Book-a-book of the Month Club discussion

Discuss the story!

So, this is not really a complaint or anything - just an observation really and I'm wondering if this stood out a lot to anyone else. Often, when female characters are discussed it seems a bit over the top - i.e. "Oh, did you feel her up?", "Is she the sort that stirs your lower parts?" and similar phrases. Many of these are from Fermin, so perhaps they are just for his characterization. But, I was wondering if the author was attempting to reflect how women were viewed in Spain during this time period? It tends to come across as somewhat amusing, so perhaps it is for comedic affect as well, but it sticks out enough that it almost seems excessive and not entirely necessary.

It would be one thing if it was only one character and that characters was definitely a raging pervert, but I know that more than just Fermin talks like this and they do not seem like bad guys.

I'm trying to think which other characters made comments like that. With Fermin it definitely was part of his character since he was so into women. Lol! But instead of being offensive, it came off sort of like......that's just Fermin being Fermin. Lol! Overall I do kinda feel it's also part of the era and just men, in general? Lol! :)

Josen wrote: "I'm trying to think which other characters made comments like that."

Yeah - I am trying to remember - and maybe it just seemed like others were saying stuff like that (I know, I know . . . I should have examples to prove my point. I am sure my past English teachers would be disappointed with me). But, since I am still reading, if I see anything I will be sure to site it!

There is some serious Jerry Springer plot twisting going on here. Or maybe Maurey Povich. I can't say more without spoiling - but we definitely have a soap opera going on!

The story just keeps on going and going doesn't it? It's crazy!

Went to the library tonight, and someone must have grabbed this today before I got to it. I was super excited to get it, and cried a little when it wasn't there. That last part may or may not be true.

I mentioned this in my status today - this one has so many unexpected twists, if they make a movie, M. Night Shyamalan will have to direct.

Justin wrote: "Went to the library tonight, and someone must have grabbed this today before I got to it. I was super excited to get it, and cried a little when it wasn't there. That last part may or may not be true."

Lol!! Hmmm........so there's only one library in your city?? ;)

Matthew wrote: "I mentioned this in my status today - this one has so many unexpected twists, if they make a movie, M. Night Shyamalan will have to direct."

It's neverending isn't it? But it's very interesting how it all comes together.

Soooo.......what'd y'all think? :)

I really loved this book, it reminded me of Louis de Bernières' Latin American Trilogy. The combination of wonderful, warm, delightful characters (and the cold, frightening ones too) and drama and humour just pulled me into Carlos Ruiz Zafón's world. I love Barcelona and now, if I ever visit there again, I will see it in a whole new light, cognisant of the history behind it. The way the plot unfolds slowly with skilful use of suspense is incredible. I'm a fan in case you were wondering.

It was awesome! So much symbolism! So much good vs evil! So many twists and turns!

Yay! I'm glad you guys liked it. :) Even though it was filled to the brim with characters and storyline I just thought it was so intriguing I kept wanting to turn the pages and read on. I've recommended this to so many people.

It was amazing!!! It had everything: love, passion, action, intrigue, horror, suspense...The characters were so well defined...ahhh I couldn't be more satisficed! It reminded me in some parts 'One hundred years of Solitude' by Gabriel García Márquez. The book is a complete 5. Which one is gonna be the next?

Yes it reminded me of Marquez too but I've only read his Love in the Time of Cholera. Loved this book!

Glad everyone is enjoying this one so much - it has been a pleasant surprise!

I really enjoyed this book. Great story that had so many elements to it.

I commend the translator- I think they did a fabulous job. I'm curious how it reads in Spanish.

I just thought of something... Did we ever find out why there were so many crucifixes in Carax's old room in that apartment? Not sure if I missed a line somewhere in the book to explain that, or if I have just forgotten the reason in the myriad of details in the book.

I believe, if I remember correctly, his father thought he was evil. But I would have to look back and try and find that to be sure (so don't quote me on that!)