Gwen|| Bookish Blondie’s Comments (group member since Jan 24, 2022)

Gwen|| Bookish Blondie’s comments from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.

Done!

Legends and Lattes and a Second Chance Road trip for Christmas are already showing up as being on my shelf and I added summer ever after

I also added some books that can cover thrillers and series.

I was planning on continuing my series regardless, so we can use them in the regular challenge if they don't need to used for the mini, but they'll work if we do need them.

ilovebakedgoods (Teresa) wrote: "Shelter books update:

I'm still reading my books, but since it's 2 days away, just wanted to say that while I *should* finish my books, just in case I cannot, if anyone wants to read a book #7, 6,..."

I got you! I'm reading a series that I'm finishing up from a previous challenge that I can easily get done in the next two days.

I added it to the spreadsheet.

Are there any tasks for the mini that still need to be covered?

So sorry Christina.

My books should all be in now

I’ll take the literary fiction one

9. We keep hearing how people smell. Luzia of orange blossoms, Perez of plums and amber. Why do you think the author keeps mentioning this? Do the smells mean more than just an odor?
The recurring mention of how characters smell in the narrative serves to do more than just describe an odor; it adds layers of symbolic meaning and sensory immersion to the story. Smells often evoke strong memories and emotions, grounding characters in their cultural and personal identities. For instance, Luzia's scent of orange blossoms might symbolize purity, renewal, or a connection to her heritage, while Perez's smell of plums and amber could suggest warmth, richness, or an underlying complexity to his character. These olfactory details help to create a vivid and immersive world, allowing readers to connect more deeply with the characters and their experiences. Additionally, these scents can act as metaphors for the characters' traits, histories, and roles within the story, enriching the narrative and offering subtle insights into their personalities and backgrounds.

10. We are over halfway through the book. What has been your favorite part/scene/person/line so far?
The introduction of Santángel has been my favorite part of the book. I really enjoyed getting to know him and the addition of his magic into the mix.
11. Valentina and Marius seem to be rekindling their marriage, finding love where there wasn't before. Why do you think the author is adding that part of the story when she could have left it out?
I think it's kind of too early to claim that an entire storyline could be cut from the book. I still don't know that I like Valentia all that much, but I am okay with Max. I guess if he's happy, I'm not unhappy.

11. Now we are over halfway and know more of Luzia, the competition and this world. Why do you think the publisher and possibly the author chose this cover over any other possibilities? If you could remake the cover, what would you want it to look like?
To be honest, most publishers pick covers that are trending popular and have little to do with the actual content of the book. It's now about cute covers to draw readers in. So, it's whatever. I don't actually care.

5. Luzia’s refranes combine elements from diverse cultural traditions, creating a powerful form of magic tied to her Jewish heritage. Does the portrayal of Luzia’s magic suggest that blending different cultural traditions enhances personal power and resistance, or does it emphasize the delicate balance and possible loss of identity in such a blend?
The portrayal of Luzia’s magic, which combines elements from diverse cultural traditions and is tied to her Jewish heritage, suggests a dual narrative. On one hand, it emphasizes how blending different cultural traditions can enhance personal power and resistance, making Luzia's magic more versatile and potent. On the other hand, it also highlights the delicate balance required to maintain one’s identity amidst such blending. The risk of losing a sense of self or diluting one's heritage is ever-present, but Luzia’s ability to navigate and balance these influences showcases resilience and adaptability.
6. Characters like Valentina and Hualit demonstrate varying levels of ambition and moral compromise on their paths to security and success. Is pursuit of personal safety and financial security a justifiable reason for ethical compromises, or should ambition be tempered with moral integrity?
The pursuit of personal safety and financial security often drives individuals to make ethical compromises, as seen with characters like Valentina and Hualit. While some argue that such compromises are justifiable, especially in environments where survival is at stake and systemic injustices prevail, it's essential to consider the long-term consequences of these actions on one's character and society. Ambition untempered by moral integrity can lead to a loss of self-respect and trust, fostering a culture of corruption and exploitation. Therefore, while the necessity of compromising for security can be understood, it should ideally be balanced with a commitment to ethical principles to ensure that personal gains do not come at the expense of one's values or the well-being of others.

7. Have you done other reading set in late-16th-century Spain? If not, are you having any problems following the political intrigues and social mores? What’s your favorite time period to read for historical fiction?
Yes, I have done other reading set in late-16th-century Spain, such as "The Fencing Master" by Arturo Pérez-Reverte. This book provided a rich depiction of the political and social complexities of the time, which has helped me understand the intrigues and mores of the period better. I particularly enjoy historical fiction from the Renaissance era, as it was a time of immense cultural, scientific, and political transformation. This period offers a fascinating backdrop for stories that blend historical accuracy with compelling narratives.
8. What do you make of Santángel? At one point we get the line, “And Santángel would be free.” Free from what, do you think?
Santángel's character, who appears to be a genie or djinn, brings an intriguing layer of mysticism to the story. The line "And Santángel would be free" suggests a longing for liberation from the constraints and servitude typically imposed on such beings. In many mythologies, djinn are bound to serve masters or fulfill specific roles against their will, and their ultimate desire is often to gain freedom from these bindings. For Santángel, freedom likely means breaking away from the control of his master or the magical constraints that limit his autonomy, allowing him to live according to his own desires and purposes. This quest for freedom can also symbolize a broader theme of liberation and self-determination within the narrative.

Nosy bonus question. Are you reading this book for historical fiction, for fantasy, for romance, and/or for DQ points for your BG team? 😉

DQ points

1- Although Valentia feels shame in her actions to confront Luzia and her magic she still threatens her to use it at her dinner party. What were your thoughts and do you feel bad for Valentia and her desperation?
Valentia did it to herself. She could choose a better life for herself and she refuses. So she gets no sympathy from me, whatsoever.

2-Valentia did not want Luzia to leave the house and gave her extra chores. Why do you think Valentia did not want Luzia to leave the house?

Because she's a selfish cow only looking out for what she wants.
3-How did using music and song to make Luzia magic work make you feel or think of.
I think it's an interesting way to tie them to the magic itself and is an interesting dynamic.
4- Don Victor(De Paredes) shows up at Casa Ordobos to make sure Luzia has a room with and even hints at having her join him if not. Why do you think having Luzia in her own room benefits either of them?

He's sure to play a foil to Valentia, but he's also necessary to drive the plot forward for Luzia.

Fixed

I’m finally getting some books from my vacation logged.

Added

Now that I’m back I’ll be reading 3-4 books a day again.

Okay. I'm working on one more classic that I want to finish but I added some for the mini to work on.

I have returned. What still needs to be done for the next mini?

My last battle book for the round is done.

Audrey Jane wrote: "Same here, massive thanks team for picking up mediocre books for the team !
I've read lots of drivel during my first team challenges when joining GR and it has been one of the reasons for my readi..."

I just write snarky reviews to make myself feel better