tuesday Whitney G. - 9/18
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS. - Surrender Melody Anne - 9/9
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) -
A.J. Harmon - 9/2* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) - Painter - Empress in Lingerie Penelope Sky - 10/22
* Read a bookwhose title starts with a letter in NAMUR. - Masters Of My Desire Jenna Jacob - 9/13
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG . - Nick - Fatal Accusation Marie Force - 9/9
* Read a book with a character who is a soldier or a veteran (tell us who) - Carter - Lieutenant Lesli Richardson - 9/23
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order). - Sir Loin of Beef Vanessa Vale - 9/29
* Read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in LUXEMBOURG. - Cross Her Heart Melinda Leigh - 9/24
I kept waiting for that last one, then realized I was done and I did not need it!!FINISHED
WC Exploring Belgium
September 1, 2021 - October 13, 2021
Read: 19/15
Day 1: Brussels
* Read a book set in a capital city.
Panama City, Panama Duel to the Death J.A. Jance 10/13/21
* Read a book with a house on the cover.
The Sunrise Cove Inn Katie Winters 9/14/21Day 2: Brussels
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
Sea Glass Cottage Vickie McKeehan 9/19/21
* Read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Bodie loves plants and gardening. She hopes to get her dream job at The Plant Habitat. The Boathouse Vickie McKeehan 9/27/21
Day 3: Anvers
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
Edge of the Heat Lisa Ladew 9/11/21
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned.
p 301 Try to picture that big-ass canoe on display in the foyer of the newly remodeled Pelican Pointe Museum. Starlight Dunes Vickie McKeehan 9/4/21
Day 4: Ghent
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES.
Grace High Tide Jill Sanders 9/17/21
Day 5: Bruges
* Read a book where the characters take a cruise.
The Summer Cottage Viola Shipman 10/8/21
* Read a book with an artist MC.
Lucien makes handmade furniture. The Beachcomber Vickie McKeehan 9/28/21
Day 6: Namur and Liège
* Read a book whose title starts with a letter in NAMUR.
August Sunsets Katie Winters 9/15/21
* Read a book tagged CHRISTIAN in its GR homepage.
Pelican Point Irene Hannon 9/7/21
Day 7: Towns and Abbeys
* Read a bookwhose MC's first name starts with a letter found in ARENBERG.
Rian I Flipping Love You Helena Hunting 9/9/21
* Read a book with a character who works in the medical field.
Mac is a doctor. The One You're With Lauren K. Denton 9/3/21
Day 8: Castles and Battlefields
* Read a book with a castle-like building on the cover.
Sandcastles Under the Christmas Moon Vickie McKeehan 9/23/21* Read a book with a character who is a veteran.
Simon Keeping Cape Summer Vickie McKeehan 9/25/21
Day 9: Belgian specialties
* Read a book where all the letters of BEER can be found in its title (in any order).
Alaska Skies: Brides for Brothers / The Marriage Risk Debbie Macomber 9/17/21
* Read a a book that features desserts.
Saving Sandcastles Meredith Summers 9/2/21
Day 10: Extension to Luxembourg
* Read a book whose title is the name of a person.
Carter Reed Tijan 9/12/21
* Read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in CASTLE OF VIANDEN (three words minimum).
A Vineyard Lullaby Katie Winters 9/20/21
Wanderlust Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Autumn Glory and Other Stories (other topics)The Unexpected Guest (other topics)
Away With The Fairies (other topics)
Cousin Nancy (other topics)
The Scandalous Wager (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Barbara Metzger (other topics)Alberta Sinclair (other topics)
Hania Allen (other topics)
Kerry Greenwood (other topics)
Enid Blyton (other topics)
More...
3 Months from Start
Let's explore Belgium together! It may be a small country, but it is very interesting for a tourist: read to believe!
✱ Divided for much of the Middle Ages between the County of Flanders and the Duchy of Brabant, then unified under the Duchy of Burgundy, present-day Belgium saw the light in 1830 when it became independent from the Netherlands, choosing Leopold of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha as king (an uncle of Queen Victoria).
✱ This nation is bilingual, being Flanders with a majority Flemish language (a variant of Dutch) while the rest of the country is French-speaking.
Choose a level:
Daytripper: Complete one task per day for a total of 10 tasks.
Explorer: Complete 15 of the 20 tasks. You must complete at least one task per day.
Challenge Rules: All forms of books are accepted as long as they are 100 pages or more. When posting updates of completed books, please include a link to the title and author’s name, along with the date you finished reading the book. Please post cover if it is task appropriate. When you have completed the challenge, please copy and paste your entire challenge and repost in a new message, letting us know it is completed.
*Created by Patrizia. Please note: the challenge was translated using Google translate.
*******************************************************************
Day 1: Brussels
Brussels was founded in the sixth century. It became the capital of the Habsburg Netherlands in 1477 and, since 1830, it has been the capital of Belgium. Many of the organizations of the European Union are based here, so much so that it is considered its capital. Its two symbolic monuments are the Manneken Pis and the Atomium. The latter, built for the 1958 Expo, represents an iron atom. All nine spheres are connected by escalators or elevators, although the upper three are closed to the public. Inside there is also a panoramic restaurant. The Manneken Pis is the bronze statue of a child who pees and represents the independence of spirit of the inhabitants of this city. It is one of the most photographed places by tourists. On special occasions the child is dressed in outfits to fit the occasion. Some of the clothes in his wardrobe are very old and there are over eight hundred different outfits!
* Read a book set in a capital city (tell us where) OR read a book where a famous monument is mentioned (share the text).
The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels. It is surrounded by the Guild Houses, which are home to the associations that bring together those belonging to the same profession. Two other important monuments that overlook it are the Maison du Roi
and the Hotel de Ville. The Maison du Roi was originally intended for the sale of bread (as deduced from its Flemish name, Broodhuis, meaning "house of bread"). Today this beautiful building serves as a museum. The Hotel de Ville, the city's Town Hall, was built between 1405 and 1455 and is considered one of the most beautiful public buildings in Europe. On top of its tower is a statue of St. Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of the city. Since 1998 the Grand Place has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
* Read a book with a house or houses on the cover (post cover) OR read a book whose author's first and last initials can be found in GRAND PLACE.
Day 2: Brussels
In Brussels there are several interesting museums, some of which preserve works by important artists such as the one dedicated to Magritte. But I want to suggest a rather particular one: The Belgian Comic Strip Center. It was opened in 1989 in an Art Nouveau style building that in itself is worth a visit. Comics are a very popular genre in Belgium and are often characterized by long episodic stories. The museum has a well-stocked library with about 30,000 titles in fifteen different languages. A journey through the streets of the city will also show their dedication to comics - throughout you will find murals of the various characters of Belgian comics.
* Read a graphic novel (or manga) OR read a book where the first letter of every word in the title can be found in BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER (three words minimum).
The Domaine Royal de Laeken is a complex that brings together three villas in which the Belgian royal family resides. It is not normally open to the public except for two or three weeks a year in the spring - the dates are announced in January. If you are lucky enough to visit during this period, you absolutely must not miss the opportunity to see it. Especially famous are its splendid gardens and greenhouses, which house rare plants. If you are visiting when it is not open, there is a royal palace located in the center of the city that is used for official ceremonies. It is always open to the public.
* Read a book with a royal character (tell us who) OR read a book where a garden or plants are important in the plot (tell us briefly how).
Day 3: Anvers
Anvers (or Antwerp) rises at the mouth of the Scheldt River and dates back to 640. By the 14th century it was an important commercial center thanks to its port. Today it is the second most important in Europe after that of Rotterdam. Its golden century was the 16th, when it became the main place for the exchange of goods in Europe. Late in the century, progressive silting up of the Scheldt caused its decline and its place was taken by Amsterdam. On the right bank of the Scheldt stands a stunning castle of medieval origin, known as Het Steen in the local language.
* Read a book where the characters go shopping OR read a book whose title starts with a letter in ANVERS.
The Grote Markt is the main square of the city and is overlooked by the Town Hall and Guild Houses. Here is also the largest cathedral in Belgium, built in the so-called Brabantine Gothic style. Another important monument that must absolutely be visited
is the Rubenshuis, the house in which Pieter Paul Rubens lived for about thirty years. He is probably the most important Flemish painter, and in addition to many of his works, the house-museum has preserved his personal art collection which includes painters such as Titian, van Dyck, and Brueghel. Finally, the Plantin-Moretusmuseum is a definite must-see. A medieval building that housed the city's first industrial printing house (1550), it now preserves the old printing presses and a rich collection of books. The museum became a World Heritage Site in 2005.
* Read a book where a museum is mentioned (share the text) OR read a book about a book.
Day 4: Ghent
Ghent, which arose at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers, was the capital of the ancient county of Flanders and here the emperor Charles V was born. Once one of the most populous cities in all of Europe, it began its decline after revolting against Spanish rule in 1550. Symbol of the municipal power of the medieval city is the Belfort (bell tower), which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. A walk through the city's streets will have you admiring the medieval and Renaissance architecture. Particularly beautiful are those buildings along the two quays of the Leie river, known
as Graslei and Korenlei (respectively “bank of herbs” and “bank of wheat”).
* Read a book with a tower on the cover (post cover) OR read a book with two 5's in its page count (share page count).
Of particular interest, Ghent is home to three Beguinages, two of which are UNESCO sites. The Beguines was a religious movement made up of women who gathered in communities isolated from the rest of the city. The Beguinage, which was often walled, had a courtyard surrounded by both the homes of the beguines and various buildings used by the whole community. Beguines are not nuns - they were a community of women who led lives of religious devotion without joining an approved religious order. The movement developed from the 13th century and was also widespread in the Netherlands and in some areas of France and Germany. Normally, Beguinages are a green oasis within a city
* Read a book whose MC's first name starts with a letter found in BEGUINES OR read a book with a character who is very religious.
Day 5: Bruges
Bruges saw its golden age between the 12th and 15th centuries, when it became a very important center of commercial exchange, thanks to the Zwin Canal that connected it to the North Sea. Various colonies of merchants arose, in particular Italians, but at the end of the 15th century the city lost its role in favor of Anvers. Cruises on the canal is an activity that a tourist must do to admire the city from a different perspective. It has been a World Heritage Site since 2000. Other sites that have this qualification are the Beguinage and the inevitable Beffroi or civic tower.
* Read a book where the MC is a merchant OR read a book where the characters take a cruise.
The city is full of medieval buildings and churches, but the Groeningemuseum, which houses works by the most important Flemish and Belgian painters, starting with the famous Jan van Eyck, should definitely be visited. A very curious museum, housed in
one of the oldest buildings in the city, is the one dedicated ... to fried potatoes! The Frietmuseum shows the history of this tuber and at the end allows you to taste the typical Belgian fries along with different meats and sauces. It may seem like a strange museum, but French fries are one of the typical dishes of Belgium along with mussels: the latter are cooked in many different ways and deserve to be tasted during the trip.
* Read a book with an artist MC (tell us what they do) OR read a book with food on the cover (post the cover).