Alyana ’s Comments (group member since Feb 14, 2021)

Alyana ’s comments from the Nothing But Reading Challenges group.

Which group is it?

Marie-Anne wrote: "Third place, very nice!
This was a really fun challenge, and I enjoyed meeting all of you and have put quite a few of the books read on my -- already really long - TBR list.
On to the next challeng..."

This sounds nice! I'm taking a break from competitive challenges for the rest of the year, (if I can last!)

Absolutely loved being part of this team! 🥉 Third place is no small feat! Looking forward to crossing paths again in future challenges. Until then, happy reading! 🥰

Melissa wrote: "Tower Teams has ended!!

This has been an awesome team - I've really enjoyed being on it. I felt like people were reading so much and so many really interesting books. I enjoyed reading our chatter..."

I feel the same way! This team was such a fun group to be part of, and I loved seeing all the great reads everyone shared. Thanks to the captains for organizing everything—I’m excited to see the final results!

Melissa wrote: "@ Deanna please put The Vampire and the Case of the Cursed Canine on your shelf.

@Alyana, please put Flight on your shelf.

Thanks!"

Done :)

MelanieJoy wrote: "you guys are just cruising along! meanwhile it's taking me forever to get through the Sword of Kaigen. But I'm finally 72% through so I'm hoping to be done today or the next couple days.

I'm due ..."

Congratulations Melanie! :)

Alaina wrote: "Finished a book that works for ube. Picked up an audiobook for an author born in nigeria. Should have that done tomorrow."

Hi Alaina, saw your review for Arsenic and Adobo, I'm glad you loved it. Can't wait for the 6th book to come out. :)

It's a type of dessert, you can eat it by itself or a flavor for a cake and ice cream. It's also an ingredient to what we call Halo-Halo (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJ4E-p...)..

If we are looking for ube in text. I have this favorite cozy mystery series. All the books have ube in text (and now I'm craving for one! lol)

https://www.goodreads.com/series/3003...

I got one with a char that rides horses, I should be done with it tomorrow.

I just started a hockey book that can cover the ice hockey task.

Day 3
Chapters 14-20

11. Whether the stories are true or not, are you interested in the back stories of Margaret’s family? What did you think of Freddy’s first interaction with Bernie? (The one that contained the only laugh out loud line so far “Because of your wardrobe?”)

Margaret's family backstories are layered with emotion, mystery, and dysfunction, making it difficult to discern what's true and what's not. These puzzle pieces help shape our understanding of Margaret's worldview and her hesitation to trust others. Meanwhile, Freddy's witty remark "Because of your wardrobe?" in her first interaction with Bernie is a standout moment, showcasing her unfiltered honesty and perceptive nature, and hinting at her role as a challenge to the family's pretenses.

12. Who exactly is Jodi? Will she be a part of the BIG REVEAL?

Jodi is revealed to be Margaret's niece, the daughter of Margaret's sister Laura and Dr. Cecil Willoughby. She plays a significant role in the narrative's emotional climax, serving as a living connection to Margaret's family history and legacy. Jodi's presence is crucial to the big reveal, bringing together past secrets and present reconciliation.

13. I do not have kids, but Hayden’s list of “what ifs” to worry about was a lot. Do you parents worry about that stuff?

Hayden's "what if" list is a relatable and intense portrayal of parental anxiety. While it may feel overwhelming, it reflects a common fear among parents: the pressure to keep their child safe in a world they can't control. This anxiety can be a constant, background concern for many parents. (including me!)

14. Why do you think Alice thinks that Margaret’s tales of her childhood are true, as opposed to the stuff about her family before she was around? Do you find her insightful or naive?

Alice's perspective on Margaret's stories is influenced by her own experiences and biases. As someone who knows Margaret well, Alice finds stories about her childhood more relatable and authentic, while tales about Margaret's family before she was around may be more fictionalized. Alice's insight into Margaret's stories suggests she's perceptive, but also potentially naive in her willingness to accept them at face value.

15. Think the visit to Alice’s family will go well? Think we will meet Hayden's family also?

The visit to Alice's family is a significant event. However, without giving away too many spoilers, I can say that the visit does not go as smoothly as Alice might have hoped.

As for meeting Hayden's family, I can confirm that it is a part of the story. The introduction to Hayden's family is a pivotal moment in the book, and it adds depth to the plot.

Day 2
The Story to Chapter 13

5. Margaret is lying – and probably not just about one singular thing. Do you think she’s even telling Alice and Hayden the same story? Personally I’m also really curious where Margaret’s sister Laura is – to me it feels like she might be key to the whole story… anything specific that made you perk up?

Margaret gives off unreliable narrator vibes, and her polished demeanor may be calculated to manipulate those around her. She likely presents different versions of the story to Alice and Hayden, adapting her emotions to suit each audience. The absence of Laura feels intentional, and her silence may hold a crucial key to unraveling the mystery. A subtle moment of unease occurs when Margaret misremembers something personal to Alice, leaving a breadcrumb trail of potential deception.

6. Similarly, it was kind of an aside but I thought it was interesting when Margaret mentioned the Ives family’s rivalry with the Pulitzers. Is it just a random coincidence that Hayden is a Pulitzer-prize winning author who now also gets to talk to her? Especially since she requested him? And he has a bunch of family issues too?

That's an interesting observation. The connection between Hayden Anderson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, and Margaret's request to meet him could be seen as more than a coincidence. It might be intentional by the author to highlight the themes of family, rivalry, and the complexities of relationships. Hayden's personal struggles could also be a way to explore the human side of a successful author, adding depth to the story.

7. I was a little shocked when they were already kissing 25% in – and then not surprised when Hayden rejects Alice. Do you think he’s telling the truth when he says “I’m not going to hook up with someone whose dream job I’m about to take from them”? Or is there something else going on?

Hayden's statement seems like a valid reason for rejecting Alice, but it's also possible that there's more to his decision. His rejection could be a way to protect himself from the guilt and potential complications that come with a relationship when one partner is in a position of power over the other.

8. We get quite a bit of detail on Alice’s job and research process as a journalist: what she’s searching for, working with fact-checkers, etc. Do you enjoy these types of details, i.e. minutae of characters’ jobs and hobbies?

Getting into the nitty-gritty of a character’s job or hobby, like Alice’s investigative process as a journalist in the book, can really ground a story. It makes characters feel more real and layered. Seeing Alice dig into her research, consult with fact-checkers, and chase leads shows her dedication and intellect. It also builds tension and helps drive the plot, especially in a story that mixes emotional depth with professional purpose.
If you enjoy stories where characters’ careers and passions are fleshed out, it often means you appreciate realism, character-driven narratives, and a strong sense of purpose in fiction. It can also give insight into careers or worlds you might not experience firsthand.

9. I’ve been to Hearst Castle, but long before I actually knew anything about him. The Ives family seems to be quite obviously inspired by him (and I guess he was name-dropped for plausible deniability). Is there a specific family dynasty you’re really interested in?

That’s a great observation! The Ives family is clearly a nod to William Randolph Hearst and his grand estate—especially with the media empire, wealth, and generational legacy elements. The mention of Hearst seems like a clever wink to readers who catch the connection, as you did!
As for family dynasties I find particularly interesting is the British Royal Family. Politics, tragedy, glamour, and mystery. There’s always been a compelling mix of idealism and scandal surrounding them.

10. Bonus question: So… anyone else feel like they’re reading Evelyn Hugo 2.0?

Yes I did feel the similarities! Both books explore the complexities of womanhood in the spotlight, where fame and public perception can shape or obscure one's true identity. The protagonists in both novels are constantly reinventing themselves, hiding secrets to protect their careers, hearts, or sanity. The stories feature a biographer/narrator role, emotional intensity, and sharp, witty dialogue, drawing readers into the characters' lives.

DQs Day 1
Chapters 1 to 7

1.) Emily Henry is a popular contemporary romance author and a fair few of her books have been previous NBRC BOM selections. Any expectations for this book going in?

I love Emily Henry and I've been holding off this book so I expect this to be amazing as her other books!

2.) What are your first impressions of Alice? And sending that drink to Hayden?

Alice Scott appears to be an optimistic and people-oriented individual, eager to make connections and prove herself, particularly to her family. She's navigating a complex relationship with her mother after her father's passing and is described as a "sunshine" type.

Sending that drink to Hayden suggests that despite being competitors, she initiates contact in a friendly, perhaps even charming, way. This aligns with her "genuinely likes people" trait.

3.) Would you agree to the month long trial or tell Margaret she's a nutter and move on to something else? Why do you think Margaret is doing things this way?

Margaret suggests a month-long trial to assess the relationship between Emily and her partner. This approach indicates her pragmatic and level-headed nature, valuing realistic expectations and open communication. Ultimately, Emily's decision depends on her personal feelings, with a trial providing security and clarity, or an open conversation about her concerns.

4.) After learning a few tidbits about Hayden's family and how he grew up, did you opinion change a bit on his character?

Yes, absolutely—learning more about Hayden’s family and upbringing definitely adds depth to his character and can shift how you perceive him.

At first, Hayden might come off as guarded or emotionally distant, maybe even a bit frustrating in how he handles things. But once you learn about his family dynamics and the emotional neglect or pressures he faced growing up, it starts to make sense why he acts the way he does. He isn’t cold or uncaring—he’s just someone who learned to protect himself early on, and that armor is hard to take off.

Understanding where he came from helps reframe his actions not as aloofness but as a kind of self-preservation. It makes his vulnerability and growth throughout the story more meaningful, and it’s easier to root for him as he opens up and lets people in—especially the main character.

ooohh now I know, thanks Deanna 😊

I don't know if I missed this rule somewhere. Can we use a book for the cheese spell out and one mini at the same time or not?

I got Professor Umbridge on my Wizarding book I finished yesterday.

oops, I thought I did.. It should be there now 😉

I prefer audiobooks, though sometimes I accompany it with ebooks.

I have a book for E..