Creative Reviews Book Club discussion

As soon as people have started finishing up the book for this month, let get some conversation going right here!!

I just got going on it today. On chapter 2 and it's pretty interesting so far...I'll try to get on the ball and keep reading. Can we post any general feedback as we go, like how far along we are, or something like, "There's an unexpected twist!"

You can post anytime you want in here, but we forewarned, the conversation may have something in it about a place that you haven't read yet. So read quickly!

LOL

I personally want to ask anyone who has finished the book yet what they thought about the games? Too much of it? Not enough? I loved the games and I thought it could have had a bit more detail to them.

Amy wrote: "I personally want to ask anyone who has finished the book yet what they thought about the games? Too much of it? Not enough? I loved the games and I thought it could have had a bit more detail t..."

Someone said "You leave 'em wanting more". Would more detail of the games have distracted from the main story line?

I personally don't think so, but I am also one of the people who really wanted to hear more about the quidditch matches in Harry Potter.

I think it would have given some of the other characters a chance to have gotten to be a bit better known as well. I like the action and the variety of the things that were done in the games.

Amy wrote: "I personally don't think so, but I am also one of the people who really wanted to hear more about the quidditch matches in Harry Potter.

I think it would have given some of the other characters ..."

Sorry about that, Amy. I would have liked to write more about the games, and there were a couple of things I wanted to add, such as "sky sailing", but the Muse sitting on my shoulder told me to get a move on. Maybe in a prequel?

UMMM...you know I'm all about as much as I can get in these books! As long as I get to see them...oh soon...I'll be fine!

I do want to ask you though, one thing that I thought I understood, but wasn't really sure...I understand the Empire takes the hostages to teach them about the Empire and to use them as ambassadors later on, so why do the other kingdoms not want to send them? And why are they held under such strict conditions?

(And if you keep answering my questions, It's possible I'll try to keep you here all night! LOL)

Amy wrote: "UMMM...you know I'm all about as much as I can get in these books! As long as I get to see them...oh soon...I'll be fine!

I do want to ask you though, one thing that I thought I understood, but w..."

Hostages (as you said) are, firstly, a means of control and, secondly, a way (hopefully) of the Empire eventually having people in high places favourable to them. The underlings don't like them, probably for similar reasons. Some people who are conquered and/or feel they're being controlled don't appreciate it.

The conditions were strict in the Temple of Bel because they were trying to subvert the system to spread their "gospel". Others were not so strict, but there seemed to be some resentment among the hostages, nonetheless. No doubt they'd have preferred to be among their own people -- but not all children were sent as hostages, e.g. Myrine and the twins, among others.

Mysti wrote: "I just got going on it today. On chapter 2 and it's pretty interesting so far...I'll try to get on the ball and keep reading. Can we post any general feedback as we go, like how far along we are, ..."

Feel free, Mysti. I'll try to answer as best I can.

Phil wrote: "Amy wrote: "UMMM...you know I'm all about as much as I can get in these books! As long as I get to see them...oh soon...I'll be fine!

I do want to ask you though, one thing that I thought I under..."


That was going to be one of my other questions, why were some forced to be there as hostages, while others came of their own free will? Was it because relations with the other kingdoms were more favorable?

Amy wrote: "Phil wrote: "Amy wrote: "UMMM...you know I'm all about as much as I can get in these books! As long as I get to see them...oh soon...I'll be fine!

I do want to ask you though, one thing that I th..."

People will often do things willingly that they would be reluctant to do if they felt under compulsion.

Even the Empire had allies, such as the Amazons, and other states could see the benefit of maintaining friendly relations with a superior nation. Sending their children to be educated in the most powerful state in the region might have advantages.

The Empire may have been something of an international bully but others who, though aware, did not feel the weight of their power might believe there were advantages in maintaining good relations -- even if it just reduced the likelihood of invasion.

The story was not written from the point of view of an ally, but of a nation that resented feeling oppressed and powerless.

Phil wrote: "Amy wrote: "Phil wrote: "Amy wrote: "UMMM...you know I'm all about as much as I can get in these books! As long as I get to see them...oh soon...I'll be fine!

I do want to ask you though, one thi..."

I find it weird that they are so trusting of Erech....and the block he has in his mind. Also I'm waiting to see what is in store with his twin who seems to feel everything that has happened. And did I read it wrong in seeing that they have touched on homosexuality with the young boys in the book? I must point out I love the fact that they showed the voice change a clear sign that the kids are growing and even Erech noticed the change in the curves of the girls yet still feels too young to appreciate.

I think the Temple of One was so trusting of Erech because they knew he has a greater purpose. So they extended out privileges they would not have given out to anyone else. Ai'Ram was also able to keep a closer eye on him and report to the elders.

They did touch a bit on rape in the book yes. That is one of the only reasons I think this book should not be read by a young YA group, but a bit older.

Amy wrote: "I think the Temple of One was so trusting of Erech because they knew he has a greater purpose. So they extended out privileges they would not have given out to anyone else. Ai'Ram was also able t..."

I totally agree that some of the content is not for the younger teens, but it does touch into the adolescent years. I'm still a bit perturbed by the modernization of the Temple of One, as compared to the surrounding tribes. I'm hoping they touch more on the Temple Bel, because I still don't understand their purpose in the story.

Ivy wrote: "Amy wrote: "I think the Temple of One was so trusting of Erech because they knew he has a greater purpose. So they extended out privileges they would not have given out to anyone else. Ai'Ram was..."

Ivy wrote: "Amy wrote: "I think the Temple of One was so trusting of Erech because they knew he has a greater purpose. So they extended out privileges they would not have given out to anyone else. Ai'Ram was..."

Thanks for your comments, Ivy. I have to agree the book was not intended for children or early teens, but those approaching adulthood, or adults who have some knowledge of the fact that life is (was?) not as rosy as children tend to believe.

Your comment on the "modernization of the Temple of One" intrigues me. The ideas in the story are as ancient as they might be thought modern. The Temple of One was not intended to be "modern" in any particular sense, simply different.

Having said that, the most rewarding thing about writing is that there are so many more ways of interpreting a story than the writer foresaw or intended. It's as much an eye-opener for me as it is for readers.

Be assured, without giving anything away, that there will be more about the Temple of Bel. Meanwhile, enjoy!

I have greatly enjoyed this book...so much so I was rather upset by the ending! It was so fast I thought I was missing pages and was going to demand the rest!
With that being said, I can't wait to read the next book. I am still wondering about the connection with his twin thru dreams. How is it that one can see and know the working of the other yet not vice versa. Also what is behind the earthquakes and tremors that seem to affect the people physically and mentally? Oh man I need the next book too many unanswer questions.
And is Erech that blind not to see the love show by his first true friend? I so do not like his lack of concern to write and find out bout his son. It made me think of the youth of today...so involved with their self no time to think of others.

You're very perceptive, Ivy.

Like a lot of today's youth (and probably of every generation) Erech tends to live for the moment. That doesn't mean he can't feel emotion, but may have difficulty expressing it or understanding it in others. As we'd say in this country, he's "slow on the uptake". I'm sure you have similar expressions, and you must have noted many young males with a similar problem.

The phenomenon of psychic connection between twins is well documented, I believe, but I relied on the connection I could observe between my twin grandsons for the basic idea. It's not a one-way street, but seemingly one twin is often more receptive than the other.

Sorry about the abrupt ending. I hope to do better next time.

Wow!! This is a great discussion I am learning so much, I can feel my mind expanding!

I think the Temple of One was great at showing although there were many kind, loving, and generous people in there, corruption and (and does) lurk everywhere. Sa Vil was a perfect example. He had been given chance after chance by a fair jury to change his ways, but never thought he would be punished fully or was simply unable to curb his impulses. (or maybe he just didn't care)

The ending upset me too, because I wasn't ready for it to be over just yet. There seemed so much more...and I know there is in book two, but I finished this one so quickly I thought surely there was something left for me to read.

As far as Erech not figuring out how Ai'Ram felt about him, she did keep it pretty well hidden. And he always saw her as his dearest friend, something I think he showed when he bought her the necklace before he left. Had Ai'Ram ever shown to him how she truly felt, Erech may have thought about her in that new way, but her role as a priestess prevented her from following that path.

I wanted to slap Erech for not doing more about his son as well. That blew my mind. I suppose he figured that the child was well taken care of with his mother and (for some reason) was afraid to talk to Myrine about him. GGRRR...men can be so thick headed!!

Amy wrote: "I think the Temple of One was great at showing although there were many kind, loving, and generous people in there, corruption and (and does) lurk everywhere. Sa Vil was a perfect example. He had..."
Sounds like I got Erech's character pretty right. Thanks, everyone.

Did anyone else feel a bit angry at Erech for dating again once Myrine had left?

Not upset just disappointed. Kind of wished for Ai'Ram instead...not all the bed hopping that he did. Was sad to read that his wolf was sent away also. At first I felt like they were trying to make him a loner, all the people close were dropping like flies. Even Ai'Ram at a point had no time for him too.

Amy wrote: "Did anyone else feel a bit angry at Erech for dating again once Myrine had left?"

Amy, see p. 196 -- Myrine had been gone nearly 3 years before he started dating again. He was about 18 when she left. He could not leave for another seven years, and then as heir apparent to the throne he would have had duties to Attike. Even though he loved her, wasn't he being a realist in accepting that a permanent relationship with Myrine could never be?

To follow your line would get us out of adventure fantasy and into romantic fiction, wouldn't it?.

I know she had been gone a long time, I was just sad to see their relationship come to a close, she had his child, and I was hoping for a stronger sense of loyalty to her.

I know that people in general would not typically stay in a relationship three years after being separated, even in better conditions, and the conditions these young adults were forced into were definitely extreme. So I can understand why they did it - doesn't mean I can't be a bit disappointed in it. :)

When wolf was sent away I was so infuriated. I wanted to hit one of the people who thought it was a good idea to send away not only one of Erech's protectors, but also his friend and confidant. I felt horrible for the injustice of it all. Sa Vil at least got a trail when he proved to be someone who could not be trusted. Poor wolf got sent away with no trial. I know he is a wolf, and many feared for their life from an animal who had tasted human flesh, but we all knew him and knew he was a good wolf. *SIGH* At least he found a good pack to be with, and we knew that he never held Erech accountable for his banishment.

Ivy wrote: "Not upset just disappointed. Kind of wished for Ai'Ram instead...not all the bed hopping that he did. Was sad to read that his wolf was sent away also. At first I felt like they were trying to make..."

Ivy, at the risk of giving away spoilers, don't forget that this is only the first of three books (so far) in the series. I think you're being a tad unfair in describing Erech as "bed hopping". He only had three girlfriends in about nine years. That's a kind of long hop or two, isn't it?

I didn't want to do a "Harry Potter" and detail each year of his life, one book at a time. There are obvious gaps -- what I wanted to do was describe the important parts of his growing-up in the first book so that the next two can concentrate on other events.

Don't read this paragraph if you don't like spoilers, but Ai-Ram will be happy, I promise.

I have a theory on what happens with Ai'Ram....I will be a bit giddy if I am right! :)

Amy wrote: "I know she had been gone a long time, I was just sad to see their relationship come to a close, she had his child, and I was hoping for a stronger sense of loyalty to her.

I know that people in..."

What makes you think their relationship has come to a close? Didn't some Hollywood type once say, "the show's not over till the fat lady sings"? Have you heard her yet?

It's gratifying as an author to see you've connected to the characters so much. Thanks.

(I think I may have told you before - I LOVE this book...LOL)

There are so many layers to this book that are wonderfully done, and many things that can be debated, talked about and enjoyed.

I figured there would be some sort of relationship between Erech and Myrine still, she does have his child after all, and as M'Buta stated, the first male child is quite a big deal for a kingdom. So Myrine will have to make some sort of appearance. And as there are at least 2 more books left to go, I'm sure I will get to see my girl back kickin' butt again!

Amy wrote: "(I think I may have told you before - I LOVE this book...LOL)

There are so many layers to this book that are wonderfully done, and many things that can be debated, talked about and enjoyed.

I f..."


I see more coming into play with Myrine and Erech, with the bond of the child playing a major roll in the coming books. I must admit after rereading the book I do see Allies being made and Erech's father using it to some advantage. As for the bed hopping..Phil you are right in say such. I did jump the gun a bit. Call it being blinded by MY need for Ai'Ram to be happy. On that note I hope the coming books explain why the creatures believe that Erech will return them to normal. The birdman and the cenitars seem trusting to a point also. Sa'Val's part is confusing also...being that Erech saved his life, why does he continue to serve Bel in trying to kill him. Especially with the latest mission to kill his brother. It seems as if the debt owed is being played down or tossed aside.
Hmmm...when is the next book coming out? As you can read I truly enjoyed the book and can't wait for the next.

Ivy wrote: "Amy wrote: "(I think I may have told you before - I LOVE this book...LOL)

There are so many layers to this book that are wonderfully done, and many things that can be debated, talked about and e..."

Ivy, the birdmen and the centaurs had some ability to see the future, which may be why they trusted and helped Erech. I think you're confusing Sa-Vil with the assassin, Su-Lun. Erech did save his life, which meant his Temple's laws prevented him from himself killing Erech. That did not stop him trying to kill the brother. You're jumping ahead a bit, Ivy, because that comes into Book 2, which I hope we can have available before Christmas.

Thanks, Ivy, I'm glad you liked it.

I'm not looking because I'm not finished yet, but about halfway through. Just wanted to say I'm enjoying it quite a bit. It took me a while to get used to the third person distant POV, but after a few chapters, I'm rolling right along and find it quite smooth.

That is all... :)

Can't wait til you get finished with it, Mysti!

And that sounds like a wonderful Christmas present for myself!!! :)

Mysti wrote: "I'm not looking because I'm not finished yet, but about halfway through. Just wanted to say I'm enjoying it quite a bit. It took me a while to get used to the third person distant POV, but after a ..."

Thanks, Mysti.

I'm just kinda following the conversation here...can't really think of anything to ask. But, I was completely heartbroken about Wolf!!!! And, I have some ideas about what's going to happen with Ai-Ram in the future.

Let's get to work getting the next book out, how 'bout it!!! ;-)

Cassie wrote: "I'm just kinda following the conversation here...can't really think of anything to ask. But, I was completely heartbroken about Wolf!!!! And, I have some ideas about what's going to happen with A..."

OK by me, Cassie. Talk to Chris when he gets back from his honeymoon!

The nerve, really... How dare he take time for a honeymoon! :-)

Cassie wrote: "The nerve, really... How dare he take time for a honeymoon! :-)"

What could he have been thinking of!

Did you answer this before... Will we see Wolf again??

Cassie wrote: "Did you answer this before... Will we see Wolf again??"

Are you asking me to give away a spoiler? Oh, all right. You haven't seen the last of Wolf.

:-) Yayyyy!!! It's not a spoiler for me. I will generally read a book even if I know how it will end ;-)!

Amy wrote: "You can post anytime you want in here, but we forewarned, the conversation may have something in it about a place that you haven't read yet. So read quickly!

LOL"

Yes, I agree, could have used more detail.

Cassie wrote: "I'm just kinda following the conversation here...can't really think of anything to ask. But, I was completely heartbroken about Wolf!!!! And, I have some ideas about what's going to happen with A..."

Yeah, about Wolf. A fine character. But seems there's hope.

Amy wrote: "I personally want to ask anyone who has finished the book yet what they thought about the games? Too much of it? Not enough? I loved the games and I thought it could have had a bit more detail t..."

I don't think a little more detail would have distracted from the story. An author has to have a balance between too much info and being sketchy. All in all a fun yet provocative story

I really enjoyed the games and thought a bit more of the fun, just for fun in the book would have been great to have. Later on in the book the games take on a much more serious tone, and being exposed to them in a friendlier light was enjoyable.

I don't think we've seen the last of Wolf, and I'm pretty sure I can see where Ai 'Ram's future is going. wink wink. I didn't think the games needed more detail...to me the book was more of a study in characterization than a true story line, so it flowed well as written that way. Too much depth to one part of the series of scenes would detract from others...and the series of scenes as a whole is meant to show Erech's growth into manhood. The games themselves was meant to portray Erech in a way to show that he put others (friends) ahead of himself...the games were the vehicle in which the author showcased that very important character trait.

I wasn't disappointed when Erech dated again. That's life. He's a guy. He's horny! LOL

And as far as being slow on the uptake? Well, at the risk of repeating myself...um, yeah. He's a guy. Nuff said.
LOL!

Dale wrote: "I don't think we've seen the last of Wolf, and I'm pretty sure I can see where Ai 'Ram's future is going. wink wink. I didn't think the games needed more detail...to me the book was more of a study..."

Thanks for all the comments. I'm really enjoying them -- I never thought that others would have as much fun with the characters as I did creating them. And Amy, if we ever run to a second edition, I promise I'll try and do a bit more about the games, OK?

I'm curious, Phil, about your decisions relating to the Empire's technology - it is obvious that this is an ancient world, yet the Empire has hot & cold running water, toilets, air-skimmer boats and other sorts of technological devices that are far ahead of their time. I think it's cool, because personally I feel there is a lot of evidence for highly advanced ancient cultures that have, somehow or another, been destroyed. I'm just curious as to why you chose that for the Empire? Also, the woolly mammoth surprised me - is that historically accurate, or did you throw it in as yet another example of how different the Empire is, overall?

I wish I had more time to spend on reading this - I'd have it finished by now if I didn't have to squeeze it in between editing and the many read/review books I have - but I'm enjoying it a great deal!