Martin, George R.R: A Dance with Dragons ("Buddy Read" Revisit) Start Date: April 2, 2014 [A Song of Ice & Fire #5]

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This topic is open for discussion of A Dance with Dragons by George R.R. Martin.

Be prepared for SPOILERS!

Goodreads Synopsis:
In the aftermath of a colossal battle, the future of the Seven Kingdoms hangs in the balance — beset by newly emerging threats from every direction. In the east, Daenerys Targaryen, the last scion of House Targaryen, rules with her three dragons as queen of a city built on dust and death. But Daenerys has thousands of enemies, and many have set out to find her. As they gather, one young man embarks upon his own quest for the queen, with an entirely different goal in mind.

Fleeing from Westeros with a price on his head, Tyrion Lannister, too, is making his way to Daenerys. But his newest allies in this quest are not the rag-tag band they seem, and at their heart lies one who could undo Daenerys's claim to Westeros forever.

Meanwhile, to the north lies the mammoth Wall of ice and stone — a structure only as strong as those guarding it. There, Jon Snow, 998th Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, will face his greatest challenge. For he has powerful foes not only within the Watch but also beyond, in the land of the creatures of ice.

From all corners, bitter conflicts reignite, intimate betrayals are perpetrated, and a grand cast of outlaws and priests, soldiers and skinchangers, nobles and slaves, will face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Some will fail, others will grow in the strength of darkness. But in a time of rising restlessness, the tides of destiny and politics will lead inevitably to the greatest dance of all.

Reading Schedule: - Posting every three days, excluding breaks.

Date Chapters
April 02-04 Prologue - 11 (Daenerys)
April 05-07 12 (Reek) - 23 (Daenerys)
April 08 BREAK / CATCH-UP
April 09-11 24 (The Lost Lord) - 34 (Bran)
April 12 BREAK / CATCH-UP / TAX DAY COMING!
April 13-15 35 (Jon) - 45 (The Blind Girl)
April 16 BREAK / CATCH-UP
April 17-19 46 (A Ghost in Winterfell) - 60 (The Spurned Suitor)
April 20 BREAK / CATCH-UP HOLIDAY
April 21-23 61 (The Griffen Reborn) - Epilogue

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Chapter Breakdown

Date Chapters PPDQs*
April 02 - Prologue - Chapter 3 - Lisarenee 
April 03 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 7 - Lisa Kay
April 04 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 11 - Lisarenee
April 05 - Chapter 12 - Chapter 15 - Sandy
April 06 - Chapter 16 - Chapter 19 - Sandy
April 07 - Chapter 20 - Chapter 23 - Lisa Kay
April 08 - BREAK / CATCH-UP
April 09 - Chapter 24 - Chapter 26 - Lisarenee 
April 10 - Chapter 27 - Chapter 30 - Lisarenee & Lisa Kay 
April 11 - Chapter 31 - Chapter 34 - Lisa Kay & Lisarenee
April 12 - BREAK / CATCH-UP / TAX DAY COMING! 
April 13 - Chapter 35 - Chapter 37 - Lisarenee
April 14 - Chapter 37 - Chapter 41 - Lisa Kay 
April 15 - Chapter 42 - Chapter 45 - Lisarenee 
April 16 - BREAK / CATCH-UP 
April 17 - Chapter 46 - Chapter 52 - Lisa Kay
April 18 - Chapter 53 - Chapter 56 - Lisa Kay
April 19 - Chapter 57 - Chapter 60 - Lisarenee
April 20 - BREAK / CATCH-UP / HOLIDAY
April 21 - Chapter 61 - Chapter 62 - Lisa Kay
April 22 - Chapter 63 - Chapter 65 - Sandy
April 23 - Chapter 66 - Epilogue - Lisarenee

PPDQs* = Person Posting Discussion Questions & Comments

Here are the chapter divisions so we can all stay in sync:

Prologue - pages 1 - 15
Chapter 1 - Tyrion - pages 16 - 30
Chapter 2 - Daenerys - pages 31 - 45
Chapter 3 - Jon - pages 46 - 59
Chapter 4 - Bran - pages 60 - 70
Chapter 5 - Tyrion - pages 71 - 82
Chapter 6 - The Merchant's Man - pages 83 - 94
Chapter 7 - Jon - pages 95 - 111
Chapter 8 - Tyrion - pages 112 - 122
Chapter 9 - Davos - pages 123 - 133 
Chapter 10 – Jon - pages 134 - 147
Chapter 11 – Daenerys - pages 148 - 160
Chapter 12 – Reek - pages 161 - 168
Chapter 13 – Bran - pages 169 - 178
Chapter 14 - Tyrion - pages 179 - 191
Chapter 15 – Davos - pages 192 - 202
Chapter 16 - Daenerys - pages 203 - 217
Chapter 17 – Jon - pages 218 - 231
Chapter 18 – Tyrion - pages 232 - 242
Chapter 19 – Davos - pages 243 - 252
Chapter 20 – Reek - pages 253 - 266
Chapter 21 – Jon - pages 267 - 275
Chapter 22 - Tyrion - pages 276 - 292
Chapter 23 - Daenerys - pages 293 - 305
Chapter 24 – The Lost Lord - pages 306 - 319
Chapter 25 – The Windblown - pages 320 - 331
Chapter 26 – The Wayward Bride - pages 332 - 350
Chapter 27 – Tyrion - pages 351 - 371
Chapter 28 – Jon - pages 372 - 381
Chapter 29 – Davos - pages 382 - 394
Chapter 30 – Daenerys - pages 395 - 406
Chapter 31 - Melisandre - pages 407 - 419
Chapter 32 – Reek - pages 420 - 433
Chapter 33 – Tyrion - pages 434 - 447
Chapter 34 – Bran - pages 448 - 460
Chapter 35 – Jon - pages 461 - 472
Chapter 36 – Daenerys - pages 473 - 483
Chapter 37 – The Prince of Winterfell - pages 484 - 499
Chapter 38 - The Watcher - pages 500 - 513
Chapter 39 – Jon - pages 514 - 523
Chapter 40 – Tyrion - pages 524 - 535
Chapter 41 - The Turncloak - pages 536 - 548
Chapter 42 – The King's Prize - pages 549 - 563
Chapter 43 – Daenerys - pages 564 - 578
Chapter 44 - Jon - pages 579 - 592
Chapter 45 – The Blind Girl - pages 593 - 604
Chapter 46 – A Ghost in Winterfell - pages 605 - 617
Chapter 47 - Tyrion - pages 618 - 631
Chapter 48 – Jaime - pages 632 - 646
Chapter 49 – Jon - pages 647 - 660
Chapter 50 – Daenerys - pages 661 - 672
Chapter 51 - Theon - pages 673 - 686
Chapter 52 – Daenerys - pages 687 - 699
Chapter 53 – Jon - pages 700 - 716
Chapter 54 - Cersei - pages 717 - 729
Chapter 55 – The Queensguard - pages 730 - 740
Chapter 56 – The Iron Suitor - pages 741 - 753
Chapter 57 - Tyrion - pages 754 - 768
Chapter 58 – Jon - pages 769 - 782
Chapter 59 - The Discarded Knight - pages 783 - 792
Chapter 60 – The Spurned Suitor - pages 793 - 800
Chapter 61 – The Griffen Reborn - pages 801 - 813
Chapter 62 - The Sacrifice - pages 814 - 826
Chapter 63 – Victarion - pages 827 - 834
Chapter 64 - The Ugly Little Girl - pages 835 - 847
Chapter 65 – Cersei - pages 848 - 859
Chapter 66 – Tyrion - pages 860 - 871
Chapter 67 - The Kingbreaker - pages 872 - 886
Chapter 68 – The Dragon Tamer - pages 887 - 898
Chapter 69 - Jon - pages 899 - 913
Chapter 70 - The Queen's Hand - pages 914 - 928
Chapter 71 - Daeneyrs - pages 929 - 943
Epilogue - pages 944 - 959

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Questions for Prologue - Chapter 3 (Jon)
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1) So we finally learn about the wilding killed by Jon in the third book (I think it was the third book). The one we were all sure had turned into an eagle when he died. He is a warg and wargs are skin changers. Able to go from one animal or person to another, thereby able to live indefinitely. What do you think of Lump?

2) Do you think all the Stark siblings are Wargs or only some? Could this mean Sansa could transfer into someone else? We've already seen Bran do it.

3) Tyrion is alive and drinking. Do you think he was starting to get suicidal? Do you think that is why he picked the mushrooms? Do you think serving mushrooms to Tyrion was clever of Illyrio?

4) Thoughts on what Magister Illyrio would use Tyrion for?

5) Do you think Tysha and Tyrion will ever get back together? Can he find her? If she is alive would he still be married to her. If so, does that mean his marriage to Sansa is no longer legit?

6) Yay! Dany's back. How do you think she's faring so far as a ruler?

7) What did you think of the bones the man presented her? Could her dragons have killed a child or are they being framed?

8) This chapter really confused me. This seems to be taking place before the end of the last book. Looks like we'll get a glimpse of what really went on in Jon's brain before he sent Gilly off with the wrong baby.

9) What do you think of Melisandre's interest in Jon Snow? What did you think of her last comment--"Then you know nothing, Jon Snow"?
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Questions for Chapters 4 (Bran) – Chapter 7 (Jon)
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10. Pitiable Bran and his little group. Ghastly weather! And starvation. Terrible way to die. Is Jojen going to make it? And what about Summer’s non-healing wound? How do you feel about Bran warging into Hodor? Poor Hodor is so confused. Anyway, Bran seems to have a better grasp of which reality he is “in” – as it were.

11. What do you think of Coldhands and his spying ravens? Did you expect more indignation out of Bran about the dead followers being men in black? If they were Night’s Watch, who were they? Does anyone still think Coldhands could be Benjen Stark? Meera believes Coldhands is lying to them. Does this bode ill? What about his reveal that his master is the Three-Eyes-Crow – or rather “the last Greenseer.” That he is “Bran’s monster”?

12. So, is the old one-eyed wolf Varamyr Sixskins, from the prologue? If so, what does this mean for Bran? And, will Varamyr be able to warg out of that wolf or is he hopelessly lost in there now?

13. The wolves eating human flesh grossed me out, but I was trying to figure out the identity of the human corpse with the sword in one hand and a leather bound stump for the other. Who was that?

14. Illyrio tells Tyrion about how he and Varys became friends. Did he share everything? Was he truthful? What did you think when learning that paranoid Mad King Aerys is the one who recruited Varys and his little “mice”?

15. Illyrio has piqued Tyrion’s curiosity about Daenerys, but now he is not revealing much. Did you believe him when he said he didn’t expect Dany to survive the Dothraki? Does that imply his plans for her were not a long ranging as I believed? If he is telling the truth, then for whom is all this political maneuvering?

16. This trusted advisor Illyrio speak of, Griff, is really Jon Connington, the former Hand of the King and boyhood friend of Rhaegar Targaryen. Can Tyrion trust him?

17. What did you make of the story of King Hugor Hill? Are there more dragon eggs in Dragonstone? Or some other hidden treasures? If so, what?

18. Man-oh-man! It seems a lot of men want to marry Dany. Do they want her or her dragons, remains the eternal question? What do you think of Quentyn Martell? He is Prince Oberyn Martell’s nephew, right? Given his problems with females, not to mention Dany’s desire to remain single, do you predict he will be successful in his pursuit of Dany’s hand?

19. Did your perception of Quentyn change any after he was in agreement with Gerris about defecting from the Windlblown after signing on?

20. WTH? Why was Jon Snow so harsh with Gilly? Does it take this to “kill the boy” – as Maester Aemon advised – in order to make him into an effective Lord Commander?

21. I must admit, I did like the hanging cum execution of Janos. But what of the Melisandre’s warnings of hidden foes? Should Jon Snow have sent Giant away?

22. Well, King Stannis doesn’t want to listen to Jon Snow in any way, shape, or manner. Can Jon continue to put off signing that paper? For how long? Comments?

22. A bit of overlap here with Sam; still, will they be able to find Valyrian steel elsewhere? Ah! Maybe in Dragonstone?
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Questions for Chapters 8 (Tyrion) - 11 (Daenerys)
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24) Well now we know what they want Tyrion for. Do you think he'd help Dany against his own family? He does still seem to hold a grudge, but would he totally betray them?

25) We're starting to learn about the Dance of Dragons and now know where the book gets its name. What do you think of about the tale? Do we truly have the full picture of what happened yet?

26) Could Stannis trust the Three Sisters? I believe that is what Davis is trying to do--form an alliance with them or keep them loyal? I'm a bit confused about what is happening in Davos' chapter.-

27) Do you think Stannis can win the wildlings to his cause?

28) That darn Dornish song is back. Why? There must be some significance to it.

29)What do you think of the horn being burned and Mance being killed?

30) Seems like Jon is having second thoughts about taking Stannis up on his offer to take his father's name and lands.

31) Being in charge of the wall seems like a lonely position.

32) Do you think Dany will open the fighting pits?

33) What do you think she'll do about her dragons? What do you think she should do?
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Questions for Chapters 12 (Reek) through Chapter 15 (Davos)
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May I just say that I miss Brienne, Jamie and Cersei?

34. Did anyone suspect the real identify of “Reek” in this chapter?

35. This chapter was really high on the “ick” factor. Do you think Theon/Reek has gone crazy? Do you think he has gotten what he deserved? It’s hard to remember everything he did, but taking over Winterfell and killing innocent boys no doubt deserves some sort of consequence. Has he been punished enough?

36. Do you think Lord Ramsay has good intentions toward Reek, considering the hell he has put him through? Why do you think he asked Reek to be his wedding attendant?

37. Oh my! When the fake Arya arrives, will Reek rat her out or hold his tongue?

38. The Ranger tells Bran & co. that the caves are warded so the wights cannot pass. Meer asks him, “What about you?” He answers, “The cave is warded” implying he cannot pass either. So, we have suspected up until now that this person is not human, now we know for sure. We just don’t know what he is exactly. Not a wight, surely?


39. Bran enters Hodor’s body to fight the wights. This didn’t bother me as much as the time he entered Hodor before. What did you think?

40. Thoughts on the Little Woman and the Greenseer? Is she really more than 200 years old?

41. Any idea why the Greenseer has been watching Bran his whole life? When he says Bran will fly, does he mean on dragons? I hope so! I can totally see Bran and Tyrion riding the dragons!

42. In Tyrion’s chapter, he thinks a lot about history, especially about dragons. I suspect it could be foreshadowing that he’ll play a role with Dany and her dragons. They better get a move on. This book is already dragging! 10 pages of Tyrion eating biscuits and watching a naked septa swim. Must we wait until the next book for Tyrion to meet Dany?

43. When the giant turtle makes an appearance, Tyrion thinks Gods and wonders always appear to attend the birth of kings. What does this mean? Does he think someone on their boat will be a King? Is there a King being born somewhere? I felt this could be significant but I had no idea what it meant. (Incidentally, I am still holding on to hope that Dany’s baby is still alive somewhere).

44. Well, Davos is on his way to see Manderley. *sigh* BUT….just maybe… Cersei was lying about Manderley killing Davos, or she was misinformed. Interesting to hear how people are talking about Dany and her dragons.
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Questions for Chapter 16 (Daenerys) through Chapter 19 (Davos)
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45. Do you agree with Dany’s decision to wait longer to return to Westeros?

46. Why does Dany not trust Xaro Xhoan Daxos? Do you think he’s working for her enemies?

47. Does anyone understand the bloody glove? Dany says it means war…war with whom?

48. Jon Snow gives Stannis battle advice, and even tells him where to find 3000 more fighters. Doesn’t this go against his vow to not take sides? Do you think by sending him to find the 3000 fighters he’s just trying to get Stannis out of his hair for awhile?

49. What do you think will happen with Melisandre, since she’s staying at the Wall? And how will they feed all those Wildlings??

50. Speaking of Melisandre, what’s up with the ruby on Rattleshirt’s wrist? She controls him with it? Weird.

51. OK, now I feel dumb. Am I the only one who didn’t figure out the mystery of Young Griff? Now I understand the “kings are born” remark (question 43). I need to pay more attention! I did think the kid was unusually well-educated for a sellsword’s son. I must say this is a clever plot twist by GRRM.

52. Have we seen the last of Tyrion? I’m guessing not. (I haven’t peeked ahead at the chapters)

53. Did you get the feeling that Manderley and his family are afraid of the Freys and Lannisters? Wylla was the only one brave enough to speak the truth. Davos is sentenced to death, but will he really die?
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Questions for Chapters 20 (Reek) to 23 (Daenerys)
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54. Ick. What a chapter. Everyone is insane, not even bordering on insanity. They’ve all crossed over into it, not just Theon/Reek. The Ironmen don’t bury their dead & they’re eating them? Comments.

55. Geez, I had to look up who Victarion was when I heard his name. I’ve forgotten so much; how do people do this with years between books?

56. So, Theon/Reek recognized Jeyne Poole and it almost sent him over the edge even further, if that is possible. Will he do anything about it? Is there any chance that Theon/Reek will come back from this brainwashing?

57. Is Ramsay’s insane casual cruelty to the prisoners going to come back to haunt him? When people find out that surrendering is a worse fate than fighting to death in an honorable battle?

58. What is your impression of Bowen Marsh? When his own effort to be voted the new Lord Commander, he supported Janos Slynt. I’m worried about Jon Snow. What did Jon Snow mean by telling him that Lord Commander Mormont was killed by his own black brothers? Does this mean he is becoming more cautious?

59. What did you think about Jon Snow telling the men they could fight for the Watch, but didn’t have to don the black? Is this a wise decision?

60. What is the significance of the Thenns, the ferocious wilding warriors, leaving and not taking any food?

61. Yay, Tyrion is alive! Okay, I checked Wiki Ice again and Aegon/young Griff is one year older than Jon Snow. You’d never know it by his maturity in losing at cyvasse. I know he has been sheltered, but still. And why is Tyrion giving him advice? I thought he was going to go to Dany?

62. Speaking of which… to which queen is Tyrion going to be delivered? (And Jorah Mormont is seeking out whores that look like Dany. What is the significance of that?)

63. WTH? Do you think Dany is seriously considering marrying Hizdahr zu Loraq? Will he be able to bring peace for 90 days?

64. And she is lusting after Daario? Whoa! Isn’t he proposing he own brand of a Red Wedding? (BTW, what a way to tell if someone is lying! Yikes.) At least she banned him from her presence. Comments.

65. Which prophesy is right? The one made by Galazza Gahare, the Green Grace, or the one from Qaithe?
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Questions for Chapter 24 (The Lost Lord) - Chapter 26 (The Wayward Bride)
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66) So Griff thinks Tyrion set up his own escape. Interesting. So no help from them.

67) So the prince is going to follow Tyrion's advice. Was the advice wise or setting the small prince up for failure?

68) It would seem that many people now know about Prince Aegeon. How fast do you think word will spread? When will they wash the blue hair dye out?

69) What do you think of all the rumors being spread about Dany? Unbelievable. Some are actually kind of sickening.

70) Looks like Connington has the grey scale disease. Was that from fishing Tyrion out or from something else?

71) Do you think Quentyn even stands a chance with Dany?

72) Do you think Dany will survive with so many enemies? Do you think she should flee to Westeros or take a husband? For some strange reason the song 'I will survive' keeps dancing through my head for Dany.

73) Quentyn has taken up with the tattered king. Interesting. Is this a wise or stupid thing?

74) What do you think of the tattered king's plan to infiltrate Dany's stronghold?

75) In the past books I thought Dany was a kick @ass sort of person. Now she's just seemingly week. Why do all GRRM's woman have to end up being week?

76) What did you think of the scene with Qarl and Asha? I thought she was being raped but by the end I guess not. Very strange scene.

77) So did Asha get married without a ceremony? Her uncle just declared her wed?

78) What did you think of Bolton's letter to Asha? Was it her brother's skin?

79) Who attacked Asha's castle?

80) Did Asha survive and, if so, what will happen to her?
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Questions for Chapter 27 (Tyrion)- Chapter 30 (Daenerys)
- This section renumbered from original posting (October, 2011).
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81) Well now we know which Queen Jorah intended to deliver Tyrion to.

82) What did you think of the city of Volantis?

83) First impressions of the widow of the waterfront (aka Vogarro's whore)? Gotta love those reptilian eyes.

84) Were you surprised the dwarf attacked Tyrion?

85) Will Tyrion be safe? Why do you think the widow of the waterfront did not turn him in?

86) What did you think of Tyrion's declaration that he wanted to rape Cersei?

87) What did you think of the direwolf's reaction to Melisandre?

88) Is it just me or did Melisandre proposition Jon?

89) Should Jon let Melisandre save his sister?

90) Davos is safe. I for one am happy. We finally find out what happened to Rickon. He's safe but not in a good place???? Davos didn't seem to think it would be an easy task to get to him.

91. As when King Robb’s Grey Wind was tethered, I think it pretty significant that two of Dany’s dragons are tied up and one is on the loose. Very represented of what is going on with her, right?

92. Is Dany going to cave and buy into to the idea that she must marry Hizdahr?

93. A plague in Astapor. Yikes! How will this affect Dany?

94. Is Dany making a right choice when she snubs Skahza the Shavepate?

95. Is her lust for Daario going to be her downfall?
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Questions for Chapter 31 (Melisandre) – Chapter 34 (Bran)
- This section renumbered from original posting (October, 2011).
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96. So many conflicting things happening with regards to Melisandre, who you know is not my favorite character. In this chapter we learn that she is using alchemist powders to preform her tricks and illusions. We knew her fire reading was faulty, but now we know for sure. That said, she is right some of the time, and close others – and obviously has some powers. So what does it mean when she is searching the fires for Azor Ahai/Stannis and gets images of Jon Snow? Who are the other possible contenders? And WTH are Melony and Lot Seven?

97. Comments on the big reveal of Mance Rayder/Rattleshirt? Surprised that Jon Snow changed his mind about his recuing “Arya” after this?

98. When Melisandre thinks her bed doesn’t get much use since King Stannis is gone, does that mean she was sleeping with him? He doesn’t seem the type, but then I keep thinking that I thought she had seduced him when that thing that she birth after she had Davos row her to kill Cortnay Penrose when he would yield Storm's End.

99. Uh oh. Does it bode ill for Davos when Milisandre says she can create a glamour with any piece of a person and she mentions a bag of finger bones?

100) Could Ramsay's wedding to the fake Arya end up being another Red Wedding?

101) Gah! The story about what Ramsay does to women is terrible. More violence to woman. Why???????

102) Interesting addition to the story - Wex. He saw what happened at Winterfell and knows the 2 youngest Stark boys are alive.

103) Okay, just to be sure I’m right, the shadow seen by Moqorro is Euron Greyjoy, correct? (The whole kraken sigil and one-eye thing.)

104) Nothing to earth-shattering happening with Tyrion. He keeps running across Penny; is that only so her backstory can be revealed? Plus, he is maintaining that he is a kingslayer, when we know he is not. Comments.

105) Is it just cynical me, or is Bran becoming more nonchalant about warging into Hodor and other things? Geez. I’m not liking any of my favorite characters this go round.

106) I feel sorry for Merra. She is really trapped. Jojen doesn’t look long for this world; then what will she do?

107) Where the three children, when Bran warged into the weirwood, Eddard, Lyanna, and Benjen? Who was the pregnant lady begging to be avenged, Catelyn? (Didn’t catch the hair color.) Nor do I know the brown haired girl kissing the tall knight. You?
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Questions for Chapter 35 (Jon) - Chapter 37 (The Prince of Winterfell)
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Not a whole lot of questions for this group of chapters.

108) Do you think Jon should have gone on a trip with some of the men from the wall or stayed behind? Do you think it proved he wouldn't ask his men to do something he wasn't prepared to do himself?

109) Do you think the Wildings are starting to trust Jon?

110) Interesting that Ghost's coat will come in handy.

111) What do you think of Melisandre's and Stanis' tactics to help Jon. Are they trying to sway Jon to their support and, if so, is it working?

112) Dany! What can I say? Do you think Daario could have lied? Could he be betraying her for gold?

113) Do you think it was wise for her to comfort the sick people? Do you think she could get sick?

114) Do you Daario and Dany will be found together and the alliance ruined?


115) The Prince of Winterfell chapter was reeking of awful stuff. Like they say a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet, so too does something that reeks smell equally as unpleasant by any other name. *smirk* I wondered how all this would go down for the wedding. Ramsay is a creep. I can't believe he's suggesting Theon and he share Jeyne.
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Questions for Chapters 38 (The Watcher) – Chapter 41 (The Turncloak)
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116) “Serve, protect, obey.” Kind of nice that GRRM gives us a little simplicity after so much detail. Still, Areo Hotah’s chapter reveals Dornish political house of cards. Do you think that the massive skull presented by young Ser Balon Swann to Prince Doran is really that of Gregor Clegane, or is the mad scientist, Qyburn, still experimenting with him?

117) The Sand Snakes are free again. And Doran has them swear a holy vow that they will not betray him. Do you think one will? If so, which one?

118) Who from Kingslanding told Prince Doran of Cersei’s plans?

119) What do you think of the plan for Ser Balon to blame Trystane's death on Tyrion? Is Myrcella brainwashed enough to make this plot work? Wait. Will it be someone disguised as Myrcella? I’m confused.

120) Does Doran know Aegon Targaryen is alive or not?

121) Will Val be successful with Tormund? Will she get back to the wall before Stannis?

122) Whoa! Yarwick, Celladore and Marsh are not happy campers. Did you notice that Bowen Marsh didn’t take the offer of food or drink from Jon Snow? Comments.

123) Were you surprised that Tyrion humbled himself enough to ride a pig and join Penny in performing? And what is with all the violence toward Tyrion from Jorah? Sure, he struck a nerve, but Jorah’s been beating on him, like, forever.

124) Comments on Penny kissing Tyrion? Did he let her down gently enough?

125) Okay, the shipwreck completely surprised me. And the slaver! Whoa. What a way to end a chapter. Comments on what happened next?

126) How secure is Winterfell? Is it impenetrable from Stannis?

127) Were you surprised by Theon’s confession to Lady Dustin that he always wanted to be a Stark?

128) What is the significance of Silent Sisters never getting Ned’s bones back to Winterfell (I knew it!)? If they do return – despite Lady Dustin’s plan to feed them to her dogs should she run across them – will their “resting in peace” mean peace once again for the North?
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If you are caught up in the reading to this point...

(view spoiler)[ ... you are over 50% done with this book! (hide spoiler)]

Questions for Chapter 42 (The King's Prize) - Chapter 45 (The Blind Girl)
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129) We now know Stannis has Asha and the group is not faring so well with the cold weather. I found it interesting that Asha's father told her to yield if she couldn't win. Seems like most say to fight to the finish. I think for a woman, however, it depends on who you're surrendering to. Could be a fate worse than death.

130) Seems like Melisandre has a very loyal following. What will she do if Stannis dies? Will her loyalty lie with Aegon?

131) Alyson Mormont (the She-Bear) is an interesting character. So they murdered woman (Alyson's sister Dacey is an example) too at the Red Wedding. I didn't know that. Are you surprised?

132) What do you make of them wanting to make a sacrifice of someone?

133) Why does Stannis wish to save Arya?

134) Daario was quite persistent that she marry him. Cut her off cold when she went through with the wedding. Interesting. Could this lead to a future conflict?

135) Quenten has finally made it to Dany. I liked the Frog prince reference. Do you think Dany should have taken his proposal more serious?

136) Sounds like the life of Royalty is not all it's cracked up to be. Seems a lot of unhappy matches are made.

137) Is Queen Selyse Stannis' wife? I couldn't find her in the back?
          ANSWER UNDER SPOILER from Wiki Ice:

(view spoiler)[Selyse Florent is the wife of Lord Stannis Baratheon. She became his queen after Stannis claimed the Iron Throne. Selyse is a fervent worshiper of R'hllor and a supporter of Melisandre. Within the ranks of those who follow Lord Stannis who believe in R'hllor are named Queen's Men after Selyse. (hide spoiler)]

138) What do you make of all the comments about the giant? Will he play a vital role later?

139) From the information we learn in Jon's chapter it looks like Cersei made a bad move. He said crowns change heads when they don't repay their debt to the Bank of Braavos. Interesting...

140) Was Jon smart to go into debt? Did he have a better choice?

141) So the girl on the dying horse was not Arya. What do you make of this? What the heck is GRRM plotting now?

142) Finally we find out more about Arya. Looks like she ended up with her sight back at the end.

143) Seems like she mind melded with the cat to see who was talking. Interesting development. Could this be what they were waiting for her to do when they took away her sight? After hearing what they were teaching her do you feel better about the loss of sight?

144) All those wildlings who went to Hardhome becoming slaves. How awful. Why did the woods witch send them there?

145) Why did the "kindly man" beat Arya? Didn't seem like he did a whole lot of damage, but I just didn't get it.
(hide spoiler)]

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Questions for Chapter 46 (A Ghost in Winterfell) – Chapter 52 (Daenerys)
(view spoiler)[
146) Who was the dead guy frozen in the snow? (I don’t want to re-listen to this chapter… ) Should we know? Was it really a drunkard’s accident? Were there any clues as to his identity? What about Yellow Dick’s death? Geez, it is not like they are not all a bunch of murderers.

147) Theon is contemplating suicide again. Will he try?

148) Theon thought he saw a flash of fear in Roose Bolton’s eyes? If he is growing worried they must all be in dire straits?

149) Was the godswood scene spooky? I think that was really Bran, right?

150) What was all that drumming? Who is Abel's washerwomen, really? Why are all these chapters ending in cliffhangers.

151) Jorah Mormont is a broken man after hearing of Dany’s marriage. Is that why Tyrion “spared” his life – if that is what he did – and had the Yunkish lord, Yezzan,purchase him?

152) Sweet is a hermaphrodite? GRRM puts everything and the kitchen sink in this one. What is the strange disease Yezzan is dying from?

153) What was Tyrion’s strategy with the cyvasse game against Brown Ben Plumm?

154) I can’t believe I’m excited about a Jamie chapter. But it is the only one in the book, right? Unless his story continues under an assumed name like some of the other chapters.

155) Looks like Jaime turned into quite a diplomat. I’m sorry, but the names Bracken and Blackwood were too similar for me. I couldn’t keep the daughter of Blackwood as a hostage and the reasoning straight. Can someone help me?

156) Is Brienne of Tarth setting Jaime up? We’ve seen so many characters become failures in this book and the last, yet here is Jaime, growing, maturing, learning. Does this mean imminent death in GRRM’s world?

157) What did you think of the wedding between Alys Karstark and Sigorn, Magnar of Thenn (whose father died at Castle Black). And the new House of Thenn? ('Cause that’s what we needed, another House to keep track of. See, I really shouldn’t be posting these questions, LOL!)

158) Where are Bowen Marsh, Othell Yarwick and Chayle when they weren’t at the wedding? That doesn’t bode well, does it?

159) Selyse doesn’t want Satin, a former whore, accompany her to the feast. Prejudice much? A little foreshadowing here, right? Is Jon Snow paying attention?

160) I was surprised Milisandre told Jon Snow she always sees him in the flames, surrounded by skulls and daggers when he asks her about Stannis – yet she is talking about Axor Ahai reborn? Huh? Which way is she leaning here?

161) Poor Cregan Karstark (**note sarcasm here**) is between a rock and a hard place. What will he choose, taking the black or hanging by Stannis?

162) Whoa! They are having a slave market right outside the wedding? I don’t blame Dany for being pissed, but isn’t she a little late on the uptake? Am I the only one screaming inside over her marriage to Hizdahr? Is she blind?

163) Daario is one of the hostages?

164) Well, looks like Barristan only has thoughts of Dany in King’s Landing. Is he of any used to her now?

165) Has Dany learned her less from the sellsword, Brown Ben Plumm?

166) Now Little Walder has been murdered?!? Man-oh-man! If I was any one of them, I would seriously get the hell out of there! For more than one reason; the killer is freaking everyone out. The Freys and Manderlys are at each other’s throats (which doesn’t bother me a bit). Comments?

167) Now we know Abel’s plans. Why the chapter name change? Is Reek gone for good? Oh, I forgot; I’m reading a GRRM book. You can’t count on anyone really being gone. Well, Reek may be gone for now, but I don’t know that Theon will ever be the same. Jeyne certainly won’t. Comments?

168) Wow! How cool was that scene with Drogon and Dany?! Think she’ll return to Meereen? Think she’ll be back to the old Dany now? Or maybe the new and improved Dany.

169) Back track questions: Why did Hizdahr want Dany to eat the honeyed locusts? Were they poisoned? What about dwarves? They were Tyrion & Penney, right? Good thing Dany didn’t want them eaten by lions!
(hide spoiler)]

Questions for Chapters 53 (Jon) – 56 (The Iron Suitor)
(view spoiler)[
170) Tormund seems, if not happy, then alright with the compromise/treaty with Jon Snow. Will he be a problem in the future? Or will all the trouble come from the Night’s Watch?

171) WTH! How serious was Jon Snow about bedding Val? And she was all in white (like Ghost) and with him?

172) Whoa! Val’s lack of sympathy toward Shireen because of her having Greyscale was a big surprise. (And the wildings kill their children even if they survive it!) Seems like “intolerance” isn’t only one-sided. Will Commander Snow ever get these two very different cultures to blend?

173) Uh, oh! Bowen Marsh used the “T” word! TREASON! Is Jon Snow’s feigned desertion going to come back to haunt him?

174) Cersei! Wow, I knew we were going to get her POV chapter, but to tell the truth, I forgot all about it. Anywayz… no Jaime to the rescue (he has his own problems), but thank goodness for her decent and forgiving Uncle Kevan! I almost feel sorry for her, but man-oh-man did she make a mess; think he can clean it up? Comments on Cersei’s confession and her half-truths/half-lies?

175) We learn that Princess Myrcella has lost an ear. (And Cersei is still blaming Tyrion!) Do you think that is the extent of Myrcella’s injuries?

176) Mace Tyrell is coming into a lot of power; just what he wanted. Will it be enough to gain his daughter’s, Queen Margaery’s, freedom?

177) And what was that cryptic message for Lord Qyburn that “the time has come” now that there is a vacancy in the Kingsguard??

178) Ser Barristan Selmy is another person with a mess to clean up -- and the Unsullied aren't cooperating. Did he have any other choice but to meet with Shavepate/Skahaz mo Kandaq? Is Shavepate telling him the truth about Hizdahr being behind the plot to kill Dany? Will Grey Worm, Commander of Daenery’s Unsullied, agree to work with Ser Barristan?

179) Boy, I’ve been so lost in this series that when I “get one” - I’m ecstatic. I just knew Moqorro was going to survive the shipwreck of the Selaesori Qhoran headed for Qarth (with Tyrion & Jorah Mormont on board). Now I just need to know if he caused the storm and shipwreck. I mean, why get on the ship if he could see into the flames? With this in mind, was Victarion Greyjoy wise to kill his maester and throw his body overboard for “favorable winds”? I don’t get the impression this dude (Victarion) is very smart.
(hide spoiler)]

Questions for Chapter 57 (Tyrion) - Chapter 60 (The Spurned Suitor)
(view spoiler)[

180) Do you think Tyrion was smart to escape while the escaping was good? Do you think anyone will get sick? I'm guessing Penny because I can't see how she'd be useful to the story anymore.

181) Do you think it was wise to go to Brown Ben Plumm?

182) Do you think maybe the reason Tyrion has saved Jorah's butt is because he's been in Jorah's shoes? A fool over a woman?

182) So it was Penny and Tyrion in the pit. Surprised Tyrion kept Penny clueless as to what was going on?

183) What do you make of Jon's dream?

184) What do you make of the crow saying "King" then "Jon" then "Snow"??? Could this imply something about the future? Could he and Dany be destined for a future alliance?

185) That was a lot of wildings. If Jon didn't let them cross the wall they'd have died. How will they be able to sustain all those people???

186) "But we never found the true horn, not for all our digging."The horn Joramun IS going to the the one they found in book 2 that didn't work. I just know it! But where is it???

187) Looks like Wilding evacuation at Hardhome isn't going well. Wonder if any of them will make it out of there.

188) Wow! Hizdar zo Loraq sure is scrubbing the place of any remnant of Dany. I say he's guilty as sin of attempting to kill Dany. Why else wouldn't he eat the locust. Does anyone really see him as saying, "Oh there soooooo good you really need to try one. Oh, me? Well, I'm on a diet. Need to keep in shape for you sugar plum." *grin*

189) Sir Barristan seems to be moving cautiously. Could that end up costing him a chance of getting out of town before the bad guys come?

190) King Hizdar just proved he's not ready to rule. He's no idea what he got himself into.

191) Will the dragons survive?

192) Is Prince Quentyn stupid or what? What the heck is he thinking making a deal with the Tattered King? Prediction: Quentyn + Stupidity = Death
(hide spoiler)]

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Questions for Chapter 61 (The Griffen Reborn) – Chapter 62 (The Sacrifice)
(view spoiler)[
193) Geez! All these battles – past, present, future – to keep track of. Thank goodness for Wiki Ice, which I freely admit I have referred to often for this one; maybe b/c I’m doing it in audiobook form and I don’t have an appendix. Anywayz… A lot of strategic information and war plans in this chapter. Quite a bit of brutality too. Jon Connington, former Hand of the King to Aerys II, comes across more brutal and unfeeling for me than I previously envisioned him. If this dude is “reborn,” then he is a hell of a lot meaner. Especially throwing the maester out of the tower window and not caring about all the deaths of the warriors or prisoners. What do you think? Is all fair in war?

194) Predition? From Wiki Ice:

Greyscale is a disease that can leave flesh stiff and dead and the skin cracked and flaking, mottled black and grey and stone-like to the touch.

Okay, Lisarenee, you got me thinking over your comment about the Greyscale, Val’s comments, and it possible being contagious. I saw this hypothesis on the internet: What if Jon Connington gives Greyscale to Aegon – who turns to “stone” and then can turn into a dragon?

195) We learn that Prince Dorne Martell married Princess Myrcella to his youngest son, Trystane. Think his son will one day be King?

196) Was Aegon Targaryen naming Ser Rolly Duckfield (AKA Duck/Rolly) Kingsguard as big a mistake as Jon Connington fears? As we’ve seen, loyalty is a pretty important factor.

197) Am I confused again? Isn’t The Vale – or Vale of Arryn – ruled by House Arryn (castle known as Eyrie) and therefore NOT neutral? (Espcially if Littlefinger rules the roost?) Why does Jon Connington dismiss it so lightly?

198) Is there a possibly Dany will marry Aegon?

199) I couldn’t really blame Aegon for wanting to be in the battle, and can see this boosting the morale of his men. You?

200) BTW, what was all that about Aegon’s eye color being paler than Rhaegar's?

201) Yikes! Asha Greyjoy is about to be sacrificed to R’hllor to stop the snow and the howling winds. And raped by the brutal sadist Sluggs! Yuck, what a chapter. The sacrifice was a little to descriptive for me. This isn’t a religion, it is a cult. Right?

202) Even if he only wants her lands, I don’t blame Asha for following Ser Justin Massey; then I checked him out on Wiki Ice and he is a Queen’s Man (as in Queen Selyse) and therefore a practitioner to the faith of R’hllor, so that can’t be good, can it? Geez, you don’t know who to trust in this book.

203) Just in the nick of time, Tycho Nestoris, (a representative of the Iron Bank of Braavos sent to the Wall to negotiate payment of the debt of the Iron Throne with Stannis) shows up with Theon Greyjoy – looking like an old man – and with Jeyne Poole in tow. Did this surprise you? Where are the others who helped in the escape?
(hide spoiler)]

Questions for Chapter 63 (Victarion) – Chapter 65 (Cersei)
(view spoiler)[

(204) So now we have Victarion, on his way to woo Daenerys, busy taking over ships, killing slavers, freeing slaves (sort of), burning innocent girls, cutting out tongues and throwing people overboard to the Drowned God. A real likable fella! What has Moqorro done to his arm? He seems to have superhuman strength now. Does Moqorro really see victory for Victarion, or is he just saying that for self-preservation?

(205) Who is the Other god that must not be named? I can’t help but think of Lord Voldemort every time I read this.

(206) Ah-ha, the horn turns up again! No one can blow Dragonbinder and survive. What will Victarion do with it? And does it bother anyone else that it takes 1000 pages to find out what happened the last time someone blew the horn?

(207) I just have to reiterate how I hate the direction that Arya’s story has taken. I am extremely disappointed! That said, she must kill the evil insurance adjuster in order to get her new face. (The walls of faces were pretty gross!) So, why did they give her the new face before she killed him? And are we to understand she killed him with a coin?

(208) I guess one good thing I can find in Arya’s story is that she is not losing her thirst for revenge. She still says the prayer for those she wants dead (just not aloud). Glad the old Arya is still in there somewhere!

(209) Arya is being sent to an apprenticeship…an apprenticeship to do what??

(210) I’m sure we’ve all learned to despise Cersei, but I have to admit that I felt sorry for her during her walk of shame. This was a really great scene, in my opinion. I could smell the filth and feel the slimy food being thrown. Will Cersei be allowed to see her son?

(211) OK, I haven’t looked it up and I can’t remember…are we supposed to know who Robert Strong is? I tell ya, my memory isn’t what it used to be, ladies!

(212) Will Cersei’s champion prevail? The real question is, will we find out in this book?
(hide spoiler)]

Chapter 66 (Tyrion) - Epilogue
(view spoiler)[
I think we are all glad we are done with this book and read the last of the series so far.

212) How can Brown Ben Plum believe he'd get a castle?

213) If Cersei has no power would her declaration to make someone a lord for Tyrion's head be upheld?

214) Were you surprised Tyrion slapped Penny?

215) Surprised by Ser Barristan? Did you think he'd go after the King?

216) Well my prediction for Quentyn was correct, but not at all the way I expected. I thought the tattered King would betray and kill him.

217) Did I read right? Were all the hostages killed?

218) Will all that happened help strengthen Dany to be a better Queen when she finds out what happened or will it kill her?

219) Hizdahr showed he believes in slavery. Yep, that was a bed slave.

220) Who was the little boy running around the King's room? Could he have a son?

221) Ser Barristan's still got it. How old is he?

222) So we know Quentyn really wants to marry one of his friend's sisters. What the heck was the idiot doing?

223) Didn't like all the carnage involved, but the dragons were cool.

224) Jon! OMG! Could he have survived and what about ghost? Will Melisandre be able to save him? Will they use the method they did on Catelyn? WHY!!!

225) Do you believe everything Ramsay stated in his letter? Could he have Mace? Could Mace and his ladies have been the ones who helped whisk the fake Arya away from the castle? I didn't even think of that.

226) What side is the Green Grace on and who exactly is she?

227) Dany is safe, at least it sounded like it. Don't think anyone would attempt to cross the woman eating beside her dragon. That would be insane.

226) A little graphic with the blood there. Does this signify something? Really should have tagged all those predictions especially the one stating she wouldn't have children until something happened. Could there be a loop hole?

227) "somewhere in the distance a wolf howled..." Could this have something to do with Jon being attacked?

228) Just the ramblings of Dany's mind playing tricks on her or was there some good advice in those dreams/hallucinations of hers?

229) Dear Goodness Kevan. Didn't want to see him bite the big one. Could he have brought peace to the realm?

230) Who is Robert Strong? Could it be Gregor Clegane come back to life?

231) Varys is back. He had something to do with those children at the Inn.

232) What thing are we still waiting to find out???

(hide spoiler)]

Additional Questions about loose ends...A-Z from the last group read:
(view spoiler)[

A) What the heck was the key for? Did Varys steal it?

B) Where is the horn the Wildings wanted and what exactly does it do?

C) What happened to Jaime? Another of Vary's plots?

D) What exactly happened to Rickon?

E) What happened to Davos?

F) Who ARE Jon Snow’s parents? What is his destiny, if he lives?

G) Which way will Dany rule? With the all three dragons? Who really poisoned her? Will she abolish slavery?

H) What will happen to Arya; will she become an assassin? If so, who will they assign her to kill? (It is sure to be a dilemma for her.) Will she reconnect with Nymeria?

I) Will Bran ever fly a dragon? Or maybe warg into one?

J) What of Sansa? Is her marriage to Tyrion valid? Will he find Tansy?

K) What is Littlefinger’s connection to Varys’ machinations?

L) Where the hell is Benjen Stark?

M) What happening with the Others? When will they attack?

N. Is Brienne tricking Jaime?

O. Will Theon and Asha be released from Stannis' hold?
Is Stannis alive?

P. Where is Arya going?

Q. Is Bran turning into a tree?

R. What is Catelyn up to?

S. Will Tyrion return to King's Landing and escape punishment?

T. Will Margaery Tyrell be executed?

U. Will Myrcella marry the Dornish prince?

V. Will Aegon reclaim the kingdom?

W. Will Dany forgive Jorah?

X. What is Bronn doing?

Y. Will Margaery's brother survive?

Z. What happened to Euron? (Do you think GRRM created that name on purpose? I still say it sounds like urine. LOL!)
(hide spoiler)]

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

This thread has been moved to the “Featured Series Read” folder.

Any hyperlinks you've made should still work.

For Series Reads books that have a stand-alone thread (such as this one), about a week after the book is finished we'll move the thread to its respective Author folder. Upcoming books in the series will remain - and appear - under the "Featured Series Read" folder.

Please note that some "Featured Series Reads" has a single generic discussion thread for all books in a series; those will remain under the "Featured Series Reads" folder.

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Reserved.

[Renee]

I'll be here in April. Zonnah, are you coming too? Anyone else want to play with us?

[Lisa Kay]

Great, Renee! Welcome.

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Links to DQs added.

[Zonnah]

Renee wrote: "I'll be here in April. Zonnah, are you coming too? Anyone else want to play with us?"

Yes I will be there! :)
I was a bit frustrated that we only got to see some of the characters in the last book. This book will have some of my favorite characters!

[Zonnah]

@Renee
Oh and can't wait to see who you will curse to die this time, lol.

[Renee]

Zonnah wrote: "@Renee
Oh and can't wait to see who you will curse to die this time, lol."

:)

[Matt]

I'll definitely be here for this one. love this series, up there with the Malazan books as my favourite of all.

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Welcome, Zonnah & Yorkshiretricky!

[Renee]

The link to this thread in the "what is a buddy read..." folder isn't working, it's going to a secret group.

[Renee]

Questions for Prologue - Chapter 3 (Jon)

(view spoiler)[

1) So we finally learn about the wilding killed by Jon in the third book (I think it was the third book). The one we were all sure had turned into an eagle when he died. He is a warg and wargs are skin changers. Able to go from one animal or person to another, thereby able to live indefinitely. What do you think of Lump?
Desperate. Not wanting to let go.

2) Do you think all the Stark siblings are Wargs or only some? Could this mean Sansa could transfer into someone else? We've already seen Bran do it.
I think they all are, but maybe different strengths. I think Bran is the strongest.

3) Tyrion is alive and drinking. Do you think he was starting to get suicidal? Do you think that is why he picked the mushrooms? Do you think serving mushrooms to Tyrion was clever of Illyrio?
He might have wanted to have an easy way out if he got turned back in. Mushrooms would have been better than facing Cersei again.

4) Thoughts on what Magister Illyrio would use Tyrion for?
He took him as a favour, now he will be owed a favour inthe future. It looks like he wants to put Tyrion with Dany, to help and advise and report back.

5) Do you think Tysha and Tyrion will ever get back together? Can he find her? If she is alive would he still be married to her. If so, does that mean his marriage to Sansa is no longer legit?
I thought his father anulled the marriage. I don't think they will get back together. That's too sweet and I don't think this is a love story.

6) Yay! Dany's back. How do you think she's faring so far as a ruler?
I think she is doing well. I think she will win the game of thrones, or I hope she does, no one else I like as much. Long live Queen Dany!

7) What did you think of the bones the man presented her? Could her dragons have killed a child or are they being framed?
I think the dragons did kill a child, they are wild animals and hunt on instinct.

8) This chapter really confused me. This seems to be taking place before the end of the last book. Looks like we'll get a glimpse of what really went on in Jon's brain before he sent Gilly off with the wrong baby.
I was wondering how that decision was made. The cross back timeline threw me for a bit too.

9) What do you think of Melisandre's interest in Jon Snow? What did you think of her last comment--"Then you know nothing, Jon Snow"?
I think she knows alot about the future and the white walkers. She has studied the prophecies but may be twisting them to suit herself. Jon had said it is always cold at the wall, but I think Melisandre knows that the white walkers will bring a coldness deeper than ever known before.
(hide spoiler)]

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

Renee wrote: "The link to this thread in the "what is a buddy read..." folder isn't working, it's going to a secret group."

Thanks, Renee. Fixed it. Drat! That means the newsletter link was wrong, too.

[Zonnah]

Questions for Prologue - Chapter 3 (Jon)
(view spoiler)[


1) So we finally learn about the wilding killed by Jon in the third book (I think it was the third book). The one we were all sure had turned into an eagle when he died. He is a warg and wargs are skin changers. Able to go from one animal or person to another, thereby able to live indefinitely. What do you think of Lump?

Interesting. It also seemed that this immortality is frowned upon.

2) Do you think all the Stark siblings are Wargs or only some? Could this mean Sansa could transfer into someone else? We've already seen Bran do it.

My guess is yes. I think some are stronger then others.

3) Tyrion is alive and drinking. Do you think he was starting to get suicidal? Do you think that is why he picked the mushrooms? Do you think serving mushrooms to Tyrion was clever of Illyrio?

I think he is having a hard time dealing with what he did. I do think he will snap out of it. Illyrio is someone I would not trust.

4) Thoughts on what Magister Illyrio would use Tyrion for?

I am really unsure about this part. One side of me thinks he is meant to be one of her husbands and the other side thinks he is just going to help her.

5) Do you think Tysha and Tyrion will ever get back together? Can he find her? If she is alive would he still be married to her. If so, does that mean his marriage to Sansa is no longer legit?

Good question. I have no idea. I do think they may meet up again but not sure if they will get back together.

6) Yay! Dany's back. How do you think she's faring so far as a ruler?

Fine. For some reason I just can not get into her character.

7) What did you think of the bones the man presented her? Could her dragons have killed a child or are they being framed?

I think the dragons are very capable of eating children. If it did not eat this particular child they soon would.

8) This chapter really confused me. This seems to be taking place before the end of the last book. Looks like we'll get a glimpse of what really went on in Jon's brain before he sent Gilly off with the wrong baby.

9) What do you think of Melisandre's interest in Jon Snow? What did you think of her last comment--"Then you know nothing, Jon Snow"?

I thought it was a bit eerie. I do not like her.

(hide spoiler)]

[Zonnah]

Renee wrote: "That's too sweet and I don't think this is a love story."

So true.

Renee wrote: "The cross back timeline threw me for a bit too."

My book had an intro explaining this and so I was looking forward to this.

[David]

Is there a read-along for the first book?

[Renee]

David wrote: "Is there a read-along for the first book?"

We read it in December and discussed here

It's been discussed before that too, I think there is a link to previous discussion in the thread I linked to.

[Renee]

Zonnah wrote: "I do not like her."

Should I start cursing Melisandre for you? I don't like her either, but I think she has alot to add to the story yet and it's not her time to die. I think Cersei's time is done though, she's served her purpose, keel over already...

[Renee]

Questions for Chapters 4 (Bran) – Chapter 7 (Jon)

(view spoiler)[
10. Pitiable Bran and his little group. Ghastly weather! And starvation. Terrible way to die. Is Jojen going to make it? And what about Summer’s non-healing wound? How do you feel about Bran warging into Hodor? Poor Hodor is so confused. Anyway, Bran seems to have a better grasp of which reality he is “in” – as it were.
I think there are moral issues with taking over another human body. I think Bran will do well with some formal training on how to control his warging.

11. What do you think of Coldhands and his spying ravens? Did you expect more indignation out of Bran about the dead followers being men in black? If they were Night’s Watch, who were they? Does anyone still think Coldhands could be Benjen Stark? Meera believes Coldhands is lying to them. Does this bode ill? What about his reveal that his master is the Three-Eyes-Crow – or rather “the last Greenseer.” That he is “Bran’s monster”?
I think coldhands must be very old to have the control that he does. They have come so far, they need to follow through to the end.

12. So, is the old one-eyed wolf Varamyr Sixskins, from the prologue? If so, what does this mean for Bran? And, will Varamyr be able to warg out of that wolf or is he hopelessly lost in there now?
I think it is. I think it depends on how long he has been in there and how much of his human self he has lost. Maybe he will warg out and take over Hodor.

13. The wolves eating human flesh grossed me out, but I was trying to figure out the identity of the human corpse with the sword in one hand and a leather bound stump for the other. Who was that?
Not sure.

14. Illyrio tells Tyrion about how he and Varys became friends. Did he share everything? Was he truthful? What did you think when learning that paranoid Mad King Aerys is the one who recruited Varys and his little “mice”?
I think what he said was the truth, but maybe not everything. Not surprised a paranoid king was spying on everyone. I like that Vary's changed his spys from mice to birds, I always liked thinking "a little bird told me"

15. Illyrio has piqued Tyrion’s curiosity about Daenerys, but now he is not revealing much. Did you believe him when he said he didn’t expect Dany to survive the Dothraki? Does that imply his plans for her were not a long ranging as I believed? If he is telling the truth, then for whom is all this political maneuvering?
I believe that he didn't expect her to live, she seemed very weak willed at back then. I think he was politically manouvering to get Dany's brother on the throne and has just changed who he is backing since he died and Dany has taken power. He is still backing the Targarean claim to the throne. Not sure who is behind it all though. I had thought Vary's and Littlefinger were on different sides, but I wonder if they are in it together, and if anyone is pulling their strings.

16. This trusted advisor Illyrio speak of, Griff, is really Jon Connington, the former Hand of the King and boyhood friend of Rhaegar Targaryen. Can Tyrion trust him?
Only if Tyrion goes along with their plan.

17. What did you make of the story of King Hugor Hill? Are there more dragon eggs in Dragonstone? Or some other hidden treasures? If so, what?
Maybe dragon eggs (dragons hidden in stone), maybe obsidian (stone that can kill white walkers like dragon fire).

18. Man-oh-man! It seems a lot of men want to marry Dany. Do they want her or her dragons, remains the eternal question? What do you think of Quentyn Martell? He is Prince Oberyn Martell’s nephew, right? Given his problems with females, not to mention Dany’s desire to remain single, do you predict he will be successful in his pursuit of Dany’s hand?
He won't be able to bring her back with him, she wont go along with that. She may marry him for the strength of Dorn if he stays with her, not sure about that though.

19. Did your perception of Quentyn change any after he was in agreement with Gerris about defecting from the Windlblown after signing on?
no.

20. WTH? Why was Jon Snow so harsh with Gilly? Does it take this to “kill the boy” – as Maester Aemon advised – in order to make him into an effective Lord Commander?
Rulers don't ask, they tell. Jon needed to toughen up to be a successful leader.

21. I must admit, I did like the hanging cum execution of Janos. But what of the Melisandre’s warnings of hidden foes? Should Jon Snow have sent Giant away?
I had a little smile on my face too, and I hadn't even had a chance to curse Slynt before he died.

22. Well, King Stannis doesn’t want to listen to Jon Snow in any way, shape, or manner. Can Jon continue to put off signing that paper? For how long? Comments?
Not sure. Stannis is tough, Jon will need to out tough him.

22. A bit of overlap here with Sam; still, will they be able to find Valyrian steel elsewhere? Ah! Maybe in Dragonstone?
Maybe they need to find the secret of forging new Valerian steel.
(hide spoiler)]

[Teresa]

Questions for Prologue - Chapter 3 (Jon)

(view spoiler)[1) So we finally learn about the wilding killed by Jon in the third book (I think it was the third book). The one we were all sure had turned into an eagle when he died. He is a warg and wargs are skin changers. Able to go from one animal or person to another, thereby able to live indefinitely. What do you think of Lump?

I did not read this as them being immortal – it seemed like the death he described were the death of the animals he was possessing. It seems like on death, they can extend life by jumping into one of their animals, but the skin changer slowly fades. Sounds like Lump had a bad life, but a fitting end when he tries to jump to another person as he dies and fails.

2) Do you think all the Stark siblings are Wargs or only some? Could this mean Sansa could transfer into someone else? We've already seen Bran do it.

I think they can all possess their wolves – not sure Sansa could go beyond her lost wolf. Perhaps it is because I don’t like her, but I assume her abilities are the weakest of the kids.

3) Tyrion is alive and drinking. Do you think he was starting to get suicidal? Do you think that is why he picked the mushrooms? Do you think serving mushrooms to Tyrion was clever of Illyrio?

I don’t think he was picking the mushrooms for that – it may have been a symbol of what he was hoping for the seven kingdom with the seven mushrooms. Perhaps foreshadowing that he will align with Dany? Although, when he saw the mushrooms at dinner, I think he had a momentary thought of suicide.

4) Thoughts on what Magister Illyrio would use Tyrion for?

To add legitimacy to some plot?

5) Do you think Tysha and Tyrion will ever get back together? Can he find her? If she is alive would he still be married to her. If so, does that mean his marriage to Sansa is no longer legit?

One can hope he finds Tysha and has a clean way out of his marriage to Sansa.

6) Yay! Dany's back. How do you think she's faring so far as a ruler?

I think she is learning good lessons.

7) What did you think of the bones the man presented her? Could her dragons have killed a child or are they being framed?

She does comment that they are getting wild because she does not have time for them. I wonder if she will figure out soon who all will be riding them.

8) This chapter really confused me. This seems to be taking place before the end of the last book. Looks like we'll get a glimpse of what really went on in Jon's brain before he sent Gilly off with the wrong baby.

This confused me as well, although I am glad we got to see this from Jon’s perspective.

9) What do you think of Melisandre's interest in Jon Snow? What did you think of her last comment--"Then you know nothing, Jon Snow"?

I think she is willing to use anyone she needs to for her purposes. As to the statement, she deals in knowledge so I thought this was interesting. (hide spoiler)]

[Zonnah]

Questions for Chapters 4 (Bran) – Chapter 7 (Jon)

(view spoiler)[


10. Pitiable Bran and his little group. Ghastly weather! And starvation. Terrible way to die. Is Jojen going to make it? And what about Summer’s non-healing wound? How do you feel about Bran warging into Hodor? Poor Hodor is so confused. Anyway, Bran seems to have a better grasp of which reality he is “in” – as it were.

I am worried about Jojen. I have a feeling he won't make it much longer. He has been described as old man and I wonder if that was to prepare us.
I don't think he should enter Hodor, especially now after reading what happened to the lady when she got took over by that other warg.

11. What do you think of Coldhands and his spying ravens? Did you expect more indignation out of Bran about the dead followers being men in black? If they were Night’s Watch, who were they? Does anyone still think Coldhands could be Benjen Stark? Meera believes Coldhands is lying to them. Does this bode ill? What about his reveal that his master is the Three-Eyes-Crow – or rather “the last Greenseer.” That he is “Bran’s monster”?

I don't think Coldhands is telling the whole truth but at this point they really do not have any other options unless they want to die of starvation; Coldhands is bringing them food.

12. So, is the old one-eyed wolf Varamyr Sixskins, from the prologue? If so, what does this mean for Bran? And, will Varamyr be able to warg out of that wolf or is he hopelessly lost in there now?

That was my guess and I wish I knew.

13. The wolves eating human flesh grossed me out, but I was trying to figure out the identity of the human corpse with the sword in one hand and a leather bound stump for the other. Who was that?

No idea.

14. Illyrio tells Tyrion about how he and Varys became friends. Did he share everything? Was he truthful? What did you think when learning that paranoid Mad King Aerys is the one who recruited Varys and his little “mice”?

I don't believe anything that comes out of Illyrios mouth.
It makes since that the Mad King would recruit Varys.

15. Illyrio has piqued Tyrion’s curiosity about Daenerys, but now he is not revealing much. Did you believe him when he said he didn’t expect Dany to survive the Dothraki? Does that imply his plans for her were not a long ranging as I believed? If he is telling the truth, then for whom is all this political maneuvering?

Once again, I have no idea.

16. This trusted advisor Illyrio speak of, Griff, is really Jon Connington, the former Hand of the King and boyhood friend of Rhaegar Targaryen. Can Tyrion trust him?

No idea.

17. What did you make of the story of King Hugor Hill? Are there more dragon eggs in Dragonstone? Or some other hidden treasures? If so, what?

Again, no idea, lol.

18. Man-oh-man! It seems a lot of men want to marry Dany. Do they want her or her dragons, remains the eternal question? What do you think of Quentyn Martell? He is Prince Oberyn Martell’s nephew, right? Given his problems with females, not to mention Dany’s desire to remain single, do you predict he will be successful in his pursuit of Dany’s hand?

No, I do not think any really care about her. They just want power.

19. Did your perception of Quentyn change any after he was in agreement with Gerris about defecting from the Windlblown after signing on?

No.

20. WTH? Why was Jon Snow so harsh with Gilly? Does it take this to “kill the boy” – as Maester Aemon advised – in order to make him into an effective Lord Commander?

Unfortunately, I think he does need to do this. When you have to rule over people it is hard to be friends and maintain control.

21. I must admit, I did like the hanging cum execution of Janos. But what of the Melisandre’s warnings of hidden foes? Should Jon Snow have sent Giant away?

Good question.

22. Well, King Stannis doesn’t want to listen to Jon Snow in any way, shape, or manner. Can Jon continue to put off signing that paper? For how long? Comments?

Stannis is gaining respect for Jon. For instance the nod after the beheading. I feel Stannis and the red lady may need Jon and might let up. We will see.

22. A bit of overlap here with Sam; still, will they be able to find Valyrian steel elsewhere? Ah! Maybe in Dragonstone?

(hide spoiler)]

[Zonnah]

Renee wrote: "Zonnah wrote: "I do not like her."

Should I start cursing Melisandre for you? I don't like her either, but I think she has alot to add to the story yet and it's not her time to die. I think Cersei..."

Yes please, lol.
You are right she is there to play a bigger role then we are seeing at the moment.

[Zonnah]

Teresa wrote: " I wonder if she will figure out soon who all will be riding them."

I just assumed she would ride them but you are right there are three not one. Now I am wondering as well :)

[Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief]

David wrote: "Is there a read-along for the first book?"

Yes, David, as Renee mentioned, first read is here and second is here; DQs are the same.

[Renee]

Zonnah wrote: "Teresa wrote: " I wonder if she will figure out soon who all will be riding them."

I just assumed she would ride them but you are right there are three not one. Now I am wondering as well :)"

I thought the three riders would have to have Targarean blood, or now that I think about it maybe be wargs to be able to control the dragons in flight. I was hoping Jon would turn out to be Rhaegar and Lyanna's child and part Targarean and fly a dragon. Now that Tyrion is heading that way and knows alot about dragons, maybe Dany will keep him as an advisor and he can help her learn how to ride them. Tyrion is small enough that he could ride one of the smaller ones too.

[Teresa]

Zonnah wrote: "I just assumed she would ride them but you are right there are three not one. Now I am wondering as well :)"

Renee wrote: "I thought the three riders would have to have Targarean blood, or now that I think about it maybe be wargs to be able to control the dragons in flight...."

I think there was a scene after her two potential lovers (the ex-pat and the joker)were actively pursuing her that she thought perhaps she should just keep them around and give each a dragon to ride. I may be remembering that wrong. And, I suppose she may not even know what requirements there are.

Interesting if a warg could control it, but I don't know if they could inhabit both the human and dragon bodies at the same time, if that makes sense. It seems like Bran basically falls asleep.

It would make sense if only a Targarean could ride as Dany could not be burned and seemed to wake the dragons in that way. I just keep thinking there must be three for some secret plot Martin is going to spring on us.

[Renee]

Teresa wrote: "Interesting if a warg could control it, but I don't know if they could inhabit both the human and dragon bodies at the same time, if that makes sense. It seems like Bran basically falls asleep.
"

I think as well as inhabiting the animal bodies and seeing through their eyes, a warg can control the animal from outside its body. I think I read somewhere that six skins used to ride a bear into battle, that's what made me think of wargs and dragons.

I hope we don't have to wait too many years for the last two books to be written, I think I will still have a lot of questions at the end of this book.

[Zonnah]

Questions for Chapters 8 (Tyrion) - 11 (Daenerys)
(view spoiler)[


24) Well now we know what they want Tyrion for. Do you think he'd help Dany against his own family? He does still seem to hold a grudge, but would he totally betray them?

Well, he does not seem to like any of his family, so yes he would betray them.

25) We're starting to learn about the Dance of Dragons and now know where the book gets its name. What do you think of about the tale? Do we truly have the full picture of what happened yet?

No.

26) Could Stannis trust the Three Sisters? I believe that is what Davis is trying to do--form an alliance with them or keep them loyal? I'm a bit confused about what is happening in Davos' chapter.-

Me too.

27) Do you think Stannis can win the wildlings to his cause?

Not all of them.

28) That darn Dornish song is back. Why? There must be some significance to it.

Maybe.

29)What do you think of the horn being burned and Mance being killed?

I did not like that the horn was destroyed. It seemed to have been built up in the story and then had a quick ending. Maybe it is not the true horn. I am glad Jon helped Mance die quicker.

30) Seems like Jon is having second thoughts about taking Stannis up on his offer to take his father's name and lands.

31) Being in charge of the wall seems like a lonely position.

32) Do you think Dany will open the fighting pits?

It does seem like she might change her mind.

33) What do you think she'll do about her dragons? What do you think she should do?
I have no idea.

(hide spoiler)]

[Matt]

Questions for Chapters 8 (Tyrion) - 11 (Daenerys)

(view spoiler)[. 24) Well now we know what they want Tyrion for. Do you think he'd help Dany against his own family? He does still seem to hold a grudge, but would he totally betray them?

At the moment it seems like he will, but one thing reading these books has taught me is, just as you think you have it figured out, something happens out of nowhere that changes everything.

27) Do you think Stannis can win the wildlings to his cause?
I doubt it, they've gone to him for now because they are hungry and have nowhere else to go. Give them another option and they will turn against him.

29)What do you think of the horn being burned and Mance being killed?

Is it the real horn or just a forgery by Melisandre to try and break the wildlings, watching their one hope against the walls being destroyed.
The Mance murder was interesting, is it the real Mance? He denies over and over that he is Mance. But is that the truth or just a last desperate ploy to try and save himself?

32) Do you think Dany will open the fighting pits?

Most likely, yes.

33) What do you think she'll do about her dragons? What do you think she should do?

She seems to be sad that she's had to lock them away, the dragons are what made her into the person she is now. Locking them away is like denying a part of herself. I think she will have to release them before they begin to resent her

(hide spoiler)]

[Renee]

Questions for Chapters 8 (Tyrion) - 11 (Daenerys)
(view spoiler)[

24) Well now we know what they want Tyrion for. Do you think he'd help Dany against his own family? He does still seem to hold a grudge, but would he totally betray them?
I think he will. He has murdered his father, believed to have murdered his nephew, his sister hates him, his brother would resent him. There is no love there to betray.

25) We're starting to learn about the Dance of Dragons and now know where the book gets its name. What do you think of about the tale? Do we truly have the full picture of what happened yet?
There's always a bit more to know.

26) Could Stannis trust the Three Sisters? I believe that is what Davis is trying to do--form an alliance with them or keep them loyal? I'm a bit confused about what is happening in Davos' chapter.-
Me too.

27) Do you think Stannis can win the wildlings to his cause?
Some of them. Really, they have the same cause - to defeat the white walkers.

28) That darn Dornish song is back. Why? There must be some significance to it.
maybe

29)What do you think of the horn being burned and Mance being killed?
I think Mance is really dead, but I think he would have been a really helpful ally. I think that it wasn't the real horn.

30) Seems like Jon is having second thoughts about taking Stannis up on his offer to take his father's name and lands.
I don't think Jon will change his mind. I think he is just thinking about how it could have been.

31) Being in charge of the wall seems like a lonely position.
Being Lord of Winterfell would have been just as lonely. It's lonely at the top.

32) Do you think Dany will open the fighting pits?
Maybe, to curry favour with her people.

33) What do you think she'll do about her dragons? What do you think she should do?
She neeeds to spend time with them and train them.
(hide spoiler)]

[Zonnah]

Questions for Chapters 12 (Reek) through Chapter 15 (Davos)

(view spoiler)[


34. Did anyone suspect the real identify of “Reek” in this chapter?

Not until I was told.

35. This chapter was really high on the “ick” factor. Do you think Theon/Reek has gone crazy? Do you think he has gotten what he deserved? It’s hard to remember everything he did, but taking over Winterfell and killing innocent boys no doubt deserves some sort of consequence. Has he been punished enough?

He does not seem sane but who is to say if he got free he would go back to how he was. Well, didn't he have the innocent boys flayed? If so then yes he deserved it.

36. Do you think Lord Ramsay has good intentions toward Reek, considering the hell he has put him through? Why do you think he asked Reek to be his wedding attendant?

No good intentions. Not sure why he wants him at the wedding but with the history of the Red wedding it can not be good.

37. Oh my! When the fake Arya arrives, will Reek rat her out or hold his tongue?

I think he will hold his tongue. Also, he may not even be able to tell. It has been awhile since he saw her.

38. The Ranger tells Bran & co. that the caves are warded so the wights cannot pass. Meer asks him, “What about you?” He answers, “The cave is warded” implying he cannot pass either. So, we have suspected up until now that this person is not human, now we know for sure. We just don’t know what he is exactly. Not a wight, surely?

I don't think a wight. The wights seem to be zombie like and not a reasoning being.

39. Bran enters Hodor’s body to fight the wights. This didn’t bother me as much as the time he entered Hodor before. What did you think?

I am fine if he only does it to help. If he starts going in him just to walk then no.

40. Thoughts on the Little Woman and the Greenseer? Is she really more than 200 years old?

I am excited to finally be learning more about the children of the forest and hope they have a bigger role in the books.

41. Any idea why the Greenseer has been watching Bran his whole life? When he says Bran will fly, does he mean on dragons? I hope so! I can totally see Bran and Tyrion riding the dragons!

Not sure why he has been watching him for so long. But it was really weird how he was virtually dead and taken over by the tree but still alive.

42. In Tyrion’s chapter, he thinks a lot about history, especially about dragons. I suspect it could be foreshadowing that he’ll play a role with Dany and her dragons. They better get a move on. This book is already dragging! 10 pages of Tyrion eating biscuits and watching a naked septa swim. Must we wait until the next book for Tyrion to meet Dany?

LOL.

43. When the giant turtle makes an appearance, Tyrion thinks Gods and wonders always appear to attend the birth of kings. What does this mean? Does he think someone on their boat will be a King? Is there a King being born somewhere? I felt this could be significant but I had no idea what it meant. (Incidentally, I am still holding on to hope that Dany’s baby is still alive somewhere).

I did not catch that point and have no answer. Makes me wonder though.

44. Well, Davos is on his way to see Manderley. *sigh* BUT….just maybe… Cersei was lying about Manderley killing Davos, or she was misinformed. Interesting to hear how people are talking about Dany and her dragons.

I love reading the other side of the story. At first I did not like it but it is growing on me.

(hide spoiler)]

[Renee]

Questions for Chapters 12 (Reek) through Chapter 15 (Davos)
(view spoiler)[

May I just say that I miss Brienne, Jamie and Cersei?
Me too, I'm hanging for Cersei's death scene! I had a peek and she does have a couple of chapters later in the book.

34. Did anyone suspect the real identify of “Reek” in this chapter?
Not until he made the comment "Ayra underfoot", then I knew it wasn't the real Reek. I wasn't sure of the timeline at first.

35. This chapter was really high on the “ick” factor. Do you think Theon/Reek has gone crazy? Do you think he has gotten what he deserved? It’s hard to remember everything he did, but taking over Winterfell and killing innocent boys no doubt deserves some sort of consequence. Has he been punished enough?
I think he's been tortured enough. His treason deserves death or the wall.

36. Do you think Lord Ramsay has good intentions toward Reek, considering the hell he has put him through? Why do you think he asked Reek to be his wedding attendant?
I think he needs someone who knew Ayra to vouch that it is truly her he is marrying - even though Lord Ramsay knows it's not. I just looked back over a Theon chapter in Clash of Kings - looking for more about Reek. I think the real Reek killed Lord Ramsay and took over his identity, so Theon is noe Reek and Reek is now Ramsay...Maybe Ramsay needs someone to vouch that he is Ramsay too? I'm a bit confused now.

37. Oh my! When the fake Arya arrives, will Reek rat her out or hold his tongue?
I think he will go along with whatever deal he makes with Ramsay. I don't think he will rat her out.

38. The Ranger tells Bran & co. that the caves are warded so the wights cannot pass. Meer asks him, “What about you?” He answers, “The cave is warded” implying he cannot pass either. So, we have suspected up until now that this person is not human, now we know for sure. We just don’t know what he is exactly. Not a wight, surely?
He looks like a wight, he is dead with black cold hands etc. I think he is a really old one that has gained self control (like old vampires compared to new ones)


39. Bran enters Hodor’s body to fight the wights. This didn’t bother me as much as the time he entered Hodor before. What did you think?
No problem either, but he did neglect his own body and could have been killed and trapped in Hodor, thereby killing off Hodor. Wouldn't want that to happen.

40. Thoughts on the Little Woman and the Greenseer? Is she really more than 200 years old?
I think she is. Want to learn more about them.

41. Any idea why the Greenseer has been watching Bran his whole life? When he says Bran will fly, does he mean on dragons? I hope so! I can totally see Bran and Tyrion riding the dragons!
The Greenseer can see the future and knows Bran is destined for somethhing big, so has been keeping tabs on him. I though he was too far away from the dragons to get involved in that action, but maybe when they get to the wall he will be able to join in - with a special saddle. I was just thinking of Bran warging into birds to fly, but he seems to have a big destiny. Looking forward to seeing how it all fits together.

42. In Tyrion’s chapter, he thinks a lot about history, especially about dragons. I suspect it could be foreshadowing that he’ll play a role with Dany and her dragons. They better get a move on. This book is already dragging! 10 pages of Tyrion eating biscuits and watching a naked septa swim. Must we wait until the next book for Tyrion to meet Dany?
I think he will help Dany train the dragons.

43. When the giant turtle makes an appearance, Tyrion thinks Gods and wonders always appear to attend the birth of kings. What does this mean? Does he think someone on their boat will be a King? Is there a King being born somewhere? I felt this could be significant but I had no idea what it meant. (Incidentally, I am still holding on to hope that Dany’s baby is still alive somewhere).
Maybe Tyrion will marry Dany then he will be a king?

44. Well, Davos is on his way to see Manderley. *sigh* BUT….just maybe… Cersei was lying about Manderley killing Davos, or she was misinformed. Interesting to hear how people are talking about Dany and her dragons.
I think Davos will die. I don't want him to, but he seems more expendable now.
(hide spoiler)]

[Teresa]

Questions for Chapters 8 (Tyrion) - 11 (Daenerys)

(view spoiler)[24) Well now we know what they want Tyrion for. Do you think he'd help Dany against his own family? He does still seem to hold a grudge, but would he totally betray them?

I think he thinks he will – and likely would betray Cersei. I keep thinking he and Jaime will reconcile.

25) We're starting to learn about the Dance of Dragons and now know where the book gets its name. What do you think of about the tale? Do we truly have the full picture of what happened yet?

Does Martin ever give a full picture? Ha.

26) Could Stannis trust the Three Sisters? I believe that is what Davis is trying to do--form an alliance with them or keep them loyal? I'm a bit confused about what is happening in Davos' chapter.-

I don’t think he was heading there, but will try everything he can to help Stannios.

27) Do you think Stannis can win the wildlings to his cause?

No – but he may bring some into the seven cities.

28) That darn Dornish song is back. Why? There must be some significance to it.

Haven’t figured it out.

29)What do you think of the horn being burned and Mance being killed?

Not a fan. I think there could have been better uses for both. Do we really know what the horn does since it didn’t bring down the wall?

30) Seems like Jon is having second thoughts about taking Stannis up on his offer to take his father's name and lands.

I think he is just accepting his fate.

31) Being in charge of the wall seems like a lonely position.

Saw this with the prior leader too – what was his name?

32) Do you think Dany will open the fighting pits?

Seems to be leaning that direction – definitely having to confront the difficulties of coming out of slavery economy.

33) What do you think she'll do about her dragons? What do you think she should do?

Right now, it feels like she should be focusing on them – leaning to rule is important, but I think the dragons will be invaluable eventually. (hide spoiler)]

[Teresa]

Questions for Chapters 12 (Reek) through Chapter 15 (Davos)

(view spoiler)[34. Did anyone suspect the real identify of “Reek” in this chapter?

I wondered. In a deep dark part of my heart, I hoped.

35. This chapter was really high on the “ick” factor. Do you think Theon/Reek has gone crazy? Do you think he has gotten what he deserved? It’s hard to remember everything he did, but taking over Winterfell and killing innocent boys no doubt deserves some sort of consequence. Has he been punished enough?

Meh – I think he deserved the road to crazy. He did not have an easy path in life, being a ward, but he also had no character.

36. Do you think Lord Ramsay has good intentions toward Reek, considering the hell he has put him through? Why do you think he asked Reek to be his wedding attendant?

He must have an evil plan in there somewhere.

37. Oh my! When the fake Arya arrives, will Reek rat her out or hold his tongue?

So broken he will likely hold his tounge. I don’t think Ramsay would care that it was the wrong Arya so long as he got what he wanted out of is.

38. The Ranger tells Bran & co. that the caves are warded so the wights cannot pass. Meer asks him, “What about you?” He answers, “The cave is warded” implying he cannot pass either. So, we have suspected up until now that this person is not human, now we know for sure. We just don’t know what he is exactly. Not a wight, surely?

I don’t know.

39. Bran enters Hodor’s body to fight the wights. This didn’t bother me as much as the time he entered Hodor before. What did you think?

It seemed necessary, so it didn’t bother me as much – it also helped Hodor as much as Bran.

40. Thoughts on the Little Woman and the Greenseer? Is she really more than 200 years old?

Curiouser and curiouser.

41. Any idea why the Greenseer has been watching Bran his whole life? When he says Bran will fly, does he mean on dragons? I hope so! I can totally see Bran and Tyrion riding the dragons!

It think she means he will have the sight. But, I would love to see those two on dragons!

42. In Tyrion’s chapter, he thinks a lot about history, especially about dragons. I suspect it could be foreshadowing that he’ll play a role with Dany and her dragons. They better get a move on. This book is already dragging! 10 pages of Tyrion eating biscuits and watching a naked septa swim. Must we wait until the next book for Tyrion to meet Dany?

I do think he will play a role with Dany. And she could definitely use a good counselor.

43. When the giant turtle makes an appearance, Tyrion thinks Gods and wonders always appear to attend the birth of kings. What does this mean? Does he think someone on their boat will be a King? Is there a King being born somewhere? I felt this could be significant but I had no idea what it meant. (Incidentally, I am still holding on to hope that Dany’s baby is still alive somewhere).

No idea – perhaps Bran was born as a king by meeting the Greenseer?

44. Well, Davos is on his way to see Manderley. *sigh* BUT….just maybe… Cersei was lying about Manderley killing Davos, or she was misinformed. Interesting to hear how people are talking about Dany and her dragons.

I keep rooting for Davos. (hide spoiler)]

[Teresa]

Yorkshiretricky wrote: ". . .is it the real Mance? He denies over and over that he is Mance. But is that the truth or just a last desperate ploy to try and save himself?"

I had this thought while I was reading it, too. Especially given how we met him originally with Jon Snow having a hard time telling who Mance really was.

[Teresa]

Renee wrote: "I think he needs someone who knew Ayra to vouch that it is truly her he is marrying - even though Lord Ramsay knows it's not. I just looked back over a Theon chapter in Clash of Kings - looking for more about Reek. I think the real Reek killed Lord Ramsay and took over his identity, so Theon is noe Reek and Reek is now Ramsay...Maybe Ramsay needs someone to vouch that he is Ramsay too? I'm a bit confused now...."

I had totally forgotten this! That does put a different spin on it - Ramsey could be in need of a pawn. Of course, with the way weddings in general have gone, Ramsey should be careful because history could repeat itself. There is defintely something crazy coming up at this wedding.

[Zonnah]

Questions for Chapters 20 (Reek) to 23 (Daenerys)
(view spoiler)[

54. Ick. What a chapter. Everyone is insane, not even bordering on insanity. They’ve all crossed over into it, not just Theon/Reek. The Ironmen don’t bury their dead & they’re eating them? Comments.

Yeah, I was a bit confused about the cannibalism.

55. Geez, I had to look up who Victarion was when I heard his name. I’ve forgotten so much; how do people do this with years between books?

Not sure. I have been wondering this since now I will have to wait for the next book....

56. So, Theon/Reek recognized Jeyne Poole and it almost sent him over the edge even further, if that is possible. Will he do anything about it? Is there any chance that Theon/Reek will come back from this brainwashing?

There is a possibility. It was interesting that it was Jeyne. Either I missed that bit of information before or it was truly a surprise. I had thought she was dead.

57. Is Ramsay’s insane casual cruelty to the prisoners going to come back to haunt him? When people find out that surrendering is a worse fate than fighting to death in an honorable battle?

No idea.

58. What is your impression of Bowen Marsh? When his own effort to be voted the new Lord Commander, he supported Janos Slynt. I’m worried about Jon Snow. What did Jon Snow mean by telling him that Lord Commander Mormont was killed by his own black brothers? Does this mean he is becoming more cautious?

I think so.

59. What did you think about Jon Snow telling the men they could fight for the Watch, but didn’t have to don the black? Is this a wise decision?

Not sure about it being wise but it is a decision born from being desperate.

60. What is the significance of the Thenns, the ferocious wilding warriors, leaving and not taking any food?

Not sure and am a bit worried about that.

61. Yay, Tyrion is alive! Okay, I checked Wiki Ice again and Aegon/young Griff is one year older than Jon Snow. You’d never know it by his maturity in losing at cyvasse. I know he has been sheltered, but still. And why is Tyrion giving him advice? I thought he was going to go to Dany?

I think Tyrion was teaching him a lesson. Not just about Cyvasse but about life as well; a dual lesson.

62. Speaking of which… to which queen is Tyrion going to be delivered? (And Jorah Mormont is seeking out whores that look like Dany. What is the significance of that?)

I think he is being delivered to Cersi. I did not catch that about Jorah: interesting.

63. WTH? Do you think Dany is seriously considering marrying Hizdahr zu Loraq? Will he be able to bring peace for 90 days?

She did say maybe and the women were fickle.

64. And she is lusting after Daario? Whoa! Isn’t he proposing he own brand of a Red Wedding? (BTW, what a way to tell if someone is lying! Yikes.) At least she banned him from her presence. Comments.

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing, that we might have a red wedding part 2.

65. Which prophesy is right? The one made by Galazza Gahare, the Green Grace, or the one from Qaithe?

Who knows. Maybe all of them, lol.

(hide spoiler)]

[Zonnah]

Teresa wrote: "Yorkshiretricky wrote: ". . .is it the real Mance? He denies over and over that he is Mance. But is that the truth or just a last desperate ploy to try and save himself?"

I had this thought while ..."


Oh man the plot thickens. I can't wait to find out if this is true.

[Zonnah]

Ok, this may not mean anything but I thought I would share.
In the book The Mists of Avalon it mentions calling a shooting star a dragon, for they have a long tail of fire. So, maybe the shooting star in The game of thrones is for Dany.

[Lisa Kay]

Zonnah wrote: "In the book The Mists of Avalon it mentions calling a shooting star a dragon, for they have a long tail of fire. So, maybe the shooting star in The game of thrones is for Dany."

I'm thinking yes.

[Renee]

Questions for Chapter 16 (Daenerys) through Chapter 19 (Davos)
(view spoiler)[

45. Do you agree with Dany’s decision to wait longer to return to Westeros?
She needs to learn to control the dragons before she can come back.

46. Why does Dany not trust Xaro Xhoan Daxos? Do you think he’s working for her enemies?
I think he just wants her out of their lands so they can get everything back how it was. Dany has detroyed the local aconomy that made him rich. He gave her a warning and a means to leave, others would just try to assasinate.

47. Does anyone understand the bloody glove? Dany says it means war…war with whom?
I think if she doesn't leave, the 13 and others will either attempt to assasinate her or start a war against her.

48. Jon Snow gives Stannis battle advice, and even tells him where to find 3000 more fighters. Doesn’t this go against his vow to not take sides? Do you think by sending him to find the 3000 fighters he’s just trying to get Stannis out of his hair for awhile?
He told himself it was just words - he keeps pushing the line that he won't cross. Jon doesn't want to take sides about the fight for King, but knows he needs Stannis's support in the war to save everyone from the never ending night of the wight walkers.

49. What do you think will happen with Melisandre, since she’s staying at the Wall? And how will they feed all those Wildlings??
Maybe Melisandre can witch up some grub.

50. Speaking of Melisandre, what’s up with the ruby on Rattleshirt’s wrist? She controls him with it? Weird.
More bizzare stuff.

51. OK, now I feel dumb. Am I the only one who didn’t figure out the mystery of Young Griff? Now I understand the “kings are born” remark (question 43). I need to pay more attention! I did think the kid was unusually well-educated for a sellsword’s son. I must say this is a clever plot twist by GRRM.
Forehead slap...of course.

52. Have we seen the last of Tyrion? I’m guessing not. (I haven’t peeked ahead at the chapters)
I hope not - have to peek - plenty more Tyrion chapters, phew.

53. Did you get the feeling that Manderley and his family are afraid of the Freys and Lannisters? Wylla was the only one brave enough to speak the truth. Davos is sentenced to death, but will he really die?
Not sure.
(hide spoiler)]

[Renee]

Zonnah wrote: "Ok, this may not mean anything but I thought I would share.
In the book The Mists of Avalon it mentions calling a shooting star a dragon, for they have a long tail of fire. So, maybe ..."

How are you coping juggling these two books? I think I might be neglecting my family a little, though with one on audiobook at least I'm keeping up with the housework.