Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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Martin, George R.R. - A Game of Thrones (buddy read/1st in group series read) Start date June 9th 2011
Questions for Chapter 68 (Daenerys) - Chapter 72 (Daenerys)Oh, My Gah! Sooooo much happened at the end. Must get next book NOW!
1) You called it Lisa Kay there were repercussions from burning down the temple. Mirri Maz Duur was a witch to do that to Dany. Dany tried to help in the only way she could and Mirri Maz Duur took everything away. Did you expect her to kill Dany's baby? I kind of wondered if that was the life she was referring to when she said there had to be a blood sacrifice. I kept hoping he was still alive. That maybe she just took him like Rumplestilskin wanted the princess' baby. Dang!
2) What did you think of the dragons suckling off Dany and her being unscathed by the fire? Why do you think her brother wasn't immune to the fire?
3) They want Robb to be king. Did you see that one coming? I still mourn for Eddard. *sniff* I still like Jon more than Robb.
4) There appears to be no going back for Jon. He either stays at the wall or he dies. Anyone else disliking that? The way the Old Bear talked I thought there were times when they could leave.
5) Out of curiosity, those of you of the *cough* "weaker" *cough* sex like me, would you have sided with the peace that Catelyn proposed or are you of the "off with their heads" crew? Okay, I'm somewhere in between.
6) Tyrion finally is acknowledged by his father as his son. Jamie is being talked poorly of. The Lannister family secret (all of Cersei's children being Jamie's) has still yet to be revealed. Were any of these things surprising? How do you think Tyrion will act. What do you think of his thought of taking his whore (why do I always feel bad using that word?) with him? Do we know how old he is? I kept thinking it would be ironic if the "whore" turned out to be that long lost wife of his, but I don't think that would be possible. I'm guessing that happened a very long time ago and he'd recognize her.
7) Thoughts overall on the book? Will you continue with the next book? Anyone up for reading it soon? Any thoughts as to whether we should read the series (as it won as our next series read) like this buddy read - 4 chapters at a time?
8) A last minute add - Why have we not met Lord Stannis? I kept thinking we'd get to at least meet him in this book. He doesn't seem like he'd be that great of a King.
Lisa Kay said, "BTW, is there a way to link this "discussion" to this book that appears on this group's home page? Just a suggestion, as some of the other books have done so."I think I did what you were suggesting. Let me know if that is what you meant.
Lisarenee wrote: "I checked earlier and if you look in chapter 32 (Ayra), page 348 in my paperback, it describes Yoren coming to Eddard to ask for more men. He sees Ayra dressed as a boy and mistook her for one of his sons. It was when she warned her father about what the 2 men in the dungeon/secret passage had said. "Thank you, Lisarenee! Good to re-read that part.
Lisarenee wrote: "I think I did what you were suggesting. Let me know if that is what you meant."Perfect!
My Answers to Lisarenee’s Questions for Chapter 68 (Daenerys) - Chapter 72 (Daenerys) Lisarenee wrote: “Oh, My Gah! Sooooo much happened at the end. Must get next book NOW!
DITTO! Though, I already have it, so must start it NOW, LOL!
1) You called it Lisa Kay there were repercussions from burning down the temple. Mirri Maz Duur was a witch to do that to Dany. Dany tried to help in the only way she could and Mirri Maz Duur took everything away. Did you expect her to kill Dany's baby? I kind of wondering if that was the life she was referring to when she said there had to be a blood sacrifice. I kept hoping he was still alive. That maybe she just took him like Rumplestilskin wanted the princess' baby. Dang!
I did NOT have a good feeling when they burned down that temple. Mirri Maz Duur was a tiny bit of a surprise, but she was part of the reason I didn’t think burning the temple was great; her expression was so blank. I didn’t trust her, and yet I did b/c Dany did (stupid, I know). Ungrateful evil old witch. Nope, I thought Dany’s baby would survive, which I guess it did, if I getting this right and her baby somehow trans-switched-whatever with the dragon eggs. Right?
2) What did you think of the dragons suckling off Dany and her being unscathed by the fire? Why do you think her brother wasn't immune to the fire?
Whoa! That was a stunner. I was sure we were going to get a dragon or two, but I though Dany might herself transform into a dragon. I wasn’t expecting that! I kept wondering how HBO filmed the scene!
3) They want Robb to be king. Did you see that one coming? I still mourn for Eddard. *sniff* I still like Jon more than Robb.
Nope. Total surprise. Yes, Eddard was a beloved character in my heart. It sent me into a bit of a depression and I swore I wasn’t going to pick up this book again. Yes, I too like Jon Snow more than Robb.
4) There appears to be no going back for Jon. He either stays at the wall or he dies. Anyone else disliking that? The way the Old Bear talked I thought there were times when they could leave.
Jon’s leaving surprised me. I thought he would leave about a third of the way back in the book. I was also surprised about his “brothers” coming for him. I was kind of thinking maybe he’d run into his uncle. Otherwise, what was Ghost doing in the woods? I do want Jon to eventually leave the Wall and have a wife and family. But he is needed there now. Good gravy bean, Lisarenee, there are Zombies on the other side of the Wall! Who better to be there to fight them? Still, I think he can go for a “visit”, right?
5) Out of curiosity, those of you of the *cough* "weaker" *cough* sex like me, would you have sided with the peace that Catelyn proposed or are you of the "off with their heads" crew? Okay, I'm somewhere in between.
Ditto, I am somewhere in between.
6) ⓐTyrion finally is acknowledged by his father as his son. ⓑJamie is being talked poorly of. ⓒThe Lannister family secret (all of Cersei's children being Jamie's) has still yet to be revealed. ⓓWere any of these things surprising? ⓔ How do you think Tyrion will act. ⓕWhat do you think of his thought of taking his whore (why do I always feel bad using that word?) with him? ⓖDo we know how old he is? ⓗI kept thinking it would be ironic if the "whore" turned out to be that long lost wife of his, but I don't think that would be possible. ⓘI'm guessing that happened a very long time ago and he'd recognize her.
ⓐ Yeah, his sire is a pr!ck, knew that a long time ago. I wonder what disgusts Tyrion more, that his father finally sees him as good enough, or that his father believes Jaime dead.
ⓑ That is disgusting, now that he is “gone” (not that I think he is), to so easily dismiss someone and their accomplishments you once lauded. Has a “behind-the-back” feel to it all.
ⓒ I know !! I thought for sure that would come to light. Interesting that they decided on the King of the North w/o knowing this vital info.
ⓓ Yeah, all of them surprised me.
ⓔ I think Tyrion will continue in the same vein, using his intelligence, wit and brutal honest to fight his battles. However, I don’t think he can keep
ⓕ I hope he takes Shae with him, just on principle. Maybe his father would have apoplexy then.
ⓖ I don’t. In his twenties, maybe?
ⓗ Now that you mention it... here is an ugly, twisted thought: maybe she’s his daughter?
ⓘ Probably.
ⓙ You forgot the question: Who killed Jon Arryn? I still think the Nut Bunny did it, but I wanted confirmation.
7) Thoughts overall on the book? Will you continue with the next book? Anyone up for reading it soon? Any thoughts as to whether we should read the series (as it won as our next series read) like this buddy read - 4 chapters at a time?
Here is My GoodReads Review of AGOT. (Not a synopsis of the book.) I definitely will continue with the next book; I am even tempted to pick it up today! But it is too all-consuming. I need to attend to my life a bit first. I will join the next “buddy read” -- if I can (things are still up in the air). 4 chapters/day sounds good to me. Are we starting July 1st?
8) A last minute add - Why have we not met Lord Stannis? I kept thinking we'd get to at least meet him in this book. He doesn't seem like he'd be that great of a King.
Beats the poop out of me. I still think he is in contention, just from the title of the next book.
Lisa Kay saidn, "I was sure we were going to get a dragon or two, but I though Dany might herself transform into a dragon.Me too! I was totally shocked!
Lisa Kay - great question about the next being on the 1st July! I'd love to know. Currently just over half way through this book, so haven't read many of the comments here (don't want to spoil it). But I've had a browse through this thread and think I have an idea of how these "buddy reads" work - first time actually trying to take part in an online reading community.Part of me is wondering if it really is this simple! lol
Thanks! :)
Finished last night!!!Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 52 (Jon) - Chapter 55 (Catelyn)
1. Did anyone expect the dead men to come back to life? I did. Does that mean I've seen too many horror movies?
I did not expect zombies in this book, at all!
2. What did you think the hand going down the throat was looking for - soul or heart? CREEPY!
Very creepy...I didn't think it was looking for anything, just trying to kill...but now that you mention it, yeah, it could definitely have been looking for heart and/or soul.
4. Did they say if anyone besides Jon survived? There was another zombie that he didn't deal with. Wonder what happened to him...but do I really want to know???????
The other zombie killed several people, right? But then was it killed?? I don't remember...
3. Was anyone surprised that so much time had passed? I didn't think it'd been a full year.
Yes, that was surprising. I didn't feel like the passage of time was marked very obviously. The seasons aren't what we're used to, so that really couldn't have been a clue.
4. Anyone else thinking Catelyn is a bad mom? Why is she not going home to her two youngest kids? I understand her brother's in trouble and her father is dying, but she has kids. I can't fathom being away from my kids that long.
The mom in me says, yes, she's a bad mom. However, taking the context of the story and the time period, it was not uncommon for high-born women to be apart from their children. The child-rearing was left to servants and tutors. Many times in the book, the characters mention how the young boys go live with other families.
5. Interesting that Rob's first reaction to Sansa's letter was "What's wrong with that girl." and not "They must have forced her to write this." What do you think?
Robb is young. He's still learning.
6. Bran's statement about Sansa loosing her Wolf makes me wonder how close those wolves are tied to the children. Seems like there could be another story just about that.
Yes, there definitely seems to be a supernatural connection between the direwolves and the Stark children.
7. Speaking of Bran, I feel so bad he can't be healed. I kept hoping he could. He's struggling so much with what he can do and what he would have been able to do. Any thoughts?
I'm glad that Bran isn't just laying in bed feeling sorry for himself. He could very well just give up on trying to live a full life. It's a testament to his resilience.
8. Looks like raising the banners was a good choice on Robb's part. I still don't like him going to war.
Me too! He is a teenager, for goodness' sake! I suppose kids need to grow up very quickly in this world.
9. So there is a dilemma is getting the father more important than trying to defeat the Others. Which do you think they should have done first?
Seems to me that getting the father is the more pressing matter, but beating the Others is more desirable for the long-term, and it affects the entire realm.
10. Dany and her husband were almost poisoned. Did you think it odd that Ser Jorah thought the wine was tainted? Could he have set it up to persuade Kahl Drago to wage war on the Seven Kingdoms?
I don't think it's odd because Ser Jorah knows that Robert will always try to ensure the succession of his heirs. Hmmmm, that's an interesting question. Yes, he could have set it up, but I don't think he didn't based upon the conversations at King's Landing about killing the girl and her baby.
11. Do you think that Dany and the Starks might become allies?
Yes, this definitely could happen.
Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 56 (Tyrion) - Chapter 59 (Catelyn)1. We now know that the mantra of the Lannisters is "Hear Me Roar." What is your opinion of it? I think it is not all that inventive or great.
I think it is narcissistic. I agree that's it's not inventive.
2. Tyrion is finally back home. What did you think of the interaction between him and his father? I'm not feeling the love.
Nope, not a lot of love there. I think Tywin has always treated Tyrion badly due to his affliction. It's amazing how Tyrion has kept his sense of humor.
3. Anyone wondering how Tyrion's newly formed motley crew will effect the games (game of thrones that is), or do you think Tyrion's father will kill them? Could insisting that Tyrion was theirs until they were compensated lead to their downfall?
I thought that they would be an asset to Team Lannister. I got the feeling that Twyin wouldn't care too much if Tyrion was killed.
4. Bronn saved Tyrion's butt, but it sounded like Tyrion didn't have a high regard for him. He brought up the fact he'd changed sides. Anyone surprised by this?
Hmmmm...I didn't get that feeling. I got the sense that Tyrion admired Bronn for crossing over.
5. Sansa. What can I say? Anyone else like to smack some sense into her? Anyone else surprised she is still considered engaged to the young King? Do you think he likes her? I was a little confused by it until I read Eddard's chapter.
I keep forgetting Sansa is a child of 11! She needs guidance and has none. The engagement is surprising. You would think that the Lannisters would want nothing to do with the child of a "traitor."
6. I must confess, I was a little afraid to read chapter 58. I didn't see any other Eddard chapters. I feared our relationship with him had come to an end. Anyone else relieved it wasn't? Do you think he'll cave in because of Sansa?
VERY relieved. (When I was watching the show, I couldn't sleep because I was worried about Ned. How sad is that?) I think Ned would do anything to save his family.
7. So as I and I believe a few others of you suspected, Catelyn didn't fully believe herself a Stark. I'd think that after 5 children and several more years of being married to her husband she'd have felt she was a Stark. Anyone else think she really had a problem with her husband's infidelity? Could that be the reason?
This is interesting. I didn't get the impression that Catelyn didn't believe herself to be a Stark. But, if that's the case, I don't think it's tied to Ned's infidelity. I think it would be her ties and loyalty to the Tullys.
8. What did you think of the agreement Catelyn reached with Lord Frey? That was an awful lot to ask for passage.
I thought it was funny. It was a lot to ask, but it did put the Starks in position to defeat Jaime, so well worth it! I can't wait to see Arya's reaction to her brothal!
Lisa Kay's Questions for Chapter 60 (Jon) – Chapter 63 (Catelyn)1) Uncle Benjen is still missing; what are the odds that he’s going to come back as a Zombie Leader and fight Jon Snow? Or am I totally barking up the wrong tree here?
I think that could very well happen. I hope not, thought. I hope that Uncle B is out there fighting to survive.
2) Something more than WOW! for the end of Chapter 60? Was it the biggest surprise of the story for you? If not, state your biggest surprise thus far.
OK...I don't have my book with and I don't remember what happened! (I'll look at previous answers and come back to this...)
3) Let us say, for the purpose of this question, our suspicions about Jon Snow being the love child of Rhaegar and Lyanna are correct (of course, if they married, then he’s a Prince, right?). Question: Having read the Old Bear’s reveal, what do you make of him gifting Jon with Longclaw?
But, he was burned, so does this mean he can't be the Blood of the Dragon?
4) Daenerys has no stomach for rape or slavery. When Ser Jorah tells Dany she is like her oldest brother, Rhaegar, we get a completely different picture of him. Comments on either of these statements?
I thought it was something else she said that made him compare her to Rhaegar...can't remember what it was though.
5) First impressions on Mirri Maz Duur? Do you think there will be consequences to their burning the temple?
First impression was that she would become an ally to Dany.
6) What do you think of Lord Tywin placing Tyrion and his wild “motley crew” in the vanguard? Do you believe Tyrion knows exactly what his father is doing? Do you think that there are limits on what a person can forgive?
I thought Tywin wanted them to fight and die. Yes, there are limits of forgiveness, definitely.
7) Was Tyrion’s defeat of the knight intelligence or luck? Were these battle scenes either too long or too graphic for you or where you too caught up in the telling to notice?
I didn't think they were too long or graphic. I think it took great presence of mind for Tyrion to impale the horse with his helmet. Tyrion is brave and intelligent.
8) Were you impressed that Lord Robb Stark was more cautious than Lord Tywin expected?
Yes.
9) What are the Starks are going to do with Jaime? Surely not let this Lannister brother go as easily as the first.
I hope they behead him.
10) Any change from your initial impression of Theon Greyjoy? Quote: “And Lord Tywin?” Catelyn interrupted. “Have you perchance taken Lord Tywin, Theon?” Catelyn asks an eloquent question of him. How is his arrogance different from Jamie’s?
I think Jaime has backed up his smack-talk. He is a Kingslayer, after all. Theon is still green.
Questions for Chapter 64 (Daenerys) – Chapter 67 (Sansa)1. Wow! So much going on. Do you think Daenerys' husband will survive and if so will he still be human? This whole blood magic sounds a little scary. I can't believe so much could happen in one Chapter.
I didn't think he would survive, since other characters commented he would be dead soon. It didn't occur to me he could survive and be non-human (or comatose). The blood magic was scary. I was sad when the maiegi killed the horse.
2. Eddard did die after securing his daughter's place. I frankly, wouldn't have believed they would have kept her safe. I figured once he was gone she would be exterminated (Sorry Doctor Who going on in the background). What did you think? Surprised she's still engaged? (I sound like a broken record, huh?)
Yep, still surprised! Very surprised they (well, really Joffrey) killed Eddard.
3. Sansa finally gets it, and you called it Lisa Kay, she's getting smacked around. Anyone surprised? Apparently Joffrey sees heads as appropriate tokens of affection - how romantic NOT!
I loved it when Sansa told Joffrey that her brother would bring her Joffrey's head! Best line in the book. I am not sure why Joffrey would still want to marry Sansa, knowing she despises him now.
4. Has anyone taken notice of all the Sigils being presented? There are unicorns, bears, fish, lions, deer, wolves, golden roses, Falcons, dragons, kraken, etc Which would you want for your Sigil? Which is the least appealing? Which would you like to see come to life in the book? I hope this mean more of the sigils will come to life in the book. I want to see kraken and unicorns.
I'm not too crazy about the fish symbol. It would be cool to have wolf or dragon.
5. Okay not that I've taken a slight road trip I'll get back on track. Ayra has been surviving on the streets around the castle. Do you think Yoren from the wall will harm her? He seemed a little rough with her.
He saved her by cutting her hair. I think he does not have bad intentions toward her.
6. Anyone else think they'd find something on Jon's parentage in the family crypts? Were we totally wrong?
No, I didn't think this since the parentage is a closely guarded secret that I hope didn't die with Ned.
7. Osha looks like she may play a more key role than I previously would have thought. Anyone else surprised?
I like how she is playing the big sister role to Bran. Yes, it is surprising given how we first met her.
Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 68 (Daenerys) - Chapter 72 (Daenerys) LAST SET OF QUESTIONSOh, My Gah! Sooooo much happened at the end. Must get next book NOW!
I WANT TO READ THE NEXT BOOK TOO!
1) You called it Lisa Kay there were repercussions from burning down the temple. Mirri Maz Duur was a witch to do that to Dany. Dany tried to help in the only way she could and Mirri Maz Duur took everything away. Did you expect her to kill Dany's baby? I kind of wondered if that was the life she was referring to when she said there had to be a blood sacrifice. I kept hoping he was still alive. That maybe she just took him like Rumplestilskin wanted the princess' baby. Dang!
OK, I have a theory about this (I haven't read anyone else's answers, so maybe I'm not alone in my thinking): The baby was born perfectly healthy. Ser Jorah found a wet nurse and took her and the baby far away into hiding. The baby will play a big role later in the story. (Hey, it could happen!) :-)
When Mazzi said there must be a sacrifice, I did think she was talking about the baby, and it seemed to me that Dany agreed to trade baby's life for Drogo's.
2) What did you think of the dragons suckling off Dany and her being unscathed by the fire? Why do you think her brother wasn't immune to the fire?
This scene was amazing! Now we are really into fantasy territory. Can't wait to see what Dany does with her 3 new weapons. As for her brother not being immune, maybe one needs purity of heart? Great mystery!
3) They want Robb to be king. Did you see that one coming? I still mourn for Eddard. *sniff* I still like Jon more than Robb.
Didn't see that coming. He is so young! I like Jon more, too.
4) There appears to be no going back for Jon. He either stays at the wall or he dies. Anyone else disliking that? The way the Old Bear talked I thought there were times when they could leave.
There are times they can leave, but maybe only for recruiting purposes? (I am thinking of Benjen and Yoren.)
5) Out of curiosity, those of you of the *cough* "weaker" *cough* sex like me, would you have sided with the peace that Catelyn proposed or are you of the "off with their heads" crew? Okay, I'm somewhere in between.
I am with the latter. The Lannisters are not to be trusted. They could make peace, but still stab them (Starks & allies) in the back. How can there be peace with all that suspicion?
6) Tyrion finally is acknowledged by his father as his son. Jamie is being talked poorly of. The Lannister family secret (all of Cersei's children being Jamie's) has still yet to be revealed. Were any of these things surprising? How do you think Tyrion will act. What do you think of his thought of taking his whore (why do I always feel bad using that word?) with him? Do we know how old he is? I kept thinking it would be ironic if the "whore" turned out to be that long lost wife of his, but I don't think that would be possible. I'm guessing that happened a very long time ago and he'd recognize her.
I think Tyrion is in his 30s. I hope he takes Shae with him. She's kind to him and they make each other laugh. (yes, she gets paid for those things, but...)
I was surprised Tywin wants Tyrion to be Hand. I am wondering how Tyrion will break the news to Cersei.
7) Thoughts overall on the book? Will you continue with the next book? Anyone up for reading it soon? Any thoughts as to whether we should read the series (as it won as our next series read) like this buddy read - 4 chapters at a time?
I REALLY want to read the next book. 4 chapters at a time works for me, even though I got behind!
8) A last minute add - Why have we not met Lord Stannis? I kept thinking we'd get to at least meet him in this book. He doesn't seem like he'd be that great of a King.
I don't know why we haven't met him yet. I'm hoping he will be a great character.
Thank you everyone who posted discussion questions!
Response to Lisa Kay's post 406:I wasn’t expecting that! I kept wondering how HBO filmed the scene!
The dragons were CGI and looked very cool! The scene of Dany walking into the fire was stunning. She kept her hair in the show!
I hope he takes Shae with him, just on principle. Maybe his father would have apoplexy then.
Ditto!
Just an aside about Joffrey, I can't stand the little pr-ck either, but to play devil's advocate...he has no idea that he's not the real heir. As far as he's concerned, he's the heir and Eddard tried to deny it, which is treason. True, he could have shown mercy, but maybe, just maybe, it was the "right" thing for him to do as "King" so that others won't be so quick to commit treason. (Now, making Sansa look at Ned's head was a pretty crappy thing to do and there's no excuse for that!)
Michelle wrote: "But I've had a browse through this thread and think I have an idea of how these "buddy reads" work - first time actually trying to take part in an online reading community.Part of me is wondering if it really is this simple! lol ..."
It is pretty simple, Michelle! I look forward to your comments in A Clash of Kings!
My Responses to post #409, Sandy's Answers to Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 52 (Jon) - Chapter 55 (Catelyn)#3) You are right, seasonal changes help one notice the passing of time.
#4) Good point about the high-born women not attending to their children; however, why was she so admit about sticking to Bran’s sick bed… then she just leaves? I thought this was aberrant behavior for her.
#9) Yes, they are between a rock and a hard place – and they don’t even know it yet!
#11) You do?! Oh, goodie! **stands to do happy dance**
My Responses to post #410, Sandy's Answers to Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 56 (Tyrion) - Chapter 59 (Catelyn)#2) I was checking on-line at the HBO site and Tyrion is the favorite character of the show, followed closely by Jon Snow, then Ayra and Dany (who are almost tied). Interesting b/c in the book world, I believe Dany is leading.
#6) I must admit that Ned was my favorite character. Very upsetting and, if Martin wanted to push my button, he succeeded! I’ve said it b/f, but I was stunned he caved.
#8) I thought it was funny too. Maybe we both just have a twisted sense of humor? OMG, I forgot to consider Arya’s reaction, LOL!
Lisa Kay wrote: "My Responses to post #409, Sandy's Answers to Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 52 (Jon) - Chapter 55 (Catelyn)#3) You are right, seasonal changes help one notice the passing of time.
#4) Good..."however, why was she so admit about sticking to Bran’s sick bed… then she just leaves? I thought this was aberrant behavior for her.
Hmmm, you're right, she didn't want to leave Bran when he was comatose, until she thought she knew who the culprit was and decided to leave to tell/warn Ned. I suppose...she heard that Bran was awake and didn't feel the need to return? Just goes to show that all of the characters are conflicted. That's good...it gets us talking!
#8) I thought it was funny too. Maybe we both just have a twisted sense of humor? OMG, I forgot to consider Arya’s reaction, LOL!
There is a lot of humor in this book. I think that's part of its appeal. There were terrible things happening, yet I often find myself laughing. Hmm, maybe my sense of humor IS twisted! :-)
My Responses to post #411, Sandy's Answers to Lisa Kay's Questions for Chapter 60 (Jon) – Chapter 63 (Catelyn)#2) Did you look it up? You just have to read the last two pages.
#3) Humm… excellent observation. I hadn’t thought of that. But, maybe he would have been burned worse?
#4) Page 668 in my book. I think you are right about her also being compared to Rhaegar elsewhere. I can’t remember which chapter though.
#5) Ditto! I was about 90% sure she would. **sigh**
#7) It was one of the longest chapters in the book, and yet I zipped right through it.
#9) Whoa! Okay!
#10) Ahh… so you still respect him. Interesting.
My Responses to post #412, Sandy's Answers to Lisarenee’s Questions for Chapter 64 (Daenerys) – Chapter 67 (Sansa)#1) I was sad about the horse too; I love animals.
#2) You know, I have been racking my poor beleaguered brain ever since Lisarenee went over the Sigils. King
#3) He’s sadistic, that’s why he wants to marry her. Plus, I doubt if he will.
#5) I don’t think he cut her hair in the book yet. I’ve heard that they blend a little of the next book in with this one for the HBO series to avoid flashback.
#6) Die with NED! Good gravy beans, I hope not! Martin wouldn’t be that cruel would he? Never mind; he would.
Sandy wrote: "Hmm, maybe my sense of humor IS twisted! :-)"I right there with you. :-)
My Responses to post #413, Sandy's Answers to Lisarenee's Questions for Chapter 68 (Daenerys) - Chapter 72 (Daenerys) LAST SET OF QUESTIONS#1) A baby spirited away? So it can mount the world later. Humm… I won’t discount it, LOL! Only b/c I did question where the baby’s body was when Khal Drogo was burned. I would have thought that the corpse of the baby would have been put in the fire with him… therefore becoming one of the dragons. So it did make me wonder, Sandy.
#2) Purity of heart? Good point. Or love?
#6) I don’t think Cersei is going to take it well at all!
#2) Did you look it up? You just have to read the last two pages.No! I didn't. Is it the part about Aemon being a Targaryen?
#3) Humm… excellent observation. I hadn’t thought of that. But, maybe he would have been burned worse?
This is a mystery that I hope will be revealed soon, but probably not until book 4 or 5! (I don't know!) Viserys was a Targaryen, yet fire (or really hot gold) killed him. Dany is truly a bad-a$$.
9) Whoa! Okay!
I know stragetically that's not the answer...but I do hope Jaime and Cersei are punished for the pain they have caused.
#10) Ahh… so you still respect him. Interesting.
No, no, no!!! I do not respect him. He tried to kill Bran. :-( He has babies with his twin sister (ick). He is despicable, in my opinion.
I was just referring to the arrogance factor when compared to Theon. I probably didn't word it correctly.
I've not read the books (I've watched the TV series) but I'm following this thread religiously.So far everything in the show is pretty much right on with the books.
One question I have, not sure if you guys brought it up or not.
(view spoiler)
The scene with Dany and Ser Jorah, before she stepped in the fire, almost broke my heart. They did that scene really well. When she stepped into the ring her dress caught on fire and you can see it burning and just the calm over her face...
I have a HUGE soft spot for Ser Jorah.
#2) You know, I have been racking my poor beleaguered brain ever since Lisarenee went over the Sigils. King Piss Ant Joffrey wears the lion a lot, though alongside the stag. Plus, he is not really a stag. So, taking into consideration the dead direwolf at the beginning of the book, does that mean that a Baratheon killed Lord Stark? If you don’t count it as King Robert, then it has to be one of his brothers, right? All a big conspiracy, if you ask me.
Since Joffrey is a Lannister, and he commanded that Ned be beheaded, then the "Lion" killed the "Wolf"...so maybe the direwolf at the beginning of the book was killed by a lion.
#5) I don’t think he cut her hair in the book yet. I’ve heard that they blend a little of the next book in with this one for the HBO series to avoid flashback.
Oh...ok. It said she felt her hair being pulled from her skull (or something to that effect), and I inferred she was getting her hair cut because that's what happened in the show.
#6) Die with NED! Good gravy beans, I hope not! Martin wouldn’t be that cruel would he? Never mind; he would.
Someone else must know the secret,right? Maybe Aemon or Lord Mormont (old bear). Stay tuned, folks!
#1) A baby spirited away? So it can mount the world la..."It bothered me they didn't show her looking at the child or really anything about the child other then it died. There has got to be a reason for this....
Kellyflower wrote: "I've not read the books (I've watched the TV series) but I'm following this thread religiously.So far everything in the show is pretty much right on with the books.
One question I have, not sure i..."
(view spoiler).
I agree that scene was extremely well done. I have watched it over and over. I am a nerd. :-) I am hoping Dany and Ser Jorah get together.
Sandy wrote: " I am hoping Dany and Ser Jorah get together..."He's probably gonna end up dying because we like him so much. and just to make it worse Dany will probably be the one to end his life..and just to make it heart wrenching it will probably be on accident.
It just feels like that's how the series goes = )
Kellyflower wrote: It bothered me they didn't show her looking at the child or really anything about the child other then it died. There has got to be a reason for this.... "Could be. In the book, however, she was out of it for day(s), so she couldn't see the baby.
I'm waiting for my boxed set to come from Amazon. Would anyone object to starting the next book of the series after the 4th of July?
Lisarenee wrote: "I'm waiting for my boxed set to come from Amazon. Would anyone object to starting the next book of the series after the 4th of July?"No objection! I will be on a road trip July 1 - 7. Hoping to read in the car, but I probably won't be in synch with you guys until later.
Lisa Kay wrote: "Kellyflower wrote: It bothered me they didn't show her looking at the child or really anything about the child other then it died. There has got to be a reason for this.... "Could be. In the boo..."
Another reason I think (hope) the baby is in a safe house.
Lisarenee wrote: "I'm waiting for my boxed set to come from Amazon. Would anyone object to starting the next book of the series after the 4th of July?"So, July 5th? Sounds good to me. :o)
Okay. It'll give me time to divide the chapters again like I did last time.
Kellyflower wrote: "[spoilers removed]"Sorry, Kellyflower... I was talking about the Lannisters in that second sentence not the Targaryens...
Kellyflower wrote: "...little creep..."Ditto times 100!
Kellyflower, to clarify. I knew about the Targaryens when I posted #433, so I was talking about past Lannisters.
Lisarenee wrote: "Okay. It'll give me time to divide the chapters again like I did last time."Thanks, Lisarenee!
Lisa Kay wrote: "Kellyflower, to clarify. I knew about the Targaryens when I posted #433, so I was talking about past Lannisters."I knew what ya meant
Okay, so I was totally absent but I finished the book last night. And I'm still digesting it. Good thing I bought all the four books at one go. I will definitely join the next group read and I promise (to try) to keep up with the pace.
Back from Ohio with the kids. I'm beat! I probably won't have time to finish this book until Tues darnitall!! Hope to get the kitchen painted before TSO (The Studly One) has to return to work on Tues afternoon. Sorry to bail on the last part of the book and questions, but life got in the way. I hate that! I will finish and answer questions though and I'm planning to buy the next book in the series. I haven't read any posts so I wouldn't be influenced, but if a Buddy Read is being set up/has been set up for the next book please send me an email. I'd really appreciate it! :)
He enjoys it, too. LOL We didn't get the kitchen painted. *sigh* We did get some outside work completed though.Questions for Chapter 48 (Jon) - Chapter 51 (Sansa)
1) Did you expect Jon to keep his role in Samwell’s assignment a secret?
Yes. He’s not one to toot his own horn.
2) Do you think Samwell’s taking his vows with Jon before the heart tree will strengthen their friendship?
Yes.
3) If the reason behind Mormont assigning him to the stewards, why was Ser Alliser smiling?
He wasn’t smiling, he was just watching him.
4) Do you feel Lord Stark should have said something about Prince Joffrey’s paternity when he called the small council together?
Yes. Not that it would’ve mattered. He was surrounded by vipers and should’ve fled when he had the chance. Too honorable makes him a dead man. Fat lot of good honor does him dead.
5) Ohhhhh…Litterfinger is truly a viperous snake! Did this surprise you? What are your thoughts about Janos Slynt? Will there be repercussions for Ser Barristan, the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, for his slight hesitation?
Didn’t surprise me a bit. The whole situation ticks me off. Eddard was acting like a stupid man and he didn’t strike me as stupid. What was up with that?
6) Did Arya learn enough from Syrio to survive and make it back to Winterfell? Will she be reunited with her direwolf on the way home?
I hope she did and I hope so.
7) Sansa! Will she ever get a clue? Can you see her parroting reflected in what other courtiers say in from of Queen Cersei? Where you as appalled as I was that she had revealed their planned departure to Queen Cersei?
Nope, not surprised. Sansa is a little twit. Worthless.
June 22 Questions for Chapter 52 (Jon) - Chapter 55 (Catelyn) 1. Did anyone expect the dead men to come back to life? I did. Does that mean I've seen too many horror movies?
I expected it since it was foreshadowed in the prologue. Plus, I don’t think the whisper to burn them came from any of the men. It came from someone…Other, maybe? Benjen? Hmmm…
2. What did you think the hand going down the throat was looking for - soul or heart? CREEPY!
Soul.
4. Did they say if anyone besides Jon survived? There was another zombie that he didn't deal with. Wonder what happened to him...but do I really want to know???????
I wondered about the other dude. No mention is made though it can’t be good.
3. Was anyone surprised that so much time had passed? I didn't think it'd been a full year.
I thought it was mentioned that Benjen had been missing 6 months.
4. Anyone else thinking Catelyn is a bad mom? Why is she not going home to her two youngest kids? I understand her brother's in trouble and her father is dying, but she has kids. I can't fathom being away from my kids that long.
I don’t get it either. Robb isn’t even 16 and she left him to run Winterfell with a war brewing.
5. Interesting that Rob's first reaction to Sansa's letter was "What's wrong with that girl." and not "They must have forced her to write this." What do you think?
Because he knows his sister is a first class twit.
6. Bran's statement about Sansa loosing her Wolf makes me wonder how close those wolves are tied to the children. Seems like there could be another story just about that.
It’s interesting.
7. Speaking of Bran, I feel so bad he can't be healed. I kept hoping he could. He's struggling so much with what he can do and what he would have been able to do. Any thoughts?
Struggling in life either makes one stronger or breaks them. I don’t want Bran healed. I want him to become strong in his own right.
8. Looks like raising the banners was a good choice on Robb's part. I still don't like him going to war.
Interesting that Osha said he should be marching North. Hard to choose considering she’s probably right.
9. So there is a dilemma is getting the father more important than trying to defeat the Others. Which do you think they should have done first?
I think marching North would’ve been a hard sell to the other Lords.
10. Dany and her husband were almost poisoned. Did you think it odd that Ser Jorah thought the wine was tainted? Could he have set it up to persuade Kahl Drago to wage war on the Seven Kingdoms?
No. I think he knows more than what he’s saying, but it could’ve just been instinct/paranoia on learning that Dany’s life has a bounty on it.
11. Do you think that Dany and the Starks might become allies?
No. She trusts Jorah and he hates the Starks.
Carol said, "I don’t think the whisper to burn them came from any of the men. It came from someone…Other, maybe? Benjen? Hmmm…"So you think we'll see Benjen again?
I wonder if there's more to Jorah's story than we know about his hating the Starks?
I'm unsure at this moment. I don't think any of the men staring at the bodies whispered, 'Burn them." though. Something else said it and then it was maybe echoed by one of the rangers. Jorah is the one who ran from Eddard for selling poachers. He blames Eddard for being exiled.
Questions for Chapter 56 (Tyrion) - Chapter 59 (Catelyn)1. We now know that the mantra of the Lannisters is "Hear Me Roar." What is your opinion of it? I think it is not all that inventive or great.
It tells me they are all puffed up on themselves. It’s also very cliché since they’re banner contains a lion.
2. Tyrion is finally back home. What did you think of the interaction between him and his father? I'm not feeling the love.
His father is a cold proud bastard and it must chap his buttocks to have fathered an imp.
3. Anyone wondering how Tyrion's newly formed motley crew will effect the games (game of thrones that is), or do you think Tyrion's father will kill them? Could insisting that Tyrion was theirs until they were compensated lead to their downfall?
Not sure how this part will play out.
4. Bronn saved Tyrion's butt, but it sounded like Tyrion didn't have a high regard for him. He brought up the fact he'd changed sides. Anyone surprised by this?
No. Tyrion likes to state the facts when it suits his purpose.
5. Sansa. What can I say? Anyone else like to smack some sense into her? Anyone else surprised she is still considered engaged to the young King? Do you think he likes her? I was a little confused by it until I read Eddard's chapter.
No, yes, yes, no. She’s worthless and, as I’ve said numerous times, a twit.
6. I must confess, I was a little afraid to read chapter 58. I didn't see any other Eddard chapters. I feared our relationship with him had come to an end. Anyone else relieved it wasn't? Do you think he'll cave in because of Sansa?
I believe it’s only a matter of time before Eddard is dead. It’ll be a miracle if he’s not killed.
7. So as I and I believe a few others of you suspected, Catelyn didn't fully believe herself a Stark. I'd think that after 5 children and several more years of being married to her husband she'd have felt she was a Stark. Anyone else think she really had a problem with her husband's infidelity? Could that be the reason?
I think might be part of the problem, but the biggest reason I think is that she grew up very differently and has a hard time associating herself with the Stark fortitude.
8. What did you think of the agreement Catelyn reached with Lord Frey? That was an awful lot to ask for passage.
It could’ve been worse. However, I don’t trust that slimy bastard one bit. He’s only out for Numero Uno.
Questions for Chapter 60 (Jon) – Chapter 63 (Catelyn)1) Uncle Benjen is still missing; what are the odds that he’s going to come back as a Zombie Leader and fight Jon Snow? Or am I totally barking up the wrong tree here?
I’m not sure what’s going on with Benjen or the Others. I need more info, but Benjen is a Stark, so if anyone can come back as an undead leader it would be him. It would be nice if he came to man the Wall though.
2) Something more than WOW! for the end of Chapter 60? Was it the biggest surprise of the story for you? If not, state your biggest surprise thus far.
That chapter had 2 wows, the sword and the reveal. I’m not sure which was a bigger surprise, Aemon’s reveal, Robert’s death by boar, Eddard being branded a traitor or Drogo treating his wife well.
3) Let us say, for the purpose of this question, our suspicions about Jon Snow being the love child of Rhaegar and Lyanna are correct (of course, if they married, then he’s a Prince, right?). Question: Having read the Old Bear’s reveal, what do you make of him gifting Jon with Longclaw?
I’m not sure it had any meaning except to the Old Bear. He had no one to give it to, so he felt it was fitting to give it to the man who saved him. I can’t wait to see if Jorah finds out who his father gave Longclaw to. Hehehe Jorah hates the Starks and now his father’s sword belongs to a Stark bastard (though I believe he is not Eddard’s son).
4) Daenerys has no stomach for rape or slavery. When Ser Jorah tells Dany she is like her oldest brother, Rhaegar, we get a completely different picture of him. Comments on either of these statements?
Seems to me that Rhaegar would’ve been a good King.
5) First impressions on Mirri Maz Duur? Do you think there will be consequences to their burning the temple?
I don’t think I like her. She fits in too neatly just when she’s needed. I’ll just have to wait and see.
6) What do you think of Lord Tywin placing Tyrion and his wild “motley crew” in the vanguard? Do you believe Tyrion knows exactly what his father is doing? Do you think that there are limits on what a person can forgive?
Typical behavior. I can’t stand Tywin. I hope he and Jaime die leaving Tyrion the head of House Lannister.
7) Was Tyrion’s defeat of the knight intelligence or luck? Were these battle scenes either too long or too graphic for you or where you too caught up in the telling to notice?
I think it was more luck than anything. I can’t imagine what it was like to battle hand-to-hand like that. Those scenes are always hard to read because there is just too much going on. Even watching a movie is hard. You can’t just concentrate on what’s happening immediately around you, you have to look further out to be aware of what’s next as well. I’m glad I don’t live in those times.
8) Were you impressed that Lord Robb Stark was more cautious than Lord Tywin expected?
Oh, yes. I like that he outsmarted that jerk. Go, Robb!!
9) What are the Starks are going to do with Jaime? Surely not let this Lannister brother go as easily as the first.
They should’ve just killed him. Honor is one thing, stupidity is another. I hope they can capitalize on having him as a hostage otherwise it was all for nothing.
10) Any change from your initial impression of Theon Greyjoy? Quote: “And Lord Tywin?” Catelyn interrupted. “Have you perchance taken Lord Tywin, Theon?” Catelyn asks an eloquent question of him. How is his arrogance different from Jamie’s?
He’s arrogant AND young. Just like an adolescent he can’t see very far ahead, doesn’t see the big picture. I think Robb is a bit better at seeing the big picture, but it’s a skill that needs to be honed.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
A Time to Kill (other topics)Halfway to the Grave (other topics)
A Clash of Kings (other topics)
River Marked (other topics)
A Game of Thrones (other topics)
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I have not idea, but perhaps we'll learn more about her later?
Lisa Kay also said, "Nope, we weren’t wrong about Jon’s parentage. :)" You know something that I don't. Darn you. *Puts fingers in ears and says, "la la la I didn't hear that" to self.* LOL