Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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The Diviners
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Bray, Libba - The Diviners BOM- Start Date June 2nd, 2013** Revisit informal buddy read starts July 15, 2018
@ Pamela#2 – Well, I hope you spelled out G.O.O.D. B.Y.E. after communicating with “Fast Eddie.”
#3 – It was creepy!
#4 – Totally agree about the “liquid courage.”
#5 – Yes! I felt the same; I did NOT want that crow following him.
#6 – LOL! Good. Someone else who agrees with me.
#8 – I like Mabel Rose, too.
#10 – Yes, how did she know that?
@ Ashley Marie#2 – True; it’s an old chestnut.
#3 – I’m not reading that book. I’m a wuss.
#5 – Yes, Memphis’ character interests me.
#8 – LOL! Yes, she makes a good foil.
#10 – You think Miss Addie is a Diviner? Wow. I hadn’t considered that.
@ Emily#2 – I’ve never heard of that.
#3 – LOL!
#5 – Eep! I don’t want Memphis to die.
#7 – He does seem to have a gentle nature. He’s not at all what I was expecting.
#8 – Ah! Someone with hope for Evie’s plan.
#10 – Your response to Ashley Marie – I hadn’t thought of the Fates!
@ Turtlecollector#4 – Yes, most teenagers have the word “rebel” in their job descriptions.
#5 – I’m hoping Memphis and Evie become friends. Maybe they’ll team up to solve the crime.
#6 – Ah, the comic relief. Hadn’t put that into word. He could be.
#7 – Yes! I thought that it was strange she was sent to her independent uncle, too.
#10 – I agree; those old ladies have more to reveal.
@ JoLene#1 – I think Sandy is annoyed, too. And me, kind of, when it is done too much, which seems to be sporadic for me.
#2 – Eep! In your room. I’d have been freaked, too.
#3 – LMBO!
#4 – Yes, it is weird that her parents sent her there. They obviously are oblivious. Or, I just thought of this, maybe they are suspicious of her “gift” after the incident and that is why they sent her specifically to her uncle. Hmm… hadn’t thought of that.
#7 – Very true, considering his job he does appear normal.
#9 – I agree. I thought her nickname for Evie was a dig.
@ Cathie#4 – The young often think they’ll live forever. Not only that, but that they’ll be young forever while doing so. I know a lot of these songs, too. Guess we’re both had weird 60’s childhoods.
#7 – Evie definitely likes to shock; however, I thinks she in for a few of her own.
#9 – Theta’s definitely jaded.
#11 – LMBO! Funny.
12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ? As soon as I saw that his name was John I knew it was Naughty John. I was practically yelling at Ruta not to go with him! Another one of those horror movie tropes - don't trust strange men who want to give you coffee...IT'S DRUGS. Ruta clearly hasn't seen enough after school specials :)
I'm curious to see what he means by "he's just starting to manifest." Will he get more real/corporeal as he kills people? Is he like Frankenstein's monster? I'm so curious about this!
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
I'm not sure he was looking for loose girls just like the Ripper - I'm sure he could have easily found prostitutes in 1920s NYC if he wanted to. I do think he has ideas about "modern" women, though. I think he was more concerned with Ruta's appearance as a flapper than anything else. I think the killings will make him less ghost-like and give him more power, so that's why they're ritualistic. He keeps referring to himself as the devil/like the devil, so it makes sense to me that he'd think that. So creepy!
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
LOL you are brave! I don't even want to know what you saw. I'm still very reminded of HH Holmes (the serial killer from Devil in the White City) - even the names are a little similar. I think I'm going to be googling Bray's inspiration for Hobbes later. Holmes also targeted beautiful young women and referred to himself as the devil when he was caught. I think that Bray was thinking of him when she wrote the character Hobbes.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
I think Memphis is scared of his gift because he couldn't save his mother. He said that the gift backfired, and I'm wondering if it's sort of like in that old HBO show Carnivale. One of the characters in that show could heal, but he had to take life energy from something else to do it. Maybe Memphis is the same way and all his healing made his mother sick or something.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
I'm curious to see if Evie can also speak with the dead in addition to reading objects. I think James is trying to warn her about her gifts and that the time of the Diviners is coming.
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
Holy stockings, Batman. I think that's par for the course with Evie - she would want to look the part, no matter the cost. If those stockings marked her as an It-Girl she would want them!
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
I thought the policeman was sent by Sam to get his coat back at first! I thought he played Evie at her own game. I do think he'll show back up, but it won't be as simple as him just giving her back the money.
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
I was kind of surprised that Uncle Will let her bully her way to the scene, but I was impressed with how well she handled herself. I'd have tossed my cookies and passed out immediately! I think Jericho has suspicions, but is more concerned with hiding his own secret than figuring out Evie's...whatever that secret might be.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
This device gets used so often in serial killer fiction, because so many people immediately recognize it as "evil." It's not that creepy to me anymore because it gets overused. I think it's just a way for Bray to make sure everyone knows Hobbes is Bad News. I'm not sure that religion will play a huge part, other than with Memphis' aunt who seems very concerned with it. I think it's just mostly there for the creep factor.
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
I was surprised at first, but then it sort of made sense to me. Maybe these gifts are genetic? I'm curious about what Sister Walker's files are. Maybe she's going to be Professor Xavier to Memphis, Isaiah, and Evie's X-men.
DQ for City of Dreams----A Place in the World Pg.060-117
12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ?
Yes, I suspected he was up to no good. I think he is going to be the evil spirit let loose in the world that Evie is going to have to conquer.
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
I think he was just looking for girls who were out by themselves, which in his mind meant they had "looser" morals. They weren't keeping to his version of "woman's place in society" of being sheltered, delicate, conservative and mostly at home. I think he is trying to search out people who have "other" abilities by finding the people who do not fit in with the old "norm".
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
I don't want to speculate yet, but he definitely has an evil spirit.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
I think he tried to heal someone and it didn't work so now he is afraid to try in case what he wants to happen doesn't. Maybe his mother, since I think I missed how she died.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
I am not sure yet, but this thing with the eyes and bright flashes like lightning is becoming more prevalent and very creepy. It must have something to with her gift, though.
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
I didn't compare it to today's terms, but it did seem to be a lot of money to be betting when movies cost 25 cents and cab rides are a little over $1. Maybe she was planning more than one pair of stockings? Also, Ruta, the girl who was killed, had her favorite pair of shoes on which was worth a week's salary to her. I think the focus for purchasing(to be seen as having money) back then was more on fashion, where most of us now spend our money like that on getting new technology like phones, tablets, HD TVs, etc.
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
I think he will try to get the coat back without giving her money. I still think he could be the comic relief in the book to keep a balance with all the creepy stuff, but it would be interesting if he ends up paired with Evie.
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
I don't think he had a choice of whether he should let her go, since she probably would have just found a way to follow on her own, but by letting her manipulate him, he kept a little bit of control in the situation and there was someone there to watch what she did. I am not sure if Jericho suspects she has abilities or not.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
This book has mentioned many different religions already and the museum is dedicated to all of them. I think they are all going to come into play in the background of the story and the pentacle is just the first one that happens.
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
This did surprise me, but it brings another aspect of abilities into the mix. I think she is keeping files of people she thinks has/are getting "abilities", but for what purpose I do not know.
I just wanted to comment to @JoLene #1 to say you aren't the only one annoyed by it. I have found the language a bit trying too...Anyway, thank you for the next questions...
12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ?
I suspected he was immediately - the whole chapter was just too sinister as it started out. I interpreted 'Mr Hobbs' as Naughty John just giving himself a random name to make Ruta feel more relaxed...or perhaps I didn't read that correctly?
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
I think he was looking for a lone woman, late at night. I know 'modern girl' was mentioned and I suspect that this is a part of it. Perhaps it was her diamante and rhinestone shoes which attracted him as it seemed important the 'offering' had jewels and riches on her.
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
I have no idea although I am thinking some kind of personification of the devil?
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
I think he probably received too much attention for his gift and it isn't what he wants to be known for, so he now pretends he doesn't have it. I can understand why he won't heal her - it almost commodifies or makes cheap the special and probably frightening thing he has which makes him unique.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
It shows that she cared for him very much and is also grieving for his loss. I haven't figured out exactly what he is trying to show her, but I do think it has something to do with her gift. I remember it said she didn't put away the necklace he sent to her - but can't remember whether it means she has it on her. If so, perhaps having it so close to her is making the dreams more vivid?
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
I didn't...but you wouldn't want to ladder them, would you!
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
No, I don't think he will, but he will definitely be back. I am starting to think that perhaps he is some kind of loveable rogue rather than being evil.
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
No, I don't, but then it was important for her to be there. In some ways, I was glad that her flippancy was stopped in its tracks by the reality of Ruta's murder. Granted, it was a pretty nasty awakening, but it is really important if Evie is going to mature. I suspect both Jericho and Will know about her gift, or at least suspect.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
Not knowing much about religion, I am not really sure, but perhaps it alludes to the new 'worship' of good times, clothes, possessions, money and status which would be anathema to some religious belief?
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
I was a little surprised. I think her files contain records of all of the Diviners she has worked with, so will be very important as the book goes on.
Karen, Sandy, Ashley Marie, or anyone else who would like to volunteer for DQs: I can do tomorrow's set; however, I'll be busy on the 5th. Is someone able to do them?
DQ 03 June for City of Dreams----A Place in the World 12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ?
Even with the start of the chapter I thought something bad is going to happen now. Yes I suspected John Hobbes was up to no good and I think he is Naughty John.
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
He's trying to get stronger by murdering those girls.I'm not sure if it's "loose girls",
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
I think the spirit of a serial killer, or a killer priest.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
I think he tried to heal his mother and that didn't work and now he doesn't want to use his power anymore.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
I think it is to prepare her for what is to come. I think it has a lot to do with her gift, I think the prophetic dreams are part of it, Memphis has them and I think Isaiah has them too,remember when Memphis came home and Isaiah was talking in his sleep he said part of the rhyme Hobbes was saying.
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
Yes they are expensive, but I think stockings were expensive then. Also it's a lot of money for those girls to be betting
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
Well I thought we wouldn't see him anymore, but I guess he has a role to play in this story.
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
Ofcourse he shouldn't have taken her, but she played him very well. I was also impressed by the way she behaved herself at the scene and after that flash it's understandable I think she relived the last moments of Ruta. Jericho doesn't know about her gift yet I think.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
I don't know the story does have a strong religious feel to it.
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
I wasn't surprised about Isaiah. The folders have information about other kids with gifts.
Lisa Kay wrote: "Karen, Sandy, Ashley Marie, or anyone else who would like to volunteer for DQs: I can do tomorrow's set; however, I'll be busy on the 5th. Is someone able to do them?"I can take the 5th, Lisa Kay.
Just need to find my dang Kindle charger.... grrrrr!
Sandy beat me to it - I can take the next set that you need covered.
Thanks, Sandy & Ashley Marie. I'll post your name, Sandy. Ashley Marie, I'm going to put your name on reserve. Okay? LOL!
Sounds good :)
Mod
As much time as I spend on GRs, I should at least be making myself useful lol!
Mod
Mod
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Karen ⊰✿, Fiction Aficionado
(last edited Jun 03, 2013 03:43PM)
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Yes, I guessed he would be the (dum..dum..duuuuuuum..) BADDIE! (insert evil laugh). That was so scary that bit!
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
I think he was looking for a "modern" girl, out on her own. I guess teaching similar girls a lesson?
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
LOL! I can only imagine what you got in that google search! No ideas as to who he is yet, I just figure there is some linkage to the start and they have called some kind of evil spirit into the world
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
Something bad obviously hapened with his gift at some point. Reminded me of that quirky show "Pushing up daisies" where he would revive people but only for a minute. I loved that show
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
I am going to guess these gifts run through family lines. The brother is trying to explain to her what her gift is I guess
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
Huge bet! I know stockings, perfume, lipstick etc. were extremely expensive and popular in wartime. I found this article from a newspaper in 1920 which I thought was pretty cool
http://trove.nla.gov.au/ndp/del/artic...
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
I really like him. Comic relief! I don't think he will give her the money
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
I am still assuming he knows about her power so that is why he agreed. I can't imagine he would've otherwise? What a horrible thing to see
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
I'm not very familiar with the bible so I am a bit clueless on how this will play out :)
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
This part of the story is really interesting to me. I look forward to learning more about them (and it is a break from all the "-ski's"!!)
Mod
Just read your responses Cathie - made me laugh thanks! You are indeed the Cat's Meoooow
hahaha
DQ for City of Dreams----A Place in the WorldPg.060-117
12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ?
The entire time I was thinking "No! Don't go with him you stupid girl! What? You trust him because he's Polish?! You're doomed." He seemed to be able to conjure illusions or something though...Ruta sounded like a smart girl, so I think he coerced her using them. I think he's some sort of lesser demon that's serving Naughty John...maybe by possession.
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
I think he's trying to summon Naughty John, and he needs to sacrifice girls to do it. "Loose girls" are just easier to come by, and wouldn't really be missed.
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
I was thinking that the name might be an anagram for some demon's name or something...but I couldn't find anything interesting. I'm pretty much convinced he's some sort of demon who wants to be summoned from hell, but only time will tell what he actually is.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
Memphis mentioned that "when it had mattered most, the miracle had failed him. No, not just failed -- turned on him".So I'm thinking he failed once and that might have been why his mother died. So he's scared and doesn't want to try and use his power anymore.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
In her dream, she's in the middle of a battle in the trenches, and she sees a dead man with no eyes. Well, we know Ruta had her eyes gouged out by our friendly-neighbourhood, furnace-dwelling monster, so I think the battle in the dream might signify that Evie is going to have to defend herself/fight against Naughty John. Her brother's spirit might be trying to warn her of what's to come.
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
I did indeed. How much money does this girl have? She didn't exactly seem rich to me. She was definitely trying to impress Theta though, and that bit her in the butt.
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
I'm wondering if maybe he was being controlled by something...Kind of like how I think Mr. Hobbes is being possessed. I'm still not sure though.
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
I think if he left her behind, she would have just cabbed it and followed them. Her uncle probably thought that, too. I said in my answers for last chapter that Uncle Will might know about Evie's powers, so maybe Jericho does too. We'll see, I guess!
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
I didn't really see her as a religious person, but if she were baptized, maybe that's what the evil thing in the furnace needs as sacrifices? Or, at least, for the 5th one. The inverted pentagram makes me think of satanic rituals...and that's where to story seems to be leaning. I'm not sure what the snake is supposed to represent though.
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do you think was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
I think Sister Walker might scout for people with mysterious abilities...she referenced Memphis and his failure, and how she didn't want Isaiah to end up the same. Those files might contain records of people she's scouted out.
These answers may not be well thought out because I've had Anatomy all day today, and I'm really tired, but I am still going to try.12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ? Woah! This chapter really freaked me out, and it was probably because I knew he was up to no good as soon as he had her smell some "smelling salts". I mean really that should set off some red flags.
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do? I think it's obvious that he is going for these girls that like to drink and party. It may be like one of those things they talked about on Criminal Minds called mercy killings. They think they are doing these people a favor by killing them so that they can sin no longer.
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D? Oh gosh! I'll keep that in mind. I mean I know he keeps talking about beasts and such which sound like they come from the Bible. Also I think it was John who was the disciple that witnessed all of the goings on in Revelations. Being the good christian girl that I am though I hope it isn't supposed to be the disciple. Maybe just some twisted guy who thinks he's him.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl? Apparently something happened and I think it had something to do with his mother's death, and he doesn't want that thing to happen again.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining? I'm not sure, but one thing I wanted to ask about this is that books usually have awfully detailed dreams. I mean I can remember the overall gist of my dream and some details, but nothing like I've read in books. Can anyone else recall dreams with this amount of detail?
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that? I thought Evie was betting a little high. Also this means that Sam stole about $240 making him a lot worse in my eyes.
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed? I hope so. He is a swindler. He needs to go! lol
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift? I think Evie is very manipulative, and so honestly Uncle Will was not going to get out of her coming. I don't know about Jericho maybe he has some kind of gift too.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle? I think the thing about the pentacle putting material over spiritual was important, and John is trying to snuff out this "False religion"
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah? I was a little surprised, but I was also falling asleep which usually heightens my emotions when big info is revealed. I don't know about the file, but I'm guessing all of this stuff is connected.
And also am I the only one who wants to start saying "And how!" :D
12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ? I figured John Hobbes was up to no good. I just wish Ruta would have stayed with her male companion. I’m sure that John Hobbes is “Naughty John”. Naughty John = Satan
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
I don’t think he was looking for “loose girls” – maybe a girl that was down on her luck and easy to persuade. I think Naughty John is capable of reading others minds/emotions. He knew she would be easy to convince. I believe he is trying to gain strength and show himself.
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
At first I thought Naughty John was some sort of serial killer from the past. All of a sudden he starts speaking from the book of Revelation – specifically about Babylon the Great. “For only the chosen shall rise with the Beast. And the world fall to ash.” At this point, I think we’re dealing with Satan.
“I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, amen; and have th keys of hell and of death.’ ”
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
I believe that his healing powers come at a price. I also get the feeling that his community placed too much pressure on him and expected him to heal all injuries. Come on! They wanted him to heal Jo’s sprained ankle.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
I’m not exactly sure what her brother is trying to show her. I’m sure that her dream has lots to do with her gift.
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
Wow! I didn’t pay much attention to the $10 stockings. Must be some serious threads!!
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
I have a feeling he will show up, but not with her $20. Nope, I still feel the same way about Sam. Let’s hope he shows up and changes my mind.
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
I have a feeling that Uncle Will is aware of her gift. He didn’t seem to put up much of a fight. I think Jericho is focused on hiding his own secrets.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
I think “The Whore of Babylon” is the city of New York. The people are careless and willing to do just about anything to gain worldly possessions. The pentacle or “Seal of Solomon” was used to summon evil. I kind of feel it's Naughty John's way of saying "I'm here!"
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
I can’t say that I was surprised that his younger brother has a gift. I think Sister Walker knows there will be others that show up with powers.
Emily wrote: "And also am I the only one who wants to start saying "And how!" :D"And how! :D
I feel like the slang might rub off on me if I read much more haha. Which is a good thing; I don't know a whole lot about the 20's, but the story feels authentic so far. Bray is a good writer. C:
@ Reed#12 – I was waiting for him to show up and all the clues, like his arm feeling skeletal, made me figure he was Naughty John. Not sure how he is “turning,” either.
#13 – Oh, forgot about the “fifth offering.” Good point.
#15 – Oh, good guesses. I figure he can still heal, too.
#16 – I agree. I noticed in her dream the dead guys eyes were missing. Don’t know what it means, though.
#18 – Good way to put it. It has become a “flirting game” now.
#21 – Yes, definitely surprised by Isaiah’s gift. LOL! I remember that scene from Ghostbusters.
@ Ashley Marie#12 – Yeah, the handkerchief gesture made me wonder how he got a hold of drugs – if it even was drugs – or if it was something else.
#13 – Ah! Could be the “flapper” appearance. Hadn’t thought of that.
#15 – Hmmm… I’m going to have to think on this. Makes sense that the energy has to come from somewhere.
#16 – See, now I’m going to have to re-read that dream section. LOL!
#17 – I agree. Good comparison to her wanting to be an “It-Girl.”
#20 – Yeah, I was stumped by Uncle Will saying some things weren’t in the bible. It will be interesting to see where the references are from.
#21 – LOL! Good be!
@ Turtlecollector#13 – Yes, interesting about the “other” abilities.
#16 – I agree. Her dream has something to do with her gift.
#17 – Yes, very true about what people think are important. I had a young man working for me this last summer, while I was remodeling. He had a bad tire on his car that he kept patching and repairing. A couple times he couldn’t come to work b/c the tire was flat. However, when he saved up enough money, he bought a brand new iPhone, not a new tire. I thought this was completely strange. I mean, he can’t buy a new gadget if he can’t get to his job to make money.
#18 – I agree. Sam is the comic relief. And their flirting.
#19 – Yeah, I don’t know what Jericho thinks of Evie, or if he wonders if she has any gifts.
@ NancyHelen#12 – Could be. I immediately thought of the movie Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation, thought it wasn’t written until the 60’s. Still, I wasn’t fooled by his name.
#13 – Ah! Very good. I wonder.
#15 – I felt bad for the dancer, but I can see why he is afraid of his gift.
#16 – Oh! I hope the necklace doesn’t attract Naughty John later.
#19 – I agree. She was certainly struck by the two year age difference between her and Ruta.
#20 – Hmmm. Interesting theory.
@ Imke#14 – Priest!?!
#16 – Yes, when Isaiah was talking in his sleep, it freaked me out because he was kind of talking like Naughty John.
@ Karen#12 – It was a very scary chapter.
#14 – Yes, I had to LOL over JoLene’s Google search. Brave woman.
#15 – I loved that show, Pushing Up Daisies. Too bad they took it off the air.
#17 – Thanks for the article. The price is a little bit lower than $10. Still, they were silk then, not nylon.
@ Kayla#12 – Yes, he was using several tricks to get Ruta to go with him. The ability use illusions surprised me. I don’t know why.
#14 – Oh! I hadn’t thought of an anagram!
#16 – LOL! (over “friendly-neighborhood, furnace-dwelling monster). Yes, I picked up on the eye-gouging, too.
#18 – I hadn’t considered that about Sam. Hmmm…
@Lisa Kay#12 - Well it's the first malicious use of "power" we've seen so far, and it's mostly just been visions and dreams affecting people otherwise.
#14 - Naughty John seemed like a weird name, but I think that's a dead end. The most interesting coherent thing I came up with was "Gay John Hunt".
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That is so true (and how!...lol). I occassionally have vivid dreams that I remember, but as I start to recall the details it kind of slips away from me. Most of the time I have no idea if I have dreamt at all!
Kayla wrote: "The most interesting coherent thing I came up with was "Gay John Hunt"."LOL! Okay, then.
Karen wrote: "@Emily - I'm not sure, but one thing I wanted to ask about this is that books usually have awfully detailed dreams. I mean I can remember the overall gist of my dream and some details, but nothing ..."I agree --- sometimes I do have pretty vivid dreams. Also, sometimes I dream that I get into a fight with someone and I wake up really, really angry with them. I'm not generally a person that gets angry so it's very strange to feel this way when waking up -- even though I may not remember the details of the dream.
I love some of the answer you guys have come up with!!Sister Walker as Xavier from X-files :-D
I have also recently read The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America and agree with some of the similarities -- but at least this is fiction.
I do have one prediction --- I think that Sam is going to become a suspect in the murders. I think that Evie is going to have to reveal her gift to help him.
While I am annoyed with some of the speech, I do think Bray can really create the setting well --- she definitely writes so that the movie in my head is complete (if that makes any sense). An example is that she created a "montage" where she described what the different characters were doing on one night. I could see this with the sound of the wind whooshing us from each location.
12. “And upon her forehead was a name written in Mystery: Babylon the Great, the Harlot” - Wow! City of Dreams – what a chapter!! Did you suspect that John Hobbes was up to no good? What or who do you think he is ? I thought he was upto no good when I read his first name was John. Oddly enough the chapter reminded me of the "Dexter". Although there is nothing supernatural about Dexter there was this season with a doomsday killer who does ritualistic killings for the coming apocalypse. And he calls himself one of the two witnesses that does God's work. The killer in that series actually believed that the world was corrupt and the apocalypse would bring about a new world and he would be rewarded. Though I am finding it difficult to imagine John is doing God's work may be he is doing the opposite. Maybe he is trying to bring about the "beast" from hell like in the revelations.
13. Do you think that Hobbes was looking for “loose girls” (like Jack the Ripper) ? He refers to this being the 5th offering as commanded by the Lord God, so this is obviously a ritual. What is he trying to do?
He may be trying to raise the "Beast" which is the last ritual or something. Then he has to kill the beast to bring about the apocalypse. Got that one from watching "Dexter". Whoever called TV an idoit box is an idiot.
14. Any guesses as to who Naughty John is??? BTW, I don’t recommend googling the term because I didn’t find anything and you can only guess what type of sites came up :-D?
Thanks for the warning. I am thinking he is a cross between the villain in Poltergeist and Chucky from "Child's Play" not the doll but the villain behind it.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl?
I think he must have tried to save his mom but somehow ended up killing her and now he is too guilt ridden to use the powers.
16. What is the significance of Evie’s re-occurring dream about her brother. What is he trying to show her? Does this have anything to do with her gift of divining?
All of them seem to have suffered from something or the other before their powers manifested. The spirits are warning them. May be they are trying to protect them in some way
17. Evie wants to buy stockings with the $10 winnings from the bet with Theta (on if Mabel will cut her hair). I looked up the value of $10 --- it would be about $120 in today’s terms. That’s some pretty expensive stockings. Did anyone else notice that?
No, I guess I thought the prices in terms of today's rate. May be the author did too or Evie wanted soemthing else. And you are definitely a serious reader :)
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
19. Did you think that Uncle Will should have let Evie come along? I was actually impressed that she was able to stay mostly composed --- until she had the flash of Ruta’s death. Jericho was there to comfort her – do you think he knows about her gift?
Yes, it seems half the people she meet have some thing to say about her gift. Wonder why only New Yorkers are the only ones that remark on her uniqueness. I already have my suspicions about Jericho being one of the diviners.
20. “The whore of Babylon” phrase is in the book of Revelations and is often a way to refer to false religions. How do we think this plays into the story? What about the pentacle?
Feels like another Da Vinci Code with the pentacle and stuff. Maybe all the things will lead to ssome religious revelations especially since there is a lot of talk on American Folklore.
21. Isaiah, Memphis’ brother, also has a gift. Were you surprised by that? What do was in the files that Sister Walker pulled out after her session with Isaiah?
I kind of think Sister Walker is working for the wrong side or may be she is some member of a cult or something which fights supernatural stuff. Still I think there is something off about her
@ JoLeneInteresting prediction about Sam.
Yes, I think Bray does a great job on the setting.
@ Parvathy#12 – Interesting about the “beast” from hell in Revelations.
#13 – I’ve been meaning to watch – or read – that series. It is on my radar. Except I’m such a wuss.
@ Lisa KayYep, you need a stong stomach to get through some of the things they show but I think the shows charm is the fact that the bad people suffer such horrible deaths. The "beast" is the Devil in the show so maybe here also he is trying to raise Satan.
Could be, Parvathy.
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Pg.118-190, by Lisa Kay
22. Don’t you just know that door in the floor of the collections room of the MotCC is going to come into play again. I just don’t know if it will be used as escape or entrance – or for Naughty John or one of the others. Any predictions?
23. Ah! So, Sam has abilities, too. I wasn’t expecting that. That’s a pretty good one, too; I wouldn’t mind having it. LOL! You? Any guesses on the significance of Project Buffalo?
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
25. Well, Evie made her pitch for Mabel to Jericho. Doesn’t look good. Plus, he blushed when Sam asked if Evie and he were husband and wife. Really not good. I see an unrequited love triangle coming a mile away. Comments.
26. Eep. That crow is following Memphis. I did like his line about wanting to find THE girl; that was nice. Impression of Gabe and his chances with Okeh Records? Will we see more of him?
27. I was surprised we got Theta’s POV. The only thing that stood out to me was that Henry was reading Negro poetry, Daisy can’t dance, and Theta didn’t forget a favor. Did anything else stand out to you?
28. What do you think of Sam’s ploy to get to talk with Dr. Fitzgerald? Do you think Uncle Will recognized his ability, that’s why he bought his story? And what about Sam did with Jericho’s wallet?
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
30. Uh oh, Evie’s doing her ‘party trick’ again. What about her lie to Theta? Would you do the same thing, if you had Evie’s ability?
31. Now that crow is in Memphis’s dreams! Interpretation? So, is Isaiah some sort of translator/communicator between the two worlds (good and evil)?
32. Well, I do NOT like Paddy. Poor Tommy. There was so much I didn’t understand in the “A Rind of Moonlight” chapter. (Man-oh-man! I hope it doesn’t give me nightmares.) Why did Naughty John choose Tommy as a victim? Just opportunity? Or the kid’s name? Tommy’s perfect hands? That he was willing to gamble? I didn’t get the “obedience” offering. Your thoughts?
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
34. What do you think of the drawing of the pentacle-and-snake emblem Evie found? Liberty Anne’s prophecies and her explanation of the Diviners? The man in the stovepipe hat who comes with the storm? What stood out for you in Evie’s nightmare?
35. Impressions of T.S. Woodhouse? How Evie handled him? Or he handled her? I guess I’m naïve; I didn’t think she’d cave. What will be the repercussions?
Ah! Something just clicked with regards to the “obedience” offering. Still, I'd like to hear your thoughts.
22. Don’t you just know that door in the floor of the collections room of the MotCC is going to come into play again. I just don’t know if it will be used as escape or entrance – or for Naughty John or one of the others. Any predictions?I think it will lead to a secret room for diviners to use in the future. Maybe Unc doesn't know about it yet. If I had to guess I would say there may be something hidden there.
23. Ah! So, Sam has abilities, too. I wasn’t expecting that. That’s a pretty good one, too; I wouldn’t mind having it. LOL! You? Any guesses on the significance of Project Buffalo?
Sam is a strange one. His mother seems to know that he will develop powers. He says his mother left him and he wants to find "her". I don't know who is he talking about and the significance of the post card with something written in Russian. Sam is more than just a pickpocket. He seems to have a completely different agenda.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
I think she was going to talk about her dream. The one with her dead brother.
25. Well, Evie made her pitch for Mabel to Jericho. Doesn’t look good. Plus, he blushed when Sam asked if Evie and he were husband and wife. Really not good. I see an unrequited love triangle coming a mile away. Comments.
Yes, there is more to Jericho too.He must be having some powers he is trying to hide. Since he is the brooding type it is not surprising if he has a crush on Evie. May be Evie will help him when she learns about his secret causing a misunderstanding between her and Mabel. The way he is actng around Sam is also weird. I not much of a fan of triangles. I am hoping this doesn't end up as one because I am liking the story so far.
26. Eep. That crow is following Memphis. I did like his line about wanting to find THE girl; that was nice. Impression of Gabe and his chances with Okeh Records? Will we see more of him?
They did say the crow is a messenger. Carrying a message to Memphis. Just hope he deciphers it in time. Gabe I am not so sure. Have to read futher
27. I was surprised we got Theta’s POV. The only thing that stood out to me was that Henry was reading Negro poetry, Daisy can’t dance, and Theta didn’t forget a favor. Did anything else stand out to you?
Theta's devil may care attitude was a stand out.
28. What do you think of Sam’s ploy to get to talk with Dr. Fitzgerald? Do you think Uncle Will recognized his ability, that’s why he bought his story? And what about Sam did with Jericho’s wallet?
I think Evie's uncle knows that Sam was lying. I found it odd that he could lie about finding the artifact in a pawn shop but cannot lie about pickpoceting Evie
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments
It may be the time when for the ultimate sacrifice to raise the beast at which time the diviners have to stand together to fight the evil
30. Uh oh, Evie’s doing her ‘party trick’ again. What about her lie to Theta? Would you do the same thing, if you had Evie’s ability?
If I wanted to maintain my friendship with her I would have done the same. I also had a friend who had a lot of tragic secrets she didn't want to share with her friends but even when I found out I acted like I didn't know because I knew that if she wanted to confide in me she would have dome that already and I respect her privacy
31. Now that crow is in Memphis’s dreams! Interpretation? So, is Isaiah some sort of translator/communicator between the two worlds (good and evil)?
Maybe he is the vessel or a prophet
32. Well, I do NOT like Paddy. Poor Tommy. There was so much I didn’t understand in the “A Rind of Moonlight” chapter. (Man-oh-man! I hope it doesn’t give me nightmares.) Why did Naughty John choose Tommy as a victim? Just opportunity? Or the kid’s name? Tommy’s perfect hands? That he was willing to gamble? I didn’t get the “obedience” offering. Your thoughts?
Doubting Thomas.Hmmm..Was he one of the obident disciples. I don't know I didn't get the obidience offering either. What if the significance of the body parts. Why his hands? It is said the harlot saw the great beast. Is there some poem relating to the sixth offering too. There was a dead dog too. Dogs are known for their loyalty and obidience may be that is it.
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
I don't t think so but he does know something.
34. What do you think of the drawing of the pentacle-and-snake emblem Evie found? Liberty Anne’s prophecies and her explanation of the Diviners? The man in the stovepipe hat who comes with the storm? What stood out for you in Evie’s nightmare?
The setting it was like the storm has come and they are the only nes that can stop it kind of feel
35. Impressions of T.S. Woodhouse? How Evie handled him? Or he handled her? I guess I’m naïve; I didn’t think she’d cave. What will be the repercussions?
I think she should not have trusted him. I also didn't think she would cave but I did think she would use him for publicity. There will be repercussions and I am not so sure that they will be good ones
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I must of selected the wrong word on spell check.
Changed it.
My answers to the first set of questions:DQs for June 2: A Late Summer Evening--It's Just the Bennington, Dear; submitted by Lisa Kay
1. Did you know this book was going to be set in the 1920’s? I haven’t read a lot of books recently that are set in this area, have you? Especially YA. Do you get a sense of era? Flappers, Prohibition, radio, the death of Rudolph Valentino and the heiress having mannerisms of Clara Bow (both silent film sex symbols of the 1920’s), Edison’s “modern marvel,” jazz music, speakeasies, and vaudeville theater?
After I read the blurb about the book and looked at the front cover I guessed it was going to be set in the 1920’s. I love that era and I think the book evoked it straight away. For an English person it sounded so American – just as imagine that time to be and really set the scene. I got excited straight away.
2. Have you ever play with an Ouija board? I had no idea it was that old. I’m thinking it was a B.A.D. I.D.E.A. to not spell out G.O.O.D. B.Y.E. Right?
I’ve never played with a Ouija board – I haven’t dared. I felt goosebumps when the spirit came into the room – I have a bad feeling about him!
3. What did you think was the significant of the wind, the old mansion, and the furnace in the cellar?
No idea. I must have missed that bit! I’ll have to go back and check!
4. What was your impression of Evie O’Neill? What about after you learned of her “gift” and why she left town? Her attitude toward her mother and father’s grief over James? The lies she told the train conductor? Her need for attention? Regardless of her lack of knowledge about world current events, does she have the smarts to make it in New York City?
I am a bit irritated by her so far as she seems quite cocky and a bit of a rascal. But on the other hand she may grow on me. She is quite needy and lies very easily. She seems to love making up stories and living in a bit of a dream world. I think she has all the assets someone in New York needs!
5. What bit of poetry did Memphis Campbell write on that piece of paper? Do you think his dreams about an eye with a lightning bolt underneath are prophetic? And what of the crow following him? Eep!
Oh dear, I can see I will have to read the next series of chapters more closely. I had to battle with ‘Family Guy’ in the background as my husband watched TV! I can’t remember a poem. I’ll look tonight when I read the next bit.
6. What did you think of Sam Lloyd? Is he a harmless charmer? Legit? Or something more sinister? Have we seen the last of him?
I don’t think he’s sinister. I don’t think he’ll appear again, although now your question has got me thinking….
7. What did you think of Uncle Will, curator of the Museum of American Folklore, Superstition, and the Occult? Did anything in particular standout? What the cabbie said? Jericho Jones? The items in the display case? Liberty Anne? ? The reveal of who – or what – “The Diviners” are? The clippings?
A very odd museum although I would love to walk round it. It sounds fascinating. He isn’t quite as I imagined him – I didn’t expect him to be a lecturer, more like a mad scientist sort of character. Jericho is a bit spooky. I cannot understand why Mabel likes him. Maybe he has some sort of control over her?
8. I have to admit, I thought Mabel Rose was going to be a factious person, did you? Do you like her? Pretty naïve compared to Evie, right? Can she be trusted with Evie’s secret? What about Evie’s plan for Mabel’s crush on Jericho Jones?
Mabel seems quite naïve and simple compared to Evie – I can’t see the plan with Jericho working as it may work for Evie but not with Mabel. Evie has trusted her with the secret about her ring thing hasn’t she – is that what you mean? Well, if it is, then maybe not. She’s a bit disappointing but maybe she’ll get deeper during the book.
9. Impressions of Theta Knight, Ziegfeld girl? She comes across as much older than 17, at least on the audio. And her nickname for Evie?
She feels about 21 or 22 to me from reading the book. I can’t imagine a 17 year old working as a Ziegfeld girl – not with the pictures that were attached to this discussion thread. Maybe she needs to seem older to be successful in what she does, and I guess that sort of party lifestyle would make you grow up quick.
10. The Misses Procter, Miss Lillian and Miss Adelaide, gave a creepy telling of the Bennington’s history, though Evie and Mabel shrug it off. You just know this is going to come into play in the plot, right? What about Miss Addie’s pronouncement?“You’re one of them, aren’t you, dear?” Spooky, true?
She sounds like someone who can tell a spiritual person. Same thing happened to my mum once; we were at a meeting for Church and this lady came up to her and said that she had a gift – she had healing hands apparently and this lady would show her how to use them. My mum didn’t take her up on the offer but she has often wondered….
11. Do you think there is more to Jericho Jones’ story about how he came to work for Evie’s uncle? Will he and Evie’s uncle go along with Evie’s idea about advertising?
There’s a whole lot more to Jericho I reckon – I think he could turn out to be one of the main characters. I hope they take up her idea of advertising – I could see her turning the museum into some sort of nightclub or entertainment venue – it definitely needs sprucing up.
June 4 DQs: The Hearts of Men-- And Death Shall Flee Pg.118-190, by Lisa Kay
22. Don’t you just know that door in the floor of the collections room of the MotCC is going to come into play again. I just don’t know if it will be used as escape or entrance – or for Naughty John or one of the others. Any predictions?
I also think it is going to be used as a secret room for the diviners. Eventually, Evie won't be able to stop herself from exploring it.
23. Ah! So, Sam has abilities, too. I wasn’t expecting that. That’s a pretty good one, too; I wouldn’t mind having it. LOL! You? Any guesses on the significance of Project Buffalo?
I didn't expect that either. Now he is going to have more significance to the story than comic relief. I think Project Buffalo may have been a study of people with strange abilities in the past? Maybe part of the files that Sister Walker was looking at.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
She was going to tell her about what she saw when she touched the buckle.
25. Well, Evie made her pitch for Mabel to Jericho. Doesn’t look good. Plus, he blushed when Sam asked if Evie and he were husband and wife. Really not good. I see an unrequited love triangle coming a mile away. Comments.
I also see an unrequited love triangle here. Mabel likes Jericho, Jericho likes Evie, Evie likes no one?, Sam? I think Sam and Evie might get together since many books have characters originally antagonistic toward each other becoming a couple.
26. Eep. That crow is following Memphis. I did like his line about wanting to find THE girl; that was nice. Impression of Gabe and his chances with Okeh Records? Will we see more of him?
I don't really like Gabe right now, he seems extraneous to the story to me. Maybe he will come back later though.
27. I was surprised we got Theta’s POV. The only thing that stood out to me was that Henry was reading Negro poetry, Daisy can’t dance, and Theta didn’t forget a favor. Did anything else stand out to you?
I think there needed to be a way to set up Evie to do her "party trick" again. Her blasé attitude toward word stood out to me. If I tried that with my employer, I'd be fired.
28. What do you think of Sam’s ploy to get to talk with Dr. Fitzgerald? Do you think Uncle Will recognized his ability, that’s why he bought his story? And what about Sam did with Jericho’s wallet?
Sam's ploy to get in fits with his character. I think Uncle Will might suspect about his ability and that is why he offered him a job, but I don't think he bought Sam's story. About the wallet, Sam is a pickpocket of course, he couldn't help himself when he saw Jericho's interest in Evie.
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
Recurrence refers to cycles and there have been references to diviners in the past and now they are coming back.
30. Uh oh, Evie’s doing her ‘party trick’ again. What about her lie to Theta? Would you do the same thing, if you had Evie’s ability?
If I was Evie, I probably would have done the same thing. I think everyone is entitled to some secrets and the public does not need to know everything, especially if it has a big emotional impact on the person. Superficial stuff like what they ate or what city they are from are harmless facts.
31. Now that crow is in Memphis’s dreams! Interpretation? So, is Isaiah some sort of translator/communicator between the two worlds (good and evil)?
Not sure yet, but the crow could be symbolizing that Memphis needs to pay attention to Isaiah.
32. Well, I do NOT like Paddy. Poor Tommy. There was so much I didn’t understand in the “A Rind of Moonlight” chapter. (Man-oh-man! I hope it doesn’t give me nightmares.) Why did Naughty John choose Tommy as a victim? Just opportunity? Or the kid’s name? Tommy’s perfect hands? That he was willing to gamble? I didn’t get the “obedience” offering. Your thoughts?
I didn't get the "obedience" offering either, unless it somehow refers to Tommy following orders from Paddy in order to be part of the gang.
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
I was a little surprised since he seems to be laid back and not restrictive except with Jericho. I don't think he knew she was doing her "party trick".
34. What do you think of the drawing of the pentacle-and-snake emblem Evie found? Liberty Anne’s prophecies and her explanation of the Diviners? The man in the stovepipe hat who comes with the storm? What stood out for you in Evie’s nightmare?
It is beginning to feel "cult-ish" with the Brotherhood. And there is a lot of storm imagery in this book.
35. Impressions of T.S. Woodhouse? How Evie handled him? Or he handled her? I guess I’m naïve; I didn’t think she’d cave. What will be the repercussions?
At first I didn't think she would cave, but as soon as he mentioned getting her name in the paper, I suspected she might find some way to use it as advertising for the museum. She really wants to get more people visiting it. I did think that she would find a way to manipulate him so that she got her way and he didn't get his though.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
The Museum of Dr. Moses: Tales of Mystery and Suspense (other topics)Beauty Queens (other topics)
Lair of Dreams (other topics)
A Discovery of Witches (other topics)
Me Before You (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Libba Bray (other topics)Libba Bray (other topics)
#1 – Yes, the wind was a clever bit, as an overview.
#2 – I’m a wimp, too. When I heard the author’s intro on the audiobook, I thought, “Uh oh. I shouldn’t start this at night.”
#3 – Oh…Very interesting! I didn’t connect the furnace to the dragon; you could be on to something.
#4 – Good insight into Evie.
#5 – Yes, I just notice that last night on my copy. LOL! A little slow here.
#6 – I hadn’t thought of how quickly he latched onto her.
# 7 – Again, something I hadn’t considered. See why I like “buddy reads”?
#9 – LOL! Okay. Yes, I was wondering if she was going to be an antagonist, too.
#10 – LOL! Yes, that scene was creepy on the audiobook.
#11 – A front!?!