Ever since I saw Joy’s announcement of the 2nds Challenge I knew I’d be joining in. I’ve been participating in her First in the Series Challenge and have managed to read some great first books so it’s only natural that I want to read the next book. This will be the perfect excuse to do just that.
The challenge doesn’t start until September so I still have time to come up with my final list (well, I’m sure I’ll make changes as I go along as I tend to do that) but I thought I’d share some of the books that I’ve been thinking of since I found out about the challenge.
- Secondhand Smoke by Karen E. Olson. Last year I got to read Karen’s first book, Sacred Cows, and really enjoyed it. I also was lucky enough to host a Q&A with Karen and since then I’ve been meaning to read up on this series. Karen will have a new book out later this Fall so I must get caught up on this series!
- Preaching to the Corpse by Roberta Isleib. Again, another author I discovered last year. I thought her first mystery in the Advice Column series was really well done so I’d like to revisit with her characters.
- The Likeness by Tana French. I know I’ve mentioned that In the Woods has been one of my favorite reads this year so far so I’m very curious as to what happens next with these characters.
- The Terra-Cotta Dog by Andrea Camilleri. I wouldn’t mind taking a trip to Italy.
- Payment in Blood by Elizabeth George. Really liked the first one in this series and it looks like I’ve got a way to go to catch up with this one.
- Silent in the Sanctuary by Deanna Raybourn. I want to know what happens next to Lady Julia Grey.
- When Gods Die by C.S. Harris. Another great historical mystery series which I want to follow.
I realize these are all mysteries and I could easily pick books in some different genres but when I think of a series, I always think of mysteries first. So, that’s my long list for now. I only have to read four books for this challenge but these are all books I want to read so even if I don’t get to them for this challenge, they are on my TBR shelves and I will get to them eventually.
I haven’t been able to find any press releases about the new Tana French. Is it going to be about the same characters? I somehow thought of that as a one off and of her writing more in the Minette Walters mode rather than a serial.
I enjoyed reading Sacred Cows! I’ve the other two instalments in my pile and I’m hoping to read them soon! Also, I understand that Karen E. Olson’s next book – Shot Girl will be out in Nov!
Woo Hoo! I’m so glad you are joining us in the 2nds Challenge. I hope your choices are all fantastic and that you want to move on to 3rds! 🙂
You should have enough books in your collection to come up with a complete list!
That’s funny. When I think of series, I also automatically think mysteries.
I have had When Gods Die on TBR list fora while now. I cant wait to read what you thought about it. It seems amazing.
Ann (Table Talk) – I think you are right… I guess because I saw that The Likeness had the same characters I assumed it would be a series… although it doesn’t have that kind of feeling to it. I don’t know if she plans any other books with the characters after this one. I’ll have to dig around and see what I can find!
Melody – Wasn’t Scared Cows fun? I loved Vinny’s character and want to see what happens with him and Annie!
Joy – I couldn’t resist! And, I do hope these are all great because I know some of these writers are already several books into their series and it seems like they are only getting better!
Isabel – Ha, no doubt right 🙂
Lisa – Hee.hee… I mean, other genres have series but mysteries are my first choice of course.
Jessica – Someone in my book group mentioned that the series keeps getting better so I definitely have high hopes for this one!
This sounds like a really great challenge. Maybe I’ll join in as well.
This one sounds very fun! I need to go back and look at my journals. First author who is off my head is Shirley Abbott. Then there is Lisa See. I’ll keep you updated on my selections. 🙂
A lot of good bookish things going on! Michael just picked up “In the Woods” the other day at The Strand….it sounds really good!
What a cool idea for a challenge! Sounds as if you have some good picks. 🙂
aka Nik – Oh you should – do it 🙂
Matt – I still need to read Peony in Love! You recommended that one right? Looking forward to see what you select 🙂
Christine – Yay, I hope he likes it. I’ll have to discuss the ending with him 🙂
Tiffany – Isn’t it fun? I want to read all of these so we’ll see which one I start with first!
I have certainly enjoyed the last three you mentioned (and try to keep up with these authors), but especially appreciate the other titles and authors that I’ve not read as I’m always looking for good mysteries!
jenclair – I’m always looking for good mysteries too 🙂
What a great list–I love Elizabeth George and the next Deanna Raybourn book is fun, too! I really need to read the Tana French book–I think it will have to be my next mystery now!
I like the idea of this challenge, but I think I’ll have to wait for another one. I’ve got too much going this semester in school. Catch you another time. I’ll still visit though.
Danielle – You are caught up on George’s series right? I hear that it’s one that really keeps getting better. Can’t wait!
Wisteria – I know, with so many challenges we can’t just do them all! Nice seeing you stop by… I need to catch up on my blog reading too 🙂