S.’s Comments (group member since Feb 10, 2021)

S.’s comments from the Gentle SPECTRUMS group.

Carolyn, this was what exactly I didn't like in this book. If we couldn't believe in the narrator then what is the meaning of the story?!
Yes, there were twists in the story and a liar narrator which is new. But, it is an almost Deus-ex-machina to me, too.

This wasn't my favorite. You are right about the dry story. Hastings as a narrator has more fun and emotions, also he knows Hercule better, so we'll have a pleasant read! Also, we can expect Aghata that improve and enhance in the next books. My favorite Hercule Poirot was the last one, Curtain!

"The ring wasn't discussed again and we don't know why anyone threw it, do we? However, it must have been from Ralph to Ursula." Right we know the ring was for them. Ursula could be angry and sad after fighting with Ralph, right? and threw it away!

I didn't use last names by purpose. Honestly, I didn't pay attention much. In some countries, people use to calling each other by their first name. No matter how much they know each other, have very different ages, or even are in different social levels. I know a in Turkey is like that (eg. Professor Ali), even Afghanistan is a little so. I don't know about Canada but, I saw some professors (who came here for a short term) from European countries and they call everybody by their first names. :) It's lovely and I liked that.
But in Iran, we are not acting like that at all. I completely agree with you, it is not beautiful. We should be so familiar and friendly to call him/or her by their first name! It would be so strange if I call someone in university by his first name.
I tell you something funny, even here in Goodreads, I sometimes surprise when someone calls me Shirin and feel good. :)

Hi Carolyn, I finished the book. But as I writing this, imagine I didn't know about the last three chapters book. We'll discuss the end late later.

Horace?? Do you mean Blunt, the hunter, right? He mentioned once that inherited 20000 pounds (if I recall correctly) a while ago, but not from Roger, from a distant relative. Oddly, he inherited so much money on the time when blackmailed from Mrs. Ferrars. But I think he wasn't in this town the last year. So maybe we can only suspect him as a new secret lover. :)

Flora's Mom not a good person in my eye, but I don't know if she has the courage enough to do murder or blackmail!

Geoffrey, If we imagine he and flora have affair, he could be murder! They kill Roger and then set up for Ralph.

"Would you please try again to translate your fourth sentence: "I think she was the girl who faired by Roger"? " I'm sorry, I think google corrected the word wrong! Fired, I think Roger got fired Ursula because he find out about her secret relationship with Ralph!

"I hate Agatha describing women so stupidly as "giving a scream" or even more irritating, "giving a little scream". Who the fuck acts like that!?" Haha, maybe it's not her fault we don't know exactly what women were alike at that time. But as a woman writer, you are right, we expect her more.

"Deus-ex-machina" happy to know about this expression now! I didn't hear it before. But I've read this kind of book, they aren't so compelling. I like to know the killer is somewhere near. :)

I gave this book 4-star. Yes, it's really depending on the ending, it was surprising but not very smart!

I'm currently read chapter 21, think will finish it today. We know more about Flora now. "We don't know if she loves Ralph," I think she doesn't because of what Caroline said about their relationship. Also, Caroline heard Ralph talking to a woman in wood, I think she was the girl who faired by Roger, she was so worried about Ralph! and about Ralph, I think the likely reason as you mention is he scared about something that he did but not a murder, maybe blackmailing?

"your translation refers to the housekeeper, Miss Russell." Yes, Miss Russell, we know about her secret now, she doesn't seem to have any part in murder and blackmail anymore. But Blunt is still a suspect, I don't like him at all. Maybe he's the one who blackmailed Mrs. Ferrars! He inherited lots of money.

What do you think about Reymond, the secretary? Could he blackmail and saw the letter and murder Roger? Or as Poirot said, the letter has been fired by Roger himself?

Carolyn, I'm very happy that you and Ron enjoyed your time was in England.
"Someday when Iran gives free access to visiting women without confusing clothing rules" I really hope to see it and welcome you here. <3
"English is terrible to learn for people who are not born into it." Yes, It's terrible. :) you know, we can't even translate word by word Persian to English, Very different in verbs and sentences. But overall it's beautiful to learn and read in English, I like it. Thank you for corrected and help to improve my writing.

I'm finished chapter 12. First I should mention, I liked that Poirot was likened to a cat with green eyes. :) I know he could sometimes be selfish but I like him, he makes me laugh and is smart. He immediately guesses about the fingerprint!
There is a problem, maybe I didn't understand that part. On the night that Mr.Ackroyd died, police wrote a list, and everybody's place was clear (except Orsulla, who everything about her was so suspicious, but why did she want her master dead? do I mention her name correctly?). So why the hunter was on the balcony and he didn't know where Raymond was? It is like these two could be the suspect!
I find a new and very bold suspect. :) Flora, could she frame all this for her betrayer fiance? She liked to be free and independent. Also, the last one who talked to Mr. Ackroyd was her, didn't she?

You beautifully describe Colchester Carolyn! I always enjoy the accident building. You mention the voice from the wall, this is exactly what I feel about these old tall stone walls, sense past souls that stayed!

I referred to the hobby for "squash", you are right, maybe it is the wrong word. :) I meant he grows vegetables, as he retired, need to do something, right? :) I think he only retired from his first job. Around him always some mysterious things happen that don't let him be retired. :)

I just finished chapter 5. Yes, Ralph seems guilty, but I think he did something wrong but not murder. His fiancé's mother looks very suspicious, and worried about financial problems but, maybe is a little the obvious choice too, don't you think so? Perhaps we could remove Caroline from the suspect list, she wasn't at the crime scene!
2 very suspicious people remain. Parker and the housekeeper! She wants to be her wife and he looked nervous or maybe just curious to know everything about his master! And let's do not forget that someone called Doctor (probably murderer), why should he do that?

I just finished chapter 3 (28 pages). Yes, I am reading in Persian and I haven't the character list! There are 297 pages and 27 chapters with contents!

It's amazing you visited there and can easily imagine the little old town. I like the story is set in a small village, with fewer people, this means someone near is hiding something.
I didn't enjoy gossip too, it's annoying, poisoning our minds. Although gossip in this book is not disturbing, I think the purpose is to getting us information about characters and distract us. But, as you mention, Caroline is not pleasant.

"We meet Roger Ackroyd and I really like him. I am sorry for the title of this book!" ... Too shame we know something will happen to him. He is anxious but I don't think he scares for his life!
Porrott :) The little man, I liked him as before with his new unsuccessful hobby. :) Squash, right?

Agatha Christie as a successful women writer, I really hope to see strong women in her book!

Dear Carolyn, I start reading "The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd" today. Yes, We can talk about it every day. I take a time and write about it 8 to 11 P.M.

It is good to know about Kerri's birthday, thank you for remind me. Unfortunately, I'm not good at remembering dates. :)
Please don't pause your book, we can start it after Sunday too. meanwhile, I can finish Gemmell's book.

Dear Carolyn, my currently reading list is audiobooks, there is no problem for us to start "Roger Ackroyd". Yes, you mention a good point, talking about stories while they are unrolling for us. specially Poirot book that I know we can find many suspects while we are reading. :) As we arranged for our previous books, we can write about the story every night! I should be at university in the next two days. So if it's okay for you, we can start the book on Sunday. I will add it to my currently reading and check for your update.

Good morning to you dear Carolyn. It's a good idea, I will clear up my other books first. I think a day or two would be a good time to start.
I hope this be one of the best Agatha Christie and we'll enjoy it.

Hi Carolyn,
I'm very glad we want to start this book. I heard this is one of the most famous Agatha Christie. I'm sorry to hear you don't find the last few books very interesting. I didn't read Agatha Christie's books in order. I read the first book and enjoyed it, but didn't keep order and read upper number books next.
I'm currently reading some books, but there is no problem, I can start "The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd" too. :) I borrowed this from the library a few weeks ago. So, I'll start reading this in Persian whenever you are ready.

Dear Carolyn, I believe reading every book may be a gift especially when they are gifts from someone very dear. I didn't read "Not Without My Daughter", and I think it's a little harsh about Iranian culture in older times.
I don't read many biographies, but I like to read there few you mention them. I should open a new tag for memories. :)

"I disliked Shepcote quite early on when you realise that his story that he tells the boys is more false than true," Good point! He was so hypocritical and as Carolyn mentioned, he had could help boys with works hours and payment.

"would he let his Daughter be in jeapardy of having anything to do with the scumbag?" I don't think he wanted to put his daughter in danger nor married to a coachman. Its look was just something that Cannon said when he was angry. Like a threat.

"if he was so worried about such stretches as Alice and Ettie recognizing his carriage; why did they not pursue Therese after she ran?" Alice started to talk, That's why Ettie was worried that the killer will come after her too. maybe they didn't want to kill them in the first place. But, after reward and seeing Alice who was talking around, decided to kill them both.
Well, I hope better Maureen too. Then we wouldn't need to solve so many questions. :)

Carolyn, I'm happy you find these, I didn't see English versions. Khosrow and Shirin, Shirin and Farhad are the same stories. When I checked for Nizami's poetry in English, Khosrow and Shirin were translated. Although Layla and Majnun is a very beautiful love story too.
I'm happy you enjoyed this book and find it helpful. Waiting to see your full review about it. I don't know Patrick Swayze but, I liked to read his positive autobiography.

Carolyn, thank you for letting me know about your conversation with your Dad. I wish him the best and a quick recovery. I understand that the Persian alphabet looks confusing. :) You know, we write from the right, so when for the first time want to write English, should start with the left side and it is strange. Try to write from the right, even without the Persian alphabet, it's very odd and will make you laugh. :) Now I want to read "Worth Fighting For" haha.

"It was entirely superfluous to the plot, which was worse." Again, it seems I lost something in translated version!!!

"why exactly did Canning and Shepcote kill Therese? Was it just for the thrill of it?" I think that was just an accidental drugged and freezing.
"Therese chose to get herself out of the attacks and at least see her church leader for help. Another intelligent alternative." Yes, this was a good decision. Although as you mentioned, she could tell Donalda too.
I think Mr. Shipley was probably under coachman's control and was drugging that he couldn't think properly right about the children who work on the street.

Yes, Iran has mountains but plenty of water not a result of that. If we want to describe it in one word, it is desert. But, we have lakes, rivers, seas (not ocean), forests in the north and west of the country. Mostly it is like Afghanistan plus Turkey.
Carolyn, how amazing that you met internet friends around the world. Yes, dreams can come true. I never traveled to another country, it is great to see other cultures and cities.
I hope you have a great weekend celebrating. :) <3

"Shirin, what does your last sentence mean?" I mean this wasn't all about William. Arthure, Ettie, Mrs. Rhodes, and even Mr. Quinn all are described and involve, like the priest in the short book.

"He is a sweet person for loving to dance, cherishing his fiancée's picture, making sure the yelling dogs were all right" Yes, exactly. He is a lovely conscientious person. "tidal waves" was so funny. He looks like a little boy. :)
Yes, He mentioned a ship, twice, and I suppose was the one in "Shipwreck.
"I don't trust any of the Rhodes family." it's true, it seems all of them are lying about something.
"I never like multiple points of view" I always like it, remind me that things are not exactly what we see. Especially when one happen or dialogue retell by two persons, I understand how misunderstanding happens. Also, I see your point of view can be quite right, Carolyn.

"Did the book say they had children or how old the couple is?" No, I didn't read such things and I wonder why they call "Mother" and "Father" each other! For being respectful maybe!!

Today I finished the book. I will write about it tomorrow more and we can discuss it.

Carolyn, I don't recommend the political books of my country. We don't have mystery books much. But, We have a lot of beautiful poems that I know they translated to English, sometimes as stories. One of the famous ones is "Shirin & Farhad", a love story written by Nizami 800 years ago. So, I recommend reading the older stories by Iranian authors. Hahaha, my name came from this story. :)

Happy 21 year couples anniversary! Dear Carolyn. <3

"Murdoch Mysteries" locations sound very interesting! I hope you soon fly to see your family and enjoy your time. Although I mostly prefer books, I think I Want to start watching this series. :)

I couldn't remember the baby's name, so I checked Abigail's newborn name again, but never has not been mentioned.

Twice I was in a small boat, that's all. :) Once in the Caspian lake and other times in a cave. :) I can't say we have much water. A sea in the south of the country and a lake in the north, far from the capital. But I really like the city near the water, to hear or see the lovely blue color.:)

I currently reading chapter 14, finding myself so curious, so I think will finish it tonight.
"I also really like when investigations are historical, ..." I find it very interesting too. In another country and another time. :)
I like Arthur and his wife, too. He has a sharp mind, soon finds out about the dogs. I was suspicious of Mr. Quinn in the first scene. He was full of paradox.
I wonder after what happen to Ettie, how Alice can still be silent. She should now be frightened and tell Murdoch everything she knows.
Now we know Maureen Jennings's writing style. The story is not about Murdoch and what he sees. It's about everyone, It is nice that each person is beautifully described. So there is no wonder that we found "Shipwreck" more about the priest.

'How do you ladies see the story? Why was that ship en route to Nova Scotia? Was the wife a willing companion, wanting a new life,...' I think this is a problem from short stories in a series. Especially when we read the short one before knowing much about the whole series. Most of the time authors write book number 0.5 or 0.4 when at least a third book came out (Like Harry Potter by Rowling). Maybe if we read a few books before, we had been completely aware of Elizabeth and Abigail.
So, we read a short story and find a lot of questions about the plot, characters, and what happens. But, when I read the whole series and after that, start to read a short story, it looks more interesting.
I think the wife hadn't another choice, except to follow her husband and by the chance, she met a kind male passenger. But, we can't say it for sure, can we? :)
I suppose so when here it is Tuesday 3.5 PM (now when I posted), and Carolyn, 6 AM. and probably Kerri at 9 PM. right?

Yes, Carolyn, a translated physical book from a Canadian author! I got so excited when I saw there are translated till the fifth book. The translator mentions Maureen Jennings's books as professional as Poirot and Sherlock Holmes.

I currently reading chapter 2. I liked the quick start, and we start to know William Murdoch soon.
I didn't follow or watch the TV series to know what exactly will happen, but I saw it, and it's very easy to picture William Murdoch and Crabtree as their actors.
'compassion for humanity" is the first thing that we see from William Murdoch, and I'm happy you mention animals too.