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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
Big surprise...I am behind already. LOL!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 recently read Vengeance in Death by J.D. Robb, and the psychotic killer in that book sounded just like this guy. So, yes, I suspected he was not a good guy. I'm not sure who he is. I'm wondering if he is the resurrected spirit of a serial killer who died long ago, and the Ouija board brought him back into the earthly realm?
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?
It's certainly possible.
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?
HA HA! Too funny, JoLene! No, I won't google it.
15. Memphis has the gift of healing, or at least had. Any ideas why he won’t heal the chorus girl? I thought it was because he knew he had lost the gift.
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 like the idea of him trying to communicate with her from beyond the grave. She never really got closure with her brother in that she couldn't really say goodbye. If she does indeed have psychic abilities, I would think that would certainly lend itself to aiding her dreams.
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! Good catch. Yes, that's way more than I would pay. :-)
18. Do you think Sam will bring back the money? Have your impressions changed?
I doubt it, but anything is possible. I think he's a criminal and not to be trusted, so my opinion hasn't 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?
As a mother, heck no I don't think he should have let her come along. I know 17 year olds think they know everything, but they are still kids. (Of course, when I was 17 I would have told you I was an adult!) Jericho is very close to Uncle Will, and I think Uncle Will suspects her gift, so therefore Jericho probably does 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?
Perhaps the killer believes he is some sort of avenging angel (again, I got this from Vengeance in Death). The pentacle can mean a lot of things. I'm thinking it's evil in this case.
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?
Yes, I was surprised, but looks like we'll have a team of gifted youth to fight the "bad guy." As for the files, maybe old stories of gifted youth? Maybe clippings of Naughty John's crimes?
Mod
Sandy, will you be able to catch up? Or would you like Ashley Marie to do tomorrow's set of DQs?
Yep, I can catch up tonight. Thanks for the offer though. :-)
Mod
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 maybe someone will escape from Naughty John and then run to the museum where Evie will then hide them in that room. Maybe. I dunno, just a guess.
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? This story keeps getting stranger and stranger, and the thing with these kind of books is that I figure out the twist like one or two pages before it happens. I don't know if that means I'm slow or quick.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep? Oh I thought it was going to be about what she saw when she held 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. Ugh! Why are guys so stupid sometimes?!
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 hope that the thing Gabe is doing isn't a scam. I mean I guess as long as he doesn't pay anybody money. I do hope that Gabe ends up getting famous and then in turn letting Memphis get his big break with writing.
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? That Theta always goes out with these guys almost acting like a companion (on the show Firefly). They buy her stuff, but they aren't looking for something real; just arm decoration.
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 wonder if Will is like Professor Xavier (wow I'm bringing in all the nerd references today) and he can find the people who are special. I still just don't know about Sam. I kind of think he is going to get himself into some real trouble that he can't talk his way out of.
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments? Man this made me think of another nerd reference (I'm on fire!) In the show Heroes a lot of people gained their abilities at the Summer Solstice, so maybe this is similar. Maybe people's powers will become stronger. Or it could be what Naughty John is working up to.
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? Well I wouldn't have been showing it off in the first place, but I probably would have asked her about it later.
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)? Isaiah is creepin me out. I really do hate crows though. I mean they have got to be some kind of bad omen. Maybe because he's not using his power that something bad will happen if he keeps it pent up.
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'm glad I read this in the daylight since I'm pretty wimpy at night. I think it was his obedience to his gang. Whatever the sacrifice of obedience meant, but Tommy did what his gang said even thought he didn't want to.
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too? I'm glad Uncle Will said something and especially reminded her that there is a KILLER out there. I actually like his character a lot, and even though I can't help but like Evie sometimes I think she is going to get what she deserves since she reminds me a lot of Daisy Buchanan.
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? Ah I just don't know. I keep trying to come up with theories, but I really just don't know. This book is so convoluted, and I almost feel like I miss a lot of references, but until I become more knowledgeable I won't ever get the references. All I can do is keep reading and learning.
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 this is going to backfire in the extreme. Never trust the press! He is going to throw her under the bus, and guess what since Naughty John likes the news so much he will probably be going after her soon. Woodhouse does not care about Evie. I think he was just doing whatever he could to get a story.
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?
That door in the floor will come into play again. I don’t know…maybe it will be used as an escape route. I’m not sure.
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 wasn’t expecting that at all, but I still feel the same about him. I’m sure Project Buffalo has something to do with the Diviners.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
I think she wanted to tell Mabel Rose all about the crime scene. Most importantly, she was going to tell her what she saw when she touched Ruta’s 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.
Jericho doesn’t seem interested in Mabel, at all! Maybe Sam and Evie will get together???
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?
Finally, Memphis acknowledged that crow. I think Gabe is okay, just okay. I hope we learn more about 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?
Theta seems to be very talented, but still lacks maturity. I wonder if she has some sort of intimate relationship with her boss??
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?
Figures! Sam’s ploy to get next to Uncle Will doesn’t surprise me. I think Uncle Will hired him because he recognized his ability, but he doesn’t believe his story.
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
I think something major is going to happen during the event. This, “something”, will require the Diviners assistance.
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?
Liquid Courage! I too, would have lied to Theta. She caused a lot of hurt and pain the last time she did that party trick.
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)?
I’m not sure about Memphis’ dreams. I think Isaiah is serving as some sort of communicator and Memphis needs to pay close attention.
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?
That makes two of us! Paddy is a jerk. I think Naughty John prayed on Tommy’s weakness, his need to “fit in”. He obeyed Paddy and ended up in a slaughter house. Next, Tommy obeys Naughty John and gets a face full of Evil Fairy Dust. Lol Poor Tommy!
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
No, I’m not surprised that he talked to Evie about her drinking. I’m sure her parents told him all about her “party trick” back in Ohio. I think he knows.???
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?
Oh, it's bound to come into play sooner or later. My thought on the secret door is how creepy to think there's a secret passage...where does it go? Is it blocked up? Can someone get in from somewhere else? I'm really worried about 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 wasn't expecting it either. It did change my opinion of him a little bit. He's not "all bad" just trying to survive I suppose. Project Buffalo...hmmmm, the city or the animal?
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
I thought it was about the vision she had when she touched Ruta's 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.
Yep, I thought that from the start. But now I'm wondering if Evie will eventually lean more toward Sam. Seems to me she'd be more interested in the bad boy.
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 also liked that line. Not sure about Gabe, but sounds like he could be a success.
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?
It's nice to see that Theta has a true friend in Henry. Seems the men in her life mostly want something from her. Also, Theta is truly talented.
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'm not sure if Uncle Will recognized Sam's ability, but I did find it odd that he trusted him so easily. I thought for sure Jericho would bust Sam. Isn't he smarter than that?
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
Not sure about this context, but when I think of comets, I think of the red comet in Game of Thrones, which meant different things to different people.
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?
Evie did this because she felt inferior to everyone else and wanted to impress them. This could have dire repurcussions if the wrong people find out about her abilities. I think I might want to keep this secret to myself.
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)?
Something is channeling through Isaiah, and I have a feeling it's not a good force.
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?
He wanted hands, but I don't think it mattered who they came from. A 12-year-old though...that's especially brutal and disturbing.
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
I'm not surprised. Not sure if he knew she was performing her party trick, but I do think he knows about it in general.
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?
I think it's something to do with recurring evil...or something evil being reincarnated (i.e. naughty John). Now we know the youths with special abilities are Diviners and they have a Mission! Henry was in her dream...is he a Diviner too? The hostess too?
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 am not sure I believe he's a reporter. I'm thinking something more sinister and there will be bad repurcussions.
@ Parvathy#23 – Yes, I agree. San has a different agenda that I first thought. Forgot about the Russian on the PC; thanks for the reminder.
#26 – I can’t figure out if the crow is just a messenger, or if it is Naughty John, or what.
#28 – Maybe because he was remembering that stolen kiss, too?
#31 – Yes, I think Isaiah is one of those two: vessel or prophet.
#32 – I think I have the obedience offering figured out…maybe. Could it be his blind obedience to the Street Kings? A sort of “worship not gods before me” kind of thing?
@ Clare#1 – Yes, it hooked me right away.
#4 – True, Evie is cocky and needy.
#5 – Multitasking? LOL!
#7 – Yes, I love museums, too. I even went online to see if it was a real place. No such luck.
#8 – Yes, that is what I meant. Her ‘party gift’ ability.
#10 – Spooky! And a church!
@ Turtlecollector#22 – Ah! So many different theories. We’ll have to remember you said so.
#23 – Yes, and that surprises me about Sam. Oh! I didn’t think about Sister Walker having a file on Project Buffalo.
#24 – A couple of you have said that now about the buckle, and that was my thought, so I’m going with it. Just needed validation. LOL!
#26 – I think Gabe will reappear. I just don’t know if he’ll be a victim of Naughty John, or healed by Memphis, or what.
#31 – Why Isaiah?
#32 – That’s what I was thinking! See my response to Parvathy.
@ Ashley Marie#23 – I totally agree; Sam’s is the coolest ability. Oh. I hadn’t considered that about Project Buffalo.
#25 – True.
#26 - **shivers too**
#27 – Yeah, Theta’s pretty young to be so jaded.
#28 – Well… this is a series, but let’s hope Bray ties up some in this book.
#29 – I was thinking that too, but then Turtlecollector changed my mind.
#30 – Yes, I picked up on Theta’s sadness, too.
#32 – Oh, good fable, or motto, or whatever.
#34 – Thanks for the info and the pic!
@ Sandy#12 – Man-oh-man! I need to get back to the In Death series. I did read that one, though. I think I need to read #13. Want to do a “buddy read”? Like in July? LOL!
#18 – Oh, you’re a hard nut to crack.
#19 – I remember feeling that way at 17, too.
#22 – I’m worried about that door in the floor, too! Eep!
#23 – Maybe not such a hard nut to crack, after all. LOL!
#24 – I think we’re getting a consensus here. Good.
#30 – Yes! I’m worried about the wrong people finding out about Evie’s ability, too!
#31 - That’s the word I was looking for, “channeling.” I concur.
#32 – Yes, a bit to b&d for me.
#34 – Yes!!! Why was Henry in her nightmare?
@ Emily#23 – LMBO! True. I feel the same way.
#26 – Oh! Now there’s an idea.
#28 – LOL! That’s okay, a lot of people are comparing Uncle Will to Professor Xavier.
#29 – Interesting. The comet could bring them all together, too.
#30 – Yet another reason not to drink in public.
#31 – Isaiah is creeping me out, too! LOL!
#32 – You am me, both! Big wimp here.
#35 – “Never trust the press!” I concur.
@ Pamela#24 – Yay! Someone else agrees about the buckle.
#25 – Yes, Jericho was all but oblivious to Mabel’s existence.
#27 – Oh! I hadn’t thought of that! Current or past tense?
#30 – Yes, she’s learning. Still, I hope Evie doesn’t regret warning Theta. But then again, she can’t exactly get specific, can she?
#32 – Well said!
Lisa Kay wrote: "@ Pamela#27 – Oh! I hadn’t thought of that! Current or past tense?
Current
This is the third time I have tried to post this.Lisa Kay wrote: "@ Turtlecollector
#22 – Ah! So many different theories. We’ll have to remember you said so.
#23 – Yes, and that surprises me about Sam. Oh! I didn’t think about Sister Walker having a file on..."
#31 The crow is following Memphis and is seen as a messenger. Little siblings follow around older siblings all the time and Isaiah seems to be 'channeling' something. Ergo, the crow symbolizes Isaiah and Memphis should be paying attention to him, not just wondering about asking Sister Walker about him. That was my train of thought.
@ Pamela - Ah! Interesting theory.
@ Turtlecollector - Got it. Thanks.
June 4 DQs: The Hearts of Men-- And Death Shall FleePg.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?
Evie's a girl that can think on her feet; I think her and Jericho will end up fleeing down there while being chased by some manner of evil. Her and Jericho because it's been stated he's a big guy, so he's going to have to heave the door open in a pinch.
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'm really tired and didn't want to get behind...so I don't even remember where Project Buffalo was mentioned. I'm going to agree with Ashley Marie's post and say I think it's who Sam is after. Lol.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
Probably about one of her creepy dream experiences.
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.
This is what I see happening: Evie and Jericho spend more time together because of this crazy cult murder business, he eventually tells her more about his past (which is sounding more and more tragic after Evie jabs him with the "you should live a little kiddo" remark), she feels guilty for judging him, and the rocky romantic love triangle ensues. I feel bad for poor Mabel, she'll end up getting the short end of the stick most likely. :[
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?
Everyone introduced seems pretty significant so far...the pattern has been that somebody is introduced and killed for a sacrifice in a single chapter, but I think Gabe might end up dying, which will pull Memphis into the whole crazy-evil-cult-murder-mastermind business. That and his creepy brother. The power of christ compels! Yeesh.
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?
That Theta is very confident and very rude. But I like her in-your-face attitude.
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 wish we could get more insight on Uncle Will and if he actually CAN recognize Diviners or not. I think it's extremely likely though, why else would he agree to Sam accompanying Evie and Jericho on their investigation? He literally just met him and I'm pretty sure he knows Evie wasn't lying about Sam being a thief.
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
I think "Solomon's Comet" will signify the return of Diviners, since there have been Diviners in the past. It'll probably be the climax of the story, where our favourite limb-dismembering-evil-mastermind will be trying to bring about the end of the world or something (there have been plenty of apocalypse references to at least expect that).
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?
Evie was drunk and not thinking straight. Looking into a friend's past and seeing something your friend wouldn't want to share is intrusive, and she paled, so she knew it was wrong. I would have lied too. I wouldn't say they'd be friends very long if Evie had told the truth.
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)?
Honestly? He's reminding me a little TOO much of a creepy demonic possession movie. There's a reason I don't watch horror movies anymore. If he has any more creepy monologues to spout off, I think I'll just skip them. I'm a big baby T_T
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 think most of it went over my head. But with the eyes and the hands, it seems like Naughty John is trying to build himself a corporeal body? Although he seems real enough, he's originally a spirit, and otherwise I can't think of what the sacrifices are for. Unless he's trying to summon something else. Ugh. I feel like the "obedience" offering was something like he needed "hands" to serve his purpose, and they had to be given willingly. Or something. >_>
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
I never thought of him knowing about her "party-trick", but that's a valid motivation for bringing it up. Again, I wish I knew if Uncle Will could sense/pick out Diviners for sure. If so, maybe he's able to tell when Evie's used her power?
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 hostess at the end who was frantically trying to get her out of the dream. The hostess must also be a Diviner, and Evie is probably extremely vulnerable because she has no idea how to use her powers.
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?
She was doing so well, here I'd thought she'd withstand the peer pressure. But there it is, advertising that her Uncle doesn't have to agree on. I think her Uncle will know it was her, but won't really have any solid proof to reprimand her with.
@ Kayla#23 – It is in “The Heart’s of Men” chapter, when Sam is in the museum looking for his jacket. He comes across some newspaper clippings, and dismissed them as just spooky, invented tales. Then he notices that one mentions Project Buffalo and suddenly starts shaking.
#25 – Agreed. Evie jabbing him with that remark pushed his button.
#26 – I’m thinking you could be right.
#29 - “…where our favourite limb-dismembering-evil-mastermind will be trying to bring about the end of the world…”
Why do you always make me laugh at inappropriate things?
#31 – Big Baby II, here.
#32 – I agree about the “build a body” thing.
#34 – Yeah, I was wondering about the hostess, too.
@Lisa Kay:#23 - Oh, right right. Well then yes, I do agree with Ashley Marie wholeheartedly. That reaction plus his mirror performance makes me think he wants revenge because of them.
#29 - Because you need to make light of all this creepy stuff like I do so you don't think about it later? :D (I, for one, do NOT want to have nightmares about disemboweled house pets D; )
**chuckles** #29 - I'm with you on that! Poor dog. Ick.
Lisa Kay wrote: "**chuckles** #29 - I'm with you on that! Poor dog. Ick."I agree with you and Kayla on this one. The dog really bugged me :( Also, the murder. That bugged me, too. lol.
Does anyone else think this book is REALLY dark for YA? I know it's meant to be for more mature readers, but still!
@Ashley Marie - I am still not sure why it has been classified as YA? Granted, I don't know much about YA as a genre, but I agree, it is really dark and quite complex. Is it just because the main characters are mostly in their late teens?
NancyHelen wrote: "@Ashley Marie - I am still not sure why it has been classified as YA? Granted, I don't know much about YA as a genre, but I agree, it is really dark and quite complex. Is it just because the main c..."That's all I can think of to shelve it as YA so far. It isn't quite as gory as some of the adult novels I've read, but it's close!
Yes, I would, if I had to mark it as YA, put in on my "ya-mature" shelf.
I'm not going to be around much today. Maybe later tonight. Sandy's very reliable, so I'm sure the DQs are coming.
Yep, they'll be up within the hour! :-)
DQ: Funny How Things Work Out --- The House on the Hill (p. 191-245)36. So Henry has gifts of his own…dreamwalking. I like it. Did you think he had special abilities when he appeared in Evie’s dream? Who do you think Louis might be? A brother? Lover? Friend?
37. We learn more about the Diviners from Sister Walker. Did you think it was odd that she provided a rational explanation for Isaiah’s nighttime trances? I would have thought her first suspicion would be some kind of paranormal activity at work.
38. Why doesn’t Memphis tell Sister Walker about his healing abilities? And, knowing that Isaiah has gifts, why didn’t Sister Walker be more careful with the chair??
39. The Pillar Of Fire Church…now there are some lovely people! (Did anyone else think of the anti-vampire cult on True Blood?) Did you think at this point that one of them could be behind the murders, especially when Evie saw the pendant on Brother Jacob Call. Brother Call calls it protection from the Beast, which is interesting because I had been thinking it was a sinister symbol.
40. What are your impressions of Jericho? I had been expecting him to be a dashing hero (not sure why I thought that). He’s quiet, studious, very smart, and not socially adept. He was clearly uncomfortable posing as Evie’s husband. Do you think he may become more “heroic” as the novel progresses?
41. Thoughts on the Brethren cult? Their story is interesting, but I can’t imagine why anyone would think it’s a good idea to raise the anti-Christ. Who took the missing page that tells how to destroy the Beast?
42. The killings appear to be “offerings” of the Harlot Adorned and the Idle son (offerings 5 & 6). Did “offerings” 1 – 4 take place in the past?
43. So now we have a mysterious relationship between Jericho and Marlowe (whom I thought of as Tony Stark). What did Marlowe do for (to?) Jericho? What are the meds for? Something to do with his hand? Why does Jericho call him “Sir”?
44. Uncle Will’s mystery deepens. We know he used to work for the government (doing what?), and “he was never quite the same after what happened with Rotke.”(kindle p. 218) Any speculations?
45. Why is Jericho so cold to Mabel? Does he have something against her parents’ politics?
46. We learn about the time Memphis lost his powers. What a sad story. Who was the man in his vision who asked him to choose life or death? Thoughts on this scene?
47. We get the backstory on the Knowles house (of course I thought of Beyonce). Very creepy tale. Who is Mr. Hobbes? Was this his first foray into evildoing, or has he been around much longer? Is he Naughty John?
48. What do you think of the world-building in this book? I think the author’s doing a great job giving us information gradually.
Ashley Marie wrote: "Lisa Kay wrote: "**chuckles** #29 - I'm with you on that! Poor dog. Ick."I agree with you and Kayla on this one. The dog really bugged me :( Also, the murder. That bugged me, too. lol.
Do..."
Yes, it's very dark. I think that YA is pushing the boundaries more and more with violence and sex. The content is mature, but the characters aren't.
June 4 DQs: The Hearts of Men-- And Death Shall Flee 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?
Isn't it always. I think it will be used aa a means of escape,but from who I don't know.
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 think project Buffalo is significant for Sam personally, it may have something to do with the disappearance of his mother. And yes his talent (or gift) comes in handy when you are a thief.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
I think the vision she had 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.
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'm not sure the crow is something evil, it may be a messenger, that Memphis needs to see or learn something in his dream. I liked that line about finding THE girl to. Memphis is a very sensitive boy I think. I don't know about Gabe, he is a part of Memphis's life, but may not have a large role to play.
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 liked that part, it showed that Theta also has a sensitive side.
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?
Smart, and what he did with Jericho's wallet wasn't to surprising he sees an oppertunity and takes it.
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
Comets usually have significance especially when there is a "religious" motive.
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?
Yes, I think she is protecting Theta.
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)?
I think Isaiah is channeling Hobbes/Naughty John.
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?
It's all very ritualistic to me and it changes all the time, almost like there are certain steps that need to be taken to reach a final goal.
33. Were you surprised that Uncle Will talked to Evie about her drinking? Think he knew she was doing her ‘party trick,’ too?
No to both.
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?
What stood out in the dream, for me was that the dream seemed more real.
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?
He handled her, he found her weakness, that she wants to help the people close to her.
@Sandy:"The content is mature, but the characters aren't."
That's exactly what I've been thinking, it kind of bugs me. The writing is fantastic, the content is very dark, and then we have Evie the ditz who loves to drink and party.
DQ: Funny How Things Work Out --- The House on the Hill (p. 191-245)
36. So Henry has gifts of his own…dreamwalking. I like it. Did you think he had special abilities when he appeared in Evie’s dream? Who do you think Louis might be? A brother? Lover? Friend?
I didn't think much of it in Evie's dream, I was more focused on the lady that spoke to her and told her to get out at the end. I'm not sure about Louis, and I don't want to go back and read the part where he's mentioned again. I'll wait and see what other people think!
37. We learn more about the Diviners from Sister Walker. Did you think it was odd that she provided a rational explanation for Isaiah’s nighttime trances? I would have thought her first suspicion would be some kind of paranormal activity at work.
Rational as it gets in a paranormal fantasy at least. Memphis thinks there's more to it, and I'm inclined to believe him. Isaiah doesn't just repeat things, he sees things. That's how he's reading cards, isn't it? I think Sister Walker is afraid, and she desperately wants to think something else is causing problems. Something other than Diviners and evil beings.
38. Why doesn’t Memphis tell Sister Walker about his healing abilities? And, knowing that Isaiah has gifts, why didn’t Sister Walker be more careful with the chair??
I think simply because it's not something that's easy for him to talk about. I wouldn't hesitate to say the poor guy is scarred for life, thinking his mother's death was his fault. I don't think she heeded Isaiah's warning because, like I said, she's afraid and was trying to ignore the signs about Diviners she's been seeing. Maybe after her little tumble, she'll start to take stuff more seriously?
39. The Pillar Of Fire Church…now there are some lovely people! (Did anyone else think of the anti-vampire cult on True Blood?) Did you think at this point that one of them could be behind the murders, especially when Evie saw the pendant on Brother Jacob Call. Brother Call calls it protection from the Beast, which is interesting because I had been thinking it was a sinister symbol.
I think one of them definitely could be. As for the pendant being "protection", we've already found out the Brethren are the ones likely trying to raise the Beast, so protection may just refer to being recognizable as his/its followers. And hopefully if he notices, he won't kill them.
40. What are your impressions of Jericho? I had been expecting him to be a dashing hero (not sure why I thought that). He’s quiet, studious, very smart, and not socially adept. He was clearly uncomfortable posing as Evie’s husband. Do you think he may become more “heroic” as the novel progresses?
If it's to save Evie, yes. He's totally going to fall for her, and Evie won't even have to feel guilty, because Mabel is going to go gaga over the guy that saved her in the alley. How do I know? 1. He saved her. 2. He said he'd never forget her name, and we just read a whole build-up of how much she hates being in her mother's shadow.
41. Thoughts on the Brethren cult? Their story is interesting, but I can’t imagine why anyone would think it’s a good idea to raise the anti-Christ. Who took the missing page that tells how to destroy the Beast?
Because being off the rocker is a prerequisite to becoming a cultist obviously. Sane people need not apply.
I'm not sure about the missing page, I feel like a book with that kind of disturbing content wouldn't be available to the general public. So either the professor guy or someone close to him ripped it out, or it was ripped out by a cultist before the book came into the library's possession.
42. The killings appear to be “offerings” of the Harlot Adorned and the Idle son (offerings 5 & 6). Did “offerings” 1 – 4 take place in the past?
My eReader's dead, but I wanted to go and look at the name's of the first four offerings again. I think the fire may have been an offering, and no one ever had smallpox to begin with. The offerings only being half-finished would also make sense with Naughty John being contacted with a Ouija board. He was a wandering spirit, they didn't spell goodbye, and then Naughty John was able to recruit followers to continue the work to raise him.
43. So now we have a mysterious relationship between Jericho and Marlowe (whom I thought of as Tony Stark). What did Marlowe do for (to?) Jericho? What are the meds for? Something to do with his hand? Why does Jericho call him “Sir”?
Well we know Marlowe is a big wig for a company that allegedly makes appliances and planes(?) from that radio ad. Multiple people have commented on Jericho's size saying "What are you feeding him?"...suspicious vitamin supplements? Coincidence? I think not. I was wondering if Marlowe might be his father/other relative, because meeting him is a "once a year" ritual. A pretty good reason to meet with someone you don't like is because you're family.
44. Uncle Will’s mystery deepens. We know he used to work for the government (doing what?), and “he was never quite the same after what happened with Rotke.”(kindle p. 218) Any speculations?
It was mentioned somewhere that Diviners don't want to fall into the wrong hands (I wish I could remember who said it or where it was)...I wonder if maybe the government was studying people with special powers? And something bad happened to "Rotke" and Uncle Will feels guilty?
45. Why is Jericho so cold to Mabel? Does he have something against her parents’ politics?
I don't know if it's the politics he's against, or the fact that Mabel appears to follow her parent's ideals without a second thought. I think it has something to do with his mysterious past, and he hates himself or other people for not thinking for themselves.
46. We learn about the time Memphis lost his powers. What a sad story. Who was the man in his vision who asked him to choose life or death? Thoughts on this scene?
I've been watching too much Supernatural lately, but the guy reminded me of Death (one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, which has also been on my mind since there was a chapter named that). Anyway, I thought it seemed like reaper-type creature who came for Memphis' mother's soul, and then ended up taking Memphis' power, too.
47. We get the backstory on the Knowles house (of course I thought of Beyonce). Very creepy tale. Who is Mr. Hobbes? Was this his first foray into evildoing, or has he been around much longer? Is he Naughty John?
LOL. That's exactly what I thought, too. >_< I don't know, but the name John Hobbes we saw before makes me think he is Naughty John. I can't go back and read what the offerings were right now, but I think the 3 servants were the first 3 offerings, and then burning that house in the Brethren village was the fourth.
48. What do you think of the world-building in this book? I think the author’s doing a great job giving us information gradually.
I like what she's done with the setting, I really feel like I'm in 1920's America when I'm reading. But this book is on the longer side, and I'm wondering how relevant all of these characters are going to be to this books plot. She's stated there will be a sequel, so I feel like she's taking a lot of time to set up stuff that might not be relevant right now.
5 June DQ: Funny How Things Work Out --- The House on the Hill36. So Henry has gifts of his own…dreamwalking. I like it. Did you think he had special abilities when he appeared in Evie’s dream? Who do you think Louis might be? A brother? Lover? Friend?
Maybe Henry has an other gift to, all the "Diviners" seems to be able to walk in dreams or have prophetic dreams. When he appeared in Evie's dream I thought he had to have an ability, I didn't suspect it when we first saw him though. I think Louis is a brother.
37. We learn more about the Diviners from Sister Walker. Did you think it was odd that she provided a rational explanation for Isaiah’s nighttime trances? I would have thought her first suspicion would be some kind of paranormal activity at work.
Hmmm... no I think she is hiding something from Memphis, she came to New York specifically for Memphis and his ability.
38. Why doesn’t Memphis tell Sister Walker about his healing abilities? And, knowing that Isaiah has gifts, why didn’t Sister Walker be more careful with the chair??
I think the same reason why Sister Walker didn't tell Memphis the truth about Isaiahs dreams and sleepwalking.
39. The Pillar Of Fire Church…now there are some lovely people! (Did anyone else think of the anti-vampire cult on True Blood?) Did you think at this point that one of them could be behind the murders, especially when Evie saw the pendant on Brother Jacob Call. Brother Call calls it protection from the Beast, which is interesting because I had been thinking it was a sinister symbol.
It reminded me of the fellowship fo the sun too. I think Jacob Call doesn't know what the symbol really means, I have a feeling the Pillar of Fire church is the next victim.
40. What are your impressions of Jericho? I had been expecting him to be a dashing hero (not sure why I thought that). He’s quiet, studious, very smart, and not socially adept. He was clearly uncomfortable posing as Evie’s husband. Do you think he may become more “heroic” as the novel progresses?
41. Thoughts on the Brethren cult? Their story is interesting, but I can’t imagine why anyone would think it’s a good idea to raise the anti-Christ. Who took the missing page that tells how to destroy the Beast?
Hobbes?
42. The killings appear to be “offerings” of the Harlot Adorned and the Idle son (offerings 5 & 6). Did “offerings” 1 – 4 take place in the past?
I think so, they took place when the Brethren started. Or when Hobbes started to use the ideas of the Brethren for his own purposes.
43. So now we have a mysterious relationship between Jericho and Marlowe (whom I thought of as Tony Stark). What did Marlowe do for (to?) Jericho? What are the meds for? Something to do with his hand? Why does Jericho call him “Sir”?
Maybe Marlow "saved" Jericho.
44. Uncle Will’s mystery deepens. We know he used to work for the government (doing what?), and “he was never quite the same after what happened with Rotke.”(kindle p. 218) Any speculations?
45. Why is Jericho so cold to Mabel? Does he have something against her parents’ politics?
It's not about politics I think. He wants Mabel to tell her own opinions, not the ones her parents are planting in her head.
46. We learn about the time Memphis lost his powers. What a sad story. Who was the man in his vision who asked him to choose life or death? Thoughts on this scene?
I think the man was Hobbes.
47. We get the backstory on the Knowles house (of course I thought of Beyonce). Very creepy tale. Who is Mr. Hobbes? Was this his first foray into evildoing, or has he been around much longer? Is he Naughty John?
He has been around much longer, and I think he is Naughty John.
48. What do you think of the world-building in this book? I think the author’s doing a great job giving us information gradually.
Yes I like the world she is creating, but she could move a bit faster. She gives a lot of information in very small doses.
36. So Henry has gifts of his own…dreamwalking. I like it. Did you think he had special abilities when he appeared in Evie’s dream? Who do you think Louis might be? A brother? Lover? Friend?Yes, I did think he had special abilities especially when the hostess said to Evie that she is not supposed to be there. Louis might be a brother
37. We learn more about the Diviners from Sister Walker. Did you think it was odd that she provided a rational explanation for Isaiah’s nighttime trances? I would have thought her first suspicion would be some kind of paranormal activity at work.
I did find it odd. I thought she would have been the first one to notice the signs especially since she knows about the diviners. Even if Isaiah did hear about Unc Will from the newspaper that doesn't explain him coming up with the whole new term of "diviners". Sister Walker also seem to be hiding something and I don't think she is one of the good guys. She did say she came there for Memphis
38. Why doesn’t Memphis tell Sister Walker about his healing abilities? And, knowing that Isaiah has gifts, why didn’t Sister Walker be more careful with the chair??
Curious that she used the chair even after getting warned by Isaiah. May be Sister Walker hasn't yet realized Isaiah has the power to see the future. All she knows is that he is a psychic but exactly what kind might still be a mystery.
39. The Pillar Of Fire Church…now there are some lovely people! (Did anyone else think of the anti-vampire cult on True Blood?) Did you think at this point that one of them could be behind the murders, especially when Evie saw the pendant on Brother Jacob Call. Brother Call calls it protection from the Beast, which is interesting because I had been thinking it was a sinister symbol.
I thought about True Blood too. Especially that part where Sookie acts as a newly wed to get into the anti vampire cult to save the vampire who turned Eric. I kept seeing those people when I read about the Pillar of Fire Church. The Pillars of Fire Church feels like an off shoot of the original cult.
40. What are your impressions of Jericho? I had been expecting him to be a dashing hero (not sure why I thought that). He’s quiet, studious, very smart, and not socially adept. He was clearly uncomfortable posing as Evie’s husband. Do you think he may become more “heroic” as the novel progresses?
I am not much of a fan of Jericho. In fact I am rooting for Sam. Jericho does seem boring but I think there is more to his story. He might have powers. May be he turns into someone else when he gets to excited that is why he is following the dull act
41. Thoughts on the Brethren cult? Their story is interesting, but I can’t imagine why anyone would think it’s a good idea to raise the anti-Christ. Who took the missing page that tells how to destroy the Beast?
Here is what I think. The Brethren may intially started out like a cult which follows the true teaching of God and somewhere along the line they realized the real world was flawed and decided to end it so that they can create a world which they might believe will be according to God's specification. There plan if going by the revelations is to bring the anti Christ to destroy the world then destroy the anti Christ to take back the world. So the pages might have been torn out to prevent anyone else form killing the beast. This thing is turning out exactly like Dexter with the supernatural element
42. The killings appear to be “offerings” of the Harlot Adorned and the Idle son (offerings 5 & 6). Did “offerings” 1 – 4 take place in the past?
He might have completed the first four during the time of Ida and now after coming back he must have started fulfilling the rest
43. So now we have a mysterious relationship between Jericho and Marlowe (whom I thought of as Tony Stark). What did Marlowe do for (to?) Jericho? What are the meds for? Something to do with his hand? Why does Jericho call him “Sir”?
May be Jericho is one of the super soldier Iron man type that Marlowe created for winning the war in a secret project funded by the government. Unc Will must have worked on it creating their very own diviners. Now Jericho is trying to hide his powers and those are the only medications that can help him do so.
44. Uncle Will’s mystery deepens. We know he used to work for the government (doing what?), and “he was never quite the same after what happened with Rotke.”(kindle p. 218) Any speculations?
Not at the moment. However I think he had to do something with creating people with special powers.
45. Why is Jericho so cold to Mabel? Does he have something against her parents’ politics?
I think he just hates people who can't think for themselves. Might be a reflection on his past
46. We learn about the time Memphis lost his powers. What a sad story. Who was the man in his vision who asked him to choose life or death? Thoughts on this scene?
Equally confused. Though I think the man was a reaper
47. We get the backstory on the Knowles house (of course I thought of Beyonce). Very creepy tale. Who is Mr. Hobbes? Was this his first foray into evildoing, or has he been around much longer? Is he Naughty John?
He is naughty John. Must have been the ghost of the John the one who started the Brethren. Come back to end the world and he must have been carrying out the offerings in that house
48. What do you think of the world-building in this book? I think the author’s doing a great job giving us information gradually.
Yes and really entertaining. May be I will try some of her other books.
DQ: Funny How Things Work Out --- The House on the Hill (p. 191-245)36. So Henry has gifts of his own…dreamwalking. I like it. Did you think he had special abilities when he appeared in Evie’s dream? Who do you think Louis might be? A brother? Lover? Friend?
No, I didn’t think he had any sort of ability. I think Louis is a friend or family member.
37. We learn more about the Diviners from Sister Walker. Did you think it was odd that she provided a rational explanation for Isaiah’s nighttime trances? I would have thought her first suspicion would be some kind of paranormal activity at work.
Sister Walker tried to provide a rational explanation, but Memphis knew better.
38. Why doesn’t Memphis tell Sister Walker about his healing abilities? And, knowing that Isaiah has gifts, why didn’t Sister Walker be more careful with the chair??
I think Sister Walker underestimated young Isaiah’s gift of foresight.
39. The Pillar Of Fire Church…now there are some lovely people! (Did anyone else think of the anti-vampire cult on True Blood?) Did you think at this point that one of them could be behind the murders, especially when Evie saw the pendant on Brother Jacob Call. Brother Call calls it protection from the Beast, which is interesting because I had been thinking it was a sinister symbol.
I think one of them could be behind the murders. I’m not convinced that Brother Call can be trusted, they’re all so strange!
40. What are your impressions of Jericho? I had been expecting him to be a dashing hero (not sure why I thought that). He’s quiet, studious, very smart, and not socially adept. He was clearly uncomfortable posing as Evie’s husband. Do you think he may become more “heroic” as the novel progresses?
I think Jericho is busy hiding his talents. Yes, I believe he will become “heroic” when the time is right. We saw a different side of Jericho in the dining room of the Waldorf- Astoria. Why did Marlowe say “Look at you, Jericho. You’re a walking miracle. The great hope.”????
41. Thoughts on the Brethren cult? Their story is interesting, but I can’t imagine why anyone would think it’s a good idea to raise the anti-Christ. Who took the missing page that tells how to destroy the Beast?
I think the Brethren cult is a force to be reckoned with. The members believe it is their duty, their right, to raise the anti-Christ. I think one of the members removed the the page.
42. The killings appear to be “offerings” of the Harlot Adorned and the Idle son (offerings 5 & 6). Did “offerings” 1 – 4 take place in the past?
I believe the first few offerings took place in the past. Maybe, just maybe, they’re picking up where they left off??
43. So now we have a mysterious relationship between Jericho and Marlowe (whom I thought of as Tony Stark). What did Marlowe do for (to?) Jericho? What are the meds for? Something to do with his hand? Why does Jericho call him “Sir”?
This Marlowe guy just came out of left field. I have a feeling that Jericho’ s powers must be suppressed with medication.
44. Uncle Will’s mystery deepens. We know he used to work for the government (doing what?), and “he was never quite the same after what happened with Rotke.”(kindle p. 218) Any speculations?
Yeah, we get little bits and pieces of Uncle Will. I’ve got nothings.
45. Why is Jericho so cold to Mabel? Does he have something against her parents’ politics?
I don’t think Jericho has anything against her parents’ politics. Jericho seems to value independent thinking.
46. We learn about the time Memphis lost his powers. What a sad story. Who was the man in his vision who asked him to choose life or death? Thoughts on this scene?
The man in his vision was the personification of death, ready to take his mother’s soul. Memphis thought he could “cheat death”, but you can’t heal the dead.
47. We get the backstory on the Knowles house (of course I thought of Beyonce). Very creepy tale. Who is Mr. Hobbes? Was this his first foray into evildoing, or has he been around much longer? Is he Naughty John?
Ida and Mr. Hobbs are wicked people. Mr. Hobbes could be Naughty John.
48. What do you think of the world-building in this book? I think the author’s doing a great job giving us information gradually.
I think the author’s doing a wonderful job building this story. However, I find a few of the characters forgettable.
DQ: Funny How Things Work Out --- The House on the Hill (p. 191-245)36. So Henry has gifts of his own…dreamwalking. I like it. Did you think he had special abilities when he appeared in Evie’s dream? Who do you think Louis might be? A brother? Lover? Friend?
A lot of people in this story has been revealed to have abilities so far so it is not as surprising to me anymore when a new one is discovered. I didn't think anything of him being in her dream. I think Louis is an old boyfriend.
37. We learn more about the Diviners from Sister Walker. Did you think it was odd that she provided a rational explanation for Isaiah’s nighttime trances? I would have thought her first suspicion would be some kind of paranormal activity at work.
I think she does think it is paranormal activity, she doesn't want Memphis to know. Of course, he is already thinking it.
38. Why doesn’t Memphis tell Sister Walker about his healing abilities? And, knowing that Isaiah has gifts, why didn’t Sister Walker be more careful with the chair??
For the same reason she doesn't tell him. He doesn't want her to know about the abilities. Of course she already does.
39. The Pillar Of Fire Church…now there are some lovely people! (Did anyone else think of the anti-vampire cult on True Blood?) Did you think at this point that one of them could be behind the murders, especially when Evie saw the pendant on Brother Jacob Call. Brother Call calls it protection from the Beast, which is interesting because I had been thinking it was a sinister symbol.
I definitely thought one of them could be behind the killings. Either that or whoever is doing it is framing them, but the symbols are too important for me to really consider that.
40. What are your impressions of Jericho? I had been expecting him to be a dashing hero (not sure why I thought that). He’s quiet, studious, very smart, and not socially adept. He was clearly uncomfortable posing as Evie’s husband. Do you think he may become more “heroic” as the novel progresses?
He seems very passive so far. He does not initiate anything and just goes along with the others. He doesn't seem to catch on to subtle clues very easily. There are hints that he is not what he seems, though, so he still might turn out to have more "heroic" qualities.>
41. Thoughts on the Brethren cult? Their story is interesting, but I can’t imagine why anyone would think it’s a good idea to raise the anti-Christ. Who took the missing page that tells how to destroy the Beast?
The cult seems to be the opposite of what they say they are. I don't know who stole the page, but I wouldn't be surprised if Sam ends up being the one who gets it back.
42. The killings appear to be “offerings” of the Harlot Adorned and the Idle son (offerings 5 & 6). Did “offerings” 1 – 4 take place in the past?
It seems like they should have taken place in the past but who knows how long ago in the past. I agree that the fire that supposedly made the cult extinct could be the start of everything.
43. So now we have a mysterious relationship between Jericho and Marlowe (whom I thought of as Tony Stark). What did Marlowe do for (to?) Jericho? What are the meds for? Something to do with his hand? Why does Jericho call him “Sir”?
I am back to Project Buffalo again here. All the secrecy and files and meds makes me think of secret testing of civilians. Tracking people to see how they react in the same situation given different "help/accessories".
44. Uncle Will’s mystery deepens. We know he used to work for the government (doing what?), and “he was never quite the same after what happened with Rotke.”(kindle p. 218) Any speculations?
I also got the impression that he may still be working secretly for the government. I also thought that maybe Jericho was sent to watch him.
45. Why is Jericho so cold to Mabel? Does he have something against her parents’ politics?
I think he just doesn't have very many people skills. And he wants people to think for themselves and not necessarily just follow what they have been told by authority figures.
46. We learn about the time Memphis lost his powers. What a sad story. Who was the man in his vision who asked him to choose life or death? Thoughts on this scene?
I thought this was a very sad chapter. He loved his mom so much, he tried to do all he could to save her no matter what it would cost him, even though his mother told him not to do it. It showed his loyalty to his family.
47. We get the backstory on the Knowles house (of course I thought of Beyonce). Very creepy tale. Who is Mr. Hobbes? Was this his first foray into evildoing, or has he been around much longer? Is he Naughty John?
I think he has been around awhile since he seems to have his procedures perfected. I am not sure who I think he really is though. Maybe he keeps living as long as he can continue to kill people and like the vampires in Twilight, has to move to a different place every so often so that no one knows he isn't aging.
48. What do you think of the world-building in this book? I think the author’s doing a great job giving us information gradually.
The author is doing a great job of taking us through the story slowly so we can assimilate all the information and not get too lost with all the different characters.
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On re-reading I think that Marlowe is Jericho's father. As someone said ^^ he calls him 'sir' and the yearly meetings and the tension just leads me to think that. Ok, time to read the next section...
@ Imke#23 – I agree. Project Buffalo is somehow connected to the disappearance of Sam’s mother. Seems Government in nature, too.
#26 – It could be that the crow is just a messenger, but it is still creeping me out every time it makes an appearance.
#27 – I agree. Made Theta “softer.”
#31 – That is what I think. I just don’t know if that is good or bad. It’s always good to have insight into the other side’s game plan, but if it is possession… uh… not so good.
#35 – Ah! Yes. Good point. The dream did seem more real.
#37 – I agree. Sister Walker is hiding something.
#39 – Really?!?
#42 – I’m leaning towards agreeing with you. I have to leave my options open, though. LOL!
@ KaylaYour response to Sandy – I agree. I think the book is really good, with regards to writing and setting, but darker than I was expecting. And I wish Evie would grow up already.
#37 – Great point about Isaiah.
#39 – Oh, good point. I hadn’t thought about them be recognizable as followers. That makes sense. Thanks!
#40 – LOL! You are probably right, though.
#41 – Yeah, this part has me stumped.
#43 – Wow. I hadn’t thought of that. Could be!
#44 – Yeah, there is certainly some guilt going on there.
#46 – Yeah, I didn’t like that part about Memphis’ mother. To me, a person’s destination in the afterlife is based solely on them. This implied otherwise.
#47 – I’m think John Hobbes is Naughty John, or some amalgam of him.
@ Parvathy#36 – Oh. We’re getting several people thinking Louise is the brother. Hmmm…
#41 – Whoa.
#46 – I agree; the guy was a reaper.
#48 – I think I’ll try some of this author’s other books, too.
@ Pamela#37 – I think Memphis is right.
#38 – I agree.
#39 – Definitely strange!
#40 – I think the only part of the book that made me laugh out loud was when Jericho punched Sam. LOL!
#42 – I think so, too.
#43 – So interesting. I hadn’t thought of this, but several of you think so… and it makes sense.
@ Turtlecollector#36 – I was thinking old boyfriend, too. However, the consensus is brother. We’ll see!
#37 – That begs the question - why doesn’t she want Memphis to know?
#41 – Oh! Good thought.
#43 – Hmmmmm…
#44 – Whoa!
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Pg.246-309; Submitted by Lisa Kay
49. Maybe I’ve watched too many old movies, but I thought “The Hotsy Totsy” chapter was very well done. I could picture the setting, the characters, the raid. You?
50. BOOK QUOTE: Did any of them have a power so frightening it had to be kept locked down tight? -- Did I miss something? Isn’t this the first inkling we’ve had that Theta has powers?
51. Looks like Theta and Memphis are attracted to one another. I didn’t see that coming, either. Do you think they match up well? They certainly have something to talk about – the exact same dream! Any thoughts on what it means?
52. Well, Naughty John’s victims are certainly diverse. Why did he take Eugene Meriwether’s feet? Is this really just a “build a body” thing, or is it related to specific offerings?
53. Were you surprised that Uncle Will decided to send Evie back to Ohio after one infraction – even given it was as severe as it was. On the heels of that came Mabel calling her selfish. Think these things will help Evie grow up and think before she acts impulsively?
54. So…Uncle Will had no idea of Evie’s powers. Comments on the glove reveal scene? Who was the woman Evie saw? What was her relationship to Uncle Will?
55. We get a little more on Jericho’s past: infantile paralysis, time in an iron lung, and the eventual desertion by his family, his ability to forgive, and his lack of belief in miracles. Comments? BOOKQUOTE: How about his cryptic comment, “They tried something new. I was lucky; it worked.” Whatever was it that really worked?
56. Oh, poor Evie. What a terrible thing to discover about how you mother feels about you. Explains her acting out. And we discover that her ability came after James’ death. Comments. However, just when I think she’s growing up, she lies about Reporter Woodhouse’s article and poses for the shutterbug.
57. Could you have done what Evie did with Eugene Meriwether’s ring? What are the headaches about? Will Uncle Will know?
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50. I thought I missed it too. But I guess it would make sense she has something!
51.I didn't see this coming, but I was soooooo glad when we finally have those two story lines meeting up. This was why I gave up on the book the first time around, I was just getting annoyed that the lines weren't crossing. I like the two of them together, I think they suit somehow
52. Gross! I think it is building a body - creating a physical presence
53. I think Unc was more upset at himself. He felt he had let her and her family down by now being able to get her to obey just one rule. She is so bloody selfish that I don't think she quite got that it wasn't about her. He feels responsible for her
54. I was surprised he didn't know. But then he also didn't seem toooo shocked so I think he does believe in this kind of thing. I would love to know who the woman was. Some old flame. How very ducky!
55. I want to know what was tried that made him better, but he doesn't think is a miracle. And if Marlowe is part of jericho's family it explains the tenseness between them
56. Yes, I felt for her with that. But I COULD NOT BELIEVE she still went with the whole reporter thing. Urgh! I want to strangle-ski the little brat
57. That was totally gross, kudos to her for being able to do it. I think she gets headaches from the whole process. It must be difficult to concentrate like that.
I have kept up with the reading, but I am afraid I missed a couple of days of questions - so rather than going over that I'll just pick up here.Incidentally, Evie unfortunately is still annoying me...although at least in this section there is some evidence that she is going to mature, finally.
49. Maybe I’ve watched too many old movies, but I thought “The Hotsy Totsy” chapter was very well done. I could picture the setting, the characters, the raid. You?
I agree. I loved the way it switched from scene to scene in the chapter. I found myself turning the pages quicker and quicker to see what happened
50. BOOK QUOTE: Did any of them have a power so frightening it had to be kept locked down tight? -- Did I miss something? Isn’t this the first inkling we’ve had that Theta has powers?
I think you're right - It is the first inkling, but all of the young characters have been brought together for a reason, so it does seem reasonable that she would also be gifted
51. Looks like Theta and Memphis are attracted to one another. I didn’t see that coming, either. Do you think they match up well? They certainly have something to talk about – the exact same dream! Any thoughts on what it means?
Nor did I but I like it. I think there is a lot more to Theta than we first knew and I think they match up really well. I am not sure what the same dream means, but I think it is portentous
52. Well, Naughty John’s victims are certainly diverse. Why did he take Eugene Meriwether’s feet? Is this really just a “build a body” thing, or is it related to specific offerings?
I also think that, as it seems the murderer is actually a ghost, he is trying to create a body. Although perhaps not for himself, rather for the Beast that he is summoning
53. Were you surprised that Uncle Will decided to send Evie back to Ohio after one infraction – even given it was as severe as it was. On the heels of that came Mabel calling her selfish. Think these things will help Evie grow up and think before she acts impulsively?
I am not surprised. Landing up in a prison cell for a night is a pretty serious issue. I am also glad Mabel actually said it like it was. I was nodding as I read that. I do hope it helps Evie to grow up a bit - she's still getting on my nerves
54. So…Uncle Will had no idea of Evie’s powers. Comments on the glove reveal scene? Who was the woman Evie saw? What was her relationship to Uncle Will?I think it is Will's lost lover/fiance. Whether she was lost through death or simply because she left, I don't know, but Will is obviously still very upset about it
55. We get a little more on Jericho’s past: infantile paralysis, time in an iron lung, and the eventual desertion by his family, his ability to forgive, and his lack of belief in miracles. Comments? BOOKQUOTE: How about his cryptic comment, “They tried something new. I was lucky; it worked.” Whatever was it that really worked?
Some form of 'healing', like Memphis? Or is it some medical breakthrough? Not sure about this one
56. Oh, poor Evie. What a terrible thing to discover about how you mother feels about you. Explains her acting out. And we discover that her ability came after James’ death. Comments. However, just when I think she’s growing up, she lies about Reporter Woodhouse’s article and poses for the shutterbug.
It does explain her poor treatment of her grieving parents at the beginning, and it does at least give some justification for her behaviour...to an extent. Perhaps the ability arose as she was experiencing her own intensely strong emotion? As for her behaviour towards the reporter - well, I guess it would have been strange if she really had changed for the better overnight
57. Could you have done what Evie did with Eugene Meriwether’s ring? What are the headaches about? Will Uncle Will know?
Probably not! The headaches seem to be from the 'gift' and it seems Will might know. Perhaps he knows a lot more about Diviners than it seems?
49. Maybe I’ve watched too many old movies, but I thought “The Hotsy Totsy” chapter was very well done. I could picture the setting, the characters, the raid. You?I thought so too. I could picture the setting and loved the way all the characters ended up. Theta and Memphis never would have guessed.
50. BOOK QUOTE: Did any of them have a power so frightening it had to be kept locked down tight? -- Did I miss something? Isn’t this the first inkling we’ve had that Theta has powers?
Not to forget the dreams she has. I thought she had something to hide when Evie sensed something upsetting in her past. Curious how all the diviners end up connected one way or the other.
51. Looks like Theta and Memphis are attracted to one another. I didn’t see that coming, either. Do you think they match up well? They certainly have something to talk about – the exact same dream! Any thoughts on what it means?
The final scene. Something bad is going to happen and they have to stop it.
52. Well, Naughty John’s victims are certainly diverse. Why did he take Eugene Meriwether’s feet? Is this really just a “build a body” thing, or is it related to specific offerings?
Lets see for Adorned it was eyes, for obedience hands and for vengeance feet. Doesn't add up. I like the thought of building a body. May be a Frankenstein monster to do the beast killing or become the beast.
53. Were you surprised that Uncle Will decided to send Evie back to Ohio after one infraction – even given it was as severe as it was. On the heels of that came Mabel calling her selfish. Think these things will help Evie grow up and think before she acts impulsively?
I did think she was acting a bit selfish with Mabel. I don't get why she had to drag Mabel to all those parties when she knows that Mabel doesn't enjoy it much. Mabel turning on Evie didn't come as a surprise. As for Unc Will his reaction was understandable considering the fact that Evie did disobey him and there is a killer on the loose
54. So…Uncle Will had no idea of Evie’s powers. Comments on the glove reveal scene? Who was the woman Evie saw? What was her relationship to Uncle Will?
The girl seems like someone very close to Unc Will. I am surprised that Evie let go of the topic just like that. Makes it seem like Evie knows something.
55. We get a little more on Jericho’s past: infantile paralysis, time in an iron lung, and the eventual desertion by his family, his ability to forgive, and his lack of belief in miracles. Comments? BOOKQUOTE: How about his cryptic comment, “They tried something new. I was lucky; it worked.” Whatever was it that really worked?
Something terrible the consequences of which he still suffers
56. Oh, poor Evie. What a terrible thing to discover about how you mother feels about you. Explains her acting out. And we discover that her ability came after James’ death. Comments. However, just when I think she’s growing up, she lies about Reporter Woodhouse’s article and poses for the shutterbug.
That explains Evie's character and I am glad she didn't turn into a meek little mouse after the reprimand she received from Unc Will. I am enjoying her character too much
57. Could you have done what Evie did with Eugene Meriwether’s ring? What are the headaches about? Will Uncle Will know?
Yes, I would have done the same if it means catching the killer. The HEadaches seem to be a par of using Evie's gift. May be she looses some of her strength when she use her gift which Unc Will knows about.
Lisa Kay wrote: "@ Pamela#40 – I think the only part of the book that made me laugh out loud was when Jericho punched Sam. LOL!
I burst into laughter when Sam ate that knuckle sandwich.
All Sam could say was "Son of a ---" LOL!
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1 - I haven't read anything from this era before. It's not taken me that long to get to a sense of place but some of the historical people mentioned I've never heard of!
2. I've never had the desire to play with a Ouija board - I wouldn't have said I was particularly supersitious but still seems like asking for trouble! Bad ideas at the start of a book are the only way the stories get going though and I'm interested to see where this lands up.
3. The comment someone made about the furnace earlier was interesting. I hadn't thought of it in that way. The wind I suspect was a spirit.
4. Evie sort of winds me up at the moment - seems quite spoiled and self indulgent, but I maybe being quite harsh. The need for attention from everyone is something I tend to shy away from. I'm not convinced she'll be comfortable making the jump from a big fish in a small pond to a small fish in a big pond.
6. I suspect Sam will reappear at some point - just not sure when. Suspect he'll always be caught up in trouble.
8. Thought that Mabel was probably real but expected her to be a flapper as well rather than the naive individual she appears. I think Evie's plan with the crush will probably end badly, but we will wait and see! I think she's probably one of the better people for Evie to trust at this point.
10. I'm really looking forward to hearing more from the Misses Procter's and about the Bennington. There are a lot of plot strands that have come up quite quickly and it'll be good to see how they join together.
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)
I think it will be an escape route for them. The fact that it was explicitly said that it was for the Underground Railroad makes me think that they'll be using it to escape, too!
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 really wasn't expecting it either, but so far he seems to have the coolest ability! I think Project Buffalo might be a government project that rounds up Diviners for testing or something like that. If gifts are genetic (like Memphis and Isaiah), then maybe the people behind Project Buffalo are the ones who hurt Sam's family. Maybe they're who he's after now.
24. Whatever was Evie going to tell Mabel before they fell asleep?
I have no clue about this. I'm interested in hearing everyone else's theories.
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.
Yeaaaaaahhhh. I hope it resolves. I think Sam and Evie will end up together - Jericho is too staid for her! He's a much better fit for Mabel; I really hope they end up together.
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?
The crow reminds me of Game of Thrones. *Shiver* I like Gabe, too, and I do hope we see more of him. I hope the record deal works out!
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 disenchantment came through a lot clearer for me. Even as young as she is, she's smart and talented and sick of not getting noticed. I wonder what she's been through to be so jaded at such a young age.
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?
He's such a sneak! I kind of love that Sam is a bit of a rapscallion. I think Uncle Will knows exactly what he's getting into with Sam. There's definitely more to Uncle Will than we've found out so far. I was glad to learn that Sam wasn't just a thief, but that he has a purpose for everything he does with the bathroom scene. I want to know more about what happened to his family. Bray has a lot of loose threads going at this point - I hope everything gets wrapped up by the end of the book!
29. BOOK QUOTE (The Eternal Recurrence): Solomon’s Comet. An event of heavenly significance. Comments?
I think the comet has to do with Naughty John (or rather, that Naughty John is connected to the comet's timing). I think everything about the murders will culminate at the same time as the comet.
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?
She's so young, and so desperate to get noticed. I hope she learns her lesson this time. I was very interested in Theta's sadness. What's going on there?
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)?
Game of Thrones again! I think the crow is a sort of harbinger. Maybe it serves a similar purpose for Memphis as Evie's dreams of her brother? I think that Isaiah is going to end up more important to the plot than it seems at this point. He reminds me of Miss Addie - prophecies that aren't very clear and make him sound kind of nuts.
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?
Tommy's hands made me think of the phrase, "Idle hands are the devil's tools." I think Naughty John was looking for calluses or other evidence that Tommy had done work at some point. I think the fact that they were perfect and unmarred by work made him the victim John was looking for. If he had been a hard worker he would have been obedient. I think that John was looking for someone disobedient...or maybe the complete opposite I don't even know. So confused at this point!!
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 surprised he even noticed she was out late! I'm curious to see how far Evie tries to push this. I don't know if he knows yet or not. I have the feeling Uncle Will knows much more than he lets on.
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?
I thought the references to Nietzsche were enlightening. The Eternal Recurrence connects closely to the snake (Ouroboros) - everything happens again eventually. So maybe John and the Diviners reoccur throughout history over and over again? I think the man in the hat is John. All of the symbols made me think of freemasonry, the eye especially:
I don't know if that will have anything to do with the story, though. Maybe just the idea of a secret society in general?
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'll get in trouble for this, either with the detective or her Uncle. It will end up helping in the end, though, I think. TS Woodhouse seems like a sharper to me - he's definitely not on the up and up.