Wanderlust Challenges discussion

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
3 Months from Start

Landmarks give us a sense of place, connect us to a destination and inspire travel. Join us as we explore this iconic Russian landmark.



Complete 7 tasks.

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.

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Tasks

1. Location:
St. Basil's Cathedral is located in Russia's capital city. Its colorful domes and towers are a major focal point of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most recognized visual landmarks of the country and has stood watch over countless historical and political events in its history.
*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).

2. Construction:
The cathedral is actually a politically significant structure in its own right. It was built by order of Tsar Ivan IV, the Terrible, in 1555 to commemorate his victory and capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. This opened the way for Russia to become a true empire, expanding south towards the Caspian Sea and east to Siberia. Each of its chapels was built to represent each of his victories during this conquest. Stories and myths abound of Ivan’s raging temper, one of which involves him purposefully blinding the cathedral’s architect so that its design could never be replicated. Just a sidenote: the actual architect of the the cathedral has never been confirmed.
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).

3. Name:
The cathedral was originally dedicated to the protection of the Virgin Mary and was officially known as Trinity Church, while the main sanctuary was named the Church of the Intercession. Later the cathedral was renamed after a commoner named Basil, who was later sainted because of his prophetic powers. Following his death in 1557, he was buried in the vaults of the church.
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).

4. Design:
The design was unlike any of the cathedrals built in Europe during the time. Eight independent red brick chapels were built on a single foundation of white stone around the central nave, all aligned to points on the compass. Four of the chapels are raised to designate their position between heaven and earth. The gold onion-shaped domes were a later addition, along with a ninth chapel built for the remains of St. Basil. The brilliant colors, taken from the Biblical description of the Kingdom of Heaven in the Book of Revelation, were actually added 200 years later.
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).

5. Conversion:
During the Soviet era, the cathedral was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox community and no longer operated as a church. It was converted into a museum of history and architecture in 1928. Occasional church services have been held there since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, and every October the cathedral hosts a service in honor of the Day of Intercession.
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).

6. Interior
The inside of the cathedral is extraordinary. Each spire you see from the outside belongs to its own chapel, all interconnected by a narrow labyrinth of corridors and tiny oratories. The walls are meticulously painted with intricate floral designs and spectacular murals. A secret staircase takes you to the Church of the Intercession, and the chapel dedicated to St. Basil tells the story of his spiritual path. Each of these spaces can actually only accommodate a few worshipers at a time, so services at the temple complex were often held outdoors on an adjacent part of the Red Square.
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).

7. Replica:
It's interesting that a scale model replica of the cathedral was built in the city of Jalainur, situated in northeastern Inner Mongolia about 3200 miles west of Moscow and nearly 700 miles north of Beijing. It has never been used as a church; in fact, the beautiful turrets and domes are actually just a shell that houses a children’s science museum that sells fake fossils.
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).

Participants

Barb ~ Completed
Bev(baglady)
Book Concierge
Brenda ~ Completed
Catsalive ~ Completed
ChrisGA ~ Completed
Ed
Frankie ~ Completed
Jan
JoAnne ~ Completed
Jonquil ~ Completed
Karen ♐ ~ Completed
Mary ~ Completed
Meg ~ Completed
Olivermagnus ~ Completed
Patrizia ~ Completed
Ruth
Sally906 ~ Completed
Tari ~ Completed
Teri-k ~ Completed
Trish ~ Completed

My Spot

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
7/7

1. Location:
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (The Great War/WW 1). Miss Morgan's Book Brigade | Janet Skeslien Charles 9/5/25***


2. Construction:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (Anna). High Country | Nevada Barr 8/28/25**


3. Name:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name. Ellie Dwyer's Disappearing Act | Diane Winger 8/17/25***


4. Design:
*Read a series book #4. Ellie Dwyer's Startling Discovery | Diane Winger 7/25/25****


5. Conversion:
*Read a book that features a building that was repurposed (the buildings of an old military base were repurposed for commune living after nuclear war). The Midnight Hour | | Kate Hewitt 9/13/25***


6. Interior
*Read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (the ground fell away into a labyrinth of vertical-walled canyons). Listening Woman | Tony Hillerman 8/3/25****


7. Replica:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (7669). The Story of Arthur Truluv | Elizabeth Berg 7/29/25**

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025

7 of 7 Complete

🕌 1. Location:
Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).
A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam - Neil Sheehan - 5 Stars - 8/23/25 - Vietnam War

🕌 2. Construction:
Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name).
Nights of Awe - Harri Nykänen - 4 Stars - 7/28/25 - Ariel Kafka

🕌 3. Name:
Read a book with a title that includes a proper name.
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd - Agatha Christie - 4.5 Stars - 7/20/25

🕌 4. Design:
Read a series book #8, #4 or #9.
Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd - Alan Bradley - 4 Stars - 7/23/25 - #8 Flavia de Luce

🕌 5. Conversion:
Read a book published in the month of A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam - Neil Sheehan - 5 Stars - 8/23/25 (any year; share publication date).
Blue Smoke - Nora Roberts - 4 Stars - 7/2/25 - orig pub Oct 04, 2005

🕌 6. Interior
Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE.
Heartsick - Chelsea Cain - 4 Stars - 7/7/25 - CC

7. Replica:
Read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).
Sacred Sins - Nora Roberts - 3.5 Stars - 7/27/25 - 370 pages

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025

1. Location:
St. Basil's Cathedral is located in Russia's capital city. Its colorful domes and towers are a major focal point of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most recognized visual landmarks of the country and has stood watch over countless historical and political events in its history.
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history ==> the killing of the princes in the tower
The Daughter of Time, Josephine Tey 07/18

2. Construction:
The cathedral is actually a politically significant structure in its own right. It was built by order of Tsar Ivan IV, the Terrible, in 1555 to commemorate his victory and capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. This opened the way for Russia to become a true empire, expanding south towards the Caspian Sea and east to Siberia. Each of its chapels was built to represent each of his victories during this conquest. Stories and myths abound of Ivan’s raging temper, one of which involves him purposefully blinding the cathedral’s architect so that its design could never be replicated. Just a sidenote: the actual architect of the the cathedral has never been confirmed.
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN ==> Amelia
He Shall Thunder in the Sky, Elizabeth Peters 07/23

3. Name:
The cathedral was originally dedicated to the protection of the Virgin Mary and was officially known as Trinity Church, while the main sanctuary was named the Church of the Intercession. Later the cathedral was renamed after a commoner named Basil, who was later sainted because of his prophetic powers. Following his death in 1557, he was buried in the vaults of the church.
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle, Dorothy Gilman 07/21

4. Design:
The design was unlike any of the cathedrals built in Europe during the time. Eight independent red brick chapels were built on a single foundation of white stone around the central nave, all aligned to points on the compass. Four of the chapels are raised to designate their position between heaven and earth. The gold onion-shaped domes were a later addition, along with a ninth chapel built for the remains of St. Basil. The brilliant colors, taken from the Biblical description of the Kingdom of Heaven in the Book of Revelation, were actually added 200 years later.
*Read a book with a brilliantly colored cover
Madness in Maggody, Joan Hess 07/13

5. Conversion:
During the Soviet era, the cathedral was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox community and no longer operated as a church. It was converted into a museum of history and architecture in 1928. Occasional church services have been held there since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, and every October the cathedral hosts a service in honor of the Day of Intercession.
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER ==> 10/04/2016
The Witch and the Dead, Heather Blake 07/24

6. Interior
The inside of the cathedral is extraordinary. Each spire you see from the outside belongs to its own chapel, all interconnected by a narrow labyrinth of corridors and tiny oratories. The walls are meticulously painted with intricate floral designs and spectacular murals. A secret staircase takes you to the Church of the Intercession, and the chapel dedicated to St. Basil tells the story of his spiritual path. Each of these spaces can actually only accommodate a few worshipers at a time, so services at the temple complex were often held outdoors on an adjacent part of the Red Square.
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Murder of a Medium, Irina Shapiro 07/10

7. Replica:
It's interesting that a scale model replica of the cathedral was built in the city of Jalainur, situated in northeastern Inner Mongolia about 3200 miles west of Moscow and nearly 700 miles north of Beijing. It has never been used as a church; in fact, the beautiful turrets and domes are actually just a shell that houses a children’s science museum that sells fake fossils.
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage ==> 14,721
Queenie, Candice Carty-Williams 07/21

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
Duration: 1/7/25 - 30/9/25
7/7

Tasks

1. Location
*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).
Kill Code by Alex Shaw 4.5★s 5/8/25

2. Construction
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).
Dusk by Robbie Arnott 3.5★s 5★s 15/7/25 Iris

3. Name
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).
Death at Booroomba by A L Booth 5★s 15/7/25

4. Design
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).
The Burning by Linda Castillo 5★s 3/7/25

5. Conversion
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
Flashpoint by Tara Ellis 5★s 5/7/25 9th October 2019

6. Interior
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).
The Crag by Claire Sutherland 5★s 28/7/25

7. Replica
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count)
One Good Man by Susan Mackie 5★s 9/7/25 370 pages

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
1/7-30/9/25

7/7

1. *Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).
London Peace Celebrations (June 1814)- Murder at the Serpentine Bridge by Andrea Penrose 28 July; 5☆


2. *Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).
Annie (female MC)- Cold Case Disappearance by Shirley Jump 22 July; 4☆


3. *Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).
(view spoiler)[the title is a play on words between a plant and the name of the victim, who remains unidentified for a long time (hide spoiler)]- Mourning Gloria by Susan Wittig Albert 10 July; 4 1/2☆


4. *Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).
#4- A Scandal in Scarlet by Vicki Delany 4 July; 4 1/2☆


5. *Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
1 October 2024- Murder Among the Pyramids by Sara Rosett 20 July; 4 1/2☆


6. *Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).
Muffin But the Truth by Ellie Alexander 7 July; 4 1/2☆


7. *Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count)
6192 reviews-Un gatto per i giorni difficili (=We'll Prescribe You a Cat) by Syou Ishida 30 August; 4☆

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025

7/7 Completed. Finished

1. Location:
St. Basil's Cathedral is located in Russia's capital city. Its colorful domes and towers are a major focal point of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most recognized visual landmarks of the country and has stood watch over countless historical and political events in its history.
*Read a book that features a Russian character (tell us who)
(MC Ivan)
Ivan-Roxie Rivera 9/07/25

2. Construction:
The cathedral is actually a politically significant structure in its own right. It was built by order of Tsar Ivan IV, the Terrible, in 1555 to commemorate his victory and capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. This opened the way for Russia to become a true empire, expanding south towards the Caspian Sea and east to Siberia. Each of its chapels was built to represent each of his victories during this conquest. Stories and myths abound of Ivan’s raging temper, one of which involves him purposefully blinding the cathedral’s architect so that its design could never be replicated. Just a sidenote: the actual architect of the the cathedral has never been confirmed.
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name)
(Violet)
Night on Fire-L.T. Vargus 7/05/25

3. Name:
The cathedral was originally dedicated to the protection of the Virgin Mary and was officially known as Trinity Church, while the main sanctuary was named the Church of the Intercession. Later the cathedral was renamed after a commoner named Basil, who was later sainted because of his prophetic powers. Following his death in 1557, he was buried in the vaults of the church.
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
Riley Thorn and the Blast from the Past-Lucy Score 8/21/25

4. Design:
The design was unlike any of the cathedrals built in Europe during the time. Eight independent red brick chapels were built on a single foundation of white stone around the central nave, all aligned to points on the compass. Four of the chapels are raised to designate their position between heaven and earth. The gold onion-shaped domes were a later addition, along with a ninth chapel built for the remains of St. Basil. The brilliant colors, taken from the Biblical description of the Kingdom of Heaven in the Book of Revelation, were actually added 200 years later.
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9
(John Tyler Thriller #9)
Collision Course: A John Tyler Thriller-Tom Fowler 7/08/25

5. Conversion:
During the Soviet era, the cathedral was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox community and no longer operated as a church. It was converted into a museum of history and architecture in 1928. Occasional church services have been held there since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, and every October the cathedral hosts a service in honor of the Day of Intercession.
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date)
(10/05/21)
April in Spain-John Banville 7/02/25

6. Interior
The inside of the cathedral is extraordinary. Each spire you see from the outside belongs to its own chapel, all interconnected by a narrow labyrinth of corridors and tiny oratories. The walls are meticulously painted with intricate floral designs and spectacular murals. A secret staircase takes you to the Church of the Intercession, and the chapel dedicated to St. Basil tells the story of his spiritual path. Each of these spaces can actually only accommodate a few worshipers at a time, so services at the temple complex were often held outdoors on an adjacent part of the Red Square.
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Sheldon Siegel-Incriminating Evidence 7/24/25

7. Replica:
It's interesting that a scale model replica of the cathedral was built in the city of Jalainur, situated in northeastern Inner Mongolia about 3200 miles west of Moscow and nearly 700 miles north of Beijing. It has never been used as a church; in fact, the beautiful turrets and domes are actually just a shell that houses a children’s science museum that sells fake fossils.
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number)
(26,676)
Seven Days in June-Tia Williams 7/19/25

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
3 Months from Start
7/7
Finished!
Tasks

1. Location:

*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) Gregor Sidorenko.”
Greaney, Mark. Dead Eye (A Gray Man Novel Book 4) (p. 6).
Dead EyeMark Greaney 08/05

2. Construction:

*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (Ashton)
Maple Sugar Mix-UpKallie Frost 09/11

3. Name:

*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
A Mate for HudsonLorelei M. Hart 09/07
4. Design:

*Read a series book #9 Colt Ryder #9
The Thousand Dollar ChristmasJ.T. Brannan 08/08


5. Conversion:
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER ( Oct 23, 2018)

The Alpha's Candy-Kissed OmegaLorelei M. Hart 08/07

6. Interior
Gunmetal GrayMark Greaney 08/08
*Read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).
The woman looked at her bloody hand and arm; Court reminded her that she needed to run, and soon she did just that, disappearing through the thick gray smoke and down the labyrinth of halls towards the stairs.

Greaney, Mark. Gunmetal Gray (Gray Man Book 6) (p. 340). .


7. Replica:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (num ratings 101,479)
Worth Dying ForLee Child 08/03

Thanks for joining everyone!

LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL, 7/1 – 9/30
7/7 COMPLETE

1. LOCATION:
* Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what)
establishment of the CCC, the FDIC, more : The Darling Dahlias and the Unlucky Clover (Darling Dahlias #7), by Susan Wittig Albert, finished 7/2/25 ★★★.5

2. CONSTRUCTION:
* Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name)
Vera : Harbour Street (Vera Stanhope #6), by Ann Cleeves, finished 7/13/25 ★★★★

3. NAME:
* Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
The Ballad of Smallhope and Pennyroyal, by Jodi Taylor, finished 7/8/25 ★★★★
Smallhope and Pennyroyal are the main characters

4. DESIGN:
* Read a series book #8, #4 or #9
The Crowded Grave (Bruno, Chief of Police #4), by Martin Walker, finished 7/16/25 ★★★★

5. CONVERSION:
* Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date)
publ 10-3-17 : Saving Worms After the Rain, by Paul C. Nelson, finished 8/5/25 ★★★.5

6. INTERIOR
* Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
author Irina Shapiro – Murder on Platform Four (Tate & Bell #5), by Irina Shapiro, finished 7/3/25 ★★★★

7. REPLICA:
* Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number)
15,969 reviews : What You are Looking For is in the Library, by Michiko Aoyama, finished 7/22/25 ★★★★

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
1/7-30/9/25
7/7

1. *Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history - Waterloo
Pistols for Two by Georgette Heyer 17/7 4★

2. *Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN - Alice
A Killing of Angels by Kate Rhodes 8/7 3.5★

3. *Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
New York to Dallas by J.D. Robb 4/7 4★

4. *Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 - Sookie Stackhouse #9
Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris 2/7 3★

5. *Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER - 11/10/22
One Last Gift by Emily Stone 16/7 3★

6. *Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Fault Lines by Emily Itami 24/7 4★

7. *Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage - 5902
Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris 9/7 2★

Welcome Barb & Kylie!

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1-Sept. 30, 2025
7/7

1. *Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).
It mentioned someone being born in the era of Civil Rights and the tail end of the Black Power Movement Savvy Summers and the Sweet Potato Crimes Sandra Jackson-Opoku 7/28/25

2. *Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).
(view spoiler)[Maya’s husband Max has anger issues and punched a guy without remembering he was on parole. It sent the guy to the hospital but he didn’t press charges luckily (hide spoiler)] Murder at the High School Reunion Lee Hollis 7/3/25

3. *Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).
First published as Scene of the Climb, now it’s called A Murder on the Mountain A Murder on the Mountain Ellie Alexander 7/21/25

4. *Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).
#4 Chloe Lane Mysteries Murder Served Cold Daisy Belle 7/4/25

5. *Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
Warehouse turned into a cooking school and apartment for owner Murder Cooks Cajun Kristine Frost 8/7/25

6. *Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).
AC Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library Amanda Chapman 8/24/25

7. *Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).
170 Halloween Hearsay Kathleen Suzette 8/16/25

Welcome Tari!

Jan wrote: "Welcome Tari!"

Thanks, Jan!

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
Begins: 01July25 / Ends: 31 July



6 / 7 Completed


1. Location *Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history - JFK assassination - 11/22/63 ✔ – 16July25

2. Construction *Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN - Avan is mc in Tooth and Claw ✔ – 17July25

3. Name *Read a book with a title that includes a proper name - It's Been a Pleasure, Noni Blake ✔ – 03July25

4. Design *Read a book with a brilliantly colored cover - ✔ – 04Aug25

5. Conversion *Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER - 20 Oct 2020 - A Dog's Perfect Christmas ✔ – 13July25

6. Interior
The inside of the cathedral is extraordinary. Each spire you see from the outside belongs to its own chapel, all interconnected by a narrow labyrinth of corridors and tiny oratories. The walls are meticulously painted with intricate floral designs and spectacular murals. A secret staircase takes you to the Church of the Intercession, and the chapel dedicated to St. Basil tells the story of his spiritual path. Each of these spaces can actually only accommodate a few worshipers at a time, so services at the temple complex were often held outdoors on an adjacent part of the Red Square.
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).

7. Replica *Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage - 10,979 reviews - The Sentence ✔ – 26July25


.

Welcome BC!

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
7/7

1. Location:
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what). - The House on Un-American Activities committee hearings in the 1950's - The Lunar Housewife Caroline Woods - 7/26/25

2. Construction:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) - Austin-Christmas in Quincy Devney Perry - 7/8/25

3. Name:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name - The Awakening of Ivy Leavold Sierra Simone - 7/10/25

4. Design:
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 - No More Spies Lexi Blake - 7/9/25

5. Conversion:
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) - Pub 10/24/23 - Off Course Nicole Edwards - 7/17/25

6. Interior
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE - The Casanova T.L. Swan - 7/5/25

7. Replica:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) - 12,177 reviews-Juniper Hill Devney Perry - 7/18/25

Thanks for joining Karen!

WC LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL, 7/7 – 10/6
Read: 7/7

1. LOCATION:
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history.
Sinking of USS Indianapolis Lightning Strike William Kent Krueger 7/20/25

2. CONSTRUCTION:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN.
Alice These Summer Storms Sarah MacLean 7/9/25

3. NAME:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name.
A Book of Murder in Notchey Creek Liz S. Andrews 7/16/25

4. DESIGN:
*Read a series book #9.
Seabreeze Honeymoon Jan Moran 7/15/25 (Summer Beach #9)

5. CONVERSION:
*Read a book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
An old grist mill is fixed up and turned into a coffee shop. Cape Cod Kisses Bella Andre 7/13/2025


6. INTERIOR
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE.
Pecan Pie for Breakfast Susan Schild 7/8/25

7. REPLICA:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage.
3869 reviews Some Girls Bite Chloe Neill 7/12/25

Thanks for joining JoAnne!

LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL, 7/1 – 9/30


❎1. LOCATION:
* a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).9/11 crashes.Three Weeks in WashingtonLuana Ehrlich11/25/25

❎2. CONSTRUCTION:
*Read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details). (view spoiler)[ guilty character harasses, hits over head with crowbar, rams into their car . (hide spoiler)]Torrents of FearChristy Barritt10/29/25

❎3. NAME:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name. Exposed in EdinburghScarlett Moss 7/25/25

❎4. DESIGN:
*Read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).
Leveled in London Scarlett Moss
7/25/25

❎5. CONVERSION:
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date). 10/29/2019. Shot Through the HearthKate Carlisle7/27/25

❎6. INTERIOR
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE. Missing in FlightAudrey J. Cole7/11/25

❎7. REPLICA:
*Read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count). 170 pp. The Worst Reunion EverCharlotte Moore7/16/25.

Have fun Chris!

A bit late to the party, but I'll give it a go.

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
9 July 2025 - 30 September 2025

7 of 7 Complete

1. Location: *Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).

The Castlemaine Murders, Kerry Greenwood - 07/08/25
While it’s set in 1928 or so, the main plot (murdered man, lost gold) revolves around the Australian Gold Rush of the 1850s around Castlemaine– specifically in 1857.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Austral....

2. Construction: *Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).

A Murder for the Books, Victoria Gilbert – 31/07/25
The MC is called Amy Webber.

3. Name: *Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).

Angelica's Smile, Andrea Camilleri – 30/07/25
Angelica is one of the characters in the book.

4. Design: *Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).

So Let Them Burn, Kamilah Cole – 21/07/25
Bright cover (well, I think it's bright):


5. Conversion: *Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).

Telling Lies, L.A. Dobbs – 01/08/25
Repurposed building - the old post office is now a police station: “Like most small towns, the government offices had to make do with what they had. The police station had recently moved from the basement of the town hall to the old post office. The post office had gotten its own fancy new building. Apparently, mail was a priority over crime fighting in White Rock.” Page 23, kindle edition.

6. Interior: *Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).

Cat Got Your Killer, Sofie Ryann – 06/08/25
Author initials: SecRet.

7. Replica: *Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).

Acceptance, Jeff VanderMeer – 04/08/25
76,437 ratings, 7,676 reviews as of 04/08/25
76,702 ratings, 7,722 reviews as of 14/08/25

St. Basil's Cathedral - COMPLETED

Duration: 3 months from start
July 9 - Oct 8

1. Location: ✔️
Task: Read a book that features a Russian character (tell us who)
Book read: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead - 10/07/25
How it fits: Dimitri Belikov is a Russian dhampir

2. Construction: ✔️
Task: Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN
Book read: Sparks Fly in Featherwood Falls by Heather Reyburn - 14/07/25
How it fits: MC is Ashleigh

3. Name:✔️
Task: Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
Book read: Eva Reddy's Trip of a Lifetime by Fiona McKenzie Kekic - 16/07/25
How it fits: Proper name in title

4. Design: ✔️
Task: Read a book with a brilliantly coloured cover (post cover)
Book read: The Mayor's Stalked Mail Order Bride by Amelia Rose - 10/07/25
How it fits: Beautiful coloured wildflowers on the cover

5. Conversion:✔️
Task: Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER
Book read: Me and My Ghoulfriends by Rose Pressey - 26/07/25
How it fits: My edition published October 6, 2008

6. Interior:✔️
Task: Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Book read: What Devilry is This? by Sam Cheever - 11/07/25
How it fits: Author’s initials are S C

7. Replica: ✔️
Task: Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage
Book read: Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto - 06/08/25
How it fits: Has 24,211 reviews

Welcome Trish & Sally!

FINISHED
WC LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL, 7/7 – 7/20
Read: 7/7

1. LOCATION:
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history.
Sinking of USS Indianapolis Lightning Strike William Kent Krueger 7/20/25

2. CONSTRUCTION:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN.
Alice These Summer Storms Sarah MacLean 7/9/25

3. NAME:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name.
A Book of Murder in Notchey Creek Liz S. Andrews 7/16/25

4. DESIGN:
*Read a series book #9.
Seabreeze Honeymoon Jan Moran 7/15/25 (Summer Beach #9)

5. CONVERSION:
*Read a book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
An old grist mill is fixed up and turned into a coffee shop. Cape Cod Kisses Bella Andre 7/13/2025

6. INTERIOR
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE.
Pecan Pie for Breakfast Susan Schild 7/8/25

7. REPLICA:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage.
3869 reviews Some Girls Bite Chloe Neill 7/12/25

Completed!

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025

1. Location:
St. Basil's Cathedral is located in Russia's capital city. Its colorful domes and towers are a major focal point of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most recognized visual landmarks of the country and has stood watch over countless historical and political events in its history.
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history ==> the killing of the princes in the tower
The Daughter of Time, Josephine Tey 07/18

2. Construction:
The cathedral is actually a politically significant structure in its own right. It was built by order of Tsar Ivan IV, the Terrible, in 1555 to commemorate his victory and capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. This opened the way for Russia to become a true empire, expanding south towards the Caspian Sea and east to Siberia. Each of its chapels was built to represent each of his victories during this conquest. Stories and myths abound of Ivan’s raging temper, one of which involves him purposefully blinding the cathedral’s architect so that its design could never be replicated. Just a sidenote: the actual architect of the the cathedral has never been confirmed.
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN ==> Amelia
He Shall Thunder in the Sky, Elizabeth Peters 07/23

3. Name:
The cathedral was originally dedicated to the protection of the Virgin Mary and was officially known as Trinity Church, while the main sanctuary was named the Church of the Intercession. Later the cathedral was renamed after a commoner named Basil, who was later sainted because of his prophetic powers. Following his death in 1557, he was buried in the vaults of the church.
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle, Dorothy Gilman 07/21

4. Design:
The design was unlike any of the cathedrals built in Europe during the time. Eight independent red brick chapels were built on a single foundation of white stone around the central nave, all aligned to points on the compass. Four of the chapels are raised to designate their position between heaven and earth. The gold onion-shaped domes were a later addition, along with a ninth chapel built for the remains of St. Basil. The brilliant colors, taken from the Biblical description of the Kingdom of Heaven in the Book of Revelation, were actually added 200 years later.
*Read a book with a brilliantly colored cover
Madness in Maggody, Joan Hess 07/13

5. Conversion:
During the Soviet era, the cathedral was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox community and no longer operated as a church. It was converted into a museum of history and architecture in 1928. Occasional church services have been held there since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, and every October the cathedral hosts a service in honor of the Day of Intercession.
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER ==> 10/04/2016
The Witch and the Dead, Heather Blake 07/24

6. Interior
The inside of the cathedral is extraordinary. Each spire you see from the outside belongs to its own chapel, all interconnected by a narrow labyrinth of corridors and tiny oratories. The walls are meticulously painted with intricate floral designs and spectacular murals. A secret staircase takes you to the Church of the Intercession, and the chapel dedicated to St. Basil tells the story of his spiritual path. Each of these spaces can actually only accommodate a few worshipers at a time, so services at the temple complex were often held outdoors on an adjacent part of the Red Square.
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Murder of a Medium, Irina Shapiro 07/10

7. Replica:
It's interesting that a scale model replica of the cathedral was built in the city of Jalainur, situated in northeastern Inner Mongolia about 3200 miles west of Moscow and nearly 700 miles north of Beijing. It has never been used as a church; in fact, the beautiful turrets and domes are actually just a shell that houses a children’s science museum that sells fake fossils.
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage ==> 14,721
Queenie, Candice Carty-Williams 07/21

Terrific job JoAnne & Meg!

Thanks, Jan!

Done

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
1/7-30/9/25
7/7

1. *Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history - Waterloo
Pistols for Two by Georgette Heyer 17/7 4★

2. *Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN - Alice
A Killing of Angels by Kate Rhodes 8/7 3.5★

3. *Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
New York to Dallas by J.D. Robb 4/7 4★

4. *Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 - Sookie Stackhouse #9
Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris 2/7 3★

5. *Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER - 11/10/22
One Last Gift by Emily Stone 16/7 3★

6. *Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Fault Lines by Emily Itami 24/7 4★

7. *Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage - 5902
Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris 9/7 2★

Way to go Kylie!

LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL
7/1 – 9/30/25

Initial and completion post.

7/7 DONE

1. LOCATION:
* mentions a historical or political event in history -- the eugenics movement The Purity of Vengeance Jussi Adler-Olsen 7/18

2. CONSTRUCTION:
* MC 1st name starts with a letter in IVAN Irene The Case Book of Irene Adler San Cassimally 7/25

3. NAME:
* title includes a proper name Fat Chance, Charlie Vega Crystal Maldonado 7/20

4. DESIGN:
* series book #4 (Ten Beach Road, #4) Sunshine Beach Wendy Wax 7/3

5. CONVERSION:
* published in OCTOBER Oct 14, 2013 The Star Family Theresa Crater 7/17

6. INTERIOR
*author initials in SECRET STAIRCASE First of Their Kind C.D. Tavenor 7/15

7. REPLICA:
* 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage -- 5,481 reviews Caught Harlan Coben 7/2

FINISHED!

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
7/7

1. Location:
*Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what). - The House on Un-American Activities committee hearings in the 1950's - The Lunar Housewife Caroline Woods - 7/26/25

2. Construction:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) - Austin-Christmas in Quincy Devney Perry - 7/8/25

3. Name:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name - The Awakening of Ivy Leavold Sierra Simone - 7/10/25

4. Design:
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 - No More Spies Lexi Blake - 7/9/25

5. Conversion:
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) - Pub 10/24/23 - Off Course Nicole Edwards - 7/17/25

6. Interior
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE - The Casanova T.L. Swan - 7/5/25

7. Replica:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) - 12,177 reviews-Juniper Hill Devney Perry - 7/18/25

Way to go Jonquil& Karen!

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
July 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
4/7

1. Location:
St. Basil's Cathedral is located in Russia's capital city. Its colorful domes and towers are a major focal point of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most recognized visual landmarks of the country and has stood watch over countless historical and political events in its history.
*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what). Much of the novel centers around the attempts to pass The Irish Land Reform Acts - Phineas Finn by Anthony Trollope-8/16/25

2. Construction:
The cathedral is actually a politically significant structure in its own right. It was built by order of Tsar Ivan IV, the Terrible, in 1555 to commemorate his victory and capture of Kazan and Astrakhan. This opened the way for Russia to become a true empire, expanding south towards the Caspian Sea and east to Siberia. Each of its chapels was built to represent each of his victories during this conquest. Stories and myths abound of Ivan’s raging temper, one of which involves him purposefully blinding the cathedral’s architect so that its design could never be replicated. Just a sidenote: the actual architect of the the cathedral has never been confirmed.
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) -Abel Azari in Mirror Town by Daniel Nayeri-9/17/25-
OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).

3. Name:
The cathedral was originally dedicated to the protection of the Virgin Mary and was officially known as Trinity Church, while the main sanctuary was named the Church of the Intercession. Later the cathedral was renamed after a commoner named Basil, who was later sainted because of his prophetic powers. Following his death in 1557, he was buried in the vaults of the church.
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name - -Zeno's Conscience by Italo Svevo- 8/28/25
OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).

4. Design:
The design was unlike any of the cathedrals built in Europe during the time. Eight independent red brick chapels were built on a single foundation of white stone around the central nave, all aligned to points on the compass. Four of the chapels are raised to designate their position between heaven and earth. The gold onion-shaped domes were a later addition, along with a ninth chapel built for the remains of St. Basil. The brilliant colors, taken from the Biblical description of the Kingdom of Heaven in the Book of Revelation, were actually added 200 years later.
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).

5. Conversion:
During the Soviet era, the cathedral was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox community and no longer operated as a church. It was converted into a museum of history and architecture in 1928. Occasional church services have been held there since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, and every October the cathedral hosts a service in honor of the Day of Intercession.
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).

6. Interior
The inside of the cathedral is extraordinary. Each spire you see from the outside belongs to its own chapel, all interconnected by a narrow labyrinth of corridors and tiny oratories. The walls are meticulously painted with intricate floral designs and spectacular murals. A secret staircase takes you to the Church of the Intercession, and the chapel dedicated to St. Basil tells the story of his spiritual path. Each of these spaces can actually only accommodate a few worshipers at a time, so services at the temple complex were often held outdoors on an adjacent part of the Red Square.
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE - -Arrow of God by Chinua Achebe-10/31/25
OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).

7. Replica:
It's interesting that a scale model replica of the cathedral was built in the city of Jalainur, situated in northeastern Inner Mongolia about 3200 miles west of Moscow and nearly 700 miles north of Beijing. It has never been used as a church; in fact, the beautiful turrets and domes are actually just a shell that houses a children’s science museum that sells fake fossils.
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).

Welcome Ed!

LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL,
July 1 – September 30, 2025

7/7 COMPLETE

1. LOCATION:
*Read a that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).
Bloomsbury Girls by Natalie Jenner 8/15
Several WWII events, Churchill losing an election, etc.

2. CONSTRUCTION:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name)
They Found Him Dead by Georgette Heyer 8/2
Adrian

3. NAME:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name.
Lois the Witch by Elizabeth Gaskell 8/14

4. DESIGN:
*Read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).
The Bodyguard by Katherine Center 8/3
See cover below.

5. CONVERSION:
*Read a book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
Discount Armageddon by Seanan McGuire 8/7
A meat packing plant is disguised by magic to become a lush home for dragon queens.

6. INTERIOR
*Read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).
Chaos Choreography by Seanan McGuire 8/13
"You seem to have found the only reality show filmed atop a labyrinth." location 1255

7. REPLICA:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number)
The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett 8/18
8,736 reviews

Welcome to the challenge Teri!

St. Basil's Cathedral - COMPLETED

Duration: 3 months from start
July 9 - Oct 8

1. Location: ✔️
Task: Read a book that features a Russian character (tell us who)
Book read: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead - 10/07/25
How it fits: Dimitri Belikov is a Russian dhampir

2. Construction: ✔️
Task: Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN
Book read: Sparks Fly in Featherwood Falls by Heather Reyburn - 14/07/25
How it fits: MC is Ashleigh

3. Name:✔️
Task: Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
Book read: Eva Reddy's Trip of a Lifetime by Fiona McKenzie Kekic - 16/07/25
How it fits: Proper name in title

4. Design: ✔️
Task: Read a book with a brilliantly coloured cover (post cover)
Book read: The Mayor's Stalked Mail Order Bride by Amelia Rose - 10/07/25
How it fits: Beautiful coloured wildflowers on the cover

5. Conversion:✔️
Task: Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER
Book read: Me and My Ghoulfriends by Rose Pressey - 26/07/25
How it fits: My edition published October 6, 2008

6. Interior:✔️
Task: Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
Book read: What Devilry is This? by Sam Cheever - 11/07/25
How it fits: Author’s initials are S C

7. Replica: ✔️
Task: Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage
Book read: Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto - 06/08/25
How it fits: Has 24,211 reviews

Way to go Sally!!

sign me up please

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
08/01/2025 - 10/31/2025

1. Location:
*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).

2. Construction:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).

3. Name:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).

4. Design:
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).

5. Conversion:
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).

6. Interior
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).

7. Replica:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).

Welcome to the challenge Bev!

Finished

LANDMARKS OF THE WORLD - ST. BASIL'S CATHEDRAL, 7/1 – 9/30
7/7 COMPLETE

1. LOCATION:
* Read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what)
establishment of the CCC, the FDIC, more : The Darling Dahlias and the Unlucky Clover (Darling Dahlias #7), by Susan Wittig Albert, finished 7/2/25 ★★★.5

2. CONSTRUCTION:
* Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name)
Vera : Harbour Street (Vera Stanhope #6), by Ann Cleeves, finished 7/13/25 ★★★★

3. NAME:
* Read a book with a title that includes a proper name
The Ballad of Smallhope and Pennyroyal, by Jodi Taylor, finished 7/8/25 ★★★★
Smallhope and Pennyroyal are the main characters

4. DESIGN:
* Read a series book #8, #4 or #9
The Crowded Grave (Bruno, Chief of Police #4), by Martin Walker, finished 7/16/25 ★★★★

5. CONVERSION:
* Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date)
publ 10-3-17 : Saving Worms After the Rain, by Paul C. Nelson, finished 8/5/25 ★★★.5

6. INTERIOR
* Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE
author Irina Shapiro – Murder on Platform Four (Tate & Bell #5), by Irina Shapiro, finished 7/3/25 ★★★★

7. REPLICA:
* Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number)
15,969 reviews : What You are Looking For is in the Library, by Michiko Aoyama, finished 7/22/25 ★★★★

Finished :)

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
Duration: 1/7/25 - 30/9/25
7/7

Tasks

1. Location
*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).
Kill Code by Alex Shaw 4.5★s 5/8/25

2. Construction
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).
Dusk by Robbie Arnott 3.5★s 5★s 15/7/25 Iris

3. Name
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).
Death at Booroomba by A L Booth 5★s 15/7/25

4. Design
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).
The Burning by Linda Castillo 5★s 3/7/25

5. Conversion
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).
Flashpoint by Tara Ellis 5★s 5/7/25 9th October 2019

6. Interior
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).
The Crag by Claire Sutherland 5★s 28/7/25

7. Replica
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count)
One Good Man by Susan Mackie 5★s 9/7/25 370 pages

Great job Barb & Brenda!

Thanks, Jan :)

Thank you Jan :)

Landmarks of the World - St. Basil's Cathedral
08/01/2025 - 10/31/2025

1. Location:
*Read a book set in Russia or one that features a Russian character (tell us who) OR read a book that mentions a historical or political event in history (tell us what).

2. Construction:
*Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in IVAN (share name) OR read a book where an important character's anger causes physical harm (briefly share details).

3. Name:
*Read a book with a title that includes a proper name OR read a book that was published under more than one title (share both title names).

4. Design:
*Read a series book #8, #4 or #9 OR read a book with a brilliantly colored cover (post cover).

5. Conversion:
*Read a book published in the month of OCTOBER (any year; share publication date) OR read book that features a building that was repurposed (share details telling us both original and new use of building).

6. Interior
*Read a book by an author whose first and last initial can be found in SECRET STAIRCASE OR read a book with the word LABYRINTH found in its text (share text).

7. Replica:
*Read a book with over 3200 reviews on its GR Homepage (share number) OR read a book with 7 AND 0 in its total page count (share page count).