C. (Comment, never msg).’s Comments (group member since Jan 30, 2014)

C. (Comment, never msg).’s comments from the Gentle SPECTRUMS group.

Yes, Shirin, your first names are a relief. Kerri, what a place to leave off. That tomb is not where Blue becomes an Indiana Jones heroine. However, what comes out of there.... you ladies tell me how crazy it is! I'd like to know if you deem it superfluous or valuable.

Shirin, please e-mail attachments to Protonmail. Outlook software (the only access to Prairie) forces everything to download before you see messages. However, it is taking a week to open Protonmail. I will try to get that stupid website to open today. Shirin, it would be nice to have those cave photographs in our "Gentle Spectrums" group photo album.

If you ladies are writing a conversation for us to enjoy tomorrow, I guess I will finish "The Ghost Road" and get house-cleaning today. We need space for Christmas decorations, although I am feeling the loss of not having any parents at all.

The Canada Post strike removed my lifelong Christmas card tradition I would work on and I can't receive gifts except by courier. Ron shops for me of course and I look forward to a beautiful celebration with him, Angel, & Petal. I am used to ordering Ron's gifts, so we will have to take a drive this week-end. Angel wants attention, so I will use this time to do energy work on those dear Sisters.

Leeanne & I would like to continue "Anne's House Of Dreams" over Christmas. Our girl has begun university. Leeanne will have time at home December 18 onwards, or that univeristy will be quiet in January. I would like to read a positive, warm book like this with all three of you over Christmas, if you are free. Telling me by e-mail or here is great either way. Leeanne will borrow the book from her home library again.

Ron sweetly asked me to turn out the lamp, when in "The Ghost Road", Sisters found a cubbyhole behind a rare painting scene. They will likely find written details to locate that old cove. Mystery and reading fans know, I am going to turn that next page soon today and conclude the discovery!

Shirin, God bless you too, for wishing my dear Dad a happy birthday with me. I was his present in 1972. Having him alive 4.5 years after my dear Mom, was a cherished gift to me. I told Dad I was grateful he was both parents for a little while. He appreciated that he did a lot of good for us.

Dear Kerri & Shirin,

Roger Malory (Roger is his first name) is interesting and likeable but it occurs to me now, that Maggie could not have used him in the story as integrally as she planned to. He was wastefully in the background, marvels at the Virginia ley line for unstated reasons, and goes home.

I remember the ocean observation. I guess it is about following rough or complicated routes. I don't know if it was to measure and map them, or to build buildings of sacred meaning or energy around them. We do not build things in the ocean except bridges and tunnels close to shore. I suppose this was to encourage Richard that looking for important meaning on his search was not trivial or a wishful fancy.

Tanya was not exhausting. We had fun and good talks. If she made assumptions about me, it angered me. I said the problem was not bring dogs close. The rudeness was yelling "get her" to make them growl. Hoping to scare anyone was horrid, even though it did not work. There was a loyalty and bond I appreciated: knowing each other, our parents, brothers, and childhood animals since we were kids. She would not speak to me, after finally being aware of my reticence. I just begun dating Ron but she did not think I told her quickly enough. I said in voicemail, let me know when we can talk. She followed a new lover out of province. I saw a brother of hers in a bar years later, who might have passed along my well wishes.

I did not object to what was in my face at the strip club! My complaint was that my friend should not be an idiot, so that I could enjoy that rare adventure! I am not interested in going again - committed people shouldn't. It is awkward to see private bits & pieces. I wanted to have whatever fun there was, on an outing I would not likely repeat. Watching sex scenes on TV or film is awkward too. Saying that characters coupled is enough.

My family was always interested in the Moai, Stonehenge, Loch Ness, pyramids.... It is as far away from North American as we can get but Dad would have been amazed to see Easter Island. In his & Mom's last few of years of life, they drove by Niagara Falls. I was shocked Timmy & Andrea did not park and let them sit awhile. It would be worth letting out my parents, paying to park, walking back to them. A photograph of themselves beside Niagara Falls would be something for them to enjoy looking at leisurely. However, they were happy they saw it. You can either sail on it or take photos, that is all.

You must already know my character well, to answer the question yourself: would I give everyone all the information I have pertaining to them. How serious am I about knowing every accurate date and location of photographs and letters? Which kind of stories do I hate and disbelieve the most, besides harming anyone or violence. I am reading such a one now. "The Ghost Road" is obviously going to reveal a birth identity that was lied about, thinking it was acceptable for possibly avoiding a curse. Do you know what? Whether it worked or not, it is not worth growing up without all the information about your parents and heritage

Gee, is the fact that this is a duty, NOT "interference", honestly a question? If you do not tell Jessie Ditterly and Richard Gansey everything you heard about their future or danger, you are playing God and concealing the decisions they need to make decisions for themselves. THAT would be interfering. You need to leave everything that belongs to people with them and what belongs to rumoured or endangered people is information. It is not yours to twiddle in your pocket: leave it with THEM. Emptying your pockets entirely and leaving the choices, reactions, emotions, and knowledge where it belongs is the only way to step aside and not interfere any longer.

If Richard finds out about his rumoured fate from anybody besides Blue, will he thank her for wasting his last year of life without how he might have been prepared or emboldened by that information? He is already uncomfortable about how fate concerns him anyway and even a bad forecast might make him more comfortable. I say it would erase the sense of a shoe falling that he would be relieved to identify. Let him decide if he refutes the myth, or makes a plan even sceptically. Jessie believes in all of those things obviously. He would have found peace knowing the year's deadline, instead of a vague curse weighing on him day in and out. He would have told his family and spent the time that was left with them.

Not handing over everything we know and have heard, means that someone it is not about is analysing the matter without the right mind or feelings. Give the person it pertains to the right, control to feel or find a solution the best way THEY know how. You approach things differently, no matter how empathetically, when it is about you and when it is not your fate. If Blue isn't first to literally let Richard know, he might resent her in the time that is left. Rare is the time we are glad we weren't told something about ourselves. I don't want to hear about other negative stories I can't do anything about. I had better know everything about myself and the loved ones in my care. I say again clearly: it is interfering only if you did NOT put the information where it belonged. It is important to give a person ample time to settle on how they feel about rumours or myths and assimilate the details, so they can ACT. A person might be scared, sad, or angry but that is the only issue with handing details over.

I disbelieve in anyone being alive without God's involvement and approval. We often feel that some animals and people should not be gone and wish we had known how to save or prevent any illness or situation at all. We might sense that someone's "life blueprint" was still ongoing with more time available here, if things had not turned the wrong way. I do not think anyone is alive by mistake. They might be born and survive by miracles of course.

That question is nonsense. No one who is not elderly and ready for the second chapter, should die. Illness, accident, suicide, murder are unfair and wrong for anyone. I would rather see Noah cheer up his parents and siblings. Why is he clinging to strangers, unless he will help with this quest? Unless death myths are true, it is a pleasure quest only; a great project Richard and his companions have worked on.

Richard is a child who needs to learn not to question the breath of life we all have. The timing of my parents meeting was fortunate. After, I had a dangerous birth. Further, there was a dire prediction about danger for me in childhood that my parents worried about. It did not come true because it was wrong, or possibly, my parents' caution served us well. Instead, Mark was in peril four times. He was saved every time; once be me. It made him contemplate God in different ways but he came to a conclusion and put it behind him.

Richard was amazed about surviving wasp stings and hearing a voice at that time. He should grow up, be grateful, and seize his gift fully. I also deem it a stupid notion that when the quest is over, he should not simply revel in the accomplishment! When you reach a goal, reap the fruits and relax, or set another goal. He has many aspects of life like we all do that that will continue after a mystery is solved, which is a positive result! It is not a loss. He has education, family, friends, romance, hobbies, and the money to go after anything he wants - as well as to help others.

I did not find cleanliness jokes funny but easily concur that casual snapshots of friendship and musings and other hilarity is polish on stories that make them shine. In the first few pages, Blue appreciates that she is equal to the older friends. They know each other better but their level field was knowing Ronan less well. I need to remember where I laughed most. Yelling to Calla "I am going out for supper with a hit man" was a good joke. Yes, befriending Dean and his sharp, candid advice were assets to the story.

His evil former boss and Colin Greenmantle's selfish wife were disruptive nuisances that the story is better off without. Her effect was terrible. The novel felt more hopeful at least because negativity had far fewer pages.

We met a crazy person whom the story can do without as well, who leaves bad feelings instead of the awe that they might have contributed. Richard makes that point strongly. I do not feel there was as much wonderment and mysticism as I anticipated in this novel but we were appeased with action. The friends went into the forest once and caves a few times and ley line repairing is compassionate. Nature is strong but deserves our care. We are helpful, no matter how individual from forests and lands. I felt the same disappointment sharply when Richard & Blue had an unpleasant night and were too tired to enjoy the next spelunking trip. They found an interesting door after a straight, brief walk and Richard's reaction was "Is this it? So easily, when I am hardly interested today"? I felt for him and was glad it obviously was not the destination that is for the fourth novel. I like to make little things like planting our gardens and picking them momentous. We should be in top energy form and at the height of our eagerness, when we make a six-year effort come to a close.

I guess the discovery they made, which we can name after you have read it, had one use. Blue learned how to identify her abilities and more about how they worked. Putting her knowledge to use let her successfully, safely be the heroine in exciting, tricky periods of their quest. Yes, we have the pleasure of unloading how we feel about the story without listing details. I will conceal these closing chapters from Shirin. She will finish soon. After, we will shout out our exclamations about how things went and what remains for us to know about.

I am inspired by your reminder that legends or predictions are not guarantees and hopeful. It says there is room to sidestep or prevent negative events: that we do have a say in how everything in our life turns out. I am making a predictable guess that Richard will kiss Blue at a time when he wonders if he might die.

I am happy you enjoy the feedback I write, my friends. My enthusiasm for what you write next is the same, so please write everything you are thinking soon! Love, Carolyn.

Girls, I am glad you are reading what I write. I did not discuss outcomes. Knowing you were behind me, I kept my feedback general. We will keep on discussing Shirin's progress. I look forward her to being our topic leader.

You both see what I mean: there is a lot to remark on in as few as ten pages! I said I would prioritize your contributions to replies, if you have time for one of them. Brevity is fine. Your input is worth giving us the reward of finding something at this thread to read. It was amply inspiring and has me smiling.

Persephone must have poured time into her abilities, the old-fashioned way - hard work and practice and diligence.

You know my friend if I do not use her unique name. Common names are all right in conversation here. Spiritual growth gives the benefit of seeing a larger picture but does not mean the little things in life are not also beneficial and powerful. What laughing does for our health and as a shield to wither away fear, worry, anger, and sorrow is phenomenal.

My diligence and commitment to learning and mastering energy medicine is strong: Donna's way and any food or Qui-Gong way that will help from Chinese medicine. Thumbelina, Spirit, Marigold, and McCartney taught me to listen to them, do what they ask, and take care with my nursing approach. Desperation to save lives does not justify missing our animal's request and comfort.

Carolyn, I am happy to hike through forests, waterfall areas, the seaside.

I hope to have a good visit of Australia followed by New Zealand and that you accompany me on most activities and wonders. If we go to the beach, get in the water too! I can't missing anything, so if there is anywhere you are uncomfortable going, I'll borrow a parent or Aunt. Besides meeting you & your family, high on my list is Tāne Mahuta tree. I did not know trees could be 2,500 years-old and wonder if only a few special species reach it. I will remember his or her name because it reminds me of "Hakuna Matata".

I only clued into Orla's valuable traits after you had me considering it. I did not find her annoying but wanted her scenes to be short. Even though Orla's modernity keeps the present day setting clear and her social assessments are a relief of levity, she is an interruption to the friendship, romance, and mystery that are our priority. I also want villains out of the way rapidly. Orla is fine in small doses and I prefer her to Calla.

A friend from childhood pointed out whatever leapt to mind and it was tiresome. I backed away over years and she was offended permanently, when she was aware of it. I wish she had let me explain. Stopping quips about how pious or naive she thought I was, would have preserved our friendship. Many have misread who I am and as you know, that cannot endure. If people with whom you spent a lot of time, stick with the wrong image of you; get away and stop wasting your time. Correcting them is of little use. Their instinct was to gauge the clearest elements of your character incorrectly. You want family and friends in your major circle, who know you.

Her parents had a family of Shih-Tzus they adored. I have understood the love of family animals since I was a baby. I always petted them. I hated her thrusting them at me, saying "get her" pretending to bite. I knew they were harmless. What angered me is that when I backed away from the interruption to our affection, she found it funny. It was shitty to keep doing something she thought scared someone. Let me enjoy your dogs!

Tanya lived in Manitoba until our 20s. For fun probably after a break-up, we went to a strip club. I had had one or two boyfriends for a couple of years apiece. I like a bit of alcohol but am against being drunk. I was sociable but careful and smart never to get into cigarettes, crime, or drugs. I was one year younger. I had spiritual faith, so she regarded me as a nun; the sort who is upset by swear words or sex scenes. There I was, willingly at a strip show. Could she let me enjoy it? She was a loudmouth who yelled "This is her first strip club"! So I was put on a stool on the dancefloor while the guy unveiled all his assets directly to me.

How titillating was THAT for the two of you to read? I know you are pissing yourselves laughing and that makes me happy. If you are chortling to the point of showing people what I wrote, hey, it is a good story. Let's make more people laugh!

This is a friend who wants to have fun and we need that. She just had to tone down. I can take a joke. It is funny if you are not on edge every time, with dogs or some damn thing in public.

You guys know how much I care about celebrating my birthday and people and cats who love me enough to share it, right? I could do without calling out my birthday in a restaurant. I guess it is the slight embarrassment, which is uncommon for me, of everyone's attention startled to a group of clapping employees singing. They don't know me. It isn't the same overwhelming moment of family & friends singing for me out of love. Tanya would be the one to announce a birthday, genuinely for affection and a memorable party. I guess I did not know how to put "tone down" into words, even when we were in our 20s. I needed her to pay attention to being over the top; not assume I was shocked.

Yes, Blue pondered "obsession" in more than this novel. Orla commented on it. I have tried to diversify mine & Ron's friends, prior to breaking free of the pair we most frequently saw. You need different personalities and availabilities for support and fun. Having you & Shirin is lifesaving. I need family & friends to phone and visit in person too. Careers, home comforts, obligations, and us being an hour away by highway reduced our number. The Cousins who are fairly nearby have kids and after work activities. I am sure they are open to us integrating each other into some visits week-ends or special occasions. Without my parents, bypassing a difficult brother; I have to build a new branch of ties with my blood family. I have begun by mailing cards to Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins who had not received them before. Days after mailing them, Canada Post's strike held them hostage.

I found Blue's phrasing odd. She has solid new friendships, working on a major project and having fun. That is what I need. It is not "in love". You value having a group of people you can reach anytime and count on for fun and support.

The only aspect that needs resolving is Richard & Blue's hesitancy of dating. She wants to avoid kissing but they don't want Adam or Ronan left-out, or making jokes. Respecting Adam is minor because it was recent, not impassioned and watching Ronan's feelings. For example, you two would not be able to write as much if you had spouses or children. I would be happy for you but hope the friendship I value could continue. :)

I can't wait for your reactions. Shirin does not want us to hold back on releasing and discussing our emotional reactions, so let's have it! This is a good place to practice talking about something that I will understand, without naming it with specificity. Do that for reviews and you will not hide them again.

---> Continued from message #23. <----

I finished the novel! I was going to leave a little for the next day, out of respect for Ron's sleep for work. He drives an hour to provide for us. He returned to sleeping deeply and I took in the last chapters fast.

I will tell you my impressions: I loved it and was surprised and rewarded in many places. Having Blue's name as the title made sense when she suddenly took charge of a big role, solo! Besides that action-packed part which might have been out of "Indiana Jones", this is a story of all their families, personal education, and their collaborative quest.

It ends with a bang, that makes me wonder if we can hold off until January to read what is next. I want to pause a little, to not be done with our wonderful series instantly and it is my way to enjoy a selection of other authors and genres in between all of them. I am glad to report it is not a depriving cliffhanger. Storylines are resolved nicely but the novel ends there, without information about any of it or a portrayal of winding down from it. It is the way Anne Perry ends novels. Similarly, I wish Maggie had extended and discussed the action we race through.

My observation is: the first novel introduced friends and families, the exciting mystical setting, and they worked on the mystery. The second novel analyzed information, gave character background and development, and researched their next step. This third novel continued research, preparation, and personal development but went directly back to investigating the mystery actively. Interesting events ended dynamically.

"The Raven King" is going to have to be about providing answers about everything. It will entail using what the friends know to find the rest of the clues and finish the mystery. They will discuss the events and appreciate them; reactions and meanings I am eager to read. The fourth, next novel is the one that will tell us what we want to know about everything.

The adventure and atmosphere were not what I imagined. Some arrivals, departures, and characters were unexpected. I disliked some of them. However, this story was action-packed, enthralling, easily better than the previous one, and definitely earned five stars from me.

I will reply to what you contribute and ponder, without spoiling anything at all. I am happy to read from you and write to you, on the birthday of my dear Dad! Love, Carolyn.

Dear Kerri & Shirin,

I wrote that this day is my Dad's birthday, hoping there would be a word in e-mail or here. This means a lot to me, to share it with someone, so soon after he is gone. Happy birthday to you, my wonderful, loyal Dad! We always love you!

I thought Shirin probably went caving in a land I picture as being filled with mountains and shores. New Zealand's island geography has to have cliffs and we have SEEN the mountains and caves in "The Lord Of The Rings" films of the early 2000s. They were real, right, not built movie sets?

While all mountains, cliffs, islands, and caves are old; Shirin's country and its artefacts are ancient. Girl, all you have to do is show photographs of Iran and that is a worthy enough post for the day, to me! I forgot about associating your profession with geology. Yes, of course; no wonder you would love seeing caves too and likely more often and numerous than me! Please put the other two in our group photo album, with location details. They did not come out in our conversation folder. I love the one we see. How wonderful, that you floated through that beautiful world on a boat. I had the same experience in England.

Underground and anyplace people usually don't go; secret, ancient places invigorate me. I bought Ron a book about underground civilizations and must read it. I would comfortably but carefully walk through Paris catacombs and other subterranean sites that have been maintained to appreciate.

Kerri darling, where you live and what you have at your doorstep; I am beginning to have that rare feeling of being frustrated someone does not go after the benefits of your home. Caves, the ocean.... stroll, swim, explore, meditate! What wonders are around you both.

I think you did have a spiritual communion with trees. You spoke of that sacred place whose name I need to remember better, where everyone feels positive and calm peace.

Yes, humour is important. It is one of the advantages I value of present day stories. We sit comfortably in our own language, expressions, and we get the humour because it is ours too. Old settings are funny too but it is fresh and a relief to me really, to see our own society's personalities and mannerisms play out in a story. Anything that tells me it is our era is a relatable joy for being presently familiar. The boys fist-bump in greeting at school. When Adam didn't want to talk, Ronan sat beside him in solidarity and replied "What the fuck would I talk about"? What petty readers don't understand is swears are casual language nowadays. They are expressive and colour-in emotions. They are not anger or outbursts. For the casualness of swearing with humour and without insult, I thank Eddie Murphy when I saw "Beverly Hills Cop" in the theatre in 1984. I was a little girl and my friend's Dad warned us not to follow the language, ha ha. Eddie made it fun without any sting.

Joe Ditterly being unintentionally loud is endearing, honestly. It took a fellow Virginian like Blue (now that we know clearly where they are) to not be scared off by Joe's volume and see his moral character. Most funny, here is a man like them who also has familiarity with the paranormal as a common thing to deal with. He has intelligent perception too, of people and what they are wondering and feeling. I love Joe Ditterly.

You have me pausing to decide what I think of Orla. It is gratifying for someone else, a genial person like you, to be annoyed! Keeping her cameos small, I like Orla. We know what to expect from her and it is going to be smart and critical but not hurtful or negative. Her enjoyment of nail polish and looking gorgeous plant us in our modern decade comfortably (2014 is new among my reading material). Her prissiness takes the big deal out of the dark realms the friends and Sargent family handle. Orla will probably band together with them loyally in the last novel, certainly if she is asked to but outside of need; it impresses me that she does not take her psychic environment overly seriously. She might give a sincerely emotional family reading by phone, shake it off, and go out with a friend after her shift is over. She is a modern girl who is in a mystical family but is not all bangles, dramatic earrings, and Indian print dresses. Do you know what I mean? Orla has depth and belongs with her "save the world" family but does not let it get heavy. She also participates and belongs in our North American generation.

I have reminded my beloved angel-reader friend that she is human and to enjoy Earth. She spends a lot of her day accepting channelled messages from guides and that is valuable. But take a break and use what you learned, in our present day. Live, then pose questions once in a while if you want to. Don't only shake your head at society's troubles and walk around in a meditative state. She likely does not but I feel her interest moving away from fiction novels, movies, music, and games like she used to enjoy. It is as if she only focuses on big things and forgets the pleasure and purpose of entertaining pastimes. I like Orla more than Calla, even though she too is loyal and is providing parenting to Blue in her Mom's stead. Orla perhaps gives opinions where they aren't wanted but she is honest in her frankness and aims to be helpful. I groaned when she accompanied the friends on the boat but she ended up being funny and formidable like Blue; taking off exterior clothing and diving into the lake.

That is a fine point, about letting romantic interests get to know each other. You know what? I did not remember if Richard was told about Blue's myth and you two thought he did not. He does. Did you forget like I did, that he was foreshadowed to die regardless?

Richard didn't say it outright but he answered our question concretely when he pondered on a passionate evening: "Do you think it works differently if I kiss you"? That is funny, two Bluejays are fighting on gravel along the wall across from my window. I laid finished insects there, when cleaning the workshop. The gravel and flowerbeds around both our structures are oases beside a land recently covered in snow.

Yes, Blue knowing financial limits is familiar to most of us, who fit the portrait of middle incomes: comfortable, safe, provided for but careful. You are right that her friends would not hesitate to help her. Be as self-sufficient as you can and benefit from a boost for the rest. They don't need the money back. She need not struggle to remove debt of any kind. All that matters is they never make a remark like "remember the time we paid for university". They would not because there would be no weight to withdrawing $20,000 or so. Blue is probably family to them and might marry Richard. I disagree that they are obsessed with each other. "In love" is an odd way of putting the family and caring feelings they have built. I think the right word for their bond is loyalty and enjoying getting to know their different personalities, worries, and strengths.

I am happy to say which none of us will mind, that it does suddenly, clearly dawn on Adam that offering money is not pity. In a lovely moment you will be glad to read too, he gets that what Richard and Ronan are giving him is loyalty, the unshakeable kind of friendship. When Blue contributes $5.00 to the national park, he accepts it and is glad he is getting used to appreciating the lighter load of sharing resources with people who have goodwill for him.

It is nice to confirm that Persephone seems human and not invincible. Certainly advanced, intuitive, and experienced. I hope we learn more about her. Yes, work must have gone into her development, not only a natural gift.

I looked up misophonia on Wikipedia, which is why I said I saw about six names. I saw no interview. I am glad Melanie mentioned it. You already know I don't have the textbook annoyances, like eating sounds. Never whistle using teeth instead of lips properly!!!! I screamed in shock in a mall when someone did that and startled them into stopping. Don't cough or throat clear lightly, especially with phlegm. Don't say the few words I hate, that is all. Hard, useful coughing is fin. Unfortunately, I might the the weird person who can't bear the whistle or "have got" sounds in written words either. Hearing them is not the only issue. It is too bad some people have trouble with meal sounds, which we need to do daily.

Our cats are okay with lapping up CBD oil and Essiac powder (which Angel & Petal might not have tried). I made Petal wary by squirting it onto her food while she was eating. I should have done it first. It is expensive, so I see that they like their food selection first. The first few times, I ought to lay a little soft food on top. After, they are fine with CBD oil. I won't squirt it into them because it would be daily. Spirit, McCartney, and Marigold taught me that pushing food or liquid must only occur when they seriously need it. We know their favourite food and eat every day, seldom with any hesitation, so this is the time to let them reach oils, powders, or herb supplements in their meals naturally.

Richard did extensive research, for six years I think he said. With caution about not bringing attention to his quest, he definitely sought information and collaborated; as far as spending a year with Roger in England and Wales. He must have asked people about the first mountain, where they met Cabeswater. However, the pit, which you were right about being more than a detour, got them looking for a connected cave that was past it. Looking for a secondary mountain or cave was so new, Blue suggested asking residents before they searched for it.

The novel is clear that Artemis disappeared. It is a main plot of the novel that Maura felt the urge to search for him, even though he is not missed as a lover. She was right that he was stuck in something he needed assistance getting out of. You also meet a bonkers character. Maggie does not explain how people stuck for years go to the washroom, sleep, change, or eat but perhaps she didn't want to stall her creative momentum on those details. That is my problem with writing. Do I need to answer mechanics, or make up fun adventures and think the reader won't care; they will accept fiction as not needing logic everywhere.

It is appropriate to say we get no answers about Artemis or Richard. There was a lot of action about Maura. Bad people interrupted this story much less but I disliked any such intrusion obviously. Noah is in the background where he belongs. I agree that the one you save is not be a long deceased body. He should comfort his parents or go. These were not his pals in his living school days. You might be right that he has a purpose in their development. Seeing a spirit and being that comfortable with such a wonder is useful.

I am glad you love reading and considering my thoughts, Kerri & Shirin. I look forward to yours daily, even if it is answering posts, like Shirin does for now.

I am glad you are having fun, peaceful summer beach days with Izzy and your family. It is odd that we are opposite, not solely seasons a little bit out of synch. Your season is beginning while our winter is. The first major snowfall is today. Tomorrow, the first cold temperatures. The falling snow is magical and peaceful.

Different editions of books go without saying. Page number is about the same, unless it is hardcover or large print, to softcover. Giving our chapter locations covers it.

I have seen all I need to of Calla, a bitch, which I am sure no one disagrees with. There is a way to be strong, decisive, being likeable with manners. You should feel a warmth, even if they aren't the type to hug or sweet talk.

I look forward to knowing if Persephone is supposed to be mystical or merely a woman who mastered her psychic ability professionally. There is a natural gift in everyone. However, we need to practice and use what we aim to do.

Our girls will be healthier and cured of problems by eating real food, with energy balancing techniques used regularly. I do meridian clearing on them nearly daily, cleansing chakras, toothpaste gel, tissue salt tablets, CBD oil. I cooked the basmati rice and vegetables with kelp. We are doing what we learned!

Maura is about my age. I disregard what is unknown. I go along with stories and focus on what I know. The rest will be revealed. I do not analyze "hidden meanings". I read a story as written. If someone has something to say, say it. I am not a fan of vagueness.

Kerri, in what way were the friends communicating with time? They were conscious of its circular flexibility in the Cabeswater realm and planned not to get lost or disoriented by it. Thank you for explaining that not losing track of time was their concern in their spelunking (once again, the verb for "cave exploring", in case either of you did not know it). Have either of you visited caves or crevasses? I love it! I have in a few countries: Ontario, South Dakota, México, St. Lucia, and England.

Kerri, if you dislike authors recapping previous novels; do not read Susan Wittig Albert. See my reviews of hers. I was in love with her series for the first four novels I think, got annoyed with the next, then wanted to scream. She tried to market her Beatrix Potter working with animals series as "readable in any order" but did not craft them that way. All she did was recap the shit out of every past novel, which snowballed into gigantic detail dumps that were larger with every succeeding volume.

We praise Maggie for expecting fans to read in order. She only reminds us of the characters' statuses and goals, with compelling opening action. You have to be careful with book cover synopsis. It was obvious in Elizabeth George's series, that one of the best characters dies a few novels from now, which I am sad about. Another stupid reader spoiled that awhile afterwards, the chief gets his sergeant pregnant! I report spoilers like that.

I hope you got my meaning, Kerri, that no matter how brief you plan spelunking to be, you always bring abundant supplies. "Expecting a brief hike" is not an excuse any wise person uses, anywhere, ever. We are in the season where cars had better have emergency kits, which they should all year. We expect to drive easily to our destinations and home again. I used to unwisely only wear outer clothing that was comfortable for getting in and out of a car. Every Canadian is taught that you wear or bring, like I do now, clothing TO LAST IN COMFORTABLE OUTSIDE, if you needed to leave a vehicle or sit in a cold one. You can't keep the engine going for risk of exhaust poisoning, or running out of fuel. A kit needs a blanket, road flare, candle, metal tin, water, preserved food, and chocolate bar type boosts.

I am thankful to our good God that I have never had to use this kit. I am not driving or riding without it, though. Similarly, every mystery novel we have read with a secret tunnel contains unexpectedly eventful or long exploring circumstances. Do not go into the most interesting secret passage, without supplies like batteries, flashlights, candles, tins, food.

Thank you for your care and sensitivity about sharing what I have about our beloved Conan, other cats, and my dearest parents. I can relate to a lot of book characters after this life change.

I understand it is normal to resent or to put it in a lighter way, wish things went for us the way others do. I write beautiful reviews and put care into revising them until they are professional and full of heart. You know this. My profile is not anywhere on that insulting "best reviewer" calculator. I suppose it comes from 'like button' clicks, which is a given if people have 5000 contacts. They should take it down because they are not reading reviews and judging them on writing, non-spoiler, not recapping the synopsis quality! I have seen people receive more comments in a week than I do in years. Some of these people have the same contacts I do and fewer of them. Other people get comments galore and I am angry.

When it comes to people having more money, I am glad for them. I am okay with appreciating the goodness and abundance that comes my way. I recognize that I do not want to spend too many hours working outside the home, or for someone else. Many who earn large incomes hardly have time to themselves. You can't pay me to do sell my personal life. I am merely disgusted if people do not appreciate their abundance. I wanted a piano and piano lessons since I was a little girl. I did not like anyone having a piano they didn't use or lessons they complained about. I don't care about lessons now and have no room for a piano. However, if we made room, it would be lovely to play by ear and simple notes, like I have always done it.

The motor club was an easy job once you knew how and so is learning geography. The part I found hard which I disliked, was selling travel insurance. I loved handing out maps and brochures and helping people plan travel routes. Selling and renewing memberships was fine. I am grateful I excelled at geography. I did not in high school; that teacher was nuts. My parents and others complained about him. We had fun venting our frustration because his last name was "Veldink"!

Right, what you meant about caution in Cabeswater was not making unintended requests through telepathy. It was only Blue who put effort into avoiding that. Everyone but Blue and Richard had otherworldly comfort levels with the forest. Richard has a confident and sure attitude generally. Blue enjoyed that expressing wishes worked. She was not paranoid.

I don't think everyone wants different things. They will want Richard to continue living. This is what I love about original input! I am impressed with your hypothesis that Richard might approach medical death only temporarily. That is a positive idea to mull over.

Blue might want to rescue her Mom. As of my reading, she has not sentimental emotions about her biological Father, which surprised me. I am very reverent about heritage and if I were adopted, I'd want to meet my birth parents as soon as I could write or call. I cried when Spirit's biological Mom and Sisters went to Heaven, someone else's kitties. I was sad that I had hoped to bring him to visit them in Winnipeg and did not. Spirit, McCartney, and Marigold were highly sociable. Lovey & Angel are wary. Conan & Petal love people too. I know Conan is all right all this time and seeks help carefully, whenever he needs it.

Adam struggling to pay for rent, school, food, and car maintenance is an angle I don't want Maggie to rehash anymore. I merely wish Ronan and Richard would have a logical talk and say: "We know you want the accomplishment of supporting yourself. You have. We have more ready cash than we need and can make life easier for you. Take it and reduce your stress. Work one job and make it one you love, or that is convenient to do and finish".

About feeling that the Raven Boys' series is not "YA", it is not that they are mature teenagers. I say the novel is written like an adult novel. It keeps the fictional adventure solid and serious with humour and could have featured questers of any age. I deem it an adult novel, which happens to have youth protagonists. The others are certainly 40+ age adults.

I understand a building having water in one place, before refurbishing. They could bottle the water for cooking and drinking, in clean dishes. They could set-up a sanitary counter at a station they designate a kitchen, until renovating is finished.

I don't picture Blue's house, which I don't know is owned by Maura Sargent or jointly. How many rooms are there? Jimi & Orla are there a lot, or do live there. The average medium income home such as Blue's and mine, does not casually have bedrooms for Maura, Blue, Persephone, Calla, and the attic where Neeve was a guest. A sixth or seventh room is a generously large home. Adam slept on a couch after his psychic ability tired him.

I am happy that Blue does consider that all forests are sentient and speaking with us. We simply need to listen more carefully, with more concentration than Cabeswater; just as we wrote!

I think I answered Kerri's whole post and look forward to Shirin's own observations. Post first, reply after so that we benefit from input that is all yours. :) I have written enough today, using Word this time to properly write between Kerri's paragraphs. Being far ahead of our group, I don't imagine you minding me pausing new impressions. After a little TV, I will go to bed soon and jump back in! I left off on page 243.

I stopped where Kerri did, at page 100. I looked at the next chapter's subject for an idea of the next night's reading. I was swept away by a few chapters. I might well finish tonight or tomorrow. There are two more excellent novels that will be sublime for my birthday month pampering of myself. I will keep talking with the two of you just as eagerly, if I begin reading fresh paranormal mysteries. I can see you both being interested in them as well! :) Good-night, from Carolyn.

Miscellaneous topics that are not novel related.

I wonder if you should type first and answer after. If limited, I would rather see what you guys are thinking and feeling. It is fun knowing you could come back to add replies.

I didn't write my chapter at the beginning, to show you were free to read it. I was not revealing story specific details but sharing impressions generally, mainly derived from these awesome early scenes.

I will go on to sharing my reading diary after I have late breakfast. :) Then, I will answer Kerri, with the great pleasure that my friends' writing always brings. There has been a small amount of snow on the ground and surprisingly, still only -6 C temperatures for Manitoba in late November. Today is only -8 C and I have let out more ladybugs and little moths, into the space under our back door. I hope it is warm enough to burrow into gravel or hibernate in a hole. I drop them near a wall hole.

For the first time, there are major snowflakes falling puffily and slowly. :) It looks nice here and the winter magic feeling has arrived. If it is going to be colder in double digits by day and notably by night from hereon in, we might as well have snow cover. This is a time of year I wish you tropical girls could see and enjoy with me. With the light low as early as 5:00 PM for awhile, two hours hence, it is easy to lie down to reading. Hugs to my understanding, patient friends, Carolyn.

Carolyn's second impressions.

Like you both did, I read a little on November 24, scooched up to page 62 on November 25, and zoomed to page 100 last night. I went to the washroom. Ron was sleeping nicely, resting for work. I peeked at the next section to know what I would open the book upon next. I hit page 180 before going to sleep with Ron. It is chapter 19.

I intended to describe my bubbling excitement as soon as I had read those exciting opening pages but we did recaps and asked questions. It is my pleasure to continue. Nothing I am going to write will spoil anything; my fine, intelligent friends.

Thank you for appreciating how much I find solace in friends and reading after hard years; recently getting used to my last parent leaving Earth. It is a strange world without the people who love you more than anyone else does. Thank you too, for BEING the loving, loyal, comforting friends who hear me out, give me advice, and share a space for me to have fun with you! November 29th will be my dear Dad's birthday. He would be 81 years-old, so he was halfway on August 15th.

When we open this novel together late this year, I relate to Ronan, Noah, Blue, and Adam missing our parents for different reasons. Adam might not be able to have a relationship with his Father. Blue hopes her Father is alive to meet and misses her Mom. Noah's body left Earth. He does not visit his folks, unless it is off camera and readers aren't told about it. Ronan misses his Dad but thankfully has awoken his Mom. Only Ronan, Noah, and I are away from one or two parents permanently. I am happy reuniting is a possibility open for the rest of them. Like all of them, having friends stops me from feeling alone more than the little bit that I do once in awhile, like around my birthday.

Do either of you relate to these characters in various ways? It is sweet that horse stories have built an idea of Virginia for Kerri.

I know North American geography better than most because of the travel job I used to have. Canada is only spaced out into 10 provinces and 3 territories (North West Territories, Yukon Territory, Nunavut); however most people outside of here can hardly name a few of them.

The United States has 50 states and a few other territories or districts. Many people have heard of famous regions like California, Florida, and New York. Few can name all 50 of them. To pass three levels for my job, I had to identify all Canadian provinces and American states on a blank map: by name and the shape of their location. So I am a good one to consult about North American places. :)

How many provinces do Iran and New Zealand have? Perhaps I will learn those too. I just learned that similar to Canadians Arctic are in the north, the middle of Australia is desertous and scarcely inhabited. Almost everyone lives at the coasts all the way around the country, which is also a contient. I keep forgetting the name of New Zealand's content. I wish Gmail would easily transfer those wonderful letters Kerri wrote to me about several things.

I admit hating the term "tension" regarding stories. We hate it in real life and I don't credit it for being a positive element. I think "suspense" or "worry" is what is meant, which is how Kerri elaborated on it. Anyway, I disagreed that they were worried about the forest. They were very confident they have visited, learned from it, communicated with it and it worked. They were understandably nervous about the hole in the cave and what they might find concerning Blue's Mom or Dad.

Yes, my guess is that the third sleeper is the Raven King. It was beautiful that ravens flew out of the hole and miraculous that they were there. You expect bats, sweet creatures I don't mind meeting either. Bat fly around our yard lamps in the summer, chasing insects. I think Artemis is one sleeper and Neeve another? Do you have others? The mission is to waken the Raven King, so do you think it is he that there is a warning to leave sleeping?

Persephone is very interesting and a positive figure, whose age we don't know. She remarked on suddenly noticing that Adam was young and new; perhaps in reference to past lives. It is said that the more you have lived past lives, the more in tune and aware you become. Most of us remember no past lives. I have had deja-vu a few times but do not remember being anywhere else. Those of us who are comfortable with mystical things, interested in them and open to learning about them, also those of us with *a little bit of* sensitivity to the world around us; are said to be less new on Earth.

However talented or old, current or past life wise; Persephone is human and I don't view her as perfect or infallable. I will enjoy it if Maggie avoids a one dimensional cardboard cutout, by not making Persephone right about everything.

I think book four is going to be a difficult, emotional story of choosing what wish to grant, if it is okay to awaken Glendower (a-ha, I remembered his name). Does the group only get one request, perhaps the person who directly awoke him? It is no surprise that Richard wants Noah to be alive but Blue might ask to save Richard's life.

We have focused on hoping Blue kissing a lover will not have a negative myth in reality. I don't know about you but I forgot that Richard is said to die anyway. He was among the names her family wrote on list, at their vigil to see who would pass away that year. I forgot Richard was on that sad list and that the time was short. He & Blue are my favourites hands down, so that makes me sad.

I believe in letting people know what information there is, so they can make decisions about things that pertain to them. Maybe there are things he wants to be sure he does before he goes: kissing Blue could be one of them. Blue told Dean that her family tells clients if they appear on that list, so they can prepare themselves and their families. I do not recall knowing that detail in the first book, that they tell whomever they can.

I liked Adam a lot, except that he needlessly considers it an insult to accept the relief of a boost of money his friends have an amply supply of. Richard's parents wanted to give him money, pay his school, home, and a much better car. I have no trouble appreciating whatever help comes my way. You have $1000.00 you don't need, which would pay for something in my humble, simple life? Thank you, sincerely!

Ronan doesn't make himself likeable. I root for him and recall Richard saying he was sweet before their Dad's shocking death. I don't picture that swearing fighter as adorable as Matthew is but I picture him halfway between Matthew and Declan. Those short stories, one of which I read before trying these books by the way, were misleading. Declan was the protagonist in one of the Christmas adventures. I am glad he does not figure in the stories because I like him less than Ronan, except in that short story.

I have compassion for Noah but have scant interest in him. He should not be hanging around when his soul is free to go to the afterlife. Either comfort your family for awhile, or get going. I would not use a wish on someone already gone, whom his friends did not know alive. They accept he is a spirit, with a limit to interacting. It makes sense for his parents to get him back, if they could or reverse the death entirely, in a time change. Ronan might wish for his Dad back, or for magical relatives to be free to live on Earth all the way.

You are going to meet an old farmer type, where Blue's talent for knowing her people comes in handy. She is unafraid when he has a shouting voice, because there is no relationship to take personally and she judges right away, that his size makes volume normal for that man. I have not laughed much yet, only admired the way Maggie worded a few thoughts but I laugh at his dialogue.

Blue feels integrated into her friendship circle, not because she made big strides but because Ronan changed so much, they all equally need to relearn him. That was observed uniquely. I like how Blue marvelled at Richard buying used gear; then understanding that HE had used it and had experiences before he met them. He is only a little older than Blue is. If she turned 18, he must be 20.

Their ages are the only thing that follows the 'YA' categorization. I feel this book is very adult, because they are all mature and the quest is well written, to be serious and complex. Do you feel the adult atmosphere too? When it is called 'YA' or 'fantasy', I feel annoyed. That sounds like millions of other books. We must not downplay how rare and original this 'paranormal mystery' is.

I finally laughed when Maggie put this farmer's dialogue not only in all caps letters but also in a font bigger than the rest of her text! He seems like a giant yelling, when he is quite polite and decent.

Where I left off, the friends are seeking another way into the Cabeswater cave, from another part of the countryside that will be on the other side of the hole.

Yes, it was a moment of awe for me that the group asked the forest: "Who are we to you"? I wonder what the answer is. They are viewed as friends of Ronan. I think they are also welcomed as good and respectful people, whom the forest knows has questions and a quest there. They want nothing except safely travelling and answers and guidance of their goals.

I wondered what Richard was afraid of; maybe only remembering the threat of hornets. Was it nearly falling that made him think of the past danger, or did something remind him of hornets? I am glad I was unharmed when I was stung by hornets or wasps several times, a few years ago. It was unpleasant and I avoid them weaving nests near our house and library in the spring. I finally thought it was worth asking them mentally, to stay away. They did! Insects are old life forms, among all animals for whom language itself is telepathy.

This leads to one way I relate to Blue. She thinks she has no spiritual abilities except to boost other people or nature. I do understand I have sensitivity that I am working on strengthening and tuning. We all in our present day, have dormant psychic muscles we can put back to good use. That is the only difference.

Blue & I both know how it feels to have friends or family with otherworldly experiences or skills. We have both been taught how to do some protective or healing things, we have tried it, and it worked! That is one of my favourite parts in this mystery. Blue tried something her Mom taught her, so Noah doesn't get carried away, or leave her feeling cold. I also enjoy how Blue & Richard look forward to hearing each others' voices at night, even though they don't say much.

Yes, Shirin, I love how the friends stick together; including Ronan not hesitating to hold onto Blue when Richard slipped. We all love this story better than the others and as well as we hoped, don't we! :-) This is a wonderful, rewarding feeling. Some bad guys are in it but as I differentiated for Kerri; it is not taking up page space from the glorious feeling of friends, family, and their adventure.

Here is a fun question: do you think the pit is a place they need to find, for clues or the route to their mission? Do you think the subterranean lake that Maura discovered is there? Or is the pit only something to move around, with the goal past it?

Having Roger in town is supposed to be helpful. I winced when the boys brought him to their warehouse home. The man could have had a hotel, or stayed at the Lynch's ranch. He would have little time to peer into barns and that family's secrets aren't obvious.

Richard and Ronan could certainly afford to get a kitchen built, or use the manufacturing plant as an office lab. Buy a decent residence to share elsewhere.

Do Jimi and her Daughter, Orla live at Maura Sargent's house, or only work there on the psychic phones?

Carolyn's first impressions.

My first reading introduction went to 29 pages. I knew we would all love that we quickly get back to the point of the series and are acquainted with what our character friends are doing next. I agree that it was immediately engrossing to flash through short scenes of Persephone teaching Adam, Blue very understandably missing her Mom, Calla & Blue working to find her, and Richard and Ronan ready to work on their quest.

It is wonderful that readers confirm Maura Sargent is all right. I don't think she is detained, lost, or trapped. I think hiking for the whereabouts of Artemis is taking longer than she thought and she sees merit in proceeding while she is in the right place. I would like to confirm she brought spelunking supplies ("cave exploring", one of my favourite subjects): good clothes, food, and tools.

Yes, it is wonderful that this single woman and Mother of 18 years is confident, cautious, and unafraid. Her impressions of a subterranean lake, surreally mirroring the stalactites above, were glorious and riveting. I learned how to choose between the terms "stalactities" and "stalagmites" if anyone needs the neumonic reminder. The logic is: those above are "tite" against the ceiling. Lose below "mite" reach the celing someday if they grow tall on the floor.

It is hard for Blue's family and friends to not know where she or shen she will be back. Only readers are relieved. Thank goodness for a family's capability to perceive and have faith that Maura is alive and well. I wish Conan had returned after a few weeks of pushing this faith and awareness past fear. Certainty that our loved-one is alive and well and also returning to us, is hard to hold tight to after 7 years. Every time a loved-one like my Dad enters Heaven, I know he helps encourage, send, guide, and protect Conan home: along with all of our prayers and our other helpers.

I think our first scenes of Richard and Ronan are gathered at the enchanted old forest with the rest of the Lynches. Maggie excelled at "showing" where everyone is and reminding in or clarifying what we need to know. There is no deluge of information, even though it interests us. The best way to reorient ourselves an be informed is to jump back into the delightful, beautiful atmosphere of our action!

We are reminded that Mrs. Lynch has to stay at Cabeswater if she wants to be awake, because her dream retriever died. I left off in the novel at chapter 19. Ronan reveals to Adam his hope that there is a way to bring an element of Cabeswater home, to awaken the multicoloured, sweet little cattle. If he learns how, his loved-ones can live at home whether their dream retriever is alive or not and can move anywhere, with good, full lives.

I know we are following Maggie's invention of how nature and spirits work. I only disagree with this one forest being recognized as sentient beings. All forests are sentient fellows who communicate with us. All we need to do is learn to listen to and understand them. I write it again because I consider it an important message about our world. All animals and plants are equally sentient to us. Only our language, biological needs and roles, and perspectives of spirituality differ. One plant or animal being more intelligent or capable than another is a fallacy that comes from measuring sentience biologically, by brain size or visibly demonstrable responding.

I am willing to believe in sacred places, where communicating with animals, plants, or spirits is more obvious and easy to an average person. That is a well pondered subject of "active paranormal locations", like spirits. I don't think I have experienced it strongly at any of the "haunted places" or sacred nature spots I have visited.

Like Adam, many of us are developing our peceptive awareness of other ways to communicate with the life around us. I feel a little awareness everywhere; no huge experiences yet. My only obvious moments are good ones: sacred communications with family who recently left bodies.

Kerri wondered if the friends were nervous about building trust with this forest. It was clear to me that they were sure: taking nothing and visiting often just to enjoy and acquaint it, keep the forest comfortable with them. They had its permission to visit whenever they wished, even without Ronan's presence. I agree it was a lovely, wise consideration of nature as their host. I said my favourite quote gave me good feelings early, on pages 14 - 15, a description of their relaxing environtment.

“Blue lay her cheek against a boulder covered with warm moss. She thought about birds singing. It was a thought turned on its side, a door in her mind. She was getting better at telling when she was doing it right. She longed of leaves rustling. Overhead, leaves formed whispered words: Avide audimus.

She thought of a spring flower. A lily - blue, like her name. A blue petal fell into her hair. Another dropped onto the back of her hand, slipping down her wrist like a kiss. Richard's eyes opened. Petals landed lightly on his cheeks. As his lips parted, wondering, a petal landed directly on his mouth. Adam craned to watch the floral, fragrant rain drift down around them, slow-motion butterflies of blue. Blue's heart exploded with joy: It's real! It's real!”

Recap responses.

Hi Shirin and Kerri! We knew last year you liked the challenge of Joe and perhaps other violent aspects. My messsage is that here for a change is a series about adventure, wonderment, friendship, self-confidence, nature, psychic talents, and minimal romance: all in a rare, refreshing modern setting. Shirin reads dark content but felt the same. I would have rathered no Joe but what I hope you understand is, the threats and ugliness took up superfluous space.

In this beautiful setting a violent parking lot, abusive parent, murder revelations, and hit men were too much. The sour notes took up more chapters than "a challenge from different sides". Instead of relishing the reading, I wished they were over. Shirin called it sparkle, I called it bliss and these following adjectives. The downers went too long and interrupted the joy and exhilarating pace of a quest that is fun and inspiring. It was only challenging to intellect and patience.

I love characters using their minds, hearts, talents, and ideas. I love communicating with nature. I love seeing a girl make new friends and wealthy boys helping or respecting those shorter on finances. I loved everything about this novel, except the negative things and I felt that the authoress went too far and squashed the magic of her novel. A filler novel taking a break from the exciting quest asked enough patience of readers. There were short scenes of magic at the Lynch home, the Sargent's, Adam's new abilities, and the warmth of the Ganseys. Calla is a bitch and I will freak out if Maggie describes anyone with "a small voice" again. Those chapters provided just enough pleasure and intrigue to give the sequel five stars from me.

We covered what we liked and disliked about volume two. I thought it was interesting to mull over WHY we liked the tone and content less, including Kerri I think. We have had time to ponder how we felt about the story and I recently saw Shirin's review, along with rereading Kerri's. I am happy we all answered questions for one another, as we stride into "Blue Lily, Lily Blue".

Interestingly, at about page 80, the state Virginia is supplied a few times in a row. Maybe the book heard us wanting a refresher. ;) It sounds like Adam and Noah know about the stupid myth about kissing a lover (a romantic couple is not stuck on sex as a definition). Thank you for all your input.

If it helps any of you, I remembered that Ronan gave Dean (the Gray man's first or last name) one of Joe's untraceable vehicles to leave town in. He needed to protect the Henrietta families and avoid Colin Green-whatever, the greedy former boss who had sent Dean's brother to attempt killing him.

We hoped the next volume would be excellent and go back to the fun, Welsh mystery, and positive adventure. We wanted the awe and excitement in the forest and communicating with nature. We know volume three does answer our hopes, hip hip hooray! My first impressions follow.

Shirin, don't worry, I decided to read as much as I want and just enjoy it all! Kerri, don't slow down either. I did not imagine we would. Ha ha, I see even Shirin saying "I have until the week-end for that library book".... Let's go! :-)

Recap conclusions.

Good day, girls! For challenges, I set a guaranteed book number, so that the Goodreads badge doesn't dismay me with a "behind" estimate. I added up short stories and comics like Shirin did. Racing to reach any quantity is not how to enjoy life or reading.

I might want to savour something slowly. The last Elizabeth George mystery happened to be big - 1000 pages! We get busy, or upset about events in life. When I started "The Time Machine" in April, Dad was sick and I went to Winnipeg to take care of him.
I tried energy healing and it helped. Afterwards, he was normal at home 1 1/2 month.

Dad was in the hospital from June to August and his life finished. I visited a few times a week. Then I began grieving and brought belongings home from his apartment. I was not reading at all.

Rising to 82 books was easy by adding short stories and comics. I don't stop at the easy estimate. Now my goal is 90 books. If it is a show-in, I will switch it to 100.

I wrote in my recent review "The Parish Church Of St. Mary Dedham", identifying a geographic location renough that readers see it, is important. Henrietta is mentioned but I think the state, Virginia was named once, in the first novel. I like knowing where I am reading about.

Thank you for confirming Richard does not know the myth. I call it a myth and do not think a curse is real. Richard is really respectful and a cool boy, to not know the reason and adhere to minor physical affection! I wish she would tell him so they can disprove or resolve the myth together, instead of alone. Do you know the expression "Two heads are better than one"? Letting someone add their ideas is much more successful, with broader options. One person's thoughts and ideas have limits. I love collaborating with family and friends.

Yes, that is astute, Shirin. Maura was "a woman without a boyfriend" and was willing to romance Mr. Gray. (We learned his name later in our previous discussion. We should check that thread or the end of the prior novel). That is good evidence that he is worth knowing or weaving into the story.

It is impressive you are reading full novels in English, even though you claim you can't pronounce it. I hope you acted on my urging to practice English a little regularly. A little makes progress, versus not trying. Yes, Maggie's writing is spectacular and maybe a translation would not convey it as marvellously.

It sounds like you are almost done, Shirin. I looked for something else to read but this fantastic mystery adventure is too compelling. This is my birthday month: I must have fun and be happy! :-) You will join us soon, so I am going to keep reading this novel. The next time I come on-line, I will post my early impressions. They are joyous and invested in everything. Ha ha, Shirin! Yes, the prologue was an interesting introduction to read and stop, to think about while we are asleep.

I hope you & Kerri post your first impressions before I do. If not, write everything you think. Do not get stuck on topics that come from me. It is fun for me to see where your original minds, feelings, and tastes take us! Love, Carolyn.

Henrietta, Virginia: now that I am focusing on it, I will remember it! Washington state is below British Columbia, Canada; nowhere near Virginia in the middle southeast United States. They probably meant Washington city in District Of Columbia, which might be an okay drive from there. In Patricia Cornwell's novels, I learned Virginia is where the CIA school and bases are, which would want to be close to that nation's capital.

Oh yeah, I see on a USA map jpg I have, that Virginia is right next to District Of Columbia. I pictured it a little further south but I guess both North & South Carolina, before Florida, make Virgina further north.

Yes, of course Mr. Gray (whose name we used at the end of our "The Dream Thieves" discussion) outlasted his psychotic brother. He built on his relationship with Maura afterwards. He grieved her disappearance along with Blue, Calla, and Persephone.

Shirin is memorable for using the words "lacking sparkle" but that is what I said all along the way and afterwards as well. The magic was not there. The only place I disagree with Shirin is how to fix the bleakness of the second novel. While informative and a little funny as usual, felt most of the time for me like the fun was interrupted. Did you feel that way too, Kerri? Shirin & I both felt like we pushed through uninteresting or unpleasant chapter, in a series that was special for being entirely mysterious and positive. We did a lot of waiting for the GREAT moments to resume

Shirin suggested that adding some of the magic would have made the second volume better. I granted Maggie the wisdom of letting her characters plan, consider, and regroup to guarantee success. Since Aunt Neeve and Maura disappeared, as well Mom & Daughter deciding it was time to find Blue's Father; exploring the forest and caves properly extended the Welsh quest to a rescue mission. It was serious, not for fun anymore.

I prefer that the least enjoyable things were gotten over with in one book and that the GREAT exploration, events, and personal bonds are saved for the book we are reading now. This novel will be all about the GOOD stuff! What I think Maggie needed to do improve "The Dream Thieves" was reduce some of the negative shit.

Adam escaped an abusive parent. We learned about Noah's murder and state of decease. Mr. Gray spent most of the story trying to kill children and was previously ordered to kill Mr. Lynch. His brother hoped to kill Mr. Gray. Did we need this new boyfriend of Maura's at all? I guess that will be clear shortly. I would like to have done completely without Joe Kravowski. Ronan could have learned and developed who he was, without discovering another dream controller. Joe was a terrible one, not thinking of the welfare of the forest in which he was a rare guest. If ugly characters contribute to the main quest peripherally, we needed much less of them.

We are however, on the book we all want to read most! I already love it and can't wait to tell you about my first 29 pages, which are sublime and exciting with exactly the focus and positivity we want! It does "expand beautifully" as you wrote compellingly. I will write my impressions soon, a lot so soon but am always happy if one of you writes before me. It was nice to take care of our recap musing and questions in the meantime.

I don't know if I will read something else as I suggested, when we learned Shirin has one or two books to finish, last I saw. It is my birthday month, so I won't deny the pleasure if I want to keep reading! All that matters is that I keep posting and answering both of you bit by bit. :) Good-night!

Conversation starter #1: a recap and questions.

We all enjoyed the previous novel at four and five stars. I reread your reviews on it and commented at yours, Shirin because it was not written when I looked for updates. You & I feel the same way about everything.

Kerri seems to be at peace giving high scores to whatever she appreciates. Shirin enjoys horror and fantasy that has darkness and cruelty. However, Shirin & I are alike in pleasure diminished by too many pages on unlikeable characters and negativity. We want 90% of a story's focus to be on the chief mystery, goal, action, fun, and beautiful moments.

I enjoyed enough of this novel to give it five stars but liked it much less than the début. Shirin & I hope the public will push for a 10 star scale, so high scores go to books that are complete bliss. She is right that part of why I gave volume 2 five stars is contemplating how it stands up generally. Her review aptly expresses that a weaker story in this series and our other favourites, is superior to most novels.

We agree "The Dream Thieves" was an important filler novel, for introducing us and the friends to everyone's families. Shirin & I disliked the disruptive quantity of chapters about a hitman and violent boy, Joe Kravowski. We are glad Adam left a violent Father and helpless Mother, while everyone learned what happened to Noah. However, this was a lot of unpleasant content. Even though it was smart to plan and research so that investigating Crabewater forest was successful and informative;
chapters of an awful kid disturbing the beautiful place was not what I wanted to read, after I knew the happy feeling of visiting it.

Readers and protagonists learned about each others talents, and hopes. Private relationships corrected, by closing and starting with someone new. I don't know why either of you liked an angry, swearing, unapproachable character that Ronan is. I accept him as part of the group but it seems nuts to call him a favourite. Blue is the main protagonist, Richard is sweet and intelligent. Noah and Adam are good-hearted but have issues to deal with.

Having established this, I think finding a reason to like Ronan is the best outcome of this novel for me, besides teaching us what we need to know about everyone's talents and families. Sensitivity for his Mom & Matthew, missing their Dad, and caring for all creatures including baby mice is a personality I can get aboard.

There are questions I am asking your help with, ladies. I need to be reminded of which American state this story is in. I thought Mrs. & Mrs. Gansey or Richard mentioned driving distance from Washinton but perhaps I am confusing that with "A Wrinkle In Time". The new Goodreads book pages are terrible for many reasons: not quickly and easily loading our friends who read or added books, not providing the ISBN, and not showing - or not loading for rural internet like mine, the setting's location.

I also wonder if you ladies remember if Blue finally told Richard why she tried not to kiss anyone. At the end of the story, they held their faces together. Did Richard know why, or only accept Blue's request not to kiss? With this summary, I will give you both a few hours to answer if you are on-line in your time zones. Then, it will be my pleasure to add my first impressions of our third novel: "Blue Lily, Lily Blue"!

Hi Kerri, I am happy Shirin is joining us. Reading this series and the second stories that follow it, would not be the same without her. I don't know why "Enegy Medicine For Animals" was not set as finished weeks ago. I eagerly look forward to your feedback on "Callendar Square".

As I expressed in message #3, "Blue Lily, Lily Blue" yields a lot of excitement to chat about from the first page, in short introduction chapters. I will write my questions, recaps, and impressions. Then I will let this glorious, vibrant return to Cabeswater and our talented friends simmer.

I will read an artbook or something small and watch Shirin's progress of two novels she wants to finish. If they are good too, I understand wanting to focus on all of them singly. When Shirin is back to reading, we can be horses running out of gates! I hope I continue to trot at a gradual, scenery gazing canter. However, we will have free reign to gallop through the land if that excitement carries us away. Xoxo, Carolyn.

Hi Shirin, I am glad you saw this and will join us! My dear friend, there is no rush on letters. I was only hoping you did not stop after one letter. Sometimes, we would start to write, then you were gone for a year. Knowing we are continuing conversations whenever we are ready and in the mood: take as long as you want. :)

Also Shirin, I am enjoying this novel very slowly. Finish your others, which the short notice you received. I do not want to rush this marvellous world that we are excited about. The first few pages have so much information, in an entertaining and atmospheric way, I have a lot to write today even though I am only at page 29!

I will look at an artbook or something short, for a couple of days. Update your profile progress so we know where you are in your current books. I really want to make the thrill of volume 3 last. We are finally back to the mystery adventure and everything is ethereal and mysterious! I hope you have a copy in Persian, to savour all of these beautiful words and details. I have a favourite quote already on page 14. Hugs, Carolyn.

Are you ready to continue our 'paranormal mystery'? If Kerri or Shirin are with me and anyone else at this spot in Maggie Stiefvater's series, I will bring “Blue Lily, Lily Blue” to bed tonight! Raven Cycle #03 from 2014 is great for my birthday month extravaganza. I pamper myself with the authors and genres I love best and friends who share it with me!

To clarify: asking your availability is my effort to avoid the excitement and pace ever dragging. Available means we post our progress in small doses every day. Checking again the same day for friends' updates and replying faster, is what I hope for! Guessing together as we go along is more fun and discussing a little bit at a time is easy.

Reasonable interruptions are understandable but we are choosing a period to minimize this. Friends or relatives visiting? They won't mind 15 minutes for what we usually do in the morning (me), afternoon, or night. Suddenly busy? Discussing a chapter or two of a book is a nice break.

When there are only two or three of us, it is up to us to prevent a lag. Being availalble means unless our computer or internet are off, our communication is ON until we finish talking about this story. :) I look forward to it.

Our favourite exception to "a little every day" is our freedom to breeze through, if we have time and love the story. In that pleasant scenario, we do not mind big updates and do not hesitate to post them. We name our chapters at the top and if we are not that far, we reply to everything else. See you tonight! Love, your friend, Carolyn.

Hi Kerri! I am glad to continue our conversations. It keeps me boosted and entertained at the hard time of missing my dear Dad. No one loves us like our parents, which is true even with a caring, well-meaning spouse. It is sad to be in a world without them.

The hardest thing at this moment is how badly I want to show them the family video I made. It is for them and the unfortunate thing is: THEY WOULD LOVE IT. They of course know everyone on it better than anyone, being made for them. They would marvel at the time I took to find all the right photos and place them just so, up to our most recent family. I keep wanting to invite them over to see it and tell them about it by phone. I often have to remind myself that I can't. That hurts.

Enjoy every second with your Nan, parents, and animals. With a distant brother and a belligerant one to avoid, I feel alone. Thank goodness for other nearby family.

Anne created a Sister they were all distressed to lose and a Grandmama they could do without.... who is still alive many volumes later so far in my reading. Since you read more historical fiction than I care for myself, I enjoy you pointing out things I did not know. Is Anne special for not making instant super sleuths and modern ladies dropped falsely into old settings?

Yes; Charlotte, Emily, their Mother, and Aunt Vespasia resolutely hear what crime the world has and do what they can to combat it. When they cannot vote or join a senate, they send good men to do it.

You felt that your Mom read little or is that your Sister? I am happy she & her Mom might be keen on these. I rarely shared books with my parents, who preferred other genres but it is a beautiful feeling when we do. It is great fun to have things in common. One of my favourite recent memories with my Dad, is laughing at him turning his nose up at the Robert Service CD we gave him. He was a fan of the poems but did not commend the author's reading. I have that CD back. Who shall it go to next?

Yes indeed, we have many books to choose from. You are loving Lyn Hamilton and will be free to jump into more Anne Perry after. I will leave you to buy non-Canadian or popular authors. I will look for more Lyn Hamilton and Charlotte MacLeod spares.

I have heard of "Afterlife" and think someone else does a somewhat funny show or film about grief. It might be Daniel Radcliffe. Listen, my PVR is busy as it is. I enjoy nighttime talk shows but never watch them because that is reading time. I now tape all of them: Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and the handsome Stephen Colbert.

I am also recording the new seasons of "Ghosts", "Abbott Elementary, "Still Standing", and "Murdoch Mysteries"; which I notice the Dad from "Kim's Convenience" has joined. It works out fine that "Young & Restless" got too ugly and weird to like anymore. Instead, I peek to see if "Drew Barrymore" is doing an interview, than dip in to the vast collection of recordings.

I enjoy Kylie Minogue and want to try more of her songs. The popular CD I bought (with "Can't Get You Outta My Head"), does not work on our computer. Only the stereo will play it and I want albums I can make digital copies of. It is in my sell pile but I might as well listen to the songs at least.

Kerri, I am glad you wrote because it looked like our conversation was finishing weeks ago and I wanted to finalize that. It is almost wholly personal, so we might as well answer these items e-mail letters. I enjoyed everything you wrote: about our helpful cats, women deciding on our lifestyles, confidence, hobbies and talents being important, and of course honouring your birthday and the sacred ascension that precededit. Let's e-mail to continue that and I look forward to it.

If there is anything you want to continue about the Ann Brachares characters and subjects relating to them, you just need to say so. I will reprise our Anne Perry thread when I have time and I have one for TV shows and music, where we might debate about Britney Spears a little. I fault her a lot less than you do, which could make for a colourful subject. Love, Carolyn.

Hi Kerri, working on writing, photographs, and music for our dear Dad is healing and is another means of communicating with our parents too. I hope relatives and friends enjoy the long tributes and also comment at my blog. I replied to your beautiful comments and hope you see it. I like doing things with care, such as consideration of photographs for every family member and close family friend. I am excited and grateful about the photographs I have. I only need one of one uncle and aunt. I will test an unlabelled version of the film and see where I can upload and store it easily. Next, I will see how easy it is to label photographs. There are over 100.

I concluded that you answered messages 8 and 12 but much more briefly than the stories I told. I would enjoy indepth comments but if you wrote what your reaction was, that is good. You usually discuss taking pleasure in our stories, so that is all right.

I value knowing that all people must be self-assured in some social environments or confrontations and wary in others. Sociological and spiritual educators too easily wave the advice about, that awkardness or fear get in the way too much and that is true. However, it is not simple to wave it away. Caution and taking time to think about why we hesitate and deciding what to say are teaching moments too. Truly good, helpful advice should include acknowledgement of the rush of feelings and difficulties in the experience of being human. Some guy deciding he prefers spending life in a robe listening to sitar music, is blocking regular life; not balancing it with the courage of being a part of it. I am far better encouraged and emboldended by knowing the wariness and small form of fear is common. I am glad I heartwarm and encourage you, Kerri! It is true that we decide if we should muster up the boldness to say something or decide we can do without objecting to a difference of styles or goals.

What town does the novel's story take place in? I guess all four girls are confident, due to having families and friends to support, love, and understand them all their lives. Carmen and Tibby need to calm down. I think her Dad could keep a tennis match without stopping at a soccer game and while postponing a conversation with his fiancee. Your suggestion about saying: "Don't worry, you are a priority too" is lovely and made me feel warm and happy.

We discussed Lena and the misunderstanding. Lena's Grandma should not have asked Lena to avoid it but Lena only needed to circumvent an invitation and just say: "Nothing is wrong. I was surprised but the boy did not follow me".

Amy was bitchy in her early days of "The Big Bang Theory" and prefer when she became more normal. She still had self-deprecating anecdotes about her past and quirky ways. She stablized and improved Sheldon. They were like robots when they were both unfeeling and used formal dialogue. It doesn't sound like you watched "Young Sheldon". It comprised Sheldon narrating his childhood. It ended recently, with Amy & Sheldon making appearances in present day and their colourful but loving partnership was sweet.

I am happy you are enjoying "Corner Gas". I don't know if you have "globophobia" or the name Davis told us but no one likes a popped balloon. I have no fear of snakes but no one would be comfortable with them surprising us around ourselves or our homes. I see them regularly, thankfully elsewhere in our yard! They are small and shaped differently from us, which makes us hope they never sit in places they should not be. I pray to never close anything or step on them and harm any living being.

Last night, Petal meowed constantly enough from the kitchen to awaken me and I took her seriously. I had sen a photograph of an animal hero hall of fame I visited with my Brother & Sister-in-law in Toronto and was refreshed about the importance of listening to what animals tell us. Petal had found a little frog in the house, perhaps in the kitchen or she chased it there and I am grateful. She did not harm him or her but the little frog did not want to move to tempt being chased. I saw her or she was alive but possibly dry from being in the house for a day or more. I carried the young frog outside to a flowerbox, in case she needed to moisten up and rest without encountering any creature. This morning happily, she was gone on her way.

"Mr. D" is funny and sometimes inappropriate in its own ways, like Michael Scott and Dwight Schrute are but he does not resemble them. He is always confident and honest about saying what he thinks to students, staff, and friends. He is sometimes inappropriate but is a good person. I root for him and like some of his fellow teachers even better. The funny thing is that one of the actors is a famous Canadian rapper, "Maestro Fresh Wes", as I told you. I didn't see that it was him until I noticed that his name is shown as "Wes Williams". He is superb; everyone's favourite, handsome, loveable, huggable teacher. He does not resemble a rapper and is very well spoken.

A fun thing I noticed, like you did with Hank Yarbo, is that the Jocelyn Schitt actress appeared a few times! She has a completely normal demeanour and hair, which took a few minutes to recognize. I guess on "Schitt's Creek" she was zany or frazzled.

I am happy and excited we both love doing things when we feel inspired to do them and do not need to make a class out of them. I understand you need classes to perfect a music instrument or sport for career use. If I see my writing, reading understanding, and photography improving - which I joyfully sure do - it confirms that learning on my own terms works well. Oh yes, small classes or home schooling is the best. You get by anything holding you back in commuting, preparing your attire, the time of day and environment where you learn well, ease of discussion and extra study, no peer conflict interfering. You will deal with people enough in the world and get plenty of practice in it. I suggest letting the home schooling years preparing you without handicaps or distractions. If I know what to say to mean people before such situations occur, it is better. Also, knowing how to act in an emergency that we pray does not occur, is important.

With my in-laws or people who do not know what to say, it is superficial for someone to only ask where we work, where we studied, or whether or not we have human kids. There is judgement for someone who does not check-off those three boxes. I finally understood what to say and bolstered Ron with the information, who was bugged by his relatives and co-workers about me being based at home. Simply: the time has arrived to stop judging women. In the 1940s, they filled jobs while men were in a war. Women who liked careers gained the right to have one. It did not remove anyone's right to remain home based, to have artistic careers, or be homemakers. Until the 1980s, women were frowned upon if they did not quit jobs upon marriage, sometimes whether or not they bore children. In the 1990s, women were frowned at for putting children in daycare.

It is lunacy for anyone to object to women being home based! It must stop. I do have a career goal that must be built from home and ideas for making money from home as my career opportunities build. However, the judgement needs to stop either way. We pay our way of course but MAKING A LIFE is what is important, not earning a monetary living.

I happily tell people what I enjoy doing and am working on and how much we love our cats. What we do for pleasure is the best way to understand who most people are. Fewer people have jobs that are their passions, than those who use convenient skills to earn incomes. Ron would far rather do something else but stayed where he has a good income, benefits, and holiday time.

It would be handy if you learned how to download TV shows, not wait for streaming companies to offer it. I recently joked that I don't want to know how much time I would be on-line the first little while that we have good service! I have done a little reading and have enjoyed a good mix of TV. Ron & I need to resume Donna Eden's video course and have a wealth of music albums to enjoy together.

Happy birthday, my special friend! God bless you always, dear, wonderful Kerri! Love Carolyn, Ron, Angel, Petal, Conan.

(Part II after message #21).

Yes, Dwight is much smarter than Sheldon. Both actors are marvellous but Sheldon had too many weaknesses and unlikeable traits. He loved his Mom and Siblings but dismissed his roots. Dwight is too passionate and hardcore about his but their oddities are part of the humour. I just noticed that Sheldon lacked a comedic counterpoint.

Penny and Bernadette were bitches. Amy was like him but normalized after a few years. Rajish was useless and should not have been on the show any more than Penny should have. Leonard and Howard poked fun.

Jim made Dwight funny and they slowly became best friends. I loved the few shows in which Dwight was manager and Jim had fun being his assistant and afterwards, his best man at his wedding. I am happy I am a proficient storyteller at letting you envision my reenactments and giving you laughter, Kerri dear. :)

My present interest is a Canadian show from 2012 to 2018, successful to not have heard about it. "Mr. D" is a sports graduate who covets a gym teacher's job but got a job as a social studies teacher. He does not try to learn it and skims by, waiting for a chance to run the gym. There are a lot of interesting characters. Like in "The Office": sometimes you cringe at the awkwardness or dullness of a story or scene, sometimes they go too far, and sometimes they are so brilliant and entertaining, you absolutely relish it. There are a lot of musical episodes.

The teacher is often lazy and has a bad attitude but is funny similiar to Dwight Schrute and Michael Scott, for being frank about saying whatever he thinks, or too uncomfortably bizarre to stand. I like his confidence and I dislike the staff writing him off as being useless. However, there are many nice characters and friendships. I digitally record several stories on each week-day.

You wished for my current books to entertain me. I loved Anne Murray's autobiography. I am glad I read Britney Spears' but was sad about what she went through, the way I felt sad for Elvis Presley being used for money.

The natural cat care and Chinese relief books are paused. I was loving "Pretty Little Lies" by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, except for her stupid use of "backwards / towards" without an S. I look forward to reprising it. It is smart, unique, and makes me laugh.

I closed Protonmail a day ago and haven't tried opening it since but you know where else to reach me. At Prairie, let me know which newspaper URLs worked for you. Each is at the bottom of my Parents' tributes, further to two options of Mom's I e-mailed prior to finishing Dad's. Your comments at my blog meant a lot and I hope others chime in on the condolonces chorus.

I have received two wonderful sympathy cards. Please know I am late on all birthday mail from spring onwards. This is personal stuff meant for e-mail which I am saying in one go. I will delete this paragraph once you have read it. Love, Carolyn.