Mirliz’s Comments (group member since Dec 05, 2013)

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

@Steven: I didn't know Gaiman had said that. In that case I'm pretty certain Hunter is one of them. Not sure about the other one though.

Chapters 10 - 12

25) So if I have it right, Doors family may have been from Atlantis? Or was it just the wine?

I guess her ancestors could have been from Atlantis? They could have brought the wine as souvenirs from a trip, but that's less likely I think.

26) Pavarthy, you called it when you asked, "Does this make Richard special?" It appears he is special. At least special enough to pass a test many don't survive. Serpentine called him Door's hero. Interesting.

Well, he does have hero qualities, even though he's not the typical hero in my eyes.

27) I was wrong about Marquis de Carrabas. He is not the one who hired the bad guys. Did you notice the reference to the fairy tale? He must have picked his name from the fairy tale Puss n Boots. I wish I could remember the character better from the story.

Sadly I don't know that story so I didn't notice the reference.

29) Are Door and Richard going to become romantically involved? I didn't thing this story would have a romance, but now I'm wondering.

I'm not so sure.

30) Mr. Croup is displaying serpent type traits.

He is. Scary.

32) Who is the Old Bailey exactly? So the box the marquis de carabas gave to the Old Bailey lets him know when he's in trouble?

I'm very curious about the Old Bailey. I'd like to know much more about him.

33) The time line question is finally answered: "There are little pockets of old time in London, where things and places stay the same, like bubbles in amber," she explained. "There's a lot of time in London, and it has to go somewhere--it doesn't all get used up at once.

I like that idea of time.

34) What did you think of the London Fog?

I didn't know it had happened in reality, that's terrible.

35) Why do you think Richard survived the Ordeal? Is it because he's so easy going or just not very guilible?

I agree on the theory that he has been such a sad person, and has overcome those kinds of feelings before.

36) What did you think of the Black Friars and their tests?

The Black Friars seem okay. Their tests also seem fair. There was a task for each of them that they had the possibility to pass.

37) Parvathy asked in regards to the old lady at the beginning of the book, "Wonder why she thought Richard was homeless at first even though he just came out of the party and was dressed for it." I thought it was because they said he looked like he had a rumpled just gotten out of bed look to him, however, after this scene I think perhaps she foresaw more than I gave her credit for.

I actually didn't think much about this. But yeah, maybe she knew something about London Below or what would happen to him. I don't know.


Chapters 13 - 16

38) Did anyone guess Hunter betrayed them?

I didn't guess that, so I was surprised. Actually I had forgotten that 'There is one traitor among you' part.

39)Who would have pegged the angel to be such a scoundrel? Gah! I should have figured he'd be a fallen angel, or at least I'm assuming he's fallen. Is he trying to free himself?

Curious to know. And I have no idea what he's up to.

40) Do you suppose that memory about the lost journal had something to do with why there was a request for Door seek out the assistance of Islington? Could the Angel have written that in himself? Why did he at first want Door dead or did he?

There is a possibility that Islington wrote that entry himself in some way. And I don't think he wanted Door dead even in the beginning - I think that was a way of having Vandemar and Croup getting interested in taking the job.

42) I don't know about anyone else but I thought it strange that bodies were being sold at the floating market by the sewer folk.

Nothing seems too strange for my any longer...

45) What did you think of the velvet lady? Were you surprised the Marquis saved Richard?

I thought she was suspicious from the very beginning, so I wasn't surprised at what she did. And I wasn't surprised the Marquis saved Richard either, since I thought it was about time that he caught up with them.

46) Predictions as to what will happen at the end? Will Richard get his life back? Will Door avenge her family? Will Richard and Jessica be reunited?

Oh I'm so bad at predictions! I think Richard will get his life back. I think Door will avenge her family. I have no idea about Richard and Jessica.
Come to think of it, I'm not that sure actually that Richard will get his life back.

Prologue - Chapter 6

1. Oh my! I am completely suckered into this book already. So much action, intrigue, humour, unlikely hero.... What are your initial impressions?

My first impressions after this first part is, I like the way it is written and the basic concept of the story is intriguing and interesting. But I'm not yet sure that I will like the action parts of it. I mean, I don't mind reading about fighting and stuff. It's just that usually I read epic fantasy set in a medieval setting, and fighting with modern weapons like guns and bombs isn't usually something I like. But I will overlook that for a while and definitely give the book a chance, since I like it in general.

2. The way the book began I was expecting Steelheart to be a hero. I really felt that desperation and disappointment of David and his father. Were you surprised too, or unlike me have you read the book synopsis?!

I did read the book synopsis - a long time ago, so I have forgotten all of it already. However I still wasn't surprised, since that was a logical twist to create a nice conflict and story.

3. So Calamity started shining one year before the Epics appeared. Are they humans that were given 'powers', or are they some kind of alien? Or does it matter?

That's something I haven't really thought about yet. I just assumed they were humans that were given powers somehow, but well... I guess they could be aliens?

4. High Epics are hard to kill, but they managed to get Fortuity. Thoughts on these scenes chasing that Epic?

It's very well-written, and I like that every Epic has a different weakness or flaw that they have to find out to be able to kill them.

5. Megan seems pretty badd-a. Will she be a love interest for David? ;)

She probably will be.

6.David tells the Prof that the Reckoners are "only an annoyance". Ah! Is that a bad move or will it get him recruited?

I would say, partially a bad move since that gets him left behind definitely. But at the same time he is a strong character who pursues his goals and has strong opinions, and I think they will realize how good he would be to have on the team.

Chapter 48 - 51
(view spoiler)[1) Did you expect Jon to keep his role in Samwell’s assignment a secret?

Yes, I did expect that. He didn't seem like he wanted any glory for thinking about Sam that much, and maybe he just didn't want to have Sam feeling like he would owe Jon for the rest of his life or something...

2) Do you think Samwell’s taking his vows with Jon before the heart tree will strengthen their friendship?

I don't know, maybe. But I can't see why that specific choice would strengthen it. I think they will become closer friends either way.

3) If the reason behind Mormont assigning him to the stewards was as Samwell stated, why was Ser Alliser smiling?

Maybe because Ser Alliser actually doesn't know the real reason behind that decision, and is just happy to see Jon disappointed for not becoming a ranger as he wanted? Let's see who is smiling in the end...

4) Do you feel Lord Stark should have said something about Prince Joffrey’s paternity when he called the small council together?

Yes, I think that would have been wise of him.

5) Ohhhhh…Litterfinger is truly a viperous snake! Did this surprise you? What are your thoughts about Janos Slynt? Will there be repercussions for Ser Barristan, the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, for his slight hesitation?

It didn't surprise me in the slightest. I was just sad to see that Eddard did fall into his trap eventually.

6) Did Arya learn enough from Syrio to survive and make it back to Winterfell? Will she be reunited with her direwolf on the way home?

She has certainly learned a lot, and it will help her a great deal. Hopefully all the way back to Winterfell. And I hope she will be reunited with Nymeria.

7) Sansa! Will she ever get a clue? Can you see her parroting reflected in what other courtiers say in from of Queen Cersei? Where you as appalled as I was that she had revealed their planned departure to Queen Cersei?

When I read that she had told Cersei about their departure, I just felt like banging her head into something, hopefully getting rid of some stupidity and making space for some sense. I can't believe how selfish and childish she is - and how easy to fool! Ugh! (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 52 - 55
(view spoiler)[1. Did anyone expect the dead men to come back to life? I did. Does that mean I've seen too many horror movies?

Uh, yeah. That was too obvious it would happen. It was still scary though.

2. What did you think the hand going down the throat was looking for - soul or heart? CREEPY!

I didn't want to think about that! I just wanted to keep on reading to leave those monsters behind.

3. Did they say if anyone besides Jon survived? There was another zombie that he didn't deal with. Wonder what happened to him...but do I really want to know???????

It didn't say, but I do want to know, quickly. Sometimes I hate the cliffhangers in this book! Having to read about so many other characters before getting to know "what happened next" will drive me nuts some day, lol!

4. Was anyone surprised that so much time had passed? I didn't think it'd been a full year.

I was a little surprised at first but then I realized it made sense, what with all the travelling and Bran getting so healthy and strong again, and Jon getting to take his vows. Nothing of that would happen in the blink of an eye.

5. Anyone else thinking Catelyn is a bad mom? Why is she not going home to her two youngest kids? I understand her brother's in trouble and her father is dying, but she has kids. I can't fathom being away from my kids that long.

I guess she thinks that they are safe where they are, and she better help out with getting rid of the danger that could come threatening them later on if she doesn't do anything about it.

6. Interesting that Rob's first reaction to Sansa's letter was "What's wrong with that girl." and not "They must have forced her to write this." What do you think?

I think it's sad he doesn't know his sister well enough to recognize if she has written the letter on her own or if it's been dictated for her. Still, he knows how selfish she is and obsessed with beauty and the court and all that, so I can't really blame him.

7. Bran's statement about Sansa loosing her Wolf makes me wonder how close those wolves are tied to the children. Seems like there could be another story just about that.

I definitely think there's some special bond between the children and their wolves. That's why I hope so badly that Arya will be reunited with hers now. They seem to be extraordinarily strong and able to protect their children.

8. Speaking of Bran, I feel so bad he can't be healed. I kept hoping he could. He's struggling so much with what he can do and what he would have been able to do. Any thoughts?

I do feel sad for him. Still, I hope he will realize how strong his mind is (or could be), and that there are things he can do and think about that others can't. Hopefully he will find his place in the world before long and realize that he can make a difference too, even though he's not a knight.

9. Looks like raising the banners was a good choice on Robb's part. I still don't like him going to war.

I don't like that either, but I kind of agree that he didn't really have a choice. Yes, he could have sent someone else to command the army, but he is the heir and needs to earn the respect of the men around him. They need to see him as a man, not a boy, and sadly I think this is one of few good ways to achieve that.

10. So there is a dilemma - is getting the father more important than trying to defeat the Others. Which do you think they should have done first?

Getting Eddard is what's more important right at this moment. That's the immediate problem. However, I think the Others will become a real threat before long, and probably they will not be able to get to the North in time to stop them from becoming a danger to the south side of the Wall.

11. Dany and her husband were almost poisoned. Did you think it odd that Ser Jorah thought the wine was tainted? Could he have set it up to persuade Kahl Drago to wage war on the Seven Kingdoms?

I...hadn't thought about that possibility. But of course it's plausible. Or as Renee said - he could have received that letter and been suspicious of others getting the same message and trying to go through with it.

12. Do you think that Dany and the Starks might become allies?

Oooh, now that would be something! But then she would have to convince Eddard that she's not evil as her father, and she would have to forgive what he was part of. And he would have to convince her that he wasn't part of the plan to kill her and her baby. Hm, tricky... (hide spoiler)]

Bizarre, Crazy, Silly, & Unique Holidays
Duration: 1.1.2014 - 12.31.2014
Level: Two Timer (13-24 books)

Link to my post
Completed: 10/24

✔ January 6, Cuddle Up Day: A Walk to Remember; by Nicholas Sparks [1/29] ♥♥♥♥♥
✔ January 13, Make Your Dream Come True Day: The Casual Vacancy; by J.K. Rowling [11/26] ♥♥♥
✔ February 22, Walking the Dog Day: A Long Winter; by Colm Tóibín [2/5] ♥♥
☆ February 28, Floral Design Day:
✔ March 5, Multiple Personality Day: Rebecca; by Daphne du Maurier [5/23] ♥♥♥
✔ March 17, Saint Patrick's Day: Star of the Sea; by Joseph O'Connor [7/10] ♥♥♥
☆ April 2, Children's Book Day:
☆ April 23, Take A Chance Day:
☆ May 4, Bird Day:
✔ May 17, Armed Forces Day: Stridens skönhet och sorg; by Peter Englund [2/18] ♥♥♥
✔ June 8, Best Friends Day: Springa med åror; by Cilla Naumann [3/26] ♥♥
✔ June 23, National Pink Day: The Stepmother's Diary; by Fay Weldon [12/26] ♥♥♥
☆ July 3, Stay Out of the Sun Day:
☆ July 20, Moon Day:
☆ August 22, Be An Angel Day:
✔ August 26, Women's Equality Day: The Love Knot; by Elizabeth Chadwick [7/18] ♥♥♥♥
☆ September 3, Skyscraper Day:
☆ September 13, Positive Thinking Day:
☆ October 3, World Smile Day:
☆ October 17, Wear Something Gaudy Day:
☆ November 18, Occult Day:
☆ November 22, National Adoption Day:
☆ December 13, Violin Day:
✔ December 31, Make Up Your Mind Day: Things I Want My Daughters to Know; by Elizabeth Noble [3/25] ♥♥

It feels as if I'm taking part in pretty much every challenge here... but this one sounds much too fun to skip!

Bizarre, Crazy, Silly, & Unique Holidays
Duration: January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014
Level: Two Timer (13-24 books)

Completed: 10/24

✔ January 6, Cuddle Up Day: A Walk to Remember; by Nicholas Sparks [1/29] ♥♥♥♥♥
✔ January 13, Make Your Dream Come True Day: The Casual Vacancy; by J.K. Rowling [11/26] ♥♥♥
✔ February 22, Walking the Dog Day: A Long Winter; by Colm Tóibín [2/5] ♥♥
☆ February 28, Floral Design Day:
✔ March 5, Multiple Personality Day: Rebecca; by Daphne du Maurier [5/23] ♥♥♥
✔ March 17, Saint Patrick's Day: Star of the Sea; by Joseph O'Connor [7/10] ♥♥♥
☆ April 2, Children's Book Day:
☆ April 23, Take A Chance Day:
☆ May 4, Bird Day:
✔ May 17, Armed Forces Day: Stridens skönhet och sorg; by Peter Englund [2/18] ♥♥♥
✔ June 8, Best Friends Day: Springa med åror; by Cilla Naumann [3/26] ♥♥
✔ June 23, National Pink Day: The Stepmother's Diary; by Fay Weldon [12/26] ♥♥♥
☆ July 3, Stay Out of the Sun Day:
☆ July 20, Moon Day:
☆ August 22, Be An Angel Day:
✔ August 26, Women's Equality Day: The Love Knot; by Elizabeth Chadwick [7/18] ♥♥♥♥
☆ September 3, Skyscraper Day:
☆ September 13, Positive Thinking Day:
☆ October 3, World Smile Day:
☆ October 17, Wear Something Gaudy Day:
☆ November 18, Occult Day:
☆ November 22, National Adoption Day:
☆ December 13, Violin Day:
✔ December 31, Make Up Your Mind Day: Things I Want My Daughters to Know; by Elizabeth Noble [3/25] ♥♥

I realized I forgot to answer the first question yesterday, so I edited my last post.

@Karen: I'm starting to enjoy it now and then. There's a certain kind of humour in it that pops out on every few pages, and makes me giggle. So, well, it's growing on me. :)

-------

17) Me too, never imagined the train car to be the destination. But it definitely opens up many possibilities for other places and place names around London. Hm.
The tentacled thing in the gap was...creepy. I just hope there aren't unseen monsters like this in our big cities in reality. ;) But that would explain unexplainable falls onto the rails, wouldn't it?

18) Apparently so. Well the assassin part was already clear to me. But that they were so old..? The question I have is, are they really so old that they lived during all those events, or are they just old but not that old, and can travel through time..?

19) Well, it could be that it is forgotten, couldn't it?

20) I have a distinct guess at what the creature is, and that Richard will recognize it. But what part it will play in the rest of the story.. no clue.

21) Alive, or coming back from the dead, if she is in fact dead. I'm not sure what to make of what the rat said. In a way, I hope she is dead but has the possibility to be brought back to life, because I can't imagine what awful things she could be experiencing if she is still alive but captured in the night and the nightmares.

22) I definitely did not see that one coming! Now this should get interesting...

23) I remembered about her exhibition, but I had forgotten that it would be about angels. That scene had me chuckling as well.

24) Noticed it, suspected it. I was pleased to get a term put to what she's doing, them being "openers", that it is a Talent. I wonder what other Talents there are among the people below London?

25) Maybe, if you have been very close to a person that disappears into the world below London, you will still be vaguely aware of him if he's around? Like, if there's a very strong bond between you, maybe that bond can survive even though you can't remember why that person seems familiar?

I'm finally getting into this book, I think. This story is very different from what I usually read, but I'm starting to appreciate the way it is written and the small funny passages that are put into it.

7) I think it's an interesting angle. There are "unseen" people in most cities, even in a small city like the one closest to where I live there are many homeless people or drunks that people just avoid or turn a blind eye to, pretend not to see. But here, it's taken one step further, making these unseen people unseen for real. I have to admit that I like that approach.

8) I have no idea what Mr. Croup and Mr. Vandemar are. I just know they scare me - a lot! I hope I never meet such creepy characters in reality!

9) I actually didn't notice, but... Well, that's a good observation.

10) I thought it was an interesting house/place. The thought of being able to pull together existing rooms, sort of preserving them in another dimension or whatever it is, even while the original of the room ceases to exist... That is indeed an intriguing thought. But I have no idea of how an outsider was able to enter the house.

11) Oh I didn't just giggle, I was laughing my head off (not literally). I love her! That is one great character, probably the first character in this book that I have actually started to like, to be honest.

12) I don't know. I mean, I think he is a bit suspicious and is up to something, but whether it is something good or something bad I have no clue.

13) I felt a bit sad for her, and it also got me thinking of what other terrible things exist in this other world. And I was curious when I read that about Hunter. How was she saving him? From what? Were there physical things she could defend him from, or can she somehow defend him from not-physical things too?
And I knew I recognized that part. I had to go back and read about that dream again, and now I'm trying to figure out the connection between that dream and what he experienced on the bridge...

14) The floating market was...interesting. Parts of it were fascinating, parts of it appalling. I wouldn't want to visit it myself though.

15) My guess is that pigeons are also important. But I wonder why rats are. Though they are very intelligent creatures, so I can see why they play this part in the story - maybe.

16) Yes, definitely interesting. And Richard is finally getting insane. I think I would too if I were in his situation. Now maybe he will start becoming a more interesting character? Can't really say I like him yet.

Page Challenge
Duration: 1.1.2014 - 12.31.2014
Progress: 11,103/35,000

Link to my last post

Monthly summary
January: 3,923
February: 1,902
March: 961
April: 113
May: 733
June: 726
July: 1,945
August: 0
September: 0
October: 295
November: 505
December: 294

I could as well join this too for next year.

Back in high school I once managed to read somewhere around 33,000 pages in little less than half a year during a reading contest at the school library. I have been reading a lot less in the past few years, but I will set my goal for 2014 at 35,000 pages.

Page Challenge
Duration: January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014

I'm sorry to be a little late answering the first questions. Will get to the second set of questions later today.

1) I also think it was an unusual name, but it certainly fits her. There's something she does regarding doors - she does seem to be able to open locked ones and create new ones. I'm curious to know how she does it, what kind of magic is involved.

2) As soon as Door appeared in the story I understood that she would be related to what that old woman had said about doors. Then when we got her name I just laughed because I thought it was so clever. If Richard hadn't helped Door, his life wouldn't have changed.

3) My first impression is that he's a very nice guy, nice and helpful. He couldn't just leave Door and that shows just how nice he is. But I still can't make me feel for him yet. I don't know why, maybe because he feels kind of... like a go-with-the-flow kind of guy? And a bit weak. I hope his character will start to feel stronger later on. I don't mean that he has to turn into a tough guy, just that I want his character to make a stronger impression on me.

4) This is really intriguing. I can't wait to learn how suddenly he can't be seen, and how he seems not to exist at all. But then some people do see and hear him. This was what finally hooked me and made me want to read on.

5) I think she knew, but my guess is she didn't say anything because she was in a hurry. She knew she had to go at once to be able to escape and save herself, and if she told him anything he would keep her with more and more questions and comments and so on. If that was the case I understand her, but still think it was bad of her to say nothing.

6) This is the first Gaiman story that I read. I have said to myself for years that I should read Gaiman, and that's why I decided to jump on this buddy read. So far I haven't been all captured by this story, but I'll keep at it and see where it goes.

Alright, I've decided to join you in reading this one too. It sounds interesting!

Chapters 40 - 43
(view spoiler)[1. I now suspect Littlefinger is one of the men Ayra saw talking in the secret passage of the castle. His beard is pointy, and they talked about him having rings (page 440). Anyone else think so? Still unsure of his motives. Tyrion did say Littlefinger was out for Littlefinger. Maybe it's all for personal gain? Any thoughts?

He may be one of those men, yes. As far as I'm concerned, he only cares about himself and would do anything to get to where he wants to. Including switching sides whenever it suits him, or even playing both sides at once. He's clever, but in a scary way.

2. I agree that Lysa is a bad influence on her son and he should be fostered. She seems slightly unbalanced. Anyone agree or disagree? She seems consumed by hate. I'm suspecting something more happened than just her husband being poisoned. Any ideas?

It's possible something else also happened, but not necessarily. I think losing your children until you've only got one left, and then losing your husband would be enough to drive you insane (like she seems to have become) if your mind is just a little weak. I feel bad for her son, though, he would be better off being fostered than being overprotected and fussed over by his mother.

3. Loved that Jon tried to convince them to use Sam in another capacity and stop the torture of his training. Do you think they'll take his advice? I kept hoping he'd go home.

I also loved that he did that! And I sincerely hope they will do as he asks. I like Jon more and more, it seems like he cares so much for others.

4. Tyrion's story of his first wife was shocking and sad. Do you think she really was a whore or do you think they would do that to her because she was undesirable for a wife of a Lannister? I kept struggling between the two scenarios. I'm guessing she was hired.

Oh, I hadn't thought about the second possibility. But I still think it was the first scenario, that she indeed was hired. It's a very sad story and I felt so bad for him.

5. Tyrion is as smart as a whip. Did you think he'd be able to talk his way out of being enslaved? I guess he knows what drives people, but you also have to have some finesse in order to accomplish a change in thought.

His words easily put him in danger, but he talks himself out of danger just as easily. I believe he could talk himself out of pretty much any situation!

6. I guess a medieval type tale isn't complete unless the villagers are pillaged? What do you think about all the chaos associate with the Lannisters? Do you believe it is the dastardly deeds of Jamie and his Motley crew?

It's a possibility, of course. But there are so many plotting characters around, I don't know quite what to believe at this point. (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 44 - 47
(view spoiler)[1) Does Septa Mordane have reason to be upset that Lord Baelish/Littlefinger overheard what Sansa said about her father’s decision regarding Ser Loras? (BTW, I think Lisarenee is right; he’s a little creepy now, stroking her face like that; do you? Though I did like what he said, “Life is not a song, sweetling.”) Comments.

I don't know, I mean the more things and gossip he knows, the more he can meddle in things. So in a way, maybe she's right to get upset.

2) Seems like Sansa has fully succumbed to revisionist history and also a bit of arrogance. Do you think she will make a good queen? What did you think of her dreaming of Lady.

I don't think she would be a good queen at all. She is way too shallow - all she cares about is how everyone looks and dresses and behaves. She lives in a world of dreams where you can only be good if you are handsome and beautiful, and if you don't look good, then you aren't a good person either. And she just wants to enjoy herself, enjoy "the good life". No, she wouldn't be a good queen, not unless she changes.

3) Interesting that Sansa brought clarity to Lord Stark by seeing Prince Joffrey by his true sigil. Still, now that her direwolf is dead, do you see her as more than just an observer? Or just someone unprotected?

I do see her as someone unprotected, actually. All her siblings still have their wolves, and they have been saved by them. Now if Sansa would get in trouble, Lady isn't there to save her. Still, I can't help blaming Sansa somewhat for what happened, since she didn't tell the truth about what happened that day.

4) Where you surprised Lord Stark desired to confront Queen Cersei with her sins b/f speaking with King Robert? What of his choice of location; did that have any impact on her speaking the truth? It didn’t seem to affect her propositioning him. Comments.

Surprised, yes. I don't see why he wants to reveal how much he knows and put himself and his family at more risk. But I do believe he chose a good place for them to talk about it.

5) Did the horse heart eating gross you out as much as it did me (which was a lot!)? Were you ever in doubt of her keeping it down? Does the dosh khaleen’s prophesy reassure you of the safety of Dany’s baby? Were you surprise that Dany and Drogo made love in front of witnesses? Does this make her more Dothraki?

It didn't gross me out as much as I thought it would. I think she has become much more accepted by the Dothraki by now, because she makes such an effort to follow their traditions and learn their ways. I believe they respect her for that. As for the prophecy, I don't put my trust to prophecies. I don't think the baby is automatically safe just because there's a prophecy.

6) Were you worried about Dany and her baby when Viserys threatened her with his sword? Were you surprised with his "crown of gold"?

I wasn't that worried, just a little bit. I knew the Dothraki would protect her, I was just afraid Viserys would do something before the Dothraki could reach him. The crown of gold was a fitting way for him to go. I never liked him and he deserved what he got and more.

7) Oh, man! I thought when Lyanna was saying “Promise me, Ned,” in his dream we were finally going to get a few answers or clues as to Jon Snow’s paternity. Where are you on this speculation?

Where I am? I'm totally lost. I want to know what Lyanna meant, and I want to know more about Jon, and I want to know more about Ned's past. I'm getting way too curious!

8) What were your observations and conclusions about King Robert's fight with the boar?

I felt like it was too good timing, and it felt set-up. Robert is easy to fool and easy to trick into traps. It wouldn't surprise me if this was indeed a murder in disguise. Now I'm worried about Ned and the rest of them.

9) Do you think Ned should have told Robert about the parentage of Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen? Do you think his decision a wise one?

I would have liked Robert to know the truth, but I still think Ned made the right decision not to tell him in this situation. If I had a dying friend I would probably do the same - let him die with peace in his mind, instead of filling him with anger and sorrow.

10) Do you think Ned’s letter will reach Lord Stannis? If so, any idea what will happen?

I have no idea. I wouldn't be surprised if the letter didn't reach him, that would just make the story even more complicated and uncertain.

11) What do you think of Litterfinger’s advice? Does this make you doubt it was him that Arya overheard? Was he just testing Lord Stark’s resolve? Or is he just keeping his finger in every pie and/or stirring the soup with it?

I still believe he only cares for himself and gladly joins forces with whoever allows him to gain the most. I would gladly not see much of him at all... He creeps me out. (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 32 - 35
(view spoiler)[1. Found all of Ayra's training to be interesting and fun. Were you surprised her father did not believe what she heard even after he found out Daenery's was pregnant?

Not as much surprised as disappointed. As much as he loves her and does for her, I hoped he would at least listen to her and not just brush her off like that. I wish he realizes it before it's too late.

2. Who do you think the two men were? I thought the one might be the Hound and the other might be Tywin, the Queen's father. He's still alive, right?

Ah, I'm so bad at guessing who-is-he games... I have no idea who the men were.

3. Did you agree with Eddard declining the office of the King's Hand?

Half-half. I understand him wanting to get out of there, he is needed back at home. But at the same time, it is good to have him there as the King's Hand, having the possibility to look for answers more easily, even though he is in danger at the same time.

4. Do you think Catelyn was wrong for going to see her sister? Why do you think she didn't travel back the same way she came?

I think it was a clever way to escape anyone following her, and I think she needs to meet her sister in person again. At first I thought it was a good idea, but when I saw the reaction that met her, I'm afraid there will be a lot of drama...

5. What is with going to see all the King's illegitimate children? I still can't figure this one out. Though I'm disliking Robert more and more.

These children are some important parts of the puzzle, but that's all I get. I don't get why or in what way, but I'm curious to know.

6. Gah! More death. Were you surprised that Jamie didn't kill Eddard? I think we'll see a lot more bloodshed before the book is done.

No. Eddard is still too close to the king. Killing him openly like that would be too risky. (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 36 - 39
(view spoiler)[1. How's your perception of Dothrakis? What do you think of them as a civilization?

I kind of like them actually. Yes, they are barbaric and have some strange ways, but on the other hand they have a strong sense of what's right and wrong, and how things should be done - according to their customs.

2. Do you think Robb is correct in agreeing with Greyjoy's decision to call the banners? Do you think the Starks (well, some of them) can trust Greyjoy?

I hadn't made up my mind about Greyjoy before. I still haven't quite made it up yet, but I feel a bit nervous when it comes to him. I want to be able to trust him, but I'm not sure that I can.

3. Did the men have some reason in coming so close to Winterfell?

I don't know.

4. With all the events that are taking place now, do you agree that Catelyn was wrong in going to Lysa's place?

Going there has indeed created more drama and trouble, but she went there with good intentions - to get help and answers and straighten things out.

5. Tyrion took a very bold chance. What do you think he was trying to achieve?

I think he was trying to save himself, first and foremost, and as he stood on the brink of death anyway he could as well risk it all. I like his cleverness!

6. Bah, Robert is soo not on my like-list. Now he wants Ned back as the Hand. What do you think of this?

I don't like it. Robert just forces him to stay so that he himself doesn't have to deal with all the trouble in the kingdom on his own - or at all.
He does need Ned - but Ned is of no use to him if he doesn't even listen to him. (hide spoiler)]

Serious Readers Challenge 2014, Level 1
Duration: 1.1.2014 - 12.31.2014

Link to my post
Completed: 25/100

January
✔ 1. The Husband's Secret; by Liane Moriarty [1/9] ♥♥♥
✔ 2. A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire #2); by George R.R. Martin [1/21] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 3. The Eyre Affair (Thursday Next #1); by Jasper Fforde [1/22] ♥♥♥
✔ 4. Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1); by Richelle Mead [1/24] ♥♥♥
✔ 5. Affair; by Amanda Quick [1/25] ♥♥♥
✔ 6. Uglies (Uglies #1); by Scott Westerfeld [1/28] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 7. A Walk to Remember; by Nicholas Sparks [1/29] ♥♥♥♥♥
✔ 8. Sabriel (Abhorsen #1); by Garth Nix [1/30] ♥♥♥
✔ 9. Insurrection (The Insurrection Trilogy #1); by Robyn Young [1/31] ♥♥♥



February
✔ 10. A Long Winter; by Colm Tóibín [2/5] ♥♥
✔ 11. Brave New World; by Aldous Huxley [2/13] ♥♥
✔ 12. Stridens skönhet och sorg; by Peter Englund [2/18] ♥♥♥



March
✔ 13. A Storm of Swords (A Song of Ice and Fire #3); by George R.R. Martin [3/2] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 14. Things I Want My Daughters to Know; by Elizabeth Noble [3/25] ♥♥
✔ 15. Springa med åror; by Cilla Naumann [3/26] ♥♥



May
✔ 16. Rebecca; by Daphne du Maurier [5/23] ♥♥♥
✔ 17. Totta; by Riikka Pulkkinen [5/24] ♥♥♥



June
✔ 18. Pretties (Uglies #2); by Scott Westerfeld [6/2] ♥♥♥♥



July
✔ 19. Star of the Sea; by Joseph O'Connor [7/10] ♥♥♥
✔ 20. Undercurrents; by Tamara McKinley [7/15] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 21. The Love Knot; by Elizabeth Chadwick [7/18] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 22. Lirael (Abhorsen #2); by Garth Nix [7/24] ♥♥♥



October
✔ 23. Bridget Jones's Diary; by Helen Fielding [10/31] ♥♥♥♥



November
✔ 24. The Casual Vacancy; by J.K. Rowling [11/26] ♥♥♥



December
✔ 25. The Stepmother's Diary; by Fay Weldon [12/26] ♥♥♥




Planned
☆ Svavelvinter (Krönikan om den femte konfluxen, #1) ; by Erik Granström
☆ Breathless; by Laura Lee Guhrke
☆ A Feast for Crows (A Song of Ice and Fire #4); by George R.R. Martin

Serious Readers Challenge 2014, Level 1
Duration: January 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014

Completed: 25/100

January
✔ 1. The Husband's Secret; by Liane Moriarty [1/9] ♥♥♥
✔ 2. A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire #2); by George R.R. Martin [1/21] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 3. The Eyre Affair (Thursday Next #1); by Jasper Fforde [1/22] ♥♥♥
✔ 4. Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1); by Richelle Mead [1/24] ♥♥♥
✔ 5. Affair; by Amanda Quick [1/25] ♥♥♥
✔ 6. Uglies (Uglies #1); by Scott Westerfeld [1/28] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 7. A Walk to Remember; by Nicholas Sparks [1/29] ♥♥♥♥♥
✔ 8. Sabriel (Abhorsen #1); by Garth Nix [1/30] ♥♥♥
✔ 9. Insurrection (The Insurrection Trilogy #1); by Robyn Young [1/31] ♥♥♥



February
✔ 10. A Long Winter; by Colm Tóibín [2/5] ♥♥
✔ 11. Brave New World; by Aldous Huxley [2/13] ♥♥
✔ 12. Stridens skönhet och sorg; by Peter Englund [2/18] ♥♥♥



March
✔ 13. A Storm of Swords (A Song of Ice and Fire #3); by George R.R. Martin [3/2] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 14. Things I Want My Daughters to Know; by Elizabeth Noble [3/25] ♥♥
✔ 15. Springa med åror; by Cilla Naumann [3/26] ♥♥



May
✔ 16. Rebecca; by Daphne du Maurier [5/23] ♥♥♥
✔ 17. Totta; by Riikka Pulkkinen [5/24] ♥♥♥



June
✔ 18. Pretties (Uglies #2); by Scott Westerfeld [6/2] ♥♥♥♥



July
✔ 19. Star of the Sea; by Joseph O'Connor [7/10] ♥♥♥
✔ 20. Undercurrents; by Tamara McKinley [7/15] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 21. The Love Knot; by Elizabeth Chadwick [7/18] ♥♥♥♥
✔ 22. Lirael (Abhorsen #2); by Garth Nix [7/24] ♥♥♥



October
✔ 23. Bridget Jones's Diary; by Helen Fielding [10/31] ♥♥♥♥



November
✔ 24. The Casual Vacancy; by J.K. Rowling [11/26] ♥♥♥



December
✔ 25. The Stepmother's Diary; by Fay Weldon [12/26] ♥♥♥

All About You Challenge
Duration: 1.1.2014 - 12.31.2014

Link to my post

January Birthday Month
Completed: 7/7

✔ J - The Eyre Affair (Thursday Next #1); by Jasper Fforde [1/22] ♥♥♥
✔ A - A Walk to Remember; by Nicholas Sparks [1/29] ♥♥♥♥♥
✔ N - Sabriel (Abhorsen #1); by Garth Nix [1/30] ♥♥♥
✔ U - Uglies (Uglies #1); by Scott Westerfeld [1/28] ♥♥♥♥
✔ A - Affair; by Amanda Quick [1/25] ♥♥♥
✔ R - Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1); by Richelle Mead [1/24] ♥♥♥
✔ Y - Insurrection (The Insurrection Trilogy #1); by Robyn Young [1/31] ♥♥♥



February: Birthstone
Completed: 5/6

☆ G - Svavelvinter (Krönikan om den femte konfluxen, #1); by Erik Granström
✔ A - Brave New World; by Aldous Huxley [2/13] ♥♥
✔ R - Rebecca; by Daphne du Maurier [5/23] ♥♥♥
✔ N - Springa med åror; by Cilla Naumann [3/26] ♥♥
✔ E - Stridens skönhet och sorg; by Peter Englund [2/18] ♥♥♥
✔ T - A Long Winter; by Colm Tóibín [2/5] ♥♥



Month 3: Sign
Completed: 4/8

✔ A - Lirael (Abhorsen #2); by Garth Nix [7/24] ♥♥♥
☆ Q
✔ U - Undercurrents; by Tamara McKinley [7/15] ♥♥♥♥
☆ A - A Feast for Crows (A Song of Ice and Fire #4); by George R.R. Martin
✔ R - The Casual Vacancy; by J.K. Rowling [11/26] ♥♥♥
☆ I
☆ U
✔ S - Pretties (Uglies #2); by Scott Westerfeld [6/2] ♥♥♥♥

Author Alphabet Reading Challenge 2014
Duration: 1.1.2014 - 12.31.2014

Link to my post
Completed: 17/26

A
B
✔ C - Springa med åror; by Cilla Naumann [3/26] ♥♥
✔ D - Rebecca; by Daphne du Maurier [5/23] ♥♥♥
✔ E - Things I Want My Daughters to Know; by Elizabeth Noble [3/25] ♥♥
✔ F - The Eyre Affair (Thursday Next #1); by Jasper Fforde [1/22] ♥♥♥
✔ G - A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire #2); by George R.R. Martin [1/21] ♥♥♥♥
✔ H - Bridget Jones's Diary; by Helen Fielding [10/31] ♥♥♥♥
I
✔ J - Star of the Sea; by Joseph O'Connor [7/10] ♥♥♥
K
✔ L - The Husband's Secret; by Liane Moriarty [1/9] ♥♥♥
✔ M - Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1); by Richelle Mead [1/24] ♥♥♥
✔ N - A Walk to Remember; by Nicholas Sparks [1/29] ♥♥♥♥♥
O
✔ P - Stridens skönhet och sorg; by Peter Englund [2/18] ♥♥♥
✔ Q - Affair; by Amanda Quick [1/25] ♥♥♥
✔ R - The Casual Vacancy; by J.K. Rowling [11/26] ♥♥♥
S
✔ T - A Long Winter; by Colm Tóibín [2/5] ♥♥
U
V
✔ W - Uglies (Uglies #1); by Scott Westerfeld [1/28] ♥♥♥♥
✔ X - Brave New World; by Aldous Huxley [2/13] ♥♥
✔ Y - Insurrection (The Insurrection Trilogy #1); by Robyn Young [1/31] ♥♥♥
Z

January Challenge: Vices or Virtues?
Duration: 1.1.2014 - 1.31.2014
Level: Devil in the Details (3-4 books)

FINISHED

Link to my post
Completed: 4/4

✔ E - The Eyre Affair (Thursday Next #1); by Jasper Fforde [1/22] ♥♥♥
✔ N - Sabriel (Abhorsen #1); by Garth Nix [1/30] ♥♥♥
✔ V - Vampire Academy (Vampire Academy #1); by Richelle Mead [1/24] ♥♥♥
✔ Y - Insurrection (The Insurrection Trilogy #1); by Robyn Young [1/31] ♥♥♥

BOOKS OF THE MONTH


2014
✔ Sabriel (Abhorsen #1); by Garth Nix [Jan 22-30] ♥♥♥ (discussion)
✔ The Husband's Secret; by Liane Moriarty [Jan 2-9] ♥♥♥ (discussion)



2013
✔ Steelheart (Reckoners #1) ; by Brandon Sanderson [Dec 22-30] ♥♥♥♥ (discussion)

BUDDY READS


2014
✔ Brave New World; by Aldous Huxley [Feb 7-13] ♥♥ (discussion)
✔ A Storm of Swords (A Song of Ice and Fire #3); by George R.R. Martin [Feb 2-24] ♥♥♥♥ (discussion)
✔ A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire #2); by George R.R. Martin [Jan 2-21] ♥♥♥♥ (discussion)



2013
✔ Neverwhere; by Neil Gaiman [Dec 20-27] ♥♥ (discussion)
✔ A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire #1); by George R.R. Martin [Dec 2-28] ♥♥♥♥ (discussion)