Geri’s Comments

Geri’s comments from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.

Note: Geri is not currently a member of this group.

Ch 30 - 39

15. The author seems to have tried to make the Gods seem inhumane, I know they are not human but do you believe this is on purpose to help us readers choose a side? Does anyone hope the Gods win? Or are we hoping for a more compromising conclusion?

There are always two sides to a story so I don't think humans or Gods are completely to blame for what happened. I am hoping for more of a compromise. Although, this is book 1, so the situation won't likely be resolved yet!

16. How do you think Sarai felt seeing herself as Strange the Dreamer does? Do you think her seeing herself this way will help her have more compassion for the humans in the long run?

Yes. I do think a lot of good will come of her interactions with Lazlo.

17. I love how fascinated Sarai is with books when she sees hem in Lazlo's dream. What was it that made you fall in love with books?

The many different worlds and lives I can explore!

18. Why do you think Lazlo took the risk of getting on the plane after Sarai's warning of death?

Lazlo is a hero, he just doesn't know it yet.

19. “What matter of new dread would this cause?” -- Do you think the people of Weep deserve to know what happened on their flight mission? (Seeing the very much alive Gods) or do you think they chose correctly to keep it quiet for now?

I think it is wise to keep quiet for now. Thinking things through before acting is always a good strategy.

DQs Day 3 Chapter19-29

10. In chapter 20 Sarai has a nightmare, despite her efforts to keep herself from dreaming. A ghost named Yaselith attempts to kill Sarai with a knife and learns that ghosts are not able to hurt the living. Yaselith then tells Sarai, "Then you should hurt yourself...Put Weep out of its misery. Kill yourself, girl. Have mercy on us all. Do it." She finds herself in her mother's bed and when she removes the knife from the bed, the bed squirts blood everywhere, then she plunges the knife into her chest. What do you think Sarai's dream symbolizes? Do you think her subconscious is trying to remind her of something from the past?

Yes. I think Sarai is starting to remember the past. This may symbolize the death of her mother. And possibly the fear that she may be like her mother.

11. Minya treats the ghosts in the citadel like puppets. Why do you think Minya toys with the ghosts?

I think this is another aspect of her being able to remember the past. She is vengeful, like her parent, Scathes.

12. Eril-Fane (the Godslayer) doesn't like to sleep in Weep because he has nightmares. Lazlo learns this from Eril-Fanes's mother. "He realized that all this time he'd been looking to the Godslayer as a hero, not a man, but that heroes whatever else they are, are also men- and women- and prey to human troubles like anybody else." I loved this quote. It shows that no one is invincible or perfect. Everyone has something in their lives that they've gone through. What does this revelation about Eril-Fane mean to you?

I see this as an important lesson for Lazlo to learn. This will likely help him with his confidence and wish for greatness.

13. Sarai is in search of her father, The Godslayer, and instead finds Lazlo. She invades his dream and he is able to see her. Why do you think Lazlo can see Sarai when no one else can?

I thought from the beginning Lazlo was different with special abilities. I am wondering if he was born in Weep and is the one baby that showed the special ability to bend metal? This was mentioned in passing and no information was given about what happened to that baby.

14. Minya reveals that she has been collecting ghosts for years, building an army of the dead. The others seem appalled, especially Sarai. When Sarai expresses her sympathy for the humans Minya replies with "I should have saved a different baby." (I think I felt the slap in the face come right out of my book.) What do you think Minya has planned? Do you think the four others will fall in line with Minya's plan?

Minya is definitely getting ready for a fight. And relishing it too! I was surprised to find out just why Minya has chosen to stay 6. So she could fit through the door. I think the other 4 will go along with her plans, at least at first.

DQs Chapter 12-18

#5 God spawn are the 5 unknown survivors residing at the Citadel. Each child half god, half human and born with blue flesh. All 5 children are gifted with a magical talent: Sarai - "muse of nightmares", Feral - "Cloud Thief", Sparrow - "Orchid Witch", Ruby - "Bonfire" and Minya - Ghost catcher. Each of these “gifts” are a contribution for survival. Water, fire, food, caregivers and … torture? Sarai’s gift comes from her mother, The Godess of despair, Isagol. How does Sarai's gift to contribute to their daily needs?

I don't think Sarai's gift is necessarily a gift to satisfy daily needs. Her gift has more to do with protecting her and her siblings in the long run. Very important for survival.

#6 In Part 2, We are introduced to the 5 god spawn teenagers who have been hiding for 15 years in the Citadel. At age 6, Minya saves 4 other infants and captures several ghosts to assist in raising these children. The 4 continue to grow and age normally, yet Minya continues to appear 6 years old. Why do you think Minya doesn’t age physically yet the others are teenagers?

Minyan can age but chooses not to. This reminds me of Peter Pan and his refusal to grow up. I think Minya stays 6 years old so she doesn't have to change her behavior and grow up in other ways as well.

#7 Minya is the only god spawn who remembers the carnage when the god slayer killed all the children. She enjoys hearing the recollection of Sarai haunting their nightmares and torturing the people of the city. Does this make Minya evil? or is she only doing what she needs to do for their survival?

Since Minya can remember what happened, hearing about how Sarai terrorizes the people would be a sort of revenge. I can't say yet if Minya is evil. They are all just trying to survive.

#8 Sarai’s gift as the Muse of Nightmares, didn’t appear until she was older than the other children. While waiting for her gift to present itself , Sarai often wished she could fly. If you could pick one of the god spawn’s gifts which would you choose and why?

I actually think Minya's ability is the most interesting. This was a creative ability to give a character.

#9 Sarai screams Moths to embark on her nightly gift, why do you think the author chose Moths? What do they signify?

I had to look up information about moths. The thing I found most interesting is that moths are nocturnal. Which makes sense why Sarai would scream them at night. Faith, intuition, invisibility and determination are some terms that moths are associated with. All these make sense as well when I think about the situation the children are in.

DQs Prologue - Ch 1 - 11

1. The author starts us with some beautiful imagery of a violent end. What did you think of this as a beginning? Did it draw your interest and leave you wanting more? Do you like it when you are given a prologue that might not be answered until the end of the novel?

The mystery of what happened drew me in right away. I don't mind if this isn't solved until the end. It will keep me reading.

2. Lazlo Strange came from humble beginnings, and is now a grown man. Do you feel he has changed from that rebellious boy in the orchard? Why do you think the library chose him? And do you believe people have a calling in life to follow, or do you think you can choose your own path?

Lasso has changed some, but he has not been broken, thankfully. I like that about him. Lasso does seem to have some special abilities, and the librarians likely saw this. I do think we are all given talents , but whether we use them or follow our dreams is entirely up to us.

3. Lazlo was drawn to help Thyon when he stumbled upon the scene in the tomb walk between Thyon and his father. Do you feel Lazlo made the wrong decision to share the book with Thyon or do you think it was all part of fate’s larger plan? And would you have been tempted to keep the book for yourself instead?

Boy, it was tough for me to read about Thyon's beating! After this, though, Laslo felt a kinship with Thyon. Laslo has a kind heart. That is who he is. So, no, I don't think Laslo made a mistake by helping Thyon.

4. “Some men are born for great things, and others to help great men do great things.” How do you feel about this quote? Do you believe people are born to their roles in life or do you believe people can change their stars? Lazlo takes a huge risk by impulsively offering his services to Eril-Fane. Would you have taken a similar risk to help fulfill your dreams? Have you ever taken a risk that changed the course of your life?

I think the person who helps great men do great things are just as important as the great man doing great things. If that is where your talents lie, there is nothing wrong with it. I loved that Laslo was able to overcome his hesitation and risk everything for his dream. He has made a powerful enemy in Thyon now. I am enjoying this book more than I anticipated. Can't wait to read more!

28: Sofia is now seventeen on the edge of adulthood, did you find the Counts reaction when he found Sofia alone with Victor Stepanovich an older man unexpected or natural?

I was not surprised at all. The Count was a Papa bear protecting his young daughter. I did laugh when I found out what was really going on. Not surprised Sofia is smart and talented.

29: Over the years the Count and Richard Vanderwhile develop a friendship do you agree with the narrator of the book that people of similar social standing and upbringing will gravitate towards each other?

Yes. I know there is a saying that opposites attract. But I think it's the similarities between people that bond them the most. Like on Goodreads. Everyone has a love of books.

30: The Count became very upset when he discovered Sofia And Anna had become acquainted without his knowledge. Why do you think he wished to keep his relationship with Anna and his life as Sofia's father separate?

The Count is very formal and particular in all things. I am not surprised he would want to keep a mistress away from his daughter. In his mind he probably thinks this part of his life (Anna) is private and off limits to his daughter. And now that Anna is a film star again, he probably wants to avoid any of her attention.

31: Were you surprised when Richard asked the Count to spy? Do you think this request and the Count turning him down will effect their friendship?

I did not get the feeling that this would end their friendship. No, I am not surprised. The Count is in a good position to gather information.

32: What did you make of Mishka's Manuscript on bread? Do you think bread holds a special place in the Russian consciousness after reading the quotes Mishka used?

After hearing the passages, it appears so. Interesting perspective and subject to research.

33: As we come to the final part of book what do you imagine will become of the Count, Sofia and Anna?

Anna is resourceful and will be just fine. Sofia will go on to impress everyone with her talent. And hopefully, the Count will finally be free to leave the hotel. Let's see if any of this comes true! LOL

May 16 QUESTIONS
SECTION 1938/An Arrival - Addendum pages 229 - 317

#21. Up to this point in the book we have seen many references to smell and taste and ingredients of both wine and food, what significance do you think this has on the book? Who do you think the mystery ingredient provider may be?

I think the food and wine give us better insight into the Count. It is important to him so it takes center stage in the book.

#22. The Count may be exiled, but he has no shortage of funds and it doesn't seem to come solely from his coin stash, why do you think that his money was not impounded by the court when he was placed into exile? What impact would that have had on the story? Do you think he is paying for the room he stays in?

I wondered about this as well! This would have been a very different story if he were penniless. I think the author's point that even a luxurious hotel can still be a prison would be lost if the Count were penniless and could not stay at the hotel.

#23. What are your thoughts on Nina leaving Sofia with the Count? Would this be the way you would deal with the situation if faced with the same? If you were in a similar position, given the story thus far, would you feel as if you knew Sasha enough to do the same?

Nina is definitely in dire straits to take her daughter to the Count. No, the Count would not be my first choice.

#24. What are your thoughts on the "thimble" game? What do you think is says about Sofia, and what does it show us about the Count?

I really enjoy the interaction between Sofia and the Count!
Sofia gets her smarts from her mother. She reminds me of a young Nina. The Count, I think, was pleasantly surprised by the thimble game. I am sure he is reminded of Nina.

#25. Do you think the count has after had to look after anyone else in his life or has he only ever been looked after? Do you think that the Count is changing more now than ever before in his life? What might be some indications that make you think the way you do?

I think Sofia is good for the Count. A child will definitely give his life purpose. He has to think about someone else besides himself and so far he is doing great.

#26. What do you think are the ramifications of Sofia's presence? Do you think that we will see Nina again?

I was sad to find out in this section that Nina was never heard from again. Although, the sighting of a woman wearing a bright orange dress does mystify me. Not sure why the author mentioned it.

It does look like someone behind the scenes is protecting the Count. A letter was written about Sofia then destroyed. Possibly Osip?

#27. Do you think anything will happen to the count for going to the hospital? Why do you think that Osip helped him?

Osip has become a good friend and ally. No, I don't think the Count will get in trouble.

Lusie wrote: "I hadn't looked at it that way yet, Viji and Cali. A break day does give people the chance to catch up. You might have guessed I'm a fast reader.

Viji, I don't agree that slow reading makes you e..."

I found the book difficult to get into at first. Reading this slowly and having to answer structured questions has helped me tremendously to appreciate the story. It has kept me more focused. Otherwise, I think a lot would have been overlooked.

Day 3 Discussion Questions

14. The Count meets an Englishman in the bar and tells him what happened to his sister. What did you think of the story and were you surprised he told it to a stranger in a bar? Do you think he's right to feel responsible and do you think it is influencing his actions and behaviour?

I was not surprised he told a stranger. Sometimes it is easier to tell a stranger something so personal. No, I do not feel the Count is responsible for what happened. His sister's heart would have been broken either way. And I don't see a connection between what happened and her eventually contracting an illness. This my be affecting him even now. His apparent acceptance of his imprisonment as a possibility that he deserves it. And contemplation of suicide on the anniversary of her death.

15. On the night he decides to end things he involves himself in the discussion in the bar then hesitates at the edge of the roof. Do you think he would really have stepped off if he hadn't been interrupted? Why do you think he changed his mind after tasting the honey?

I do think he was serious. But the honey made him realize there are good things left in life. It is up to us to make the most of it, so we have no regrets in the end.

16. "when you exile a man into his own country, there is no beginning anew" Do you agree that for a man like the Count his confinement to the hotel is a greater punishment than if he'd been exiled to another country? Would this be the case for everyone as the book suggests? It seemed like the Prince didn't suffer so much being subject to the Minus Six.

This one I had to mull over. The Count has it the worst. Living in your country without freedom to roam about. This is truly prison. Being exiled to another country is almost like being on vacation, at least in the beginning. Then, eventually you could set down roots. A person would be able to go to all other countries as well. Being exiled from cities in your own country is trickier. The comforts and familiarity of your home country could still be yours. This person would be an outcast, though. And some freedoms taken away. Not as bad as being confined in a hotel.

17. I really like Nina as a character and loved the relationship between her and the Count so was surprised when she met him as an adult and was so cold towards him. Why do you think this was? Do you think they'll be reunited and become close again or are they heading in different directions?

Nina is growing up and experimenting with new ideas and relationships. Totally normal. I do hope she will return to the story. And yes, it would be nice if the Count and Nina were close friends again.

18. Anna's fortunes changed dramatically. What did you think about how she dealt with it? Do you believe she has changed? What about her relationship with the Count? Were you surprised? Do you think it is serious and will last or are they just using each other?

I actually admired Anna's perseverance. Lessons learned about setbacks are important. I think the Count and Anna understand each other better now and that is how their affair got started again. I think the relationship is good for the Count, whether it lasts or not.

19. The Count is working as head waiter in the restaurant and seems to have formed a real friendship with Andrey and Emile. What are your thoughts on Andrey and Emile and why do you think they get on so well? I absolutely loved the scene with Triumvirate and the bouillabaisse but was a bit confused as to why it was such a secret. Why was it so important to them and why did it cause such a strong emotional reaction?

I also enjoyed this section. It really did show just how much these three have bonded. They did not want to tell Bishop about this because this was only for the three of them. It was a meal they could only share infrequently. So it was even more precious. It brought back memories for them all, sealing their bond even more.

20. What were your feelings on the meeting between the Count and Osip Ivanovich Glebnikov? He wants the Count to meet with him regularly to help him learn about the English and the French languages and cultures. Why do you think this is and why the Count? Do you think the Count will gain anything from this or is he heading for trouble?

Osip is a smart man. Trying to understand other cultures is important when it comes to negotiating with them. I am not sure exactly what the Count will gain. Possibly Osip may be able to help the Count later?

Alison wrote: "Is this book making anyone else really hungry? All the descriptions of stews, roast beef and Yorkshire puddings, and ice cream is giving me serious cravings for comfort food."

LOL. I agree. The descriptions of wine makes me thirsty for a glass or two as well.

7. A Gentleman in Moscow references a lot of famous Russian literature (War and Peace, The Brothers Karamazov, Anna Karenina, etc.) and famous Russian authors (Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, etc.). Have you read any Russian literature/any of the books the author cites? How is this novel similar or different to these works?

No, I don't know much about Russian literature. I have seen Anna Karenina and War And Peace, the movie adaptations. In both of these some of the characters are also rich aristocrats who have definite hardships to overcome. So maybe this is a common theme between the book and Russian literature?

8. The Count met a large cast of colorful characters in this section. Which encounter, vignette, or flashback was your favorite? Which one struck you the most?

The story of the Count in the coat closet struck me the most. I think it illustrated just how much he longs to be free to roam outdoors. By looking and smelling the coats it helped to bring back memories for the Count, and he could escape the prison of the hotel for awhile.

I also enjoyed the romantic couple story. The Count created details of their relationship to amuse himself and live vicariously through them. His wine expertise is important here. Which I think is important for the last chapter in this section and his reaction in the wine cellar.

9. What do you think of Anna Urbanova? Do you think she will reappear in the story later?

She really knows how to make an entrance! LOL Seriously, though, her reaction to the Count picking up her shirt baffled me. I thought it was way out of proportion. I am not sure if she will reappear. Not sure I want her to come back to the story.

10. The Count believes Anna has cast a sort of spell on him that is turning him more ghost-like. Is there evidence to support this? The Count vividly describes friendship in the last chapter of this section, Anonymity (on page 134). By his description, do you think the Count has any remaining friends?

These are definitely lonely times for the Count. His invisibility spell is a metaphor for his loneliness. It has been years since he has been confined to the hotel. I think he is losing touch with friends and acquaintances.

11. The wine cellar seems to be a turning point in the Count’s perspective on his imprisonment. What did you think of his description of the wines? What are your thoughts on the Bishop? Do you think that he really orchestrated this change out of spite, or was it higher officials that brought this to pass?

The new regime orchestrated this. I could see how the Count would take this hard. His knowledge of wine is important to him. It's one aspect of his old life he can hold onto. Now, this has been taken away from him.

12. The narrator has a couple of lively footnotes in these chapters. Do you think the narrative voice is the Count, or someone else? How are the narrator and the Count similar or different? Do you think the Count is as happy or vivacious as the narrator seems to be?

I am listening to the audiobook. It is being narrated in a cheerful voice. I hadn't really considered the narrator's voice versus the Count's actual feelings. But, no, I don't think the Count's feelings match the narrator's voice.

13. The chapters in this section foreshadow the Count attempting suicide. We were left on quite a cliffhanger! What do you think has driven him to this point? As we are getting more of a window into his past, do you have any theories as to why the Count returned to Moscow in the first place? How do you like the Count as a protagonist thus far?

I think the Count's lack of purpose is getting to him. Others are moving on without him. Nina is occupied with school. I also think he is feeling out of place, obsolete in his own time

I feel for the Count and his predicament. So far, though, I have not really connected to the Count. I am curious to find out how the book ends. Especially since the author has teased that the fate of Prince Nicholai will have something to do with the ending of the book.

Viji wrote: "Day 1 Discussion Questions
Section: June 5, 1922 - An Assembly pages: 1 - 76

1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you..."

Your answer for 5 was enlightening. The title does reflect the changing times. When titles are to be abandoned.

Day 1 Discussion Questions

1. Do you have much previous knowledge of Russian history and politics in the early 1900s? How does that affect how you feel at the start of the book?
(Note: Wikipedia states there was a Russian civil war in 1917 followed immediately by a Revolution from 1917 to October 1922 - which is the year our book starts.)

I don't have any knowledge of Russian history in the early 1900's. I did feel a little lost in the beginning. The information you provided is much appreciated!

2. I got a bit of a "Little Princess" vibe when the count was banished to the attic of the hotel. And there is a great section on saying goodbye to people vs. saying goodbye to possessions. "We carry them from place to place, often at considerable expense and inconvenience;...all the while allowing memories to invest them with greater and greater importance....But, of course, a thing is just a thing." What do you think of the possessions he elected to take with him to the attic? If you were in a similar situation, what is one thing you would for sure take with you?

I agree his thoughts on saying goodbye to people versus possessions were eloquent. This was likely the moment he fully realized the impact of his situation. Before this he seemed a bit cavalier at his trial. The things he took had sentimental value, I think. Possessions to remind him of his family members. I did find it funny that he had to get rid of some of his things because his room was too small. I can definitely relate to this. I could not tolerate a cluttered space.

My one thing would not be so sentimental but practical. I would take my iPad. Don't know what I'd do without it! LOL

3. What do you think about the Count and his reading habits? Specifically - how he is struggling with the Essays and how he likes to tilt back his chair. Can you relate to either or both of those?

I think we all have our preferred ways of reading. I like relaxing on my couch with a cup of tea. As far as his struggle with the book of essays, after hearing some of the passages, I would find it too difficult to get through myself! LOL Seriously, though, being in the right mindset is key to enjoying different types of books. I read a variety of genres for this reason. Sometimes I want something light or sometimes a little more serious.

4. The Count has to decide how he will handle his confinement. He thinks of favorite literary characters, and finally decides he will commit to practicalities. What do you think that means, and is there anything he does in this early stage that you particularly admire?

He is trying to make his circumstances a little more bearable, I think. Sometimes little luxuries can make a situation better. For me, I'd buy some Godiva chocolates. :) I don't think this will work in the long haul. We need more than luxuries to live a fulfilling life.

5. Why do you think it is called "A Gentleman in Moscow" instead of "A Count in Moscow"? Just because it sounds better, or do you think there is a reason? Do you find him an appealing character so far?

I am not sure. I know the titles of books are very important, so there is likely a good reason. I will be interested in what others have to say!

I am still on the fence with my feelings for the Count. So far he just seems like an aristocrat without purpose. I usually have trouble connecting with stories about the rich and privileged.

6. Nina (the little girl in yellow) seems to be an important distraction. What is your impression of her so far? Do you think she will be an important character?

I hope she will continue to be part of the story. I enjoy the interaction between the girl and the Count. Humorous and charming. I think she will be good for the Count.

DQs 5 Shift & Epilogue

15. Lib has apologised to nearly every character in the story by the time we get to chapter 5. Why do you think she keeps doing and saying the wrong things repeatedly? What does this say about Lib's attitude and nursing abilities overall?

I felt for Lib. She did not realize what she would be asked to do until she arrived in Ireland. She was definitely out of her element being in a different country and among people with almost overzealous faith. I do think she was a good nurse. Just out of her element.

16. Were you shocked by Anna's confession of incest?

I knew it had to be something big to make Anna stop eating. I knew it had to do with her brother since she prayed all the time for him. I was shocked at how the people around her did not do enough to help her.

17. How did you feel about the adults attempts to divert Anna from her course?

They did not do enough. The parents and priest knew why Anna was fasting but failed her in my mind. Anna was only 11 and did not understand fully what she had to do to repent and get redemption for her and her brother.

18. The budding romance between Lib and Byrne, do you feel it added to or detracted from the story? Was it wholly necessary?

I did not mind the romance. I think it was there to show Lib's growth as a character. Byrne was interesting. Being a journalist, I thought he was just there to get a story any way he could. But in the end he was good for Lib and Anna.

19. Sister Michael seemed, to me, to be the only positive representation of religion and then only really at the end. What is your your assessment of how religion was used and portrayed in The Wonder?

It really wasn't shown in a good light, in my opinion. I did like Sister Michael in the end. She knew what Lib had done with Anna and could see past just being a nurse to actually helping her patient, whatever that took.

20. What did you think about the end of the book?

I liked the end. I wasn't sure if Anna would survive. But happy she did. I laughed at the names chosen for them all, different yet similar to their real names. Perfect for a new start. I also found it funny how all the doctors, priests etc., accepted Lib's story about Anna's death and subsequent fire. Even though they hired Lib because of her rigorous training, they still believed being female made her careless and panicked.

21. Lastly, I thought it curious that both Byrne and Anna decided to keep their Catholicism. Especially, when they had the chance claim to C of E which would've made it easier fo them to disappear. After everything that Anna had been through and the clear fact that she didn't want to die, why do you think she kept her faith? And what do you think Ms Donoghue was trying to say?

Faith was a big part of Anna's life. To big to just abandon. I think Lib helped Anna by finally figuring out a solution for Anna, one that Anna could live with. I think the author was saying that taking things too far, even something good like faith in God, is not a good thing.

DQs 3 Fast & 4 Vigil

7. Dr. Standish recommended they force feed Anna. Lib does not agree. What do you think?

8. We learn that Anna's brother, Patrick, died of a digestive ailment and her parents put Anna in his bed to warm him. He died by morning. What effect would this have on a child, do you think?

9. The potato famine and the idea that fasting and not asking for more is an admirable thing has been mentioned. Could this explain the fascination with a little girl who does not eat? Any other reasons?

10. What are your thoughts about the journalist, William Byrne? Why do you think he was able to recognize Anna was starving when Lib, a nurse, did not?

11. Sister Michael gives her reason for not helping Anna as she is "just a nurse". What do you think of her statement? This statement was echoed by the doctor when Lib tried to alert him to Anna's decline. Do you think Lib should have done things differently?

12. I found all the theories about how people can live without food interesting. A person was actually a changeling, a young girl absorbed menstrual blood, and the evolution to a reptilian physiology. Did you find these interesting too? Are there other aspects of the book you are enjoying?

13. Anna attended a sermon about fornication, took the host from the priest and refused to eat after. Do you think this has something to do with why she won't eat?

14. After finding out how Anna has been fed for months, do you think Anna understood what was happening? Why do you think she refuses this "manna from heaven" now?

1. What are your opinions about the main character Lib Wright? Do you think her treatment of Anna is too harsh?

Lib is definitely a bit distant from Anna. She doesn't even want to tell Anna her first name. Lib is rigid and has lost her faith in God during the war. I wasn't sure in the beginning if she was the right person to watch Anna, given that Anna is so religious.

2. Do you believe Anna is a scam or is she telling the truth? Also are the O'Donnell family and Sister Michael trustworthy?

I don't believe Anna has eaten nothing for 4 months. It's not physically possible. As far as the O'Donnell family, I can't understand how they are not worried about Anna. And instead almost seem proud of Anna's ability to fast and allow people to visit.

3. Religion plays a large part in the story. We learn to know Lib's point of view on religious practices and way of thinking. Do you think that's all it is, Anna fasting due to her religious upbringing or do you think there's more?

I don't think we know the real reason Anna has stopped eating. I find it curious that more attempts were not made to find out "why". To me that is the most important question.

4. Dr. Standish diagnosed Anna with hysteria. Do you believe that's the case? What about Lib's observations of swelling, fluid retention, coloured spots etc on Anna's body?

I think a lot of male doctors preferred to dismiss women's problems this way. But Anna is definitely showing signs of malnutrition.

5. Considering the end of the second chapter, do you think Lib's attitude towards the O'Donnell family will change?

I hope so. In order for her to figure out the truth, she will need to befriend Anna.

6. How do you like the pace and writing style so far? Any thoughts about the setting?

I am enjoying the suspense and mystery of this story. Both Anna and Lib are coming to life for me. I feel for the O'Donnell family and the sparse conditions.

Thanks! This is a good day for me. Looking forward to discussing the book.

DQs The Threshold-Immortal Beloved

- There were many layers to Liesl and the Goblin King. They told each other "who" they really were. What are your final thoughts about Liesl and the Goblin King? Did your feelings change from the beginning to the end?

- What did you like most about the book? Did you not like something about the book?

- What are your thoughts about the ending? Would you have preferred another ending?

- Would you recommend this book? Will you read more by this author?

I just finished the book. WOW. If there are no other volunteers, I can post DQs for The Threshold-Immortal Beloved tonight.

I am running behind on the book! I haven't seen more DQs posted, so I jotted a few down very quickly for Consecration-Come Out To Play. So we can keep the discussion going.

DQs Consecration-Come Out To Play

21. What did you think of the wedding ceremony?

22. How did you feel about why the Goblin King rejected Liesl on their wedding night? Have your feelings for him changed at all?

23. The first bride lived and escaped the Underground! How do you think this happened?

24. Liesl has had her confidence shattered at a young age. In her mind, she is not pretty enough or talented enough. How can she get her confidence back? (I know this question is pretty deep. Apologies! LOL But It is an important lesson Liesl has to learn, I think.)

6. He plays well, your brother.
This is how the Goblin King chooses to address her first. Seems fit, since music is the thing that makes her soul shine and made him interested in her. Don't you agree?

Yes. I am really enjoying the passion for music part of the story. I love music as well and I guess I can relate to this passion. I cannot play an instrument, sing or compose, but always wish I could!

7. The best game in the world. One where I take something you love and hide it. If you don't come find it, it's mine to keep
If Liesl is the real target, why take her sister instead? To make her realize how wrong she chose? To make her regret not to answer his calling? Or just because it's a game and he can't help it?

I think it was a combination of several reasons. I do think he was angry that she did not choose him. So he gave her the life Liesl thought she wanted to teach her a lesson. As the saying goes, be careful what you wish for because you just might get it!

8. None of us understand what you've been talking about. Who, my dear, is Käthe?
Does Liesl really thing she can outplay the Goblin King? Or is she that naive? Or that trustful?

I don't think at this point she realizes what has happened and the impact it will have.

9. You may prefer the pretty lie to the ugly truth
When I first read this line, I thought she was about to know some ugly truth about the people she loved. But, I guess that was too easy. Instead he gave her the life her heart desired all those years. Would the illusion hold, if she chose to forget about her sister? Or would she lose everything? Were you surprised to realize Constance also wished to have the Goblin King's attention?

I am glad Liesl did not decide to live the lie. I'm sure it was tempting. But I do think she would have lost something of herself. This is the lesson she needed to learn.

10. I felt a bit sad with Joseph's departure... because it was like a dream being broken. Their last play together was heartbreaking, like the illusion caused her younger brother not to be the same. Am I wrong?

Definitely the magic was gone for them. Yes, it was sad.

11. I would have to sacrifice my music
My brain made me think of the scene from the Little Mermaid where Ariel loses her voice.. I was expecting her to lose her ability to create music, I guess setting her compositions on fire and play till the world no longer is also works. What do you thing?

Yes. The Goblin King is more complex than to just take Liesl's ability to compose away from her. He knows her weakness is thinking of others before herself. So this scenario would be worse.

12. All the men looked like Hans; all the women looked like Käthe
That... sounds creepy. I'm still confused about the meaning behind. The whole ball seems like something from a fairy tale.. from the bad version of fairies. The ones that steal children on their sleep and made bargains humans cannot possible win, just because they are bored. And the food was... gross... I also thought humans could not consume fae food or drink to be able to return to their world?

I hav not read a lot about goblins or fairies, but I do think the description of the ball was creepy and done well.

13. I do not know what to call him, but I cry out his name.
My fingers reach, but he is gone.
What do you think it will happen next? How close are they to the full moon? What will be the next battle?

I have read the next section so I won't say more.