Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

This topic is open for discussion of Red Seas Under Red Skies by Scott Lynch.




Book Synopsis:

After a brutal battle with the underworld that nearly destroyed him, Locke and his trusted sidekick, Jean, fled the island city of their birth and landed on the exotic shores of Tal Verrar to nurse their wounds. But even at this westernmost edge of civilization, they can't rest for long � and are soon back to what they do best: stealing from the undeserving rich and pocketing the proceeds for themselves.

This time, however, they have targeted the grandest prize of all: the Sinspire, the most exclusive and heavily guarded gambling house in the world. lts nine floors attract the wealthiest clientele � and to rise to the top, one must impress with good credit, amusing behavior... and excruciatingly impeccable play. For there is one cardinal rule, enforced by Requin, the house's cold-
blooded master: it is death to cheat at any game at the Sinspire.

Brazenly undeterred, Locke and Jean have orchestrated an elaborate plan to lie, trick, and swindle their way up the nine floors... straight to Requin's teeming vault. Under the cloak of false identities, they meticulously make their climb � until they are closer to the spoils than ever.

But someone in Tal Verrar has uncovered the duo's secret. Someone from their past who has every intention of making the impudent criminals pay for their sins. Now it will take every ounce of cunning to save their mercenary souls. And even that may not be enough...

Reserved

Reserved

I'm in!

Yay! Can't wait to read this :)

Am in for this :)

Oh I want to read this, but I can't get there this month

Im in but wont be as fast a read

I'm in !

I will do this but not right away....Karen, I can start later with you :-)

Can't wait! Just finished book 1 last night and I'm itching for more :)

Hello! Can't wait to start this :) Are the page #s for different editions much more consistent this time?

Im in too, just need to finish the first book now

Greta wrote: "I will do this but not right away....Karen, I can start later with you :-)"

Thanks :)

I want to read this too but can't work it in this month.

Went to the bookstore to buy today and they only had book 3 :(

Still bought that, but will have to wait for a copy of Red Seas to come in!

Starting this tonight! Can't wait to see what is going on with our main characters.

So after reading a couple of chapters (on chapter 3, I think), I am being steadily reminded why I loved the first one. However, I think Scott Lynch has improved on his descriptions. The descriptions in this book seem a lot clearer and I am having less trouble picturing the setting. I am also being slightly reminded of all the Ocean movies lol

I can tell I'm going to like this book even better than the first. (view spoiler)[

Already, Lynch is interweaving the schemes and the plots, making it seem impossible for Locke to get both the loot and the revenge. I have a feeling he might have to sacrifice one for the other, but we'll see. Also...seriously...where the hell is Sabetha? (hide spoiler)]

I just put this on hold at the library. Can't wait for them to call my number. Lol.

The descriptions of all the rich people in this book make me wish I had more money lol There is something inherently greedy about this series, and in some ways Lynch glorifies this greed, but he also shows how it leads to multiple downfalls. Not just greed for money either. There's this insane lust for power that all the major players in both this book and the first tend to fight over. And a lot of times they don't even have intricate plans- they rely on others to make those plans for them. I find this interesting since there is a huge lack of trust between most of the richer and more successful people, yet they trust a lot of those who are poor or hired, etc. I'm guessing because there is a greater risk for those 'lesser' people to double-cross them, but I also think it's because the power players think they are untouchable by anything except public appearance and the culture of luxury.

(Sorry I'm kind reading this fast. I need it for a lot of challenges, and also trying to lose a bunch of weight in this weight-loss contest and the only way I'll exercise is by reading at the same time lol)

(view spoiler)[ I also love the descriptions of the games. Sort of a Gladiators/Hunger Games situation. If I were to write my own fantasy series, I think those little parts- the ones that we often, as readers, take for granted, would be the most fun to write. (hide spoiler)]

Taryn wrote: "trying to lose a bunch of weight in this weight-loss contest and the only way I'll exercise is by reading at the same time lol"

That's brilliant! I should set aside one of my books (that I'm enjoying) as a treadmill book and only read it then. Every time I sit down to read I feel like the treadmill is glaring at me, taunting me.

Of course, it would have to be a book I own rather than a library book or I have no hope of finishing it.

Cynthia wrote: "Taryn wrote: "trying to lose a bunch of weight in this weight-loss contest and the only way I'll exercise is by reading at the same time lol"

That's brilliant! I should set aside one of my books (..."

Seriously, it's the only thing that keeps me exercising. When I run/walk/intervals, I listen to audiobooks. And I am only allowed to listen to audiobooks when I am doing those things. And then I save my physical books for the stationary bike. Sometimes I'll exercise just because I can't wait to see what happens next in a book. THAT'S when you know it's working lol

And, full disclosure, I hate exercise more than any person alive. I really, really do.

It is a really bad reflection on society when I get super excited because whenever Lynch mentions a career he says, 'men and women' instead of just men. face/palm

It's true, though. Especially to find dark fantasy that's so pro-fem.

I'm scouring my books trying to choose what to read next...I think I'm starting this one tonight.

Cynthia wrote: "It's true, though. Especially to find dark fantasy that's so pro-fem.

I'm scouring my books trying to choose what to read next...I think I'm starting this one tonight."

Yes do! So we can talk about it! lol My selfishness should make your decision for you ;)

You've twisted my arm. I've finished updated my spreadsheet(s) and starting now.

Yay! It's sooo good by the way. Both surprised and impressed.

I have just started this one and am in the first chapter. I agree with you Taryn - the series seems to be one filled with immense greed and lust for power and money but somehow despite all that I find myself rooting for the Gentleman Bastards!

(view spoiler)[I love the way Lynch has created this world of Tal Verrar with its opulence and gambling dens etc, it reminds me of Las Vegas, although I have never been there and am basing my resemblance on what I have read through books only. Do you feel the same way? (hide spoiler)]

I didn't realize there was a buddy read set up for this book! I just downloaded it yesterday, so what good timing! I'll definitely join in.

I finaly got to start it and after the prologue I was like: Whaaaaaat!!!! I don't understand, what... What happened??

But now that I've read a little more I'm really hoping it's (view spoiler)[ the bondsmage using Jean as a puppet and not Jean turning on Locke (hide spoiler)]

Angel wrote: "I finaly got to start it and after the prologue I was like: Whaaaaaat!!!! I don't understand, what... What happened??

But now that I've read a little more I'm really hoping it's [spoilers removed]"

I don't know how far along you are, so probably maybe not read this until you get to Chapter 6, but I was thinking that the Prologue meant (view spoiler)[that Jean and Locke had found a way to get back at both the archon and Requin in a way that tricks the absolute shit out of them lol (hide spoiler)].

I've only reached chapter 2, I'll tell you what I think about your theory when I'll be there

I think Scott Lynch has a slight obsession with sharks. First all the sharks, shark teeth etc in book one and now we have a character named requin (=shark in french)

Yes, he does love his sharks. What symbolism! I may start calling Requin The Shark. I keep saying Requiem when his name appears, and it's freaking me out. The Shark is slightly less ominous.

I have also reached Chapter 2. At this point I also felt the same as you Angel, regarding the Prologue. (view spoiler)[Looks like it is the bondsmage who have gotten Jean. I sure think so.. OR it could be that these two wily guys are looking for some major con here, wouldn't put that beyond them! Lol (hide spoiler)]

Thoroughly enjoying this one.. Sigh it feels good to be back in the Locke world. :)

And I agree there seems to be an obsession with sharks. Shark's eye as a delicacy as well...Hmm I have seen the Vietnamese, especially towards the south eat fish eye soup. Not sure if it is popular anywhere else in the world..but this one has one gigantic eye floating in the soup...I am not usually squeamish when it comes to food but this one definitely gave me the jitters! It looked like the eye of Sauron coming to haunt me from a soup! LOL

Chapter 2 (view spoiler)[Reading this one, I was like.. WHAT????? Have these two gone crazy? And then I laughed out loud and settled to see what these two madcaps are going to do.. what a brilliant plan. I love the way the reminisces are there at the end of each chapter. It shows the progression easily and it makes the reader want to know more. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 3 (view spoiler)[Ohh boy.. what have they gotten into now? I am simply amazed at the tenacity with which these two survive these odds. Can't wait to see what happens next. This one is more fascinating than the first book and I LOVED the first one. Rooting for Locke and Jean as usual. I really loved the scene at the end with the Guildmistress Gallardine! I was totally laughing at the end as I realised what Locke meant earlier when he told Requin to ask around and see if they are prepared! LOL (hide spoiler)]

Taryn wrote: "Cynthia wrote: "Taryn wrote: "trying to lose a bunch of weight in this weight-loss contest and the only way I'll exercise is by reading at the same time lol"

That's brilliant! I should set aside o..."

I am going to have to try this, it might actually work for me!

Library hold came in, so I'm finally reading it!!!

Only read the Prologue so far and it left me going "WHAT!!!!"

Everything I've read so far is What!!! I got sidetracked with some other books, but I'm going to get a few chapters of this one read tonight.

It's like a special treat that sits on the nightstand. I like reading it after I settle into bed.

Talia wrote: "I didn't realize there was a buddy read set up for this book! I just downloaded it yesterday, so what good timing! I'll definitely join in."

Talia, are you doing the BR through AMMP for this book too? We have one set up there!

Snowtulip wrote: "Library hold came in, so I'm finally reading it!!!

Only read the Prologue so far and it left me going "WHAT!!!!""

Yes, exactly!! I started yesterday with the prologue and had the same thought. It seems there must be more to it though...

Greta wrote: "Snowtulip wrote: "Library hold came in, so I'm finally reading it!!!

Only read the Prologue so far and it left me going "WHAT!!!!""

Yes, exactly!! I started yesterday with the prologue and had t..."

I know, I'm so anxious to see what it really means!

Sorry everyone. I am having a late start but I am starting the book now. :)

That's okay, Rachel. I'm still pretty early in, too.

Okay I'm on page 238. It's a long book. A big book with a lot of things going on.

In the prologue I was shocked! (view spoiler)[ Why would Jean betray his best buddy Locke? I know it' all come out later on but still why mus Lynch start off the book that way. So not right. (hide spoiler)]

In Part 1 Chapter 1 (1-6)
Talk about an investment, planning, and patience. (view spoiler)[ Locke and Jean having worked 2 years to cheat their way up to the 5th floor of the Sinspire. That's just amazing because this is a long time investment. I hope what they have plan works for them because 2 years is a long time. (hide spoiler)]

I love the whole cards thing happening. I also reminds me of Ocean's Eleven. I laughed at this part, (view spoiler)[Madam Durenna watching Locke and Jean cheating and she rolls her eyes. Later on it unfold what they were really doing with the Bela paranella. Those sneaky guys, drugging her like that. (hide spoiler)]

I wonder what lies on the 6th floor.

Right after the cards. (view spoiler)[The duel. So who is this mysterious lady in black. It happens right before Locke and Jean have their issue with merchants that are being influenced by the bondsmage for Falconer of Karthain. I think she was apart of them too. (hide spoiler)]

Resminiscence: The Capa of the Vel Virazzo

Jean. (view spoiler)[ Okay, Jean is a badass. He is just awesome. Beating up and taking over the Brass Cove. That was real neat. What is better than that is when is arguing with Locke and pours the bucket over Locke, "You needed a bath, You were covered in self-pity." LOL, awesome. I'm glad he intervened because that's what Locke needed. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 2:
(view spoiler)[ Requin if petty violent. It reminds me of the movie Casino.

I love how Locke was holding 5 different decks of cards to make a point.

Okay, Jean reading romance books. That made it into this books too. LOL. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 3
(view spoiler)[ I really think the Locke and Jean will turn the tables around with Stragos. I wonder if he really poisoned them.

I think Jean is right about the bondsmage not being mind readers and just being good spies. It's a wonderful theory and I hope he is right.

Wow! Gallardine's story about Requin and Selendri. That was intense. (hide spoiler)]

I have to say that Jean is now my favorite. I think Locke is funny and resourceful, but Jean is strong on the outside with a soft(not weak) interior. I think he's also smarter than Locke, though Locke is craftier.

Cynthia wrote: "I have to say that Jean is now my favorite. I think Locke is funny and resourceful, but Jean is strong on the outside with a soft(not weak) interior. I think he's also smarter than Locke, though Lo..."

Jean is definitely my favorite. I knew he would be the moment I met him the first book!!! So I'm on chapter 11 on the second part of the book and things get super crazy. (view spoiler)[ Jean and Locke are kind of at each other's throats, even though it's clear they still care for each other. And for the first time in the series, I've actually been worried about their deaths. They are just not meant to be out at sea. (hide spoiler)]