Romance Lovers for the Challenge-Impaired discussion
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Series Read: Pink Carnation #3: The Deception of the Emerald Ring (“Buddy Read” DQs) Start: April 16, 2012
Participants
CaroB
Susan
Lisa Kay
YIPPEE!! I am loving this series so much!
Yeah, Susan, that's why I was presumptuous and posted your name already. ☺
I'm so glad you know me so well!! :)
I'm already loving this! It's really a shame I have a headache this evening cause it may prevent me from reading...unless the allergy meds kick in. Of course, if they don't I won't have to necessarily worry about my head hurting cause I'll be having trouble breathing - I'm allergic to the beautiful white bushes that are blooming right now, also known as ligustrum, or in my house, "the evil white bush that hinders my breathing"
Oh, Susan! I'm sorry you are suffering! Ugh.I haven't started yet, but I'll get on it soon. Tempted to get the audio when I already have the paperback. **sigh**
Thanks, Lisa Kay! Every year at this time, I literally choke to death. There is the most gorgeous bush of it across the street from the church playground, and it smells sooo good. But I could feel my throat closing as I was on the playground :(
Sorry to hear you're sick Susan. I'm having a slow day at work so going to see if I can start this today :-) Ligustrum is considered a weed around where I am, mostly cos the birds love the seeds I think and it competes with the native trees, but they do look pretty with the flowers.
Do you suffer with any other bushes??
Thanks, CaroB! Nope, just that one. In the fall, when I'm home in Louisiana and it's sugar cane harvest time, the combination of smoke and sugar burn from the mills gets me for about 2 months while it goes on. At least I don't live there and suffer with that anymore LOL
I'm somewhere in ch 8 or 9 (30%) and I feel awful for Letty! I know she has no clue what Geoff is up to, but to witness what she just did? My heart goes out to her. I probably would have made a scene.
I'm being bad, Susan! I'm downloading the audiobook as I type!
Okay, I'm going to listen up to the end of Chapter 8. That takes us to page 123, more than a 1/4 of the book. Do you want me to post the first set of questions, Susan, or do you? I'm easy...whatever.
Or I can go to through Chapter 9. Whatever.
Oh! LOL! Grandma sounds a little like an old Katherine Hepburn.
You can do the first set of questions, Lisa Kay and I'll get the next set...ch 9 - ? where should I stop? LOL
Just finished chapter 9 so ready when you are ladies!
Sorry, I had a little (view spoiler) and am running behind.
Okay, I'm writing up the DQs now.
Sorry. Damn deviled-egg potato salad. I always get it fresh from the deli section, but the attendant told me I could get it for half the price in the pre-package container. Ugh! Never again. I'm going with fresh.
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 1 – 8 1. Whatever is keeping Colin from calling Eloise? (Poor Amy, Richard, & little red-headed Gwendolyn, LOL!) Gad! One thing I don’t miss about being young is the whole, “Why isn’t he calling?” thing.
2. I love this book. It is so well written and edited. Even though I am listening to it on audiobook, I pick up the paperback and find myself re-reading some of the lines just because I’m enjoying the words and the flow. You?
3. Still, I am so NOT a big admirer of the ‘hero-in-love-with-the-sister’ theme. Good Gravy Beans! I hope this author can pull it off. How about you? Does this theme bother you?
4. Am I the only one that is suspicious as to why Mary wanted to marry Geoffrey? Was she really trying to get out some appalling marriage – maybe to an old fuddy-duddy? Did she just feel she had set on the shelf too long? Is she pregnant?
5. What’s with Geoffrey not recognizing the determination of his coachman to do as he said? Geez! Men!
6. I kind of liked Letty’s idea of saying it was Mary in the coach instead of her. Drat! Except for Nosey Rosey Frobisher. Was it worth taking a chance that he might have been too drunk to recall which sister it was? And why didn’t Geoffrey go along with her (admittedly horrible) performance and hid her deeper in the coach back when Frobisher first discovered them? Was Geoffrey still too befuddled by that kiss?
7. “Don’t taunt me with lost opportunities, my dear.” LMAO! Why is it I think Mr. Alsworthy wasn’t thinking of himself kidnapping Mrs. Alsworthy, but another pirate? And what he said about curing Letty of her desire for the ‘best of intentions’, LOL! Any other line of dialogue that pops out at you as humorous. Well, besides (view spoiler)
8. I’m worried about Geoffrey and Letty’s safety in going to Ireland. I think they are going to get in the thick of it. (BTW, I had no idea Bonaparte encourage Irish rebellion as a means to a back door entry into England; makes since, tough.)
9. Do you think Letty will be able to help decode Rathfarnham’s poetry?
10. What about the way Ms. Willig recapped the Masque of the Black Tullip? Too much, too little, just right? Clever?
11. What about Geoffrey’s turd of cousin, Jasper? Will he be in the story more? Even as it changes local to Ireland?
12. I love Lady Henrietta! LOL! She had one up on Miles in figuring it all out, didn’t she? But, I’m kind of missing Lady Uppington.
13. Was I the only one who had to do a re-read in Chapter Eight? How the hell did Letty get on that ship? LOL!
I'm continuing on, ladies. So, if you want to post the next set of DQs, go right ahead. Up to and through Chapter 20? That way we can do the last of it tomorrow.
Sorry Lisa Kay, just saw these, thanks for doing up the questions!
Not a problem, CaroB, my friend. Just sorry I was late posting. ☺
Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 1 – 8 1. Whatever is keeping Colin from calling Eloise? (Poor Amy, Richard, & little red-headed Gwendolyn, LOL!) Gad! One thing I don’t miss about being young is the whole, “Why isn’t he calling?” thing.
I suspect he's had some kind of tragedy at the end of his last book, which is why he was so distracted and dropped her off that way.
2. I love this book. It is so well written and edited. Even though I am listening to it on audiobook, I pick up the paperback and find myself re-reading some of the lines just because I’m enjoying the words and the flow. You?
Definitely! I think the humour from Eloise is more evident here as well, than in the previous two books.
3. Still, I am so NOT a big admirer of the ‘hero-in-love-with-the-sister’ theme. Good Gravy Beans! I hope this author can pull it off. How about you? Does this theme bother you?
lol, I haven't come across this trope too often, so I wouldn't say it bothers me more than any other love triangle set-up. I'm curious how the misconceptions will be overcome so that they can REALLY get to know each other.
4. Am I the only one that is suspicious as to why Mary wanted to marry Geoffrey? Was she really trying to get out some appalling marriage – maybe to an old fuddy-duddy? Did she just feel she had set on the shelf too long? Is she pregnant?
My impression was that she knew she was running out of time for her to still be eligible. She wanted a titled gentleman with money, and she Geoffrey was teh only one besotted enough to want to marry her despite her own lack of money or title or good enough family heritage.
5. What’s with Geoffrey not recognizing the determination of his coachman to do as he said? Geez! Men!
Bros before Hos! :-p
6. I kind of liked Letty’s idea of saying it was Mary in the coach instead of her. Drat! Except for Nosey Rosey Frobisher. Was it worth taking a chance that he might have been too drunk to recall which sister it was? And why didn’t Geoffrey go along with her (admittedly horrible) performance and hid her deeper in the coach back when Frobisher first discovered them? Was Geoffrey still too befuddled by that kiss?
I think it was the shock that he'd been set-up. I'd have to think it would be a common enough occurrence back in those days of men getting literally trapped into marriage. Part of me feels sorry for him, part of me wants to smack him upside the head.
7. “Don’t taunt me with lost opportunities, my dear.” LMAO! Why is it I think Mr. Alsworthy wasn’t thinking of himself kidnapping Mrs. Alsworthy, but another pirate? And what he said about curing Letty of her desire for the ‘best of intentions’, LOL! Any other line of dialogue that pops out at you as humorous. Well, besides (view spoiler)
Can't think of anything specific, but I did love seeing the byplay of Henrietta and Miles again :-D
8. I’m worried about Geoffrey and Letty’s safety in going to Ireland. I think they are going to get in the thick of it. (BTW, I had no idea Bonaparte encourage Irish rebellion as a means to a back door entry into England; makes since, tough.)
That was news to me too. I'm actually looking forward to learning a bit more about the volatilty in this period. I've been googling for some extra background info and found myself getting caught up it it. It's not a historical period / setting that my books usually focus on.
9. Do you think Letty will be able to help decode Rathfarnham’s poetry?
I hope so, she seems to have a good head on her shoulders and am hoping that she'll be an asset to Geoffrey's investogation.
10. What about the way Ms. Willig recapped the Masque of the Black Tullip? Too much, too little, just right? Clever?
Just right. But it does make me want to re-read parts of it that were really confusing, especially as she seems to be throwing us off the scent of who the real Black Tulip might be...
11. What about Geoffrey’s turd of cousin, Jasper? Will he be in the story more? Even as it changes local to Ireland?
I'm thinking he might be a dark horse... we're sure to see moer of him, if not in this book, further in the series, perhaps.
12. I love Lady Henrietta! LOL! She had one up on Miles in figuring it all out, didn’t she? But, I’m kind of missing Lady Uppington.
I think Lord Alsworthy makes up for Lady Uppington.
13. Was I the only one who had to do a re-read in Chapter Eight? How the hell did Letty get on that ship? LOL!
LOL!! I was wondering the same thing!!!
@ CaroB#1 – Could be! I wonder why Eloise hasn’t thought of that.
#2 – I concur! ☺
#3 – Yeah, a bit of an “ick/betrayal” factor for me. Glad he went trought the thought-process, though. I think LW might be able to pull this one off for me.
#4 – Could be. I must say, it was a very true back in this era for money to marry money, unlike what the romance books lead us to believe. Running those estates was very expensive!$!
#5 – Falling out of chair, LMAO! Oh, Caro!
#6 – Yes, I think it was a common occurrence back then, just because so little implied so much!
#7 – Yes, loving H&M. ☺
#8 – Neat! You’ll have to share what you find.
#10 – You mean what with Geoffrey’s doubt? Yeah, I picked up on that too. Hmmmmm… Interesting.
#11 – Mind Meld! I don’t trust Jasper.
#12 – ☺ Mr. A does!
I'm fixing to start ch 17, so I'll post my questions through ch 20 later tonight after I finish reading :)
SUsan's Answers to Lisa Kay’s Questions for Chapters 1 – 8 1. Whatever is keeping Colin from calling Eloise? (Poor Amy, Richard, & little red-headed Gwendolyn, LOL!) Gad! One thing I don’t miss about being young is the whole, “Why isn’t he calling?” thing.
I don't know what is keeping him from calling. Could it really be as simple as he doesn't have her phone number and is too embarrassed to call his aunt for it?
2. I love this book. It is so well written and edited. Even though I am listening to it on audiobook, I pick up the paperback and find myself re-reading some of the lines just because I’m enjoying the words and the flow. You?
This has quickly become one of my favorite series. I could easily pick up the next book right after finishing this one and read through all of them LOL
3. Still, I am so NOT a big admirer of the ‘hero-in-love-with-the-sister’ theme. Good Gravy Beans! I hope this author can pull it off. How about you? Does this theme bother you?
This theme doesn't really bother me; I guess I haven't read enough of them to be bothered :)
4. Am I the only one that is suspicious as to why Mary wanted to marry Geoffrey? Was she really trying to get out some appalling marriage – maybe to an old fuddy-duddy? Did she just feel she had set on the shelf too long? Is she pregnant?
I agree with CaroB, I think she was just ready to get married and didn't particularly care who it was to. But if he had a title and money, the better
5. What’s with Geoffrey not recognizing the determination of his coachman to do as he said? Geez! Men!
I'm still giggling at CaroB's answer :D
6. I kind of liked Letty’s idea of saying it was Mary in the coach instead of her. Drat! Except for Nosey Rosey Frobisher. Was it worth taking a chance that he might have been too drunk to recall which sister it was? And why didn’t Geoffrey go along with her (admittedly horrible) performance and hid her deeper in the coach back when Frobisher first discovered them? Was Geoffrey still too befuddled by that kiss?
I think the kiss threw him for a loop! And then to be noticed immediately. I do wonder if Mary set that up, hoping it would be her in the coach.
7. “Don’t taunt me with lost opportunities, my dear.” LMAO! Why is it I think Mr. Alsworthy wasn’t thinking of himself kidnapping Mrs. Alsworthy, but another pirate? And what he said about curing Letty of her desire for the ‘best of intentions’, LOL! Any other line of dialogue that pops out at you as humorous. Well, besides (view spoiler)
I've laughed so hard Mr Alsworthy's comments! When he told Mary she needed to take lessons in being compromised was funny!
8. I’m worried about Geoffrey and Letty’s safety in going to Ireland. I think they are going to get in the thick of it. (BTW, I had no idea Bonaparte encourage Irish rebellion as a means to a back door entry into England; makes since, tough.)
I'm worried about Letty's safety, not so much Geoff's cause he's done this before. But Letty is going in blind, not even having a clue what is going on. And I didn't know anything about this part of history either.
9. Do you think Letty will be able to help decode Rathfarnham’s poetry?
I hope so
10. What about the way Ms. Willig recapped the Masque of the Black Tullip? Too much, too little, just right? Clever?
It was perfect. I'm with Geoffrey, was she really the Black Tulip. That is part of what I was confused about last book. I know we were told she was the Black Tulip, but could it have been a cover? Could it be more than one person working together? I just don't know. Especially now that Lord Vaughn has shown up in this book
11. What about Geoffrey’s turd of cousin, Jasper? Will he be in the story more? Even as it changes local to Ireland?
Geoffrey's turd of a cousin, Jasper. I LOVE THAT!! I'm sure he'll be in here more ;0)
12. I love Lady Henrietta! LOL! She had one up on Miles in figuring it all out, didn’t she? But, I’m kind of missing Lady Uppington.
I do love Lady Henrietta! She and Miles are so cute together! I also miss Lady Uppington, but yes, Mr Alsworthy more than makes up for her being gone :D
13. Was I the only one who had to do a re-read in Chapter Eight? How the hell did Letty get on that ship? LOL!
Last thing I knew, it seemed like she was fixing to pass out, then she's on a ship. It was odd
@ Susan#1 – Ah! Good point. It could be that simple.
#2 – I know! I just L♥VE it!
#3 – You two are lucky!
#4 – I’m thinking she’s a bit of a schemer, but maybe not.
#5 – I know! She’s so bad. LOL!
#6 – Ah! I hadn’t thought of that! See! You think Mary’s a bit of a schemer too!
#7 – Yes. And I love that he just wants to hid in his book, but loves his daughter.
#8 – Good point about Geoff. I know a smidgen, but not about Bonaparte.
#10 – That is what I was wondering – if there are two (or more?!)?
#13 – It was odd! I had to rewind the audio and check the book to see if I missed something.
Susan's Questions for chapters 9-2014. Will Emily be important? Meaning, will she turn out to be someone other than just a friend to Letty?
15. Didn't you just KNOW Letty was going to see Pinchingdale at Mrs. Lanergan's party? My heart broke for her when she saw him - yes, marrying him wasn't something she ever considered, but to think he'd be unfaithful so quickly and she'd have to live with that, hurt my heart. Did you suspect the true identity of the young girl he was flirting with? I'll be honest and say I didn't suspect it was Jane, but I figured the girl had something to do with the mission.
16. When Geoff told Miss Gwen and Jane he saw his wife across the room and Gwen replied, "How could you be so irresponsible as to acquire a wife at this critical juncture?" and he said it wasn't planned, I was a little mad. He had planned on being married - just not to Letty. Would he have been honest with Mary about his "job"?
17. I got the impression Lord Vaughn knew about Letty's situation - not just about her lying about being a widow, but about Pinchingdale's help with the spies. Did you get that? And speaking of Lord Vaughn, why is he there? Even though we were told the Marquise is the Black Tulip, could Lord Vaughn be helping her? Or could that info be false?
18. What'd you think of Geoff's expedition following Emmett?
19. Well crap! Jasper Pinchingdale is in Dublin! What's he doing looking for Letty?
20. When I read the first sentence of chapter 12, "It was sheer coincidence that Jay chose a restaurant in South Kensington," I admit I was a lost for a minute LOL Are yo still liking the Eloise story line? Just when I was getting into it, and Collin walked in the restaurant, it's over! I was a bit frustrated. You?
21. In all honesty, I was impressed with Letty's handling of the info Jane and Geoff gave her. Comments?
22. Did you notice that Geoff was commenting to himself about the color of Letty's eyes? Do you think his feelings are changing yet?
23. Lord Vaughn's at the crypt. Why? And Turd Cousin Jasper showed up as well. Is he stalking them? We know Vaughn is up to no good, but what about Jasper? Are his intentions really Letty or his helping the Black Tulip?
24. Back to the Present! Was I the only one laughing at Jillian's "The Evil 'I-Know-You' Look" as well as the whole conversation between Eloise, Collin and Jay? But no explanation of why he didn't call. GRRR
25. Turd Cousin Jasper strikes again! I think he needs a more yucko name. Like Turd Cousin Extraordinaire. The audacity of him to suggest Letty help kill Jasper. I guess we now know what his true intentions were. Too bad she didn't push him off the balcony.
26. SHUT. THE. FRONT. DOOR. Emily is the Marquise aka The Black Tulip!! And she's dead!! Now I'm really wondering about the true identity of the Black Tulip. And do you think Letty was ever in true danger? I wonder, and this is just a thought that came to me as I'm typing, could Lord Vaughn be a double agent...working with the Black Tulip, but really for the English government, since it seems he's killed her. Nah, probably not, since they'd have stopped the Black Tulip a long time ago if that were the case. Continue to speculate amongst yourselves ;0)
Sorry, didn't see this b/f I went to bed last night...Lisa Kay’s Answers to Susan's Questions for Chapters 9-20
14. Will Emily be important? Meaning, will she turn out to be someone other than just a friend to Letty?
I certainly didn’t think she was going to be anything other than a minor character. Now that we know her identity, I’m wondering if she had something to do with how Letty got on that ship (enquiring minds want to know!).
15. Didn't you just KNOW Letty was going to see Pinchingdale at Mrs. Lanergan's party? My heart broke for her when she saw him - yes, marrying him wasn't something she ever considered, but to think he'd be unfaithful so quickly and she'd have to live with that, hurt my heart. Did you suspect the true identity of the young girl he was flirting with? I'll be honest and say I didn't suspect it was Jane, but I figured the girl had something to do with the mission.
My ♥ ached too; despite the circumstances of their marriage, everyone (male or female) holds idyllic visions of their matrimonial future. Nope! I was completely gobsmacked it was Jane; however, like you, I knew the flirtation was a façade; earlier it was mentioned that Geoff was not a womanizer.
16. When Geoff told Miss Gwen and Jane he saw his wife across the room and Gwen replied, "How could you be so irresponsible as to acquire a wife at this critical juncture?" and he said it wasn't planned, I was a little mad. He had planned on being married - just not to Letty. Would he have been honest with Mary about his "job"?
Ah! Good point, Susan. Indeed, he would have been married. I do think he would have self-justified keeping that info from her.
17. I got the impression Lord Vaughn knew about Letty's situation - not just about her lying about being a widow, but about Pinchingdale's help with the spies. Did you get that? And speaking of Lord Vaughn, why is he there? Even though we were told the Marquise is the Black Tulip, could Lord Vaughn be helping her? Or could that info be false?
I am beginning to belief you are correct. I am wholly mystified as to why Lord Vaughn’s behavior – and his innuendoes. I can’t help thinking there is something blaringly obvious we are missing about him – but I can’t figure out if he is good or evil.
18. What'd you think of Geoff's expedition following Emmet?
His alleyway was clearly more used to housing sewage than spies. I love LW’s “stealthing” escapades; they are written so well. Wasn’t expecting (view spoiler)
19. Well crap! Jasper Pinchingdale is in Dublin! What's he doing looking for Letty?
I know! I was a bit surprised that he had arrived. I think he has an nefarious agenda more than any interest in Letty.
20. When I read the first sentence of chapter 12, "It was sheer coincidence that Jay chose a restaurant in South Kensington," I admit I was a lost for a minute. LOL Are you still liking the Eloise story line? Just when I was getting into it, and Collin walked in the restaurant, it's over! I was a bit frustrated. You?
**shrugs** I’m okay with it. I figure it will be drawn out in comparison to the historical storylines in this series. I agree, though; I think Eloise had gone off the deep end. Maybe too much studying.
21. In all honesty, I was impressed with Letty's handling of the info Jane and Geoff gave her. Comments?
I was too. Just the right combination of skepticism and incredulous, dawning belief.
22. Did you notice that Geoff was commenting to himself about the color of Letty's eyes? Do you think his feelings are changing yet?
Definitely! (About time!)
23. Lord Vaughn's at the crypt. Why? And Turd Cousin Jasper showed up as well. Is he stalking them? We know Vaughn is up to no good, but what about Jasper? Are his intentions really Letty or his helping the Black Tulip?
Again, I was gobsmacked! WTH was that all about in the crypt? Again, I’m lost when it comes to Lord Vaughn. Still thinking Jasper has his own nefarious agenda.
24. Back to the Present! Was I the only one laughing at Jillian's "The Evil 'I-Know-You' Look" as well as the whole conversation between Eloise, Collin and Jay? But no explanation of why he didn't call. GRRR
Mind Meld. LOL! And GRRRRR!
25. Turd Cousin Jasper strikes again! I think he needs a more yucko name. Like Turd Cousin Extraordinaire. The audacity of him to suggest Letty help kill Jasper. I guess we now know what his true intentions were. Too bad she didn't push him off the balcony.
Cowardly Murder-Scheming Lecherous Turd Cousin Extraordinaire, maybe?
26. SHUT. THE. FRONT. DOOR. Emily is the Marquise aka The Black Tulip!! And she's dead!! Now I'm really wondering about the true identity of the Black Tulip. And do you think Letty was ever in true danger? I wonder, and this is just a thought that came to me as I'm typing, could Lord Vaughn be a double agent...working with the Black Tulip, but really for the English government, since it seems he's killed her. Nah, probably not, since they'd have stopped the Black Tulip a long time ago if that were the case. Continue to speculate amongst yourselves ;0)
Yeah, slam it shut! One gobsmack after another! And a bit confused. Wasn’t she the one who had been talking with Lord Vaughn about eliminating a woman? Did she start out the instigator and wind up the victim? I don’t know if Letty was the intended… Emily’s death casts a doubt on that theory. However, Letty might be in danger now, as the killer may think she can identify them. (Is the killer a woman – or, rather, the woman the marquise wanted to kill?) Lord V could be a double agent. Aggghh! Tons to speculations! LOL!
I finished the book this morning and I'm dying as I look back over these questions ROFLOL I have SOOOO much I want to say!@Lisa Kay
#23. I was lost with all the crypt stuff too. Did they find anything there, other than Lord Vaughn?
#26. Like I said, I have sooo much I want to say that refers to this question and answer. Ya'll need to read faster ;0)
@ Susan’s responses to my answers#23 – No, it was the floor above the crypt that was more important. Still, what was with Lord V rubbing his hands on the lines cut into the coffin?
#26 – I’m hurrying! I’m hurrying! LOL!
He was being a creepster. Plain and simple.
sorry, got ccaught up in another book, catching up now!
CaroB, did you catch up? Are you still planning on posting the last set of DQs?
I wonder if CaroB is having Internet trouble again. Hmmm. If she doesn't check in tomorrow, Susan, do you want the two of us to divide the remaining chapters up between us and come up with some DQs?
Sorry ladies, have finished, but Real Life got in the way. Had my RL book club meeting last night, and we were all having such a laugh I didn't get in til 1am, and then had my daughter's Cross Country race today (she came in the top ten for her age group and was completely stoked!!) and we have our house being auctioned this weekend, so was trying to get some details finished off :-) I'm the one running around like a headless chook at the moment. :-)Posting to follow.
Susan's Questions for chapters 9-2014. Will Emily be important? Meaning, will she turn out to be someone other than just a friend to Letty? I was alsready of the guardian who kept misquoting things...
15. Didn't you just KNOW Letty was going to see Pinchingdale at Mrs. Lanergan's party? My heart broke for her when she saw him - yes, marrying him wasn't something she ever considered, but to think he'd be unfaithful so quickly and she'd have to live with that, hurt my heart. Did you suspect the true identity of the young girl he was flirting with? I'll be honest and say I didn't suspect it was Jane, but I figured the girl had something to do with the mission. I had suspected Jane, but only because I knew she was the one who sent for Geoffrey in the last book so I knew she was already in Ireland.
16. When Geoff told Miss Gwen and Jane he saw his wife across the room and Gwen replied, "How could you be so irresponsible as to acquire a wife at this critical juncture?" and he said it wasn't planned, I was a little mad. He had planned on being married - just not to Letty. Would he have been honest with Mary about his "job"? No, And I don't think Mary would've cared as long as he was conveniently out of her way.
17. I got the impression Lord Vaughn knew about Letty's situation - not just about her lying about being a widow, but about Pinchingdale's help with the spies. Did you get that? And speaking of Lord Vaughn, why is he there? Even though we were told the Marquise is the Black Tulip, could Lord Vaughn be helping her? Or could that info be false? I have to admit, I'm starting to think there's more to Lord Vaughn than we might be seeing... I think the way that he and Jane banter back and forth... dare I say I suspect there may be chemistry there? I'm thinking he'll either end up being the big villain or he'll be a misunderstood hero in an upcoming book...
18. What'd you think of Geoff's expedition following Emmett? Not much, I kind of expected spy work to include a lot more of that type of activity.
19. Well crap! Jasper Pinchingdale is in Dublin! What's he doing looking for Letty? I thought he might be involved, but I'd mistakenly thought he might secretly be a good guy too. Phht! Shows what I know!
20. When I read the first sentence of chapter 12, "It was sheer coincidence that Jay chose a restaurant in South Kensington," I admit I was a lost for a minute LOL Are yo still liking the Eloise story line? Just when I was getting into it, and Collin walked in the restaurant, it's over! I was a bit frustrated. You? YES! I even considered reading the two storylines separately from them on, but was glad I didn't because the Eloise Storyline gives some of the Pink Carnation spoilers away.
21. In all honesty, I was impressed with Letty's handling of the info Jane and Geoff gave her. Comments? I was too, especially after some of the immaturity shown by Henrietta, as lovable as she was, in her handling of some of the more sensitive investigations in the last book.
22. Did you notice that Geoff was commenting to himself about the color of Letty's eyes? Do you think his feelings are changing yet? Yes :-) And very glad I was about it too!
23. Lord Vaughn's at the crypt. Why? And Turd Cousin Jasper showed up as well. Is he stalking them? We know Vaughn is up to no good, but what about Jasper? Are his intentions really Letty or his helping the Black Tulip? I didn't understand why they all needed to be there at all. Surely it would've made more sense for Geoff to just sneak in there on his own?
24. Back to the Present! Was I the only one laughing at Jillian's "The Evil 'I-Know-You' Look" as well as the whole conversation between Eloise, Collin and Jay? But no explanation of why he didn't call. GRRR I laughed too!
25. Turd Cousin Jasper strikes again! I think he needs a more yucko name. Like Turd Cousin Extraordinaire. The audacity of him to suggest Letty help kill Jasper. I guess we now know what his true intentions were. Too bad she didn't push him off the balcony. Ok, no really, this is how slow I am: I actually thought he was tricking her into seeing whether she was good enough for his cousin. Crazy right? But for some reason, I kept thinking that he was so obviously turdy, that maybe he wasn't actually turdy at all! LOL, This is what these spy novels have reduced me to!
26. SHUT. THE. FRONT. DOOR. Emily is the Marquise aka The Black Tulip!! And she's dead!! Now I'm really wondering about the true identity of the Black Tulip. And do you think Letty was ever in true danger? I wonder, and this is just a thought that came to me as I'm typing, could Lord Vaughn be a double agent...working with the Black Tulip, but really for the English government, since it seems he's killed her. Nah, probably not, since they'd have stopped the Black Tulip a long time ago if that were the case. Continue to speculate amongst yourselves ;0) I'm scared my head will explode from all the speculation :-)
Congrats on her placing in the race! One of my daughter's best friends runs cross country and got a scholarship to college for it.
Thanks Susan. She's only seven, but she's been really focused on it and got to stay up an extra hour to read in bed as a reward :-)
Oh I'm a doofus. just read the synopsis of the next novel and it's Lord Vaughn and Mary!! Didn't see that one coming!
Woohoo! That is really neat about your daughter, CaroB!
@ CaroB#15 – See! I knew that. Why didn’t I put two and two together?
#16 – Good point. I don’t think Mary would have cared one way or the other.
#17 – It is a mystery… or was, until I posted the synopsis. LOL!
#19 – You did? LOL! Glad I’m not the only one who makes that kind of wishful mistake.
#20 – Interesting! I’m really like the way LW transitioned from century to century in this one. I thought it a big improvement over the past books. **shrugs** You ladies must have really been caught up in the past storyline. BTW, excellent point about Eloise’s storyline giving hints.
#23 – Probably. Maybe they thought they could be his ‘beard’?
#25 – LOL! Man-oh-man! CaroB, you were desperately trying to save Jasper’s character, weren’t you? LOL! I’ve done that.
#26 – LOL! I hear you. ☺ But maybe that feeling is from the beverages served at your book club last night? LOL!
Re #15 - I was totally lost! I knew Jane was there and sent for him, I just wasn't thinking she was undercover and it was her ROFLOL
Susan (susayq) wrote: "Re #15 - I was totally lost! I knew Jane was there and sent for him, I just wasn't thinking she was undercover and it was her ROFLOL"Same here, Susan! LOL!
CaroB's questions for chapters 21-3127. That kiss in the carriage! Again. Was the chemistry build-up after the previous antagonism between Letty and Geoff, realistic to you? What do you think of both of their reactions immediately after the kiss?
28. Talk about curious! So Vaugh IS a double agent and the marquise is playing the role of his cousin? Why let her be seen at all, even in a man's disguise... why nto just keep her tucked away in the country somewhere?
29. What's you theory on the "petals with no stem"? (snigger)Brilliant spy plan or a chance for further plot-props?
30. Is anyone else starting to think Eloise is acting terribly immature for a post-grad historian? Why did she let Colin assume she and Jay were together?
31. I found Geoff's offer for Letty to come home with him surprising, and a bit presumptuous (if you can say that with a married couple), but then he redeemed himself in the carriage ride with the cuddle :-) What was your take on it and the ensuing combination of humour and sweetness of the household decorations and the lemon for the freckles, and her having read his poetry etc. Too corny? Overdone? Perfect?
32. I had a giggle at Geoff arming Letty with all the weapons available to a lady that he could think of. Did you think she'd have to use any?
33. Who do you think killed the Marquise? Is it someone we've already met in this book or do you think it will end up being someone who gets introduced in the next book?
34. Letty takes note of how tired and gaunt Vaughn is looking. For someone who is supposedly indifferent to his role as a double agent, what do you think he's having trouble with?
35. Ok, So I must admit, I knew Letty would make it in time to save Geoff, and Miss Gwen was a crack up, but I did NOT see Jasper coming. Did you?
36. Yaay for the scissors!! Do you think Jasper got off too lightly? Did you like the way Geoff used his own insecurities to convince Letty of his feelings?
37. Eloise has a date with Colin!! So excited!!
Lisa Kay’s Answers to CaroB's Questions for Chapters 21-31 27. That kiss in the carriage! Again. Was the chemistry build-up after the previous antagonism between Letty and Geoff, realistic to you? What do you think of both of their reactions immediately after the kiss?
Well, I didn’t think what Geoff said was all that bad, except for the fact that he said it and it was in reference to what happened. I wanted to bop them both.
28. Talk about curious! So Vaugh IS a double agent and the marquise is playing the role of his cousin? Why let her be seen at all, even in a man's disguise... why not just keep her tucked away in the country somewhere?
Good point. But would she stay put?
29. What's you theory on the "petals with no stem"? (snigger) Brilliant spy plan or a chance for further plot-props?
**giggles** You are bad, Caro! I think it is a bit of both.
30. Is anyone else starting to think Eloise is acting terribly immature for a post-grad historian? Why did she let Colin assume she and Jay were together?
Yes, I really thought that was all due to stress. Way too immature for her age and education. Of course, my girl-friend is one of the smartest people I know and she is a dope when it comes to men. At least she fessed up before it went on too long.
31. I found Geoff's offer for Letty to come home with him surprising, and a bit presumptuous (if you can say that with a married couple), but then he redeemed himself in the carriage ride with the cuddle :-) What was your take on it and the ensuing combination of humour and sweetness of the household decorations and the lemon for the freckles, and her having read his poetry etc. Too corny? Overdone? Perfect?
Yes, I wondered what had gotten into him – and then I wondered what had gotten into her! I thought for sure she would object. All the rest? Perfect!
32. I had a giggle at Geoff arming Letty with all the weapons available to a lady that he could think of. Did you think she'd have to use any?
That was too funny! Glad she had them. I figured she’d use at least one. It was kind of fun trying to figure out which one(s).
33. Who do you think killed the Marquise? Is it someone we've already met in this book or do you think it will end up being someone who gets introduced in the next book?
I don’t know! I don’t know! I don’t know! LOL! I’m about 50/50 on this answer.
34. Letty takes note of how tired and gaunt Vaughn is looking. For someone who is supposedly indifferent to his role as a double agent, what do you think he's having trouble with?
I can image it would be very trying on the soul. You would always be “on”. That and the marquise being his wife has to be a burden.
35. Ok, So I must admit, I knew Letty would make it in time to save Geoff, and Miss Gwen was a crack up, but I did NOT see Jasper coming. Did you?
No! I remember wondering if he would even show up ever again at the beginning of the book. Now he is like a bad penny and keeps turning up! I was shocked too.
36. Yaay for the scissors!! Do you think Jasper got off too lightly? Did you like the way Geoff used his own insecurities to convince Letty of his feelings?
Yes, Jasper got off too lightly. Yes, I liked his rational.
37. Eloise has a date with Colin!! So excited!!
**Lisa Kay does Happy Dance with CaroB & Susan**
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Romance Lovers for the Challenge-Impaired
Books mentioned in this topic
The Deception of the Emerald Ring (other topics)Authors mentioned in this topic
Lauren Willig (other topics)Lauren Willig (other topics)
A dangerous ring of spies, a game of mistaken identities, and a heartwarming romance of unlikely pairs come together in Lauren Willig's engaging and exciting third novel THE DECPTION OF THE EMERALD RING. Praised for the "cheerfully postmodern and energetic . . .romance-adventure hybrids [that] have escaped the clutches of niche fiction." (The Onion A.V. Club), her Pink Carnation series is garnering her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Lauren Willig's debut The Secret History of the Pink Carnation, appeared on retailer bestseller lists in hardcover and made a big splash in sales in trade paperback. Her second book, The Masque of the Black Tulip, was selected as a BookSense Pick for January 2006, and continue to rack up incredible reviews. Lauren Willig's passion for authentic historical detail coupled with her talent for enthralling love stories make her series the perfect read for lovers of romance, history and adventure.
The year is 1803 and England and France remain at odds. Hoping to break the English once and for all, Napoleon backs a ring of Irish rebels in uprisings against England and sends the Black Tulip, France's most deadly spy, to the Emerald Isle to help. What they don't know is that also in Ireland is England's top spy, the Pink Carnation, who is working to shut the rebels down. Meanwhile, back in England, Letty Alsworthy intercepts a note indicating that her sister, Mary, is about to make the very grave mistake of eloping with Geoffrey Pinchingdale-Snipe (second in command of the League of the Purple Gentian). In an attempt to save the family name, Letty tries to stop the elopement, but instead finds herself swept away in the midnight carriage meant for her sister and is accidentally compromised. Geoff and Letty, to each other's horror, find themselves forced into matrimony. Then, Geoff receives word that he is to travel to Ireland to help the Pink Carnation and disappears immediately after their wedding ceremony. Letty learns of Geoff's disappearance and, not to be outdone by her husband, steals away on a ship bound for Ireland, armed and ready to fight for her husband and to learn a thing or two about spying for England.
As in her previous tales, The Secret History of the Pink Carnation and The Masque Of the Black Tulip, our modern-day heroine and hero, Eloise Kelly and Colin Selwick, continue their budding romance in this captivating third novel in the series.
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We are doing a “buddy read” of this one, the third in the Pink Carnation series. Come join us. Answer DQs (discussion questions), volunteer to write some (or not), or just lurk! Anyone welcome.
EXPECT SPOILERS
Planned Start Date: April 16, 2012