Catherine111 wrote:
I hope I am doing this right . . .
1) I am really enjoying the book, not just the plot and the characters, but also the brief lessons we are given throughout Gwen’s tour. I am learning about so many things. I also love the music and art references and how they influence Gwen (and me, actually). I was struck in the very beginning with Gwen’s deep sadness. I saw her birthday lunch as heartbreaking. She has a kind of deep-rooted sadness that surfaces now and then. But I think she has worked very hard to keep her sadness hidden from everyone around her. I also think she has a poor opinion of herself and thinks she is not worthy of better things (Richard a prime example).
2) I like the members of the S & M club. They are a wonderful diversion for the reader and for Gwen. They are a great comic relief that we need.
3) I like Aunt Bea, although I can see why she may grate on one’s nerves after awhile. We all know someone like this, someone who wants a child (or niece in this case) to spread their wings and go beyond their comfort zone.
4) I’m not surprised. I don’t know why I’m not. But I’m not surprised.
5) One part of Gwen’s characterization that I find particularly realistic is her age phobia. Something I share with Gwen is the loss of a mother at a very early age. I understand the stress associated with the “closing in” of that unique birthday. There is a sense of relief and liberation once you pass the age of your mother’s death. Gwen’s experience is all that more traumatic, since she lost several family members early in life.
6) I think Gwen’s carefree outlook on the stairs is a glimpse into who she really is inside. She is then robbed of her feelings by onlookers who begin to judge her actions. She then bottles her emotions again because she is too influenced by outside forces. I don’t think she wants people to see the real Gwen for fear of rejection (as is then illustrated by the reaction of the group, or certain members of the group).
7) I love the Edwards brothers. They bring a fresh, new perspective to Gwen.
8) The outlook doesn’t fit. I think he made this statement as a defense mechanism for one of two (maybe both) reasons. First because as others have said, there may be a painful breakup in his past. But I also think it may be possible he tells Gwen this as a defense against the news that she has just revealed to him --- that she has a boyfriend. We know he has been interested in Gwen from the first moment he saw her (with his wink). He spends the day with her and then finds out that she is attached. His statement may be a way to protect himself against her news.
Debbie wrote:
Catherine you're doing great for a novice, see pretty soon you'll be addicted to us, have to visit everyday and read every book and know all of us personally. Okay just in case that bit of psycho bable didn't work I have a subliminal tape for you to listen to while you sleep 
___
Catherine,
As Debbie said, you're doing a great job! (And LOL about her subliminal tape!! You gotta watch out for our fearless moderator. She may well send one to you. 
) I'm so, so glad you decided to join the discussion.
I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your mom when you were young. I know I've been fortunate in that area, but I have friends who experienced early parental losses, and they've said it's an ache they always have inside. For me, I know I would definitely fixate on the age thing, so I appreciate that you found this to be a realistic trait for Gwen, and I love all of the insights you shared on her character.
When you said in the first paragraph about how -- like Gwen -- you're influenced by music and art, which songs or artistic pieces were ones that stood out for you? Are you a fan of musicals, too? I was talking with some friends on Twitter today about "The Music Man"...and now I just can't get that soundtrack out of my head! ("Pick a little, talk a little, cheep, cheep, cheep, talk a lot, pick a little more...")
~Marilyn
aprilh wrote:
I had a little jet lag yesterday from our flight to Europe, but I got some sleep, so I'm refreshed and ready to begin our tour! Many thanks to Muse and Whiteginger! I've eaten a piece of your delicious chocolate cake (and the instant calorie disposal) and savored a glass of wine. I'm feeling relaxed and ready to take on Europe!
I immediately fell in love with this book! I burst out laughing when I first read of the S&M Club and what it really stood for! This book has everything I could ever want: quirky, funny characters and an amazing trip to take with good friends!
The S&M Club members are a riot! I loved the t-shirt sayings that Dr. Louie and Matilda had made up. I was trying to decide which member was my favorite, but I just couldn't make up my mind. I love them all and wish it was me on a month long trip to Europe with them! They all have a wonderful sense of humor and are ready to take a bite out of life. When they started the sing-along on the plane, I couldn't stop laughing! It seemed like so much fun to me! Poor Gwen was so embarrassed, but they were all just having a good time. The S&M Club members may be older than Gwen, but their spirits are those of teenagers! Gwen could learn a lot from them and I hope a little bit of them rub of on her by the end of the book.
Aunt Bea is so much fun. Gwen is the opposite to her Aunt Bea. Bea is carefree, laid back, ready for whatever adventure life throws at her. Gwen on the other hand is very structured, a bit self-conscious, she doesn't seem to be completely comfortable with herself. I think Bea is a good influence on Gwen. She could learn a lot from her.
I wasn't really surprised that Aunt Bea and the S&M Club members wanted Gwen to have a summer fling. Even knowing they were all over 60, they certainly didn't act it. They all acted like a bunch of teenagers ready for a good time, while Gwen was acting much older than her age. Aunt Bea didn't seem to be a big fan of Richard, so maybe this was her chance to get Gwen to rethink their relationship and possibly find someone more suited for her.
Gwen's phobia of multitudes of ten fits perfectly with her very controlled lifestyle. When they first arrive in Europe, the first thing Gwen wants to do is make a list of all the places she wants to visit, so she can have the satisfaction of physically checking them off the list. She even brings a pen with her on the tour, just for this purpose! She sees a particular site and then as soon as possible, crosses it off the list. Aunt Bea sees this and tells Gwen she's missing everything good. Gwen doesn't understand because she's seen everything that everyone else has. I think at this point she just hasn't let go and allowed herself to become emotionally invested in any of the sites.
When Gwen sees the little girl racing down the steps at the Isle of Capri, she is drawn to her. She sees the girl as "An embodiment of youth. And joy. And life." She wanted to be a part of that too and the feeling reminded her of being a kid. I think this is the first time in a long time that she felt truly free and able to let go of all her insecurities. To just live in the moment. She put aside her list of things she should see and became spontaneous. When the other members of the tour group see her however, she immediately feels self-conscious and flees from their sight as quickly as possible. Gwen is not yet confident in who she is. She is afraid of what people are thinking about her and I hope she learns from the members of the S&M Club how to let go and live.
I was as surprised as Gwen to learn that Emerson didn't believe in the "One". The timing of this conversation was interesting to me because Gwen confesses to Emerson that she has a boyfriend back home. Emerson doesn't seem to be fazed, but he seems to be interested in Gwen and I wondered if this confession didn't bother him a little bit. As other posters have said, my best guess would be that he was hurt in a past relationship. We know his brother, Thoreau, was married before, had gotten a messy divorce and that he still believes in marriage, but Emerson's reasoning is still a mystery to me.
April,
You wrote: "I immediately fell in love with this book! I burst out laughing when I first read of the S&M Club and what it really stood for! This book has everything I could ever want: quirky, funny characters and an amazing trip to take with good friends!"
THANK YOU!!! I'm thrilled you're enjoying it so much! I can't tell you what a huge gift it is to get to talk about A Summer in Europe with you and this wonderful book club. I spent over a year writing this novel, and there were days when I remember wondering (in a pit of authorial despair, LOL) if it was ever going to make sense to anyone but me, and if I was the only one who'd find these characters amusing... So, I say again, thank you!
The scene where they're singing on the plane is actually one of my favorites in the book. From Gwen's point of view, it's a positively absurd situation and something she couldn't imagine doing herself in a trillion years. (It was so fun to visualize her watching this play out in front of her and to write her reaction!)
When I was 16, I was an AFS exchange student for a summer and took a really long flight to Australia, my host country, along with about 70 other students who were also headed there. One of the guys was REALLY extraverted. I remember him standing up at one point and addressing all of us -- rallying everybody together to give our thanks to the flight attendants. He written out "awards" to give them for being so nice to all of the teenagers on the plane . He encouraged all of the other regular passengers to join in on the cheering, too. Pretty soon the ice was broken and there was a lot of really goofy interaction (in a sweet and humorous way) between the AFS teens, the in-flight staff and the other passengers. Someone, who knew I'd taken a few years of French, asked me to join her in chatting with a couple of older French tourists several rows ahead of us, and I ended up having a long conversation with them that was really enjoyable. I couldn't help but feel what a wonderful thing it was that we could all bond together like that -- so many ages and nationalities -- and have that much fun on a 15-hour flight. It was a very memorable experience! And I could easily imagine someone breaking into song on that particular flight...
And, Deb, I'd totally join you in a verse or two of "OKLAHOMA"!
~Marilyn
dhaupt wrote:
BTW, you've reminded me to ask everyone: What flavors of gelato do you all want to have for a refreshing, post-sightseeing, afternoon treat?! I'm taking orders...
~Marilyn
well you cant go wrong with chocolate so
Mayan Chocolate & Chocolate Raspberry
Ohhhh, Deb, YES!! That's a combination I'd LOVE to have, too!
Comin' right up...
Mountain_Muse wrote:
On my Nook so typingis a chore...but having read Ginger's Aunt Bea comments and the bickering between the two brothers Ihope to mercy someone doesn't tag those two boys as Gomer and Guber, even if they do bicker like those two did... Nuff of typing on this thing Marilyn I'll get on my computerwhen we finally get home tonight and put my twocents in...You guys save mea little wine ;-) Muse
LOL about Gomer and Guber!! No... I suspect Emerson and Thoreau would not be amused by that comparison .
The wine is chilling for you, Muse. It goes delightfully well with your delicious Chocolate Cake!
~Marilyn
B, like another traveller or two jet lag and layovers has me trying to catch up with the rest of the tour. I hope I haven't missed too much. Breaks in hydrolic lines on 747s can sure put the brakes on take off...so, not to speak of the ground crew forgetting to put the go juice in the tank (no joke). Any way we have arrived, a day late, but not a dollar short.
1. First thoughts
Like the rest of the crew, I am finding this book to be a real hoot, and a real refreshing read. If things keep going like the start (especially the sing along at the end of the flight) I'll be running for the necessary room knock-kneed.
2. Tell us what you think of the S&M club and it’s members
Love them, love them, love them!!!!! There is no humor (dry) greater than that of super geeks, cops, or cone-heads. Being married to a cop and having several friends who worked at Los Alamos or Sandia Labs....Marilyn you nailed the characters. All the double innuendo and tossing numbers around like candy had me cracking up.... oh yes, I kept reminding myself, these are true geeks. Then you threw in the free-living kink, oh well, what can I say...magic.
3. First impression of Aunt Bea
Ginger, I knew the name "Aunt Bea" was haunting me. Lol But this is definitely NOT Andy's Aunt Bea.
4. Knowing the age of the S&M club and Aunt Bea are you surprised by the suggestions of a “summer fling” to Gwen
See above
6. Gwen first starts to enjoy her trip with her flight down the steps in the Isle of Capri
and until she’s observed by her group she seems to have taken a more carefree outlook
why is this where her interest starts and why does her being noticed negatively affect her actions
Seeing that little kid on the steps sparked something loose in Gwen and turned her "little girl" free. She suddenly found joy in the moment in the simplicity of dancing down the steps of Capri. How long had it been since she had been able to enjoy that simple joy in life -- running down the steps? Not since she was a kid and her mom died and she had to suddenly grow up and become the adult and take care of her younger sibling(s). She was able to forget herself in the beauty of the day and just enjoy -- until she looked up and suddenly realized that she was under scrutiny, then she remembered she needed to be an adult (who she was supposed to be) again. What a let down. I sensed her disapointment.
7. We meet the Edward’s brothers, what are your thoughts on them and how Gwen feels they “awakened” Europe for her
Don't ask why, but for some reason my first impression of the Edward's brothers was "Smother's Brothers" who were very out going, bright, competitive, and considered themselves lady's men. Oh, they were phylisophical and musical, too.
The brothers challenged Gwen to look at the world through their eyes and see things other than as a tourist, but to live it and see the everyday of each place. (first impression).
8. We finish the first part with a rather shocking statement made by Emerson not necessarily the “shagging” part but the part where he doesn’t believe in “the one”.
From the limited knowledge we have of him, does this outlook fit
OMG, is this guy real? After all the wonderful things they did for the afternoon, all the wonderful things they shared, talked about, the things he awakened in Gwen and then BANG "Oh BTW, I only want to Shag you, no commitment, no ties, just a fling, well not even that" geez. Well I won't type out what my response to that would have been and I can't believe Debbie is making us wait for a week to find out what Gwen's answer was (just kidding, girl).
Where's the chocolate, I need some after that cliff hanger!!!!
Muse
Mountain_Muse wrote:
B, like another traveller or two jet lag and layovers has me trying to catch up with the rest of the tour. I hope I haven't missed too much. Breaks in hydrolic lines on 747s can sure put the brakes on take off...so, not to speak of the ground crew forgetting to put the go juice in the tank (no joke). Any way we have arrived, a day late, but not a dollar short.1. First thoughtsLike the rest of the crew, I am finding this book to be a real hoot, and a real refreshing read. If things keep going like the start (especially the sing along at the end of the flight) I'll be running for the necessary room knock-kneed.
2. Tell us what you think of the S&M club and it’s members
Love them, love them, love them!!!!! There is no humor (dry) greater than that of super geeks, cops, or cone-heads. Being married to a cop and having several friends who worked at Los Alamos or Sandia Labs....Marilyn you nailed the characters. All the double innuendo and tossing numbers around like candy had me cracking up.... oh yes, I kept reminding myself, these are true geeks. Then you threw in the free-living kink, oh well, what can I say...magic.
3. First impression of Aunt Bea
Ginger, I knew the name "Aunt Bea" was haunting me. Lol But this is definitely NOT Andy's Aunt Bea.
4. Knowing the age of the S&M club and Aunt Bea are you surprised by the suggestions of a “summer fling” to Gwen
See above
6. Gwen first starts to enjoy her trip with her flight down the steps in the Isle of Capri
and until she’s observed by her group she seems to have taken a more carefree outlook
why is this where her interest starts and why does her being noticed negatively affect her actions
Seeing that little kid on the steps sparked something loose in Gwen and turned her "little girl" free. She suddenly found joy in the moment in the simplicity of dancing down the steps of Capri. How long had it been since she had been able to enjoy that simple joy in life -- running down the steps? Not since she was a kid and her mom died and she had to suddenly grow up and become the adult and take care of her younger sibling(s). She was able to forget herself in the beauty of the day and just enjoy -- until she looked up and suddenly realized that she was under scrutiny, then she remembered she needed to be an adult (who she was supposed to be) again. What a let down. I sensed her disapointment.
7. We meet the Edward’s brothers, what are your thoughts on them and how Gwen feels they “awakened” Europe for her
Don't ask why, but for some reason my first impression of the Edward's brothers was "Smother's Brothers" who were very out going, bright, competitive, and considered themselves lady's men. Oh, they were phylisophical and musical, too.
The brothers challenged Gwen to look at the world through their eyes and see things other than as a tourist, but to live it and see the everyday of each place. (first impression).
8. We finish the first part with a rather shocking statement made by Emerson not necessarily the “shagging” part but the part where he doesn’t believe in “the one”.
From the limited knowledge we have of him, does this outlook fit
OMG, is this guy real? After all the wonderful things they did for the afternoon, all the wonderful things they shared, talked about, the things he awakened in Gwen and then BANG "Oh BTW, I only want to Shag you, no commitment, no ties, just a fling, well not even that" geez. Well I won't type out what my response to that would have been and I can't believe Debbie is making us wait for a week to find out what Gwen's answer was (just kidding, girl).
Where's the chocolate, I need some after that cliff hanger!!!!
Muse
Okay Muse, after a grilling board meeting last night that went LATE I might add and to sit at my desk with the IV just installed and dripping Starbucks into my veins
to see this post and almost fall out of my chair, so thank you.
Oh and now I'll never get Tommy and Dick out of my head, so yeah thanks for that too.
Marilyn, one the best things about these club "meetings" is the honesty the author will bring to us whether intentional or not and you my dear are one of the truest that visit, when you said
THANK YOU!!! I'm thrilled you're enjoying it so much! I can't tell you what a huge gift it is to get to talk about A Summer in Europe with you and this wonderful book club. I spent over a year writing this novel, and there were days when I remember wondering (in a pit of authorial despair, LOL) if it was ever going to make sense to anyone but me, and if I was the only one who'd find these characters amusing... So, I say again, thank you!
It makes the read so much more personal to me and it really gives me insight into the plight of authors who most of the time seem removed from the general reading population by bringing to us the trials that you go through not only professionaly but personally as well
You are a masterful storyteller so put that in your pipe next time you feel unworthy 
MarilynBrant wrote:
Catherine,
As Debbie said, you're doing a great job! (And LOL about her subliminal tape!! You gotta watch out for our fearless moderator. She may well send one to you. ) I'm so, so glad you decided to join the discussion.
I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your mom when you were young. I know I've been fortunate in that area, but I have friends who experienced early parental losses, and they've said it's an ache they always have inside. For me, I know I would definitely fixate on the age thing, so I appreciate that you found this to be a realistic trait for Gwen, and I love all of the insights you shared on her character.
When you said in the first paragraph about how -- like Gwen -- you're influenced by music and art, which songs or artistic pieces were ones that stood out for you? Are you a fan of musicals, too? I was talking with some friends on Twitter today about "The Music Man"...and now I just can't get that soundtrack out of my head! ("Pick a little, talk a little, cheep, cheep, cheep, talk a lot, pick a little more...")
~Marilyn
“Love Changes Everything” that is probably my favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber song. I don’t have GOLD: The Definitive Hits Collection like Gwen. I have Andrew Lloyd Webber The Greatest Songs by the Stars of the London Stage. I have been singing that song now since I began the book. It runs through my head at work. I was so surprised that that was the song that felt so personal for Gwen. It is not one of his better known songs, so it made Gwen’s experience very personal for me. I related to her immediately because we share that song!
Music in a more general way influences mood and I play sad songs when I’m sad and upbeat songs when I’m in a good mood. I pop in a CD when I’m driving and I don’t care so much when someone cuts me off because the music has a calming effect. I am not a huge fan of musicals, but Oklahoma is one of my favorites! So again the book is speaking to me personally.
Thank you for your kind words about my mother’s death. I was only three when she died, so I don’t have any memories of her. That was a long time ago!
I can’t wait to continue the story. I’m trying not to read ahead, but it is hard.
Are we allowed to ask you questions about the writing process, or do we just stick to the plot and characters of the book?
Catherine
Catherine111 wrote:
MarilynBrant wrote:
Catherine,
As Debbie said, you're doing a great job! (And LOL about her subliminal tape!! You gotta watch out for our fearless moderator. She may well send one to you.
I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your mom when you were young. I know I've been fortunate in that area, but I have friends who experienced early parental losses, and they've said it's an ache they always have inside. For me, I know I would definitely fixate on the age thing, so I appreciate that you found this to be a realistic trait for Gwen, and I love all of the insights you shared on her character.
When you said in the first paragraph about how -- like Gwen -- you're influenced by music and art, which songs or artistic pieces were ones that stood out for you? Are you a fan of musicals, too? I was talking with some friends on Twitter today about "The Music Man"...and now I just can't get that soundtrack out of my head! ("Pick a little, talk a little, cheep, cheep, cheep, talk a lot, pick a little more...")
~Marilyn
“Love Changes Everything” that is probably my favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber song. I don’t have GOLD: The Definitive Hits Collection like Gwen. I have Andrew Lloyd Webber The Greatest Songs by the Stars of the London Stage. I have been singing that song now since I began the book. It runs through my head at work. I was so surprised that that was the song that felt so personal for Gwen. It is not one of his better known songs, so it made Gwen’s experience very personal for me. I related to her immediately because we share that song!
Music in a more general way influences mood and I play sad songs when I’m sad and upbeat songs when I’m in a good mood. I pop in a CD when I’m driving and I don’t care so much when someone cuts me off because the music has a calming effect. I am not a huge fan of musicals, but Oklahoma is one of my favorites! So again the book is speaking to me personally.
Thank you for your kind words about my mother’s death. I was only three when she died, so I don’t have any memories of her. That was a long time ago!
I can’t wait to continue the story. I’m trying not to read ahead, but it is hard.
Are we allowed to ask you questions about the writing process, or do we just stick to the plot and characters of the book?
Catherine
Catherine, thank you so much for sharing such personal things with us, I feel that you're already one of us so thank you for the trust.
You may ask Marilyn anything you like, she is a prisoner guest all month and happy to answer your questions and I and the other members here always go off the beaten path.
The questions I ask are just a guide line and I always encourage anyone to just use them as a starting point they are not set in stone or gospel.
Oh and music just like love makes the world go round, my personal favorites are my beloved and much played and replaced sound track from Out of Africa and anything by Rachmaninoff especially Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. from the movie Somewhere in Time. Yes I'm a romantic
Mountain_Muse wrote:
B, like another traveller or two jet lag and layovers has me trying to catch up with the rest of the tour. I hope I haven't missed too much. Breaks in hydrolic lines on 747s can sure put the brakes on take off...so, not to speak of the ground crew forgetting to put the go juice in the tank (no joke). Any way we have arrived, a day late, but not a dollar short.1. First thoughtsLike the rest of the crew, I am finding this book to be a real hoot, and a real refreshing read. If things keep going like the start (especially the sing along at the end of the flight) I'll be running for the necessary room knock-kneed.
2. Tell us what you think of the S&M club and it’s members
Love them, love them, love them!!!!! There is no humor (dry) greater than that of super geeks, cops, or cone-heads. Being married to a cop and having several friends who worked at Los Alamos or Sandia Labs....Marilyn you nailed the characters. All the double innuendo and tossing numbers around like candy had me cracking up.... oh yes, I kept reminding myself, these are true geeks. Then you threw in the free-living kink, oh well, what can I say...magic.
3. First impression of Aunt Bea
Ginger, I knew the name "Aunt Bea" was haunting me. Lol But this is definitely NOT Andy's Aunt Bea.
4. Knowing the age of the S&M club and Aunt Bea are you surprised by the suggestions of a “summer fling” to Gwen
See above
6. Gwen first starts to enjoy her trip with her flight down the steps in the Isle of Capri
and until she’s observed by her group she seems to have taken a more carefree outlook
why is this where her interest starts and why does her being noticed negatively affect her actions
Seeing that little kid on the steps sparked something loose in Gwen and turned her "little girl" free. She suddenly found joy in the moment in the simplicity of dancing down the steps of Capri. How long had it been since she had been able to enjoy that simple joy in life -- running down the steps? Not since she was a kid and her mom died and she had to suddenly grow up and become the adult and take care of her younger sibling(s). She was able to forget herself in the beauty of the day and just enjoy -- until she looked up and suddenly realized that she was under scrutiny, then she remembered she needed to be an adult (who she was supposed to be) again. What a let down. I sensed her disapointment.
7. We meet the Edward’s brothers, what are your thoughts on them and how Gwen feels they “awakened” Europe for her
Don't ask why, but for some reason my first impression of the Edward's brothers was "Smother's Brothers" who were very out going, bright, competitive, and considered themselves lady's men. Oh, they were phylisophical and musical, too.
The brothers challenged Gwen to look at the world through their eyes and see things other than as a tourist, but to live it and see the everyday of each place. (first impression).
8. We finish the first part with a rather shocking statement made by Emerson not necessarily the “shagging” part but the part where he doesn’t believe in “the one”.
From the limited knowledge we have of him, does this outlook fit
OMG, is this guy real? After all the wonderful things they did for the afternoon, all the wonderful things they shared, talked about, the things he awakened in Gwen and then BANG "Oh BTW, I only want to Shag you, no commitment, no ties, just a fling, well not even that" geez. Well I won't type out what my response to that would have been and I can't believe Debbie is making us wait for a week to find out what Gwen's answer was (just kidding, girl).
Where's the chocolate, I need some after that cliff hanger!!!!
Muse
Muse, you're not late at all! Perfect timing .
I just got home after a full morning away and was excited to see all of the new messages! I'll reply to as many as I can before I need to pick up my son, and will get to the rest tonight when the house is calm again...
Muse, you wrote: "There is no humor (dry) greater than that of super geeks, cops, or cone-heads. Being married to a cop and having several friends who worked at Los Alamos or Sandia Labs....Marilyn you nailed the characters."
Oh, thank you! How frightening is it that I didn't even have to reach all that far to create these lovable mathematical geeks?! Welcome to my family . (*waving* Hi, Dad! Hi, Bro!) My son, father and brother all play Sudoku -- though not at a competitive level -- so we've all worked on puzzles together during holidays and other family events. My mom, aunts, uncles and cousins are fairly seriously into the math-sciences, too, and so we'd do things in a whole group, like solve story problems, during big gatherings for fun. It was the source of much amusement to my husband, who assured me that this was not at all "normal family behavior" in his experience, LOL.
BTW, my husband's brother is a cop and the manuscript I'm working on now has a cop character, so I've been channeling him a lot!
As far as Emerson's statement at the end of Chapter 4, I would imagine your response to someone saying something like that (and my response, too...) would be a bit different from Gwen's, though I know I wouldn't be any less shocked!
Breaking open the "Manner" chocolate from Austria for you and the gang to enjoy:
dhaupt wrote:
Marilyn, one the best things about these club "meetings" is the honesty the author will bring to us whether intentional or not and you my dear are one of the truest that visit, when you said
THANK YOU!!! I'm thrilled you're enjoying it so much! I can't tell you what a huge gift it is to get to talk about A Summer in Europe with you and this wonderful book club. I spent over a year writing this novel, and there were days when I remember wondering (in a pit of authorial despair, LOL) if it was ever going to make sense to anyone but me, and if I was the only one who'd find these characters amusing... So, I say again, thank you!
It makes the read so much more personal to me and it really gives me insight into the plight of authors who most of the time seem removed from the general reading population by bringing to us the trials that you go through not only professionaly but personally as well
You are a masterful storyteller so put that in your pipe next time you feel unworthy
Deb,
xoxox!!!
I am copying "You are a masterful storyteller, says Deb" onto a notecard and keeping it by my computer. Tomorrow is a full writing day on a project I've only half completed...and I know I'm going to need that little boost . Thank you, my dear!
I think one of the odd paradoxes about being a writer is the bizarre combination of ego and insecurity that many of us have to wrestle with daily. After all, a part of us has to be convinced that we have something valuable to say, in some form or another (i.e., essays, stories, poetry, etc.), that other people wouldn't be completely wasting their time to read. People without that streak of ego would never submit their work for publication! On the other hand, most writers read an awful lot, and we come across so many incredibly written stories that it can be quite intimidating and lead us down a path of insecurity. I actually don't know of a single novelist -- whether it's someone still aspiring, newly published or a NYT bestseller -- that isn't a mass of contradiction in this area. The minute we dare to think some scene we wrote is "good," we fear every other scene in that same chapter is dreadful. And then we'll read a review on Amazon where a kind reader raved about a story we wrote...our spirits will soar...and then we'll look at our current work-in-progress, convinced we will never be able to write another book as well ever again, LOL.
We are a little crazy in that way...
~M.
Catherine111 wrote:
“Love Changes Everything” that is probably my favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber song. I don’t have GOLD: The Definitive Hits Collection like Gwen. I have Andrew Lloyd Webber The Greatest Songs by the Stars of the London Stage. I have been singing that song now since I began the book. It runs through my head at work. I was so surprised that that was the song that felt so personal for Gwen. It is not one of his better known songs, so it made Gwen’s experience very personal for me. I related to her immediately because we share that song!
Music in a more general way influences mood and I play sad songs when I’m sad and upbeat songs when I’m in a good mood. I pop in a CD when I’m driving and I don’t care so much when someone cuts me off because the music has a calming effect. I am not a huge fan of musicals, but Oklahoma is one of my favorites! So again the book is speaking to me personally.
Thank you for your kind words about my mother’s death. I was only three when she died, so I don’t have any memories of her. That was a long time ago!
I can’t wait to continue the story. I’m trying not to read ahead, but it is hard.
Are we allowed to ask you questions about the writing process, or do we just stick to the plot and characters of the book?
Catherine
Catherine,
I *love* "Love Changes Everything," too, and you're right -- it's not one of Webber's better known songs, but I think it's so beautiful, especially the way Michael Ball sings it, plus the lyrics are wonderful...sigh. I'm delighted to know it's a selection that resonates for you as well!!
On a personal note, I'm a huge music lover, so the song choices I include in any novel or short story I write are rarely arbitrary. Sometimes it's that a title is really fitting or, to me, funny given the action in a scene -- but, usually, I won't chose a piece for an important scene unless the lyrics gel in some way with the character or the theme, too. I had a lot of fun with "The Phantom of the Opera" in this book because of the love triangle and the masquerade elements, not to mention Christine's close relationship with her father and how that loss left her searching for guidance. Plus, Gwen and the gang get to visit Paris, where "Phantom" is set and, of course, London, where the musical has played for so many years... So, really, the song choices are my special little messages that, hopefully, don't distract readers who are uninterested in the lyrics but -- for those who care about such things -- it's a private joke between us .
And, YES!! As Deb said, you can ask me ANY questions here. It can be about the story, of course, but it can be about anything else, too. I could chat for DAYS just about desserts (!!), but I'm happy to share anything about the writing process, other novels, my family, travel experiences, cute actors...anything you and the club are curious about this month. Really.
~M.
Debbie wrote: You may ask Marilyn anything you like, she is aprisonerguest all month and happy to answer your questions and I and the other members here always go off the beaten path.
seattle07 wrote:
Hi everyone,
Marilyn and Debbie, I'm +1 on the Mayan chocolate and raspberry gelato. I'll bring lots of spumoni to share with everyone.
Catherine, I'm glad that you posted about asking Marilyn questions. Marilyn, did you have a soundtrack for the first four chapters or a theme song for any of the characters? The only theme songs I can think of are: Gwen-Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) and Britsicles-I'm Too Sexy. Love the Britsicles term-makes me laugh every time I read it.
-Seattle07
Deb, LOL!!! Well, I am a happy and most honored "prisoner."
Everyone, please feel free to ask as many questions as you'd like!! I have family and writing stuff that I'm juggling during the day, too, but I will always answer as soon as I can .
Seattle,
Glad you liked the term "Britsicles"!!
In the response I made to Catherine's comment, I talked a little about the role "The Phantom of the Opera" played in the book -- so definitely I was using songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and a few other musicals throughout. You can bet there are some "Sound of Music" references coming up when the tour reaches Austria...LOL. I pretty much live with a music soundtrack in my head. (Does anyone else here experience this? All day, in the back of your mind, different songs play -- like a personal radio station -- and if someone were to ask you what was on, you'd be able to pause for a moment, listen, and tell them?) Anyway, it's natural for me to narrate a story with a soundtrack, like we might have in a movie, but the songs tend to be specific to a situation or to how a character would perceive it...
Now you've got me thinking about one specific song for a character, like a personality trait that is consistent through the book -- what a great question! That isn't something I did in any conscious way with A Summer in Europe, but you've got me pondering it. I will say, "Love Changes Everything" is more about what Gwen and a few of the other characters learn...it isn't about her personality. So, I like your "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" idea and I'd be really curious to know if anyone else has other song choices that exemplify her character or someone else's in the story...
Time to get my son! Be back later~
M.
dhaupt wrote:
BTW, you've reminded me to ask everyone: What flavors of gelato do you all want to have for a refreshing, post-sightseeing, afternoon treat?! I'm taking orders...
~Marilyn
well you cant go wrong with chocolate so
Mayan Chocolate & Chocolate Raspberry
I didn't get back in time the other day to put in my order, but my favorites are fig, almond and caramel (it was called something that reminded me of dulce de leche). I got out my lemoncello (how could I have forgotten lemoncello) and had some spumoni (Thank you!) and I looked for my ALW CDs (found only Phantom and Cats 
)
And. . . Britcicles 
! And theme music . . . Britcicles--I'm Too Sexy !
This trip is great! Where are we going to dinner tonight? We can gossip speculate about Emerson. Will he charm Gwen into shagging?
Catherine111 wrote:
MarilynBrant wrote:
Catherine,
As Debbie said, you're doing a great job! (And LOL about her subliminal tape!! You gotta watch out for our fearless moderator. She may well send one to you.
I'm very sorry to hear about the loss of your mom when you were young. I know I've been fortunate in that area, but I have friends who experienced early parental losses, and they've said it's an ache they always have inside. For me, I know I would definitely fixate on the age thing, so I appreciate that you found this to be a realistic trait for Gwen, and I love all of the insights you shared on her character.
When you said in the first paragraph about how -- like Gwen -- you're influenced by music and art, which songs or artistic pieces were ones that stood out for you? Are you a fan of musicals, too? I was talking with some friends on Twitter today about "The Music Man"...and now I just can't get that soundtrack out of my head! ("Pick a little, talk a little, cheep, cheep, cheep, talk a lot, pick a little more...")
~Marilyn
“Love Changes Everything” that is probably my favorite Andrew Lloyd Webber song. I don’t have GOLD: The Definitive Hits Collection like Gwen. I have Andrew Lloyd Webber The Greatest Songs by the Stars of the London Stage. I have been singing that song now since I began the book. It runs through my head at work. I was so surprised that that was the song that felt so personal for Gwen. It is not one of his better known songs, so it made Gwen’s experience very personal for me. I related to her immediately because we share that song!
Music in a more general way influences mood and I play sad songs when I’m sad and upbeat songs when I’m in a good mood. I pop in a CD when I’m driving and I don’t care so much when someone cuts me off because the music has a calming effect. I am not a huge fan of musicals, but Oklahoma is one of my favorites! So again the book is speaking to me personally.
Thank you for your kind words about my mother’s death. I was only three when she died, so I don’t have any memories of her. That was a long time ago!
I can’t wait to continue the story. I’m trying not to read ahead, but it is hard.
Are we allowed to ask you questions about the writing process, or do we just stick to the plot and characters of the book?
Catherine
Catherine,
My heart to you about your mom. I know that makes this book "ring" for you.
For me, it is Gwen's music ties, and obviously a couple of the old "hoots'" old of music. There wasn't a song on that plane that they sang that I didn't go soaring with them. I could even hear the off key attempts of harmony (Lord help us). But by the time they got to Oklahoma I was wiping tears of mirth of my face and my husband, once again, had that "where's the straight jacket" look on his.
Ah Frank Llyod Webber....How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Huhhhhhhhh. After not singing for many years, except in church choir and for my kids, I was asked to sing for a local function. I decided that I wanted to sing Think of Me as one of the two numbers that I was singing. The second was a classical sacred piece. I rehearsed for weeks to get back to performance levels to do the piece and still remember the shocked look on my friends faces, who had known me for 10 years. After that performance, I put away the piece and didn't sing again for years. You know, I kinda know how Gwen felt running down those steps. It let my "little girl" out of the closet for that evening and I basked in her fun and glory for that night. Then put my grown-up back on and went back to being an adult with my adult responsibilities.
Muse
whiteginger wrote:
I didn't get back in time the other day to put in my order, but my favorites are fig, almond and caramel (it was called something that reminded me of dulce de leche). I got out my lemoncello (how could I have forgotten lemoncello) and had some spumoni (Thank you!) and I looked for my ALW CDs (found only Phantom and Cats
And. . . Britcicles
This trip is great! Where are we going to dinner tonight? We can
gossipspeculate about Emerson. Will he charm Gwen into shagging?
whiteginger,
Love your gelato faves (fig!!) and your plan to go out to dinner tonight. I'm thinking a little Italian place that serves all of the traditional dishes. I'm in the mood for homemade cheese-stuffed ravioli in a chunky marinara sauce . You??
Emerson might pop by in time for dessert and grab a cannoli to go. We can take guesses as to where he's headed, but I know he won't answer any questions directly. He's evasive that way...
~M.
