Red Seas Under Red Skies by Scott Lynch, Readalong week 1
This week sees the start of our group readalong for Scott Lynch’s RSURS. We recently read the Lies of Locke Lamora which turned out to be an incredible readalong with loads of discussion. The readalong is being hosted by the Little Red Reviewer and the schedule and information can be found here. If you haven’t read the Lies of Locke Lamora then I would personally advise that you read this first (but that’s just my preference and I have no idea how well this would read as a stand alone – if you haven’t read the first but have read this I would love to know how you found it to read and whether you enjoyed it. That aside, I love these books. Scott Lynch is amazing and I strongly recommend that you pick up his books and give them a try – also, it would be great for you to join in with us all now! I would also point out that beyond this point the questions and answers will contain spoilers not only for the Lies of Locke Lamora but also for Red Seas Under Red Skies – so if you’re a bit curious, then read on. If you don’t want to know ‘things’ then stop right HERE.
1. The Sinspire. It looks like our heroes (can they really be called that?) find themselves in search of a way into an unbeatable vault. Do you think they have what it takes to make it happen?
I think they always manage to come up with something. It seems pretty tough though! And, I can’t help drawing the parallel with Lies of Locke Lamora. We start with the set up for some elaborate ploy. Then something seems to go astray. Working on that basis it depends on how you measure success – did the GBs succeed with their original ploy?? Not in a conventional way for sure. Will this storyline be similar?
I can’t help wondering though why they always have to go for such a big heist. They seem to thrive off the pressure somehow. And,in that respect, yes, I think they can succeed.
2. Anyone want to guess how they’re going to make it happen?
I have read this book fairly recently so don’t want to speculate too much on this one. I do know, and can admit, that I didn’t have the foggiest notion of how they were going to accomplish such a feat and I was gobsmacked and overawed by their planning and foresight!
3. It’s a little different this time around, with us just being focused on Locke and Jean. Is anyone else missing the rest of the Bastards as much as I am?
It’s really odd but I’m not missing them as much as I should or thought I would and somehow it makes me feel guilty. I honestly really liked the other members of the GBs and was gutted about what happened to them but I’m not sure if that’s because I bought into their actual characters or I bought into the gang itself – a bit like football, I liked the team but I definitely had favourite players. This time, and virtually from the offset, the banter has been brilliant. Jean and Locke are so great to read. Their dialogue is just plain bloody funny! And it makes me forget the others – again guilt, guilt, guilt!
4. I love the section where Jean starts to build a new guild of thieves. It really shows just how well trained and tough he is. Do you think the Bastards will end up training others along the way again like Bug?
Not sure about this. I hope they do but perhaps it will feel like a betrayal to them. Obviously Jean did this initially as a means of making some quick and easy money when they were in dire straits. He actually ended up liking it though and felt a sort of pride in what he’d done. It makes you wonder how Chains must have felt. I loved the scenes with Jean – he’s a total maniac just striding in there all confident! I do love him though!!!
5. For those of you looking for Sabetha, we still haven’t spotted her yet. Anyone else chomping at the bit to see the love of Locke’s life?
I really do want to see Sabetha – it’s beginning to feel like she’s a myth. She’s a unicorn or the Lock Ness Monster – we’re just not going to see her. She’ll be discussed and mentioned and it will intrigue us…. I really do hope that she’s going to put in an appearance. At some point. Come on Scott – chuch us a fricking bone!
6. It’s early on, but the Bastards are already caught up in plots that they didn’t expect. How do you think their new “employer” is going to make use of them (The Archon, that is)?
The Archon feels a little bit like the Grey King to me already. Of course this is not a good thing because we all know how that panned out! He’s under control, he knows what they’re up to – there are quite a few parallels which frankly would never have occured to me if I hadn’t read the books in such quick succession. It’s very interesting…. I can’t say more because of giving things away
I would also just point out that although this is a reread i’m trying to be circumspect with my answers so if I make a statement it doesn’t necessarily mean that something will go that way. I’m just saying…. Thats all.
Enjoy, and thanks Bryce at My Awful Reviews for this week’s questions. 😀
Final Empire, Mistborn Book One readalong, week 3
25 April 2012
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Brandon Sanderson, Final Empire, Mistborn book one readalong
This week we’ve been reading Chapters 16 to 25 for our group readalong hosted by Carl over at Stainless Steel Droppings. Check out the details here and it’s probably not too late to take part or to join in with the discussions if you’ve already read the novel. Questions this week were provided by Grace and be warned not to read further if you don’t want any spoilers.
I’ve really enjoyed this week’s reading and can’t wait for the discussion this week.
1. During the past week there’s been a lot of speculation as to the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. Now that we finally know the answer, does it change anyone’s opinions of the Lord Ruler?
It’s very intriguing. At the start of the readalong I was actually reading the quotes but not really giving them a great deal of attention to be honest. I only went back to check them out because there was speculation about who the quotes were from – at that point I hadn’t even considered that they were from one of the characters we were reading about. I think this is a great way of incorporating another storyline. I’ve had to go back to the beginning to reread the quotes and piece together the little story that’s taking shape. What a great idea. We’re not getting to see the Lord Ruler and so far he’s a big mystery which all adds to the speculation about him but now we have this story within the story it’s really very interesting. I wouldn’t say that learning a little more of the Lord Ruler’s story is making me like him anymore but perhaps it starts to give him a bit more of an identity – you can see that he didn’t start this way and maybe living for two thousand years would be enough to make anybody a bit jaded (no, still don’t like him)!. I certainly want to find out what actually took place and I’m interested by these mists/shadows that are mentioned. Perhaps, the Lord Ruler was the first person to be born a mistborn but without direction he didn’t know how to use his powers or perhaps he found this ‘eleventh’ metal that nobody else seems to know of and has used that to become immortal. It feels to me like Sanderson is now taking us down the path of ‘can we really trust Kelsier’? The Lord Ruler didn’t seem to always be the monster he is now known as and so will Kelsier’s inevitable saviour status corrupt him also. I’m not sure that I believe that at the moment. I can see that Kelsier is becoming a little bit enamoured with his new ‘celebrity’ status but he still seems to listen to the rest of his crew. Anyway, I’m eager to find out – I wonder whether the recently discovered book that Sazed is translating will reveal something important or essential about the Lord Ruler??
2. What did you think of Elend’s group of subversive nobles? Do you think that Kelsier is right to dismiss people who could be potential allies, or is this another case of his anti-nobility biases showing?
I suppose to a certain extent I can’t help thinking Kelsier is not in a strong enough position to dismiss any potential allies, but, saying that is easier said than done. It would be incredibly difficult to relay your plans about overthrowing the Lord Ruler to a bunch of the nobility – they’re his little favourites after all and even though they might have squabbling between themselves they have very easy and indulgent lives (at the Lord Ruler’s whim) and they have a lot to lose. Plus the skaa are nothing to them. There are a few with consciences (or so it appears) but are they going to get on board with a situation which potentially loses them their workforce or their lives? Despite that, I do like Elend, I’m not totally sure he’s going to be a man of action – maybe he’s going to uncover something important with all his reading. I can’t help thinking that reading is going to play a part her somewhere – we keep being told about all Elend’s reading and now Sazed with his translation of this all mysterious book!
3. What’s your favorite part of the book so far?
Well, this is a really difficult one to answer! Every week I’m totally surprised to find I’ve liked this week’s chapters more than the last – even though I really liked the earlier parts as well! I’m particularly enjoying watching Vin’s development. Not only is she becoming more confident in her own abilities but she’s actually starting to enjoy the company of the rest of the crew and to feel like a part of something. She even had a brief spell of reflecting about her brother and wishing he’d had a chance to experience something similar. I like the fact that she likes Elend and wants to think the best of him and will actually come straight to the point and ask her questions. But, I like the most the interaction with her and Sazed. Their discussion in the library was good to read and I also liked that she actually asked Sazed before she used her allomancy when following Elend at the last Ball she attended – they both seem to be developing a mutual trust and it’s good to see.
4. Now that Kelsier’s plan has hit some major stumbling blocks, what do you think will happen next? Do you think he can still succeed in defeating the Lord Ruler?
I actually do think that the Lord Ruler will be defeated and Kelsier and his crew are just going to have to come up with a Plan B – quickly. But, the only reason I feel so confident about this is because of the name of the book ‘Final Empire’ which is probably a bit goofy of me but there it is!
Bonus: For anyone who has read “The Way of Kings,” were you surprised at all to see Hoid pop up? What do you think of his role here? Unfortunately I haven’t yet read The Way of Kings so can’t comment on this one.
Good questions Grace, thanks.
Lynn
Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson, Mistborn readalong week 2
18 April 2012
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Brandon Sanderson, Final Empire, Mistborn readalong
Just finished reading this week’s Chapters for the Mistborn readalong being hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings. If you’re not taking part there’s still time to join in the fun or just to become involved with the discussions. Check out this link and whilst you’re there take a look at Carl’s Once Upon a Time event.
Well, I really enjoyed this week’s read, again. It was very interesting and compelling, new characters and also I had what I thought was a bit of a revelation (for me) although it’s probably all wrong! I was getting towards the end of the designated chapters – probably No.14 or something like that – and I was reading the little introductory story at the start of the chapter and it came into my mind (and I don’t know why) that maybe these little snippets were actually related to the Lord Ruler? Now that’s probably a stupid idea but it got me thinking and so I went back and read the previous chapter beginnings from the start to our current point and it’s actually telling a story of sorts – I hadn’t realised that as I was reading along because I read the snippet and by the time I get to the next chapter I don’t remember the content and so hadn’t realised they were connected – I originally thought that there were all random thoughts from different people involved in the story but now I think it’s the same person and one story – has anybody else noticed that at all? Anyway, moving over to the questions which this week were provided by TBM my answers are below (stop reading now if you haven’t read as there will be spoilers ahead).
1. The nobility, the skaa, and the Lord Ruler have integral roles in the novel and yet we haven’t really interacted with them much. Do you think there is a reason for this? Have you formed an opinion about them?
I wonder if we have had so little interaction at the moment in order to maintain a sense of mystery. Particularly in relation to the Lord Ruler. I’m finding it difficult to believe that he’s immortal for example and can’t help wondering if he has some sort of secret device or other means or regenerating himself? I suppose the less we know the more our minds will run rampant looking for explanations. I like that about Sanderson’s way of storytelling. The other thing that I’m really enjoying about Sanderson’s storytelling is just that he has this brilliant way of making me feel as though I’m on the same wavelength as him (which I’m pretty sure I’m not), but, what I mean about that, is I read something and think (‘well, why/where/when,etc) and within a few pages or lines even he’s explaining away my query. It’s great – it’s as though he’s reading my mind and answering my thoughts as we go along (virtual reading!).
2. Religion plays a vital role in the story. What is your opinion about the role of religion under the Lord Ruler? What do you think of Sazed’s role as a Keeper.
I think the Lord Ruler uses religion as a device to keep his subjects in tow. I think the Lord Ruler has probably made up or fashioned some kind of religious story about himself in order to make himself seem invincible. So, in that respect the religion is very important to him. I’m not sure that everyone buy’s into it and there have been hints to the contrary which brings us to Sazed. I don’t think he believes for one minute the Lord Ruler’s hype. I think that’s why he’s always telling people about the many other religions that have been lost to the past. I get the feeling that he’s trying to demonstrate that people want to have something to believe in. They need to have faith that there is more than just ‘this’. And, I think he’s alluding to the fact that the Lord Ruler’s religion is similar in that respect – it’s really a story that he’s surrounded himself with. What is interesting about this religion though is that there is no love for it. The ska are mainly ruled by fear and they may believe the Lord Ruler’s religion (or maybe they are too browbeaten to disbelieve it) but it is simply fear that controls them. Actually thinking into that a little more I suppose many religions have the ‘fear’ aspect – ‘do this’ – and ‘this’ will happen/go to hell/internal damnation, etc, etc – but most religions are loved by their followers?? I don’t think you could even accuse the Ska of loving the Lord Ruler. Not really sure what point I’m now getting at!! I suppose on reflection the Lord Ruler knew what he was doing when he made himself a God and he’s proved himself to be rather canny in terms of self-promotion and marketing! In terms of Sazed – I think he has the potential to turn into one of my favourite characters (without a doubt). He is brilliant as a keeper and I love his patience and his overall attitude. Everyone could do with a friend/keeper like him.
3. Are you for/against/or ambivalent about Kelsier’s plan to overthrow the Lord Ruler? Do you think his heart is in the right place or is it just revenge?
It’s strange to admit but I’m almost complacent about the plan to overthrow the Lord Ruler. Not that I don’t want Kelsier, Vin and the rest of the crew to succeed, but I feel so wrapped up in the minutiae of what’s actually taking place that it’s almost as though I’ve lost sight of the bigger picture. I will just point out that I say this in a good way. I’m enjoying the story and just waiting to see how it develops. I do think Kelsier’s heart is in the right place. I’m sure there is an element of revenge, because frankly how could there not be, but I think he’s always had a sort of mission in his mind – he did after all get captured trying to break into the Lord Ruler’s secret chambers – and this was well before he had any reasons for revenge. Plus he comes across as a bit of a softie – which isn’t always a good thing! He definitely could have done with being a bit firmer with Vin over his latest mission – it almost got her killed after all. And I got the impression he was feeling very guilty about that and turning round with the excuse ‘she followed me and is very stubborn’ doesn’t really cut it when you consider his age and experience. (Although I will admit she is a tenacious little so and so!)
4. Vin and Kelsier are the main characters of the novel, yet there are many characters. Is there a certain character who intrigues you more than the others?
I’m enjoying the development of Vin and Kelsier. I particularly enjoyed watching Vin’s first performance as a noblewoman which brings me nicely onto the two characters that really intrigue me. Sayed and Lord Elend Venture. I think that learning more about Sayed’s history will be very revealing to how this world became as it is. And, I have a feeling that Lord Venture is set to maybe play a bigger part.
I can’t wait to read on and find out how horribly wrong I am!! LOL
Caleb’s Crossing by Geraldine Brooks
Just finished reading Caleb’s Crossing by Geraldine Brooks which tells us the story of Caleb and Bethia. Caleb is a native American from the Island of Martha’s Vineyard and Bethia the daugher of a Minister to a flock of early Puritan settlers.
Although this novel is described as telling the story of Caleb, one of the first Native American’s to attend and graduate from Harvard College in 1666 it centres mainly on Bethia who tells her tale, a part of which is the forbidden friendship that grows between herself and Caleb after a chance when she is out looking for clams.
I enjoy the writing of Geraldine Brooks, she manages to take a subject and with a few brief facts from a certain historical period, weave a story rich with detail. Clearly she must undertake extensive research as her novels always seem to vividly recreate the time and the people from whatever era she is writing about and more to the point she makes you care about her characters. She also seems to take a story that more often than not I begin by thinking I won’t enjoy but then manages to convince me that I will.
Once again this is a wonderful historical novel. It manages to portray the struggles of both characters very well. It depicts the struggles that women of that era faced and it depicts the prejudices faced by the native Americans. We see Bethia change from a young and relatively carefree young girl who has the opportunity to explore the island (whilst under the guise of gathering food for the family) to become an intelligent young woman who has to hide her wit. We also see Caleb develop into a young man of strong will and commitment. Torn between his own tribe and family and his desire to prove himself. The early friendship the two developed as youngsters continues throughout the novel with the two lending each other support in times of need. And support is surely needed for the trials the two of them will go through.
I enjoyed this book although will admit not as much as the two novels I’ve read previously. Don’t misunderstand me, I think the writing is wonderful and the voice of Bethia is compelling but for me personally it lacked something to make it totally absorbing and I can’t quite put my finger on what the missing ingredient is. I enjoyed the first half of the book where we meet Bethia and Caleb and watch them carry out their strange and secret relationship – however, I thought the story really started to come into it’s own as Bethia’s struggles increased. She suffered hardship and loss followed by indenture and prejudice to the extent that I was quite exasperated! But it was intriguing to read about. Caleb at this point however seemed to fade into the background and we lost quite a bit of his story – he became more of a peripheral character just occasionally popping into the story to help carry a particular element of the plot. I thought that was a bit of a shame but as the story is told by Bethia I guess it was inevitable. So, I didn’t love this, but, I thought it was a well written and interesting read. Would I recommend it – yes. As an historical novel it really is a great book but I think personally Year or Wonders and People of the Book stand out more in my mind.
In terms of criticism – it felt like the book came to a very abrupt ending. One moment I was reading Bethia’s reflections. The next moment I started the following chapter and Bethia was dying, of old age! For one moment I thought I’d skipped some pages and had to backtrack to see what was going on. Having said that I must give credit where it’s due. I suppose it would have been a very long story to hear of Bethias complete life story and I guess what we were being given was a snapshot in time to demonstrate the effect that the two had on each other’s lives. We were then left to reflect on whether their frienship had helped or hindered them.
On the whole a very enjoyable historical novel which I’m glad to have read and would certainly recommend.
Caleb's Crossing
Red Seas Under Red Skies by Scott Lynch, Readalong notification
14 April 2012
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Red Seas Under Red Skies, Scott Lynch readalong
For the next few weeks I’ll be taking part in Red Seas Under Red Skies readalong. If you didn’t join in for the Lies of Locke Lamora but want to take part in this next event then check out the Little Red Reviewers web site for details (http://littleredreviewer.wordpress.com/2012/04/12/red-seas-under-red-skies-by-scott-lynch-read-along/).
The schedule for this readalong is as follows:
Week 1 – beginning thru End of Chapter 3, discussion questions go out Thurs April 26, posts go up Sat April 28
Week 2 – Reminiscence “The Lady of the Glass Pylon” through end of Chapter 6, discussion questions go out thurs May 3, posts go up Sat May 5
Week 3 – Chapter 7 thru end of Chapter 10, discussion questions go out May 10, posts go up May 12
Week 4 – Chapter 11 thru end of chapter 13, discussion questions go out May 17, posts go up May 19
Week 5 – Chapter 14 to the end, discussion question go out May 24, posts go up May 26
I hope you take part – the last readalong was brilliant with loads of discussion and I’m sure RSURS will be the same so go and pick up your copy. Reading probably needs to start around the 20th.
Lynn 😀
