The Challenge Factory discussion

Barbara and Vi ~ A Storm of Swords

Barbara, are we ok for reading this in April? When would you like to start?

Prologue - pages 1 - 17
Chapter 1 - Jaime - pages 18 - 32
Chapter 2 - Catelyn - pages 33 - 42
Chapter 3 - Arya - pages 43 - 52
Chapter 4 - Tyrion - pages 53 - 66
Chapter 5 - Davos - pages 67 - 74
Chapter 6 - Sansa - pages 75 - 90
Chapter 7 - Jon - Pages 91 - 104
Chapter 8 - Daenerys - pages 105 - 121
Chapter 9 - Bran - pages 122 - 132
Chapter 10 - Davos - pages 133 - 145
Chapter 11 - Jaime - pages 146 - 160
Chapter 12 - Tyrion - pages 161 - 172
Chapter 13 - Arya - pages 173 - 187
Chapter 14 - Catelyn - pages 188 - 201
Chapter 15 - Jon - pages 202 - 219
Chapter 16 - Sansa - pages 220 - 226
Chapter 17 - Arya - Pages 227 - 235
Chapter 18 - Samwell - pages 236 - 253
Chapter 19 - Tyrion - pages 254 - 272
Chapter 20 - Catelyn - pages 273 - 284
Chapter 21 - Jaime - pages 285 - 297
Chapter 22 - Arya - pages 298 - 310
Chapter 23 - Daenerys - pages 311 - 330
Chapter 24 - Bran - pages 331 - 343
Chapter 25 - Davos - pages 344 - 354
Chapter 26 - Jon - pages 355 - 366
Chapter 27 - Daenerys - Pages 367 - 381
Chapter 28 - Sansa - pages 382 - 394
Chapter 29 - Arya - pages 395 - 404
Chapter 30 - Jon - pages 405 - 412
Chapter 31 - Jaime - pages 413 - 424
Chapter 32 - Tyrion - pages 425 - 440
Chapter 33 - Samwell - pages 441 - 459
Chapter 34 - Arya - pages 460 - 473
Chapter 35 - Catelyn - pages 474 - 487
Chapter 36 - Davos - pages 489 - 502
Chapter 37 - Jaime - Pages 503 - 516
Chapter 38 - Tyrion - pages 517 - 529
Chapter 39 - Arya - pages 530 - 544
Chapter 40 - Bran - pages 545 - 555
Chapter 41 - Jon - pages 556 - 570
Chapter 42 - Daenerys - pages 571 - 589
Chapter 43 - Arya - pages 590 - 602
Chapter 44 - Jaime - pages 603 - 619
Chapter 45 - Catelyn - pages 620 - 636
Chapter 46 - Samwell - pages 637 - 647
Chapter 47 - Arya - Pages 648 - 658
Chapter 48 - Jon - pages 659 - 669
Chapter 49 - Catelyn - pages 670 - 685
Chapter 50 - Arya - pages 686 - 692
Chapter 51 - Catelyn - pages 693 - 705
Chapter 52 - Arya - pages 706 - 710
Chapter 53 - Tyrion - pages 711 - 721
Chapter 54 - Davos - pages 722 - 737
Chapter 55 - Jon - pages 738 - 754
Chapter 56 - Bran - pages 755 - 773
Chapter 57 - Daenerys - Pages 774 - 792
Chapter 58 - Tyrion - pages 793 - 798
Chapter 59 - Sansa - pages 799 - 808
Chapter 60 - Tyrion - pages 809 - 831
Chapter 61 - Sansa - pages 832 - 841
Chapter 62 - Jaime - pages 842 - 856
Chapter 63 - Davos - pages 857 - 867
Chapter 64 - Jon - pages 868 - 882
Chapter 65 - Arya - pages 883 - 893
Chapter 66 - Tyrion - pages 894 - 911
Chapter 67 - Jaime - Pages 912 - 926
Chapter 68 - Sansa - pages 927 - 945
Chapter 69 - Jon - pages 946 - 959
Chapter 70 - Tyrion - pages 960 - 976
Chapter 71 - Daenerys - pages 977 - 995
Chapter 72 - Jaime - pages 996 - 1010
Chapter 73 - Jon - pages 1011- 1026
Chapter 74 - Arya - pages 1027- 1041
Chapter 75 - Samwell - pages 1042- 1052
Chapter 76 - Jon - pages 1053- 1061
Chapter 77 - Tyrion - pages 1062- 1073
Chapter 78 - Samwell - pages 1074- 1086
Chapter 79 - Jon - pages 1087- 1097
Chapter 80 - Sansa - pages 1098- 1115
Epilogue - pages 1116- 1128

Here are the questions by chapter.


Questions for Prologue - Chapter 3 (Arya)
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This section didn't have a huge bunch of questions, but I thought it was a good beginning to the third book.

1) I always wondered in the back of my mind about how loyal people who were forced to take the black would be to the cause. Were you surprised that a group was ready to rebel?

2) When the horn blew for the third time were you surprised? We hadn't heard from the Others in a while and how ironic they show up with the first flakes of snow. I expected it to be the Wildings come a bit early.

3) Brienne seems quite resourceful. Were you surprised by how she took charge and put a hole through the ship with a boulder?

4) Were you surprised by Jamie being faithful to Cersei? She is definitely not faithful.

5) Who the heck sent someone to kill Bran in his bed? The plot thickens. Could it have been Littlefinger?

6) Surprised Jaime didn't bash Brienne over the head with an oar? I was.

7) I'm still confused about what potentially happened to Lysa. Did she have a child before she got married, and, if so whose?

8) Feeling any sympathy for Lysa?

9) Is Sansa doomed? Who did the worse thing Edmure or Catelyn. Both were definitely wrong.

10) We finally know what happened to Ayra. Seems like we pick up on her story were we last heard (which seems a bit out of sync with everything else) of her in the last book. Do you think her wolf is coming back? Do you think the dream was her having a mind meld with her wolf?
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Questions for Chapter 4 (Tyrion) – Chapter 7 (Jon)
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11) Poor Tyrion! His face and body so battered. Do you think Ser Bronn will remain faithful? Will he find a connection between Ser Mandon Moore and Queen Cersei? What good will it do, except give him certainty? Think he’ll act on any knowledge gained?

12) What was your initial impression of Ser Addam Marband, commander of the gold cloaks?

13) What happened to those 'almost warm feelings' the last time Lord Tywin saw Tyrion? Were you surprised Tyrion was so unappreciated by his father? Did it piss you off as much as it did me? Is this Cersei’s doing?

14) Think Lord Tywin is going to pay for his treatment of Alayaya? Is it possible you are now even more worried about Shae being discovered?

15) Were you surprised Tyrion asked for Casterly Rock? What about Lord Tywin's response? Think Tyrion will possess it one day?

16) Davos is still alive! Wow. Little bit of a vision quest taking place out there on Onion Island, huh? Comments. Now just what is he planning?

17) On first learning of Sansa’s invite from Margaery Tyrell, what did you think her motivation was?

18) Did Ser Loras really not remember Sansa? I guess I’m a little dense, but I didn’t understand how Sansa had offended Ser Loras by mentioning his unhorsing Robar Royce. Because treachery and conspiracy was involved later that day, therefore he was reminded of her father’s supposed duplicity?

19) What did you think of Lady Olenna, Queen of Thorns? Should Sansa have confided in her and her court? Can Sansa trust them? Did you think the song went along with what they were discussing in a macabre sort of way?

20) Did you feel a little sorry for Sansa, spinning her romantic notions of a knight in shining armor again? Or were you just disgusted with her naïve?

21) Did you know the turncloak, Mance Rayder, King-beyond-the-Wall, was the one sitting in the middle of the tent playing the lute and singing? Any significance in the song he sang? What did you think of his captains, chiefs? How about that he sent them away and left his wife, Dalla, to listen to their talk?

22) What do you think of Jon Snow’s “undercover” work? Will he be successful? Will he stay true? Make and alliance between the wildings and the Night’s Watch? Maybe get them to join forces to fight the Others?
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Questions for Chapter 8 (Daenerys) - Chapter 11 (Jaime)
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23.Do you think Ser Jorah is right not to trust Whitebeard? (Just an observation, since there was so little of Dany in the previous book, I liked how there was a paragraph recapping what she’s been through.)

24.We now know that Dany enjoys feeding her dragons in the nude (ha ha!). What a visual: the dragons roasting their own meat! That would come in handy at barbecues. Did you expect Ser Jorah to make a move on Dany? Do you think she will accept his proposal? I think she will be like Queen Elizabeth I and be only wed to her country.

25.Sounds like Bran is really getting the hang of using his third eye. I am unclear on why they are traveling beyond the wall. Who are they looking for (a person who can teach Bran)? Do we know specifically? I wish we could see how Rickon and Osha are faring!

26.More confusion: Davos believes that Melisandre sent the fire on the battleships, but it was the “wildfire”, right? Or did Melisandre just add to it?

27.Do you think Salladhor Saan betrayed Davos? Will Davos live to get his revenge on Melisandre?

28.Did anyone else think, “I ‘ve got a bad feeling about this” when the Kingslayer was allowed to get on a horse? Even with wrist chains, the man is crafty!

29.Bit of a digression…in this chapter Elia of Dorne is mentioned (wife of Rhaegar). Does Mance Rayder’s song about the Dornishman’s wife have something to do with her or someone related to her?

30.So, we learn that Jaime had almost been betrothed to Lysa Tully (interesting!) and that he joined the Kingsguard because Cersei wanted him too (manipulative b-tch!) Do you think Tywin knew about the twins’ relationship? Is that why he resigned as Hand and took Cersei back to Casterly Rock?

31.Thoughts on Jaime killing the King? Sounds like Aerys wanted Jaime to kill his own father. I am wondering about the plan leading up to the assassination. Jaime is called Kingslayer, but many were in on the plot, no?
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Questions for Chapter 12 (Tyrion) - Chapter 15 (Jon)
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32) Laughed at Vary's dressing up as a woman.

33) Do you think Tyrion will use the steps in Vary's bedroom to his advantage in the future?

34) I'm thinking Shae will be Tyrion's downfall. Anyone else?

35) Cersei is such a tease. She is doing what she told Sansa she does - bear a different kind of weapon. There is a word for women like her.

36) Here's a thought, after pondering Lisa's thoughts about Tyrion's dad, could he have tried to get rid of his son by framing him? Could he have sent the assassin after Bran?

37) What do you think of Arya's new "friends"? Should she have revealed herself to Harwin? Who the heck is he with?

38) I think Robb just signed his own death warrant. He did a stupid thing. Anyone else agree?

39) Gah! Who the heck is Tansy and do we really care?

40) Seems like we have a bit of a problem communicating our ideas in Kingdom Robb. Wonder how Robb's uncle likes being bossed around by his nephew?

41) Jon is having problems of a feminine nature. Talk about blackmail. Any thoughts on this? Think wedding bells are in Jon's future?

42) Mammoths and Giants! How fun. Wonder if the Mammoth is a Sigil of any houses?
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Questions for Chapter 16 (Sansa) - Chapter 19 (Tyrion)
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43) Should Sansa have left with Ser Dontos?

44) Well this answers my previous question - Arya should not have trusted the band of theives. Do you think Gendry will come to her aid?

45) Like how Sam managed to rise to the occasion and kill the Other. Interesting thing about the obsidian. Weren't the arrowheads and things that Jon found in the buried box also made of obsidian?

46) Looks like the black brothers are no more. Those left are fleeing for their lives. I don't think we know exactly who all survived. Sounded like Sam sent messages when they were first attacked and then let the rest of the birds free. Wonder what those who were warned will think? Do you think they'll believe the Others have returned?

47)Thoughts about Sansa marrying Tyrion? She will freak. Anyone see this one coming?

48) Cersei being forced to marry? That is precious. I think her father is looking to punish her. Do you think she'll marry or refuse?

49) Tywin knows what Robb did. Anyone else thinking we'll be seeing an end to Robb's reign?
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Questions for Chapter 20 (Catelyn) – Chapter 23 (Daenerys)
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50) Well Martin didn’t sugarcoat it, did he? That was quite a descriptive passage of a brutal assassination, IMHO. Did you know who the two young boys were before it was revealed?

51) Book quote: “How can it be treason to kill Lannisters, when it is not treason to free them?” Whoa! No cut-and-paste caricatures here. Did you think this arguing point, made by Karstark, had any validity?

52) Did you believe that King Robb would hold Karstark as a hostage or kill him? Were you surprised he wielded the poleaxe himself? He has a lot of his father in him, does he not? Will this bring about his downfall?

53) Book quote: “Bowmen are fearless so long as they can hide behind walls and shoot at you from afar, but if you come at them, they run.” Seems Jaime is not above teaching Brienne. Comments on this and their forest fight scene?

54) Jaime thinks of returning Sansa, for his own amusement, doesn’t believe Brienne deserves gang-raping, and wants her to stretch the truth about her Sapphire Isle to save her hide. Does he have any redeeming qualities? Sounds like the “methage” Vargo Hoat would send Lord Tywin is a body part of Jaime’s. Any idea what part world make him scream like that?

55) I have long been trying to figure out whose side Lord Beric Dondarrion, of Blackhaven, is on. He was sent out by Lord Stark, when he was Hand to the King, to capture Ser Gregor Clegane. Now Arya finds out Lord Beric was hanged, but Thoros revived him. It appears he is out for himself now – well, and the people in his vicinity – correct?

56) Poor Arya, she (and me) doesn’t know who has switched sides – or when – in all these battles, assassinations, and political power plays. Are you keeping them all straight?

57) I think Gendry thought Arya, after a fierce scrubbing and trimming, looked pretty appealing and didn’t know how to handle it. You? I think this has been asked before, but do you think there's potential for a romantic relationship between Arya and Gendry? Talk about a one-two punch. Now they would have some clout, correct?

58) Was I the only one smiling over Arya’s comment about her Needle work?

59) The slaver, Kraznys mo Nakloz, said “whore” one too many times (IMHO); think he will pay for that bit of jackassery?

60) Book Quote: Tap, tap, tap. Who the hell is Whitebeard?

61) Were you impressed that Dany didn’t consign her “handling” by Irri as a dream, nor her as a bedslave, and told her so?

62) Book quote: Dany did not turn. She could not bear to look at him just now. If she did, she might well slap him again. Or cry. Or kiss him. And never know which was right and which was wrong and which was maddess. So far a kiss and a slap; Ser Jorah did stir up some emotions in Dany. Comments.

63) Man-oh-man! Dany is smack-dab in the middle of a dilemma. We know how she detests slavery. Whatever will her decision be?
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Questions for Chapter 24 (Bran) - Chapter 27 (Daenerys)
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64) We finally have a Bran chapter where something useful is found. Yay! Do you think the group will continue to the wall? What do you think they'll find?

65) The story the of the Knight and the Laughing Tree - Could it have been about Lyanna and how the Starks became friends with the Reeds (did I get everyone straight?)?

66) Think Davos will allow himself to become a shadow baby? Did she make a good argument for herself? Is Melisandre's offer of pleasure enough to sway him? I cringed at that one. Can't imagine anyone wanting to close and personal with her after seeing her birth a shadow baby. Talk about a mood spoiler. Gah!

67) Do you think Stannis is still alive? No one has seen him for awhile.

68) Now we find Stannis' Hand has been imprisoned for treason. Do you think it's treason?

69) Lord Alester has rings. Could he be the mysterious man Arya saw in the first book? I'm not sure the rest of the description fits.

70) Putting on my fortune telling hat (or would that be scarves) and predicting that Ygritte will die and Jon will step into the role his destiny was supposed to take. Any thoughts? I agree with whoever said they don't like Ygritte. I don't either, and I don't know why.

71) Did anyone else wonder at one time if Ygritte, at the beginning, was being used as a tool to secure Jon's loyalty? After this chapter, however, I really believe she loves him.

72) Did you get upset when Dany offered up Dragos?

73) Did you see the Dragon attack coming? I wondered, but wasn't sure how it'd play out.

74) Thoughts on Dany's statement,"Justice...that's what Kings are for."

75) What did you think of the warning and who do you think the woman was who uttered it? I'm thinking Melisandre.

76) Who is your favorite character at this point?
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Questions for Chapter 28 (Sansa) - Chapter 31(Jaime)
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77) I feel so bad for both Sansa and Tyrion. What an awful position for the two of them to be put in. Sansa doesn't trust any of the Lannisters and can't see past the outer shell of Tyrion to his inner beauty. Tyrion has wedded a 12 year old girl. He sees it like it is and doesn't force her. Gotta love him and feel awful for him at the same time. Curse you Cersei and Tywin! Okay got my meladramatic moment out of the way. :)

78) The Tyrells acted like Sansa had the plague. Do you think they thought she knew she'd be wed to Tyrion?

79) Joffrey disgusts me. I hope he gets his in the end. He's one character I wouldn't miss. Anyone else agree?

80) Loved Tyrion's standing his ground and not allowing them to have a traditional bedding. Do you think not having sealed the deal will prove to be a mistake for both of them?

81) Tansy's secret identity is finally revealed. Now what the heck does she have to do with anything? Okay here's something I've been pondering for a while. Could she be Tyrion's Tysha? His first wife? I know crazy, right?

82) I think Gendry has a crush on Arya. He acted awful strange when she said he wasn't her brother. Could she like him too? I think the Lady doth protest too much.:)

83) Arya seems to once again be in the frying pan. I'm worried for her. Is anyone else?

84) I now know why I dislike Ygritte. She keeps telling Jon he knows nothing. Getting a bit annoyed by that.

85) The Horn of Winter - I think I know what happened to it, but does Jon have it?

86) Jaime is proving himself to be a nice guy. Darn him. I can't believe he lost his hand. I feel awful for him. Liked his statement that Brienne was his protector. I'm extremely sad the two won't be able to sword fight again. *sniff* Any thoughts on what happened and about the new knowledge we gained?
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Questions for Chapter 32(Tyrion) - Chapter 35 (Catelyn)
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87) I felt so bad for Tyrion when his feelings were displayed about the kind of marriage he wanted with Sansa.

88) Guess Jaime isn't going to need that second sword. Notice how Lord Tywin didn't offer it to Tyrion.

89) I don't know about anyone else but I'm pretty suspicious of the singer. Does he have an ulterior motive? He and Tyrion's girl seem to know way more than they should. Could they be spies or something worse? Remember how she wanted access to the wedding as well?

90) Now know the messages said nothing about the others. Wonder where the Others are now?

91) Does anyone remember Janos Slynt? Is he the one who had a problem with Jon?

92) Anyone else shocked by the death of Ser Mormont and Craster?

93) Samwell and Gilly? What do you make of the escape? As a mom of three children my first thought was, "Ouch!" I can't imagine going on a journey after just giving birth. Will she be able to help him get to the wall? Traveling with a new born? Will all of them make it?

94) Who are Cater's sons? That sounded questionable.

95) What did you think of the confrontation between the Hound and Arya?

96) The men they're with still baffle me. Are they good or bad? They say they're Robert's men. What does that mean and what will they do with Arya?

97) Would you trust the Freys? Weren't one of the boys killed part Frey? I don't think I'd trust them.
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Questions for Chapter 36 (Davos) – Chapter 39 (Arya)
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98.It’s refreshing to see Stannis awake and lucid. How surprised were you that he asked Davos to be Hand of the King? Why do you suppose Stannis trusts Davos so much?


99. Melisandre asks Stannis for “the boy” so she can wake the “stone dragon.” Is “the boy” Edric? What is the “stone dragon?” Do you think she’s asking for a sacrifice or just drops of blood? (My guess is sacrifice.) Were you surprised that Stannis told her no?

100.I continue to be surprised by and impressed with Jaime. He tells Brienne he killed Aerys to prevent him from burning King’s Landing. Why didn’t he tell anyone? He says he didn’t because he swore to keep the king’s secrets, but the guy was dead for goodness’ sake! I think Jaime could have saved his reputation if everyone had known about this.

101.I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Jaime has he tries to eat one-handed. I’m getting worried for Brienne since Bolton plans to send her to Vargo, and send Jaime to King’s Landing. I hope she comes up with a brilliant escape plan!

102.Just an observation: Brienne is learning that oaths don’t mean much. She’s disappointed that Jaime, Robb and Tyrion have all broken their promises. Do you think now she will be more wary and less naïve?



103.Roose Bolton says that Arya has been found and will be returned safely to the North. Does he know that Arya was the girl who had been serving him? I think not.


104.Well, now we have even more reason to hate Cersei if the story of Tyrion as a baby that Prince Oberyn told is true. Do you believe the story, or do you think Oberyn is trying to turn Tyrion against Cersei (not that he hasn’t already turned against her!). It’s really hard to fathom a 9-year-old girl being so cruel to her own baby brother! I like how Jaime came to Tyrion’s defense (in the tale).

105.How will Cersei react to the new wedding guests?


106.Why do they keep letting the Hound go? He’s nothing but trouble!

107.Were you surprised Gendry wanted to stay with the outlaws rather than serve at Riverrun?
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Questions for Chapter 40 (Bran) - Chapter 43 (Arya)
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108) I can't believe how close Bran and Jon were to each other. Seems to be another think Martin likes to do. Always so close yet so far.

109) "Aye," said Jojen, "but one man willing to forswear himself would be enough to sell your secret to the ironmen or the Bastard of Bolton."
Anyone else think this might be some foreshadowing? I thought of Janos Slynt when I read it.

110) Surprised Jon wouldn't kill the old man or are you more surprised he bolted and left the Wildings?

111) Do you think Ygritte and Jon are too different for it ever to have worked out?

112) Do you think he learned enough to leave?

113) What did you think of Dany's battle plans?

114) Thought of how she told Ser Jorah to stop his possessive/jealous behavior? Was it the right thing to do?

115) Thoughts on Daario Nahris? Lovely present he brought Dany.

116) We learned more about Rheagar. Still we don't have the full story.

117) Darn it my theory about Jon was wrong. Drats! I liked my theory about his birth more.

118) Darn it just when I thought Arya might be headed for safety Sandor kidnaps her. Noooooooooo!
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Questions for Chapter 44 (Jaime) to Chapter 47 (Arya)
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119. In a flashback we see that Jaime realized he was chosen for the Kingsguard merely to spite Tywin. How do you think this affected him? Perhaps he wanted to kill Aerys long before Robert’s troops closed in.

120. Jaime continues his road to sainthood by rescuing Brienne from a bear. Next he will rescue drowning puppies and save Timmy from a burning building. :-) Why do you think he went back to Harrenhall? Could it be he cares (not romantically, just in a “brotherhood” kind of way)? Has Jaime truly changed since he pushed Bran out the window? How much does losing his hand have to do with his 180?

121. Uh-oh. The old crone predicted that Riverrun would be taken, and here we have Robb keeping his wife and her family “safe” at Riverrun while he goes to Edmure’s wedding. Over and over we are told how safe it is. I have a bad feeling about this.

122. I wanted to high-five Robb when he told Catelyn he was going to name Jon Snow his heir! I fear this means the end of Robb is near, though. I was bothered at Catelyn taking this so personally. She felt trapped by this. I am not sure why she felt this way.

123. Samwell prays to the Gods for help and lo and behold the ravens save him and Gilly from the wights. Coincidence? Who was the mysterious elk-rider?

124. I enjoyed watching Arya trying to kill and/or escape the Hound. Did you know he was taking her to her mother? Since he had been relatively kind to Sansa, it makes sense he wouldn’t be too cruel to Arya. I’m glad his goal is to get her to the Twins instead of Riverrun. GRRM is probably just teasing us again,though.
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Questions for Chapter 48 (Jon) - Chapter 51 (Catelyn)
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Wow! on of the smallest sections of 4 chapters we've read thus far, but it packed a punch.

125)Poor Jon. Finds out about the false reports about Bran andd Rickon and finds out what happened to Mormont. Plus, the wall is almost deserted. I'm a little worried that the wall will be overtaken while Jon is out of it. Were you surprised to find some of the brothers had returned and told the story of what happened?

126) Jon's confession about Ygritte shows how he feels guilty about what happened. Think a Jon junior will result from their relationship?

127) I can't believe, well yes I can, what happened to Robb and Catelyn. Got an uneasy feeling when Frey made the speech about not forgetting things.

128) What do you think happened to Edmure? If he's not dead how will he react to finding his sister and nephew murdered?

129) I guess we now know why they wanted Robb's wife with him.

130) Poor Arya. Once again she can't get a break. What do you think will happen to her?

131) Thoughts about the hound? Will he try to sell her off again, and, if so, to who?
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Questions for Chapter 52 (Arya) - Chapter 55 (Jon)
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132) I felt so bad for Arya. Do you think she's okay? I wonder why they didn't just lump this chapter in with the previous Arya chapter?

133) Sounded like Edmure is alive, but Riverun will be taken away or did I get that wrong? Poor Tyrion. If Sansa didn't hate him before she might now.

134) Interesting to find Tywin is drugging Joffrey. Anyone else surprised?

135) More information about the fall of the Targaryens. What do you make of it?

136) Arya and Roose Bolton? Thoughts? Gah!

137) 2 of the kings Melisandre promised would die have. Is Joffrey next?

138) Thoughts about Davos and if Joffrey does die will the Edric then be sacrificed?

139) So it looks like Davos will not tell Stannis about the Wall? I wonder why?

140)Love the scarecrows.

141) The battle at the wall was like the last showdown. Were you surprised the brothers won? Were you surprised Ygritte died? At least I think she died. I can't be certain until she's truly buried.
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Questions for Chapter 56 (Bran) through Chapter 59 (Sansa)
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142. Did anyone think that Sam and Gilly were hiding in the well? I was completely surprised by that.

143. I can’t remember….did Jon, Sam and the other Night’s Watchmen know about Bran and Rickon being “murdered?” Sam doesn’t seem too surprised that Bran is alive.

144. More info on the Elk Rider: He has cold hands; he was sent to find someone; he can’t pass beyond the wall due to a spell; he wears black and is as pale as a wight; he speaks (as opposed to wights who do not); he knows about the black gate; he was sent to find someone, and that someone is not Sam. Meera was startled when she heard about him. Who/what is he? Jojen says that Bran is the one Sam was told to bring. What makes Jojen think this? Did he dream it?

145. Oh, Dany. Why does she think it’s so important to take the city of Meereen? It sounds like there are no practical ways to take the city. On the other hand, if they march, much of her group could die of disease or starvation. Sounds like she’s got quite the problem on her hands.

146. Thoughts on Dany’s “admiration” of Daario? It kind of gives me the creeps.

147. Who was the Titan’s Bastard? I can’t remember!

148. Did anyone think that Whitebeard was Berristan Selmy? You smart ladies knew he had to be someone important, and I recall someone asked about Selmy recently.

149. Dany feels betrayed by both Selmy and Jorah, even though both have proven to be loyal allies and protectors. Is she right to still suspect them? Did we know that Jorah was in cahoots with Varys early on? (This was made clear in the TV series, but I can’t recall if it was made clear in the books until this chapter.) What will Dany do now?? The next Dany chapter is too far away!

150. Is anyone else surprised that Tyrion keeps taking the risk of seeing Shae? Does Sansa have a clue at all about her?

151. Joffrey is such a little sh-t. He behaves like a 2-year old. I was amazed that Tyrion held is tongue while Joffrey offended Sansa and sliced the rare book. Interesting that Tyrion said Viserys should have been included in Kaeth’s book. Viserys had poisoned his nephew Baelor to save the realm. Seems like Tyrion wants to do the same.
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Questions for Chapter 60 (Tyrion) to Chapter 63 (Davos)
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152. Tyrion concluded King Joffrey was behind the assassination attempt on Bran. Do you think this is true?

153. Tyrion’s has been unappreciated for his role in the victory of the Battle of the Blackwater, despises by the inhabitants of Kings’ Landing, given a wife who doesn’t want him, been made the butt of jests of at court, and now accused of a crime he didn’t commit. He’s not having much luck lately. How do you think his trial will go?

154. King Joffrey is dead! **Lisa Kay does happy dance.** Did you think at first he was really dying? Or just chocking? We know Tyrion didn’t do it; so, who did? Cersei must really hate Tyrion to accuse him of regicide and kinslaying. Or do you think she really believes Tyrion did kill her son?

155. Sansa finally ran off with “Ser” Dontos, only to be betrayed. Was Littlefinger’s interaction with Sansa a little creepy, or what? All I can say is out of the frying pan and into the fire. True?

156. We are given several answers, but more questions too. It was cruel of Littlefinger to set up the jousting dwarfs. Did he plan it all? Even the misdirect of Tyrion as scapegoat for Joffrey’s murder?

157. Cersei wouldn’t let Jaime hold his son when he was born? She continues to be the omnipotent b!tch, IMO. What did you think of Jaime’s reaction to hearing of his son’s death?

158. Again Jaime intervenes for Brienne, saving her from Ser Loras Tyrell’s wrath. How will her trial go? Will there even be one? I mean, she supposedly killed a traitor, right?

159. Ick. Sex on the altar with your sibling with your dead son nearby? Talk about breaking a few commandments or any sense of propriety. Comments.

160. Do you think Jaime will listen to Tyrion’s side of things? Will Jaime be forced to choose between his two siblings?

161. Whoa! Who knew Davos, now Lord Rainwood, Admiral of the Narrow Sea, had it in him to rescue Edric? Why didn’t Melisandre foresee this turn of events; because it was NOT directed at her? Has Davos’ luck finally run out?
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Questions for Chapter 64 (Jon) through Chapter 67 (Jaime)
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162. Another battle at the wall! Again, I thought all was lost but the brothers triumph. Does the Wall really protect itself or was it just good strategic planning?

163. Jon now commands the Wall (at least temporarily). I keep forgetting he is so young! He’s what, 16 or 17? Yep, Ygritte is dead and burned. No bastard heir (yet). Do you we know how far away Sam and Bran are from Jon?

164. I’m relieved that Arya is safe. How sad she saw her mother dead when she was dreaming! I had forgotten about Lysa…good idea to take her there. The Hound says Arya’s not worth spit to him now, so why does he continue to take care of her?

165. OK, now the Hound wants to take Arya to Riverrun but she wants to go to the Wall. To me, neither sounds like a safe option! Do you think she would be better off with Blackfish or with Jon Snow?

166. Wow, even Bronn won’t fight for Tyrion now. Does he have a chance at all? Seems nobody minds lying at the trial. If Tyrion does confess, do you believe Tywin would send him to the Wall?

167. Hmmm, Oberyn as champion. I like it…a chance to kill his sister’s murderer. Should be a good fight! However, do you think the Mountain would come as commanded? I get the feeling he may go rogue.

168. Do you think Jaime can be a successful Commander of the Kingsguard with only one hand? He’s not getting respect from everyone. Will Ser Boros pay for his insolence?

169. I think Jaime has almost convinced Loras that Brienne didn’t kill Renly. It appears Jaime believes a shadow was the culprit. Does his belief have more to do with his belief in supernatural occurrence or his faith in Brienne? So, if/when Brienne is released, what will she do? Stay in King’s Landing?

170. Regarding Ser Loras, Knight of the Flowers, in the TV series, it’s made explicitly clear that he and Renly are lovers. So, as I’ve been reading, I’ve been looking for clues to this wondering if GRRM wrote it that way or if the producers were taking artistic license. There are hints such as the “Rainbow Guard” and the fact that Margaery is still a virgin, but I never saw anything definitive until one scene in which Jaime tells Loras, “I’ll take it [the sword] from you and shove it up some place even Renly never found.” (Chapter 62 Jaime) So to me this was saying, yes they had been lovers and people knew about it. Anyway, my main point here is that if they were, why wasn’t it made more explicit? Would a relationship such as this alienate readers? It’s ok to have incestuous twins but not two men in love? Thoughts?
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Questions for Chapter 68 (Sansa) to Chapter 71 (Daenerys)
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171. It began in Sansa’s last chapter (61), that first niggling doubt that she might not have been better off with Tyrion. Hindsight being such a wondrous thing, it rises again. Will Sansa continue to compare her marriage to Tyrion with her currently precarious situation and finally realize some truth about Tyrion as the story goes on? Ugh! Being married to Robert, she just might!

172. “A harp can be a dangerous as a sword, in the right hands.” Lord Petyr Baelish, Littlefinger, has a way of twisting words to suit his purpose. Right off the bat, we hear more half-truths regarding Tyrion character when Littlefinger tells Sansa her husband turned his first wife over to the guards when he grew tired of her. Later Littlefinger tells her, “Clean hands, Sansa. Whatever you do, make certain your hands are clean.” And more good advice with, “When you know what a man wants you know who he is, and how to move him.” Will Sansa ever figure out what Littlefinger’s “songs” to her are manipulations, find out his wants, maneuver him to do her bidding, all the while keeping her hands clean? Is even that possible by the end of this series?

173. What did I say about time in my last set of answers regarding the Wall? It has been there for 8,000 years and it looks like Mance Rayder means to fight that long. I was wondering how long Jon Snow could keep battling when Ser Allister Thorne and Lord Janos Slynt show up! How will Lord Janos deal with Jon Snow’s “treason”?

174. Were you as sad as I was that even Podrick Payne, Tyrion’s squire, believes Tyrion guilty?

175. And Shae! How could she lie in court about Tyrion? What was her motive? Gold, prestige, hatred, or coercion?

176. Did you think Tyrion was going to confess to King Joffrey’s murder and hope he’d be sent to the Wall? Were you surprised by the confession he gave?

177. Before it began, who did you believe was going to win Tyrion’s trial by battle? There at the end, did you think Prince Oberyn was going to have a victory over Ser Gregor? What does a draw mean for Tyrion?

178. Joso’s Cock? Well now we know how Dany conquered Meereen. As well as the “three treasons”. Do you feel she should have forgiven Ser Jorah? Will not doing so come back to haunt her? Or only her dreams?

179. Were you surprised that Dany decided to stay?
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Questions for Chapter 72 (Jamie) - Chapter 75 (Samwell)
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180) What did you think about the fake Arya? For a second I thought maybe we'd missed something and Arya had been captured.

181) Do you think Jaime is done with Cersei? Do you think he's seeing her in a different light? Perhaps experiencing feelings of regret?

182) Why does Jaime sound so...depressed, like he's going to die.. perhaps a tad bit suicidal when he talks to Brienne? Anyone else get that vibe?

183) Do you think Slynt sent Jon on what he figured would be a suicidal mission?

184) I was wrong about the horn of winter. Still not sure what it does. Did they say something about it calling giants or something?

185) Surprised Stannis sent men?

186) Surprised Arya left the Hound? Did you think she might forgive him?

187) What do you think of the Hound? Do you think he's haunted by what he's done? Do you think he had a choice?

188)Anyone else get a bit confused by how much information seems to be skipped then later explained? I keep wondering if I missed something. These last chapters seem to be choppy and hard to follow almost like Martin didn't know how to fit it all in and hurriedly tried to bring it all to an end.

189)Sam's back, but what happened to Bran? I'm confused. He's in hiding, but where? What happened?

190) Who do you think will rule that wall? Will Samwell throw in his cap? What will happen to Jon? Was everything decided?
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Questions for Chapter 76 (Jon) - Chapter 79 (Jon)
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191) Should Jon have said no to being Lord of Winterfell? Oh, and for the record I still think we're going to find out something about Jon's mother that we still haven;t heard. I'm just not sure what. I think there's still a mystery there.

192) When Ghost came back it was the deciding factor for Jon what his choice would be. Do you think everything will come down to a war between Gods? Do we know who Dany believes in?

193) We now know Tansy is Tysha. Virtual high five to Lisa Kay for being my partner in thinking that might me the case. So now it would appear she had a child that wasn't Tyrion's. Remember what Catelyn's father said about the next one being trueborn.

194) Would you have believed Tyrion would kill his father? Will he find Tysha? Are they still married? Did Tysha actually give birth to Tyrion's child? So many questions. So many unanswered questions.

195) I know Tyrion lied about killing Joffrey because he was mad at his brother. Do you think this will come back to bite him in the butt later? Q

196) Without Tywin around what do you think will happen?

197) Loving Samwell more and more all the time. Clever lad. Were you surprised he lied and got Jon elected as master of the wall?

198) Do you like the fact that Jon is now the in charge of the Wall?
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Questions for Chapter 80 (Sansa) - Epilogue
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199) Sansa has really gotten herself into a pickle with Littlefinger. No one knows who she is and he's got his sights set on her. Just like Arya she can't get a break.

200) Cuckoo Bird (Lysa) is gone and oh how many songs she sang before she left. Anyone as surprised as me about some of those confessions? Did you think Lysa would have killed her husband and lied to her sister? Does any of this confuse you as to the reason why Littlefinger did it?

201) What was with the shaking with young Robert?

202) She's back!!!! Oh dear lord is she ever! Catelyn survived????? Truly???? How the heck did that happen and how did she recruit anyone without being able to talk?

203) Who's continuing and, those of you who are continuing, when should we read the next book? Should we take a break in between this one and the next?
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We're all set for Monday. :)

Vi you still good to start today? I can wait if need be just let me know.

Hi Barbara sorry but can we start Tuesday, tomorrow? I do have it ready but had a big round of visitation today and its 9 pm already. Tomorrow would be perfect..

That's fine. Tomorrow it is.

Hi Barbara! Have you started it yet? I did.

Answers to Prologue - Chapter 3
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I have to say - what a beginning! I didn't expect Jaime to be alive. Really. I wonder what Catelyn is playing at.

1) I always wondered in the back of my mind about how loyal people who were forced to take the black would be to the cause. Were you surprised that a group was ready to rebel?
Nope - basically, this is a group of outlaws people. How can they be loyal? It wasn't voluntary. And all those people will have a false sense of entitlement, like Chett.

2) When the horn blew for the third time were you surprised? We hadn't heard from the Others in a while and how ironic they show up with the first flakes of snow. I expected it to be the Wildings come a bit early.
Totally. And I was grinning at the closing sentence of the Prologue. But a little not suprised at Otheres - GRRM clearly likes winding us up so it wouldn't be Wildlings.

3) Brienne seems quite resourceful. Were you surprised by how she took charge and put a hole through the ship with a boulder?
I'm liking Brienne (Please GRRM - don't kill her). Nope, not really. She's one of those persons who are loyal - given a purpose she will try her best to finish it. At least I'm thinking so. But this is one mission I'm not sure how it can succeed.

4) Were you surprised by Jamie being faithful to Cersei? She is definitely not faithful.
Yeah! Who'd have thought?! But boy, it's disgusting.

5) Who the heck sent someone to kill Bran in his bed? The plot thickens. Could it have been Littlefinger?
I thought it was leaning towards Littlefinger from the first book? Is it not so?

6) Surprised Jaime didn't bash Brienne over the head with an oar? I was.
Huh - not really. Apart from the incest, he acts for the most part, a gentleman. Though, for the life of me, I can't belive how I got that impression.

7) I'm still confused about what potentially happened to Lysa. Did she have a child before she got married, and, if so whose?
Apparently so or that is Catelyn's theory. COuld it be true? - not sure.

8) Feeling any sympathy for Lysa?
Yes. Very. IF the story is true.

9) Is Sansa doomed? Who did the worse thing Edmure or Catelyn. Both were definitely wrong.
Both are idiots. I can't say who's worse. What the heck was she thinking?

10) We finally know what happened to Ayra. Seems like we pick up on her story were we last heard (which seems a bit out of sync with everything else) of her in the last book. Do you think her wolf is coming back? Do you think the dream was her having a mind meld with her wolf?
From GRRM's note, it looks like the time is not exactly linearly synced. A thing to note. Yep - I think her wolf's coming back. And looks like she might share atleast a bit with Bran on that mind meld thing.
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Answers to Chapter 4 - Chapter 7

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11) Poor Tyrion! His face and body so battered. Do you think Ser Bronn will remain faithful? Will he find a connection between Ser Mandon Moore and Queen Cersei? What good will it do, except give him certainty? Think he’ll act on any knowledge gained?
I feel for poor Tyrion - oone of the few characters who seems to be the most self-aware and trying to do some of the good things. I'm on the fence regarding Ser Bronn though it looks unlikely. I don't know why he's trying so hard to find a connection. What can he do on the knowledge gained?

12) What was your initial impression of Ser Addam Marband, commander of the gold cloaks?
Um, really nothing. Might be a good guy but he might not. Will have to wait and see

13) What happened to those 'almost warm feelings' the last time Lord Tywin saw Tyrion? Were you surprised Tyrion was so unappreciated by his father? Did it piss you off as much as it did me? Is this Cersei’s doing?
Oh it pissed me off. Poor Tyrion. Looks like Lord Tywin forgot about those "almost warm feelings" and I belive Cersei has a hand in it.

14) Think Lord Tywin is going to pay for his treatment of Alayaya? Is it possible you are now even more worried about Shae being discovered?
Definitely. Tyrion will not forget this. I didn't get why Tyrion is with Shae in the first place(well, apart from the rebelling bit). A little bewildered regarding that.

15) Were you surprised Tyrion asked for Casterly Rock? What about Lord Tywin's response? Think Tyrion will possess it one day?
Nope. Tywin is an idiot. Uhm, not likely but maybe Tyrion can make it happen.

16) Davos is still alive! Wow. Little bit of a vision quest taking place out there on Onion Island, huh? Comments. Now just what is he planning?
Wow too! Yes. Also find it interesting he's feeling so guilty about the Seven. Poor guy - not sure if Stannis will appreciate this. I have no idea but I'm looking forward to it.

17) On first learning of Sansa’s invite from Margaery Tyrell, what did you think her motivation was?
To learn more about Joffrey & Sansa - when they were a couple. And possibly more about the workings of the castle and its affairs.

18) Did Ser Loras really not remember Sansa? I guess I’m a little dense, but I didn’t understand how Sansa had offended Ser Loras by mentioning his unhorsing Robar Royce. Because treachery and conspiracy was involved later that day, therefore he was reminded of her father’s supposed duplicity?
Sansa annoyed me to no end. But how can Ser Loras not remember Sansa or that day - or did the position of intended Queen was all Loras really remembered? I didn't get it either but I got the vibe that he was not really interested in Sansa at all.

19) What did you think of Lady Olenna, Queen of Thorns? Should Sansa have confided in her and her court? Can Sansa trust them? Did you think the song went along with what they were discussing in a macabre sort of way?
I liked her but I'm a bit wary. They wouldn't have gotten far if they were exactly like the Queen described. They would have to be ruthless. I hope that Sansa remembers that - people like her father are very uncommon. TBH, I didn't really follow the song. I was too interested in their talk.

20) Did you feel a little sorry for Sansa, spinning her romantic notions of a knight in shining armor again? Or were you just disgusted with her naïve?
Actually disgusted - I still think she should have gone with the Hound. It just irritates me to no end when she still spins that romantic knight stuff. WTH?! And then I remember the age but it still irritates me. Arya is better in that manner if you ask me.

21) Did you know the turncloak, Mance Rayder, King-beyond-the-Wall, was the one sitting in the middle of the tent playing the lute and singing? Any significance in the song he sang? What did you think of his captains, chiefs? How about that he sent them away and left his wife, Dalla, to listen to their talk?
Nope. Surprised when it was uncovered. Don't have that much impression on them right now. I'm thinking Dalla will be much more clever that it's let on.

22) What do you think of Jon Snow’s “undercover” work? Will he be successful? Will he stay true? Make and alliance between the wildings and the Night’s Watch? Maybe get them to join forces to fight the Others?
I'm a little apprehensive because it has such a big potential to go wrong. The good thing is he is aware of it. I hope he's successful. I want him to be!
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I got as far as finishing the prologue and had to stop -darn work got in the way. I'll make some progress tomorrow.

Totally understand that Barbara! I'm also going through it slowly.

I got through chapter four today and hope to read a little more tonight. I find that regardless of how much I like it, I can only take it in small increments.

I really like Brienne too and I agree with you - how in the world is she going to succeed? And poor Tyrion indeed. It's bad enough he's a dwarf and his family has treated him badly his entire life but this treatment from his father was just disgraceful. I hope Tyrion grows a pair and sticks it to all of them.

I'll post my responses later as I want to read first.

So true! I am also able to read it only in small increments. I've been alternating with two other books. I'm upto page 300 and its getting interesting!

Questions for Prologue - Chapter 3 (Arya)
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1) I always wondered in the back of my mind about how loyal people who were forced to take the black would be to the cause. Were you surprised that a group was ready to rebel?
yes and no. I totally forgot about Chett but his actions aren't a surprise as he's so bitter and violent. I don't see how they can be loyal as their attitude/behavior is what got them to the wall in the first place. We're not talking first class citizens here.

2) When the horn blew for the third time were you surprised? We hadn't heard from the Others in a while and how ironic they show up with the first flakes of snow. I expected it to be the Wildings come a bit early.
Yes. I expected the Wildings too but GRRM does like to surprise us so not a surprise that it was a surprise. :)

3) Brienne seems quite resourceful. Were you surprised by how she took charge and put a hole through the ship with a boulder?
Absolutely! I thought she was abandoning ship. She's a very clever girl.

4) Were you surprised by Jamie being faithful to Cersei? She is definitely not faithful.
Yes maybe it's love after all. creepy as hell but love is love I guess.

5) Who the heck sent someone to kill Bran in his bed? The plot thickens. Could it have been Littlefinger?
I have no idea. I was sure it was either Jamie or Cersei.

6) Surprised Jaime didn't bash Brienne over the head with an oar? I was
I think he was surprised by her cleverness which saved his bacon once again.

7) I'm still confused about what potentially happened to Lysa. Did she have a child before she got married, and, if so whose?
It actually sounds like she had a miscarriage (so much blood) and was then forced to marry. Hey is it possible that Jon Snow is her son?

8) Feeling any sympathy for Lysa?
Not really. I just don't get any good vibes from her at all.

9) Is Sansa doomed? Who did the worse thing Edmure or Catelyn. Both were definitely wrong.
I think Edmure acted without knowing the real situation at Harrenhal. Though neither one is playing with a full deck.

10) We finally know what happened to Ayra. Seems like we pick up on her story were we last heard (which seems a bit out of sync with everything else) of her in the last book. Do you think her wolf is coming back? Do you think the dream was her having a mind meld with her wolf?
I instantly thought mind meld. It's not really a surprise any longer though I do still think it's cool. And I hope her wolf does return.
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Questions for Chapter 4 (Tyrion) – Chapter 7 (Jon)
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11) Poor Tyrion! His face and body so battered. Do you think Ser Bronn will remain faithful? Will he find a connection between Ser Mandon Moore and Queen Cersei? What good will it do, except give him certainty? Think he’ll act on any knowledge gained?
I think Bronn will be faithful as long as he's getting paid. Eventually the connection will be made but to what end? I mean what's the point?

12) What was your initial impression of Ser Addam Marband, commander of the gold cloaks?
Too soon to tell but he sounds like he's Tywin's man so probably not a good thing for Tyrion.

13) What happened to those 'almost warm feelings' the last time Lord Tywin saw Tyrion? Were you surprised Tyrion was so unappreciated by his father? Did it piss you off as much as it did me? Is this Cersei’s doing?
I knew Tywin was using Tyrion for his own gains (as usual). He's been antagonistic Tyrion's whole life why change now. Heck he probably hoped Tyrion would get killed. I didn't know that his mother died at his birth though that explains some of the animosity.

14) Think Lord Tywin is going to pay for his treatment of Alayaya? Is it possible you are now even more worried about Shae being discovered?
Yes. Shae is in great danger. Tyrion needs to get them out of King's Landing quickly. I don't honestly know what kind of retaliation Tyrion can really do but he'll definitely do something.

15) Were you surprised Tyrion asked for Casterly Rock? What about Lord Tywin's response? Think Tyrion will possess it one day?
I think Tyrion deserves it but unless he takes it by force, it will never be his.

16) Davos is still alive! Wow. Little bit of a vision quest taking place out there on Onion Island, huh? Comments. Now just what is he planning?
I was surprised that he wasn't rescued by the other smuggler (can't remember his name). It sounds like he's going after Melisandre. hmm that should be interesting.

17) On first learning of Sansa’s invite from Margaery Tyrell, what did you think her motivation was?
I don't know but I didn't think it was going to be good for Sansa. I thought more Cersei type intrigue.

18) Did Ser Loras really not remember Sansa? I guess I’m a little dense, but I didn’t understand how Sansa had offended Ser Loras by mentioning his unhorsing Robar Royce. Because treachery and conspiracy was involved later that day, therefore he was reminded of her father’s supposed duplicity?
I couldn't understand his abrupt change in demeanor either other than distancing himself from Sansa (she is kinda a pariah).

19) What did you think of Lady Olenna, Queen of Thorns? Should Sansa have confided in her and her court? Can Sansa trust them? Did you think the song went along with what they were discussing in a macabre sort of way?
I couldn't figure out her angle. And trust them? not if she's smart. And why ask all those questions about Joffrey and yet marry him anyway. I didn't pay any attention to the song. These books are so long that I browse over that stuff.

20) Did you feel a little sorry for Sansa, spinning her romantic notions of a knight in shining armor again? Or were you just disgusted with her naïve?
Sansa's so hopeful of a HEA that it's sad and I pity her. She's obviously a lame brain who never learns. She wants it so bad that she's blind to reality and danger.

21) Did you know the turncloak, Mance Rayder, King-beyond-the-Wall, was the one sitting in the middle of the tent playing the lute and singing? Any significance in the song he sang? What did you think of his captains, chiefs? How about that he sent them away and left his wife, Dalla, to listen to their talk?
Nope. I can't get a handle on what's really going on here. But Dalla might be important some how (Mance left her to hear for a reason.)

22) What do you think of Jon Snow’s “undercover” work? Will he be successful? Will he stay true? Make and alliance between the wildings and the Night’s Watch? Maybe get them to join forces to fight the Others?
As much as Jon wants to return to Winterfell, I think he's loyal to the black through and through. Yes I think he will be successful thought not without difficulty. And yes I think he will make an alliance between the Wildings and the watch. What's the point of this whole endeavor otherwise?
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I'm following the questions because it helps me focus on the little things that usually slip right past me. I'm really liking the set up but wondering where we're headed.

Questions for Chapter 8 (Daenerys) - Chapter 11 (Jaime)
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23.Do you think Ser Jorah is right not to trust Whitebeard? (Just an observation, since there was so little of Dany in the previous book, I liked how there was a paragraph recapping what she’s been through.)
I agree as it's tough to remember little details of sparse characters. I think it's more correct to wonder if she should trust Illyrio. Whitebeard is merely a pawn and as such is subject to betrayal for gold. I wouldn't trust anyone in her case but she's right. You get nowhere if you don't take risks.

24.We now know that Dany enjoys feeding her dragons in the nude (ha ha!). What a visual: the dragons roasting their own meat! That would come in handy at barbecues. Did you expect Ser Jorah to make a move on Dany? Do you think she will accept his proposal? I think she will be like Queen Elizabeth I and be only wed to her country.
I thought it bizarre that she kept herself covered (it was mentioned twice about covers slipping) and then to just get up butt naked in front of him. She knows he loves her so what was she thinking. Though I was surprised that he kissed her as he's usually so controlled. No I don't think she will accept his proposal.

25.Sounds like Bran is really getting the hang of using his third eye. I am unclear on why they are traveling beyond the wall. Who are they looking for (a person who can teach Bran)? Do we know specifically? I wish we could see how Rickon and Osha are faring!
Yes he's going beyond the wall to be taught be three-eyed crow (whoever that is). Hoping to learn what his gift entails.

26.More confusion: Davos believes that Melisandre sent the fire on the battleships, but it was the “wildfire”, right? Or did Melisandre just add to it?
It was wildfire but Davos doesn't know that. He suspects Melisandre of every evil thing.

27.Do you think Salladhor Saan betrayed Davos? Will Davos live to get his revenge on Melisandre?
I don't think Salladhor betrayed him. Melisandre has magic and she probably saw it in her crystal ball or whatever she uses.

28.Did anyone else think, “I‘ve got a bad feeling about this” when the Kingslayer was allowed to get on a horse? Even with wrist chains, the man is crafty!
I agree - something is definitely going to happen soon. I don't think he'll kill Brienne though but he'll definitely incapacitate her.

29.Bit of a digression…in this chapter Elia of Dorne is mentioned (wife of Rhaegar). Does Mance Rayder’s song about the Dornishman’s wife have something to do with her or someone related to her?
Hmm interesting thought. No idea though.

30.So, we learn that Jaime had almost been betrothed to Lysa Tully (interesting!) and that he joined the Kingsguard because Cersei wanted him too (manipulative b-tch!) Do you think Tywin knew about the twins’ relationship? Is that why he resigned as Hand and took Cersei back to Casterly Rock?
I'm sure he did and tried his darndest to separate them.

31.Thoughts on Jaime killing the King? Sounds like Aerys wanted Jaime to kill his own father. I am wondering about the plan leading up to the assassination. Jaime is called Kingslayer, but many were in on the plot, no?
I think Tywin was the instigator not Jamie. It's unreal that Aerys wanted him to kill his own father. These people are so twisted.
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Questions for Chapter 12 (Tyrion) - Chapter 15 (Jon)
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32) Laughed at Vary's dressing up as a woman.
Finally some levity!

33) Do you think Tyrion will use the steps in Vary's bedroom to his advantage in the future?
Of course. He spent so much time wondering and hunting. He'll surely use them.

34) I'm thinking Shae will be Tyrion's downfall. Anyone else?
Absolutely. He loves her and wants her to be happy but safe.

35) Cersei is such a tease. She is doing what she told Sansa she does - bear a different kind of weapon. There is a word for women like her.
huh? no idea what this is referencing.

36) Here's a thought, after pondering Lisa's thoughts about Tyrion's dad, could he have tried to get rid of his son by framing him? Could he have sent the assassin after Bran?
There's no one else so possibly.

37) What do you think of Arya's new "friends"? Should she have revealed herself to Harwin? Who the heck is he with?
I hope she's finally had some luck but it seems like Harlin is with a rough crowd so maybe out of the frying pan and into the fire after all.

38) I think Robb just signed his own death warrant. He did a stupid thing. Anyone else agree?
Yup. love is a dangerous and stupid emotion at least in Westeros.

39) Gah! Who the heck is Tansy and do we really care?
Nope but she'll turn out to be important anyway.

40) Seems like we have a bit of a problem communicating our ideas in Kingdom Robb. Wonder how Robb's uncle likes being bossed around by his nephew?
Not at all. Let's hope he doesn't rebel.

41) Jon is having problems of a feminine nature. Talk about blackmail. Any thoughts on this? Think wedding bells are in Jon's future?
Probably will be forced to by Mance. Jon's too honorable to sleep with her without marrying her so he'd probably do it on his own anyway.

42) Mammoths and Giants! How fun. Wonder if the Mammoth is a Sigil of any houses?
I wonder what kind of creatures are with the Others besides zombies. I loved the description of the giants - how gruesome they sound.
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I'm on page 330 so I'm getting there. It'll be interesting to see how GRRM's ties all these events together.

Questions for Chapter 16 (Sansa) - Chapter 19 (Tyrion)
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43) Should Sansa have left with Ser Dontos?
I believe so. I don't trust the Tyrells. Something is up but I can't figure out what.

44) Well this answers my previous question - Arya should not have trusted the band of theives. Do you think Gendry will come to her aid?
I don't know how he'd do anything against these ruffians so no I don't think so.

45) Like how Sam managed to rise to the occasion and kill the Other. Interesting thing about the obsidian. Weren't the arrowheads and things that Jon found in the buried box also made of obsidian?
I believe so.

46) Looks like the black brothers are no more. Those left are fleeing for their lives. I don't think we know exactly who all survived. Sounded like Sam sent messages when they were first attacked and then let the rest of the birds free. Wonder what those who were warned will think? Do you think they'll believe the Others have returned?
No idea who survived. A few messages got out but not the most important one. I think they will believe because of the zombie that attacked Jon.

47)Thoughts about Sansa marrying Tyrion? She will freak. Anyone see this one coming?
Nope. It's a total surprise. Sansa will definitely flip as Tyrion is so not her knightly ideal. Though she'll have absolutely nothing to say about it.

48) Cersei being forced to marry? That is precious. I think her father is looking to punish her. Do you think she'll marry or refuse?
It seems like a punishment to me. And a cripple at that! I don't think she can refuse but maybe she can convince Tywin of another possible male.

49) Tywin knows what Robb did. Anyone else thinking we'll be seeing an end to Robb's reign?
I honestly didn't see him winning anyway. Defeating the Lannisters will take more than Robb has - in men and brains (heck he's only 16 or so). Tywin is a sneaking bugger with lots of powerful friends and family.
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Questions for Chapter 20 (Catelyn) – Chapter 23 (Daenerys)
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50) Well Martin didn’t sugarcoat it, did he? That was quite a descriptive passage of a brutal assassination, IMHO. Did you know who the two young boys were before it was revealed?
Yes because they had just talked about them at King's Landing.

51) Book quote: “How can it be treason to kill Lannisters, when it is not treason to free them?” Whoa! No cut-and-paste caricatures here. Did you think this arguing point, made by Karstark, had any validity?
No he was just jealous because Robb didn't kill Catelyn for an offense he thought was similar which it wasn't.

52) Did you believe that King Robb would hold Karstark as a hostage or kill him? Were you surprised he wielded the poleaxe himself? He has a lot of his father in him, does he not? Will this bring about his downfall?
I figured Robb would kill him and I knew he would do it himself as Eddard taught him that in the first chapter of the first book. He's loosing allies left and right so he's definitely in major trouble.

53) Book quote: “Bowmen are fearless so long as they can hide behind walls and shoot at you from afar, but if you come at them, they run.” Seems Jaime is not above teaching Brienne. Comments on this and their forest fight scene?
I loved the fight scene especially since Brienne won! She's saved his butt a few times and I think he's grateful though he'd never actually show it.

54) Jaime thinks of returning Sansa, for his own amusement, doesn’t believe Brienne deserves gang-raping, and wants her to stretch the truth about her Sapphire Isle to save her hide. Does he have any redeeming qualities? Sounds like the “methage” Vargo Hoat would send Lord Tywin is a body part of Jaime’s. Any idea what part world make him scream like that?
Well they held his bound hands out so maybe a finger or even a hand. Though would they dare to cripple the King's son? Apparently he does have some redeeming qualities but he's a Lannister so they are few and far between.

55) I have long been trying to figure out whose side Lord Beric Dondarrion, of Blackhaven, is on. He was sent out by Lord Stark, when he was Hand to the King, to capture Ser Gregor Clegane. Now Arya finds out Lord Beric was hanged, but Thoros revived him. It appears he is out for himself now – well, and the people in his vicinity – correct?
It seems that way.

56) Poor Arya, she (and me) doesn’t know who has switched sides – or when – in all these battles, assassinations, and political power plays. Are you keeping them all straight?
No one stays loyal in GRRM's world so it's hard to keep track.

57) I think Gendry thought Arya, after a fierce scrubbing and trimming, looked pretty appealing and didn’t know how to handle it. You? I think this has been asked before, but do you think there's potential for a romantic relationship between Arya and Gendry? Talk about a one-two punch. Now they would have some clout, correct?
As grownup as Arya seems, she's only 10 but a relationship with Gendry would have interesting consequences.

58) Was I the only one smiling over Arya’s comment about her Needle work?
Nope - very clever girl.

59) The slaver, Kraznys mo Nakloz, said “whore” one too many times (IMHO); think he will pay for that bit of jackassery?
I surely hope so. What an ass!

60) Book Quote: Tap, tap, tap. Who the hell is Whitebeard?
No idea.

61) Were you impressed that Dany didn’t consign her “handling” by Irri as a dream, nor her as a bedslave, and told her so?
No. What's to be impressed about. Wasn't Irri a sex slave before? Well now she's not and Dany told her so. It was just an aberration.

62) Book quote: Dany did not turn. She could not bear to look at him just now. If she did, she might well slap him again. Or cry. Or kiss him. And never know which was right and which was wrong and which was madness. So far a kiss and a slap; Ser Jorah did stir up some emotions in Dany. Comments.
Sex will always prevail. Once you have it (especially if it's good) you want it again. Dany's had a rough time and ser Jorah sparked a fire but he's too old for her and she'll hold out for someone worthy, powerful or helpful to her cause.

63) Man-oh-man! Dany is smack-dab in the middle of a dilemma. We know how she detests slavery. Whatever will her decision be?
She'll buy them (somehow) and give them their freedom hoping they'll still fight for her.
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I'm around there too. I'm back in Singapore finally and a little busy today shopping and setting up. I'll post answers tmrw

No rush Vi. I just find it interesting to see how you view certain events.

Questions for Chapter 24 (Bran) - Chapter 27 (Daenerys)
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64) We finally have a Bran chapter where something useful is found. Yay! Do you think the group will continue to the wall? What do you think they'll find?
They are headed in that direction but will they actually get there is my question.

65) The story the of the Knight and the Laughing Tree - Could it have been about Lyanna and how the Starks became friends with the Reeds (did I get everyone straight?)?
possibly. I kept wondering why JoJen kept asking if Ned had told the story before.

66) Think Davos will allow himself to become a shadow baby? Did she make a good argument for herself? Is Melisandre's offer of pleasure enough to sway him? I cringed at that one. Can't imagine anyone wanting to close and personal with her after seeing her birth a shadow baby. Talk about a mood spoiler. Gah!
I can't see Davos agreeing to be a shadow baby. He was horrified and traumatized at viewing the birth of the other one.

67) Do you think Stannis is still alive? No one has seen him for awhile.
If he is, he's incapacitated probably by Melisadre as apparently she is now in charge.

68) Now we find Stannis' Hand has been imprisoned for treason. Do you think it's treason?
From Stannis' perspective, yes as he'll never yield but it's probably the safest course of action...if he wants to live that is.

69) Lord Alester has rings. Could he be the mysterious man Arya saw in the first book? I'm not sure the rest of the description fits.
Anything is possible because Stannis and his hand (I assume) where at King's Landing at that time.

70) Putting on my fortune telling hat (or would that be scarves) and predicting that Ygritte will die and Jon will step into the role his destiny was supposed to take. Any thoughts? I agree with whoever said they don't like Ygritte. I don't either, and I don't know why.
Hmmm could be. Jon is honorable so I definitely see him going back to the black.

71) Did anyone else wonder at one time if Ygritte, at the beginning, was being used as a tool to secure Jon's loyalty? After this chapter, however, I really believe she loves him.
I thought she was performing a role now I think she just approached the only available outsider. She said sex with the Wildlings was incest so she hasn't had it in 5 years. Jon was just convenient and available.

72) Did you get upset when Dany offered up Dragos?
I had tears in my eyes and couldn't believe she'd part with one of her babies.

73) Did you see the Dragon attack coming? I wondered, but wasn't sure how it'd play out.
I thought she'd turn her new slaves against the slavers not the dragons.

74) Thoughts on Dany's statement,"Justice...that's what Kings are for."
In a perfect world. But most men of power are greedy buggers and justice plays second fiddle.

75) What did you think of the warning and who do you think the woman was who uttered it? I'm thinking Melisandre.
I thought it was Xaro Xhoam Daxos. Did she say something similar when in Qarthe?

76) Who is your favorite character at this point?
It's a toss up between Arya and Jon.
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Questions for Chapter 28 (Sansa) - Chapter 31(Jaime)
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77) I feel so bad for both Sansa and Tyrion. What an awful position for the two of them to be put in. Sansa doesn't trust any of the Lannisters and can't see past the outer shell of Tyrion to his inner beauty. Tyrion has wedded a 12 year old girl. He sees it like it is and doesn't force her. Gotta love him and feel awful for him at the same time. Curse you Cersei and Tywin! Okay got my meladramatic moment out of the way. :)
I agree. It's terrible what Tywin and Cersei have done. Shame on them.

78) The Tyrells acted like Sansa had the plague. Do you think they thought she knew she'd be wed to Tyrion?
No. There's no way anyone saw that coming. Though now I see that the Tyrells were in on the scheme.

79) Joffrey disgusts me. I hope he gets his in the end. He's one character I wouldn't miss. Anyone else agree?
Off with his head! what a creep.

80) Loved Tyrion's standing his ground and not allowing them to have a traditional bedding. Do you think not having sealed the deal will prove to be a mistake for both of them?
Probably because Sansa will be the first to tell that Tyrion didn't consummate the marriage.

81) Tansy's secret identity is finally revealed. Now what the heck does she have to do with anything? Okay here's something I've been pondering for a while. Could she be Tyrion's Tysha? His first wife? I know crazy, right?
If she's Tyrion's Tysha why is Catelyn's father calling out her name? Could she be his bastard daughter and if so, from who?

82) I think Gendry has a crush on Arya. He acted awful strange when she said he wasn't her brother. Could she like him too? I think the Lady doth protest too much.:)
I'm sure Arya has a crush on Gendry and Arya has certainly grown on Gendry.

83) Arya seems to once again be in the frying pan. I'm worried for her. Is anyone else?
Arya has been in deep trouble since she left King's Landing with no obvious way out. Someone needs to rescue her!

84) I now know why I dislike Ygritte. She keeps telling Jon he knows nothing. Getting a bit annoyed by that.
I bet Jon's getting annoyed too.

85) The Horn of Winter - I think I know what happened to it, but does Jon have it?
No. Didn't Jon give the horn to Samwell?

86) Jaime is proving himself to be a nice guy. Darn him. I can't believe he lost his hand. I feel awful for him. Liked his statement that Brienne was his protector. I'm extremely sad the two won't be able to sword fight again. *sniff* Any thoughts on what happened and about the new knowledge we gained?
What do they say about karma? And in witchcraft, doesn't anything bad you do come back on you three-fold? I do feel bad for him though as like all heroes, he does have a soft side. Let's hope he learns something from these horrific experiences.
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Barbara, I'm still here and reading. I had a set of answers prepared but my Browser died and so did the answers. It was sooooo frustrating that I wanted to throw something at it. Bad Browser.

I'll post them tomorrow morning. (Night here)

I haven't read this since April 14. Big books are so daunting that I hesitate to pick them up when it is quicker and easier to read something smaller. :)

I've been trying to read this at work since it's easier to concentrate. I have 6 cats and they tend to bother me and ASoS is too complicated to stop every other paragraph. Work has been busy so I've fallen behind but I'll get back into it tomorrow.

That's ok Barbara. I agree about Big Book - it feels like I never do (read) something worth whereas with small books at least I have the pleasure of closing one book.

I've been reading 2-4 chapters a day and getting through it slowly. And settling into a new place means I have tons of things to do - shopping endlessly for things missed, explore nearby area and generally setting up the house. So take your time reading - I am too.

6 cats?!! Wow! I've never had a pet at all. I wanted one when I was younger but neither my parents nor my grandparents were obliging. Now I do think of getting one but it has to be later. I'm in awe.

Cats are easy. They basically raise themselves. I just provide the tender loving care and change the cat boxes every other day (all 4 of them). ;)

I'm about halfway (page 544). When I read it, I read 2 sets of questions so about 6 or 7 chapters at a time. I need to finish it in April so I'll keep at it at work and read something else at home. The division helps me keep the separate books separate.

Moving sucks especially if you have tons of books like I do. I remember moving here (about 2 years ago) and the books themselves where the worst of it. After throwing the rest of my things where they belong, the books and bookshelves took priority. I'm OCD enough that everything has to be alphabetized - regular paperbacks together in the bedroom and hardcovers and oversized paperbacks together in the living room.

Once my books were set I was happy, everything else didn't really matter. That's a booky for ya.

You know it's bad enough that there are like a million characters in this series but does GRRM have to give most of them nicknames too? I'm having a hell of a time keeping track of who is who. Why the heck can't he just use their darn name?

Questions for Chapter 32(Tyrion) - Chapter 35 (Catelyn)
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87) I felt so bad for Tyrion when his feelings were displayed about the kind of marriage he wanted with Sansa.
I feel bad for him too because I really like him. But he is never going to have that kind of relationship with Sansa as she's too vain and/or materialistic to see the positives in marrying a Lannister. And the best of the bunch at that.

88) Guess Jaime isn't going to need that second sword. Notice how Lord Tywin didn't offer it to Tyrion.
I don't think Tywin knows yet as Jamie still have his hand. If Tywin knew, I think he would have reacted violently and I don't believe he has yet.

89) I don't know about anyone else but I'm pretty suspicious of the singer. Does he have an ulterior motive? He and Tyrion's girl seem to know way more than they should. Could they be spies or something worse? Remember how she wanted access to the wedding as well?
Yup something is definitely up. I don't think Shae loves him after all. (Her reaction or non-reaction to his marriage was rather telling).

90) Now know the messages said nothing about the others. Wonder where the Others are now?
I don't know. If the wildlings are at the wall, they should have encountered the Others, shouldn't they? Maybe the Others can magically disappear or could that have already gone over the wall?

91) Does anyone remember Janos Slynt? Is he the one who had a problem with Jon?
He was Cersei's man and Tyrion sent him to the wall when he was culling her spies.

92) Anyone else shocked by the death of Ser Mormont and Craster?
OMG I can't believe they snapped like that. Were these guys part of Chett's plot to get out of the Black?

93) Samwell and Gilly? What do you make of the escape? As a mom of three children my first thought was, "Ouch!" I can't imagine going on a journey after just giving birth. Will she be able to help him get to the wall? Traveling with a new born? Will all of them make it?
He's such a coward that I can't see any woman with him. But maybe he'll step up and finally find some courage when he's forced to protect Gilly and the baby. I think they'll make it but it will be a very difficult journey.

94) Who are Cater's sons? That sounded questionable.
The sons were given to the Gods. Could they have been rescued by Others?

95) What did you think of the confrontation between the Hound and Arya?
It was long overdue. He wanted her to kill him and was actually egging her on but Arya blew it by hesitating and giving them a chance to disarm her. He's on her prayer list so she should just have done it.

96) The men they're with still baffle me. Are they good or bad? They say they're Robert's men. What does that mean and what will they do with Arya?
I don't know. They seem to waffle back and forth. Robert's dead so if they are the King's men, does that make them Lannister's men?

97) Would you trust the Freys? Weren't one of the boys killed part Frey? I don't think I'd trust them.
No. This sounds like a setup but for what, I have no idea.
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Questions for Chapter 36 Davos – Chapter 39 (Arya)
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98.It’s refreshing to see Stannis awake and lucid. How surprised were you that he asked Davos to be Hand of the King? Why do you suppose Stannis trusts Davos so much?
Davos has always told Stannis the truth regardless of offending him so his choice makes sense but I definitely wasn't expecting it.

99. Melisandre asks Stannis for “the boy” so she can wake the “stone dragon.” Is “the boy” Edric? What is the “stone dragon?” Do you think she’s asking for a sacrifice or just drops of blood? (My guess is sacrifice.) Were you surprised that Stannis told her no?
I agree with sacrifice and I am surprised that Stannis said no. Robert has tons of bastards. Isn't a bastard still a threat to the throne?

100.I continue to be surprised by and impressed with Jaime. He tells Brienne he killed Aerys to prevent him from burning King’s Landing. Why didn’t he tell anyone? He says he didn’t because he swore to keep the king’s secrets, but the guy was dead for goodness’ sake! I think Jaime could have saved his reputation if everyone had known about this.
Then why did he keep silent? Maybe he likes the bad boy image and the notoriety.

101.I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Jaime has he tries to eat one-handed. I’m getting worried for Brienne since Bolton plans to send her to Vargo, and send Jaime to King’s Landing. I hope she comes up with a brilliant escape plan!
Jamie's in for a tough life one-handed. Heck he can't even get dressed or eat by himself now. Vargo is so going to pay for this. I don't even want to think about what Vargo is going to do to Brienne. *shudders*

102.Just an observation: Brienne is learning that oaths don’t mean much. She’s disappointed that Jaime, Robb and Tyrion have all broken their promises. Do you think now she will be more wary and less naïve?
I should hope so. It sucks to lose your naivete and have to grow up in the cold cruel world.

103. Roose Bolton says that Arya has been found and will be returned safely to the North. Does he know that Arya was the girl who had been serving him? I think not.
He will when he sees her and then what?

104.Well, now we have even more reason to hate Cersei if the story of Tyrion as a baby that Prince Oberyn told is true. Do you believe the story, or do you think Oberyn is trying to turn Tyrion against Cersei (not that he hasn’t already turned against her!). It’s really hard to fathom a 9-year-old girl being so cruel to her own baby brother! I like how Jaime came to Tyrion’s defense (in the tale).
I think it's true. There is nothing sisterly or even human about Cersei. She totally hates him now and I'm sure then as well. As the baby, Tyrion would have garnered a lot of attention and taken it off the twins (for a while at least) so yeah I see her resenting the hell out of him and he's ugly too! Yup no brotherly love here.

105.How will Cersei react to the new wedding guests?
Cersei is smart enough to see the danger and be incensed that the Dorne's are pulling this crap at her son's royal wedding.

106.Why do they keep letting the Hound go? He’s nothing but trouble!
I agree but GRRM is keeping him alive for a reason. God help everyone!

107.Were you surprised Gendry wanted to stay with the outlaws rather than serve at Riverrun?
Yes, WTH was that about? Who is at Riverrun that he is hiding from?
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I went offline and I finished the book yesterday. It seemed to take forever and I decided to sit and read it. Whew! The ending is very..... eventful I should say. I can't wait for your thoughts.

@Answers to Chp 24-29
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Dany giving up Drogos - I couldn't believe what I read. I read it THRICE. But how she handled it - I'm a little conflicted about it.

I would've said Tyrion, Jon or Arya for favorites.
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@YOur Answers to Chapter 28-31
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I'm really hating Sansa. I agree the forced marriage to Tyrion would not be her dreams but man, couldn't she see she's gotten a better deal? Tyrion would atleast be just to her. I so want to bash her head in.

GRRM is wicked. He made me sympathize to Jaime atleast for a while but I still HATE Cersei. God, these people are twisted.

Arya and Gendry - something is brewing for sure there.
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@Your Answers to Chap 32-35
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The incident with Craster - man, I couldn't believe. Nor did I really relish the prospect of Gilly and Samwell. Really, the man is such a coward.

Reg the sons - I will get back to that again in a while.

Reg the Hound - I'm a little pathetic but I wanted Hound to change. His attitude towards Sansa was nice and I thought then (and still do) that she should have left with him when he offered. She's an idiot for sure.

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I will post my answers tomorrow morning. Sorry I haven't checked in a while but I had visitors over the weekend and it got crazy. I have another round coming in tomorrow but I should be able to manage this.

No worries as I'm only halfway through anyway (p622). I'm hoping to finish this week.

I've greatly disliked Sansa from the first book and my attitude hasn't changed.

Questions for Chapter 40 (Bran) - Chapter 43 (Arya)
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108) I can't believe how close Bran and Jon were to each other. Seems to be another think Martin likes to do. Always so close yet so far.
Even if they did meet, Bran wouldn't be safe with the Wildlings, who still don't trust Jon. He would become a hostage or Jon would be forced to kill him.

109) "Aye," said Jojen, "but one man willing to forswear himself would be enough to sell your secret to the ironmen or the Bastard of Bolton."
Anyone else think this might be some foreshadowing? I thought of Janos Slynt when I read it.
Janos didn't cross my mind but now that you mention it, I'm kinda worried.

110) Surprised Jon wouldn't kill the old man or are you more surprised he bolted and left the Wildings?
Jon is honorable and there was no honor in killing an old defenseless man who had done nothing to them. I was surprised he left without Ygritte though.

111) Do you think Ygritte and Jon are too different for it ever to have worked out?
I couldn't see them together for long. After all, how long can someone stand being told "you know nothing"? Also as a Black, he can't have a wife or family so it had to end at some point anyway. At least here, it's on his terms.

112) Do you think he learned enough to leave?
Yes I think he learned enough. Magnar is determined to kill everyone who opposes them. The Thenn's will do whatever he says so really what more could Jon learn.

113) What did you think of Dany's battle plans?
Very clever. She brought them all to her, learned their strengths and weaknesses and used that against them. Brilliant!

114) Thought of how she told Ser Jorah to stop his possessive/jealous behavior? Was it the right thing to do?
Yes she's tried being nice many times and he just ignored her. Force was necessary to get him to realize it wasn't going to ever happen.

115) Thoughts on Daario Nahris? Lovely present he brought Dany.
Well Dany certainly liked him. It should be interesting to see where it goes.

116) We learned more about Rheagar. Still we don't have the full story.
Eventually we will.

117) Darn it my theory about Jon was wrong. Drats! I liked my theory about his birth more.
Could Jon be Rhaegar and Lysanne's (?) son?

118) Darn it just when I thought Arya might be headed for safety Sandor kidnaps her. Noooooooooo!
Uh oh. Arya's in the frying pan again.
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Questions for Chapter 44 (Jaime) to Chapter 47 (Arya)
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119. In a flashback we see that Jaime realized he was chosen for the Kingsguard merely to spite Tywin. How do you think this affected him? Perhaps he wanted to kill Aerys long before Robert’s troops closed in.
It's terrible to find out you weren't wanted for yourself or your strengths.

120. Jaime continues his road to sainthood by rescuing Brienne from a bear. Next he will rescue drowning puppies and save Timmy from a burning building. :-) Why do you think he went back to Harrenhall? Could it be he cares (not romantically, just in a “brotherhood” kind of way)? Has Jaime truly changed since he pushed Bran out the window? How much does losing his hand have to do with his 180?
I find myself liking Jamie more and more but I'm sure it won't last. Yeah he's done terrible things but his time in prison has given him ample time for reflection. He's still sarcastic and mean at times but he definitely has a soft spot for Brienne.

121. Uh-oh. The old crone predicted that Riverrun would be taken, and here we have Robb keeping his wife and her family “safe” at Riverrun while he goes to Edmure’s wedding. Over and over we are told how safe it is. I have a bad feeling about this.
I agree someone's going to come unexpectedly and conquer Riverrun. hmmm but who?

122. I wanted to high-five Robb when he told Catelyn he was going to name Jon Snow his heir! I fear this means the end of Robb is near, though. I was bothered at Catelyn taking this so personally. She felt trapped by this. I am not sure why she felt this way.
Catelyn hates Jon and plainly showed him this so I think she fears what will happen to her if(when) Jon inherits.

123. Samwell prays to the Gods for help and lo and behold the ravens save him and Gilly from the wights. Coincidence? Who was the mysterious elk-rider?
No idea. Could it be Benjen?

124. I enjoyed watching Arya trying to kill and/or escape the Hound. Did you know he was taking her to her mother? Since he had been relatively kind to Sansa, it makes sense he wouldn’t be too cruel to Arya. I’m glad his goal is to get her to the Twins instead of Riverrun. GRRM is probably just teasing us again,though.
I figured he was taking her to Riverrun because deep down I think the Hound is honorable but yeah GRRM is probably screwing with us once again.
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Questions for Chapter 48 (Jon) - Chapter 51 (Catelyn)
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125)Poor Jon. Finds out about the false reports about Bran andd Rickon and finds out what happened to Mormont. Plus, the wall is almost deserted. I'm a little worried that the wall will be overtaken while Jon is out of it. Were you surprised to find some of the brothers had returned and told the story of what happened?
Yes. I was surprised any of them made it back alive.

126) Jon's confession about Ygritte shows how he feels guilty about what happened. Think a Jon junior will result from their relationship?
Jon's honorable but he did what he had to do for his brothers. I hope there isn't a Jon Jr as that would be very distressing for Jon the bastard.

127) I can't believe, well yes I can, what happened to Robb and Catelyn. Got an uneasy feeling when Frey made the speech about not forgetting things.
I don't trust the Frey's and haven't since they were first introduced. Walder Frey is an evil person. This bride is too sweet when Frey has perfectly hideous girls to offer. Something is definitely up.

128) What do you think happened to Edmure? If he's not dead how will he react to finding his sister and nephew murdered?
Well I guess that's why they offered him the best of the girls. They never intended the marriage to last.

129) I guess we now know why they wanted Robb's wife with him.
Yup a clean sweep.

130) Poor Arya. Once again she can't get a break. What do you think will happen to her?
Well GRRM has killed off most of the good guys so maybe he'll spare Arya.

131) Thoughts about the hound? Will he try to sell her off again, and, if so, to who?
Maybe he'll bring her back to the Lannister's.
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Questions for Chapter 52 (Arya) - Chapter 55 (Jon)
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132) I felt so bad for Arya. Do you think she's okay? I wonder why they didn't just lump this chapter in with the previous Arya chapter?
"His axe took her in the back of the head." Sounds to me like he killed her.

133) Sounded like Edmure is alive, but Riverun will be taken away or did I get that wrong? Poor Tyrion. If Sansa didn't hate him before she might now.
"Roslin caught a fine fat trout." sounds like she'll keep him but the Lannister's are planning to take Riverrun so where does that leave Roslin?

134) Interesting to find Tywin is drugging Joffrey. Anyone else surprised?
Cersei might be Queen but Tywin is king not Joffrey. Talk about a puppet master.

135) More information about the fall of the Targaryens. What do you make of it?
Are these the kind of people you want ruling? Ruthless, heartless murders. I'm so glad I didn't live in these times.

136) Arya and Roose Bolton? Thoughts? Gah!
Arya's like what 13? She's not even bleeding yet and Bolton has to be 40+. Yuk that's as bad as incest.

137) 2 of the kings Melisandre promised would die have. Is Joffrey next?
Joffrey cannot be allowed to be king. Heck Tywin won't allow it. So yeah I'm thinking he'll be next.

138) Thoughts about Davos and if Joffrey does die will the Edric then be sacrificed?
It sounds more and more like Stannis is going to allow Edric's death. I certainly hope someone stops him.

139) So it looks like Davos will not tell Stannis about the Wall? I wonder why?
If the wildlings take care of the north, that is one less thing he'll have to do. Though I would think this is good news for the Stannis camp.

140)Love the scarecrows.
Me too. very clever.

141) The battle at the wall was like the last showdown. Were you surprised the brothers won? Were you surprised Ygritte died? At least I think she died. I can't be certain until she's truly buried.
I figured Ygritte would die as a relationship was impossible in the long run. I also figured the Black would win though I was rather surprised on the method. I thought for sure they were done for before that thrilling little bit.
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GRRM's killed off most of the good characters. Who's left?
Davos - I don't like him.
Stannis - I don't like him either.
Lannister's - yuk
Frey's - treacherous idiots
the Hound and the Mountain - murderous idiots
Daenrys - at least I like her.

I'm so not liking where this book is headed.

Questions for Chapter 56 (Bran) through Chapter 59 (Sansa)
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142. Did anyone think that Sam and Gilly were hiding in the well? I was completely surprised by that.
I was totally shocked to see them climb out of the well.

143. I can’t remember….did Jon, Sam and the other Night’s Watchmen know about Bran and Rickon being “murdered?” Sam doesn’t seem too surprised that Bran is alive.
Sam doesn't know because he hasn't been back to the wall since it happened. The Maester told Jon when he returned.

144. More info on the Elk Rider: He has cold hands; he was sent to find someone; he can’t pass beyond the wall due to a spell; he wears black and is as pale as a wight; he speaks (as opposed to wights who do not); he knows about the black gate; he was sent to find someone, and that someone is not Sam. Meera was startled when she heard about him. Who/what is he? Jojen says that Bran is the one Sam was told to bring. What makes Jojen think this? Did he dream it?
Elk Rider? hmmm not sure but maybe it's this three-eyed person Jojen dreamed of. If he's so great maybe he can see through dreams too.

145. Oh, Dany. Why does she think it’s so important to take the city of Meereen? It sounds like there are no practical ways to take the city. On the other hand, if they march, much of her group could die of disease or starvation. Sounds like she’s got quite the problem on her hands.
I think she wants it just because of slavery and the 163 murdered children nailed to trees. Besides they need the foodstuffs and probably a place to rest for a while.

146. Thoughts on Dany’s “admiration” of Daario? It kind of gives me the creeps.
Well she was married to Drogo and loved him. enough said.

147. Who was the Titan’s Bastard? I can’t remember!
One of the leader's from the Yunkai fight. the one who insulted her and wouldn't join her. A truly vile person.

148. Did anyone think that Whitebeard was Berristan Selmy? You smart ladies knew he had to be someone important, and I recall someone asked about Selmy recently.
I was shocked especially when his history (betrayal of Rhaegar) was learned.

149. Dany feels betrayed by both Selmy and Jorah, even though both have proven to be loyal allies and protectors. Is she right to still suspect them? Did we know that Jorah was in cahoots with Varys early on? (This was made clear in the TV series, but I can’t recall if it was made clear in the books until this chapter.) What will Dany do now?? The next Dany chapter is too far away!
It's tough to get past betrayal but she needs both of them so she must forgive them. After all, they did save her life many times.

150. Is anyone else surprised that Tyrion keeps taking the risk of seeing Shae? Does Sansa have a clue at all about her?
Tyrion is a man with a man's needs. Sansa isn't putting out so no it's not a surprise at all. And no I'm sure Sansa is clueless.

151. Joffrey is such a little sh-t. He behaves like a 2-year old. I was amazed that Tyrion held is tongue while Joffrey offended Sansa and sliced the rare book. Interesting that Tyrion said Viserys should have been included in Kaeth’s book. Viserys had poisoned his nephew Baelor to save the realm. Seems like Tyrion wants to do the same.
Joffrey is beyond a spoiled brat. Someone needs to kill that idiot before he does real harm.
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Questions for Chapter 60 (Tyrion) to Chapter 63 (Davos)
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152. Tyrion concluded King Joffrey was behind the assassination attempt on Bran. Do you think this is true?
It makes perfect sense since the attempt was so amateurish and failed. I honestly don't think the Lannister's would have failed.

153. Tyrion’s has been unappreciated for his role in the victory of the Battle of the Blackwater, despises by the inhabitants of Kings’ Landing, given a wife who doesn’t want him, been made the butt of jests of at court, and now accused of a crime he didn’t commit. He’s not having much luck lately. How do you think his trial will go?
It's the perfect way to get rid of this blyte on the Lannister name. Though Tyrion will fight tooth and nail. I wonder if Sansa will defend him.

154. King Joffrey is dead! **Lisa Kay does happy dance.** Did you think at first he was really dying? Or just chocking? We know Tyrion didn’t do it; so, who did? Cersei must really hate Tyrion to accuse him of regicide and kinslaying. Or do you think she really believes Tyrion did kill her son?
He's the third king Melisandre talked about so I figured he'd die.

155. Sansa finally ran off with “Ser” Dontos, only to be betrayed. Was Littlefinger’s interaction with Sansa a little creepy, or what? All I can say is out of the frying pan and into the fire. True?
I just knew there was something hinky with Dontos but I never suspected Littlefinger. And yes he's always creeped me out and he's old enough to be her father heck in medieval time, her grandfather. yuk!

156. We are given several answers, but more questions too. It was cruel of Littlefinger to set up the jousting dwarfs. Did he plan it all? Even the misdirect of Tyrion as scapegoat for Joffrey’s murder?
The jousting dwarfs were disrespectful to the king's family and Joffrey shouldn't have laughed but he's an ass so I'm not surprised. Littlefinger has always been up to something. The question is, what does he have in store for Sansa?

157. Cersei wouldn’t let Jaime hold his son when he was born? She continues to be the omnipotent b!tch, IMO. What did you think of Jaime’s reaction to hearing of his son’s death?
Joffrey was never realy his son so an over-reaction would have been hypocritical.

158. Again Jaime intervenes for Brienne, saving her from Ser Loras Tyrell’s wrath. How will her trial go? Will there even be one? I mean, she supposedly killed a traitor, right?
I think Jamie will stand for her.

159. Ick. Sex on the altar with your sibling with your dead son nearby? Talk about breaking a few commandments or any sense of propriety. Comments.
Ick is right! Twins have weird bonds but this relationship is just creepy.

160. Do you think Jaime will listen to Tyrion’s side of things? Will Jaime be forced to choose between his two siblings?
No I think Tywin just disowned him. Jamie is pretty sure that Tyrion didn't (wouldn't) kill family so maybe he'll side with Tyrion. It surely would be a first.

161. Whoa! Who knew Davos, now Lord Rainwood, Admiral of the Narrow Sea, had it in him to rescue Edric? Why didn’t Melisandre foresee this turn of events; because it was NOT directed at her? Has Davos’ luck finally run out?
He was grossly against the sacrifice and he hates Melisandre with a passion so not really a surprise. Davos is in deep doo-doo but maybe the letter will save him. I guess that's why he didn't share it previously he knew he was going to need it when he betrayed Stannis.
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I know. He kills everybody left and right. I don't know but I actually like Davos - he looks to do the right thing in spite of everything else and above all, he's loyal without compromising MOST of his ideals. THough at times he irritates me too.

Stannis - Blergh!
How about the Starks? But at the rate GRRM is going, he has to create a new set of characters to replace all the old ones.

Questions for Chapter 64 (Jon) through Chapter 67 (Jaime)
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162. Another battle at the wall! Again, I thought all was lost but the brothers triumph. Does the Wall really protect itself or was it just good strategic planning?
Just strategic planning is my guess. They are in deep doo-doo for sure.

163. Jon now commands the Wall (at least temporarily). I keep forgetting he is so young! He’s what, 16 or 17? Yep, Ygritte is dead and burned. No bastard heir (yet). Do you we know how far away Sam and Bran are from Jon?
No. If you look at the mag, they are at #8 and I think Jon is at #11 so quite a distance. I don't think Sam is bringing Bran to Jon anyway. Isn't he bringing him to the Elk Man?

164. I’m relieved that Arya is safe. How sad she saw her mother dead when she was dreaming! I had forgotten about Lysa…good idea to take her there. The Hound says Arya’s not worth spit to him now, so why does he continue to take care of her?
I don't know why the Hound keeps Arya. If she's no good as a hostage, what's the point of dragging her around?

165. OK, now the Hound wants to take Arya to Riverrun but she wants to go to the Wall. To me, neither sounds like a safe option! Do you think she would be better off with Blackfish or with Jon Snow?
I don't think she'd ever make it to the wall so not really an option. And Riverun is not safe either. She'll be a hostage (or worse) when the Lannister's take it. Lysa is the only safe alternative and she's nuts so I'm clueless as to what they should do.

166. Wow, even Bronn won’t fight for Tyrion now. Does he have a chance at all? Seems nobody minds lying at the trial. If Tyrion does confess, do you believe Tywin would send him to the Wall?
No. Tywin will kill him for Cersei.

167. Hmmm, Oberyn as champion. I like it…a chance to kill his sister’s murderer. Should be a good fight! However, do you think the Mountain would come as commanded? I get the feeling he may go rogue.
I think it would be an interesting fight. And maybe while they wait for him to arrive, Tyrion will find out who really murdered Joffrey.

168. Do you think Jaime can be a successful Commander of the Kingsguard with only one hand? He’s not getting respect from everyone. Will Ser Boros pay for his insolence?
As long as he doesn't actually have to fight, he might be ok. I believe Jamie will do something to Boros.

169. I think Jaime has almost convinced Loras that Brienne didn’t kill Renly. It appears Jaime believes a shadow was the culprit. Does his belief have more to do with his belief in supernatural occurrence or his faith in Brienne? So, if/when Brienne is released, what will she do? Stay in King’s Landing?
Well I don't think she has any place else to go but what are her feelings on the Lannister's in general? I think it's his faith in Brienne's honor or just her stubbornness.

170. Regarding Ser Loras, Knight of the Flowers, in the TV series, it’s made explicitly clear that he and Renly are lovers. So, as I’ve been reading, I’ve been looking for clues to this wondering if GRRM wrote it that way or if the producers were taking artistic license. There are hints such as the “Rainbow Guard” and the fact that Margaery is still a virgin, but I never saw anything definitive until one scene in which Jaime tells Loras, “I’ll take it [the sword] from you and shove it up some place even Renly never found.” (Chapter 62 Jaime) So to me this was saying, yes they had been lovers and people knew about it. Anyway, my main point here is that if they were, why wasn’t it made more explicit? Would a relationship such as this alienate readers? It’s ok to have incestuous twins but not two men in love? Thoughts?
Wasn't sodomy a killing offense in medieval times? Besides what gay king would be loved by the masses in medieval times?
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Questions for Chapter 68 (Sansa) to Chapter 71 (Daenerys)
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171. It began in Sansa’s last chapter (61), that first niggling doubt that she might not have been better off with Tyrion. Hindsight being such a wondrous thing, it rises again. Will Sansa continue to compare her marriage to Tyrion with her currently precarious situation and finally realize some truth about Tyrion as the story goes on? Ugh! Being married to Robert, she just might!
It would show growth of character if she did finally realize the grass isn't greener elsewhere. Married to young Robert? And she though Tyrion was bad. guess the jokes on her!

172. “A harp can be a dangerous as a sword, in the right hands.” Lord Petyr Baelish, Littlefinger, has a way of twisting words to suit his purpose. Right off the bat, we hear more half-truths regarding Tyrion character when Littlefinger tells Sansa her husband turned his first wife over to the guards when he grew tired of her. Later Littlefinger tells her, “Clean hands, Sansa. Whatever you do, make certain your hands are clean.” And more good advice with, “When you know what a man wants you know who he is, and how to move him.” Will Sansa ever figure out what Littlefinger’s “songs” to her are manipulations, find out his wants, maneuver him to do her bidding, all the while keeping her hands clean? Is even that possible by the end of this series?
I honestly don't think Sansa is smart enough to figure that out and even if she does, she won't out maneuver Littlefinger.

173. What did I say about time in my last set of answers regarding the Wall? It has been there for 8,000 years and it looks like Mance Rayder means to fight that long. I was wondering how long Jon Snow could keep battling when Ser Allister Thorne and Lord Janos Slynt show up! How will Lord Janos deal with Jon Snow’s “treason”?
Janos had a mad on for Eddard Stark and it seems like he wants the wall for himself so Jon has to go or suffer the consequences.

174. Were you as sad as I was that even Podrick Payne, Tyrion’s squire, believes Tyrion guilty?
Few in this series has any loyalty so no, not surprised exactly. Podrick was too timid and terrified of Tyrion so he'd be quick to find him guilty.

175. And Shae! How could she lie in court about Tyrion? What was her motive? Gold, prestige, hatred, or coercion?
Cersei got to her but she won't live to get her reward. Cersei has a knack for killing her patsies.

176. Did you think Tyrion was going to confess to King Joffrey’s murder and hope he’d be sent to the Wall? Were you surprised by the confession he gave?
I couldn't see Tyrion at the wall and I couldn't see him confessing to something he didn't do either. He confessed with his usual sarcasm which I've missed.

177. Before it began, who did you believe was going to win Tyrion’s trial by battle? There at the end, did you think Prince Oberyn was going to have a victory over Ser Gregor? What does a draw mean for Tyrion?
I thought Oberyn might have the advantage due to his anger over his sister's murder. And he had a pretty good idea of Clegane's fighting style so he had a chance anyway. A draw? GRRM likes to kill off main characters but he's axed so many in this book already that I think Tyrion should be safe but I confess to not having a clue as to what Tywin will do.

178. Joso’s Cock? Well now we know how Dany conquered Meereen. As well as the “three treasons”. Do you feel she should have forgiven Ser Jorah? Will not doing so come back to haunt her? Or only her dreams?
I think she let her emotions rule not her brains. Jorah came to love her and stopped his betrayals. I think her treatment of him was a mistake. What do they say about keeping your enemies closer?

179. Were you surprised that Dany decided to stay?
Not really. Her people need to rest before traveling again. And she needs to understand how to rule not just conquer. It's a good decision.
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Questions for Chapter 72 (Jamie) - Chapter 75 (Samwell)
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180) What did you think about the fake Arya? For a second I thought maybe we'd missed something and Arya had been captured.
It's a very clever scheme. I surely hope this comes back and bites them in the butt.

181) Do you think Jaime is done with Cersei? Do you think he's seeing her in a different light? Perhaps experiencing feelings of regret?
I hope so. Did you see her reaction when Jamie reached for her with his stump (when they were screwing where Joffrey's dead body lies). She flinched from him and wouldn't let him touch her. Bad bad. And she had the nerve to call him a cripple. I can't see him forgiving that, not even from his twin. Heck especially from his twin.

182) Why does Jaime sound so...depressed, like he's going to die.. perhaps a tad bit suicidal when he talks to Brienne? Anyone else get that vibe?
It sounds like he's totally disgusted with his family and his situation. I wonder what he's going to do now.

183) Do you think Slynt sent Jon on what he figured would be a suicidal mission?
Absolutely!

184) I was wrong about the horn of winter. Still not sure what it does. Did they say something about it calling giants or something?
It teams down the wall.

185) Surprised Stannis sent men?
Where exactly did he get these men? Last I remember he only had 200 or so. I was more surprised that he went himself. This must be what Davos's doing.

186) Surprised Arya left the Hound? Did you think she might forgive him?
I think she was starting to until he started detailing his kills. That was the last straw...finally.

187) What do you think of the Hound? Do you think he's haunted by what he's done? Do you think he had a choice?
He did as ordered but he enjoyed it. I do think he regrets it know but too little too late.

188)Anyone else get a bit confused by how much information seems to be skipped then later explained? I keep wondering if I missed something. These last chapters seem to be choppy and hard to follow almost like Martin didn't know how to fit it all in and hurriedly tried to bring it all to an end.
I agree. It's tough to follow when characters talk of things that never happened as far as the reader knows. Makes it very confusing. I kept flipping back pages to see what I missed.

189)Sam's back, but what happened to Bran? I'm confused. He's in hiding, but where? What happened?
Sam brought him to the Elk Man and he's on the way to the three-eyed crow, whoever that is.

190) Who do you think will rule that wall? Will Samwell throw in his cap? What will happen to Jon? Was everything decided?
I think it will be decided when a new commander is chosen. I think Janos is threatening (or bribing) the Black brothers to vote for him. It's not going to be good for Jon if Janos wins.
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Questions for Chapter 76 (Jon) - Chapter 79 (Jon)
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191) Should Jon have said no to being Lord of Winterfell? Oh, and for the record I still think we're going to find out something about Jon's mother that we still haven;t heard. I'm just not sure what. I think there's still a mystery there.
I agree. Jon's mother is very important otherwise it wouldn't be such a secret. Jon very much wants to go home to Winterfell but he's committed to the Black so I'm sure it's going to be a really tough decision. I think he'll wait until a commander is chosen and if it's Janos, then he'll take Stannis' deal.

192) When Ghost came back it was the deciding factor for Jon what his choice would be. Do you think everything will come down to a war between Gods? Do we know who Dany believes in?
I do think it's going to be a war of the Gods. No idea who Dany's God is but I'd have to guess and say the seven gods.

193) We now know Tansy is Tysha. Virtual high five to Lisa Kay for being my partner in thinking that might me the case. So now it would appear she had a child that wasn't Tyrion's. Remember what Catelyn's father said about the next one being trueborn.
Good God could Jon Snow be a Lannister? Holy crap the ruckus that would cause and what will Tyrion do now that Tysha is alive? Run and hide as planned or find her?

194) Would you have believed Tyrion would kill his father? Will he find Tysha? Are they still married? Did Tysha actually give birth to Tyrion's child? So many questions. So many unanswered questions.
I figured if he killed any Lannister, it would be Cersei but of course Tywin pulls all the strings so I guess it makes more sense to kill him. I think his downfall was his pretend ignorance of Tysha and her fate.

195) I know Tyrion lied about killing Joffrey because he was mad at his brother. Do you think this will come back to bite him in the butt later?
Of course, but maybe the new Jamie will recognize the lie for what it was. Jamie hurt Tyrion and Tyrion responded in kind.

196) Without Tywin around what do you think will happen?
I think the Lannister's will fall apart with no one to rule them. Cersei's too stupid and brash. Jamie's too defeated by circumstances and Tyrion can't really hang around right now so maybe Ser Kevan will take command. Or all four could fight amongst themselves and save Stannis the trouble.

197) Loving Samwell more and more all the time. Clever lad. Were you surprised he lied and got Jon elected as master of the wall?
Yes I was surprised he lied but he's so terrified of everyone else that it makes sense to support a commander who is a friend. How ill this affect Stannis' plans for Jon?

198) Do you like the fact that Jon is now the in charge of the Wall?
I like it. It allows him to keep his vow and not be subject to Janos' enmity and cruelty. I'm so glad ghost came back, with all the wolves being killed it's nice to see one or two still alive. Now we just need Arya's Nimerah (sp?) to return.
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Questions for Chapter 80 (Sansa) - Epilogue
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199) Sansa has really gotten herself into a pickle with Littlefinger. No one knows who she is and he's got his sights set on her. Just like Arya she can't get a break.
We've got everything else in this book, may as well add a pedophile too. Ugh what can Sansa do now? run? but where exactly could she be safe?

200) Cuckoo Bird (Lysa) is gone and oh how many songs she sang before she left. Anyone as surprised as me about some of those confessions? Did you think Lysa would have killed her husband and lied to her sister? Does any of this confuse you as to the reason why Littlefinger did it?
I was shocked that Lysa killed Jon Arryn but then again I didn't realize he was so much older than her either. Silly me I assumed it was a love match. I'm surprised Petyr killed her but that might have been Tywin's plan when he sent Littlefinger to the Vale. What of young Robert? will he be killed also? He is the heir.

201) What was with the shaking with young Robert?
He has some kind of disease - epilepsy? He's always been weak and infantile-like. I believe Sansa thought "8 going on 3" which about sums young Robert up.

202) She's back!!!! Oh dear lord is she ever! Catelyn survived????? Truly???? How the heck did that happen and how did she recruit anyone without being able to talk?
She'a a wight just like Beric Dondarrion. Not alive at all. I wonder if GRRM is going to bring Robb back too.

203) Who's continuing and, those of you who are continuing, when should we read the next book? Should we take a break in between this one and the next?
I haven't decided.
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I just finished it and am greatly disappointed. All the good characters are dead except Jon, Arya, Bran and Daenerys. Who is left but the characters you want to kill yourself? Ugh.

You are correct, GRRM is going to have to bring on all new people...maybe the wildlings? haha

I'm still trying to figure out where Stannis got so many men from. Last we heard he only had about 200 and low and behold he arrives at the wall with thousands. From where? and how? I hate when authors introduce information out of left field with no explanation at all. Stannis went from a down in the dumps king to the king of the hill. WTH happened?

Davos is just some smuggler who Stannis plucked from the waters for his own gains and made him a lord on top of that. Sure he's loyal (after a fashion) but he's a nobody.

I hated the epilogue. WTH was up with giving us 20 pages of Merrett Frey. Who the heck is he anyway? Just to tell us that Catelyn is back but she's not back in a good way just as a wight with revenge on her mind. So I guess more killing is in store for the Frey's and Bolton. Oh man I can't decide whether to continue the series or just end it here.

Well I do have to read the next one in May. I need a break though so I think I'll start around the 15th or so. You wanna join me again?

YES! Finally someone sharing the same WTH?! reaction with me. It's been so hard for me to remain spoiler-free when all I wanted to shout was BEWARE! Killer on the loose!!

I hated Stannis - and it was totally out of the blue how he came up with so many (or little?!) men to win over the wildlings. Again never really said was why were the wildlings migrating?

And guess what - in the next book Daenerys, Tyrion and Jon Snow don't have their PoV. What the HECK?!!! How did Catelyn come back from the dead? Why did she come? Why did GRRM make her come?

I am more on the fence on not to continue but I think I have to see how it goes. I don't think I'll like it either. Of course, I'll join you - I've so enjoyed reading with you.

I still think it's a 5 star book because anything that keeps you reading for 1000+ pages deserves 5 stars. I don't like the characters and I don't like what GRRM did to them but the writing is phenomenal.

Are you kidding that Jon, Tyrion and Daenerys DON'T have a POV in the entire book? Who the hell is in this book? I mean seriously everyone else is dead and zombie Catelyn? I couldn't give a rat's patootti what's up with her.

If I didn't need a book over 1000 pages for a challenge, I would definitely put this off but I also know that if I put it off, I won't get back to it for years. So May it is. Do you want to start after No ! Detective? Let me know.

Nope, not kidding. I saw it in a couple of reviews (that's what I was doing once I finished the book - trolling the review page for the least spoilery review). So apparently, we'll be getting Brienne, Catelyn, Cersei, Arya and/or Sansa. Not sure about Jaime (don't think so). I have the book so I can check but not inclined to. Hope this is not spoilery for you.

I have loads of books >1000. I'm reading the Malazan Book of the Fallen series which is 10 books of >1000 pages doorstoppers. A book a month in a group created for reading this series. And I'm also planning to continue the Outlander series. Sometimes, my head spins thinking of the commitment. So anyway, the point I wished to make before I started rambling is I want to continue since I have you to read along with. Otherwise, I'm pretty sure I will not continue. Since I was of the mind not to initially but I just want to know why.

Yeah, let's start after the No,1 - I need that for SRC and I'm not sure if I can fit this one in.

Since I was of the mind not to initially but I just want to know why. EXACTLY! I'm wondering what's the point of continuing the series if all the main characters are dead? Inquiring minds want to know. hahaha

I read all the Outlander books and absolutely loved them. Jamie and Claire are probably my most favorite literary characters ever.