Waterfall Wednesday: Chapters 1-6

It's the first week of the Waterfall Read-Along, this week hosted by Tina from Tina's Book Reviews, talking about Chapters 1-6!


1. Waterfall opens with the introduction of Gabi, she's depressed, a little angry and is dealing with feelings of loneliness. Are you connecting with her this soon in the novel? Do you see things you like or dislike?

I was a bit annoyed that she was complaining about getting to spend the summer in the Italian countryside on an archaeological dig because that sounds way awesome to me. What teenager gets to do that? Perhaps I was just never a typical teenager though, like Gabi, who would prefer to spend all summer doing typical teenage things. Though while I wouldn't say I really connected with her right away, I wouldn't say I disliked her either.

2. Gabi gets to time travel back to 14th Century Italy- The Dark Ages in its prime. Is there anytime in history that fascinates you and would you travel back if you could?

I feel like this is the cliched answer that everyone chooses, but I would have to go with the Victorian Era. It may be because I am heavily influenced by some great historical fiction novels I've read recently, The Monstrumologist Series and Clockwork Angel, which are set in Victorian times. I am probably most interested in the intense sexual repression of the time and the ramifications of that (I loved The Importance of Being Earnest).

3. Most of the men, including Marcello have a very set opinion about a woman's place. Gabi gets manhandled a bit in these first few chapters, and even gets asked if shes a witch. The men are shocked when Gabi rides a horse like a man and shimmies down the castle walls. What do you think of men's mentality back then? Gentlemanly, chauvinistic, simple-minded?

I would have actually expected the men of this time to be even more disrespectful. Granted, I am really no expert in this time period, but I was surprised that Gabi gets away with being so outspoken and strong-willed and the men just go along with it, albeit grudgingly. Then again, she is claiming to be a Lady so mayhap that is the difference and they wouldn't be as kind to a simple peasantwoman. I think the men's mentality back then was just a product of the day and age.

4. When Gabi becomes a part of this era, the people are immediately intrigued but suspicious of her. Many judge her by her difference. Do you think this is fair? Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like an outsider or that others were misjudging you?

Well, no. But that's maybe easy for me to say because, as a reader, I have an insight into her background and where she is coming from. But for the people from the era that are set in their ways and don't know time travel exists, she must come across as exceedingly strange. Not that that makes it fair for them to judge her, but I think they're too ignorant to know any better. Have I ever felt like an outsider? Yes, all the time.

5. What do think the coolest thing would be about living in the Dark Ages? What would be the worst?

Coolest: Dinnertime! Is it just me, or would it be fun to eat all your food without utensils (except knives)? Does this out me as a slob? I swear I would do my best to be neat even without utensils. I hate wine though so that would be a problem if that was the only beverage available.
Worst: Sidesaddles come to mind. I am a somewhat experienced horseback rider but even I cringed when they made Gabi use a sidesaddle. I would not feel safe on one of those going fast either!