Wow.

I bawled my eyes out when Nathaniel and Bears showed up. I swear I actually felt like I was running up to hug them and finally releasing all the anger and frustration I felt from all the things done to Hannah and her family.

I think what I loved the most is that I didn't know if there would be a happy ending until the very last pages. Some of the resolutions were nothing I could have ever dreamed of, and the characters are so real, I felt a huge sense of relief that Curiosity was still around and kicking.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. This book was better than I dreamed it could be. (Which really is saying alot, I knew it would be great!)

Soup,
That was one of my favorite parts. I felt like I was right there with Hannah. It was a totally amazing book!�

What do you think of Hannah and Ben?

Kathy,
I was so happy to see Hannah and Ben get together! That's another one of my favorite parts is the Hannah and Ben chemistry. Darn, the was a really good book!!�

exactly my thoughts!!� sigh!�

Jennet gave Honore Nathan so that he would be safe from the false priest (sorry, the book is upstairs and I forgot how to spell his name) Nathan then was delivered to Agnes for safekeeping until Jennet could come and get him.

Agnes was told the child was Honore's, so at that time and place, even illegitimate, an heir coming from the right race could be accepted into the family.

Honore probably wanted to please his grandmere and sleep with Jennet, so he could kill two birds with one stone by bringing Nathan to Agnes.

First and foremost I thought QoS was an excellent book.  There were sections I liked more than others but overall I was pleased with the way the story developed and was resolved.

My initial reaction to Hannah's casual/sexual relationship with Kit Wyndham was one of surprise.  When my daughter (16) read that part she was actually shocked and said she nolonger had respect for Hannah - I won't repeat the word she called her but I think you can guess what it was.  Possibly a reaction relevant to her age.

The way the character of Ben was developed was very good and I must admit I fell in love with him almost immediately.  I also appreciate the fact that Hannah explained what had happened to Strikes-the-Sky.  That side of her life was resolved for me because up until then I still wondered if he was actually still alive - it had been a mistake.

As far as the evil characters go Agnes & Honore Poiterin were very good.  I could almost hear Agnes talking while I read her dialogue (I pictured her in my mind she was so well described I thought).  I'll be honest I was surprised she didn't put up more of a fight when she was tied and her home set on fire.  I thought she had more  spunk in her! Honore's character didn't surprise me and his death was perfect in my eyes.  It was a nice touch Ben being responsible for his death.  I did at one stage think Nathanial would have done the deed.  Both men loving Hannah so much revenge was foremost in their minds.

I did find my attention started to wander during the extended passages in italics. Although I understood they were necessary in the development of the story I was anxious to return to Hannah and the other main characters.

I loved the ending of the story.  The use of letters written by Jennet and Elizabeth was the perfect way to end the story and tie up loose ends.  I also thought Curiosity comparing Ben to her husband Galileo was great.  Curiosity is such a respected character in the series this was a very nice touch in my opinion.

The entry into the story of Nathanial and Bears pleased me very much.  Upto that point I was missing the involvement of the family at Lakes in the Clouds.  The character of Nathanial from ITW was captured perfectly in his confidence and manner especially when he helped Ben escape from the field hospital - I like the way that was written.

Sorry for going on for so long - I thought it was a fabulous book and I look forward to the final book.
Dianne

You are all very good to give me feedback. It's really helpful to hear what worked and what didn't work quite so well.

DES -- I'm guessing there will be other people who have your daughter's reaction to Hannah's decisions. There are good reasons for it, but still some will be unhappy.