Cozy Mystery Corner discussion

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
Start date: March 1st
Duration: 3 months from start (or as long as you need)

Superstitions from Around the World
Irrational as they may be, we all have a superstition or two. Whether it's a lucky pair of pants or an aversion to Friday the 13th, superstitions are important to us because they give meaning to the often random nature of luck and put us in the driving seat of our destiny. This challenge draws on the cultural histories behind some of the world's most common superstitions.



1. Knocking on Wood
Indo-European, Celtic
This phrase has roots in the Indo-European or Celtic belief that spirits good and bad reside in trees who could be either called upon for protection or chased away by knocking on their home.

Read a book with a tree on the cover.

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman
This superstition involves warding off evil - in this case, the Devil himself. In Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayer, Judas Iscariot, is portrayed as having accidentally spilled salt. Since Judas was associated with doing something bad, the argument goes that, ipso facto, so was salt, and throwing it over your shoulder would blind the devil waiting there.

Read a mystery with a culinary theme.

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
The superstition of not wanting to walk under a ladder has roots in Christian symbolism: the “Holy Trinity” of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit led to an association of the number three with something sacred. The triangle, with its three sides, came to be regarded as sacred as well, and a ladder of course forms a triangle, so to walk under a ladder would be to destroy the sanctity of the Trinity and thus incur punishment. Egyptians placed ladders in tombs to help one climb to heaven.

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.

4. Broken Mirror
Ancient Greek/Roman, European, etc.
Reflections of ourselves are uncanny and often unnerving, so humans have long had bad associations with them. The belief that a broken mirror brings bad luck comes from the idea that a crack in the mirror would somehow break its charm or trap one’s soul.

Read a book with a mirror or something glass/breakable on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Another superstition involving something cracked or broken being associated with bad luck is “stepping on a crack” as foretelling, or even causing, harm to a family member. Cracks—in the earth, on a sidewalk, or almost anywhere—have long been seen as portals to the realm of the supernatural, for both good and ill. To step on those cracks might be to invite or release unwelcome spirits into the world ready to do one harm.

Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where a mother is a key character. Name her.

6. Lucky Pennies
Ancient Roman, English, American
The idea that finding a penny would bring good luck originates in folk beliefs that metal, regarded as quite valuable, was sent by the gods to protect those whom they favored. Pennies are made from metal, find them and you’ll have good fortune.

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe
Earliest origins of the horseshoe’s function as a good luck charm reside in its vulval shape (seen upside down) and the invocation of the pagan moon goddess Diana and her ‘sacred vulva’. Metal was seen as both valuable and magical, iron in particular was thought by early Europeans as something capable of warding off evil spirits.

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.

8. Friday the 13th
European/Christian
Magical significance has been attached to the number 13-- this time, it’s unlucky rather than lucky. The number 12 has frequently been seen as positive, naturally making its nearest neighboring number to the north negative. The 13th is also seen as unlucky because the 13th member at the Last Supper was Judas Iscariot, the Great Betrayer that led to Christ’s crucifixion.

Read a book that is #13 or higher in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the total page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).
*Use the GR total page count.

9. Black Cats
European, American, Egyptian, Asian
Over the centuries, black cats have endured the stigma of cultural and historical myths, superstitions, and tales that make them either revered or feared. Black cats have long been associated with black magic and the practice of witchcraft. Black cats (along with other black animals) were feared as omens of evil and death. On the other hand, Egyptians viewed black cats as divine and believed that gods lived within them. In Asia, owning a black cat makes you lucky for life.

Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).



10. Fingers Crossed
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
The superstition of crossing one’s fingers bringing the “finger-crosser” good luck comes from pre-Christian, Pagan times in Western Europe, when the practice of making a cross with your own and the index finger of another person was thought to concentrate the forces of good spirits and to seal a pact or a wish with the fellow-crosser. Over time, people realized they could bless their own wishes by simply crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, which is what we do today.

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Rainbows are considered a blessing across many cultures. The emergence of a rainbow is seen as a sign of hope, the beauty after the storm, a pot of gold and good fortune at the rainbow's end. After a heavy rain or storm, rainbows represent beginnings and regeneration. For many, a rainbow carries a personal symbolic meaning–representing inclusivity and diversity, an all-embracing image of love and friendship.

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

12. The Number Four
China
Numbers are frequently assigned different magical significance or status. For the Chinese, the number “four” is a no-no, due to the similarity in its pronunciation, in Chinese, to the word for “death.”

Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Verona, Italy
In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Romeo was known to frequent the foot of Juliet’s balcony in order to send up his nightly entreaties and missives of love. At the ‘Casa di Giuletta’ in Verona Italy, where the ‘Capuleti’ family supposedly lived, visitors can write their own love letters to Juliet. This is all done in hopes of earning her favor like the Romeo of long ago, even if the pair themselves were not so lucky.

Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia
It's a common belief—spanning the Mediterranean, Middle East and South Asia—that to achieve too much success would be to invite the anger or inspire the envy of the gods, who would then smite the unfortunate individual with a reversal of fortune. In response to the fear of this curse, people across the ancient Mediterranean began fashioning amulets and beads with an image of an 'evil eye' which would then help ward off that horrible, untoward fate.

Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
The Japanese tuck in their thumbs when in a cemetery visiting the graves of dead relatives. This comes from the connection between the Japanese word for “thumb” and its meaning as the “parent finger." To tuck one’s thumbs in inside a cemetery, then, is to protect one’s parents from death.

Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Like numbers, colors have frequently been assigned symbolic significance. In Russia, yellow flowers are problematic as they are thought to represent infidelity, separation, or even death!

Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.

17. Sweeping Feet
South America
If you happen to be on a cleaning spree, you will want to be careful with brooms. South Americans believe that if your feet are swept over by a broom you will remain single for the rest of your life. The curse🙄 can be broken, if you immediately spit on the broom. The exact origins of this superstition are unknown, but legend has it that a woman who cannot keep house, does not a good wife make.

Read a book where the MC is single.

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean
Depending which palm of yours begins to itch, you may find yourself in the Caribbean with a bit of extra spending money, or in the red. It is a common belief that an itchy left palm means you will owe money soon, whereas an itchy right palm means money is coming your way. The left hand seems to hold passive energy, and the right hand active energy which symbolically could explain the coming in and out of money.

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.

How to Play:
Copy and paste the tasks list.
Pick a level. You can change levels during the challenge.
Your name in msg 3 will be a link to your post.
Edit your original post to update your progress.
Let us know when you complete the challenge.

Levels
🐞Ladybug: 1-6 books
🍀Four-leaf Clover: 7-12 books
💫Shooting Star: 13-18 books

Rules:
One task per book. If your book fits more than one task, pick one.
Books must be at least 125 pages.
Books can be any genre. Cozies are preferred.
Post the cover when the task requires a specific item or color.
When the task has options, tell us which one you choose.
Identify the key character if the task requires one.

*Key characters appear in several scenes in the book. May be the sleuth, friend, victim, detective, suspect, s/o, family member, etc.

Change to #5 - Key character is a mother, but does not have to be MC's mother.

Change to *8 - Read a book that is #13 or higher in a series

Primary source: 18 Superstitions from Around the World
https://artsandculture.google.com/sto...

Players:


Alice

🍀 Becky - Ladybug Clover

Cheryl A

💫Helen - Clover - Shooting Star

Hilary

Jordan - Shooting Star

Julesy - Shooting Star

💫Linda R - Clover Shooting Star

Liora - Ladybug

💫Meg - Shooting Star

💫 Nell - Clover - Shooting Star

💫QnPoohBear - Clover - Shooting Star

Tari - Shooting Star

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
Start date: March 1st
Duration: 3 months from start

1. Knocking on Wood

Read a book with a tree on the cover. - Death Under the Sea by Rosalie Spielman 21/3/23

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman

Read a mystery with a culinary theme. - A Dish Best Served Cold by Rosie Genova 19/4/23

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy. - Cheddar Late Than Dead by Linda Reilly 17/4/23

4. Broken Mirror
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able. - Digging Up History by Sheila Connolly 22/3/23

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character. - The Case of the Hurricane Hounds by B.R. Snow 4/3/23

6. Lucky Pennies

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time. - Crime and Poetry by Amanda Flower 28/3/23

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover. - Till Death Do Us Port by Kate Lansing 28/4/23

8. Friday the 13th

Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301 pp). - The Case of the Mellow Maltese by B.R. Snow 13/4/23

9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%). - Verse and Vengeance by Amanda Flower 1/4/23

10. Fingers Crossed
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
The superstition of crossing one’s fingers bringing the “finger-crosser” good luck comes from pre-Christian, Pagan times in Western Europe, when the practice of making a cross with your own and the index finger of another person was thought to concentrate the forces of good spirits and to seal a pact or a wish with the fellow-crosser. Over time, people realized they could bless their own wishes by simply crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, which is what we do today.

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. - Forget Me Knot by Mary Marks 28/4/23

12. The Number Four
China

Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character who has Asian ancestry. - Hot and Sour Suspects by Vivien Chien 17/4/23 ( MC is Lana Lee)

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Verona, Italy

Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text. - Murder in a Cape Cottage by Maddie Day 26/4/23

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia
It's a common belief—spanning the Mediterranean, Middle East and South Asia—that to achieve too much success would be to invite the anger or inspire the envy of the gods, who would then smite the unfortunate individual with a reversal of fortune. In response to the fear of this curse, people across the ancient Mediterranean began fashioning amulets and beads with an image of an 'evil eye' which would then help ward off that horrible, untoward fate.

Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover. - Tidal Wave by Beth Prentice 30/3/23

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover. - Death in Bloom by Jess Dylan 2/3/23

17. Sweeping Feet
South America
Read a book where the MC is single. - The Case of the Klutzy King Charles by B.R. Snow 2/4/23

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies or struggling with debt. - Courtesy Call by Barbara Barrett (one character has had a lottery win that funds their new lifestyle, another has gambling debts that may or may not have led to their death!)

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
March 1-May 31, 2023
18/18

1. Knocking on Wood
Read a book with a tree on the cover.
Lynda Brunelle 3/6/23

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
Series is called Freshly Baked Mysteries-Valentine Villainy Kathleen Suzette 3/3/23

3. Walking Under a Ladder
Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
#3 Haunted Housekeeping Mysteries-The Merry Messy Mummy R.A. Muth 3/19/23

4. Broken Mirror
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
Windows- Lucinda Harrison 3/7/23

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character.
A Case of Senior Scandals Lily Rose Lane 3/2/23

6. Lucky Pennies
Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
It's both-Books & Bribes Lucinda Race 3/1/23

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
Spilled drink- Mindy Quigley 4/14/23

8. Friday the 13th
Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301 pp).
213 GR link doesn’t have the pages, Amazon link does: https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Vineyar... Murder at the Vineyard Inn Dani Simms 3/22/23

9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).
He's even a black cat- Victoria DeLuis 3/13/23

10. Fingers Crossed
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
J.A. Whiting, May Stenmark 4/10/23

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
Has 4- Max Parrott 3/14/23

12. The Number Four
Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character who has Asian ancestry.
#4 Fairy Garden Mysteries-A Flicker of a Doubt Daryl Wood Gerber 3/29/23

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
Text-The Deadly Dust Bunnies R.A. Muth 3/15/23

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
If dog and goat faces count... Cindy Bell 3/17/23

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
Poison bottle- Danielle Collins, Millie Briggs 4/12/23

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
Deany Ray 6/8/23

17. Sweeping Feet
Read a book where the MC is single.
Death of a Lonely Bachelor Tricia Simpson 3/16/23

18. Itchy Palms
Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Shay runs a successful escape rooms business-Escape from the Past Courtney McFarlin 3/20/23
Bad luck-> pinching pennies or struggling with debt.

Going for Shooting Star

1. Knocking on Wood
Read a book with a tree on the cover.
Muffin But the Truth

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
Coffee, Cream Pies, and Crimes

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
Louisa and the Crystal Gazer #3 in the series

4. Broken Mirror

Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.

Window Aunt Dimity and the Next of Kin
(I read this one with the apartment scene and not the one with the black cat)

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back

Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character.
Alpaca Lies

6. Lucky Pennies

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
The Scottish Ladies' Detective Agency

7. Lucky Horseshoe

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.

Sugar Plum Poisoned

8. Friday the 13th
Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301 pp).
Between a Squawk and a Hard Place
#13 in the Bought-the-Farm series

9. Black Cats.
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).
Till the Cat Lady Sings

10. Fingers Crossed.
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
Murder on the Cornish Cliffs

11. Seeing a Rainbow

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

Deerly Departed: A Cozy Mystery for Animal Lovers (snowy weather)

12. The Number Four
Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.

The Case of the Carnaby Castle Curse
#4 in the Anty Boisjolay series

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
Fateful Words (text and e-mail)

14. Curse of the Evil Eye.
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
The Cat of the Baskervilles

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery

Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
Fatal Fudge Swirl (there are gravestones in the background and a skull on the ice cream cone)

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
Aunt Dimity Digs In

17. Sweeping Feet
South America

Read a book where the MC is single.
First Edition Murder

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies or struggling with debt.

Twas the Bite Before Christmas

Both, actually. Hannah Pemberton gifted Ivy money to keep Runaway Farm going but money is still tight until the inn becomes more popular.

Thanks, this is a fun one! I'm going to go for Shooting Star, fingers crossed

Good Luck - Bad Luck
March 01 - May 31, 2023

1. Knocking on Wood
Read a book with a tree on the cover
Murder at Blackwater Bend, Clara McKenna 04/15

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
Death on the Menu 03/24

3. Walking Under a Ladder
Read a book where a key character is clergy.
Peril & Prayer 04/23

4. Broken Mirror
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes) ==> windows
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
Buried in a Good Book, Tamara Berry 04/12

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character. ==> both
Fields' Guide to Fog, Julie Mulhern 04/29

6. Lucky Pennies
Read the 1st book in a series and read an author for the first time.
Murder at Mallowan Hall 03/14

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
Matchmaking Can Be Murder

8. Friday the 13th
Read a book that is #13 in a series
Wedding Bell Blues 03/11

9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover
Classified as Murder 03/21

10. Fingers Crossed
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
Rattle His Bones 03/02

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Read a book with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover ==> actual rainbow on cover
The Miracle at Speedy Motors 03/16

12. The Number Four
Read the 4th book in a series
The Loch Ness Papers 03/17

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter sends an email and texts
Maui Time 03/14

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
Blackmail and Bibingka 03/01

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
Murder Most Grave 05/09

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more)
Hot Sun Cold Killer, Robert W. Stephens 03/03

17. Sweeping Feet
Read a book where the MC is single. (Two MCs, both single)
Murder in an English Glade 03/05

18. Itchy Palms
Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck ==> wealthy or receives a windfall ==> reward
Divas, Diamonds & Death 03/10

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
Start date: March 1st
Duration: Sept 24

Level: Clover - Shooting Star 💫
Progress: 18/12

Superstitions from Around the World
Irrational as they may be, we all have a superstition or two. Whether it's a lucky pair of pants or an aversion to Friday the 13th, superstitions are important to us because they give meaning to the often random nature of luck and put us in the driving seat of our destiny. This challenge draws on the cultural histories behind some of the world's most common superstitions.


1. Knocking on Wood

Read a book with a tree on the cover.
Murder on Pleasant Avenue by Victoria Thompson 5/27/23


2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder

Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
Chef Maurice and a Spot of Truffle by J.A. Lang 9/24/23


3. Walking Under a Ladder

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade #3: In Hot Water by J.J. Cook 8/5/23



4. Broken Mirror

Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover
Statue of Limitations by Kate Collins 5/13/23 - broken clay pot, breakable statue


5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back

Read a book ... where a mother is a key character. Name her.
Jazz Friendly: Desert Getaway by Michael Craft 3/19/23


6. Lucky Pennies

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
Winter Witness by Tina deBellegarde 3/12/23


7. Lucky Horseshoe

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
On Turpentine Lane by Elinor Lipman 5/21/23


8. Friday the 13th

Read a book that ... has both 1 and 3 in the page count.
313 pp: From Garden To Grave by Rickie Blair 4/09/23


9. Black Cats

Read a book with a cat on the cover .
Mimi Lee Gets a Clue by Jennifer J. Chow 5/19/23


10. Fingers Crossed

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
Gone West by Carola Dunn 6/11/23


11. Seeing a Rainbow

Read a book where there is stormy weather
Dead Man's Leap by Tina deBellegarde 3/25/23


12. The Number Four

Read ... a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.
Accidentally Engaged by Farah Heron 3/27/23


13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet

Read a book where the MC writes a letter...
Peril in Paris by Rhys Bowen


14. Curse of the Evil Eye Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia

Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
Evil Woman by Julie Mulhern 8/12/23


15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan

Read a book with ... skull and crossbones on the cover.
Apple Pie and Arsenic by C.A. Phipps 4/30/23


16. Giving Yellow Flowers Russia

Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
Murder on Wall Street by Victoria Thompson 5/29/23


17. Sweeping Feet South America

Read a book where the MC is single.
The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang 6/27/23


18. Itchy Palms

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Murder on Trinity Place by Victoria Thompson 5/15/23 - Frank Malloy, inheritance


Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
3/1/23 - 5/31/23

Four-leaf clover (7-12 books)
18/18

1. Knocking on Wood
Read a book with a tree on the cover.
Murder at an Irish Wedding 4/12/23

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
Drop Dead Chocolate 4/6/23

3. Walking Under a Ladder
Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
Murder on the Cliff 3/12/23

4. Broken Mirror
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
A Murderous Glaze 3/3/23 (broken window on cover)

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where a mother is a key character. Name her.
Tastes Like Murder 3/9/23

6. Lucky Pennies
Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
Kneading to Die 4/15/23

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
Pleading the Fish 3/6/23

8. Friday the 13th
Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).
Death on Tap (310 pages) 3/15/23

9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).
Death by Chocolate 4/20/23

10. Fingers Crossed
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
Elementary, My Dear Watkins 3/18/23

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
The Cracked Pot 3/24/23

12. The Number Four
Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.
Egg Drop Dead 3/30/23

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
Blood and Circuses 4/17/23

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
Death at a Premium 5/7/23

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
Powdered Peril 4/23/23

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
The Final Vow 3/21/23

17. Sweeping Feet
Read a book where the MC is single.
Soul of a Killer 3/27/23

18. Itchy Palms
Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.
Murder Has Nine Lives 3/20/23 Jaine who is always broke and her cat booked a commercial and she eventually got paid

Alice's spot


Superstitions from Around the World
Irrational as they may be, we all have a superstition or two. Whether it's a lucky pair of pants or an aversion to Friday the 13th, superstitions are important to us because they give meaning to the often random nature of luck and put us in the driving seat of our destiny. This challenge draws on the cultural histories behind some of the world's most common superstitions.

1. Knocking on Wood
Indo-European, Celtic
This phrase has roots in the Indo-European or Celtic belief that spirits good and bad reside in trees who could be either called upon for protection or chased away by knocking on their home.

Read a book with a tree on the cover.

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman
This superstition involves warding off evil - in this case, the Devil himself. In Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayer, Judas Iscariot, is portrayed as having accidentally spilled salt. Since Judas was associated with doing something bad, the argument goes that, ipso facto, so was salt, and throwing it over your shoulder would blind the devil waiting there.

Read a mystery with a culinary theme.

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
The superstition of not wanting to walk under a ladder has roots in Christian symbolism: the “Holy Trinity” of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit led to an association of the number three with something sacred. The triangle, with its three sides, came to be regarded as sacred as well, and a ladder of course forms a triangle, so to walk under a ladder would be to destroy the sanctity of the Trinity and thus incur punishment. Egyptians placed ladders in tombs to help one climb to heaven.

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.

4. Broken Mirror
Ancient Greek/Roman, European, etc.
Reflections of ourselves are uncanny and often unnerving, so humans have long had bad associations with them. The belief that a broken mirror brings bad luck comes from the idea that a crack in the mirror would somehow break its charm or trap one’s soul.

Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Another superstition involving something cracked or broken being associated with bad luck is “stepping on a crack” as foretelling, or even causing, harm to a family member. Cracks—in the earth, on a sidewalk, or almost anywhere—have long been seen as portals to the realm of the supernatural, for both good and ill. To step on those cracks might be to invite or release unwelcome spirits into the world ready to do one harm.

Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character.

6. Lucky Pennies
Ancient Roman, English, American
The idea that finding a penny would bring good luck originates in folk beliefs that metal, regarded as quite valuable, was sent by the gods to protect those whom they favored. Pennies are made from metal, find them and you’ll have good fortune.

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time. A Useful Woman by Darcie Wilde

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe
Earliest origins of the horseshoe’s function as a good luck charm reside in its vulval shape (seen upside down) and the invocation of the pagan moon goddess Diana and her ‘sacred vulva’. Metal was seen as both valuable and magical, iron in particular was thought by early Europeans as something capable of warding off evil spirits.

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.

8. Friday the 13th
European/Christian
Magical significance has been attached to the number 13-- this time, it’s unlucky rather than lucky. The number 12 has frequently been seen as positive, naturally making its nearest neighboring number to the north negative. The 13th is also seen as unlucky because the 13th member at the Last Supper was Judas Iscariot, the Great Betrayer that led to Christ’s crucifixion.

Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301 pp).

9. Black Cats
European, American, Egyptian, Asian
Over the centuries, black cats have endured the stigma of cultural and historical myths, superstitions, and tales that make them either revered or feared. Black cats have long been associated with black magic and the practice of witchcraft. Black cats (along with other black animals) were feared as omens of evil and death. On the other hand, Egyptians viewed black cats as divine and believed that gods lived within them. In Asia, owning a black cat makes you lucky for life.

Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%). Cat About Town by Cate Conte

10. Fingers Crossed
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
The superstition of crossing one’s fingers bringing the “finger-crosser” good luck comes from pre-Christian, Pagan times in Western Europe, when the practice of making a cross with your own and the index finger of another person was thought to concentrate the forces of good spirits and to seal a pact or a wish with the fellow-crosser. Over time, people realized they could bless their own wishes by simply crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, which is what we do today.

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover. Charity's Burden by Edith Maxwell

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Rainbows are considered a blessing across many cultures. The emergence of a rainbow is seen as a sign of hope, the beauty after the storm, a pot of gold and good fortune at the rainbow's end. After a heavy rain or storm, rainbows represent beginnings and regeneration. For many, a rainbow carries a personal symbolic meaning–representing inclusivity and diversity, an all-embracing image of love and friendship.

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

12. The Number Four
China
Numbers are frequently assigned different magical significance or status. For the Chinese, the number “four” is a no-no, due to the similarity in its pronunciation, in Chinese, to the word for “death.”

Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character who has Asian ancestry. The Motion Picture Teller by Colin Cotterill

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Verona, Italy
In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Romeo was known to frequent the foot of Juliet’s balcony in order to send up his nightly entreaties and missives of love. At the ‘Casa di Giuletta’ in Verona Italy, where the ‘Capuleti’ family supposedly lived, visitors can write their own love letters to Juliet. This is all done in hopes of earning her favor like the Romeo of long ago, even if the pair themselves were not so lucky.

Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia
It's a common belief—spanning the Mediterranean, Middle East and South Asia—that to achieve too much success would be to invite the anger or inspire the envy of the gods, who would then smite the unfortunate individual with a reversal of fortune. In response to the fear of this curse, people across the ancient Mediterranean began fashioning amulets and beads with an image of an 'evil eye' which would then help ward off that horrible, untoward fate.

Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
The Japanese tuck in their thumbs when in a cemetery visiting the graves of dead relatives. This comes from the connection between the Japanese word for “thumb” and its meaning as the “parent finger”. To tuck one’s thumbs in inside a cemetery, then, is to protect one’s parents from death.

Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover. A Time to Swill by Sherry Harris

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Like numbers, colors have frequently been assigned symbolic significance. In Russia, yellow flowers are problematic as they are thought to represent infidelity, separation, or even death!

Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover. An Unjust Judge by Cora Harrison

17. Sweeping Feet
South America
If you happen to be on a cleaning spree, you will want to be careful with brooms. South Americans believe that if your feet are swept over by a broom you will remain single for the rest of your life. The curse🙄 can be broken, if you immediately spit on the broom. The exact origins of this superstition are unknown, but legend has it that a woman who cannot keep house, does not a good wife make.

Read a book where the MC is single.
Death on the Green by Catie Murphy

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean
Depending which palm of yours begins to itch, you may find yourself in the Caribbean with a bit of extra spending money, or in the red. It is a common belief that an itchy left palm means you will owe money soon, whereas an itchy right palm means money is coming your way. The left hand seems to hold passive energy, and the right hand active energy which symbolically could explain the coming in and out of money.

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies or struggling with debt.

reply | flag

I’m in. I’ll start with Four-Leaf clover.
12/12
Now heading for the Shooting Star 18/18
1. Knocking on Wood
Indo-European, Celtic
This phrase has roots in the Indo-European or Celtic belief that spirits good and bad reside in trees who could be either called upon for protection or chased away by knocking on their home.

Read a book with a tree on the cover.


2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman
This superstition involves warding off evil - in this case, the Devil himself. In Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayer, Judas Iscariot, is portrayed as having accidentally spilled salt. Since Judas was associated with doing something bad, the argument goes that, ipso facto, so was salt, and throwing it over your shoulder would blind the devil waiting there.

Read a mystery with a culinary theme.


3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
The superstition of not wanting to walk under a ladder has roots in Christian symbolism: the “Holy Trinity” of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit led to an association of the number three with something sacred. The triangle, with its three sides, came to be regarded as sacred as well, and a ladder of course forms a triangle, so to walk under a ladder would be to destroy the sanctity of the Trinity and thus incur punishment. Egyptians placed ladders in tombs to help one climb to heaven.

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.


4. Broken Mirror
Ancient Greek/Roman, European, etc.
Reflections of ourselves are uncanny and often unnerving, so humans have long had bad associations with them. The belief that a broken mirror brings bad luck comes from the idea that a crack in the mirror would somehow break its charm or trap one’s soul.

Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.


5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Another superstition involving something cracked or broken being associated with bad luck is “stepping on a crack” as foretelling, or even causing, harm to a family member. Cracks—in the earth, on a sidewalk, or almost anywhere—have long been seen as portals to the realm of the supernatural, for both good and ill. To step on those cracks might be to invite or release unwelcome spirits into the world ready to do one harm.

Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where a mother is a key character. Name her.
. Mother Claire Malloy takes her teenage daughter on her honeymoon.

6. Lucky Pennies
Ancient Roman, English, American
The idea that finding a penny would bring good luck originates in folk beliefs that metal, regarded as quite valuable, was sent by the gods to protect those whom they favored. Pennies are made from metal, find them and you’ll have good fortune.

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.


7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe
Earliest origins of the horseshoe’s function as a good luck charm reside in its vulval shape (seen upside down) and the invocation of the pagan moon goddess Diana and her ‘sacred vulva’. Metal was seen as both valuable and magical, iron in particular was thought by early Europeans as something capable of warding off evil spirits.

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.


8. Friday the 13th
European/Christian
Magical significance has been attached to the number 13-- this time, it’s unlucky rather than lucky. The number 12 has frequently been seen as positive, naturally making its nearest neighboring number to the north negative. The 13th is also seen as unlucky because the 13th member at the Last Supper was Judas Iscariot, the Great Betrayer that led to Christ’s crucifixion.

Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).


9. Black Cats
European, American, Egyptian, Asian
Over the centuries, black cats have endured the stigma of cultural and historical myths, superstitions, and tales that make them either revered or feared. Black cats have long been associated with black magic and the practice of witchcraft. Black cats (along with other black animals) were feared as omens of evil and death. On the other hand, Egyptians viewed black cats as divine and believed that gods lived within them. In Asia, owning a black cat makes you lucky for life.

Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).



10. Fingers Crossed
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
The superstition of crossing one’s fingers bringing the “finger-crosser” good luck comes from pre-Christian, Pagan times in Western Europe, when the practice of making a cross with your own and the index finger of another person was thought to concentrate the forces of good spirits and to seal a pact or a wish with the fellow-crosser. Over time, people realized they could bless their own wishes by simply crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, which is what we do today.

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.


11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Rainbows are considered a blessing across many cultures. The emergence of a rainbow is seen as a sign of hope, the beauty after the storm, a pot of gold and good fortune at the rainbow's end. After a heavy rain or storm, rainbows represent beginnings and regeneration. For many, a rainbow carries a personal symbolic meaning–representing inclusivity and diversity, an all-embracing image of love and friendship.

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.


12. The Number Four
China
Numbers are frequently assigned different magical significance or status. For the Chinese, the number “four” is a no-no, due to the similarity in its pronunciation, in Chinese, to the word for “death.”

Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.


13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Verona, Italy
In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Romeo was known to frequent the foot of Juliet’s balcony in order to send up his nightly entreaties and missives of love. At the ‘Casa di Giuletta’ in Verona Italy, where the ‘Capuleti’ family supposedly lived, visitors can write their own love letters to Juliet. This is all done in hopes of earning her favor like the Romeo of long ago, even if the pair themselves were not so lucky.

Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
Sister John writes several letters.

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia
It's a common belief—spanning the Mediterranean, Middle East and South Asia—that to achieve too much success would be to invite the anger or inspire the envy of the gods, who would then smite the unfortunate individual with a reversal of fortune. In response to the fear of this curse, people across the ancient Mediterranean began fashioning amulets and beads with an image of an 'evil eye' which would then help ward off that horrible, untoward fate.

Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.


15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
The Japanese tuck in their thumbs when in a cemetery visiting the graves of dead relatives. This comes from the connection between the Japanese word for “thumb” and its meaning as the “parent finger." To tuck one’s thumbs in inside a cemetery, then, is to protect one’s parents from death.

Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.


16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Like numbers, colors have frequently been assigned symbolic significance. In Russia, yellow flowers are problematic as they are thought to represent infidelity, separation, or even death!

Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.


17. Sweeping Feet
South America
If you happen to be on a cleaning spree, you will want to be careful with brooms. South Americans believe that if your feet are swept over by a broom you will remain single for the rest of your life. The curse🙄 can be broken, if you immediately spit on the broom. The exact origins of this superstition are unknown, but legend has it that a woman who cannot keep house, does not a good wife make.

Read a book where the MC is single.

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean
Depending which palm of yours begins to itch, you may find yourself in the Caribbean with a bit of extra spending money, or in the red. It is a common belief that an itchy left palm means you will owe money soon, whereas an itchy right palm means money is coming your way. The left hand seems to hold passive energy, and the right hand active energy which symbolically could explain the coming in and out of money.

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.
fits on at least 2 counts. 2 sisters inherit the neighbouring shops, and Fred’s stepfather is wealthy despite his appearance.

Good Luck-Bad Luck Challenge🧲🍀
Duration: Mar. 1 - May 31

Updated: Apr. 26
Progress: 18/18 COMPLETED
Goal: 💫Shooting Star (13-18 books)

🌴1. Knocking on Wood
Read a book with a tree on the cover.
Little Monarchs by Jonathan Case - Apr. 4

👩🏼‍🍳2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
BBQ, Bikers, and Murder by Summer Prescott - Mar. 14

3️⃣3. Walking Under a Ladder
Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
Lucky Stars by Aron Nels Steinke - Third book in Mr. Wolf's class series - Apr. 26

🥛4. Broken Mirror
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
Killer View by Catherine Bruns - house windows - Apr. 7

🚧5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where a mother is a key character. Name her.
Passover Haggadah Graphic Novel by Jordan B. Gorfinkel - Mar. 9

👛6. Lucky Pennies
Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
My Last Summer with Cass by Mark Crilley - Mar. 3

🐴👞7. Lucky Horseshoe
Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
Brave by Svetlana Chmakova - lots of papers toppled over

📅8. Friday the 13th
Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).
Dog Man by Dav Pilkey - 231 pages - Mar. 10

🐱‍👤9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).
Sparks! by Ian Boothby - Mar. 6

🤞🏼10. Fingers Crossed
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova - Mar. 3

🌈11. Seeing a Rainbow
Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
Champagne, Sunrise & Dead Guys by Jennifer Fischetto - Mar. 5

🏮12. The Number Four
Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.
Séance Tea Party by Reimena Yee - MC is Chinese - Mar. 7

💌13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
The Haunted Bridge by Carolyn Keene - Mar. 18

👀14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
Archival Quality by Ivy Noelle Weir - Mar. 8

💀15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
Death by Smoothie by Laura Levine - Mar. 12

🌻16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
Housecat Trouble by Mason Dickerson - Mar. 19

🙋🏼‍♂️17. Sweeping Feet
Read a book where the MC is single.
Empty Nest by Josi Avari - Mar. 24

🏴‍☠️18. Itchy Palms
Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.
Manga Classics: The Count Of Monte Cristo adapted by Crystal S. Chan - Edmond Dantes (aka the Count of Monte Cristo) receives GOOD LUCK when he retrieves a treasure given to him by his prison mate. Other characters in which Dantes seeks revenge upon suffer from BACK LUCK as they become financially ruined - Mar. 18

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
March 1st to May 31st

Shooting Star 0/13

Superstitions from Around the World
Irrational as they may be, we all have a superstition or two. Whether it's a lucky pair of pants or an aversion to Friday the 13th, superstitions are important to us because they give meaning to the often random nature of luck and put us in the driving seat of our destiny. This challenge draws on the cultural histories behind some of the world's most common superstitions.

1. Knocking on Wood
Indo-European, Celtic
This phrase has roots in the Indo-European or Celtic belief that spirits good and bad reside in trees who could be either called upon for protection or chased away by knocking on their home.

Read a book with a tree on the cover.

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman
This superstition involves warding off evil - in this case, the Devil himself. In Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayer, Judas Iscariot, is portrayed as having accidentally spilled salt. Since Judas was associated with doing something bad, the argument goes that, ipso facto, so was salt, and throwing it over your shoulder would blind the devil waiting there.

Read a mystery with a culinary theme.

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
The superstition of not wanting to walk under a ladder has roots in Christian symbolism: the “Holy Trinity” of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit led to an association of the number three with something sacred. The triangle, with its three sides, came to be regarded as sacred as well, and a ladder of course forms a triangle, so to walk under a ladder would be to destroy the sanctity of the Trinity and thus incur punishment. Egyptians placed ladders in tombs to help one climb to heaven.

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.

4. Broken Mirror
Ancient Greek/Roman, European, etc.
Reflections of ourselves are uncanny and often unnerving, so humans have long had bad associations with them. The belief that a broken mirror brings bad luck comes from the idea that a crack in the mirror would somehow break its charm or trap one’s soul.

Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Another superstition involving something cracked or broken being associated with bad luck is “stepping on a crack” as foretelling, or even causing, harm to a family member. Cracks—in the earth, on a sidewalk, or almost anywhere—have long been seen as portals to the realm of the supernatural, for both good and ill. To step on those cracks might be to invite or release unwelcome spirits into the world ready to do one harm.

Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where a mother is a key character. Name her.

6. Lucky Pennies
Ancient Roman, English, American
The idea that finding a penny would bring good luck originates in folk beliefs that metal, regarded as quite valuable, was sent by the gods to protect those whom they favored. Pennies are made from metal, find them and you’ll have good fortune.

Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe
Earliest origins of the horseshoe’s function as a good luck charm reside in its vulval shape (seen upside down) and the invocation of the pagan moon goddess Diana and her ‘sacred vulva’. Metal was seen as both valuable and magical, iron in particular was thought by early Europeans as something capable of warding off evil spirits.

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.

8. Friday the 13th
European/Christian
Magical significance has been attached to the number 13-- this time, it’s unlucky rather than lucky. The number 12 has frequently been seen as positive, naturally making its nearest neighboring number to the north negative. The 13th is also seen as unlucky because the 13th member at the Last Supper was Judas Iscariot, the Great Betrayer that led to Christ’s crucifixion.

Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).

9. Black Cats
European, American, Egyptian, Asian
Over the centuries, black cats have endured the stigma of cultural and historical myths, superstitions, and tales that make them either revered or feared. Black cats have long been associated with black magic and the practice of witchcraft. Black cats (along with other black animals) were feared as omens of evil and death. On the other hand, Egyptians viewed black cats as divine and believed that gods lived within them. In Asia, owning a black cat makes you lucky for life.

Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).

10. Fingers Crossed
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
The superstition of crossing one’s fingers bringing the “finger-crosser” good luck comes from pre-Christian, Pagan times in Western Europe, when the practice of making a cross with your own and the index finger of another person was thought to concentrate the forces of good spirits and to seal a pact or a wish with the fellow-crosser. Over time, people realized they could bless their own wishes by simply crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, which is what we do today.

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Rainbows are considered a blessing across many cultures. The emergence of a rainbow is seen as a sign of hope, the beauty after the storm, a pot of gold and good fortune at the rainbow's end. After a heavy rain or storm, rainbows represent beginnings and regeneration. For many, a rainbow carries a personal symbolic meaning–representing inclusivity and diversity, an all-embracing image of love and friendship.

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

12. The Number Four
China
Numbers are frequently assigned different magical significance or status. For the Chinese, the number “four” is a no-no, due to the similarity in its pronunciation, in Chinese, to the word for “death.”

Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Verona, Italy
In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Romeo was known to frequent the foot of Juliet’s balcony in order to send up his nightly entreaties and missives of love. At the ‘Casa di Giuletta’ in Verona Italy, where the ‘Capuleti’ family supposedly lived, visitors can write their own love letters to Juliet. This is all done in hopes of earning her favor like the Romeo of long ago, even if the pair themselves were not so lucky.

Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia
It's a common belief—spanning the Mediterranean, Middle East and South Asia—that to achieve too much success would be to invite the anger or inspire the envy of the gods, who would then smite the unfortunate individual with a reversal of fortune. In response to the fear of this curse, people across the ancient Mediterranean began fashioning amulets and beads with an image of an 'evil eye' which would then help ward off that horrible, untoward fate.

Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
The Japanese tuck in their thumbs when in a cemetery visiting the graves of dead relatives. This comes from the connection between the Japanese word for “thumb” and its meaning as the “parent finger." To tuck one’s thumbs in inside a cemetery, then, is to protect one’s parents from death.

Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Like numbers, colors have frequently been assigned symbolic significance. In Russia, yellow flowers are problematic as they are thought to represent infidelity, separation, or even death!

Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.

17. Sweeping Feet
South America
If you happen to be on a cleaning spree, you will want to be careful with brooms. South Americans believe that if your feet are swept over by a broom you will remain single for the rest of your life. The curse🙄 can be broken, if you immediately spit on the broom. The exact origins of this superstition are unknown, but legend has it that a woman who cannot keep house, does not a good wife make.

Read a book where the MC is single.

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean
Depending which palm of yours begins to itch, you may find yourself in the Caribbean with a bit of extra spending money, or in the red. It is a common belief that an itchy left palm means you will owe money soon, whereas an itchy right palm means money is coming your way. The left hand seems to hold passive energy, and the right hand active energy which symbolically could explain the coming in and out of money.

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.

Changes and Clarification:

#5 Step on a Crack:
Key character is a mother. Does not have to be MC's mother.

#8 Friday the 13th:
Read a book that is #13 or higher in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the total page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).
*Use the GR total page count.

Not sure how I missed this. I'm gonna go for ladybug level on this one.


1. Knocking on Wood


Read a book with a tree on the cover.

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman
This superstition involves warding off evil - in this case, the Devil himself. In Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayer, Judas Iscariot, is portrayed as having accidentally spilled salt. Since Judas was associated with doing something bad, the argument goes that, ipso facto, so was salt, and throwing it over your shoulder would blind the devil waiting there.

Read a mystery with a culinary theme.

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
The superstition of not wanting to walk under a ladder has roots in Christian symbolism: the “Holy Trinity” of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit led to an association of the number three with something sacred. The triangle, with its three sides, came to be regarded as sacred as well, and a ladder of course forms a triangle, so to walk under a ladder would be to destroy the sanctity of the Trinity and thus incur punishment. Egyptians placed ladders in tombs to help one climb to heaven.

Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.

4. Broken Mirror


Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
Living Well in a Down Economy For Dummies
by The Experts at Dummies
Breakable item is a piggy bank

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Another superstition involving something cracked or broken being associated with bad luck is “stepping on a crack” as foretelling, or even causing, harm to a family member. Cracks—in the earth, on a sidewalk, or almost anywhere—have long been seen as portals to the realm of the supernatural, for both good and ill. To step on those cracks might be to invite or release unwelcome spirits into the world ready to do one harm.


Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character.

by Brit Bennett



6. Lucky Pennies
Ancient Roman, English, American
The idea that finding a penny would bring good luck originates in folk beliefs that metal, regarded as quite valuable, was sent by the gods to protect those whom they favored. Pennies are made from metal, find them and you’ll have good fortune.




Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
The London Séance Society
by New to me author Sarah Penner
The London Séance Society

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe
Earliest origins of the horseshoe’s function as a good luck charm reside in its vulval shape (seen upside down) and the invocation of the pagan moon goddess Diana and her ‘sacred vulva’. Metal was seen as both valuable and magical, iron in particular was thought by early Europeans as something capable of warding off evil spirits.

Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.

8. Friday the 13th
European/Christian
Magical significance has been attached to the number 13-- this time, it’s unlucky rather than lucky. The number 12 has frequently been seen as positive, naturally making its nearest neighboring number to the north negative. The 13th is also seen as unlucky because the 13th member at the Last Supper was Judas Iscariot, the Great Betrayer that led to Christ’s crucifixion.

Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301 pp).

9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%). The Vicious Vet by


10. Fingers Crossed
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
The superstition of crossing one’s fingers bringing the “finger-crosser” good luck comes from pre-Christian, Pagan times in Western Europe, when the practice of making a cross with your own and the index finger of another person was thought to concentrate the forces of good spirits and to seal a pact or a wish with the fellow-crosser. Over time, people realized they could bless their own wishes by simply crossing the index and middle fingers of one hand, which is what we do today.

Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover. Sowing the Seeds of Victory: American Gardening Programs of World War I by


11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Rainbows are considered a blessing across many cultures. The emergence of a rainbow is seen as a sign of hope, the beauty after the storm, a pot of gold and good fortune at the rainbow's end. After a heavy rain or storm, rainbows represent beginnings and regeneration. For many, a rainbow carries a personal symbolic meaning–representing inclusivity and diversity, an all-embracing image of love and friendship.

Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

12. The Number Four
China
Numbers are frequently assigned different magical significance or status. For the Chinese, the number “four” is a no-no, due to the similarity in its pronunciation, in Chinese, to the word for “death.”

Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character who has Asian ancestry.

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text. No Parm No Foul by


14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.


15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
The Japanese tuck in their thumbs when in a cemetery visiting the graves of dead relatives. This comes from the connection between the Japanese word for “thumb” and its meaning as the “parent finger”. To tuck one’s thumbs in inside a cemetery, then, is to protect one’s parents from death.

Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover. Ghosts of the North Coast: Legends, Mysteries and Haunted Places of Northern Ohio

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Like numbers, colors have frequently been assigned symbolic significance. In Russia, yellow flowers are problematic as they are thought to represent infidelity, separation, or even death!

Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.

17. Sweeping Feet
South America
If you happen to be on a cleaning spree, you will want to be careful with brooms. South Americans believe that if your feet are swept over by a broom you will remain single for the rest of your life. The curse🙄 can be broken, if you immediately spit on the broom. The exact origins of this superstition are unknown, but legend has it that a woman who cannot keep house, does not a good wife make.
Read a book where the MC is single.
A Week in Winter by


18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean
Depending which palm of yours begins to itch, you may find yourself in the Caribbean with a bit of extra spending money, or in the red. It is a common belief that an itchy left palm means you will owe money soon, whereas an itchy right palm means money is coming your way. The left hand seems to hold passive energy, and the right hand active energy which symbolically could explain the coming in and out of money.

Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies or struggling with debt. Andrew Jackson and the Miracle of New Orleans: The Battle That Shaped America's Destiny by
Good luck because he won the war!

I'm at Ladybug and I can get at least one more.

Better late than never!
Shooting for 🐞 by June 1.

Good Luck/Bad Luck Challenge
Start date: March 1st
Duration: 3 months from start (or as long as you need)

Levels
🐞Ladybug: 1-6 books
🍀Four-leaf Clover: 7-12 books
💫Shooting Star: 13-18 books

1. Knocking on Wood
Indo-European, Celtic
Read a book with a tree on the cover.
*

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
European/Christian, ancient Roman
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
*

3. Walking Under a Ladder
European/Christian, Egyptian
Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
*

4. Broken Mirror
Ancient Greek/Roman, European, etc.
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
*

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
African and European folklore
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where MC's mother is a key character.
*

6. Lucky Pennies
Ancient Roman, English, American
Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
*

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Ancient Roman, Celtic/British Isles, Europe
Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
*

8. Friday the 13th
European/Christian
Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301 pp).
*

9. Black Cats.
European, American, Egyptian, Asian
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).
*

10. Fingers Crossed.
Western Europe, Pagan & Christian
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
*

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Celtic, Greek, Norse, Christian, Buddhist, Native American, China & Japan
Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
*

12. The Number Four
China
Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.
*

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Verona, Italy
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
*

14. Curse of the Evil Eye.
Mediterranean, Middle East & South Asia
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
*

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Japan
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
*

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Russia
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
*

17. Sweeping Feet
South America
Read a book where the MC is single.
*

18. Itchy Palms
Caribbean
Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies or struggling with debt.
*

*

Would a telegram work for #13

is it too late to start?

rae wrote: "is it too late to start?"

You can start the challenge anytime.

Linda wrote: "Would a telegram work for #13"

Yes, I hadn't thought of that. It's how we used to text. ☺️

Nell wrote: "Linda wrote: "Would a telegram work for #13"

Yes, I hadn't thought of that. It's how we used to text. ☺️"

Oh good to know. I don't pay attention to who is texting or emailing but I would remember a telegram.

QNPoohBear wrote: "Nell wrote: "Linda wrote: "Would a telegram work for #13"

Yes, I hadn't thought of that. It's how we used to text. ☺️"

Oh good to know. I don't pay attention to who is texting or emailing but I w..."

Yeah, I haven't noticed any texting or emailing in the books I've been reading but I just read a Miss Fisher book set in 1928 and she sent telegrams.

I’ve completed the four-leaf clover level, and will move on to Shooting Star.
My books are listed at Post 11.

Helen wrote: "I’ve completed the four-leaf clover level, and will move on to Shooting Star.
My books are listed at Post 11."

Yea Helen!!

Surpassed my goal and finished this challenge!


Four-leaf clover (7-12 books)
18/18

1. Knocking on Wood
Read a book with a tree on the cover.
Murder at an Irish Wedding 4/12/23

2. Throwing Salt Over Your Shoulder
Read a mystery with a culinary theme.
Drop Dead Chocolate 4/6/23

3. Walking Under a Ladder
Read a book that is #3 in a series OR where a key character is clergy.
Murder on the Cliff 3/12/23

4. Broken Mirror
Read a book with a mirror or something glass (breakable) on the cover (e.g., window, dishes). Tell us what it is.
*Item does not have to be broken, just break-able.
A Murderous Glaze 3/3/23 (broken window on cover)

5. Step on a Crack, Break Your Mother’s Back
Read a book with a sidewalk on the cover OR where a mother is a key character. Name her.
Tastes Like Murder 3/9/23

6. Lucky Pennies
Read the 1st book in a series and/or read an author for the first time.
Kneading to Die 4/15/23

7. Lucky Horseshoe
Read a book with something upside down or toppled over on the cover.
Pleading the Fish 3/6/23

8. Friday the 13th
Read a book that is #13 in a series OR has both 1 and 3 in the page count (ex: 301, 183 or 213 pp).
Death on Tap (310 pages) 3/15/23

9. Black Cats
Read a book with a cat on the cover OR cover is black (at least 25%).
Death by Chocolate 4/20/23

10. Fingers Crossed
Read a book with a hand(s) on the cover.
Elementary, My Dear Watkins 3/18/23

11. Seeing a Rainbow
Read a book where there is stormy weather OR with rainbow colors (4 or more) on the cover. Rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
The Cracked Pot 3/24/23

12. The Number Four
Read the 4th book in a series OR a book with a key character with Asian ancestry.
Egg Drop Dead 3/30/23

13. Writing Love Letters to Juliet Capulet
Read a book where the MC writes a letter or sends an email or text.
Blood and Circuses 4/17/23

14. Curse of the Evil Eye
Read a book with eyes or any part of a face on the cover.
Death at a Premium 5/7/23

15. Tucking Thumbs in Inside of a Cemetery
Read a book with a gravestone(s) or skull and crossbones on the cover.
Powdered Peril 4/23/23

16. Giving Yellow Flowers
Read a book with a yellow cover (25% or more) OR with flowers on the cover.
The Final Vow 3/21/23

17. Sweeping Feet
Read a book where the MC is single.
Soul of a Killer 3/27/23

18. Itchy Palms
Read a book where a key character has either good luck or bad luck with money. Name the character and luck.
Good luck-> wealthy or receives a windfall (ex: inheritance, gift, lottery win)
Bad luck-> pinching pennies, struggling with debt or loses money.
Murder Has Nine Lives 3/20/23 Jaine who is always broke and her cat booked a commercial and she eventually got paid

Well done, Linda.

Hooray Linda!!

All done, see message #7.

Great fun, Nell!

Wow congrats to those who finished already!

Congratulations Meg!

Meg wrote: "All done, see message #7.

Great fun, Nell!"

I'm especially impressed with the actual rainbow! 🌈

I passed ladybug and made it to four-leaf clover!

Nell wrote: "Meg wrote: "All done, see message #7.

Great fun, Nell!"

I'm especially impressed with the actual rainbow! 🌈"

😊 I was pleasantly surprised when I found it

QNPoohBear wrote: "I passed ladybug and made it to four-leaf clover!"

You go, QNPoohBear!

QNPoohBear wrote: "I passed ladybug and made it to four-leaf clover!"

Great progress!

For Friday the 13th the total page count has to include the numbers 1 and 3. Otherwise it's way too easy! 😉

Nell wrote: "QNPoohBear wrote: "I passed ladybug and made it to four-leaf clover!"

Great progress!

For Friday the 13th the total page count has to include the numbers 1 and 3. Otherwise it's way too easy! 😉"

I replaced it! and added another one to my list.

QNPoohBear wrote: "Nell wrote: "QNPoohBear wrote: "I passed ladybug and made it to four-leaf clover!"

Great progress!

For Friday the 13th the total page count has to include the numbers 1 and 3. Otherwise it's way..."

👍🏽

I JUST made it to Shooting Star. I don't know if I can get any more any time soon.

QNPoohBear wrote: "I JUST made it to Shooting Star. I don't know if I can get any more any time soon."

Woo-Hoo!!

Updated msg. 5, finished

Wonderful Tari! Congrats!

QNPoohBear wrote: "Wonderful Tari! Congrats!"

Thank you!

I’ve just posted my 17th book at #11, and am more than halfway through my 18th.

Helen wrote: "I’ve just posted my 17th book at #11, and am more than halfway through my 18th."

Congrats Helen! You've exceeded your goal. Now you're a Shooting Star! 👋🏽

I finally got around to updating my post & turns out that I went from lady bug to four leaf clover with a total of 10 books read. I'm going to close out this challenge for myself in order to catch up on other challenges.

Congrats Becky! You're in clover 🍀

I’ve posted my last book for this challenge at #11. I’ve reached the shooting star.

Helen wrote: "I’ve posted my last book for this challenge at #11. I’ve reached the shooting star."

Yea! 🎉

Question: For face, does a silhouette or cameo count? Or a bust?