Hi everyone,
House Andrews are on holiday this week and what most of us wished for them has come true: they have entered vacation mode!
Which I wish for all of us this weekend.
They’ve shared with me that they have had a very productive week creative-wise, and made progress on several projects. Apparently, allowing overworked brains a bit of rest and some sun works wonders on creativity, who could have guessed that? ::silly face:: I kid because I love.
No Innkeeper instalment this week, but I will be in the comments if you have any questions about Sweep of the Heart or anything else you want to know once House Andrews are back.
Elizabeth says
Sun and sunshine are amazing. I’m glad they are having a good vacation!
Bin says
Massive +infinity on this, hope they are having the best time xo
David Becher says
I am curious to know, if we will ever find out about what Augustine learned from Melvin Rider and if he found out who killed his father.
Moderator R says
I will add it to the list āŗļø
Sophie says
Will we get a novel(la) for how Dina’s parents got together? I love the extra of her mum being sold the Inn and now want to know more! Maybe some flashbacks if/when they get found…
BruceR says
Count Rugen … oh wait, that’s a different story.
Jaime says
The duck is perfection. Hereās to a restorative experience (mental health and house-wise) for IA. And the rest of us!
Keera says
That duck is too cute! I have a whole album dedicated to my dog sleeping in the sun light. ????
Glad House Andrews is enjoying the downtime.
Ange in Australia says
Iām currently watching my elderly, disabled cat blissfully sleeping in the sunshine. Therapeutic for both of us in different ways. Iāve also enjoyed some fresh air and winter sunshine in my part of Australia this morning so definitely understand the benefits of sunshine and less stress. I hope HA continue to enjoy their holiday.
Leah says
Hope House Andrews are having a lovely holiday! That duck is a whole mood haha
Andrea says
Can we get a yarn/crafting update? As I get into knitting myself, I appreciate seeing her projects and hearing her thoughts as someone with much more skill.
Leigh Ann Parente says
Ooh! Yes! Agree!! ALL the crafting updates!!!
Judith says
I enjoy those too very much. Having a creative time does not only have to mean plans for books, can be knitting as well! Though… Gordon knitting?
Patricia Scott says
Seems like a great opportunity to reread the existing chapters ā¤ļøā¤ļøā¤ļøā¤ļø
Moderator R says
Hereās the link to all of the chapters, from the start! https://ilona-andrews.com/category/innkeeper-chronicles/sweep-of-the-heart/page/3/
Bookworm says
Mod R, you are a gem! Thank you!! Going to reread before I go in to be induced for labor tomorrow!!
Moderator R says
The safest of deliveries for both you and bebe! <3 Come back and tell us all about the youngest member of the Horde as soon as you get some sleep! (so in 3 years or so :D)
jewelwing says
Good luck tomorrow!
Melisa M. says
Yes have a safe delivery!
Marina says
Hi! Which Asian TV series could be recommended by HA?
Carla says
Waiting is always torture but always worth it! They deserve some R&R.
Moderator R says
There are a few posts about that, here for some of them:
Several titles and their tropes mentioned here: https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/things-i-learned-from-chinese-dramas/
Flameās daughter: https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/flames-daughter/
Moonlight Drawn by Clouds: https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/moonlight-drawn-by-clouds/
Hope some of these help????
Sabrina says
Aaaaand I just noticed my question was already up there ???? whoops! And thanks for the answer ????
reeder says
The burn-out link isn’t working for me?
Kdrama suggestions:
Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (aka Goblin) – This is a good example of a fantasy storyline x comedy x relationships (but not a sexy romance you’d get in the Western world) and some beautiful Korean style visuals. Those who were blown away by the (newer to them) cinematography of Parasite would have expected certain styles if they watched a lot of KDramas. There’s also plenty of product placement/in-episode ads sponsorships which Kdrama watchers also learn to expect. Can be viewed on viki.com from the US
I enjoyed Vincenzo on Netflix last year. Runs more towards the absurd without turning too campy. Bit of a heist x corruption x action/drama/comedy. I’ve almost convinced my partner to watch this just based on a former mob boss being saved by pigeons.
Hotel Del Luna is a fantasy ghost story with amazing costumes and a very strong woman. Like Goblin, it spans multiple periods. This time the woman is the powerful older but young appearing one while the male lead is the younger human.
Crash Landing On You was very popular with the 30+ age group. Has the romance angle, a real life couple (now married) as the leads, and North vs South Korea storyline with good comedic timing to lighten the heaviness.
King The Eternal Monarch with Korean mega star Lee Min Ho was also rather popular internationally.
Most of these are on Netflix. Viki and Kocowa in the US have a good selection of Asian dramas.
Korean Drama, Chinese Drama, and Japanese Drama each have their own different “flavors” and while you can have similar tropes (or even the same actual show done in different languages), the characters will be interpreted differently. It can be easier to describe their current popular tropes and my current annoyances with them.
If you enjoy “Candy” romance where an innocent and spunky woman who is all that is positive, but poor, redeem an a-hole tycoon or school prince, try more recent Chinese dramas or Korean ones about 5-7 years ago.
Harem or reverse harem style romance was also popular between the two on about the same timelines.
A portion of Kdrama trends have moved on to stronger women, some obvious and some not as aggressive but strong in their own way, though there’s still a good bit of being saved by the male hero. Still, some of them save themselves which is a nice change. I think this trend may swing back a bit in a year or two, especially with dramas meant for an older audience, as the recent president belongs to a conservative party and soft power can influence a lot.
Japanese Drama romances and comedies – actors tend to have certain overacting styles. I think this might be expected by domestic audience? I find there are more zany plots and the cold shoulder older male romantic turning point is some type of head pat, back hug, or “where’d that come from” kiss to show returned affections.
Most Asian dramas are not Western sexy.
Moderator R says
Sorry, didn’t realise that was an archived post!
A says
Happy Vacay! Wishing a lovely rest, recharge and sunshiney pretty things all the holiday.
Also Mod R, thanks for the amusing posts… it is fun.
Moderator R says
More next week! Which you will hopefully also like ????
Marie says
*shriek of despair* this is killing, me I need to know who the assassin is yeste- weeks ago ???????? (no pressure intended). Maybe we could do a poll? I would be interested what others think at this point (since it seems it would be uncovered soon enough).
I’m glad HA is enjoying their well-deserved vacation ā¤
jing says
+1
Moderator R says
No assassin poll ????.
We must curb the killing instincts of the Horde, guys!
Andrea Smith says
I’ve had to interact with rude sale associates today. I don’t remember life being so difficult and people seeming so very angry and unhappy. I’d love to see the inn eat a few people and I can’t wait for the sea serpent eat a few angry trees people.
Debs says
Would you know if there are any Iron Covenant books in the near future?
Thank you!
Moderator R says
There has been no talk of abandoning the Iron Covenant series, so yes, there will be future books š
However, House Andrews have decided they will not be announcing projects and deadlines until they have the book/project finished, as per https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/on-being-difficult/ , so I do not have any exact information for you:
In the past, we always shared with you what we were working on. Thatās not working so well anymore, because no matter what we choose to work on, someone is always unhappy that we are not working on the thing they like the most. From now on, we will be like Beyonce dropping her surprise album. We will quietly work and then go, āHere it is, all done!ā
We both want to work at our own pace and take our time. We donāt want the stress of not meeting a deadline. If we donāt meet one, nobody has to know. When things are ready to be published, they will be up on the Release Schedule. We will announce them on the blog and in the newsletter. The retailers will also notify you of availability. We got this.
When things are set in stone, they are always updated in the release schedule here https://ilona-andrews.com/release-schedule/
Dandufrenger says
This brings to mind when I worked for a computer company. The salespeople weāre sternly warned, āDO NOT SELL FUTURES!ā This makes sense because the getting new technology to market always takes longer than one wants and is not as fast, big, great as one predicts.
47th post?
Norbert says
Knowing salespeople- did this ever work? š
Dandufrenger says
No.
jewelwing says
*snicker*
NANCY HASBACH says
I appreciate that they will continue Iron Covenant. I started a reread of Iron and Magic last night. It is one of the most enjoyable to revisit.
I wish them a happy carefree vacation.
wingednike says
Yay for them! I am on vacation mode as well. I escaped work yesterday and do not return until Tuesday.
Meire says
Is this the last Innkeeper book? No, right? It’s not, right? Right?
Moderator R says
No announcement to that end has been made, so no ????. Take a relieved breath, itās not.
JP says
Phew!
Bookwyrm says
And presumably solve their brother’s problem since he showed up on Maud’s doorstep. I would then expect a HEA for him as well once we know him.
sarafina says
They have to find their parents first.
Lee says
Happy to hear that they are able to relax! Thanks, Mod R, for sharing the good news, and for keeping us up to date and entertained.
Robbye M says
I have less of a question and more of a request could the list of candidates bios stay on blog/ be put in the book? I could see my self getting confused on the regular.
Moderator R says
That can definitely be arranged ????
Donna A says
Glad they are enjoying the holiday time. A rest makes everyone feel better ????????
No worries from me, I’ve not been reading the installments as I’m waiting for the finished book.
It’s blooming difficult though, people pop up with comments all over the place and I’m trying to cover my eyes from spoilers while still reading the rest of the blog ????
Hope everyone has a nice weekend, very hot here in London, UK.
Moderator R says
SO hot!
Iām on my 3rd slush puppy!
Sonson says
Oh Slush Puppies take me back to primary school when the ice cream van would be outside the gates for end of day š
May have to have the last 99 flake in the freezerā¦.
Moderator R says
Have you seen the news about the flake shortage? https://www.theguardian.com/food/2022/jun/15/flake-news-why-ice-cream-sellers-are-facing-nightmare-shortages-this-summer
If it’s a favourite, make sure you have a couple extra for July!
KatieB says
Not as hot in the North!
We did however have our patio doors slightly open today It is either 23 or 24 degrees today.
Moderator R says
31Ā° in London! It’s like breathing in soup!
Jean says
I hear that. Summer heat and humidity here in the Chicago area can be like breathing jello. Not fun. Popsicles help!!
Goldie says
I feel for you, it’s just not supposed to get that hot in London! I much prefer breathing ice to breathing soup so our 3.1 deg C here in the deep south of NZ is doubly welcome just now…
Tiana says
Hahahha come to Australia where it is 43 Degrees Celsius over here today!
Big Mike says
Wife and I are visiting first grandchild. What a handsome young man! Also very wiggly and quite determined. Happy vacation to us.
As hard as they work at keeping us entertained, I hope House Andrews spends a month at the beach.
Moderator R says
Happy days ????
Jean says
Mazel tov!! And happy vacation!!
Nancy says
Just happy this is a vacation for them. They deserve it. Still donāt know what Iām supposed to be picking up about the werewolf woman. Not sure what her not shifting means. Iāll find out eventually.
Moderator R says
That’s why it’s a foreshadow š , the future will tell! ????
Eli says
Glad they are decompressing and enjoying their vacation!
Maybe this has been asked before, but is there any thought of doing an Augustine based series? It would be interesting see his perspective on shared events.
Moderator R says
The interest of the BDH in this was noted https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/augustine-montgomery-man-of-mystery/ , but nothing in that direction has been discussed yet :).
No Hidden Legacy universe books have been confirmed after the release of Ruby Fever on the 23rd of August, but if we do get them, Pancakes would probably not be a stranger š
Eli says
Maybe we can have Augustine POV for good behavior, similar to old style Curran POV
I donāt know why, but I feel the Augustine POV would have a lot of fun snark
M says
FYI Harney &Sons is having a 20% sitewide sale Code is HOTSUMMER23 for the tea fans. HA got me to try them.
Moderator R says
Thanks for letting us know, some stocking up will be afoot! I want to try the cinnamon one, I’m just not sure it won’t be too much.
Beth says
On a lot of their teas, they have a āsampleā option. That way you can try, but not jump in the ādeep end of the poolā, though the pool would be ok lately. ????
Moderator R says
Aha! If anyone needs me, I shall be sampling!
Thank you š
Stephanie F says
I love the Herbal Hot Cinnamon Spice from H&S, can’t speak to the regular one as I only drink herbal tea. Other teas I let steep for at least 6 minutes, but with this one I only do 5 as it’s too strong if I leave it in longer. It’s delicious and full bodied (if that makes sense). If you decide to take the plunge, maybe only steep it for 3 – 4 minutes & see how you like it. You can always put the bag back in. I love cinnamon in general so YMMV.
Thanks for all your awesome work! I love your posts & enjoy how you interact with the fandom. I’m sure it’s a relief for HA to know you’re taking care of the blog while they’re away. Glad their getting some R&R and recharging their creative batteries! š
Moderator R says
????
M says
Sorry, a typo (i was typing on a ipad) the code is HOTSUMMER22
kitkat9000 says
Their cinnamon tea is really delicious. I use a vanilla syrup to sweeten it and then drink it hot or cold. Just wish they had a better selection of decaf teas.
Diane Wilson says
Thanks for the sale tip! Enjoying their Black Currant tea this morning. Tower of London is another favorite.
Lara S. says
Yay House Andrews vacation!!
I had asked this in another blog post and now cannot see how to find if anyone answered so am asking again now and will keep this up to see if it is answered…
Where is the back story located about how Sweep folks met folks from the Edge? I know there is a blurb giving backstory in the Sweep serial about some of what has been happening since then but how did I miss them MEETING in the first place? And how the universes overlap/travel between etc. I appreciate any insight and sorry if its a dumb question!
Moderator R says
Hey Lara,
Not a dumb question at all- what you want is the Sweep in Peace Prologue, which will explain the link. (Klaus DeMille is Dina and Maud’s brother.)
George and Jack also make a cameo in Clean Sweep, but not much is explained there š
I’m on hand to explain further if you have any questions about what you read, just comment under any post, I’ll see it š
Leigh Ann Parente says
Sorry! Overlapping posts! You can delete my reply.
Lara S. says
Bless you for this. I am now up to date. I think I read this once and then totally didn’t file it away properly in my brain to access when it all started to come together….
So I’ll re-re-re-read Clean Sweep to get it all straight in my head again! Poor brain can’t keep up.
Sara B. says
Yes – but the appearance in Clean Sweep is more of an “uncredited cameo”, and I didn’t figure it out until my 3rd re-read of the series.
… š
Moderator R says
Yep, yep, that is a very sneaky show for our Edge boys, as is the “He seemed familiar” throwback Dina makes to it in Sweep in Peace š
Sara B. says
It is Sweep In Peace that connects the dots bewteen the DeMilles and George, and all the other connections …
PS – glad that they are featuring Gaston in this book (Sweep of the Heart). He is such a fun character, and I had a great-uncle Gaston from Louisianna … I like to imagine that he was a swash-buckling rogue like our Gaston.
Leigh Ann Parente says
There are a couple initial meetings.
Dina sees George and Jack in Baha Char (sorry if my spelling is off – Iām on my phone.). I think thatās in the first or second innkeeper book.
There is also a snippet, not in the books, where Claus (Dinaās brother) recruits George to be an arbitrator.
The two worlds (Dinaās earth and Georgeās earth) are VERY similar, and can not be traveled between easily. Dina explains this in Sweep in Peace. They have to go thru Baha Char (or other) – direct, non-stop, travel doesnāt seem possible.
Moderator R says
The bit where Klaus recruits George is in the books š , it’s the prologue to Sweep in Peace!
Leigh Ann Parente says
Hi Mod R!
Yay vacation! Hope everyone gets alllllll the rest.
Question/clarification for you on the Elara stuff you mentioned in the previous blog post:
I get the Teddy Joe reference. I (think ) I know the scene youāre talking about, no problem there.
But are you *also* saying we should be able to figure out the chicken thing? Bc I always thought we did NOT have that info anywhere. I thought maybe, in a future book, weād find out. But are you saying the explanation is there now? In what has already been published?
Moderator R says
What I said was that all 3 mysteries, including the chicken joke, “can be figured out from the books and free fiction made available so far”. I stand by it š
I never said it was easy, though. Google is very much your friend š
Leaf says
Iām really hoping that there will be some Arabella books, but is there any thought about doing something about some of the other characters like Augustine?
Moderator R says
No further Hidden Legacy universe books have been confirmed at this point š (after the release of Ruby Fever, ofc).
House Andrews is aware that the BDH wants Augustine https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/augustine-montgomery-man-of-mystery/
…and Leon, and more Cornelius, and ofc Arabella, and Bern and Grandma Frida prequel etc etc :D.
Allison says
The spoiler post got me wondering again (maybe more a question for Ilona): What was the story of the originally planned Julie trilogy? After finishing Magic Triumphs in 2018 House Amdrews had planned to continue with Julie but due to a lot of fans hating her (so sad and am really sorry that happened back then!), it was put on hold. Was any of its intended content connected to the King of Fire and what happened with Moloch? Or about the 4 years before that when she and Erra first went to LA and then continued on? Ilona had said that Yu Fong had been planned to appear and I would really love to know how this tied into the backstory we got in Blood Heir.
Moderator R says
I will add this to the list of questions š
I *can* tell you that House Andrews have stated before that it was never going to be about Julie and Erra’s adventures together, it would have no romantic arc and it’s just not something they were interested in or planned for.
As for Yu Fong, there’s still time for him to maybe or maybe not show up hehehe https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/kd-answers-yay/
Noybswx says
I hope the vacation is awesome! I think it’d be fun to have a poll for the BDH on what pest/ natural disaster/ etc is a deal breaker when choosing where to live! Based off of conversations regarding scorpions, ‘palmetto bugs’, snowstorms. Etc.
Cat Russell says
I’m just so happy HA is getting some quality vacation time I don’t care how long it takes to get another chapter! We, the BDH, are so spoiled by HA ā¤ļø Time for them to spoil themselves!!
Kelly M says
Ooooh, I’m so glad they’re getting a break and actually (hopefully) really truly being able to mentally/physically/emotionally enjoy it! Here’s hoping they come back… ???? (I know in the rare times I get to get away from it all there’s always that little voice in the back of my head that tries to talk me into changing my identity and running away forever, hahaha!)
helbel says
No question, just a thanks for the recent book rec thread. Iām nearly at the end and so far Iāve discovered 8 new authors, bought umpteen new books (so awesome when you discover a new series and can slurp down the entire thing in one go) and Iāve happily passed on those recommendations elsewhere to people who I think would like them. Very happy.
Amanda Dunn says
Iām a big fan of doing not your normal. Itās important. Taking collage classes? Take one that has nothing to do with your major atleast once a year. Sit in front of a computer for work? Go to a park. Write books? Go to an amusement park. The hard part is not feeling guilty about it. Itās okay not to do your normal. Itās healthy. Itās helps your normal. If Gordon and Ilona decided to take a ādonāt do shitā day once a week Iād be first in line to give them a hug, pack them a lunch and swat their hands away from the computers/pens and pencils.
eww says
Brain breaks are necessary for mental health and I hope they are having fun and not frying too badly. I always took one fun course per quarter in college for just that purpose. I was an Animal Science/pre Vet major and I had classes in Country Dance, Folk Dance, Archeology, Astronomy, Bird watching, and Bowling. (I never got to go on the condor counts though). I did just finish the reread of Fated Blades. I do enjoy that universe as well. It could be full of endless possibilities for short stories too.
Sara B. says
Now I am having this mental image of our beloved authors at 6-Flags, riding all the roller coasters …
Vianne Higgins says
So glad they are getting some much needed time to decompress! Sending “good vibes” to all.
Sabrina says
Ooo, here’s a random question: were any new fun KDrama series discovered by HA since the last post about those? ????
I’m well behind the times, but I’m finally hooked on those ???? so recs would be welcome ????
Moderator R says
Lot of interest in these, I see! I have definitely added it to the list for Ilona š
I’ve answered above with a few links which may be helpful????:
Several titles and their tropes mentioned here: https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/things-i-learned-from-chinese-dramas/
Flameās daughter: https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/flames-daughter/
Moonlight Drawn by Clouds: https://ilona-andrews.com/2019/moonlight-drawn-by-clouds/
Sabrina says
Thanks ????
Jeanne Ferguson Turner says
They are definitely past due for a break! Hoping their renovations go great and that their vacation leaves them in a blissful state! Have a fun weekend yourself!
Bill G says
Everyone deserves a break now and then; this certainly applies to House Andrews. And I hope you get one occasionally, Mod R.
Moderator R says
I have a very relaxed schedule, no complaints š
Kimberly au Telemanus says
Iām so happy theyāre getting to relaxāļø
Has there been any info yet on when Sweep of the Heart will be released as an e-book? Or do you have any unofficial guesses, Mod R?
Moderator R says
House Andrews have an outline, but it’s all being written week by week, so I don’t think anyone has a good guess at the moment.
I can tell you it will be definitely novel length https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/chapter-11-part-2/
Kamrin says
Yay for vacation time! Hopefully everyone comes back refreshed and feeling good. Hi Mod R! *waving hands*
Moderator R says
Hi Kamrin! ???? š
Joylyn says
Yeah for vacation mode! Will happily await next installment:)
Juni says
Hi what is the explanation for. Distribution of mass?
For exampleif a human turns into a bat, they must be one very large bat or many many bats ,because ā¦distribution of mass.
So how does Arabella become a huge Monster of Cologne?
Moderator R says
Magic š
jewelwing says
The distribution of mass stuff assumes the same law applies in the HL universe as they do in, say, Discworld. However we haven’t seen Great A’Tuin show up in the HL ‘verse, so perhaps we can call the inconsistencies even.
Patricia Schlorke says
Yay that Ilona and Gordon are getting a vacation! Hopefully they are staying cool in this crazy hot weather we are having in Texas (if they are in Texas right now).
Sorry Mod R (and those BDH in England) that you are facing the hot weather there. Fans, air conditioning (if you have it), lots of ice, drink water with electrolytes in them, and anything else to keep you cool. Wash cloths with cold water on them will also help on the face and the back of the neck. If you are near the sea, that might help too. š
Stay cool everyone!
Moderator R says
There’s this big, shiny ball in the sky ????
I don’t know what it is, but it’s scary and I want the rain back!
Patricia Schlorek says
So do we in Texas! š
Cheryl M says
Hooray for vacation time that is actually restful! I enjoy reading all the comments, and second more yarn related posts and the idea of an Augustine POV. Have a grand weekend, Mod R, now to try and get something done in the pre-monsoon humidity that has descended upon Tucson.
Kat says
Hello my fellow southern Arizonan! ????. Patiently (but not really) waiting for those rains to come down
Patricia Schlorke says
When you get them can you send them to Texas? ????
Kelly C. says
Yay! I’m glad they’re getting some R&R.
I’m currently enjoying the Graphic Audio version of Clean Sweep. It’s brilliant!
Debra Hoffmaster says
Does Wilmos have children?
Moderator R says
I don’t think we know that yet. The BDH speculates however š
Debra Hoffmaster says
Blasted autocorrect. Does
W I l m o s have children?
Moderator R says
I got you š , fixed it.
Ramona says
Greetings – you may have answered this in the past but…… Is Julie’s horse a descendant of Hugh’s Bucky? I would love to hear that story š
mz says
I am firmly of the belief that she is.
Moderator R says
We’ll have to read and see š
jewelwing says
Pretty sure this is true, and I expect we may get at least some clues at some point.
Moderator R says
Certain readers are convinced the stable girl from Iron and Magic is actually Julie in disguise at Hugh’s new castle, before the events in Magic Triumphs! They may or may not be right and then we’ll have a direct link for her and Bucky…
Rt Boyce says
Ooh, yes, I want the Tulip backstory too!
And +1 on Bucky being involved in her genetics somewhere…
Laura R. says
Dina has always made a point of having every guest confront a picture of missing parents. Given the new hallway, did she do this for these latest guests? On one hand I know finding her parents signal the end of the series, but on the other, Dina needs a hug from her Mum and Dad!
Moderator R says
From Ilona “No worries about the portrait. We are getting closer to solving the mystery. Wait and you will see.” https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/sweep-of-the-heart-questions/
*dramatic didgeridoo*
Gretchen says
Mod R, now we know you’re Australian! Finally!!!
Moderator R says
???? I am so sorry to keep the mystery going, but I am not Australian either.
*dramatic theremin*
Dandufrenger says
Oh, so āMidsomer Murdersā fan?
Moderator R says
No, TNG fan š
Dandufrenger says
Or, since we seem to be associating instrument origin with nationality, and the theremin was invented by a Russian, then youāre Š ŃŃŃŠŗŠ°Ń?
Moderator R says
Not Russian either, but that’s closer than Australian at least heh!
I’ll let you all know next week, how’s that š ?
kitkat9000 says
Just throwing this out there as I’m unable to recall seeing anyone else post it:
Is it possible that Dina’s parents & their inn vanished because of a corrupted ad-hal showing up?
Mariette says
So happy for them that theyāre taking a vacay!
SoCoMom says
Thanks for the update – yay on recharging while on vacation!
Aydee says
Have a wonderful time away. Safe travels. ????
Simone says
Wishing HA a very relaxing, wonderful, joyful and harmonious vacation!
CHRIS says
Happy weekendā£ļø
Barbara Erwin says
I am fine with no installment. I hope the authors are having a good vacation. Everyone needs a break!
Valerie in CA says
To Everyone: if you were adopting a rescued kitten, female, mischievous calico, what would you name her based on House Andrews and the books they write?
Two names NOT to submit:
Dina
Camille
As both are taken????
Disclaimer: all cool names will be considered, regardless. Especially if they start with the letters āgā and ājā
Thanks. Struggling to name!
Moderator R says
I submit for your consideration Desandra! (Plum for short :D)
Valerie in CA says
Plum is good! The person who rescued her is a horticulturist
Moderator R says
Desandra’s naughty lines are always a welcome shock to the system :D:
“āNo, really!ā Desandra nodded. āOkay, so most guys donāt have a nice ball sack, right? It looks all hairy and wrinkled like some small animal died between their legs, but Gerardoās is like two plums in a velvet bagĀ .Ā .Ā .ā
Derek, whoād been lingering in the doorway, took a careful step to the left behind the wall and disappeared from my view.
Kill me, somebody.”
Andrews, Ilona. Magic Rises, Kate Daniels 6. Ace Books, 2013. Kindle edition, chapter 12.
May the kitten have a long and purring life, no matter what name it ends up with š
mz says
I will always have a soft spot for Attura. If you put a G in front, she becomes Gattura and āgattaāis Italian for female cat.
Sam says
Cookie!
Julie
Matilada
Orro (Orra?)
Ripper of Souls (Soul Ripper?)
Caldenia
Frida
Runa
Pancakes
Rose
Beatrice
Elara
Karakun
Michella
Cerise
Sophie
Arabella
š
Valerie in CA says
Liking Elara and Caldenia.
And Cookie.
????
Jean says
Jenny (Jenny Anydots, from “Cats”)
Gin/Ginni/Geneva/Genevieve
Gwen/Gwyn/Guinevere
Jenn says
I think a kitten named Karat would be fun š then youād also have her formal name in the background as cats like to have lol
Moderator R says
Especially Commander of Krahr ????
djr says
Glad to know our favorite authors are enjoying the much needed break!
Amber says
Does Dina miss Mauds wedding?
Moderator R says
For the sharped-eyed amongst you, Maud keeps getting referred to as “engaged” to Arland (for example in Chapter 11 here https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/chapter-9-part-1-2/:My sister was engaged to Arland, the Marshall of House Krahr).
There was no wedding yet for Dina to miss š . A wedding date was *planned* by Ilemina a month from the events in Sweep of the Blade, but much has happened since! *teasing chuckle*
lia says
No no, she can’t have missed Maud’s wedding – this is where the Inn is building the tunnel/door to! #speculation
sarafina says
I hope they are having Orro make the cake!!
Layla says
I hope they are enjoying their well deserved time off.
jewelwing says
+1
I wanted to take a nap, which is an opportunity happens maybe twice a year, but decided to check here first. Now I may take advantage of the napping option. Let’s hear it for relaxation!
Nat says
Thank you, Mod R for your Great wohl in answering all those questions!! ????
Youāre a real gem!
Iām just a little curious how and why the storyline the current Dina dimension isnāt more about finding her parents.
I meanā¦ in the precious book there was this *huuuge* cliffhanger with the tag on the cat (I forgot the name *sorry*)ā¦ And now the cat doesnāt even seem to live in the inn anymore?
I mean, I love the storyline, but I thought that she finally got a lead, but there is no mentioning at all about that – or did I miss something?
Thank you very much for your hard work!! ????
Al the love from Germany!
Moderator R says
Hey Nat š
First thing first, Olasard still lives and thrives at the inn ( he’s mentioned in several chapters of Sweep of the Heart, like Chapter 15 https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/chapter-15/ for example)
Secondly, this clue everyone remembers with the cat’s tag…it was just Dina’s off-handed guess! The name Sebastien North in NOT on the tag, only the initials S.N.- which could correlate with the hint the Archivarius gave, or could be about so many other things. It’s not that much of a clue š !
But, according to Ilona, we are getting closer to the parents mystery: “We are getting closer to solving the mystery. Wait and you will see.ā https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/sweep-of-the-heart-questions/
Nat says
Thank you so much for the clarification!!!!
I suppose I have to re-read everything now, seeing that I missed some things ????
I would love for Dina to finally reunite with her parents ????
Matilda says
I have a random question that Iāve been wondering about ever since I reread Fated Blades recently: why is Kinsmen a proper noun but seco is not? I love how much thought House Andrews puts into world building, and Iām sure this was intentional. However I just love hearing about their reasoning.
Moderator R says
So “kinsmen” isn’t capitalised in Fated Blades (or any other of the books in the series), so I’m not sure what you’re referring to regarding it being a proper noun…It is the generic descriptor for the collective of people whose enhancements were biological and now get genetically transmitted from one generation to the next. “Seco” is also a common noun, it denotes a type of weaponised force field.
There is only 1 instance out of 42 mentions of the word in which “kinsman” is used as a form of address, for a specific person, functioning as an honorific “As you said, Kinsman Baena, we are temporary allies”. This is a clue for the extremely formal tone of the context (aka: Ramona is not having it).
Hope I understood the question correctly š
Matilda says
Thank you! I donāt know why I thought kinsmen was capitalized.
Kristal says
Every installment is a gift! Kudos to House Andrews on enjoying the change of scenery!
Lin Sims says
I’m glad they’re experiencing a mental reset and easing of stress, particularly after the last year.
Wendy says
Vacation āļøyay!!!
MissAmy17 says
I have always been curious about this; can Rogan and Nevada speak telepathically? I mean he can pick up her thoughts and project to her. So could Nevada concentrate on a question and then Rogan could project a chalkboard in her mind with the answer written on it?
Moderator R says
I will add it to the House Andrews question list!
From the text clues, we can see that he is a weak telepath (he needs the whammy of an Aucubens Examplar amplification circle and weeks of prep), as his telepathic gift is a side effect of his tactile talent (he can make one feel touched).
“This particular circle took two weeks of work. Iād prepared it for a previous problem I had to deal with, but it resolved itself, so I planned to use it for Adam Pierce. Since Adam wasnāt around, his groupie was the next best thing.” from Rogan’s POV of Burn for Me, Part 2 https://ilona-andrews.com/2017/rogan-burn-for-me-pov-part-2/
and
“Iām a weak telepath. My telepathy is the by-product of my being a tactile, and besides, Acubens Exemplar took weeks to set up. It was left over from another venture I was involved in. Using it completely drained me.” from Chapter 14 of Burn for Me.
Compare that to his usual power demonstrations: this requires so much more effort from him for such little payback!
He mostly projects/picks up things from her in an uncontrolled way, when he’s stressed:
āI project when Iām under stress. The moment I pass out, my mind will react and try to purge all this shit from my head so I can rest. Iāll project while unconscious and youāre exhausted. You have no defenses. If youāre still here, you wonāt be yourself. Youāll be me. You wonāt know where you are or what youāre doing. I need you to go now, Nevada.ā in Chapter 13 of White Hot.
We see this when he shares his nightmares with Nevada (the first time he exhaustedly fell asleep in the Baylors’ kitchen and the second time when he’s unconscious in the cistern after he battles Howling- both in White Hot).
I have to say these don’t *sound* particularly fun, but it is a special relationship between them. He also picks up random mental feedback from her, like seeing dragons when she’s around because that’s Neva’s image of him in her mind.
“I donāt know why or how, but you attuned yourself to me. Youāre sensitive to my projections. You pick them up even when I donāt concentrate on sending them to you.ā (White Hot, Chapter 13)
So it would be interesting to know if that’s something they can work on and advance or if the parameters so far are the limitations š
I love that I get to geek out with you all š
Daphne says
So happy House Andrews is getting a good break that gives them space to be creative. I did a reread of Sweep of the Heart and was reflecting on how good their writing is. The plots! The character development! The humor! The intrigue! I can only imagine how much energy and commitment this takes. Hope they really sink into vacation mode.
Shawna Koshinsky says
Happy Vacation! Give those brain cells a reset & have a good time!
Wendy S says
I e wondered why Nevadaās dad couldnāt have been healed by a magic user. It seems there are no magic healers but I donāt understand why not. Or maybe there are so few they couldnāt afford one?
Molly-in-Md says
Maybe medical healing is not an expressed magic type? Rogan’s medical staff — Dr. Arras, etc, — are all non-mages. So if the multi-billionaire, control-freak Rogan doesn’t have a med-mage on staff, then I’m guessing they don’t exist.
Larry says
May House Andrews enjoy their vacation, and may Mod R get to enjoy one later :-).
Jenn says
Mod R, thank you for your presence here and fun, helpful, intriguing comments. Itās much appreciated to have this space to land! Happy vacation to IA!
Bri says
I hope theyāre having a great time! No worries about innkeeper. They totally deserve a break.
Cindy says
I’m just throwing this out there what are the chances the werewolf female and the sovereign
Moderator R says
This had more support earlier on, before she acted a bit of a fool, but you are still not alone now!
Keith says
They truly deserve a vacation after entertaining all of us crazy fans. Lots of rest and relaxation is always needed. ????
Bill says
Hope you all have a relaxing vacation.
HDP says
I hope they managed to go on vacation somewhere away from the unbearable heat in central Texas.
Cinders says
No worries! Lots of love and rest!!
Michelle Fowler says
Questions:
1. For animal mages like Cornelious, will the animals to which they are strongly bonded live a longer life? Will they live as long as the person to whom they are bonded?
2. Foe the mages who can pull creatures from the arcane realm, do all the mages pull from the same realm or are the realms unique to each mage? Do the mages grab just whatever they can from the realm or do they picture what they need?
Catlover says
I’m having a great day today! I moved the first of May and I finally found my silverware this morning! So happy, no more trying to cook with plastic utensils then washing them up by hand. I was still enroute with the cats when the truck got unloaded. I’m celebrating this weekend by rereading all the chapters and possibly actually remembering the story line.
Happy vacation to the Andrews family may they rest and do exactly what they want for the rest of their time off and return refreshed.
Mod R the “shipping” post made me laugh which was greatly appreciated at this point. I usually giggle my way through those posts. I’m always amazed at some of the obscure details fans actually remember and obsess over; although, I do like the mom and Benhiro possibility. Happy weekend everyone!
CharisN says
“…made progress on several projects”. Sounds WONDERFUL!
wingednike says
I do have a question/s now.
Is there any significance to Mr. Rodriguez not receiving Dina’s letter for assistance when her parents disappeared?
Is the judgement robe (I think Dina said all innkeepers have one) the same as an Ad Hal’s robe?
Verslint says
Hope you have a lovely time House Andrews! Thanks for the update to ModR!
Lynn Thompson says
Thank you, mod R, for the post.
I am glad House Andrews is getting a well deserved vacation.
In my world, my 79 senile demented mother fell in my sisters shower Monday. Not her remodeled just for her shower with all the handicapped rails etc. sigh so itās been a week of comfort reading of The Edge series for me while medical people argue with insurance people about short term stay in a skilled caregiver facility.
TRO says
What a rough time, hope it is all sorted quickly for her (and you!)
jewelwing says
No rest for the weary Lynn. Take care of yourself.
Vala says
Question for the fabulous Mod R! So happy to have you on board!
Please pardon this question if already asked, but I have this memory of an epilog at the end of the first Innkeeper, where the inn gets a recommendation from house Khrar and gets raised a pointin its standings. The new audio version ends with Sean leaving, and when I went back to check my Clean Sweep copy, it ended there too – am I crazy, or has something changed?
Thanks for the great job you are doing
Moderator R says
Hi Vala,
You are remembering correctly, there is an epilogue to Clean Sweep š
Graphic Audio will be recording it and it will be added to their version. We will announce it as soon as it is available and you will also probably get an email from them as soon as it is available.
The epilogue should also be on your ebook copy now, as the issue with it missing was solved last year. I will email you separately to make sure you see this, but for everyone else who may have issues, please make sure you sync/update your content to the most recent version of the book ????.
Apologies for any inconvenience and if it still doesnāt appear, please email me at modr@ilona-andrews.con and let me know ????
Vala says
Thank you Mod R, your the best! I thought I was going nuts
njb says
Enjoy the time off(?). Hope things are going equally well on the home front!
Lillian Perry says
Just love your books can hardly wait for the next.
A T S Withers says
Hope they are having a good break! I want one too haha Weird question: I wonder what is happening to the lawn mower kids? Is Kid 2 still dealing with them? Their story made me laugh.
W.L. price says
Loving the innkeeper books and I am so glad I finally discovered this blog. I am wondering about Sebastian North/cat collar clue dropped a few books back. Is Mr. Chekhov spinning in his grave?
Moderator R says
The cat collar did not say Sebastien North, it only had the initials SN ????. The letters could stand for a lot of things.
We are getting closer to the solving the parentsā mystery https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/sweep-of-the-heart-questions/
Susan D says
Caldenia and Kosandion belong to an extended family that has been selecting the genes of their children for what sounds like a very long time. In Earth years, what is their expected life span? I would think longevity is one of the first things such a family would select for.
Sogala says
I did a bit of vacation myself and missed the friday…at least I thought I missed it. Happy to read HA are taking some downtime to recharge.
And now I have a question: Is there any chance Dina’s stories will be read by Renee Raudman again? Natalie Naudus does a great job and I feel she is fitting for Maud, but (at least to me) something of the “comfort-feeling” I had with the first 3 Audiobooks from Dina is missing (can’t really explain, it’s just a feeling).
Wish all of you who are reading this post a good start for the new week š
Moderator R says
Hi Sogala,
I hope you recharged on vacation!
Renee Raudman will not be returning to narrate further books, but arrangements are being made for a new narrator for Dina, which I hope you will enjoy ????
Sogala says
Thank you for the fast reply. I will wait and see (or in this case listen) what the future brings.
As for the recharge…I have to sneak some in again because we had a town festival on Saturday š
Catbyrd says
I am a long time fan, starting with Magic Bitās when first published. I bought it at a Barnes & Noble on a whim as it was categorized as science fiction and I almost never read sci-fi. I have bought every book published in all series. I like the stories, but itās the romance that fuels my devotion. Weāre in Chapter 17 and I have to ask where is the romance? This feels like Dina and Sean in middle age. The story is good, but I miss the moments that smolder.
Jull says
Question: did we ever find out why Roland was taking Saiman’s blood? I am re-reading Magic Binds and couldn’t remember if this was answered…
niv says
If the Inn can create a kitchen, pantry, bedrooms, auditoriums, dining halls, stadiums, and various other magic, why can it not create a medbay and kit?
Moderator R says
For the same reason why weapons, and precise gastronomical utensils (like Orro’s coagulator) have to be brought in. There is a difference between synthesising walls and furniture and creating high technology.
The Inn also needs the materials it uses for the regular rooms too, although it can synthesise those in a pinch:
“Garbage in, garbage out. The inn occasionally requires raw materials like wood, for example, or fabrics. Usually this happens when the innkeeper wants to conserve the innās resources or during the times when time is of the essence. Itās faster to feed a load of marble to the inn then for the inn to synthesize it out of something else. The items that an inn could find at a landfill are likely to be tainted by chemicals. The wood would rot quickly. āCleaningā and absorbing the core materials from a landfill would take a lot of energy and defeat the purpose of trying to save resources in the first place. Now, if an inn somehow got access to a construction site, it would have a field day gobbling stuff up.” from https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/paint-names-and-fussy-chancellors/
The Innkeepers are pack rats. Because of the Inns’ opening to the Universe, they have had access to technology for a long time. A lot of the things we see in the series aren’t made by Gertrude Hunt on the spot, but things Dina had squirreled away š
Heather says
Just finished a reread of Maudās book and it reminded me of a question. Otubar is Arlandās step-father correct? What happened to his father? Do we know? Or is Otubar his father and they only refer to him as consort and Ileminaās husband in deference to her position?
Moderator R says
Arlandās father died. Otubar is Ileminaās second husband.
Heather says
Iām curious as to how HA felt about publishing on Kindle Unlimited after they used it for Fated Blades. Did it bring in new readers who werenāt familiar with them? Did it cut into sales? What was the reader response?
Lucy says
Congratulations to House Andrews on collecting Mod R. Youāre a delight.