Read Along: An Artificial Night by Seanan McGuire – Week One

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| Week One |

Welcome to the Read Along of An Artificial Night by Seanan McGuire, organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow.

Welcome to the first post in the An Artificial Night Read Along! And what a great start to this third novel in the October Daye series. Tense, exciting and straight into the action, An Artificial Night looks set to be a fantastic read. This week the wonderful Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow is hosting and some excellent opening questions for us to mull over.

If anyone would like to join in, just head on over to the Goodreads group and sign up. Here’s how the schedule looks:

Week 1 (Saturday 9th April)

Chapters 1-7 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 16th April)

Chapters 8-17 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 3 (Saturday 23rd April)

Chapters 18-24 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 4 (Saturday 30th April)

Chapters 25-End – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

There will be spoilers!

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| Week Two Rating |

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| The Questions |

| 1. |

The book opens with Toby at a birthday party for Mitch and Stacy’s youngest child, and follows with an early-morning meet-up with Connor. Both scenes serve to keep previously introduced characters in play and show us how life is progressing for Toby, but in very different ways. What do you make of these scenes after all that’s gone before?

Toby’s attendance of the birthday party just goes to show how much she’s changed since the fishcident. In Rosemary and Rue she was reticent about reconnecting with anyone from her past, terrified that she might hurt them in some way, but here we are a few books later and she’s reforged those friendships she thought lost (well some of them at least!). The scene showed how much she cares for her friends and their children which makes the loss of Gillian from her world all the more poignant.

After A Local Habitation it was clear that Toby was flirting with disaster if she went anywhere near Connor with Raysel on the scene. They both seemed to be yearning for a past that couldn’t be whilst both trapped in a situation where life and death were balanced on a knife edge – a recipe for making some huge mistakes! Luckily, in the opening scenes of An Artificial Night, Toby seems to have joined us readers in the opinion that such a relationship would be a complete disaster and has informed Connor of as much. I’m sure he agrees deep down but it must be incredibly hard for him to be stuck in a loveless marriage with a woman who’s certifiably crazy. How all this will pan out remains to be seen!

| 2. |

As we may have come to expect by now, things rapidly go downhill from there… What are your thoughts right now on this interpretation of the Wild Hunt?

Well doesn’t this all seem very sinister?! Blind Michael and his Wild Hunt are definitely going to up the ante in this third novel and, despite the multitude of murders which spattered the first two novels, this theme seems a lot darker, a lot wilder and a hell of a lot more fae. I’m excited to see how Toby fairs against such an unstoppable foe and I can’t help but feel that no one will leave this story unchanged – certainly not the children who find themselves in Blind Michael’s clutches, and certainly not Toby.

| 3. |

And (because it wouldn’t be a Toby read along if I didn’t celebrate him) Tybalt is back! After what was apparently a lengthy absence… What do you suppose kept Tybalt away after the events in A Local Habitation…?

It’s good to see Tybalt and his dry humour back even if Toby was the only one to feel his absence! Tybalt seemed very suspicious – or perhaps interested – in the powers which Toby seemed to wield in A Local Habitation so, along with his need to settle some Cait Sidhe affairs following Barbara’s death, I imagine that he was looking for answers with regards to Toby. Or perhaps he was just being a typical cat and decided to go wandering off into the wilds for a time… In any case, Toby’s obviously strange blood magic peaked my interest in the second novel, so I cannot wait to see how it develops over the course of this one!

| 4. |

Back to the real drama – Toby (eventually) gets some answers from Luna after a non-starter meeting with Lily. Everyone’s being mysterious, but Luna is acting especially strangely – as is Sylvester, who is openly unhappy with her about something… Any thoughts? Guesses? Suspicions?

This was all very strange! I understand Lily is tied by fae rules – rules which at the moment I cannot fathom – but this scene just served to emphasise her strangeness and otherworldliness. As for Sylvester and Luna, something is definitely not right in Shadowed Hills! But whether that’s Sylvester or Luna or something else entirely I really couldn’t say. But I love our resident Rose Goblin and he seems to trust Luna so I’m sure it will turn out ok… Other than that I’m as much in the wilderness as Toby! Perhaps even more so! I guess we’ll have to read on to find out.

Stay tuned for the next instalment of this Read Along on 16^th April

The Month Ahead: April 2016

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In The Month Ahead, I will be rounding up the books I’m currently reading, the ones I will start this month, and the ones I intend getting my mitts on… if I haven’t already! Expect news and features by the bucketful!

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| Currently Reading |

I was going to remove Emma and NOS4R2 from my currently reading list… just because it’s slightly embarrassing them having been there for so long! But hey, I might actually get around to reading them this April so, for now, they’re here to stay! Added to that we have Terry Pratchett’s The Colour of Magic (because I have read woefully few of his books!), The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories by Ken Liu, and this month’s Read Along, An Artificial Night by Seanan McGuire. So all in all, plenty to be getting on with!

What are you reading at the moment? 

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| April Events |

Turning The Friday Face-Off into a weekly meme proved to be marvellous fun last month, so thank you for reading and participating! So for those of you who fancy joining in or are interested in what’s coming up, here are the upcoming themes for this April:

08th April 2016 | Peace is Poor Reading

A cover which features war

15th April 2016 | Metropolis

A cover which features a city

22nd April 2016 | Dead Men Tell No Tales

A cover which features something or somewhere relating to death

29th April 2016 | Like One, That on a Lonesome Road

A cover which features a road

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An Artificial Night Read Along

Organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 1 (Saturday 9th April)

Chapters 1-7 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 16th April)

Chapters 8-17 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 3 (Saturday 23rd April)

Chapters 18-24 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 4 (Saturday 30th April)

Chapters 25-End – hosted by TBA

With Rosemary and Rue and A Local Habitation already under our belts this year, it was only a matter of time before the next October Daye novel was added to our Read Along shelf. Both the previous two novels have been tremendously good fun and have managed to spark an addiction that I can’t see ending soon. If anyone would like to join in with the third book in the series, An Artificial Night, head on over to the Goodreads group and sign up!

| Synopsis |

Changeling knight in the court of the Duke of Shadowed Hills, October “Toby” Daye has survived numerous challenges that would destroy fae and mortal alike. Now Toby must take on a nightmarish new assignment. Someone is stealing both fae and mortal children – and all signs point to Blind Michael. When the young son of Toby’s closest friends is snatched from their Northern California home, Toby has no choice but to track the villains down, even when there are only three magical roads by which to reach Blind Michael’s realm – home of the legendary Wild Hunt – and no road may be taken more than once. If she cannot escape with all the children before the candle that guides and protects her burns away, Toby herself will fall prey to Blind Michael’s inescapable power.

And it doesn’t bode well for the success of her mission that her own personal Fetch, May Daye – the harbinger of Toby’s own death – has suddenly turned up on her doorstep…

An Artificial Night is the third installment of the highly praised Toby Daye series.

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| Upcoming Events |

|May |

The Between Two Thorns Read Along

Organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 1 (Monday 9th May)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Monday 16th May)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by On Starships and Dragonwings

Week 3 (Monday 23rd May)

Chapters 19-25 – Imyril at OneMore.org

Week 4 (Monday 30th May)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by Lynn’s Books

In May we’re going to be enjoying the first book in The Split Worlds series by Emma Newman, Between Two Thorns. I’d never heard of this series before the Read Along cropped up but I’m certain I’m going to enjoy it. If you’re interested in joining in with this read along, go over to the Goodreads group page and sign up!

| Synopsis |

Something is wrong in Aquae Sulis, Bath’s secret mirror city.

The new season is starting and the Master of Ceremonies is missing. Max, an Arbiter of the Split Worlds Treaty, is assigned with the task of finding him with no one to help but a dislocated soul and a mad sorcerer.

There is a witness but his memories have been bound by magical chains only the enemy can break. A rebellious woman trying to escape her family may prove to be the ally Max needs.

But can she be trusted? And why does she want to give up eternal youth and the life of privilege she’s been born into?

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| April Releases |

And here is a (by no means comprehensive) list of the releases I’m most looking forward to this April  – dates are from UK publishers only (though many will coincide!).

5th April

In the Labyrinth of Drakes

by Marie Brennan

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7th April

Fellside

by M.R. Carey

Burned

by Benedict Jacka

Saint’s Blood

by Sebastien de Castell

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12th April

Masks and Shadows

by Stephanie Burgis

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26th April

Sharp Ends 

by Joe Abercrombie

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| April Goals |

To finish NOS4R2 and Emma before the month is out!

Roll over!

Status: 0 of 2 Complete

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Have you picked up any great books lately? What are your goals for the month ahead? 

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Read Along: A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire – Week Four

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| Week Four |

Welcome to the Read Along of A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire, organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow.

Welcome to the fourth and final post in the A Local Habitation Read Along! This week we had some grand revelations, plenty of action and an exciting finale to this second novel in the October Daye series. And after this enjoyable conclusion, The Bibliosanctum has some very juicy questions for us to answer!

Here’s how the schedule panned out:

Week 1 (Saturday 5th March)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 12th March)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 3 (Saturday 19th March)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 4 (Saturday 26th March)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by The Bibliosanctum

There will be spoilers!

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| Week Four Rating |

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| The Questions |

| 1. |

Alex and Terrie’s secrets are finally revealed. Was that the outcome you were expecting? If not, what theories did you have concerning the two?

Alex and Terrie have been a suspicious pair from the off! I definitely suspected that these two were one and the same person, although I almost wish that this had been more of a surprise to create a grand revelation. But it panned out well all the same!

The revelation of their fae species however remained a complete mystery until it was revealed during this section of the novel. Despite the inherent creepiness of the Gean-Cannah, and the danger presented to changelings and mortals alike, I find that there is something desperately sad and lonely about them. As a changeling with little power to shift between selves, losing that other half of themselves must have been incredibly painful.. after all, who else do they have but themselves? A dying race who cannot let themselves love too much. It’s quite tragic.

| 2. |

We get Toby doing more powerful things with blood during the course of this story aside from gleaning information. What are you thoughts on this? Do you think we’ll start to see her doing more wondrous things over the course of the series?

I really love that we’re seeing a development in power for Toby. From the outset of this series it’s been hammered home that Changelings have severely muted powers and that Toby’s in particular are nothing beyond the ordinary measure for one of her kind. Whilst this makes her an excellent protagonist – who needs perfection anyway – it creates ample possibilities for her development and growth in power, and for her own development into something else – something which belongs in Faerie.

Her blood working with Alex seemed completely natural, driven by instinct alone, which shows she is becoming something more akin to her mother than she at first supposed. Tybalt certainly seemed to be taken aback by her powers, though Toby seemed to brush it aside as being completely ordinary. Whether this kind of power is the norm in Faerie or whether it is something else entirely remains to be seen. I guess we’ll have to wait and find out!

| 3. |

Did you expect Tybalt to actually show up at Tamed Lightning? What’s your take on this “not-friendship” that is developing between Toby and Tybalt? Does learning more about the cats and sensing Tybalt’s own feelings about what has occurred make you feel differently about him or see new aspects to his personality?

At this point in time I’m in no doubt that whenever Toby is in trouble, Tybalt will come running with teeth and claws bared! And I’m certainly enjoying his dry humour! I’m quite happy with the way things are developing between them, however if things do progress further, I hope they retain the witty repartee which marks most of their conversations.

We’re certainly learning a little more about Tybalt and the Cait Sidhe and their role in Faerie politics but, if anything, this just adds another layer of interest and diversity to the Summerlands. His reaction to events at Tamed Lightning seemed perfectly reasonable but I’m sure we’ve not seen the extent of his retribution as it stands. Right now, the Court of Cats still remains something of a mystery.

| 4. |

Despite being misguided, what did you think of the attempt to create something lasting for Faerie after hearing Elliot’s explanation? Is there a way to save and preserve Faerie or is Toby right that maybe its end is near?

Misguided intentions have been the cause of many horrors over history so the justification for what they were doing is definitely off. The only way Faerie will die is if those who live in it allow it to. Cultures and societies change over time so there is little reason as to why Faerie should be any different. Yes it’s good to retain tradition but surely ALH of all people should have appreciated change, adaptability and growth.

No matter the argument, from what we’ve seen so far throughout the novels, Faerie doesn’t look even close to ending. Maybe this theme will be made more apparent in the novels to come – something which I don’t doubt it will – but whatever the case, I’m in no doubt that Toby will be right in the thick of it!

| 5. |

What do you think will happen at Tamed Lightning now that Jan is gone? Do you think April will be able to maintain or do you think things are just getting started between Tamed Lightning and Dreamer’s Glass? Do you think others will be willing to go to Tamed Lightning after this?

Whatever happens now in Tamed Lightning is sure to be exciting! As something entirely new in Faerie and as someone who is only just finding out who and what she is, April is certain to be in for a bumpy and incredibly interesting ride.

The prospect of warfare between Dreamer’s Glass and Tamed Lightning is actually quite intriguing, and gives the potential for some very dramatic storylines. April could be a very strange and unpredictable enemy and Riordan at present is really an unknown quantity.

| 6. |

Overall, what did you think of A Local Habitation? Did you like it more or less than the first book? Are you still excited to see where Toby’s journey leads? Any favorite parts? Least favourites? Gush as much or as little as you want.

I really enjoyed A Local Habitation. At about the Week Two point I was a little worried; Toby’s voice wasn’t working for me, we’d been transported to a completely different location and something about the storyline just wasn’t resonating with me. However, once the action kicked in and the bodies started piling up, I found myself getting lost in the storyline and really began enjoying it. Phew!

I absolutely loved the development of Toby and Quentin’s relationship, something which remained amusing, endearing and readable throughout. Quentin has grown as a character and A Local Habitation certainly solidifies his place in these novels. A definite highlight throughout! I was similarly glad to see Tybalt sauntering back into the storyline leaving me in high hopes of future Cait Sidhe action!

However, the main highlight (or new addition) of A Local Habitation would have to be April. She is a fascinating, different and thoroughly entertaining character who comes across as something unique in the realms of urban fantasy. From her penchant for bunnies, her pixelated tears and her strange digital humour, and despite her sad role during the main storyline, April is a fantastic character who leaps off the page. I definitely look forward to seeing more of her in future storylines!

As for Toby, I cannot wait to find out what happens next! Tybalt – will she won’t she? Connor?! Raysel?!!! And that’s just the relationships! I also can’t wait to find out more about her mother and her developing powers! Bring on book three!

Join us this April for a Read Along of the third October Daye novel, An Artificial Night

Read Along: A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire – Week Three

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| Week Three |

Welcome to the Read Along of A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire, organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow.

Welcome to the third post in the A Local Habitation Read Along! This week’s section has definitely turned the book around and I’m now completely absorbed! And I’m hosting! Scroll down for the Week Three questions!

If anyone would like to join in, just head on over to the Goodreads group and sign up. Here’s how the schedule looks:

Week 1 (Saturday 5th March)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 12th March)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 3 (Saturday 19th March)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 4 (Saturday 26th March)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by The Bibliosanctum

There will be spoilers!

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| Week Three Rating |

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| The Questions |

| 1. |

First things first, Toby braved the likelihood of being eaten alive by summoning the night-haunts! What are your impressions of this strange race of fae? And how do you think Toby’s relationship with the Luidaeg will change now that her final question has been asked?

I love the night-haunts! They definitely surpassed my expectations and were completely different to what I had envisaged. They manage to remain super creepy, completely alien and undeniably sinister but, despite their penchant for snacking on the deceased, actually came across as quite endearing. However, being confronted with something of a ghost, no matter how pocket sized, would be more than a little disconcerting for anyone. Toby seems to hold up pretty well though and lived to tell (almost all of) the tale, despite having to sacrifice her poor mandrake mini-me. I’m definitely looking forward to their return, even if they do give off something like a creepy doll vibe!

As for the Luidaeg… I loved the hints at the start of the book which seemed to confirm some form of friendship had sprung up between them and, because the Luidaeg is clearly ridiculously awesome, would love to see this friendship continue to grow. Whilst I agree she should still be something of a threat – I’d hate to miss out on some of the more sinister aspects of the Luidaeg – it seems as though they’re both good for each other and are more than likely to supply a steady ream of entertaining, snarky dialogue.

| 2. |

The storyline has really kicked off with another death to add to the body count and yet another attempt on Toby’s life. How did you feel about this latest murder? Are you suspicious of anyone in particular or seeing any patterns regarding motivations?

As soon as January mentioned a secret I knew she was a goner! But up until that point I really wouldn’t have expected it – she seemed like an integral part of the storyline! It actually made me quite sad when they found her body, especially considering the violence of her death and April’s subsequent reaction. But at the moment I really couldn’t say who I’m most suspicious of! Alex and Terrie seem to be put up as the most likely candidates but that’s all a little bit too obvious… so right now I’m in as much of the dark as I was last week! We know something was going on at ALH before the deaths so my suspicions are still turned on the other employees, but as for who it might be… no clue!

| 3. |

Before her untimely demise, January was on the verge of revealing a secret regarding ALH and a mysterious project it was running. Do you have any suspicions on what this might be?

I have absolutely no idea! A project worth killing over? It must be pretty huge. Corporate espionage? Court politics and intrigue? Single-minded jealousy? It could be anything! I’m very excited to find out though.

| 4. |

April is a fascinating and amusing character to read about, how do you think she’ll cope now she no longer has her adoptive mother? Can you see her becoming part of another court or as an addition to Toby’s life?

The more I see of April, the more I love her! She’s very entertaining, especially when attempting to describe human actions and reactions, and as a character remains fascinating throughout. I’m almost certain Toby wouldn’t know what to do with her but I can definitely see her becoming a part of Shadowed Hills, and the friendship she seems to have sparked up with Quentin definitely bodes well for the future. In any case, I love having a Dryad hooked up to the network! I only hope ALH won’t be the last we see of her!

| 5. |

In this section of the novel a little more is revealed about one half of our suspicious siblings, Alex and Terrie. Whilst Alex gets very handsy and a bit hypnocreep with Toby, Terrie is almost non-existent! What are your thoughts on this pair? Was Toby’s reaction justified? And are you as suspicious of at least one half of this pairing as Toby?!

I still think they’re the same person! However, although they both seem ridiculously suspicious and highly creepy, I still can’t see either of them as being the murderer(s) at large! I think their problems are more to do with whatever it is they are and the fact they seem determined to keep this a secret. And as for Alex’s attempt to get it on with Toby, she was completely justified in her reaction! He might not be able to help what he is but that just makes it more important to be upfront about it in the first place. Toby was completely justified – I’m just glad she realised something was wrong!

| 6. |

Alex might not be able to turn off the seduction but in this section we see the return of both Connor and Tybalt. What do you think of Connor and his obviously complicated relationship with both Toby and Raysel? Do you think they have a future? Or is Tybalt too much of an infuriating temptation? Or more to the point, will either of them be of any use during the investigation? Thoughts please!

I can’t help but like Connor – he’s just so very likeable! Rather than being of use during the investigation though, I can certainly see him getting himself into trouble! Toby will more than likely have to save his ass on more than one occasion….but no doubt he’ll surprise me by doing something heroic that saves the day! As for their relationship – my, my, it is complex! Raysel is definitely not a woman to cross! Connor seems like such a good guy though that I hope he and Toby can remain friends if nothing else.

And then there’s Tybalt! “Why are you so concerned with what becomes of this ‘Quentin’? Is he a new swain of yours?” Hah! I’m so happy to see him over at ALH and he will definitely be handy in any upcoming struggle. I pretty much love everything he says so I’m definitely up for him sweeping Toby off her feet… or more likely sweeping them out from under her!

Stay tuned for the final instalment of this Read Along on 26^th March

Read Along: A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire – Week Two

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| Week Two |

Welcome to the Read Along of A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire, organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow.

Welcome to the second post in the A Local Habitation Read Along! Despite some minor teething issues, so far, so good! The story is really starting to kick into the action and presents a whole heap of mysterious happenings and suspicious characters to rattle your cage. This week the lovely Lynn of Lynn’s Books is hosting and has many a juicy question to explore!

If anyone would like to join in, just head on over to the Goodreads group and sign up. Here’s how the schedule looks:

Week 1 (Saturday 5th March)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 12th March)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 3 (Saturday 19th March)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 4 (Saturday 26th March)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by The Bibliosanctum

There will be spoilers!

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| Week Two Rating |

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| The Questions |

| 1. |

ALH is a very odd place – what do you make of it so far and it’s inhabitants? It has a different feel to the last book doesn’t it?

A Local Habitation is most definitely another creature when compared to its predecessor. The combination of magic and technology, as well as a location removed from the city, give it an altogether different feel. Much like the prologue in Rosemary and Rue, there have been moments up to this point where I wasn’t feeling the storyline and Toby’s voice failed to connect with me on some levels. This is partially due to the ‘I’m Batman, I’m not a hero, this is just what I do’ vibe that she’s currently giving off – call me British but I much prefer the self-loathing.

However, not all is doom and gloom! There have been some corking moments thus far and as the drama and tension increase so too do my levels of excitement and intrigue. The line of suspicion which is carried through the narrative builds a tense atmosphere and the labyrinthine ALH makes for a very interesting location. I also love my fair share of weird and wonderful characters so the strangeness and diversity of the inhabitants makes for fascinating reading and adds yet another dimension to the populace of the Summerlands. Here’s hoping by the next section I’ll be so engrossed in the storyline that the negatives are no longer noticeable.

| 2. |

There is certainly a lot going on at ALH – different dynamics, what are your feelings on the people you’ve met. Anything at all about those remaining and those who have died.

My, my, they are a varied bunch aren’t they. First of all I’m really pleased to see Quentin have more of a role in this novel. The dynamic between him and Toby is both interesting and amusing, and having a partner in crime ( or un-crime?) gives a whole different flavour to A Local Habitation. The residents of ALH are a mixed and colourful lot, both dead and alive. Half-truths abound and the narrative practically brims with all those secrets bubbling beneath the surface. This section of the novel definitely goes some way to decrease suspicion in certain areas but – hello paranoia! – I’m not entirely convinced!

Last week I suspected that Alex and Terrie might be one and the same person but dismissed it as perhaps a silly and somewhat perverse suggestion. However this week I am utterly convinced that they are. Their never crossing paths, highly suspicious behaviour and creepy allure all combine to make a pair – or one – weird and slightly disturbing fae. However, January seems much more innocent in this section of the novel – just a girl in over her head – and April similarly seems a lot less creepy, despite her surprise appearances throughout (although she’s still on my radar!). Elliot seems to be losing control in all the chaos and Gordon has an interesting introduction. A snarky and bad tempered fae, she brings plenty of wit to the storyline and I quite enjoy her crotchety Coblynau ways.

As for the dead, Barbara’s double dealing seems a little obvious at this point so perhaps there is something more going on there. I find the thought of carrying about a Selkie skin highly disturbing (or any flayed skin to be honest), and the obvious fact that at least one of them should have been able to hold their own or fight back against whatever is hunting them makes for a confusing, exciting and tense situation.

| 3. |

The phone call with Tybalt. I was curious about his comment about Riordan and what do you think he intends to do next? We’re learning a little bit more about the Cat Sidhe – what do you think Tybalt’s next move will be?

Here kitty, kitty. Poor Tybalt and his bruised ego – Toby sure knows how to rile him up – even if his concern for her likes to sneak through even his most snarky and sarcastic comments. Clearly Toby is keeping him grounded; can’t let all that power go to his head can we now.

I love how the Cait Sidhe are portrayed and it’s always wonderful to learn more about fae politics and motivations.  It’s interesting to see how far removed they are from the other fae but it certainly begs the question as to why Barbara would work for Riordan in the first place. As for what Tybalt will do as a result of it… well something tells me that he’s unlikely to leave Toby – or his jacket –  defenceless.

| 4. |

Barbara – what do you make of the new evidence that has come to light with her dealings with the Duchess of Dreamer’s Glass? What is she up to?

As raised in the previous point, it really does seem odd for a Cait Sidhe to become involved with the political games of other fae courts so, unless she was being framed, blackmailed or manipulated, I really couldn’t say what she was up to before her untimely demise! I’m particularly intrigued by Dreamer’s Glass and the Duchess though, both of which are a complete mystery to me! 

| 5. |

It looks like Toby is going to try and summon the Night Haunts? Any thoughts on how this will go and speculation about the Night Haunts?

I’ve been wondering about the Night Haunts ever since the first novel so I can’t wait for this side of the storyline. They conjure such dark and creepy imagery – what exactly do they do with the bodies? Eat them? And how do they go about making the replacement mannequins? Magic alone? – but I almost feel that the revelation of what they actually are will come as a complete surprise. In fact I think I’d be a little disappointed if they were the obvious.

| 6. |

Any guesses so far as to what’s going on?

I’m still completely in the dark. I definitely suspect Alex and Terrie of being the same person and I’m sure we’re not getting the full story when it comes to Barbara but other than that it’s just wild stabs in the dark… exactly something which Toby should be avoiding!

Stay tuned for the next instalment of this Read Along on 19^th March

The Month Ahead: March 2016

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In The Month Ahead, I will be rounding up the books I am currently reading, the ones I will start this month, and the ones I intend getting my mitts on… if I haven’t already! I will also be sharing any news about features or posts on Books by Proxy, and anything in the book world that has me all excited!

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| Currently Reading |

Having not even picked up NOS4R2 or Emma (if only I could find her!) for a considerable amount of time, I still find that I’m quite determined to get them off the currently reading pile! So here they shall remain as yet another reminder of my incomplete monthly goals. I’m sure they’ll magically find themselves read at some point in say… the next year or so. Add to that another three books on the currently reading pile and I’ve already a fair amount to get through! 

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| March Events |

A Local Habitation Read Along

Organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 1 (Saturday 5th March)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 12th March)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 3 (Saturday 19th March)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 4 (Saturday 26th March)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by The Bibliosanctum

Following the Read Along for Rosemary and Rue, which turned out to be a wonderful start to this urban fantasy series, we’re forging ahead in March with a Read Along of the second October Daye novel, A Local Habitation. After the success of the first book, I have high hopes for the second so if you would like to join in, go over to Goodreads and sign up!

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Blog Tour: Girl Waits With Gun by Amy Stewart

Review scheduled for 09th March 2016

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March into Middle Earth

Hosted by Rinn Reads, March into Middle Earth is a celebration of all things Tolkien. Expect many a Middle Earth related post!

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| Upcoming Events |

|May |

The Between Two Thorns Read Along

Organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 1 (Monday 9th May)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Monday 16th May)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by On Starships and Dragonwings

Week 3 (Monday 23rd May)

Chapters 19-25 – Imyril at OneMore.org

Week 4 (Monday 30th May)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by Lynn’s Books

In May we’re going to be enjoying the first book in The Split Worlds series by Emma Newman, Between Two Thorns. I’d never heard of this series before the Read Along cropped up but I’m certain I’m going to enjoy it. If you’re interested in joining in with this read along, go over to the Goodreads group page and sign up!

| Synopsis |

Something is wrong in Aquae Sulis, Bath’s secret mirror city.

The new season is starting and the Master of Ceremonies is missing. Max, an Arbiter of the Split Worlds Treaty, is assigned with the task of finding him with no one to help but a dislocated soul and a mad sorcerer.

There is a witness but his memories have been bound by magical chains only the enemy can break. A rebellious woman trying to escape her family may prove to be the ally Max needs.

But can she be trusted? And why does she want to give up eternal youth and the life of privilege she’s been born into?

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| March Goals |

To finish NOS4R2 and Emma before the month is out!

Yes, yes another roll over!

Status: 0 of 2 Complete

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Have you picked up any great books lately? What are your goals for the month ahead? 

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Read Along: A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire – Week One

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| Week One |

Welcome to the Read Along of A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire, organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow.

Welcome to the first post in the A Local Habitation Read Along! After the success of Rosemary and Rue, the first book in the October Daye series,  I couldn’t wait to get stuck into the second. Luckily for me, Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow (after very little coercing) decided to organise a read along for the second novel! So here we are getting sucked back into the strange world of  October Daye with this first week of questions.

If anyone would like to join in, just head on over to the Goodreads group and sign up. Here’s how the schedule looks:

Week 1 (Saturday 5th March)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 12th March)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by Lynn’s Books

Week 3 (Saturday 19th March)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by Books by Proxy (me!)

Week 4 (Saturday 26th March)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by The Bibliosanctum

There will be spoilers!

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| Week One Rating |

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| The Questions |

| 1. |

Some familiar faces are back for book 2 (hi Tybalt!), but we don’t waste much time getting to meet some new people, most notably Sylvester Torquill’s niece, January, who is … less than upfront with Toby at first meeting. What do you think of January so far?

Nice kitty. So glad to see Tybalt back in those opening scenes – no doubt he’ll sweep back in to reclaim his jacket at any moment! (Or at least I hope he does because more Tybalt in the storyline can only be a good thing, right?)

January makes an interesting and somewhat conflicted impression. In some ways she seems sweet, a little suspicious of Toby, but just a girl in over her head and swiftly losing control. On the other hand she seems to be making a whole heap of mistakes, is definitely hiding more than she’s revealing, and is acting very strangely to an honest offer of help from her uncle. All is definitely not well in Tamed Lightning! 

| 2. |

Another new face is April, who’s got a rather unique back story according to Alex. What do you make of her so far, and what do you think of the merging of magic and technology that seems set to be the underlying theme in this book?

April is an excellent addition to the storyline! I love the fact they have a Dryad living in a data information tree and it creates so many potential possibilities. However, although April’s story is a sad one, something about a Dryad infiltrating their systems has me more than a little suspicious. Of course she could be completely innocent but right now there are some strange happenings which definitely have me looking sideways at April.

The merging of magic and technology also presents a really interesting crossover when it comes to urban fantasy. In most of the novels I’ve read magic and technology outright refuse to mix so it’s quite refreshing to get a different take on it. The storyline is also completely different to what I was expecting and has definitely opened with a very intriguing and suspicious plot! I can’t wait to see how this modern magical mash-up plays out!

| 3. |

Do any of the rest of the new faces stand out to you here? If so, who and why?

Well hello Elliot. Would you like to come to my house at say 6am each morning and save me a whole heap of time? A bath-spirit would certainly be useful! I love meeting new and interesting fae and the Bannick are no exception! A very amusing and cleanly addition to the storyline and perfect for cleaning up…. (dramatic pause) murders?!!

Alex and Terrie, the brother and sister duo who make the opposite sex practically foam at the mouth, are very interesting! I imagine they’ll make merry hell in the storyline and can’t wait to see how Toby reacts when she discovers that something is not quite right with the pair. Her past experience with men tells me this is one girl who isn’t going to be happy about a magical seduction!

| 4. |

We get some explanation of the political situation where Tamed Lightning is concerned, and by the end of this section we’ve got a body on the ground at ALH Computing… Got any initial thoughts/suspicions/things you still want to know?

Everything and anything is possible at the moment! I absolutely love the crossover with magic and technology and something tells me that this could be the root of all the problems in Tamed Lightning. Beyond there being a Dryad living in the system, I really couldn’t say who I’m most suspicious of – everyone is a suspect! I just can’t wait to keep reading.

Stay tuned for the next instalment of this Read Along on 12^th March

Review: The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers

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The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet

Book One of the Wayfarers series

by Becky Chambers

Science Fiction | 519 Pages | Published by Hodder & Stoughton in 2015

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| Rating |

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November’s Sci-Fi Month Read Along at the end of 2015 turned out to be one of the highlights of my reading year. The Long Way to Small, Angry Planet is a wonderful, character driven, space opera which impresses with its ready wit and skilfully developed cast. Chambers draws you into the brilliant, exhausting, exciting and often hectic life aboard the Wayfarer and keeps you hooked to the very end. With countless alien species, clashing cultures and incredibly strange customs, this light-hearted but utterly absorbing novel presents a universe I would wish to return to time and again, and with plans for another Wayfarers novel in the near(ish) future it looks like the prospect is entirely likely.

When Rosemary Harper joins the crew of the Wayfarer, she isn’t expecting much. The Wayfarer, a patched-up ship that’s seen better days, offers her everything she could possibly want: a small, quiet spot to call home for a while, adventure in far-off corners of the galaxy, and distance from her troubled past.

But Rosemary gets more than she bargained for with the Wayfarer. The crew is a mishmash of species and personalities, from Sissix, the friendly reptillian pilot, to Kizzy and Jenks, the constantly sparring engineers who keep the ship running. Life on board is chaotic, but more or less peaceful – exactly what Rosemary wants.

Until the crew are offered the job of a lifetime: the chance to build a hyperspace tunnel to a distant planet. They’ll earn enough money to live comfortably for years… if they survive the long trip through war-torn interstellar space without endangering any of the fragile alliances that keep the galaxy peaceful.

But Rosemary isn’t the only person on board with secrets to hide, and the crew will soon discover that space may be vast, but spaceships are very small indeed.

Rosemary Harper joins the mismatched and culturally diverse crew of the Wayfarer, a tunnelling ship which creates hyperspace links between areas of the universe, at the moment a job which sounds too good to be true lands itself on their doorstep. Tasked with creating a tunnel linking the Galactic Commons controlled area with the war-torn galactic core where the dangerous Toremi reside, the crew of the Wayfarer embark on a long, sprawling and dangerous journey across the galaxy – a galaxy which a multitude of weird and wonderful, friendly and darn-right dangerous species call home. This could mean gold, riches, glory, and a chance of a lifetime for the crew of the Wayfarer. But it could also mean death. One thing’s for certain though – life aboard the Wayfarer is about to get much more interesting.This is a novel which is driven by its characters, one which conjures an instant rapport with the crew and one which absorbs you into the lives of the protagonists. Every character is relevant, every single one unique and all are, without a doubt, fascinating. From Rosemary, Ashby to Sissix, to Kizzy, Jenks and Lovelace, every character has a wonderful back-story with a rich and vibrant history which make for instantly addictive reading. The cacophony of cultures aboard ship should be a recipe for chaos, but they all pull together and show what it means to be a family – albeit a very strange one – in a book where the characters provide an unending source of entertainment, enjoyment and thought-provoking dynamics.

Not only do the characters drive the plot of The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet, they also contribute heavily to the world – or universe – building. The diversity brought about by the myriad of species introduced throughout the novel, and their unique customs and traditions, bring a sense of vibrancy to the storyline and create a cultural backdrop which adds weight and depth to the universe whilst directly contributing to both character dynamics and their continual growth over the course of the narrative.

With the introduction of alien – and AI – species at every opportunity, this is a novel which touches on many human truths; what does it means to be different in our own world? What does it mean to be human? The Long Way to a Small, Angry planet weaves a complex universe which toys with sympathy and empathy whilst delighting in simultaneously fuelling undeniable adoration and considerable dislike for the diverse range of characters throughout. This may be a lighthearted novel but it certainly doesn’t shy away from making you think and is all the better for it.

The development of humanity and the divisions created through history are at all times amusing whilst resonating with a sense of our own history. There is a wonderful contrast between the disharmony of human and alien history and how politics has shaped each of these races, with this clash of cultures providing the driving force behind the conflict throughout the novel. Alongside the strain of political relationships, the comradeship shown between distinctly different species aboard the Wayfarer, and their interactions with those they meet on their journey, creates a distinct picture of opposing civilisations and societies which adds a sense of realism – and a great deal of excitement – to the universe.

Whilst I would have preferred the ‘real’ introduction to the Toremi, the main threat of the novel, to have occurred much sooner in the narrative, and wish more time had been spent mapping out their personal and political motivations, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet remains a wonderful science fiction adventure which is at all times exciting, retains its sense of humour throughout, and leaves you with some thought-provoking questions. Becky Chambers’ obvious skill as an author is showcased by her effortlessly engaging writing, her wonderful character development and a truly absorbing storyline. This really is a book that everyone should read.

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is an extremely enjoyable read which I would have been happy to read in weekly instalments for an entire year. The character dynamics and relationships aboard the Wayfarer make for a uniquely absorbing read which should appeal to a wide audience of science fiction newbies and veterans alike. I await the next Wayfarers novel with great anticipation!

Amazon | The Book Depository | Goodreads

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The Month Ahead: February 2016

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In The Month Ahead, I will be rounding up the books I am currently reading, the ones I will start this month, and the ones I intend getting my mitts on… if I haven’t already! I will also be sharing any news about features or posts on Books by Proxy, and anything in the book world that has me all excited!

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| Currently Reading |

February promises to be a fantastic month of reading with two amazing books, The Tiger and the Wolf by Adrian Tchaikovsky and The Palace Job by Patrick Weekes, already under my belt (reviews to come!). NOSR2 and Emma are still on the currently reading pile and unfortunately Emma, it its teeny tiny format, has been missing since Christmas! To be located under a monstrous pile of books I assume.

The Copper Promise by Jen Williams and Promise of Blood by Brian McClellan have also made it to the top of my reading pile and have both got off to a brilliant start. I’m finding it increasingly hard to leave one to go to the other and fully expect these two books to become firm favourites. Happy February everyone!

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| Upcoming Events |

I’ve not hopped onto any events yet for February – it will be a month of catching up I think! However, there are a few Read Alongs coming up over the next few months so I’ll announce them now in case anyone is interested in joining in. If you want to find out more just follow the links in title to take you to the Goodreads group page.

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| March |

A Local Habitation Read Along

Organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 1 (Saturday 5th March)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Saturday 12th March)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by TBA

Week 3 (Saturday 19th March)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by TBA

Week 4 (Saturday 26th March)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by TBA

Following the Read Along for Rosemary and Rue, which turned out to be a wonderful start to this urban fantasy series, we’re forging ahead in March with a Read Along of the second October Daye novel, A Local Habitation. After the success of the first book, I have high hopes for the second so if you would like to join in, go over to Goodreads and sign up!

| Synopsis |

October “Toby” Daye is a changeling, the daughter of Amandine of the fae and a mortal man. Like her mother, she is gifted in blood magic, able to read what has happened to a person through a mere taste of blood. Toby is the only changeling who has earned knighthood, and she re-earns that position every day, undertaking assignments for her liege, Sylvester, the Duke of the Shadowed Hills.

Now Sylvester has asked her to go to the County of Tamed Lightning—otherwise known as Fremont, CA—to make sure that all is well with his niece, Countess January O’Leary, whom he has not been able to contact. It seems like a simple enough assignment—but when dealing with the realm of Faerie nothing is ever as simple as it seems. Toby soon discovers that someone has begun murdering people close to January, whose domain is a buffer between Sylvester’s realm and a scheming rival duchy. If Toby can’t find the killer soon, she may well become the next victim.

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| May |

The Between Two Thorns Read Along

Organised by Lisa at Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 1 (Monday 9th May)

Chapters 1-9 – hosted by Over the Effing Rainbow

Week 2 (Monday 16th May)

Chapters 10-18 – hosted by TBA

Week 3 (Monday 23rd May)

Chapters 19-25 – hosted by TBA

Week 4 (Monday 30th May)

Chapters 26-End – hosted by TBA

In May we’re going to be enjoying the first book in The Split Worlds series by Emma Newman, Between Two Thorns. I’d never heard of this series before the Read Along cropped up but I’m certain I’m going to enjoy it. If you’re interested in joining in with this read along, go over to the Goodreads group page and sign up!

| Synopsis |

Something is wrong in Aquae Sulis, Bath’s secret mirror city.

The new season is starting and the Master of Ceremonies is missing. Max, an Arbiter of the Split Worlds Treaty, is assigned with the task of finding him with no one to help but a dislocated soul and a mad sorcerer.

There is a witness but his memories have been bound by magical chains only the enemy can break. A rebellious woman trying to escape her family may prove to be the ally Max needs.

But can she be trusted? And why does she want to give up eternal youth and the life of privilege she’s been born into?

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| February Goals |

To finish NOS4R2 and Emma before the month is out!

Status: 0 of 2 Complete

And to really challenge myself to be organised…

To post every day in February

Status: 6 of 29 days Complete

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Have you picked up any great books lately or read any of those mentioned above? What are your goals for the month ahead? 

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