Reading the Chunksters discussion

This week's part was, at least for me, more interesting than the previous ones, because for the first time we got a glimpse into Q's thoughts, in the part titled Q's diary . At this point, Q is a much more interesting character to me than Gert (who in Venice uses the name of Ludwig Schaliedecker, having borrowed it from his deceased friend Eloi). At least Q has a goal, he knows what he wants to accomplish. And he is a mysterious villain. I was also interested in reading more details about his patron, Carafa. These were the highlights of this section to me. And, as usual in this book, the beginnings of each individual part seem more interesting than the endings.

I liked the new business Gert is involved in: printing and distributing the books. Books only change the world if the world is capable of digesting them . The description of Venice was also enlightening, even though I thought it funny that such an accomplished traveller as Gert was so impressed by the city and got lost in it (I kept in mind that the authors are Italian).

I'm more enthusiastic about the next part now. Q and Gert are bound to meet and this time I hope to learn about it from two perspectives, and not just one. To cite Qoelet 3,2 after Q, a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted , and I suppose we're in for a grand finale of this book.

Do you feel that so far the title 'Q' is justified? Is Q really so central to the story?

It was interesting getting a glimpse into Q. And, relating this to another question, Q has not been very central to the story thus far, so it is a welcome change. I am unsure on the title - I will want to see how it ends before making that call - but even though he's been a major background player in the plot, hes been rather minor in the story. Carafa, though, I don't seem to care much about. I am more concerned about Q and Gert's relationship than his.

But yes, once again, the beginnings of sections are always so promising. It almost feels like the author's got tired of their own stories, so just wrapped them up as quickly as possible after starting out so well.

As per sections, though, this one is my favorite. I like the book business much more than wars and battles. We also seem to be getting more details on this section than on the money-stealing operation which pretty much happened only in the background.

I also loved the descriptions of Venice! I have actually just returned from there, so that was a fun little refresher for me! :-)

We have two sections left, and I am really left wondering how on earth this is going to end. Or even really where exactly its going. Is it going to be just a showdown between Q and Gert? Will there be some wrap-up to the political strife? (I really dont know my history here...) Is there going to be some kind of moral we are supposed to take home, or is it just going to be a "thriller" set in a historical fiction? Its hard to tell so far with how this book is laid out....no major plot threads hold through except that Gert likes to be fanatical and Q likes to hunt him. I guess we'll see! No matter what, it will be a surprise to me!