Lisa - (Aussie Girl)’s Comments (group member since Sep 26, 2012)

Lisa - (Aussie Girl)’s comments from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.

Amy the book-bat
13844 books | 498 friends
see comment historyDQ - Day 5
Start: Albert sat on his narrow bed..."


21. Wow, Albert has got quite the temper on him! The way he goes about ordering the wizards around and wanting to change the current ways of the Unseen University. Do you think the changes would have worked the way he intended, had he stayed? What do you think happened to Albert's staff though? Also, one has to commend the owners of the Drum though to have passed down a debt for generations.
Yep. Albert is the man with the plan.. or should that be The Wizard with the Plan! Thought the debt at the Drum was funny.

22. Mort and Ysabell go on an adventure, and the changes in Mort seem to take root completely though Ysabell manages to snap him out of it. Somewhere down the line, the two of them have fallen in love. Did you expect this to happen? Do you think they are a good fit?
It wasn't a very romantic journey, was it.. You didn't get any feelings from Mort it was heading in this direction, although I guess it was inevitable. Ties the story up in a nice neat bow.

23. For someone who doesn't actually feel emotions, DEATH seems a bit put out with Mort, and it culminates in a fight between DEATH and Mort. Would DEATH have killed Mort? Or was he always planning to turn the hourglass around and have the boy start over?
Maybe all that mortal stuff rubbed off on Death.. or he always had a soft spot for Mort. Good ending anyway.

24. What did you make of the ending? Was it a satisfying solution to the problem of a reality slightly out of whack? Mort tells DEATH that he has certainly learnt a lot while working as his apprentice. What do you think the most important lesson might have been?

Good ending.. the lesson.. I dunno.. all actions have reactions.. think before you act.. good always triumphs over evil.. one of these for sure.

25. Don't you just adore DEATH? *grin* Which was your favourite character or appearance in this book, and why?

I agree, Death for sure. I loved how he found his joy in cooking.. and cats.

26. Did you enjoy this book? If you've read the previous month's BOM, Equal Rites, does it compare? Or not?

This was my first Discworld and I enjoyed it. Not my usual genre but enjoyed the mythology and the quirkiness. 4 stars.

Louise wrote: "Celia wrote: "8. Gran Canaria (ES) - Palmas (BR)
Task: Spell it out - Letter P
Book: by Stacey Alabaster
Date read: 6/25/21
How it fits: titl..."

Me too!

Audrey Jane (friend)
714 books | 52 friends
see comment historyDQs Day 4
start: "The night shed its early casualties"
end: "'Now - are we going?'" (p200 / 76%)

16. Death trying to get drunk in the Mended Drum ! I felt for him during that scene. Do you think there's a way for Death to be human ? Assuming he wasn't human before like Mort ?
I really like Death's adventures, one of the best parts of the story. Maybe if Mort assumes his position Death may come human?

17. It seems Mort is not realizing he's changing and slowly becoming the 'grim reaper'. Even his behaviour is changing. People are noticing that "he's becoming more real. Nearly as real as Death". Is it possible that anyone can assume to role of 'Death' ? For example, as weird as it sounds, could Mort eventually reap Death's soul ?
One possible scenario for sure.

18. "What is it called when you feel warm and content and wish things would stay that way?" (has to be read in capital letters ;)) Death finally finds a job that suits him and brings him happiness. Did you expect he would be offered that kind of job ?

Yay for Death. Glad he is feeling some joy.

19. Has your opinion about Ysabell changed in the meantime?

Yes! Liking her a lot better towards the end.

20. So it turns out Alberto Malich succeeded in postponing his death for more than 2000 years and knows exactly how long he's going to live: 91 days, 3 hours, and 5 minutes. Do you think he will move on and live what remains of his life in this book? If you had the option, would you want to know how much is left in your 'lifetime' ?

I think Albert will find a way to return to his previous position with Death. No way would I want to know my fate.

Finished BOM . Used for Bingo - White Horse. Binky is Death's white horse. My first Discworld - quite enjoyed it.

Day 3 Questions end: "Then Cutwell sighted carefully ... [spoiler removed]" (p151 / 58%)

Q11. Do you think Mort is physically changing? When it says, "The gargoyle looked up into his face and suddenly felt like a very frightened doorknocker indeed, Mort's eyes glowed like crucibles, his expression was a furnace, his voice held enough enough to melt iron. It didn't know what he could do, but felt that it would prefer not to find out." - it seems these may be actual physical manifestations. With the photo Mort sees soon after with the wizard Cutwell, do you think that was originally Death in the photo before a transformation?
Yes, Mort is changing into DEATH.
I thought the photo was Death but then I remembered that Death had never been human so not sure who that was.. A Wizard.. Albert?

Q12. What do you think about the plot point where Keli is dead, but is not? Do you think this was a clever twist of the author or do you find it a confusing jumble? How will this affect the story and will Death find out what actually happened and react?
I really like that plot point, and the two time lines where what is supposed to happen is catching up with Mort's inference in the time line. I love space time continuum stuff! I'm thinking that Death will come to his senses and return everything to normal.. after chastising Mort severely.

Q13. There suddenly seems to be sign that Death may be playing matchmaker of sorts with Mort and his 'daughter'. Are you surprised, and what do you think will happen with the relationship between him and Ysabel?
No, I sort of picked up on that.. I've finished so won't spoil just to say everything finished up like it was supposed to.

Q14. Do you think that before Mort was chosen by Death, that he was a normal boy? Do you think he must have some wizard properties buried or are his "abilities" gathered from being Death's apprentice? What do you think about Mort attracting death's attention - what is so special about him?

I think the fact he was the last one to be picked swayed Death because no one would miss him too much. But it all works out how its supposed to so probably good pick, Death.

Q15. Mort seems to be getting a bit homesick after his day off, and Death is changing his tune as well. What do you think about Death's new adventures to experience some human experiences, try to understand fun and how humans behave?

I really liked this bit, Death trying out the human experiences. Some funny lines there.

Karen ⊰✿ wrote: "Lisa - (Aussie Girl) wrote: "Oh my goodness, Karen.. are you able to go on your holiday? What a mess!"

It has been a crazy few days!
We got the QLD border pass on Wednesday and then about 2 hours ..."

So glad you were able to rearrange your plans and make the best of it. Your poor boys.. and cranky husband... super Mum makes it all better, LOL. Have a lovely time.

My husband has gone back to our farm where he is also working remotely, I've decided to stay here as my son's programs are still functioning so far. We're in the age group where the vaccine has been switched to Pfizer but alas there seems to be none around in our area. Our GP was knocked back for July and can't even register for an appointment at RNSH. Looks like a trip out to Homebush Hub for us.

Hope everyone enjoys their weekend.

DQs Day 2 - start: "Five minutes later, Mort was lost"
end: "Sooner or later, everyone remembered the magic word (p98)


Q6 - Mort walked through the walls a few times but couldn't when he tried to get into the castle. Why do you think this happened?
It happened in an unconscious way. Instinctive. When he tried to do it purposefully he couldn't do. He had to become one with the magic.

Q7- What do you think of Ingneous Cutwell's character?

Have we met him yet? Can't recall him up to this point

Q8 - The Abbot has been reincarnated 53 times. The concept of reincarnation is an interesting one. If you were to be born again what life would you choose?
That's a tough one. I'm quite happy with the life I've got, you start messing around with fate and sh** happens!

Q9 - Death sent Mort to reap three souls. In light of how he performed do you think Mort was ready for the job?
It seems that Mort has done the cardinal sin. Interfering with the natural way of things by stopping Kelli's Death. Is Discworld going to unravel because of this.. We will see...

Q10 - Mort found Ysabelle's handkerchief in the library. Why is she reading other people's life?

So far we haven't got a very favourable viewing of Ysabell. She is condescending to Mort and obviously a sticky beak. She's up to something sneaking around.. We haven't heard her backstory yet, that will maybe clear a few things up.

Jammin Jenny wrote: "I think we're just waiting for Celia to finish her book for the last stop."

You probably could approach the Travel Agent for a new Itinerary, Jenny. It usually takes them a little while to respond. It's end of our financial year here so busy, busy, busy for me. Hope everyone is doing okay.

Oh my goodness, Karen.. are you able to go on your holiday? What a mess!

Angie ☯
5524 books | 300 friends
see comment historyDQs Day 1: (end: "'I want' he said firmly 'a very fast horse.'"19% / Page 52)

1. Mort is nothing if not determined. He refuses to give up on being a “prentice” until the last stoke of midnight. Then at the very last second, Death arrives for him. Do you think Mort was quick to take the apprenticeship perhaps from feeling humiliated at the days events or was it something that truly intrigued him? Would you have been willing to work for Death?
I think there were elements of pride and not going back with his father. But he also seems a bright type of boy who is interested in the world and working for Death was an opportunity he couldn't refuse.

2. Death has a sarcastic tone during this first section. What do you think of his fawning over Mort to ensure he gets new clothes and food and Death eating with him like a regular guy? Is he up to something sinister or does he just want to make Mort comfortable?
I think Death has taken a shine to Mort. Also even though he is Death he isn't cruel or evil, just doing a job. He doesn't actual kill people, just does what comes next.

3. Mort may be a bit gangly and lost in his own head at times, but he seems to have a lot of compassion. Upon realizing that he was talking to Death, he asked him to spare his Dad. Later he tries to intervene and warn the King that he was about to be killed and finally on that same trip he wanted to tell the King’s daughter not to trust the Duke. What did you think of all that? Are these normal reactions to someone who is the apprentice to Death? Do you think it will continue as Mort sees more and more of Death’s duty?

I like Mort, he seems like a considerate, kind young man. Hopefully that won't change as the story progresses

4. What is up with the constant utterance of “Mort” every time someone calls our MC anything other than Mort or Mortimer after arriving at Death’s House and meeting Yasbell? Is there some significance to this or is it just rather annoying?! Lol!
I think there is more to Mort than meets the eye. He has self esteem, pride and wants to be treated more than the hired help.. he has ambitions and wants to progress in the world.

5. Mort, surprisingly, asked Death for an afternoon off. I think our dear Mort is growing up! He explains to Death that he wants to meet people for more than a few minutes. When he arrives in his own time and finds out where he is, he asks if he is near Sto Lat. He seems to have a plan when he says he wants a very fast horse. What do you think he intends? Will it work out like he plans?

It's something to do with the Princess.. now Queen. Mort is intrigued that she seemed to "see" him and wants to find out why . He is drawn to her somehow.

Megan
3364 books | 79 friends
see comment historyDQs Day 7 chapters 46 - end

30. Were you surprised by who was behind the meth? How the conversation leading up to the trailer was so casual?

Not surprised, I flagged this possibility in the last set of questions. How devastating for Daunis though.

31. How well do you think the author has dealt with the assault by Mike's dad? Did you expect her brother to basically blame Daunis for this? Do you think his reaction is explained when you find out what his mother did to their father?
It seemed a bit rushed over and I know Daunis is a strong woman but she just went on. No time to grieve and work through what happened to her. And no justice for her whatsoever!

32. The part with the elders on the ferry I think was perfect in this book. Really showed the community Daunis has tried to protect and help. Did you expect a part like this? Did it help in anyway improve what was quite a negative few chapters?

I loved the Elders kicking butt! It was one of the positive aspects of the book, exploring the way the Elders contributed to the community. So much wisdom if the younger people would only listen.

33. Was Daunis right to send Jamie away? What did you make of their romance? Was it a good addition to the book or did it distract you from the plot?
It was a very fitting end and was true to Daunis' character. But the romance reader in me wished we had an epilogue a few years down the track when they reconciled. We never even got to find out Jamie's real name!

34. Has this book taught you anything? Did you enjoy reading about the different culture and their traditions?

I did enjoy the book, something I wouldn't usually pick up. A lot of the customs and problems facing these First Nations people also happen here in Australia. Lots to think about moving forward.

. Finished 4 stars. Enjoyed it. BOM/shelf and s/sheet noted.

Day 5 - Chapters 30 - 38

21. Levi has an answer for why there's more money than expected in the joint account. Do you believe him? Would you join in his business opportunity?

The answer seemed a little too smooth for me. I really hope Levi is not involved in the drug trade. 😒

22. Daunis calls Levi out on his double standards - protecting her from the other boys sexual appraisal but being willing to objectify other girls himself, but isn't willing to challenge Mrs Hancock on her Bigotry Bingo racist comment. Sure there are different interpersonal dynamics there, but why is she more willing to challenge sexist comments than racist ones? A reflection on her ambivalence about her own racial identity perhaps?
I think it had more to do with that she is comfortable to challenge her brother but not an older woman who is set in her ways. Making a scene probably wouldn't of achieved anything. Daunis knows how to pick her battles.

23. The relationship with Jamie is continuing to develop, with Daunis letting him into the secret about her hockey-ending issue. 22 v 19 isn't as bad as initially thought (and Jamie is BIA rather than FBI, so it might stack up). Would you trust Jamie?

I really like Jamie.. I hope he is on the level and they can continue their relationship after they finish working the case. He seems a really sincere guy, although he is possible hiding a secret about his heritage.

24. Daunis has another flashback to Lily's murder, and (possibly) recovers more memory of it, leading to a big realisation, about the bad medicine. She's very much off-piste with the confidential informant role now, and doing her own investigation. Thoughts on the new insight? Predictions for the ending?

With all respect to indigenous beliefs, I'm a bit confused why she is hiding her theory about the small men. If she thought they wouldn't believe her why wouldn't she just tell them that there was no evidence of a mystery compound added to the meth? I'm sure she will solve the mystery, maybe coming into danger herself, hopefully all will be okay and she and Jamie will be able to start a proper relationship.

Lynne Day 4: Chapters 24-29

16. Daunis talks a lot about keeping her various worlds separate so they don’t overlap. Hockey World/Real World, Fontaine/Firekeeper And now she has to add in being a Sneaky Squirrel. Have you ever felt like you live in different worlds, and do you agree with Daunis that it is easier to keep those separate?

I think everyone has different "worlds" in their life. Whether it be family, different groups of friends or work colleagues. Sometimes they intermingle and sometimes it's best to keep them separate.

17. I love all of the interactions Daunis has with the Elders and how much she values their wisdom and guidance. What do you think of the role Elders have in the Ojibwe community? How does this compare to the role of senior citizens in your own community?

I love how the Elders try to be supports to their community. I think this happens in most cultures, but sometimes younger people don't want to listen. Mutual respect is the key.

18. Also - which elder’s coming of age story would you most want to read?
I'd love to hear more about the love affair between Daunis' parents. That must have been a doozie back in the day. Also some of Auntie Teddie's shenanigans, she sounds like she was a hoot.

19. This book has a lot of major themes (identity, community, racism, grief, justice, women standing up for other women, etc). Which theme stands out to you most or resonates with you most?

I've just visited Central Australia and learnt a bit more about our own First Nations Culture and there are a lot of similarities. Some terrible things have happened and a lot of disrespect. Hopefully we're all moving forward together. I'm finding that and some of the differences really interesting as well.

20. Lots of unexpected events and suspicious characters in this section. Who are you most suspicious of at this point in the story? 👀

I'm thinking someone unexpected which is going to be a shock. Maybe one of Levi's friends? Or a person in leadership who is using their position in a bad way?

Yay. Finally got picked for some DQs! The back room ones will be… interesting lol.

Good for my day. 😀

DQs Day 3 Chapters 16 - 23

11. Gramma Pearl shared many wonderful legacy stories with Daunis. I loved the reference Daunis makes regarding the storm and the thunderbirds bringing loved ones from the other world to check on them. As a result, Daunis has happy memories about storms versus being afraid and she consistently refers to Gramma Pearl when deciding what to do. Do you have any advice, stories or traditions passed down from family that you often think about? Something that you would share with your legacy...if so, share if you are comfortable.
I think most families have stories and advice from their Elders but not in the format of Indigenous people.

12. "The FBI is interested in learning what caused the group hallucination. I want to know if the kids are okay." Daunis obviously thinks the FBI isn't investigating for the right reasons. I observe all the time that young people have a different view on things than more experienced/older people. Who's right? What do we learn from situations such as this? Other thoughts?

Just because Ron is focused on the case because that's his job doesn't mean he doesn't care about victims. I'm sure he does. But definitely different generations do look at a situation in a different way. Neither is wrong or right.

13. Heather is clearly not liked amongst the girls at the beach party...why do you think Heather approaches Daunis about buying drugs? Do you think this has something to do with why she turns up dead, washed up at Duck Island?

Seems Heather is pushing drugs and see Daunis has a likely buyer because she is in a new relationship and Heather is selling sex drugs. Yep, she'd definitely involved somehow with the ring that Ron and Jamie are investigating. Not sure why she ended up dead yet. Maybe because she attempted to sell to Daunis and her bosses know that David was onto to them and are suspicious of Daunis.

14. In chapter 20, Jamie asks Daunis about the meaning of 'Firekeeper's Daughter'. It's her job to lift up the sun every day. What do you think about this explanation? Do you find additional meaning in this as it relates to Daunis and her role in the plot of this story?
I'm really enjoying learning about the culture and stories of these First Nations People, and Daunis seems exactly the sort of strong woman that the tales are about.

15. Daunis finds Heather during her mushroom sleuthing on Duck Island. During her thinking she has an 'ah-ha' moment regarding her Uncle's journals. When she goes to look for them, she's quick to assume that they don't exist because of the connection to the FBI and the confidentiality required...do you think she's right...thoughts?

I think the journals are hidden somewhere because of their content and Daunis will realise this and find them later on in the book.

Day 2 Chapters 9 to 15

6. I thought that the opening scene with Daunis and the gun would show up again towards the end of the book. That’s usually what happens when authors use this kind of device. Were you surprised that it happens not even a quarter of the way in?
Yes I was. Maybe the chapters preceding were the author's way of setting up the scene and introducing the reader to the culture of the characters and how important it is to the overall story. Then the murder and how the two are intertwined and the impact on Daunis' life. A before and after scenario.

7. We knew there would be a murder but we’re you surprised that it was Lily who was killed? Did you suspect something bad would happen between her and Travis?

It was definitely leading that way. We knew Travis was troubled and there was tension between them that could spill over to disaster.

8. The synopsis also hinted that Jamie was not all he seemed. I thought he would be something to do with the murder but not that he would be an undercover agent. What did you think it was that Jamie was hiding?
I thought it was something like abuse or he had been in a gang or escaping a horrible situation. The scar on his face led me in this direction, it was mentioned quite a lot.

9. If you were Daunis would you have agreed to be a confidential informant? I’m not sure I would be brave enough.

No, not me but she seems a really strong person with values of loyalty doing the right thing so I'm not surprised she agreed to help to get justice for her loved ones.

10. Being a confidential informant seems to be very complicated with Daunis being expected to really investigate what is happening rather than just let them know if she comes across anything suspicious. How well do you think Daunis will be able to do this as it’s her own community and perhaps members of her own family that she will be investigating?

She is strong and intelligent. It did seem a lot for an untrained eighteen year old girl though.

Tina ❣ wrote: "Lisa - (Aussie Girl) wrote: "Tina, would this pass for a Crown on the cover? "

It seems more like a tiara than a crown"

Yes, I thought that as well but it was worth a try, LOL.

Another problem for tourist operators is getting staff. Uluru can only run at 60% because they just can't get the workers. And some of the staff they do have are working 7 days a week. It was a great time to go as it wasn't crowded and the cool temperatures made it much more enjoyable.