Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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The Book of Cold Cases
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The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St James - June 2022 Adult or Non-Fiction BOM (starts 2 June 2022)
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
Mod
10. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
That there was more going on than anyone realized. And that someone else was involved. Shea probably also realized Beth, while very rich, had a very sad and lonely life even as a young child.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I'm thinking it was manipulation on Lily's part to say this. To shift the blame from herself to Beth because I don't think Lily if the type of person who ever takes responsibility for anything. I'm guessing after both Beth's parents were gone Lily was counting on something from the family fortune and didn't get it. I also assume Lily is the one who killed Julian, again hoping to get $$ and officially acknowledged as part of the family.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
Well, I'm not sure how interested he was in being married to Mariana in the first place. Or for that matter much interested in being a father to Beth. And then (1950's) to find out your wife had a baby out of wedlock before you were married is very different to that happening now. Not that that should be an excuse and it just made an unhappy marriage that much worse. But I am curious if Lily's father is ever revealed and it's related to the level of animosity Julian had towards her.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
That she's a child born out of wedlock? That she knows she's not right in the head?
One thing I find very odd about Lily's situation is that she's in foster care. She was given up as a newborn, born of a white rich teenager. From her physical description I'm going to assume her father is white as well. How was she not adopted and taken away from that town? I know adoption was done differently back then but Mariana ticked all the boxes to have her child adopted immediately by a family that could afford to do so. I find it really strange.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think Beth learned how to manipulate from Lily but in the end wanted Lily to stay and not leave her alone. I don't think Lily cares about Beth in the same way. So Lily has something Beth wants and can hold it over her.
DQs Day 2: Chap 20-29 - I think this is Day 3...10. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
The way it is written it is like the house is frozen in time so it takes on its own character. It is reflecting the mental health problems that Beth has been carrying from her childhood.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
Another little girl.. what. I'm not keen on this plot development. Is Lily real or has Beth developed another persona. Not sure about this yet.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
Who knows.. I wonder who the actual father is will become an important plot point.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
The house is mirroring all the strange things that is going on. There are a lot of plot points thrown out there at the moment which I hope are resolved satisfactorily by the conclusion.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I'm still not sure that Lily is an actual person but maybe one of Beth's personas. Why has nobody especially the police even mentioned Lily throughout the investigation. It's not making all that much sense to me at this point. I'll read on hoping all will be revealed.
Mod
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-195. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?
I would have believed the house was haunted and would have gotten the hell out of there! HAHAHA.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
Since I read almost 100% romance, I hope they will get together. But most likely they will remain friends.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
Maybe the house made her crazy?
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
I don't think I would go back because the spirit(s) seem sinister. No all spirits are though.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
When we first moved into our house that we live in. One night I woke up because I felt someone staring at me. There was a girl in the corner and I thought it was my daughter. So I told her to go back to her room and go to bed and turned back over. I didn't hear a door open or close so I looked over again and the girl was gone. I then went to check on my daughter and she was in her room fast asleep and she wasn't faking so there was no way that it had been her in the room. My husband was working nights then so I called him to see if he had come home or something but he hadn't. I definitely saw a girl. She never came back though.
Mod
10. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
Perhaps there will be some hidden bodies / weapons as well as the tech-savvy ghostie.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I don't think Beth could have stopped it - unless the only way she could have stopped more is by allowing herself to be arrested....
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
No thoughts on who Lily's dad is. Like Judith, the whole Lily dynamic is weird - in that day and age, and for people in Mariana's position, adoptions would have been massively secret and out of town / state, so this involvement in Lily's life is suspect.
I can get Julian being off with Lily - he's hardly a paragon with the other two, and he (to at least some degree) chose to have them in his life. Why he'd allow someone who'd damage his setup into his life I don't get!
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
I'm gonna assume some abusive foster / adoptive parenting there that have messed her up, coupled with Julian and even Mariana's attitude towards her (and actually, Julian is at least consistent in his dislike of her, unlike Mariana)
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
Beth can be dependent on Lily and ignore societal norms for everything else, I guess? And she'd've learnt manipulation tricks from Lily.
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think that she found out that she wasn't just going to be able to explain away the occurrences in that house and that something sinister was there.
Also, she found that Beth's life wasn't all sunshine and roses growing up.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
Clearly Lily is the killer. Beth thinks she could have stopped her but I don't think that's the case. I think that Lily is sick and she would have done it anyway.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I'm not sure who Lily's father is but I think Julian hates her because she destroys his perfect family facade and she is a reminder of how fake it all is.
Or maybe he sees her for what she is?
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
I think she knows that she was not made in love. That her mother gave her away so willingly due to the circumstances of her birth.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think that Lily is the more powerful one because she understands the dynamic. She's clearly a sociopath and that was apparent from a young age. She understands how to manipulate people to get what she wants. She understands her power and that makes her powerful.
Beth does not know these things at this point.
DQs Day 2: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think learning how nothing has changed, even the cold cream, was certainly reinforced. It's such a spooky place.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have? At this point I was thinking that Beth might have some sort of split personality. I don't think Beth could have stopped the murder (unless she did it herself). It's weird with these parts seeing Beth like she was the "good girl" when how she talks to Shea, Beth sounds more like the "bitter girl".
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.) I thought it could be Julian until he was just so mean about the whole thing. But I have no respect for his behavior - what a jerk. I guess he wanted a "pure virgin" wife - jerk.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this? I think the Lily has been told that all of her life. No wonder she identifies with the house. Note: I suspect some of the mansions on the hills outside our city are abominations too .... or maybe I'm just jealous :)
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?I think Lily had the relationship power. BUT maybe Beth learned from Lily - she certainly manipulates a lot now.
Lisa - (Aussie Girl) wrote: "DQs Day 2: Chap 20-29 - I think this is Day 3...10. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. D..."
Jeez lol Thank you, I corrected it. :)
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think what she saw upstairs definitely confirmed that something is definitely wrong with the house and the whole situation.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I think maybe she saw Lily on the day of the murder/s and knew what was going to happen. Whether she could have actually stopped her though, I'm not sure. I don't think Lily is someone who could be easily stopped!
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
Judging by Julian's treatment of Lily, I'm thinking he is definitely not the father. I understand that Julian might be angry and resentful about the secret but it's really not fair that he is taking it out on a small child. I'm really not sure who the father could be.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
I think Lily has been made to feel like the is an "abomination that shouldn't exist" by her birth family wanting very little to do with her and her difficult childhood. She can maybe feel how "evil" the house is and can relate to the negative energy it gives off.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
Beth certainly learnt a lot from Lily and her ability to at least appear powerful and in charge. Lily will always have the upper hand though as she doesn't seem to have much in the way of human emotions.
DQs Day 2: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
The house is a memorial to an unloved child. Beth is barely represented with the meagerest room and a 'gray' blanketed bed. The story is becoming more of a "Twilight Zone" story.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I think Beth may have a split personality. At first it seemed as if there were 2 girls but most everything could have been done by one. By the end of this section they are fourteen and twelve but Beth's room still has only a single bed and no referral is made to Lily being in a separate room. For this to be accurate then Mariana has to go off the deep end every Christmas and believe her "lost" daughter has come to visit and Julian has to understand that Beth and he have a love/hate relationship. The split personality theory has problems, but so does the evil step-sister theory.
Lily's accusation that Beth could have stopped it refers to getting help and diagnosis. They mention several times that the murder trial never had Beth psychoanalyzed.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I think Julian sees the 2 sides of Beth and hates the evil one. I think he realizes that Mariana's mental problems stem from the secret pregnancy she had, whether she birthed a live child or not. He is as trapped in this situation as they are by never seeking outside help.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
This supports the split personality theory.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think Beth is learning from the Lily half, but I think Beth is also tired of the dueling parts of her (i.e. the insomnia, the driving, the reach out to Shea to expose her).
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think Shea learned how lonely Beth’s life has been. I don’t think the house has given up all its secrets just yet.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I think it’s more manipulation from Lily. I don’t think Beth had ANY of the power in that situation.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I don’t think the father matters. Julian’s hatred probably stems from the blemish Lily represents to the family’s image. Image seems VERY important to him.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
Perhaps Lily, while having no remorse, was aware of how aberrant her behavior was to “the norm.” Also, she understood loneliness from being in the foster system, so she might’ve had a deeper connection to the desolate atmosphere of the house. She understood it’s oppressiveness.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
There’s more going on between them than we’ve been told yet. Something happened to cause the shift in their relationship that gave the power to Beth.
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think Shea begins to see that Beth's life has been very different than what has been portrayed in the media and what people "expect" the rich to be/have. I think Beth's childhood room would have shown her that Beth had a difficult and drab upbringing.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
Lily is clearly without normal emotions - makes me think of the TV character Dexter. I don't think anyone could have stopped Lily, unless she would have been caught and arrested or put into a psychiatric facility.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I think Julian is worried about appearances and what Lily being found out will do to his reputation. Julian didn't see to have any investment in the family so everything was a burden to him, Lily more so because of her parentage. Seems like the sensible thing to have done was for the family to adopt Lily, although maybe Julian still wouldn't have been able to accept her fully as she wasn't his child.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
I think Lily knows she isn't right and that she lacks the emotions that would make her normal. The house isn't normal either as it was never changed as time moved on....it is the albatross that holds all the problems and issues that the girls can't escape and won't allow them to be/do what they want.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
Beth and Lily are kindred spirits. Both are emotionally lacking or damaged. I think that Beth drew from Lily's strength and ability to manipulate and that both girls have power over the other. As time went on and with the trial, Beth found that she could use the same type of manipulation that Lily used.
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think she confirmed Beth's life is still stuck in the past, how her childhood wasn't particularly happy despite having everything she might need.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I guess the note was a clue for Beth. Beth could have stopped Lily if she had decided to tell the truth about her sister. Also, It seems Lily had some sociopathic tendencies, she is described as not showing much feeling and it is implied she had something to do with another man's murder. I think Beth could have stopped her if she had shared her suspicions before the Lady Killer murders happened.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I think he and Mariana ended up together through an arranged marriage. They were not in love or happy together. When he found out his wife had had a kid before, he probably felt cheated. Having Lily around probably reminds him of this. Also he probably fears for his reputation, so he would want Lily as far away from his life as possible.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
She has probably felt unwanted/unloved much like the house. Also I think she is aware of how she isn't like everyone else when it comes to feelings and empathy so she sees herself as an "abomination".
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think when they were younger Lily had more power over Beth. Beth was lonely and she depended on Lily. I think she learned to manipulate people by emulating Lily. At some point the power balance in their relationship seems to have shifted, probably after the murder trial. In the present Beth seems to have the most power
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think Shea learned that your eyes could be deceiving and possibly that Beth is trapped by her past.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I think we are going to find out that Beth caught Lily murdering her father and covered it up because of sisterly love and maybe guilt that she had so much that Lily didn't by virtue of birth order. If that's the case, she may have stopped the Lady Killer before she got started.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I think Julian hates her because as hard as he tried to make his life perfect, she's a living, breathing reminder that perfection is a myth. I have no idea who her father actually is.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
Society was not kind to "bastard" children in the 1950s. She lives in the foster care system because Mariana hid her as a shameful secret. She probably feels that way about herself.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I do think Lily is the more powerful one because she is the one that their mother dotes on, and she's also the older one who is teaching younger Beth how to manipulate.
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room? Shea is confused its like she has walked back in time to when Beths mother decorated the house, it appears nothing has been changed, a far cry from the sleek, modern Beth that is portrayed in the public. Beths childhood bedroom lacks the warmth and nostalgia, its apparent things were not as they seemed in this house.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have? The note reveals what Beth knew from a young age Lily was dangerous, her lack of empathy and coldness Beth was wary of her from a young age and learnt to go along with Lily not fight back. The note taunts Beth for not saying something she could have prevented the murders, its clear Lily is involved somehow with the murders
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.) Understandable his wife's
infidelity resulted in a child he isn't happy. Maybe he suspects who the father is, which explains his reaction.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this? Lily has been ostracised as a bastard child, hidden away, moved around in the foster system, those feelings of abandonment and shame have impacted her sense of self worth from the beginning.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
Lily has the most power, Beth was impressionable and Lily took advantage of this, she saw it as a weakness, her only power having been cast aside.
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-195. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?
Thats Ghosts hands down and I would be getting out of there quick smart!
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well? Yes I think they will end up together, Michael seems to get Shea, he listens to her, comes across as a good fit for her.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?. Sent away when she was 18 in the 50's my mind immediately went to pregnancy, back then it was frowned upon an unmarried women she would have been ostracised from society.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that? It was a little creepy, I listened to this one on Audio and yep super creepy. Although the >... the "Hey there" was even worse. Yes I think animals can sense danger, they can a keen sense to these things, I wouldn't have gone back to that house ewwww
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share? No nothing
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
Definitely that it's spooky. I think that helps or at least will help Shea realize that Beth and her life just aren't what she (and honestly everyone else) thought they were. Not everything's black and white.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
Well I assume Lily was the murderer, and that's why Beth protected her. I also think Beth might have stood idly by while Beth was killing the men in the cars (not sure about Mr. Greer though) while Lily was daring her (not) to stop her. All Beth ever wanted was a friend, a loving family, approval. She was hoping to receive that from Lily, even if she had started to dislike her. Lily was the only family she had at this point.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
He probably knows more than we're led to believe so far. I just wouldn't see why he would hate her so much.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
Lily was born and ended up in foster care, being illegitimate, therefore "unwanted". The mansion was built, but also not wanted in its original state, so the Greers renovated and complety changed it. They're both "dark and twisty".
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think Beth learned from the best, her half sister Lily - although I've briefly wondered if it could be possibly that Lily killed Beth and took her place, but then again I think Lily would act/feel differently in "Beth's" POV.
10. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?That the house hasn't changed at all so Beth is stuck in the past, and that Beth's life was difficult despite all of her surface advantages.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
Since Lily is most likely the murderer, I think she's probably saying that maybe if Beth had been sweeter to her then maybe Lily wouldn't have been forced to take all of the actions that she did.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I think that finding out your partner has a secret child is a shock and then especially considering his position in society and their background it would have been a "shameful" for her to have had a child out of wedlock. I wouldn't be surprised if the father was someone who knew Mariana's father, considering her own sheltered background. It could be a friend or a business partner.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
I'm not sure but I keep thinking about how the father built those windows to look at the ocean and then put in the curtains to hide them and how Beth said she thought she understood because of how the view made her feel. I think the house brings up unpleasant feelings in people and thinks of herself in the same way. Hidden, dark.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
Yes, I think so. Lily taught Beth how to be manipulative so she's obviously capable of being so, but I don't think it's as instinctive as it is with Lily.
I'm really sorry. We had to put my cat down Thursday and I haven't been much in the mood for reading the past few days. I'm supposed to do questions for the section tomorrow, and I'm trying to catch up but I don't think I'll be able to do so in time.
Mod
Suzanne, can you take Queenie's set?
Queenie, if you can't catch up for the last section (or just don't want to) we will have to pass on to Vicky of Circe
Oh I'm so sorry Queenie. That's so difficult and heartbreaking!It's about 5:45 a.m. here. I actually finished the book last night. I have the audio, so let me do a little listening/thinking to come up with questions for the earlier set without spoiling the end. I'll get them up in an hour or so if that works. Then Queenie (or Vicky) can take the last set.
I should be able to take the last set then I think! Thank you, I appreciate it.
Mod
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-38 15. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-3815. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
No child should go through what Lily experienced, it's clear she had an unhappy childhood. No, not necessarily sympathy, especially knowing what she did later. One thing doesn't excuse another but it does explain things.
I don't think it's Beth's responsibility. She was still young herself, younger than Lily. It's the parents that should have done something.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
Mmm, can't think of a reason, except maybe that they were afraid of Lily but that doesn't make much sense either.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
No idea, I'm still puzzled why. Don't think it has been explained so far; Beth seems like a well behaved & nice child so don't see why Lily is put on a pedestal.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
He does seems that. I've finished the book so won't elaborate.
I'm a bit behind because I've been sick, but I'm looking forward to catching up today!DQs Day 1: Chap 1-11
1. Have you read the The Sun Down Motel by this author? If so, does it change your expectation for this book? Either way, what are your expectations for this book?
I haven't read anything by this author. From the synopsis, I was kind of expecting a semi-typical thriller. However, the first section has me looking forward to reading it a lot more. I think it'll be better than I had expected.
2. The MC writes about cold cases and is in her late 20s and divorced. I have read quite a few horror/thriller/mystery books recently where the MC is a recently divorced, usually a bit older, woman. Have you experienced this as well? Why do you think authors might make this choice? Why do you think the choice was made for this book?
I don't read a ton of horror/thriller, but I have seen this trend talked about. I feel like part of it has to do with more recent women's empowerment movements and the reality that women are wanting to take their lives into their own hands. As a divorced woman in my mid-20s, I like to see the stories of "redemption".
3. This section includes the start of the interview. Did it go the way you expected? Any one comment really stick out to you?
I think the one thing that surprised me was how quickly and aggressively the paranormal stuff started happening. That alone would have had be running, screaming out of the house, so I'm curious to see how crazy things will get.
4. What do you think about the ghostly occurrences in this section? How do they add to the story (or maybe detract)?
For me, personally, I think the ghost aspect of the story adds to the plot a lot. Crime stories and "typical" thrillers are okay in my mind, but the paranormal thrillers are what will always keep me up at night.
Mod
15. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
Maybe a little bit, but only up to a point do I feel for Lily. She clearly needed help she wasn't getting on many different levels and again I'm going back to the thought of why the heck wasn't she adopted out into a family as a newborn and ended up in foster care. This does not compute with me at all.
And no, I don't think Beth could of stopped it. She was a child and had no proof. Somethings are the responsibilities of adults and it's horrible how often those responsibilities are ignored.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
Maybe some loyalty to Julian and Mariana and the fact they wanted Lily kept secret? Beth makes more sense, she's trying to bizarrely protect what's left of her family.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
Guilt for giving her up. The constant desire to make up for giving Lily away as a newborn and not being her mother. Though based on Beth's experience I'm not sure Lily missed out on as much as she thinks she did. Aside from the money part.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
He does but I hope he's not. Shea's had enough bad things happen to her already. I'm hoping he's a foil for all the crappy male character's in this book.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-3815. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
I do feel bad for Lily the way Julian treats her and how she's treated in foster care; however, as she grows up she's 100% responsible for the choices she makes and I don't have much sympathy for her in her more grown up years.
No, I don't think Beth could have stopped her because it seems like nobody can tell Lily anything. Her personality is too strong and she is so manipulative that I think she'd have definitely been able to manipulate Beth.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
Maybe it falls along the line of opening a can of worms. Perhaps since Ransom had been in love with Mariana he didn't want to further damage her image and he figured Beth was not guilty so why bring it up? Also, he insinuated that perhaps Mariana was raped and perhaps that would bring more shame on her.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
I think Lily is the favorite partially because Mariana feels guilt that she doesn't have custody of her and the few times she sees her, her daughter is terribly mistreated by Julian. It's possible that Lily is more like Mariana than we realize and that might also make her feel closer to her.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
I have distrust Michael since the beginning, especially after he'd withheld that his father was in on Beth's case. Why wouldn't he have told Shea that?
DQs Day 1: Chap 1-111. Have you read the The Sun Down Motel by this author? If so, does it change your expectation for this book? Either way, what are your expectations for this book?
I have not read The Sun Down Motel I want to though. I expect a huge twist and many paranormal activities.
2. The MC writes about cold cases and is in her late 20s and divorced. I have read quite a few horror/thriller/mystery books recently where the MC is a recently divorced, usually a bit older, woman. Have you experienced this as well? Why do you think authors might make this choice? Why do you think the choice was made for this book?
Yes, in many of my books the women are in their 30s-40s. I think they feel safer having an older more "mature" character in murder mystery books. I think the author wanted to show a different POV. Also, with the book goes back and forth from the late 1970s to late 2010s it gives the book balance.
3. This section includes the start of the interview. Did it go the way you expected? Any one comment really stick out to you?
No, I wasn't really expecting anything too big to happen in the beginning. I really enjoyed learning about both characters' back stories, especially Beth's mother being trapped, crazy, etc.
4. What do you think about the ghostly occurrences in this section? How do they add to the story (or maybe detract)?
Like I said in the first question I believe the paranormal will have a big presence in this book. I don't think they detract I like the suspense.
Mod
15. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
Some sympathy, for Lily as a child placed badly within the system (I'm with Judith on the "this is bonkers" line, give my brother's son was deliberately placed with them in part because he was nowhere near his son's birth family - and that's current practice in enlightened times, not a forced adoption from a raped mother (though I am not 100% sold on the "Mariana was a total innocent", but accept that people thought that)
No, Beth couldn't have stopped her, by the time she was suspicious Lily was too good at hiding her reality and able to shift blame.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
Well he couldn't because of privilege, but she's just warped in need of a family of some sorts I guess.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
One reason would be is that she actually loved Lily's father, whilst we know she doesn't love Julian. Even if she didn't love Lily's father, she could still represent an idealistic hope that she could have had a perfect relationship with Lily if people hadn't taken her from her.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
He does seem perfect. I'll be cross if it turns out he's Lily's child cunningly placed to control Shea!
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-195. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?.
Honestly, it depends on who I am talking to. Many people don't like to talk about ghosts. So of course at first I would try logically but when it doesn't add up it doesn't add up.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I am not sure I think both are interested. I think Michael may be interested in her for slightly different reasons. Something seems off about him.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
I think something made Mrs. Greer crazy. It's just a matter of when and what does.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
Yes, it was scary. I always have felt animals and young children can sense the paranormal better than others. I would have definitely gone back to the house but during the day only!
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
I am a huge horror, thriller, suspense, mystery, Halloween, etc. fan! I have had a few experiences but the one that stays with me happened when I was six years old. I had a horrible nightmare and when I woke up I kid you not I was levitating over my bed with my entire body flat against the ceiling. After what felt like forever I finally fell onto my bed. I will never forget that pit I felt in my stomach from falling. The next morning at breakfast my mom told me not to be jumping on my bed in the middle of the night!!!!
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-195. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?.
I try to find a logical explanation for things first, but I definitely believe in ghosts, and this is an occasion when I probably would have labelled it as a paranormal occurrence.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I'm in a romance mood lately, so I'm hoping that she'll break out of her shell a little bit and explore possibilities with him. I think he might be interested as well, but he understands that she has her own issues to work through (which, for me, would be a huge sign of emotional intelligence and a total green flag).
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
She may have been crazy, but one of my theories is that it could have been an unwanted pregnancy. Perhaps there was another daughter that we don't know about that is responsible for all the murders?
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
Paranormal and supernatural stuff is super interesting to me, but it also scares the crap out of me. I have revisited places where I've experienced things, so I can't say for sure whether I would have returned or not. I definitely believe that animals are in tune with that stuff, and I would have had the same reaction as Shea did by trying to figure out what exactly set Winston off.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
I've had lots of paranormal stuff happen to and around me throughout my whole life. I've seen people standing at the end of my bed, heard things on recordings while trying to "ghost hunt," had brand new batteries drained, had my blankets and pillows pulled on in the middle of the night, and I've used ouija boards multiple times.
After my dad passed away, our song (Arms Wide Open by Creed) came on my stereo, and when I knew I was going to lose it, I tried changing it, and none of the buttons on my stereo or remote would work all of a sudden, so I had to get someone else to change the song.
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-19 5. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?
Logically as well. I would go with old houses and bad fixtures first.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I think they are already friends of a sort, and a shared interest could lead to romance. Also, she pays him as an expert and not an employee so no real power dynamic issue in that direction.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
I think that is too straightforward but since I have read ahead, I will say that I did not guess what was going on.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
The book no. In real life, maybe or I’d think someone was messing with me and not go back. My cat liked to stare at the ceiling at a 100 year old house I lived in but I think it was the water pipes but I used to call it watching the ghosts. There were also rats in the walls so most odd noise could be explained by that.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
I lived in a place that believed ghosts inhabited really big trees and you had to give the trees food to please the ghosts. The alternative was to cut the tree down before it got too big.
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think she learned that the house is basically frozen in time. It's like it's stuck back in the eighties or whenever. Or perhaps it's a cage for Beth? I'm gonna be honest, beyond the spooky stuff, I don't really see how the house plays a part in this story. It's more the malevolent spirit of her half-sister, if it's anything supernatural at all.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I'm thinking Lily wanted more from Beth than Beth was willing to forgive. Lily seems like the type that would go on a murder spree to prove or make a point. I don't think Beth could have actually stopped it, I think Lily is just being manipulative and gaslighty.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
Pretty sure he hates her because she's evidence that Mariana had a life before him. That she had been in love with someone else. His behavior towards her is awful, but he's also a pretty terrible husband and father, so I'm not at all surprised. I haven't a clue who might be Lily's father.
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
I'm sure Lily has been called all kinds of things because she was born outside of wedlock. She's probably felt unwanted and unloved all her life, so she relates to this unloved house.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think Beth 100% learned all her manipulative tactics from Lily. I think still holds sway over Beth, so she's definitely the more powerful of the two.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-3815. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
I don't feel sympathy towards her, but I do understand how bad situations can help someone turn bad, so it explains a little bit better all that Lily has done. I don't like when a character keeps feeling guilt because he/she didn't stop another character because it's never that simple.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
They would only anger Lily because apparently there was no proof, Beth could also end up being an accomplice, and to finish it all, Beth probably killed Lily in the end (or let her die).
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
I think is purely guilt. Also a little bit of finally having the possibility of contact with someone who was not always there, so it turns this person "more important".
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
I'm wary of him since the beginning. I hope he ends up being an ok guy, but yeah, I'm still wary.
DQs Day 1: Chap 1-111. Have you read the The Sun Down Motel by this author? If so, does it change your expectation for this book? Either way, what are your expectations for this book?
I have read The Sun Down Motel, it was ok. I have no expectations for this book.
2. The MC writes about cold cases and is in her late 20s and divorced. I have read quite a few horror/thriller/mystery books recently where the MC is a recently divorced, usually a bit older, woman. Have you experienced this as well? Why do you think authors might make this choice? Why do you think the choice was made for this book?
I haven't noticed that trend in the books I read. I think authors like to use that to make the protagonist be in a transition state in life, or they are finding themselves or something like that.
3. This section includes the start of the interview. Did it go the way you expected? Any one comment really stick out to you?
The interview went about how I expected, except for the paranormal stuff that happened toward the end.
4. What do you think about the ghostly occurrences in this section? How do they add to the story (or maybe detract)?
I liked the ghost stuff with Beth when she was alone, it was a little creepy. The stuff during the interview was a little much, but maybe it'll be important in some way.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-38 15. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
Sympathy for Lily? Yes and no. The small amount of sympathy I do have is because of her rough upbringing and treatment from Julian. But even at the early ag you could see the manipulations at play. And no, I don’t think Beth had the ability to stop her.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
I feel Beth is trying to save everyone involved, including Ransom and herself, from Lily’s wrath. If they never introduce her to the narrative, she has no reason to make an appearance. I also felt at this point that Beth had obviously gotten rid of Lily after the trial as the murders stopped and Beth had lived in relative peace.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
I kind of have some experience here. I have an older half-brother from my father’s previous marriage. We had no contact with him until I was in college, but I always felt my father had some emotions about my brother being his firstborn and I was something to keep my mother happy. That “firstborn” feeling for Lily along with the guilt of abandoning her probably filed Mariana’s favoritism.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
I had an uneasy feeling about Michael from the beginning, but as the story unfolded I began to trust him more.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-3815. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
Of course I feel sympathy for Lily, I'm sure growing up was hard for her. The foster system sucks even know, and I'm sure it was even worse back in the 50s and 60s. No child should ever have to experience what she was going through, but ending up as a serial killer? That's a bit much... (although scientifically proven that there's a connection, I know I know :() I don't think Beth actually could have stopped her though, Lily just would have vanished again and murdered people wherever she went. I also don't think people would have believed Beth had she told the truth, so there's really not much she could have done.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
Like I said above, I don't think anyone would have believed them. It really would have felt way too convenient, the story of a "secret daughter/sister"...
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
Hmm. I feel like this might have been the case because Marian had to give her up, her first baby. I'm sure she would have wanted to keep Lily, so either she already was in a dark place by the time she had Beth, or she might have felt like she didn't deserve Beth because of "abandoning" Lily first. Or it just hurt too much, loving Beth and being close to her, while she wasn't able to do the same with/for Lily too.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
I honestly would like to trust him but he's kinda giving me on off kinda vibe.... idk, something's not right about him.
DQs Day 3: Chap 20-2910. Beth's house has seemed important from the beginning of the story and there have been a lot of descriptions of the "Frankenstein ugly" house. During one of Shea's interviews Beth told her to go upstairs and see her childhood bedroom and then she said, "Not all of the answers you want so desperately are going to come from me. Some of them are going to come from this house." What do you think Shea learned from the house when she perused Beth's room?
I think she started to understand a little more what Beth's childhood was like and how she could end up so emotionless. If I were looking at Beth's room, I would have picked up on the lack of personality or child-like features and been sad that Beth had to live in such a sad space.
11. We now have a better insight into the note that was left at the murder scene that said, in part, Am I bitter or am I sweet? In this section we got a lot of details about how this "bitter/sweet" was played out in the house with Mariana and the two girls. Lily also told Beth that everything was her fault and she could have stopped it. What do you think the note will reveal about the murderer and how do you think Beth could've stopped it or could she have?
I'm thinking that the conversation that Shea heard on her phone may have been overheard by Lily, which made her angry or spiteful and caused her to want to show everyone how bitter she could be. So far, I don't think that Beth could have realistically done anything to stop it, but Lily may have made her feel like she could have.
12. Julian's treatment of Lily is rather atrocious, especially considering how young she is when she first visits them. Why do you think he hates her so much and who do you suspect Lily's father is? (I have only read through chapter 29 for my questions, so I don't even know if that is revealed. Just curious what others are thinking about the situation.)
I agree that his behavior is mean and immature, but I can understand that Lily is probably a reminder of how his wife behaved "improperly" (for that time period). At this point, I'm not sure who her father is, but perhaps the murder victims have something to do with her search for her father?
13. Lily told Beth she wanted a lot of things, including the house. Beth told Lily she hated the house to which Lily said, "That's because you don't understand it...It's an abomination that shouldn't exist...It's exactly like me." What do you think she meant by this?
Unfortunately, Lily has probably felt all her life like no one truly cares for her (which may sadly be the truth), which may have led her to believe that she is wholly unwanted and should not exist. Lily was created and then given up, similar to how the house was remodeled and then disliked and not cared for in a loving way.
14. Lily appears to have more power in the relationship between her and Beth, but based on Beth's current day ability to manipulate others, do you think Lily really is the more powerful one in their relationship? Why or why not?
I think that Lily is the more powerful one in terms of manipulation, even if Beth seems to be more powerful than other people. I think that both girls went through a lot of trauma that caused mental health issues. However, I feel like Lily's mental health spiraled way out of control, which caused her to gain "power" by making others afraid of her, while Beth stayed pretty strong and only learned manipulation tactics from Lily because she cared about her.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-3815. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
Certainly I feel a bit of sympathy for Lily. She has it rough due to no fault of her own, but I also don't see it as an excuse. I don't agree with Beth. All she could have done was tell her parents and she had no proof. Mariana would never have believed her and Julian would probably have used it as an excuse to push her further away from the family.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
I like him. He's clever without being overtly egotistical about the fact. Ransom definitely held the information about Lily close to his vest because of his feelings for Mariana, but Beth could also have been further ruined if it came out that she tried to protect her sister who murdered people in cold blood.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
In a word, guilt. Mariana felt guilty that she wasn't there for her daughter and in a bid to make things better, she was overly enthusiastic about their relationship and inadvertently hurt Beth.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
I think she can. If there's anything he isn't being straight with her about, he may know that she was Girl A but I don't think that changes how he feels.
DQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-3815. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
I felt bad for Lily as a child for the abuse she had to go through. But the descriptions given seem to point out that she had some sociopathic behaviour and as she gets older she is shown as a manipulative person who I wouldn't feel sorry for. I think Beth could not have stopped her as a child. Perhaps when she was acused she could have said something about Lily and a graphology test could have been used to tie her to the murders?
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
He gave Shea a confirmation on Lily's character and the dangerous feeling she gave off. I think they were afraid of Lily and decided not to talk.
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
I think Mariana feels guilty over abandoning Lily and tries to get forgiveness by being kinder to her and showing her she is important.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
He seems really good and I don't want to doubt him
DQs Day 1: Chap 1-111. Have you read the The Sun Down Motel by this author? If so, does it change your expectation for this book? Either way, what are your expectations for this book?
I did read The Sun Down Motel two days ago. After reading this book, it has changed my expectations for The Book of Cold Cases. I feel that it will have much more of a supernatural aspect to it.
2. The MC writes about cold cases and is in her late 20s and divorced. I have read quite a few horror/thriller/mystery books recently where the MC is a recently divorced, usually a bit older, woman. Have you experienced this as well? Why do you think authors might make this choice? Why do you think the choice was made for this book?
I think that a lot of mysteries are older adults because they fit the needs of a plot. They have the life experience needed to solve the mystery. Or, particularly in cozy mysteries, the slightly older main character comes back to town and bumps into her ex which either causes friction or leads to renewed romance. I'm not sure why this author likes main characters in their 20s but I'm sure the end of the book will give some insight.
3. This section includes the start of the interview. Did it go the way you expected? Any one comment really stick out to you?
The interview didn’t proceed the way I expected. I was very surprised that the supernatural element chose to interact with Shea. I think it’s interesting that Shea revealed quite a bit of herself to Beth.
4. What do you think about the ghostly occurrences in this section? How do they add to the story (or maybe detract)?
I think the ghosts are upset that Beth is telling her story. I think it’s integral to the story so I’m not sure how it could detract.
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-195. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?.
I try to find a logical explanation for things first, but I definitely believe in ghosts, and this is an occasion when I probably would have labelled it as a paranormal occurrence.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
Maybe yes. They have the same interest they would click right away. But maybe they will be more into friends than lovers but we'll see
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
I think Mrs Greer was sent for another reason. And maybe the secretary misunderstood.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
It is definitely spooky! Who in their right mind would go back to that house after that paranormal experience
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
Thankfully haven't experience it first hand but yeah lots of spooky stories frim friends
DQs Day 1: Chap 1-11
1. Have you read the The Sun Down Motel by this author? If so, does it change your expectation for this book? Either way, what are your expectations for this book?
I own it but haven't read it yet. I know we aren't supposed to judge books based on the cover but I mostly wanted to read this book because of the title. I'm a big true crime fan, and I'm pretty interested in cold cases, so I loved the idea of a main character who was really into the subject.
2. The MC writes about cold cases and is in her late 20s and divorced. I have read quite a few horror/thriller/mystery books recently where the MC is a recently divorced, usually a bit older, woman. Have you experienced this as well? Why do you think authors might make this choice? Why do you think the choice was made for this book?
Hmm I'm not sure I've noticed that pattern myself, but it isn't my typical genre. Shea seems pretty focused on what being alone means for her personal safety so I think it's another way of unbalancing the main character.
3. This section includes the start of the interview. Did it go the way you expected? Any one comment really stick out to you?
The interview is going about how I'd expect. You can tell Shea isn't a professional, but I'm really interested in seeing where it goes. I'm really curious to learn more about Shea's backstory, almost more than I am to learn about Beth.
4. What do you think about the ghostly occurrences in this section? How do they add to the story (or maybe detract)?
Until I started the book I had no idea that ghosts would be involved, I thought it would be a typical mystery/thriller. I like fantasy and paranormal stories, but it did throw me off a little.
1. Have you read the The Sun Down Motel by this author? If so, does it change your expectation for this book? Either way, what are your expectations for this book?
I own it but haven't read it yet. I know we aren't supposed to judge books based on the cover but I mostly wanted to read this book because of the title. I'm a big true crime fan, and I'm pretty interested in cold cases, so I loved the idea of a main character who was really into the subject.
2. The MC writes about cold cases and is in her late 20s and divorced. I have read quite a few horror/thriller/mystery books recently where the MC is a recently divorced, usually a bit older, woman. Have you experienced this as well? Why do you think authors might make this choice? Why do you think the choice was made for this book?
Hmm I'm not sure I've noticed that pattern myself, but it isn't my typical genre. Shea seems pretty focused on what being alone means for her personal safety so I think it's another way of unbalancing the main character.
3. This section includes the start of the interview. Did it go the way you expected? Any one comment really stick out to you?
The interview is going about how I'd expect. You can tell Shea isn't a professional, but I'm really interested in seeing where it goes. I'm really curious to learn more about Shea's backstory, almost more than I am to learn about Beth.
4. What do you think about the ghostly occurrences in this section? How do they add to the story (or maybe detract)?
Until I started the book I had no idea that ghosts would be involved, I thought it would be a typical mystery/thriller. I like fantasy and paranormal stories, but it did throw me off a little.
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see comment historyDQs Day 4 - Chapters 30-38
15. In this section, we see Beth really open up in the interview and describe two different Christmas flashbacks. The first, when Beth was 14, Lily was bruised and had been clearly abused by her foster family. We also (at least according to Beth) see the beginnings of Lily as a serial killer. Do you feel any sympathy for Lily? Do you agree with Beth that Beth could have stopped her?
Okay, it seems I was a little off with the multiple personalities theme. But it's laying it on a bit thick with Lilly as the misunderstood and unwanted sibling. Hope there's a twist coming, it all seems pretty standard. And no I don't think Beth could have stopped her. She was a kid it wasn't her job.
16. What did you think of the interview with the lawyer Ransom Wells? Why do you think he and Beth never told the police about Lily, even after the murders?
No idea.. that's a bit of a plot hole for me and why I went with the multiple personalities theory. Why isn't anyone else in law enforcement finding out about Lily. It's the 1970's not the Dark Ages!
17. Beth gets a wonderful shopping trip with her mom that immediately gets ruined when they return home and Lily is there. Lily is clearly the favorite. Why do you think that is?
Mother guilt.
18. Can Shea trust Michael? He seems almost too good to be true.
You know the old adage.. If something's too good to be true, it probably is! Looking like Michael is fitting into this category.
DQs Day 2: Chap 12-19
5. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?
I'm not sure what logical explanation there could be. You know what Sherlock Holmes said "When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth. Something went wrong." Either there's something weird and supernatural going on or Beth is doing something to screw with Shea.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I think that would take away too much from the main story for them to get together, so if things go well I think it would end with their relationship up in the air a bit.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
I have a slight theory that the secretary misunderstood and Mrs. Greer was sent away for another reason. While mental health seems to be important in this book, for both Shea and Beth I can't help but think that between the mention of shame, her parents forcing her to get married, that Mrs. Greer was probably hidden away for another reason.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
Yeah I was very spooked. Eugh. No way in hell would I go back to the house after that.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
I have a life motto when it comes to ghosts: I don't believe in ghosts, but I also don't believe in messing with ghosts. So no Ouija boards, no seances and absolutely no haunted houses.
5. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?
I'm not sure what logical explanation there could be. You know what Sherlock Holmes said "When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth. Something went wrong." Either there's something weird and supernatural going on or Beth is doing something to screw with Shea.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I think that would take away too much from the main story for them to get together, so if things go well I think it would end with their relationship up in the air a bit.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
I have a slight theory that the secretary misunderstood and Mrs. Greer was sent away for another reason. While mental health seems to be important in this book, for both Shea and Beth I can't help but think that between the mention of shame, her parents forcing her to get married, that Mrs. Greer was probably hidden away for another reason.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
Yeah I was very spooked. Eugh. No way in hell would I go back to the house after that.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
I have a life motto when it comes to ghosts: I don't believe in ghosts, but I also don't believe in messing with ghosts. So no Ouija boards, no seances and absolutely no haunted houses.
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DQs Day 2: Chap 12-195. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?.
I would have assumed it was a practical joke.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I kinda hope they just stay friends. We need more platonic male/female relationships.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
Being mentally ill doesn't mean you are "crazy", nor does spending some time in a mental health facility. Maybe she was depressed and suicidal. We don't have enough information as of yet to say.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
I didn't find it particularly spooky. Animals are certainly portrayed that way in fiction, but in real life I do not think so since ghosts are not real. I would have no issue returning to the house.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
No.
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5. Shea is trying to explain the taps being turned on and the cupboards being opened by themselves through telekinesis. If you had experienced what she did, do you think you would have tried to explain things logically or do you think you would have believed it was ghosts and left it at that?
I don't think I would have thought either of those things. I think I would have thought it was a trick like Michael did. But Shea is intimidated by Beth and doesn't just ask what is going on.
6. After getting a cat, Shea calls on Michael to ask for advice on how to care for it, through the conversation she thinks about wanting to meet him. Do you think they will end up together or perhaps just remain as friends? Could Michael be interested as well?
I think they will meet and like each other. Whether it goes beyond that depends on how Shea changes throughout this book. She does take the first step at the end of this section.
7. Mr. Greer’s former secretary tells Shea Mrs. Greer wasn’t competent and that she was "sent away somewhere when she was eighteen". Do you think she was crazy or do you have any other theories?
Mental health is going to be a big issue in this story. A genetic line of insanity in Beth's family is being hinted at. Shea has mental issues stemming from her near abduction which she hasn't adjusted to. And finally there is the portrayal of the house being evil, as a supernatural element.
At this point a problem I see with the story is the convenience of all the characters to the original locale, 40 years later. Everyone needing to be interviewed never left the area or has died. What are the chances of a teen with mental issues being sent to an institution and that institution being several blocks down the road and nobody knowing about it or even that there was such an institution in town or that the secretary through 3 name changes still worked in town, is still angry about not being asked for her knowledge of the Greer marriage which she is eager to spill it and yet has never said anything to anyone. For me these are plot problems.
8. While listening to the recording of Beth’s interview Shea hears a voice in the background whispering “I am still here” and poor Winston gets spooked. Did you find this scary? Do you think cats/animals have a feel for the supernatural? If it were you, would you come back to the house after hearing that?
This brings the supernatural to the forefront, changing the plotting from character-driven to other-worldly, a different kind of story. Between what Shea experienced at the house and this I would stay away and Shea seems to feel the same since she has made no effort to contact Beth.
9. Finally, in order to get in the mood for more scary stuff. Have you or someone you know have any scary/ghostly experiences you might like to share?
None that anyone has told me about.