I'm re-reading LDID at the moment and this stood out to me.  Sookie is explaining what she is to Bethany - the girls she questions at Stan Davis' house.  Sookie states she's not a psychic, but then internally questions it.  She says she thinks she might have a streak of being psychic along with her other "gift".  She then goes on to explain that some psychics can communicate with the dead.

Wondering if she will communicate with someone who is now dead, but not only through traditional "letters".

We'll probably find out more about how Dillon died?

IMO we are either going to see Sookie find some old letters that tell her more about her past - maybe even give us some insight as to where the telepathy comes from - OR there will be letters written by a vampire (since most titles reference vampires as the "dead").

What about if she finds items from her grandma and what not in her attic and learns about herself

Yeah, I would like to know a lot more about her grandma, what she knew about the supernatural world. I mean it's really not natural (and bear with me I'm taking my own as an example, as odd as they are) that a grandmother would be ok with her granddaughter dating a vamp. I want to know if she knew something about the telephaty, because it certanly comes from her side of the family.

Do you think that maybe Gran or someone in her family could have had a BB with a Vamp and the letters are from said vamp? That way they could detail how to break it since CH sadi it would be broken.

I am so sad at the idea of it being broken.  Did she say it WILL be broken or COULD be broken????

Will and she knows how to do it she is just trying to work it in somehow.

I read that CH really regretted the BB and she wishes she had never thought about it.  So I am led to believe that it does not have too much to do with the story as a whole.  I believe that S&E would have had the connection no matter what, because of their feelings toward one another.  Therefore, I am not too upset by the thought of the BB being broken.  Maybe it will clear up Sookies feelings once and for all, and she will realize that she is in love with Eric!

Well Ronni, I really REALLY hope that you are right....I love the BB and it makes me sad to think its gonna be gone

I was initially sad about it until I read that she herself hated it, so I had to think that hopefully, we were putting more faith into it than CH herself had.  I think the bond they have (the love) is stronger than the BB.  And who is to day that one day after it is broken, when they realize their feelings supersede the bond, maybe they will reestablish the BB because they want to be connected that way again.  Or maybe I am just a hopeless romantic!

I think the BB gives Sookie the same kind of understand of Eric that she has for the two-natured. She may not be able to read his mind but she understands his moods better. It also gives Eric an understanding of Sookie's mood. That kind of union enables them to be closer to each other.

EXACTLY!!!!  Gosh I dont want to see it go!!!!

AP, I agree.  I also think Sookie is at a disadvantage with Supes.  She is so used to knowing exactly what everyone around her is thinking, that is part of the reason I don't understand why she hates the bond so much..  She loses her telepathy when she is around them.  Oddly enough, it makes her more human.  Regular people, and supes as well don't have an inkling of what others are thinking, and just have to trust their instincts.  She needs to be "blind" to his feelings to just jump in and trust that he loves her!  That is why I would love for them to reestablish their bond (after it is broken).  Because like everyone else, I love that they can sense each others feelings.  I also think it could help to keep Sookie safe.  It helped when Eric was in danger!

I think that when Sookie finally settles down to her HEA with Eric that they would reestablish the bond. It would almost be impossible for them not to.

Wouldn't that be great!

I dearly hope they are letters between Eric and Sookie. They have to part before they are reunited ( 3 more books, after all), and maybe while the BB is weakening their connection gets deeper through letters...

So many possibilities! Grandma's letters ( or letters TO Grandma), some mystery murder involving some mysterious letters of alphabet ... Now, when does that book come out, LOL! I want them all now:)

I'm a hopeless romantic. I'm hoping maybe those are letters that Eric wrote pre-DAG to Sookie because he couldn't bring himself to tell her. Maybe he wrote them after ATD when he was healing from the sun burns and realized that Sookie feels something too. LOL! I know. I can dream right?

Maybe I am not remembering correctly, but what is with the parting and reuniting thing?  Is this something CH has said?

I dearly hope they are letters between Eric and Sookie. 

I thought of this too.  Maybe Appius has Eric go somewhere with him and he keeps in contact through letters.

Maybe I am not remembering correctly, but what is with the parting and reuniting thing?  Is this something CH has said?

We're all just assuming that they will part (break up) before the last book and then get back together. CH hasn't said anything like that. But it is likely that there will be a period of separation between them, because there are still 3 more books to go. Sadly, I doubt CH would be that generous and give us 4 whole books of E and S.   

I think they will be forced to part at the end of DITF, and I do think there will be letters between Eric and Sookie during this separation. I think Sookie will want time off from Eric because of some complicated vampire political problem. That would tie in to CH's recent cryptic statement that Sookie will have to decide if the benefits of being with Eric outweigh the problems (sorry for the paraphrase).

You know, that makes a lot of sense when you look at the cover, too.  That they are separated, but reaching for each other.  Could indicate a separation at the end of the book that is required of them.  There's still the love -rose- between them, and it looks like they're being pulled apart.  If Appius is King of a country other than Louisiana, he could want Eric to come support him.  That would make sense as he would be a strong ally to have.

EricLover, I agree, I love the BB too...

God, so Dead Letters is gonna be a really sad book... emotional angst is the worst!

When I speculate on why they might have to separate ( and I reject an option of Eric being a jerk because I don't like that option at all)- well, for one, Eric might be punished and exiled ( or he has to flee) because he does something unforgivable in vampire law. Like offing his Maker, for example, to protect Sookie.

Another thing I like to ponder- remember in one of the books there is a talk of reforming the vampire hierarchy to fit it better to modern times? Corporation rather than kingdoms? I wonder if that takes place eventually and Eric is involved. Sookie could be married to a CEO  instead   of a King, LOL.

I wonder if CH would pull an Edward from Twilight and leave Sookie for her own good and realize his mistake leaving her. Of course, this being Eric, he wouldn't leave her alone w/out protection. I would hate it if that happens! I don't really see it it happening though.
Sookie may leave Eric when she gets scared about the Vamps finding out about Hunter and she doesn't want Eric to find out because she still can't trust him completely.

The connotations to me are with the term 'Dead Letter Office', which is where things which cannot be delivered (no such house number in that road, no such road in that town, address completely illegible) go.

That's funny. I always wondered where unix dead.letter and mailer-daemon return to sender came from? Should have figured it came from the US postal service.  I do IT stuff and unix has a lot of wierd names. If you try to send email to an invalid address it becomes a dead.letter. You bring up a valid point. Sorry for the tech speak. I do it for 12 hours a day. Hard to quit after hours.

The connotations to me are with the term 'Dead Letter Office', which is where things which cannot be delivered
interesting thought... maybe the FBI might convince Sookie to work for them and take off for a little bit without telling Eric. But then it would call for a whole new cast of characters. Doubt it. Maybe Eric just comes up missing. Sookie would have to go find him. Maybe.

CH would pull an Edward from Twilight and leave Sookie for her own good and realize his mistake leaving her.    
I sort of thought he already did that by not talking to her since October after FDTW, but who knows if that is what his intentions were.

Maybe Eric just comes up missing. Sookie would have to go find him. Maybe.

That was already done, too, with Bill in CD.

i also heard CH say in one of the same interviews, that there is no guarantee that the series will end with book 13. I guess if she is offered another contract, she'll take it. The interviewer sounded disappointed to hear there may not be a wrap-up in the forseeable future.

She said she would make up her mind while writing Dead Letters. She's mentioned ending a series rather than getting stale. I thought DAG was an example of getting stale, but she could be feeling invigorated now since people seem to like DITF. The books are making her oodles of money because of True Blood, and that might influence her decision. But, I would hope if she continued the series, that she would end the suitor question by Book 13 anyway. Dragging it out any further, would just mean she had to fill the book with tedious romantic contrivances, rather than focus on good story value.

But, I would hope if she continued the series, that she would end the suitor question by Book 13 anyway. Dragging it out any further, would just mean she had to fill the book with tedious romantic contrivances, rather than focus on good story value.

That would be enough to make me stop reading because, at that point, it's just ridiculous. No one - including Sookie - is that confused. It would be hard for me to see the story as realistic if Sookie is still debating suitors in Book 20.

AMEN!

Oh god! I can't even imagine 20 books of Sookie! I love this series but I really hope she doesn't sign on for more books. You come to a point where there just isn't any fresh material left. And then you're pulling stuff out of your butt.

And If in every book Sookie has to beaten up or somebody she cares about has to die what kind of person would be left after 20 books she is hanging on by a thread now. I dont want to read about someone who's life a never ending ball of hurt, ( not that its not now) with no expectation of an end in sight.

It would be interesting though if she gets her HEA relationship and the remaining books are about their adventures together.  I'd be fine with 5 books of Sookie/Eric partnership and mysteries.  

OH! That scenario never even accured to me! Yeah I would be on board with that! Theink of the possibilities.

I meant to say think

That would be wonderful and I would enjoy reading a few books of E and S being a couple. But CH has said many times that her plan is to end the series with Sookie making her final choice for her HEA.

On the flipside CH has also said she is considering having Sookie choose earlier than she planned, but I find that unlikely and I am not going to get my hopes up too high. (My hopes are up but I must not let them get higher!! )

eric and sookie as a detective team would be great; i loved them together in club dead. eric in disguise --with his hair intricately braided!

Phoenix2, I saw a post on her website where she answered a post saying something like its an interesting idea to consider continuing the series after the HEA choice...made me hopeful.

I don't think I saw that one. Thanks for sharing!  If I'm remembering correctly, I read what I was talking about above on her blog. She said she had read a lot of stories lately (not 100% sure she said lately) that had a the main couple get married and continue to have adventures together. And she was considering doing that with Sookie. Something about letting us have the HEA early. Not her exact wording but something close.

CH's Lily Bard Leeds and her Jack are a case in point, they even turned up in SVM working together.

It's no use just saying I'd love to see ES work together because they already do, but I'd love them to acknowledge the HEA and continue.

Oh god! I can't even imagine 20 books of Sookie! I love this series but I really hope she doesn't sign on for more books. You come to a point where there just isn't any fresh material left. And then you're pulling stuff out of your butt.

I have heard (read) that she would consider other Sookieverse stories. Maybe if she continues the series, that will be the way that she chooses to do it.

It would also be a good way to have other stories lines that could play into the Sookie-centric stories if she wanted to pick the series back up later.

Do you mean she would write a from a different character's point of view? I have heard that also. Its just if it was consistently from Sookie's POV for many many more books, I don't think I could handle it. Unless the suitor debate comes to a close.

I've read a few reviews that state that Manfred (from CH's Harper Connely series) is going to appear in DITF.. so maybe something with him will spark something in the Dead Letters book.. he's a psychic.. and Sookie did mention that she thought she might be kind of psychic. Just got me thinking..

So, do you think Manfred is the psychic Eric talked about in DUD?

That would be so cool! But didn't Eric kill the psychic?

Manfred was the only character I liked form the Harper series. He stole the show.

He didn't say he killed the psychic.  Eric says he had a psychic once and it was incredible.  Sookie asks if they thought so and Eric responds for awhile.

I assumed he killed the psychic but it wasn't explicit.

BTW - that was paraphrased from memory which is why I didn't use quotes.  :-)

Sure, yeah but it was heavily implied. He could've just been messing with her though. If it was a woman - he could have just tossed her when he was done with her but the whole "had a psychic once" ....  All things possible. He is cheeky that one.

Maybe it was Manfred's mom....

I liked Manfred a lot... he was a really cool character and has a weird appeal to women with.. talents.. Harper was definitely drawn to him. Could make for an interesting character in these books. He would for sure fit in. And I just thought about Eric & Manfred's mom. EEK. LOL.

I know that this a stupid question, but is the next book really called "Dead Letters?"

It is the working title

soooooo.....reading some review by people who read book 10 seems that Pam could have a cliffhanger at the end...

So my question si: Could Pam be the reason for the break up of the bod?

I explain:

First theory: Pam is very important for Sookie and Eric..if something happen to her they both will be very hurt and probably they'd want revenge...so, if Victor use Pam for breaking the bond as an exchange?Victor thinks that Eric obliged Sookie to be bonded and pledged with him.....

Second theory: if Pam disappear could Eric still sense her with the bond with Sookie?or maybe the bond is a problem and they decide to break up....

Third theory: Victor could know Amelia or Octavia...could know a way to break the bond becouse of them...and he could use it!!!

i know i'm crazy...but seriously i've to spend some free time while i wait for book 10^^

Pam will be fine because Sookie and Pam have a story together coming out this year. This ties in to the fact that Sam and Quinn will be in a story with Sookie. In both cases, it is a chance for CH to feature popular characters who don't get much book time otherwise. That's also why I'm not all that worried about Sam and Sookie. If he was important he'd get more book time, but he seldom does. Only FDTW (and I guess DUD) gave him anything interesting to do.

However, I do think that Eric will be hunting for Victor's scalp in Book 11. I don't know if it would mean he also takes on FDC, but if FDC still keeps trying to get his hands on Sookie, it will mean that. That could lead to Eric becoming king. I love the idea, but I don't always know if CH wants to go there. The bond could be broken by the simple fact that Eric may need to be in New Orleans as king and not with Sookie as much. This idea could be really be a Book 12 speculation.

i soooo want Eric hunting Victor!!!!i don't think he will be King becouse he didn't want to and he doesn't have the right personality to be King, but temporary maybe...i don't think he will love the idea to stay away from people he love and care at most...but maybe while the new King is coming he could take his place...i still think that the bond could be broken in adn unwilling way for them but it's to soon to tell...i guess...

CH said that the word HEA is not always what we could have in our life and Sookie could have her ending not in the way she always think to want, but she won't be unhappy....i'm not worried about Sam, he 's just a good friend....

If Eric is king, Sookie's HEA wouldn't be anything like she had imagined.

looking in that way that sounds good!!!!!! finger crossed 'till book 13 (God is a long long long time) but i'm pretty sure she already choosed her man, but of course CH couldn't tell you (marketing issue)...i'm waiting for my book to be delivered!!!!!i want to read DITF!!!

tamm.... We have asked that the posters here restrict posting anything from Dead in the Family in other threads, and keep all thoughts and postings for DITF in the DITF thread until Friday.... When you get a chance, please read the Announcements for DITF posting etc.... thread and the rules for posting thread.

One of the Mods,

Caroline

So what if Sookie ends up having sex with Sam in the novella, and Eric breaks up with her because of it. I would hope (and expect) they get back together eventually. And maybe some of the dead letters are Sookie trying to get Eric to forgive her.

when is the novella coming out? And wouldn't Eric try to kill Sam for sleeping with his wife?

I think that would go against the character CH has given Sookie.  Sookie has always said (in DAG) she would only be with one guy at a time and that right now Eric was it.

I also really believe that Sam's continuing bad choices in partners is an issue for Sook.

Well there could be alcohol involved.

Unless when the novella starts there is some huge shift in her relationship - I don't think it will happen personally.

Do my re-reads - there are many moments where Sookie delineates in regard to Sam. That he is her boss. A great boss but her boss. And a friend. Sookie imagines herself at Merlotte's she values her job, how he treats her as a boss and his friendship.

She needs a true friendship & she almost if not 100% trusts Sam in that way but honestly the more I COD's & think about it - there is a lot about Sam which doesn't stack.

Unless its an emotional cheating situation where she sees how she could have a "normal human" life with Sam and wants that much more than she wants Eric?

exactly what i'm saying....it's against Sookie....but in this novella i just found on the web that even Quinn is there and he will reveal many things when he coudn't come to Sookie in book 8....

i guess THIS it's the big thing about this novella....and why Quinn is in this novella with sam and Sookie since is Sam's brther marriage?

There is a lot to deal with as far as Shifter & Were politics (which is why Quinn could be in it) & to be honest - I am having a hard time wrapping my head around the Jannalyn being 2nd & Sam knowing & dating her & the plan to get Sookie to take the drug.

I there are lot of loose ends as far as that goes.

there alot of loose ends period. it seems the more we work out the more open ended things she gives us! and she loves it like tha tLOL

I guess this novella will show us much more FDC plans and Victor too and that will be  impact in next books!including something important for Sookie love life in a novelal is defenitly too much and Sookie's love life it's pretty stable righ now....the impacts will be related to Victro and FDC and help Eric/Pam and Sookie to kill him.IMO

I also think that the it doesn't really make sense to make a shift to HEA in a novella.

Kitlina - I'm going to move your post in the DITF thread.

thanks I didn't find it

It's at the top & have a read through here if you haven't already. Thanks very much:

http://www.tangler.com/forum/sookie-stackhouse-series/topic/73572

We know that Eric's house was being watched. When Sookie and Eric left in a hurry back to her house after he was attacked by Alexei, it could be possible that the "watchers" noticed how bloody Eric was and snooped around. Do you think there may have been enough time for them to call reinforcements and break into Eric's home to grab Pam and Jason? Both are weak from the attack. Jason had to give blood to Pam to heal her. If the train of thought is that the title refers to "dead" being "vampires" as NewB suggests, then I think that the "dead letters" are letters written by vampires as blackmail letters.

Do you think there may have been enough time for them to call reinforcements and break into Eric's home to grab Pam and Jason?

They're vampires. They can't enter without an invitation. Unless Jason was stupid enough to let them in, I don't think so.

I thought vampires didn't need invitations into other vampire's homes.

I think they still need an invitation. I could be wrong, but...

I'll research it. Can't remember if and when I've read that.

Pam's mention of Victor trying to kidnap Sookie made me think he'd kidnap Pam if he could get a hold of her. What better time than when she is already weak? Also, the cleaners were on the way. Jason could have mistaken the vampire for a cleaner.

If they didn't need an invitation, I would wonder why Victor hasn't staked Eric in his sleep or just sent vampires to attack him in his house. It would save some trouble.

True. I guess we could go with the fang clean up crew that Sookie called.

This makes me think an invite is required: “Pam is the only other person I’ve invited to my home.” Although, she could probably just enter anyway because she is his child, but it's all I could find.

I guess we could go with the fang clean up crew that Sookie called.

Maybe.

It also would not be surprising that Eric's phones were tapped. Felicia was over and she is assumed to be a spy.

No, it would be surprising at all. His every move is being watched. Felicia dating Bobby is definitely bad news.

okay i know the sookie/pam story is coming late summer. what about the one wth sam/quinn/sookie story?

the novella you guys are talking about...?

The Sam/Sookie/Quinn novella is the one we are talking about. Funny thing is that they've been talking about this book for at least a year and it still isn't out yet.

Here is a my lil Speculation for book 11, if we are assuming that the it is called "Dead Letters" and in book 10 we know for sure that Claude is going to help Sookie out by helping her clean her attic. Well, wasnt Jason just up there? what are the chances that what Sookie/Claude could be looking for are in the pie table of Grans?  Old Love Letters could fit into a drawer!?!? Wonderinf if maybe Jason doesnt find the letters first?

You have to consider the fact that the little tidbits of info CH has thrown her fans' way are most likely out of chronological order because of all the contract deals she has made.  She was going to wrap up the series before the deals were made, and now with the three additional books, has to drag out the story-line. 

As for my opinions about DL... it needs a little set up, so bear with me ~

1.) We all know that Appius' sudden arrival was more than just to get help handling Alexei, there was also "unpleasant business" . 

2.) In order for Victor to be successful in the take over, he has to do it quickly and efficiently because Eric is amassing more power at an alarming rate.  Hence, he sends in the two vamps to take care of Sookie and Pam. 

3.)Of course that fails, so what better way to discredit Eric than by sending him his maker (the pawn) with a  murderous sibling in tow.  Hence, there was no imminent need to retaliate against Sookie and Pam because they are weakening Eric's position for him. 

4.)Finally, we know that as his maker, Eric has to do whatever Appius commands.  We also know that Appius doesn't care about Eric's position in this country and will do and/or allow almost anything to happen as long as it insures the safety of his "dearest".   

Now for the what ifs~

1.) What if Appius's unpleasant business has to do w a previous deal he made w Victor?  As his maker, can he command him to release Sookie as his wife?  Betroth him/her to another? Force Eric to succeed his position/power to himself or another? 

2.)What if those business papers that Bobby and Felicia brought over had something to do w a deal Eric was forced to go into?  Were they signed before the melee at the house?  Or that other papers weren't signed before that? 

3.)What if someone gets there before Eric * arrives while Pam and Jason are still too incapacitated?  Could a cleaning crew easily lift them w/o them noticing?

* btw, this would also explain why Eric had to leave so abruptly at the end - "I have to return to Shreveport to see about Pam" AND "to arrange for the things I must do now that Ocella is dead"

4.)Finally, I know this sounds far-fetched, but what if Appius had Eric sign everything over to him first with the intention of eventually giving everything to Victor as part of a deal for allowing him to continue living under the radar w his psychotic "dearest"?  With all the spies watching Eric's house, I am sure one of them tailed Alexei every time he slipped out of the house to do his deeds in Shreveport (even more ammo).  Do vampires have wills?  Could that or some recently signed contract be the dead letter? 

I am probably getting my panties in a bunch over nothing and even though Eric seemed truly relieved at the end, i still can't shake this feeling that this whole business is going to have repercussions in the next bk.  Plus it would give plausible reasons for hiding Sookie, breaking the bond, for Pam to go on her killing spree, and our (nearly broken) Viking to be even larger and in charge. 

Just a few more thoughts ~

Eric values Sookie more than anything else, and if he was involuntarily losing Sookie in a deal he had no control over, it definitely would explain his feelings of total helplessness and defeat.  Now if Sookie were to find out how precariously close she came to being "overseen" by someone else and/or a long politically charged turf war ensues, it certainly would give her pause to re-evaluate their relationship - does life with him outweigh all the risks and political crap she will have to go through??

I'm sorry this is just way too complicated for me. And I also have a problem with some of the assumptions. For instance we don't know that Appius didn't care about Eric's position. Appius still had affection for Eric and he seemed to be pleased with Eric's success. The misdirection we were initially given when Appius arrived at Sookie's was that Appius was the nasty one and poor Alexei was mistreated. Actually it was Alexei who the problem and Appius was just barely hanging on.

And I think the unpleasant bit of business was simply the strain from trying to cope with Alexei murderous tendencies and the possibility that Appius might need to kill Alexei. Appius' hope was that Eric would be the stabilizing influence needed for Alexei. Appius cared enough for Eric's happiness that he sacrificed himself to save Sookie. That doesn't sound like a vampire who had been sent to mess up Eric's position. All he would have needed to do was let Sookie die and then he could have gone on with his plan.

Also, I don't see how anyone could betroth Sookie to another vampire without her consent, and now that she knows how it's done, she wouldn't consent. And I feel certain that both parties to a pledge would be needed to dissolve it, since both parties were needed to create the pledge.

I feel certain that Pam has already had her killing spree. That reference was made over a year ago on the TB S1 DVD set. Since the commentaries and interviews were probably recorded over a period of time prior to the release of the DVD, it's easy to see how it could have been in reference to FDTW which was the current book during the prep of the material for the DVD. There was no killing spree in DAG and no killing spree in DITF. And at the time DL was simply too far away.

I think Eric went back to Pam because she was near death and simply feeding off of Jason wasn't enough. He would have been able to sense that about his child. Also, it probably would have been problematic for Eric to hang around with all of Sookie's fairy relatives right there since he was already high on fairy blood.

Yes vampires have wills. Hadley had a will. But all Appius needed to do to stay under the radar was move somewhere else. He wasn't part of any political structure and he wasn't mainstreaming. He could have gone anywhere in the world. He didn't need to order Eric to give up everything to him to secure Nevada's protection.

Actually all we need for Eric to be large and in charge is in the upcoming political struggle that is on the horizon. That's why Eric told Sookie about the regional divisions in the country. They will probably come into play since the ruling board of Amun is probably infuriated over the encroachment on their territory. Otherwise, we wouldn't need to know these divisions.

I'm sorry to be so negative, but I tend to feel that speculation needs to have a solid base or it can spin off on a tangent, and that's why I said I questioned some of the assumptions that the speculation was based upon.

No need to apologize Ap, I even admitted some of my assumptions were "far fetched".  I think I jumped to the wrong conclusions after reading pg 243,244.  It's when they were finally alone at Fangtasia -
 
Eric "He's insane....Ocella finally told me that Alexei had had episodes like this before - not as severe.  It has led him to consider, very reluctantly, giving Alexei the final death......two times the boy has gotten out on his own and two deaths happened in my area!  He'll subvert all that I am trying to do here in the US....Not that my maker cares about my position in this country" Eric added a little bitterly.

Sookie "So your maker brought Alexei to you hoping that you'd have some bright ideas about keeping your half-brother alive, teaching him some self-control"

Eric "Yes.  That's one of the reasons he's here"

That, coupled with the fact that Eric said that the only two people he trusts are Sookie and Pam.

I agree with Judy that his line "Not that my maker cares about my position in this country" had more to do with bringing an insane vampire to his territory and jeopardizing his position and the position of the other vampires in the U.S.

Appius wasn't trying to mainstream, but he did care about Eric. And he did realize in the end that killing Alexei was necessary and he did save Sookie's life. He was an honorable and practical man - he knew that killing Alexei may be necessary, he just didn't want to do it if he could find another solution. I don't see him betraying Eric to save Alexei.

That, coupled with the fact that Eric said that the only two people he trusts are Sookie and Pam.

He respected his maker and even loved him, but trust is a whole other issue. It's hard to trust someone who can have complete control over you and has the ability to make you do things you don't want to do.

Also, isn't the whole Franklin Mott process - passing a human to another vampire - an outdated and frowned upon practice? I don't think that could be done legally.

Thanks Judy and Ash for quelling some of my fears! :sighing in relief:

Yep, you're right about the the passing of a human.

Now I need help w this one...since Alexei had had these killing episodes before, and they were getting progressively worse, don't you think that would mean that Appius was no longer living under the radar even before he arrived at Erics?

Also, what do you think "the other reason" Appius was there meant?

Not only to first help in trying to control the boy, and then in the event they couldn't, to help put him down?

Again, my apologies - didn't mean to ruffle anyone's feathers.  I won't post again.

ladsalot - you are welcome to post here if you want to. You didn't ruffle any feathers, I just didn't see some of your speculation as plausible.

2.)What if those business papers that Bobby and Felicia brought over had something to do w a deal Eric was forced to go into?  Were they signed before the melee at the house?  Or that other papers weren't signed before that?  

There was something more to those papers! It was just too weird for Felicia to be at his place and even Sookie questions it. I think you are on to something with Eric's commented at Fangtasia that Appius cared nothing for his position. I'm just not sure Sookie could be handed over (although she can be possibly borrowed by FDC), but I do think it was something to do with Eric and Sookie.

Although the Appius saying she wouldn't keep him long could have to do with Eric making an agreement for himself.  
Appius came from southwest (Dallas maybe) through Oklahoma so I keep thinking he had business from that area.

ladsalot. Please don't worry about any of us not agreeing with you. And please feel free to post again. No feathers were ruffled. Personally, I tend to be conservative about speculation and conspiracy theories. Others here enjoy it quite a bit.

I think the papers that Eric had to sign were just an excuse to get Bobby and Felicia at his home so Alexei could kill them. In other words, it was a plot device.

Thinking about it a bit more - I am not so sure Eric has it exactly right that Appius doesn't care about his position.

I saw his statement as more of a bitter reproach, not a statement of fact. He was pissed that Alexei was wreaking all this havoc in his area and his country, which was basically Appius' fault. It was like saying, "It's not like you give a damn," but knowing the person actually does. However, you are pissed off and need someone to direct it at.

Where did the "passing on of Sookie" come from? Was it a speculation? I may have missed something...

It was speculation. ladsalot was speculating that the papers that Eric signed or was supposed to be signing the night Alexei went batshit crazy involved passing Sookie to another vampire.

ok, thanks!

Too many threads on DITF! No idea where to post.

So, I'm wondering on the whole HEA thing...and, well, I'm ...

On the one hand, does HEA really exist as a possibility for Sookie? Or will she (and whomever she's with) always have to be scrambling to keep one step ahead of someone. Her 'enemies'? 'Frenemies'?

Her being with Eric and the "political" intrigue. Sam, esp, seems to purport this assumption that she's in danger because of the company she keeps (Eric).

Fairy hazards are not directly related to Eric. Had Eric not aided Niall in meeting Sookie in FDTW, Niall would have just approached her on his own or through Claudine (this would have made more logical sense anyway)

Sadly, Eric introduced Sookie to Alcide who continues to annoy me (Does the jackass even remember Jackson? Tool.). I've always found him more irritating than Quinn. Quinn is a dumb ox, but Alcide has ambitions and his own agenda and he does not put Sookie's well-being first (I never got why he brought her to store where they found all the dead bodies; he should have just brought her home -or was it to her car in the parking lot? - first. I mean where's the logic? Alicide moronic thought process: "I just agreed to bring Sookie to her car.  There's no answer at the dress shop. Something BAD must have happened there. Well, I'll bring Sookie with me to what is likely a bloody murder scene. THEN, I'll bring her to her car." Idiot. Eric would always deliver Sookie to safety before investigating. At least, he always tries to get her to stay put and think about her safety. LOL. Reminds me of something from my fanfic. Eric/Sookie = Ricky/Lucy). Alcide never has put Sookie's safety first.   Again, given the fact that Sookie knew Sam and Sam eventually came to be associating more with other supes, I don't think its out of realm of possibility that Sookie would've met Alcide and gotten involved in the pack nonsense without knowing the vamps ahead of time. Just..the way the world was moving...supes were coming out...

Now, given everything we've seen so far, and the level of importance given the fact that Sookie is a telepath (Sophie-Anne, Andre, etc.). If she hooks up with Sam, is he capable of keeping her safe? Does he not realize this? Would any mild-mannered human be able to keep her safe? Alcide? How many dead girlfriends does this douche have now? Quinn can't keep himself safe. Sam is a nice guy but does he really think he can tell Felipe de Castro, "no, Sookie can't come to Vegas to read minds for you. I need her for the afternoon shift." Puuhhleez.

Even if Eric and Sookie breakup (or whatever it would be- vamp-divorce, de-bonding, whatever) wouldn't Eric STILL have to maintain his protection of her?  Despite the fact that its a struggle, isn't he the only one in our current cast of characters we have even remotely capable of keeping her relatively safe? If Sookie suddenly becomes a soccer mom, are we left to assume the vamps will  suddenly forget how great it would be to have a telepath?

RE: Amelia. I didn't think much of her absence from DITF. I wasn't sure what she'd be doing in there anyway. Besides Charlaine needed her bedroom empty for Claude. But, one of the threads did speculate on her becoming very powerful. Now, maybe Sookie wouldn't need a supe boyfriend to protect her if she had a powerful witch for a best friend. THat would be interesting if Ame came back really powerful.

In the realm of Fanfic, it was really funny that Appius was so not the monster that everyone had made him out to be, while Victor turned out to be every bit the douche everyone made him out to be.

I am happy Jason's character is self-correcting, like Sook's orgasms. She needs him. And that Claude loosened up. I'm still WTF? on Dermot, but hey, as long as she can't do the "I have no family" whine, I'm okay with Dermot. Its bizarre to picture two Ryan Kwatans running around tho. I totally picture him. Not AP for Sook, not even ASkars for Eric (unless its first season Eric), but Ryan seems about right as Jason.

As for Dead Letters, I'm sure Charlaine will break up E/S so she'll have plotlines to get us to #12 and #13.

And she did SO NOT ADDRESS stuff in here. Those teasers were just red herrings. Debbie's body is still a bomb-in-the-garden. Now the dead vamps. No trips to the attic. I don't feel full closure on Dermot-as-threat. That was kind of fucktarded.  Rene/Hunter visit. Don't even remember what the early blurb said about that. This really was a setup book. I mean the last few chapters were a total bloodbath, but unlike the usual mess, Sookie emerged relatively unscathed. There was some levity, something cartoonish, even Batman TV series about it. Jason popping Eric's ribs into place. Pam sarcastically dragging herself across the floor. Even Sookie threatening her annoying maker-in-law that she'd kill him.  It was a fun bloodbath. Which can only mean one thing: Dead Letters will be effing miserable.

God, Mari, I hope not!  (Good to "read" you again, BTW! )

So bear with me, because I'm trying to put together a few CH comments, quotes and ideas in my head.

So as per Melanie's transcript, CH was asked if Eric's character would remain constant or he would have a big surprise reveal a la Bill.  To that she answered that Eric would remain as constant as he could, but has political pressures we are unaware of yet.  As the question referenced Bill, and his motivations and actions towards Sookie, I'm taking her answer to also pertain to Eric's behaviour in regards to Sookie and not just his character in general.

We just got a whole load of new info regarding the Vamp clans and how states are grouped together.  At this point I can't even pretend to have that all down -and my questionable geographical knowledge of which state is next to which doesn't really help! - but I think I understand that the clan that Louisiana is in feels it has been threatened and preyed upon.  It would make sense for that group of states to feel weakened and a need to defend.  We also know from DITF, according to Bruno,  that Eric has been amassing power.

I know there has been speculation that the extra business that Appius came to town for, besides Alexei, might have to do with Victor ie. the political pressure that is on Eric that has so far been off the page.  What I am wondering is if Appius came to Eric bearing a proposal from another regent.  It would make sense for the states within his clan to want to consolidate power. Might they propose helping Eric get rid of Victor and FDC, making way for Eric to take the throne of Louisiana, and then marry that regent to bind the power.  It might even work better if it were a regent from another clan, if they felt FDC's clan were going too far, was a threat to all the other clans, and wanted to unite to stop them.

This would definitely impact on Sookie and Eric's relationship and put a twist on his consistancy in behaviour  towards her.  It would be the practical, political thing to do, but Sookie wouldn't like it.  I don't think Eric would like or not like it; it would be a political expediency, but cause Sookie to really think about the cost of being with him.  I am also thinking about how he told her that he is married to her in the only way that means something to him.  Was he trying to say that another marriage wouldn't really mean much to him?

I'd love to know your thoughts on this.  If you think I'm waaaay off base, let me know!!

I am also thinking about how he told her that he is married to her in the only way that means something to him.  Was he trying to say that another marriage wouldn't really mean much to him?

 Ah! Oh NO!!! That makes a lot of sense. And that type of 'threat' totally plays into Sookie's already well-identified insecurity: the whole "not really married" thing.

Argh!

Yeah, I'm an urban planner and its been on my mind to get better acquainted with US geography (for work) but this last bit in DITF might be the motivation that puts me over the edge, LOL

Oh, Liann, good to read you too! Started new job and have been very busy. Also, totally into writing Fanfic, so that's been keeping me busy, too. Hope all's well here...

I've proposed the alliance/vamp marriage somewhere on one of these threads. No Sookie would NOT like that at all. She will definitely have an issue with Eric having to consummate his vamp/vamp marriage. Politically, I don't see how beneficial it would be for a Sheriff to marry another Sheriff. We don't know if Sheriffs can marry Kings/Queens of other states but from what I gather about their strict social structure, you don't marry outside of your class. Of course, Eric is an exception in every way. He's gaining power and a monarch from another state would be very likely to see him as an asset, but probably not an ally. Other vampires may be too scared to allow him so much power, don't you think?

She will definitely have an issue with Eric having to consummate his vamp/vamp marriage.

I don't know if it's required to have sex. I think the major element is an exchange of blood. The marriage in ATD was built on a blood exchange and a pledge with the knife. I think whether they had sex after that is at their own discretion. The marriages are for politics and don't necessarily follow human protocols, so consummation of the marriage is probably just an exchange of blood.

This whole situation is going to go far beyond Victor. If Eric has any intentions of being King, that means he is going to have to go after FDC as well. That would explain why he is gathering his own forces. It seems like it is something he is doing on the DL, without FDC's knowledge.

Also, we know that Eric was happy with his little piece of LA, but Victor's actions are forcing him to go far beyond what he had intended. I don't know if he would want to be the King of three states and it's hard for me to imagine FDC just handing over LA (unless some sort of deal is made?). So, maybe in exchange for the aid of other kings/queens in helping him overthrow FDC/Victor, he rations off Nevada and Arkansas? I don't know how likely that is, but it's a thought...

Actually during the marriage ceremony in ATD, Eric's words were:
"Each must pay the other a conjugal visit at least once a year"

Ah. Alright.

I hardly want to share Eric with Sookie! Can't imagine how Sookie could share him! LOL

I don't either. I don't like the idea of Sookie sharing him with anybody. It's unconstitutional.

I'm trying to finish out my Hamlet theory.
So Victor is trying to discredit Eric.
Since Eric knows this, he's going to let Victor think Eric is doing something wrong and catch him on the act.
I referenced "letters to Ophelia* and Hamlet in the novella thread.
What I think Eric could do is somehow plant false ideas of Eric's plans in Victor's head by using notes or letters sent to someone, intentionally allowing the letters to get intercepted.
After all, Polonius intercepted Hamlet's letters to Ophelia and read them out loud to King Claudius.
It could be very easy for Eric to assign the task of sending out these "letters" to someone he suspects as one of Victor's spies.
Victor will probably get FDC to see the letters and then both will come down and try to catch Eric in his treacherous activity, when there isn't any.  The whole thing was a ruse, to get them as far away as possible from the real activity....
Thoughts???

What I think Eric could do is somehow plant false ideas of Eric's plans in Victor's head by using notes or letters sent to someone, intentionally allowing the letters to get intercepted.

Planting false ideas into Victor's head sounds like something Eric would do. We already know Victor is starting to panic a little bit at the rate that Eric is gaining power. I like this...

The whole thing was a ruse, to get them as far away as possible from the real activity...

Maybe I'm slow, but...what would the real activity be? Eric's own takeover?

Hamlet also stages a scene in order to determine Claudius' guilt. Maybe in the act of determining Eric's guilt, the tables are turned to reveal Victor's?

Hamlet also stages a scene in order to determine Claudius' guilt. Maybe in the act of determining Eric's guilt, the tables are turned to reveal Victor's?

Yes I like this. I just don't know the possibilities on how..any ideas? A play would be funny, but it wouldn't fit in with the times. LOL.

The whole thing was a ruse, to get them as far away as possible from the real activity...

Maybe I'm slow, but...what would the real activity be? Eric's own takeover?

I don't know what the real activity would be. We know Eric is doing something...just not sure what all that entails. 

Politically, I don't see how beneficial it would be for a Sheriff to marry another Sheriff.

Sorry, did I forget to include that the regent who proposed to Eric would help him turf FDC and Victor out of Louisiana, clearing the way for Eric to become King of Louisiana.  My idea wasn't that they would then try to take Nevada and Arkansas... unless Arkansas should have been in their clan.  See the geography is an issue with my theorizing!!

Also, Judy I'm sorry if I poached on one of your ideas!  I didn't mean to.  I just read alot of these threads and with those answers from CH etc. it all gels together and comes out as a thought.  Where some of those pieces came from originally is not always totally clear to me.  It just seemed to fit, the idea of a potential marriage between regents (Eric is newly installed King) influencing the consistency of Eric's character towards Sookie.

Liann you did not poach. I just meant that I pondered this but came to the conclusion that Sookie would have a problem with Eric marrying another vamp because of the "sex" thing. Sorry I didn't mean to take credit for any idea and I apologize if it seemed that I took offense. I like reading everyone's theories. It's what keeps me going til the next book. Then the next book feeds the need to come up with more theories. It's a never ending cycle. LOL.

Also, I agree that there's been a flood of posts since the book released and it is hard to keep track of who said what. I don't even remember half of what I even posted! I was a little sleep deprived at the beginning also. LOL.

I just don't know the possibilities on how..any ideas?

FDC can't really make a move against Victor unless he has conclusive evidence that he is involved in treason because it would make his whole empire unstable - his other lieutenants wouldn't be able to trust him. Maybe this is where Rasul will come in? We know he is feeding Eric information about Victor.

A play would be funny, but it wouldn't fit in with the times. LOL.

LOL! I'm thinking about Eric acting out a play at Fangtasia.

My idea wasn't that they would then try to take Nevada and Arkansas... unless Arkansas should have been in their clan.

I'm just having a hard time imagining them taking LA from FDC, but not Nevada or Arkansas. He is the King of all three. In order to obtain LA, wouldn't Eric have to go after the entire empire? Eric's power in LA would be pretty unstable unless he did something concrete about Nevada and Arkansas. I don't know, I'm all confused now...

I think Arkansas is in Amun, the same clan as LA.

Sounds to me like book 11 is where we can finally see justice with Victor, but also a build up of something huge going on politically. Then in book 12 we'll see a major blood bath. Maybe CH will call that book Dead All Around? LOL.

How funny. I just googled "Dead All Around" and it's an SVM fanfic. I should read it. I've been avoiding most fanfics to keep from getting the facts mixed up.

LOL!

It also sounds to me like Eric and Sookie will get their justice against Victor in Book 11. I'm starting to get the feeling that there is going to be a vampire civil war like you suggested, Judy. I can't see any other way around it, especially if Eric is accumulating his own power. He would only be doing that if he was preparing to act with force.

Sam is a nice guy but does he really think he can tell Felipe de Castro, "no, Sookie can't come to Vegas to read minds for you. I need her for the afternoon shift." Puuhhleez.

Ok, I can't stop laughing! 

Hey Judy, I didn't think you had taken offense at all.  I was just being polite like the good little canadian that I am! lol  I love all these theories, too.  Especially, this Hamlet themed one!

I love the idea of the play!  It could be not exactly as a performance per se, but a "let's recreate the scene of the crime" a la Hercule Poireaux.  Acting out what happened so the guilty party - Victor Madden - becomes unnerved and gives themselves away?!!  Probably a vamp wouldn't do that, but it's a mystery staple!!

I was just being polite like the good little canadian that I am! lol

LOL! You know I didn't know that about Canadians until the Olympics this year.  I really liked that bit in the closing ceremony with the "Oh, sorries" I haven't really met too many Canadians here in Texas.

Victor Madden - becomes unnerved and gives themselves away?!!  Probably a vamp wouldn't do that, but it's a mystery staple!!

Maybe not Victor but one of his underlings. They've already given him away during the fae torture. Some of them aren't up for the pressure and Victor's lost 2 of his best to Pam and Sookie.  He is so screwed~!

Victor Madden - becomes unnerved and gives themselves away?!!  Probably a vamp wouldn't do that, but it's a mystery staple!!

I'm thinking about it as more of a mock trial. Evidence is presented and the determination of treachery is based on whether or not Victor can adequately dispute the claims. If there is enough evidence and his underlings aren't as loyal to him, he could end up exposing himself.

I'm not seeing a deal between Eric and FDC to be completely out of the question.

Victor is playing Felipe.  Eric says this in DITF.  The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

If I were FDC, I'd be thinking far better to give Louisiana to Eric - and retain NV and Arkansas - than to risk leaving Victor in place, who has proven himself already to be a traitorous, overly ambitious bastard....and lose the lot.

Eric would be satisfied with LA.  Victor would not.

Crazy thought - but since the position of Eric's 'day person' is open (may bobby RIP), wouldn't that be perfect for Sookie? She and Pam are the only ones Eric trusts; she'd get the health benefits; she should just spend more time with Eric anyway; in for a penny, in for a pound - she's already up to her eyelids, may as well collect a paycheck. The fact that she's a telepath, hullo? Eric NEVER takes advantage of this fully. No one does. They use it more in fanfic than the actual books. I mean, I WOULD TAKE MORE ADVANTAGE OF SOOKIE BEING A TELEPATH IF SHE WERE MY FRIEND.Maybe she could do it temporarily until they get a plan to get Victor...

If Eric and Sookie lived together, would the fact that she lived there be a deterrent from strange vamps getting in? The 'invitation' rule? Or would Eric's residency override hers?

I know, I know...the crazy stuff I wake up with...

I was thinking that too Mari.

That maaaaybe if Sam ends up being someone Sookie no longer trusts (in the novella) that the opening for Eric's day person looks like it could get filled.

Can you guys really see Sookie that far up to her neck in vampire bullshit?  It's one thing to know Eric wheels and deals...it's another thing entirely to be the conduit for that.

I can't see her doing it. Not even DITF hard ass Sookie.

Nah, I don't think it would happen but I thought about it.

Plus the fact that Eric told her that he only trusts her & Pam...lots of trust issues going on in the last book & then his trusty day man is killed. I thought maybe CH could be potentially setting her up to make a bigger move in the relationship dept (if she in fact decides to put them together the HEA).

But I doubt it'll happen.

I just feel like that would make things even more messy between them...as if they don't have enough problems.

I can see her stepping up to a bigger role in his political life - but not as his lackey.

Well, CH wouldn't make it easy between them even if she does solidify them being together before the ending, so I can see the whole set up being right there already for the picking, but I doubt it'll happen. It is there though if she wants to write it, there's enough justification for it. It's all set up already.

an you guys really see Sookie that far up to her neck in vampire bullshit?  

But is that what Bobby did? He arranged travel arrangements, delivering cards to Sookie, Eric's business enterprises. How much of the vamp stuff did he really involve himself in? He was mostly active during the day anyway.

Sook was doing crap for Bill when he was trying to get his kitchen electrical wiring done.

Eric would not have trusted Bobby with too much in the way of vamp matters (as he said). I don't think anything she would do as dayperson would involve her any more than she already is. Might just provide her with some helpful info. Like where the number for the clean-up crew is and how to get in touch with Dr. Ludwig when she's on vacation down in Boca.

I just feel like that would make things even more messy between them...as if they don't have enough problems.

Eric already trusts Sook and respects her instincts. I think them working together would actually work out better than a lot of couples.

LOL I have no idea why I"m lobbying for this idea? I'm crazy! I have a day off from work so I can catch up on my other job, LOL. and I'm doing this! I need a good slap.

if anything, Sookie being in that position would allow her a better opportunity to know the things 'high handed' Eric would likely keep from her.

And she's involved in the vamp shit, regardless of where she works.  Her job should be (using her telepathy) helping Eric to keep Area 5 assets (including herself) safe.

Honestly, if I were her, knowing what she knows about Victor and everyone, etc and the threats that exist, I don't know how she goes to work at Merlottes every day! Personally I hate not being where the action is.  I would think that would be esp true if it was 'action' relevant to your well-being.

But this is a preference thing. I work in govt so maybe my natural setting is "power hungry control freak'

I'm not seeing a deal between Eric and FDC to be completely out of the question.

I'm not either. I could see some kind of deal, especially if Victor reveals himself to be a threat. FDC doesn't have much to go on yet, but suspicion. If he gets actual evidence that Victor is committing treason, I could see him promoting Eric - maybe giving him Victor's position of lieutenant in LA or if under enough pressure, giving him LA completely.

It seems a weird thing that FDC let Victor's ...willful impertinence stand. That Victor gave a directive 100% against FDC's orders (to protect Sookie) and FDC did nothing in retribution speaks volumes. Not sure what, tho. FDC - if he were in a good solid position - would not care about taking out Victor for his insubordination or punishing him or doing something. But FDC just let it slide! I'm not thinking FDC is a good possiblity as a strategic partner. He's got something weakening him for some reason.

His kingdom is still fairly new and large. He is the king of three states, which stretches his power to a point where it's a bit unstable because he can't govern all three himself. He has to trust his lieutenants to do it for him. If he acts against Victor without adequate evidence that treason is being committed, he risks losing the trust and loyalty of his other lieutenants. If he loses that, his whole empire is going to collapse.

I don't think he "let it slide." I think it's a matter of acting wisely. But I also feel like there is something else going on in the background that we don't know about yet. His own greed is definitely weakening him. If he had just been the king of one state, he probably wouldn't hesitate to take Victor out.

I'm so glad I found this site I was going crazy not knowing at least the name of the next book.

Crazy thought - but since the position of Eric's 'day person' is open (may bobby RIP), wouldn't that be perfect for Sookie?

I am just as crazy.  What if the new day person is not Sookie, but Jason?  He has become someone Sookie can rely on, maybe Eric will too?  I think it very far-fetched!  But I still wonder about Bobby dating Felicia.  We all know from DAG how no one gets invitations to Eric's house, now in DITF it seams to be grand central station! 

We all know from DAG how no one gets invitations to Eric's house, now in DITF it seams to be grand central station! 

YEAH! Whats up wit that? You're right! Everyone's coming and going!

Yup. That's definitely a case of two books not being coordinated. No one is supposed to have been to his house except Pam. Then again, one can justify anything- Appius made him crazy and Eric became hospitable:)

Appius said he came from Oklahoma (Zeus clan). Even if he was living under the radar, he would still have had to report to Queen Freyda. The other business that Appius had to talk to Eric about could be from her.  Also, Eric thinks Felicia could be a spy for either Texas or Oklahoma. The fact that she's in Eric's house suggests that the business could be related to Oklahoma as Appius would have made Eric invite Felicia and Bobby into his house.

Also, for a quick look at the states, google maps is awesome.
http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl

I was thinking that, Judy. He doesn't invite Fangtasia employees to his home as a rule and the fact that Bobby was coming over with papers for him to sign with Felicia in tow makes me think Felicia was also there on business.

Ashley, I think whatever business deal that Eric had to agree to is going to get people he knows and cares about killed. It wasn't stated in the book but could it be possible that Freyda is the one who is trying to overthrow Stan in Texas? Eric has been to Dallas and has been in Stan's home, possibly knows certain things that can give her an advantage. Maybe she's promising alliance to help him get the Nevada vamps out of LA if he helps her get TX. I think that could be the reason why he was so indecisive and roared "No matter what I do, someone will die!"

I think the hopelessness wasn't only caused by the attack by Alexei, but it definitely added to it.

Maybe she's promising alliance to help him get the Nevada vamps out of LA if he helps her get TX. I think that could be the reason why he was so indecisive and roared "No matter what I do, someone will die!"

I like this theory. It's like the theory I was speculating myself. I like how you tied in his "No matter what I do, someone will die!" line. It does seem like he is speaking far beyond the situation with Alexei, but an accumulation of issues.

Judy, thanks for the maps link. Ha ha. I can see the headlines now: While Geography Lessons Historically Sketchy in U.S, Thousands Learn US States for Pondering Eric Northman Takeover Theories. Personally, I'm gonna print a map and bust out my color pencils and go to town!

LOL!! If there was ever anything that would inspire me to learn the particular location and proximity of the states, I agree, this is it!!

Haha. You ladies crack me up!
Has anyone noticed that Eric took off back to his place w/o Jason's truck? I found it odd that Jason doesn't call Sookie to check in on her and to let her know he is either sleeping over at Eric's or got a ride back to his house some other method. Sookie obviously stayed up long enough to watch the bodies turn to ash and dust and take a shower. The lack of communication worries me.

The lack of communication worries me.

Yeah...I'm doing my thorough, slow, Rainman-inspired-marking-the-book-up-with-a-pencil-since-its-my-book-anyway reread. I think there's likely a lot of stuff to be concerned about. (My fear that Dead Letters will be 'effing miserable' to quote my earlier post)

Altho, I am thinking of writing a new fanfic -kind of similar to the one I did on Niall and Bill's search for Sookie--focusing on what's going on at Eric's house while everyone else is at Sookie's. Humorous, of course!  Who'd we leave there? Pam and Jason? hmm. Wonder what trouble those crazy kids could get into...?

LOL! Yeah those two....Can't wait to read what you come up with Mari.

Mari, I think thats a great idea! I can't wait to read it.

(My fear that Dead Letters will be 'effing miserable' to quote my earlier post)

I have the same fear. The Eric/Sookie moments were so good that I'm afraid the "honeymoon" phase has come to a close and the angst is going to be back in Dead Letters.

I just got DITF yestday, finished it this morning.  Great Book.  I don't think that DL will be about separating Eric and Sookie.  If they were going to not make it I think it would have been a hanger in the end, like DAG(which vampire) I think CH effectively answered a lot of questions in DITF without raising 10,000 more.  The fact that both Eric and Sookie are outright telling each other that they love each other after all this time made me deliriousy happy.  I am inclined to believe the DL's are from Gran, because more than once in DITF we hear about Gran's choice and I think she knew all along about the supernatural. I feel it will be a this is why I made this choice. This was because of my love for...  Follow your heart kind of thing .  And I am not Miss Optimistic, I am just putting together what I saw.

But I love DITF.  It was worth the wait.

I am really intrigued about how the Claude & Dermott situation will play-out in Dead Letters. We know that Claude will help Sookie clean-out her loft; also, we know Niall can send letters from Faery so that may signify some letters being sent back & forth, who knows, Niall may open the portals again!

Oh, I just realized how fitting the term "dead letters" was for the letter she'd received from Niall, since it was written on parchment made from the flesh of the sprites that helped kill the Stackhouses. Ick.

Oh, yeah, the portal. First, what IS the portal? I have a Star Trek-like idea of what a portal is. But when Claude said something to the effect of the one near Sookie's house  'may not be fully closed' or something like that, I was just like, "Huh? What's the point of having a portal if you can't close it properly?" LOL. WTF?

There should be some fairy guards outside the defective portal.

Claude made it sound like a defective garage door. I mean, geez, Niall. WTF? You invent skin and you can't get the fairy garage door closed properly?

From what I read on one of the CH Q&A threads was that Elves can travel between the fae realm and human realm. That means it's a loophole. Niall said he was closing off portals for the Fae to the Human realm. He didn't say he was closing off portals from the Fae to other realms such as the Elven realm. We don't know if he's closed off access to the demon realms either.

Hadn't thought about the demon realm. That could be interesting.

Yeah. As long as a fae has access to travel to a demon or elven realm, he would be able to travel back to the human realm. It's just one extra hop! That is if the CH interview was true and she sticks to her word.

As long as a fae has access to travel to a demon or elven realm, he would be able to travel back to the human realm. It's just one extra hop!

Ohh, very interesting! This paves the way for Niall to reappear into the series. I think he'll be coming back in the next book.

LOL. I think I'm getting this. So - subway concept. Its not a straight shot between Fae and human realm, but you can transfer in demon realm and still travel between the two? Oh, that's priceless.

demon realm = Grand Central

As for elves, are we going to see elves?

Yeah, in fact, it could be he elf realm that has the doorway into our world, since there will be an elf in DL.

are sprites elves?

Hmm, something like that. It all depends on the author's interpretation. Elves in LOTR are just like the Fae in Sookieverse.

I wonder what an elf will look like in Sookieverse!

Okay, so slight deviation from present topic, but why do people assume Eric will become the King of LA? If Victor is killed (yay!), wouldn't it make more sense for Eric to become the new Lieutenant governing LA for FDC?

I can't see Eric bargaining for the right to become a King since we, and everyone in Sookieverse, have been operating under the assumption he doesn't want a promotion and certainly doesn't seem to want to become a King. And I can't see FDC saying "Oh, hai Eric. See, we're bffs now so I'ma going to make you a KING! And forfeit my newly acquired territory that I had to campaign for, for like months" It just doesn't jive for me

However, I'm wondering if Eric/Appius weren't somehow still connected to Russia or a foreign vampire political body. Eric's comment about how he, Appius, doesn't care about Eric's standing in this country seemed a little ominous to me. What other country would Appius be concerned about? Which makes me wonder about the above theories about a deal with a new/foreign regent. Hmmmm. Oh, Eric, what a complicated life you lead.

I feel as though Sookie will have to make a decision in the future as to whether or not she really wants to be with Eric. If he does get some kind of promotion within LA he'll probably have to move to New Orleans. I have a hard time seeing Sookie agreeing to moving though I would personally love for her to get up the guts to do so. Not to mention the fact she'll probably see even less of him.

 As far as the elves go, I imagine them to be short, not very attractive, grumpy/violent little buggers. With sharp teeth. I vaguely remember reading somewhere that Tolkien kind of invented the stunningly beautiful elf concept. The earliest elves were depicted as unattractive, short, and malevolent in literature. I think.

P.S. First time posting here ;D

Okay, so slight deviation from present topic, but why do people assume Eric will become the King of LA? If Victor is killed (yay!), wouldn't it make more sense for Eric to become the new Lieutenant governing LA for FDC?

I've thought about that too, which is certainly a possibility. It just depends on how far he has to go. At the moment, he is unsure of FDC's actual alliance with Victor - whether there is true trust there. If/when he does kill Victor, he may have to go as far as becoming king. It also comes down to how much he trusts FDC and how much FDC trusts him. Becoming king may be necessary, but as you said, he could just end up as the Lieutenant for LA.

We know - from what Sookie has read in his mind - that he doesn't want to become king. But that doesn't mean that he won't if that means protecting himself and his people. And I don't think FDC would just be handing him LA. If Eric does become king, it'll be because he took those rights (his own takeover) or some sort of deal is made.

If he does get some kind of promotion within LA he'll probably have to move to New Orleans.

Not necessarily. Victor is in NO because he is the Sheriff of that area. If Eric became Lieutenant, he would still be the Sheriff of Area 5, and therefore, stationed in Shreveport.

Folgers - good thoughts. Can you officially intro yourself in the Intro thread?

I think that Eric's only reason to become king would be to protect Sookie. You don't attack the wife of a vampire king. And more interestingly, in a recent interview CH declined to comment on a question about Eric becoming king. She didn't shoot it down.

Okay, so slight deviation from present topic, but why do people assume Eric will become the King of LA? If Victor is killed (yay!), wouldn't it make more sense for Eric to become the new Lieutenant governing LA for FDC?

If Eric does become king, it'll be because he took those rights (his own takeover) or some sort of deal is made. 

Exactly! FDC isn't bad for a king; he seems to enforce his promise of protection for Sookie, he hasn't taken advantage of her telepathy and he recognizes her marriage with Eric. And if Eric were to overtake him, wouldn't he become king of all of FDC's territories, including Nevada? Would that have anything to do with him explaining the national vampire system in DITF? I hope not.

I feel as though Sookie will have to make a decision in the future as to whether or not she really wants to be with Eric.

I've always thought the opposite, that Eric would have to chose between Sookie and power.  I think it was foreshadowed in DTTW and brought up at least three times since.

And if Eric were to overtake him, wouldn't he become king of all of FDC's territories, including Nevada?

I don't know. I made that same question in a post somewhere. I don't know how he could just take LA without Nevada and Arkansas.

I've always thought the opposite, that Eric would have to chose between Sookie and power.  I think it was foreshadowed in DTTW and brought up at least three times since.

I've always thought that too. I definitely think Sookie will be weighing the pros and cons, but I feel like the thing that will tip the scales depends on Eric and what he is willing to give up - Sookie or power.

In DITF Eric is accumulating power, I'm assuming that means he is gaining allies. Allies that will help back him up against Victor. I'm not sure if he is yet seriously considering a takeover of his own because he seems to think that FDC does not trust Victor. But I'm predicting that he is going to find it necessary to become king to keep Sookie and his vampires safe, mainly Sookie.

 And if Eric were to overtake him, wouldn't he become king of all of FDC's territories, including Nevada?

Maybe when/if Eric succeeds in a full out takeover he will give Nevada and Ark. to two vampires sheriffs or kings/queens of another state that want an extra territory?

I've always thought that too. I definitely think Sookie will be weighing the pros and cons, but I feel like the thing that will tip the scales depends on Eric and what he is willing to give up - Sookie or power

CH said in an interview that if she were Sookie she would consider if the good things about being Eric's girlfriend outweighed the bad things. I too think both Sookie and Eric will be looking at the pros and cons of their relationship.

Maybe when/if Eric succeeds in a full out takeover he will give Nevada and Ark. to two vampires sheriffs or kings/queens of another state that want an extra territory?

I made a post along that same thought process. My thought was that he would give those territories away in exchange for the aid of other kings/queens if/when he succeeded in a takeover.

Well, then you and me are on the same wavelength, because that is exactly how I'm picturing the takeover going down.

But I'm predicting that he is going to find it necessary to become king to keep Sookie and his vampires safe, mainly Sookie.

I agree! If he becomes King it would be to protect his group, esp. books have made clear he doesn't want it.  But what confuses me is how he would be able to protect Sookie.  Wouldn't being with the king put an even bigger target on her back? Especially being a human.  Sophie-Anne loved Hadley, turned her, and still couldn't protect her. And on that note, wouldn't Eric have to marry another vampire, nulling his situation with Sookie?  I'm thinking all he could do as King would be to order vamps not to bother her, which FDC already did. And because of their current marriage, he already has the "no vamp has access to Sookie" thing going on.

The main benefit I see to him being king would be the fact that he doesn't have to answer to anyone - he would be his own boss. He wouldn't have to worry about someone higher in the hierarchy pulling rank.

And on that note, wouldn't Eric have to marry another vampire, nulling his situation with Sookie?

I don't think it's required to be married, but it does strengthen your position. I don't think FDC is married. It was imperative in ATD that SA remarry because her position was already so weak. She really needed that extra support.

But what confuses me is how he would be able to protect Sookie.  Wouldn't being with the king put an even bigger target on her back?

Its possible, but I think she is already so famous in the supe world that it wouldn't make a significant difference whether or not she was the wife of a king if someone really wanted to do her (or Eric) harm.

Excellent points Ashley!

It was imperative in ATD that SA remarry because her position was already so weak.  

True that! She did marry Peter Threadgill when she was powerful, that's why I thought they had to. But you're right, it doesn't say anywhere that it's a must.  I don't think all this will go down in Dead Letters, but I'm at least expecting Victor to get taken out, with or without FDC's approval. And the national system Eric explained must have some signifigance to his position.

I think she is already so famous in the supe world that it wouldn't make a significant difference whether or not she was the wife of a king if someone really wanted to do her (or Eric) harm.

You're right!

but I'm at least expecting Victor to get taken out, with or without FDC's approval.

Me too. As Sookie puts it Victor has got to go.

 And the national system Eric explained must have some signifigance to his position.

Maybe there will be an informal gathering of the Amun clan. And thats where Sookie finds out about Eric's takeover plans? (if he has them right now...)

Haha, excellent points, all. I could see Eric becoming a King out of necessity, but I really worry for Sookie/Eric if it happens. If Eric becomes a King out of necessity that would make the choosing time with Sookie (which is what she values) over power question moot, wouldn't it? He'd have to choose power to protect himself, Sookie, his vamps, and his territory or die. In my opinion, Eric will of course choose power. Given all of the drama that would have to have gone down I'm not sure Sookie would able to either understand or appreciate that position. Therefore, it all falls back on Sookie and how much she wants to be with Eric. IMHO ;D You guys seem to have much more faith in Sookie than I do...

I can see her helping Eric take down Victor politically, or take out Victor physically, but to help Eric in a massive take over, which I've always thought typically takes years of planning, conniving, and perfect timing, is a different kettle of fish IMHO. The only way I could see Sookie onboard for a takeover of their own is if FDC is bad news afterall (is it obvious I'm hoping he really is an okay kind of guy?).

Maybe there will be an informal gathering of the Amun clan. And thats where Sookie finds out about Eric's takeover plans? (if he has them right now...)   

Hopefully he would have mentioned it to her before then ;D But maybe all this Victor drama will cause an emergency meeting of the clans? I mean, can't be good for anyone's business if a Lt. of a state is trying to discredit a sheriff just 'cause he's power hungry. Who knows what else Victor has been up to? Although I doubt CH would do this since it's too similar to the plot in Rhodes - convention, secret political meetings, etc. Even if it is for different reasons and with somewhat different characters.

I don't know Victor seems to be too opprtunistc to not be up to something. Why else would he a) not let Eric help Sookie in the Fairy war when he knew Eric was married to her,arrange for Sookie and Pam to be killed on the side of the road when he is fully aware that Sookie is under the protection of FDC. What would his reasoning be in Killing Sookie?

What would his reasoning be in Killing Sookie?

Well, according to Bruno, Sookie gives Eric an advantage he doesn't have through her fairy blood connection and her talent. If he can't have her, he doesn't want Eric to either.

lol that was supposed to be B ) not the smiley face

I thought so. It was too random.

Hahah! I was wondering about the smiley face, though my first thought was "Aww, we don't use the cool sunglasses smiley enough."

Maybe there will be an informal gathering of the Amun clan. And thats where Sookie finds out about Eric's takeover plans? (if he has them right now...)   

Hopefully he would have mentioned it to her before then ;D But maybe all this Victor drama will cause an emergency meeting of the clans?

I've been meaning to double check the timeline on here, but in DITF Eric mentioned that the clans have an informal summit every second year, with the big summits like Rhodes happening in the other years.  The Rhodes summit occured in the year prior to DITF - which means there is another informal meeting coming up some time in the next eight months.

And I'm starting to think that this meeting approaching has something to do with Eric spilling his guts about the hierarchy.  

What would his reasoning be in Killing Sookie?

Eric has shown her as his weakness time and again.  He's done some pretty risky things politically to keep other vampires away from her.

Victor is plotting to take Eric down.  Taking Sookie out weakens Eric...and that's all good for Victor.

I've been meaning to double check the timeline on here, but in DITF Eric mentioned that the clans have an informal summit every second year, with the big summits like Rhodes happening in the other years

You have it backwards. The formal meeting - the summit - is every two years. They have informal meetings between the two years whenever it is necessary.

Yeah that's what I meant Ash.

But either way it means the same thing.  You have a summit one year, an informal meeting the following year.

And this year is the informal meeting right?

Wait.  Didn't he say that they get together on forums "when necessary"?

I had the impression the informal meeting occurred every second year, regardless.

Yep there is a meeting every year.

“How does the business of—well, of Amun, say—get conducted between

those biennial meetings?” There had to be stuff that came up.

“Message boards, mostly. If we have to have a face-to-face, committees of sheriffs meet, depending on the situation. If I had an argument with the vampire of another sheriff, I’d call that sheriff, and if he wasn’t ready to give me satisfaction, his lieutenant would meet with my lieutenant.”

“And if that didn’t work?”

“We’d kick the dispute up the ladder, to the summit. In between meeting years, there’s an informal gathering, with no ceremony or celebration.”

They do meet on forums to conduct business between meeting years. I'm not sure if an informal meeting is coming up - I don't think it's been a full year since Rhodes. According to our Timeline thread, ATD started at the end of Sept. and DITF took place in March. But CH could always flashforward.

I had the impression the informal meeting occurred every second year, regardless.

Yeah, you're right. It does happen regardless.

She could jump forward six months - but that's a fair jump at this point in the story.

I'm thinking more that it may be book 12 that all of this starts coming to a head anyway...which should take us forward six months or so.

Yeah, that would be too big of a jump, especially considering the plot at the moment. I would be wondering why Victor is still undead for almost 6 months. So yeah, I can see an informal meeting in book 12.

I am listing to DTIF on audio. I am wondering if Claude is interesting in getting to Eric (at Sookie's), not b'c he wants to get a glimpse of the handsome vampire but for a more sinister reason.

I just think it was his libido overriding his good sense. But it's an interesting idea.

Yeah, that would be too big of a jump, especially considering the plot at the moment. I would be wondering why Victor is still undead for almost 6 months. So yeah, I can see an informal meeting in book 12.

You know, CH used Katrina in ATD as a natural disaster in LA. We just had several tornadoes hit through central Oklahoma. I wonder if she'd kill off some vamps with them?

I was thinking maybe there will be some newcomers from OK, and Sookie may meet them in this informal meeting.

Laura - I am still not buying Claude's personality transplant so I'm all ears.

I haven't heard the audio - was there something about the way it was read that makes you sus?

Well, I've been catching a lot of little things, esp. obs. said as fact by Sookie & it's making me wonder if they are red herrings.

In this instance, Sookie definitely assumes that Claude wants to see him b'c he's so handsome (& Claude is gay) & Claude infer's it but it's never said out loud.

Right before Claude comes into the Kicthen, Sookie hears from Hunter how Eric showed up last night & slept in her closet & then she reads his note to her. He mentions all the strange people in her house -  the child, the scent of Fae & another human man. Sookie thinks "Wow" in regard to the fact that Eric is currently in his "daytime rest" in her hidey hole.

When I heard how she said it - the WOW made me think that Sookie was referring to to the fact actually gets it. The fact that Eric chose to be at his most vulnerable despite the unexpected people that are traipsing through & the fact that her hidey hole is not really all that safe.

So back to Claude.....he tells her he just wants to peak. She says no. he goes to the bathroom & she decides to follow. She catches him stopped outside her door. Debating & lurking.

So she decides to wait him out. She says - which I didn't catch the 1st time that Claude took an extraordinarily long time in the bathroom.  My impression was that Claude was waiting Sookie out in return.

I mean Eric is hot & all but it really seemed excessive just to get a peak at the slumbering vampire.

And I just starting thinking about how huge it is that he is sleeping there & how that Sookie is really the only thing protecting him...from anyone.

The other thing was that when I read & even when I listened, at the end I kind of got a weird vibe about Claude & the other fairy. I felt like they were actually working together. That there was an understanding of some sort between them. IDK...I will try & elab. later.

First of all, I'd like to think that Eric wouldn't have slept there unless he felt 200% safe so that makes me believe he trusts that Claude would not harm him. Also, for Claude being that close to Eric, is only something he can do while Eric rests as it's too dangerous once Eric is awake - Fairies seem really curious, I'd put it down to curiosity. I think Niall asked Claude to protect Sookie - we know Niall's letters letters reach Claude; I don't think Niall would allow Claude to harm Eric, as Eric is protecting her too.

Yet if I am wrong, then what Pam said about Eric taking foolish risks for Sookie could make sense in this case... I hope I am wrong!

And yes, it is SO hot that Eric decides to sleep in Sookie's hidey-hole!!! I am on holiday next week and have been keeping my second read for then, a slow, delectable read on the beach... can't wait!!

Good points but I'm still not 100% convinced although you're probably right.

I think that Eric figured if Sookie was sound asleep w/a child in the house, the fairy was probably safe - at least in Sookie's mind. But do I think this is a prime example of him being careless where Sookie is concerned.  But it also shows how much he trusts her & wants to be there for her. Maybe he figured Sookie wouldn't actually say anything to Claude about him being in the house.

I hear what you say about curiosity but Sookie has pic's. It seems weird to me he waited her out for such a long time in the bathroom just for a glimpse but I could be making something out of nothing much.

 But do I think this is a prime example of him being careless where Sookie is concerned. 

I agree.  Since FDTW, Eric's judgement has been really off and I think it was really evident in this book just how clouded it has become.

LDID/CD Eric would never have done what DITF Eric did in this scene.  And yes, it speaks to how much he has come to trust Sookie, and of course that is a good thing in terms of progress in his relationship with her.   But we all know that Sookie herself can be too trusting and I'm feeling that her trust in Niall, and by extension Claude is a prime example of her continuing to believe the best of people regardless of her experiences.  Red flags were thrown out about Niall in this book and Sookie (and Eric) showed no indication that they could see them.

I'm not saying Sookie hasn't grown or become more savvy bc clearly, she has.  But I think the fact that Niall et al. are family and she is so desperate to connect is certainly making it more difficult for her to see things clearly.

I'm really questioning how the blood bond, and specifically what seems to be Eric's decision to completely surrender to it, is playing into his decision making.

I started questioning this when he showed up at her house in FDTW and I pretty much haven't stopped questioning it since.  This book was just glaring in terms of how he seems to be ruled by his heart more than his head.  And that is not a good place for a politically vulnerable vampire to be

oh no Aaine, you've totally made me nervous about Eric's safety now!!!

Well, when you look at the CH interview where she lumped Appius and Niall together, saying that they both were egocentric and if they wanted to do a thing then they were convinced that it was the right thing to do just because they wanted it, it would definitely confirm those red flags about Niall and the fairy kin.

Claude does seem to be mischievous, but I agree, it was over the top for Claude to be waiting out Sookie seemingly in an attempt to just peek in at Eric.  I wonder if it was not to directly attack him, but that Niall has given him some orders to put some sort of spell or magic on him?  Could have just as dire results as a direct attack, but would allow Claude to hide what he did from Sookie?  There's definitely something up with all the fairy action on her property, and the portal maybe not being totally closed.

Pam also had warnings about the consequences if Eric doesn't get his shit together, mentally and politically speaking.  I wonder if the decision to remove the BB will be mutual.

Pam also had warnings about the consequences if Eric doesn't get his shit together, mentally and politically speaking.  I wonder if the decision to remove the BB will be mutual.

Yes & I took this warning about it to be more ominous. She has stated it throughout the series. I thought it was esp. important it was raised again in this one.  

Pam also had warnings about the consequences if Eric doesn't get his shit together, mentally and politically speaking.  I wonder if the decision to remove the BB will be mutual.

Yes & I took this warning about it to be more ominous. She has stated it throughout the series. I thought it was esp. important it was raised again in this one.  

Eric was so off his game, this book actually got me wondering if Sookie would last the series but Eric might not. But CH said both would live through the end, didn't she? If she did, do we trust her not to change her mind?...

She stated it again recently.

As Judy said, she has stated recently that she doesn't plan on killing Eric. So, whatever statement she was making in DITF - with Eric being off his game - it wasn't his impending demise.

Maybe they willingly get rid of the bond (if the drug didn't already dot the trick)....??

That's sounds possible. Then Sookie could be finally certain of her feelings.

I would love love LOVE if they made a mutual decision to break it.  They were both forced into making it, to see them mutually decide to break it would be fitting.

I totally agree!  And it would be great if they both got to a place emotionally and trust wise that they just didn't need it.  If Sookie truly knew how she and Eric felt and owned it, and Eric trusted her feelings for him and felt secure, then they wouldn't need it any longer.  If they made the decision to break it together, I think that would be a really significant step forward in their relationship!

My only concern would be tracking - could he find her if he needed to?  I guess they wouldn't completely stop exchanging blood though.  And this is assuming that the pledging was more significant and would protect Sookie politically more than the BB.

i would love it if they broke it off. they were forced into it and how do they know their feelings for each otehr aren't just form the BB? plus i think that Sam and Sookie should get together.  they would fit so well together.

I would be HORRABLY dissapointed if Sookie gets together with Sam.  I don't think I would ever read the books again.  Eric the Viking is just the answer to everything

Holly, I respect your opinion, and I can see how you could come to that conclusion. And we most certainly want to encourage diverse opinions here. But for me, it is Eric, because that romance has been brewing ever since LDID. I know Sam is a nice guy, and he is carrying a torch for Sookie, but only on rare occasions (a kiss or two, really) has she reciprocated. Otherwise, Eric has always been on her mind (and with her during most of her adventures), even when she was ostensibly with someone else, like Quinn. I also would be so disappointed that I would never read the books again. All that build-up to Eric for nine books or more, only to switch to Sam at the end, would be very distressing to me.

Yes I agree with you AP.  I think most readers would be very dissapointed if suddenly she would change her direction and go down the "safe road" (which is not safe at all, because Sam can not protect her as well as Eric in the Sups/vampire world)

It would be a total 'Jump the Dog' moment.

If its any consolation, Sam's getting some action in the SamIAm challenge on Fanfic

LOL! Jump the dog. I love it!

I like Sam too - despite the conspiracy theories currently abounding re: Book 11 - but it would be a major betrayal/switcheroo for them to get together at this point.

Unless, of course, CH kills Eric. Which is still my fear.

Lol. A 'Snuggle' commercial was just on. And tonight at 11pm is the news segment on plastic surgery/dimples.

Its like not possible to escape Eric/Askars even if I wanted to.

Kill Eric?  I thought CH said she would not do that?  I really don't think she would!!

She won't do that, but there are certainly dozens of ways to end the romance. I would hate all of them.

Noooo ......not Sam.  Its just to boring/typical an ending.   I could live with Sookie not ending up with Eric but CH would have to write a cracker finale to explain why.

well, if it was AB telling the story, he'd just have Eric have to drink Bill's blood for some reason and then they'd just have some gay epic love story.

The End.

haha, well that would be great  ehemm

LOL. Maybe my next fanfic? I'm so good with coming up wtih ideas. Follow thru is killer. Just ask my boss!

Hmmmm - I'd love to read about Pam's reaction to that.

OMG! a challenge? LOL! I'll do it. We can beat CH with our own version of Book 11!

I may be the only one here to say that but I really love the BB and will be deeply mortified/chagrined when CH breaks it. I think it intensifies the relationship in a way that makes it very surreal and I want that in a vamp/human relationship! I love how they can really feel each other, how they know where each other is or what mood the other is in, I find that so terribly romantic. My happy scenario is that they find a way of doing the blood bond a 3rd time but in a really consensual & loving way, that it becomes a true marriage.

Frankly, I also think it enriches the relationship. And it gives Sookie the kind of insight into Eric as she might have with a shifter. It also gives Eric assurance about her feelings and keeps her safe. But really, unless they stop exchanging blood and stay away from each, I don't think it can be broken.

I hope you're right - I can't believe CH has such strong feelings against it!

I am actually looking forward to the BB being broken; Sookie uses it as an excuse. It's as if when Eric regained his memories, she lost all of hers.  I would love it if the bond was broken and she realized her feelings are genuine and the bond had nothing to do with their attraction.  Maybe Octavia can sever it, or something else magical because I can't imagine that they could be seperated long enough...  unless it was off page? And about the Sam thing above, I would be devastated.  If she ended up with him I would call that book "Dead on Arrival." He brought her a chicken basket after she was tortured. A chicken basket! Come on!

On the Dead Letters topic: I was wondering if Sookie will find letters between Gran and Fintan in the attic.  Right now I can't think of another way to answer her questions about how they got together, if Gran was bewitched or willing, etc. Also, I might be attributing to much signifigance to it, but in DITF Dermot seems to have some sort of psychic albility, predicting Judith's visit, right? Maybe his twin had telepathic abilities that passed to Sookie, and we could learn more about that.

I'm just wondering, does anyone have an idea as to when the 11th of the series will be out? I'm so hooked I need my next fix....

She does one a year. It will be the first week of May next year. I think they've announced the exact date, but I don't remember. I suggest a reread or two to keep you going. We also have a thread with book recommendations.

And then there is also True Blood. We spend more time complaining about it than enjoying it, but it has its moments.

I would be so terribly devastated if Sookie would end-up with Sam..

On the Dead Letters topic: I was wondering if Sookie will find letters between Gran and Fintan in the attic.

Recently CH answered a ? on her board saying she will most definitely finding out what is in the attic.

But she didn't say what the what is.

I didn't bother pasting the quote b'c we pretty much already knew she was going in the attic but I can if you want.

Actually - in the next book I am dying to find out the repercussion's in of the drug she took. I think that would be really interesting & twisty. I really, really hope that Alcide gets called to carpet if indeed he set her up in order to break it.

I am also actually looking forward to the Novella. I am not worried about Sam. He has too many skeleton's. The focus has always been Eric & that has grown w/each book.

Laura, I completely agree with you about the focus on Eric and how it has grown each book. I am still worried about Sam because of the "nice" moments that he had with Sookie in DITF. But I don't think the novella will change the direction. It would happen in the books. I figure there will be some letters in the attic in DL.

I really, really hope that Alcide gets called to carpet if indeed he set her up in order to break it.

Did Alcide know they are blood bonded? I didn't really absorb how nasty his actions were until my second read, so I wouldn't put it past him.

Sam: The thing that worries me about him now is Jannalynn.  There must be some shady reason for him going out with that psychopath. Is it connected to his previous maenad fetish? Sookie thought it was something signifigant to consider later, and whenever that is planted in a book it comes back up sooner or later.

I don't think the drug killed the BB because after she took it, she knew Eric was in pain and that's what made her go to him at his house.

I don't think the drug killed the BB because after she took it, she knew Eric was in pain and that's what made her go to him at his house

That's true, but it was after she threw up, which I read to imply that it wasn't strong in her system anymore, This has got me thinking, and I know it's a big stretch, but what if Alcide is somehow working with Victor or with the government informers or something to disrupt Eric's interests? By having the pack meeting at that specific time, not allowing Eric to come, and giving Sookie a drug that subdued the bond as Eric was being attacked is suspicious to me. It could have something to do with the business Eric was doing that would have Bobby and Felcia at his house? Or all the govn't aggresion towards the weres? I'm probably on the wrong track, but it's possible.

I am sooooo intrigued about the whole Bobby/Felicia business... Since Felicia was a spy for Victor, it makes total sense she dates Eric's day man, I just don't understand why Eric would let Bobby bring her!

Did Alcide know they are blood bonded?

Pretty much everyone knows.   Considering how we know Supe gossip spreads (book 5),  plus Sam knows & Sam is dating Jannalynn.

But even if that wasn't the case, Eric had to decree it to out maneuver Quinn & then Victor. Plus he calls her his "bonded". In order to be wed, you have to exchange blood.

There must be some shady reason for him going out with that psychopath. Is it connected to his previous maenad fetish? Sookie thought it was something signifigant to consider later, and whenever that is planted in a book it comes back up sooner or later. 

My initial instinct when reading was that Alcide & Sam were in cahoots to get her out of the vamp world.

They both ask her about Eric (in a diff. way form how Bill asked) - Sam says over & over i so many books how he wants better for her & her out of that world.

They other possibility is that If they aren't working together- then Jannalynn is getting info about Sookie from Sam & feeding it to Alcide.

You never know - it could take time to break or even weaken it.

My initial instinct when reading was that Alcide & Sam were in cahoots to get her out of the vamp world.

That's an excellent point!! Sam and Alcide knew each other before Sookie met Alcide, per the phone call in CD.

I am sooooo intrigued about the whole Bobby/Felicia business... Since Felicia was a spy for Victor, it makes total sense she dates Eric's day man, I just don't understand why Eric would let Bobby bring her!

I am very interested in this too.  It could be within reason that he let her because objecting would reveal he knows she's a spy, but it was stated he didn't allow any Fangtasia employees over. The many continuity errors regarding Eric's "house rules" really grinded my gears!

The many continuity errors regarding Eric's "house rules" really grinded my gears!

ha!!! Story of our Southern Vampire Mystery reading lives!!!!

I am sooooo intrigued about the whole Bobby/Felicia business... Since Felicia was a spy for Victor, it makes total sense she dates Eric's day man, I just don't understand why Eric would let Bobby bring her!

That's a great point too. I didn't make that connection about Felicia being a spy.   Funny that she was a spy but also scared of Sookie!

Funny that she was a spy but also scared of Sookie!

Yeah, that doesn't make much sense...

I hope we find out more about that bizarre meeting in Dead Letters. Safe to say that Fangtasia needs a new bartender and whoever was paying Felicia will need to plant a new spy in Shreveport.

I am dying to find out the repercussion's in of the drug she took. I think that would be really interesting & twisty.

I was researching and found that a Shaman can be a medium between the living and the dead. too funny!

Bewitching shamans and curing shamans. Both kinds take a hallucinogenic drink, whose Jivaro name is natema, in order to enter the supernatural world. This brew, commonly called yagé, or yajé, in Colombia, ayahuasca (Inca 'vine of the dead') in Ecuador and Peru. The Jivaro boil it with the leaves of a similar vine to produce a tea that contains the powerful hallucinogenic. These compounds have chemical structures and effects similar, but not identical to LSD, mescaline of the peyote cactus, and psilocybin of the psychotropic Mexican mushroom.

The drug did seem like she was on ectasy. She was even having warm fuzzy thoughts about Alcide.     

Okay, just throwing this crazy idea out there, feel free to shoot it down, I'm not sold on it:     
I had a crazy thought while listening to the audio version (and since CH said Alcide did something really bad) that he could be interested in her as being part of the pack. I know it's out there, right! And I actually hate the idea, but, Alcide would also probably like Sookie to read minds for him at this crucial time because the Were's don't want to become 2nd rate citizens.

Bitten Weres are turned by what - saliva? Just yucked myself out thinking there was saliva in the drink. Seriously, what was Sookie thinking. She chugged a year old drink! CH also had several short stories about a Were and a vampire couple. This would also cause problems for Eric's political reputation.

On another note:

Alcide said the pack needed a Shaman (someone with a magical abilities). The drink might just make Sookie realize she is more talented than she originally thought. Maybe Amelia told Tray she thought Sookie was a magical null or something along that line and he reported that to Alcide. A Shaman also works with the spiritual world so maybe she opened up a whole new can of worms.

 Fangtasia needs a new bartender    
I think it's fun that the bartender dies in most every book. I'm looking forward to see who the next new bartender is.

I am sooooo intrigued about the whole Bobby/Felicia business
Sookie said Felicia had marks on her neck when she went to Fangtasia. Was that from feeding Bill or maybe she was the one doing Appius? haha!  And Eric's bar was empty - Is he purposely not wanting business because his crazy brother is there and might kill the patrons or is Victor trying to ruin his business?

I was researching and found that a Shaman can be a medium between the living and the dead.

Nice. That is her job description.

I had a crazy thought while listening to the audio version (and since CH said Alcide did something really bad) that he could be interested in her as being part of the pack. I know it's out there, right! 

It is out there! But I'm pretty sure CH is not going to turn Sookie into a were. Plus, why have her drink saliva? He could have just attacked her one night. (Side note: the idea of her drinking saliva is gross.)

Sookie said Felicia had marks on her neck when she went to Fangtasia.

Really? I missed that. Looks like I'll be doing a re-read.

Was that from feeding Bill or maybe she was the one doing Appius?

Appius most likely wanted a man... or a boy.

And Eric's bar was empty - Is he purposely not wanting business because his crazy brother is there and might kill the patrons or is Victor trying to ruin his business?

I think Victor is ruining Eric's business. We know he has other businesses, but I think Fangtasia was the most lucrative. It's definitely the most well-known. A great way to discredit Eric would be to demonstrate that he is not keeping up on his businesses - his area is losing money, and therefore, he is a less effective Sheriff. He's too distracted by his human, etc. I can see a lot of ways Victor could spin that in his favor.

I can't see Eric allowing his business to suffer just because of Alexei. If Alexei was that much of a threat to his business, I think Eric would have just kept them at home and would have had Pam run Fangtasia in his stead. He probably felt it was safe to bring him because Fangtasia was so empty.

It is out there! But I'm pretty sure CH is not going to turn Sookie into a were.
Yep, too weird.  

Appius most likely wanted a man... or a boy.
Your right! He isn't into women. I was just thinking of a better excuse of why Felicia was at Eric's house than being with Bobby. 

He probably felt it was safe to bring him because Fangtasia was so empty.  
That is a good thought, wonder what Victor did: Put a spell on the place or opened a better place, started rumors or made restrictions so the club was no fun anymore. Mmmmm.

So sorry to butt in, I was hoping someone could let me know the names of the other books/novellas I need to read... I have books 1-10 and a 'touch of dead'. I've just been reading through what you all have said, and noticed I haven't read all I can. I'm in Australia and not everything is out down here, but can order online what ever I need!!! cheers

Hey emmalee!  Don't apologize, you're not butting in at all, but just so you know, this is probably a question that should be in the "Random Thoughts" or "Other Book Recommendations" thread, but it's early and I'm lazy so I'm just going to respond here.  

I think your best bet would be to go on Charlain Harris' own website. I'm quite sure you would find a listing of all the Sookie short stories and where to find them.  "A Touch of Dead" was a great thing, because it meant I could buy most of the stories in one book.  I actually just stood in a book store and read the short story "Bacon", because it was in a big anthology of many other stories by various writers and I really didn't want to buy it!  You could also check out a webshare site like 4share once you know what stories you're looking for?  Hope that's helpful.  

I had a crazy thought while listening to the audio version (and since CH said Alcide did something really bad) that he could be interested in her as being part of the pack. I know it's out there, right!

I don't think it's so out there. I mean I don't think in terms of wanting her to be Were but an official part of the pack in some capacity it's exactly what he is trying to do. Shaman seems like the perfect ruse. 

He's always wanted her for his own means. He's always been a user.  If he could "officially" call her something in the pack, then he could use her however or whenever b'c he's Alpha.  

Here's an "out there" thought for you: maybe Alcide kills Sam to get Jannalynn for himself...

maybe Alcide kills Sam to get Jannalynn for himself

Never thought about if Sam would survive the series.  If Sam was gone Sookie could buy Merlotte's and then she could work there forever! haha! Not sure if he would have to kill Sam for Jannalynn, Sam seems to give up pretty easily on women, he wouldn't put up much of a fight.

an official part of the pack in some capacity it's exactly what he is trying to do.

So this Shaman role could possibly tie her to the pack whether she realizes it or not. I'm thinking he's tricked her somehow.

If Sam was gone Sookie could buy Merlotte's and then she could work there forever!

With the money she got from Claudine!!!!!!!!

an official part of the pack in some capacity it's exactly what he is trying to do. Shaman seems like the perfect ruse.  

True. I agree that he is looking for a way to include her in his pack somehow (not necessarily by turning her into a were). Having her as his Shaman would fulfill that need and make her position "official."

maybe Alcide kills Sam to get Jannalynn for himself...

I've debated whether Sam will survive the series. At some point, I thought he would die in some attempt to save Sookie (like Bill was supposed to). I go back and forth on it, but I still think it's a possibility he might die in the end.

That would break my heart!  As much as I think there is something up with Sam, and I so don't want him to be Sookie's HEA, it would be quite tragic to me if he died.  I guess, like Sookie, I've relied on him just being around?

So this Shaman role could possibly tie her to the pack whether she realizes it or not. I'm thinking he's tricked her somehow.

Yes, that's what I am thinking.  

Add to that CH has said that in this book Alcide does something "very, very bad" (I think she used 2 very's).

PLUS - she said that there is a way to break the Blood bond but it's "tricky" to do/write.

So when I put it all together - I'm thinking the Shaman issue plus the drug means - something's not right. Plus Alcide is never up front about his intentions.

Funny thing is - for the 1st time ever since being intro'd to Alcide - while reading this I felt it was the most upfront he's ever been b'c I thought to myself..."Well a drug is a drug & she knows it will mess her up - he told her the basics about what it is & why her wants her to take it so....how much worse can it get? For Alcide, that's pretty  clear."

But then when I thought about it, heard what else everyone was saying after the reading it & then hearing those 2 things CH said, I thought.. "uh-oh." 

Somewhere recently CH said that she knew the HEA for two of Sookie's suitors. Since we have four others besides Sookie's HEA, that leaves two up in the air, or two she hasn't settled on solutions for yet. I think that one of Sookie's suitors has to die, just for dramatic value. But I tend to think it might be Quinn since he seems so star-crossed. I think Sam will survive. I have a bunch of stuff I just wrote about Alcide and the pack and I'm going to move it to the DITF thread since it belongs there.

Add to that CH has said that in this book Alcide does something "very, very bad" (I think she used 2 very's).

If he did trick her, he may actually think he is helping her. He was at Sookie's house while Appius is there. Alcide may feel that helping her get away from Eric's crazy mess of a family is doing her good with the side benefit of being able to use her ability for his pack.

Kind of like asking for coffee with a side of eggs and sausage.

CH said that she knew the HEA for two of Sookie's suitors   

I hope Bill and Judith work out! Then that would leave Sam, Quinn and Alcide. Was Alcide considered an actual suitor? I think Sookie thought of him as a potential one at least before she shot Debbie.

He tricked her into coming to the meeting, knowing full well that he would con her into acting as shaman. He also knew it was a powerful drug, and he had no idea what it would do to her, considering her existing abilities. He didn't even know what was in it. What the right dose would be for a human female vs. a male Were. Or even if the drug was still safe or stable. That was very selfish and it put a good friend into quite a bit of danger, just giving her the drug alone. Then again, Weres are powerful and dangerous, and if Sookie revealed something bad, a Were could be at her throat before anyone could stop him.

All that's pretty bad on its own.

Was Alcide considered an actual suitor?

Not really. Not after Sookie killed Debbie. I think that ruined any possible chance at a relationship, not that it would actually amount to much. CH made a comment about Alcide not being interested in Sookie romantically anymore, which effectively rules him out (if he was ever in).

CH gave us a slight hint in DITF that he was still interested in Sookie. But really, both Alcide and Quinn are completely out of the running (as is Bill). However, I think Alcide still counts in the suitor sweepstakes, even if it is so completely unlikely. My question was which suitors was CH actually referring to.

Alcide still has an interest in Sookie, it's just not as strong as it was before and not as genuine.

I definitely think one of the suitors she was referring to was Bill. The other suitor is debatable.

All that's pretty bad on its own.

Your right! He never cares what kind of danger he puts her in. He left that body on her land, too. He's very selfish - even way back in CD when he ran off after she got staked.

Seems like he benefits more than Sookie from her friend of the pack status. Maybe in the next book Sookie will wise up and get good and pissed at him, although I doubt she will. Wonder if Alcide will survive the series.

Well for sure Eric and Sam will be in the running until the very end.  I think Quinn could be killed and Alcide will get a were girlfriend, isn't that what he has to have as the leader of the pack?

If he did trick her, he may actually think he is helping her.

Probably b'c he doesn't respect her enough to leave her to her own choices.

If Sam is in on it, I would think it's b'c Sam htinks he is helping her too. He has constantly throughout the series said he wants better for her & how he wished she wasn't involved in the vamp world etc..

They both have prejudices big time against vamps so - yeah I would think Alcide would definitely think he is being righteous in getting her out from under their thumb.

And I don't think it has anything to do w/Appius, I just think he would think anyone getting away from a vamp would be a good thing. Esp. if that vamp is Eric I imagine.

He is very much like Bill in so many regards.

Was Alcide considered an actual suitor?   

Naw. At least - not for me. He has barely been in the series. When he was intro'd - it seemed like a possibility but then we had DTTW & then what he did in DAAD - I was done with him for sure after DAAD.

Eric and Sookie already have a weakening BB at the end of DITF. Eric previously said that the stronger the BB the harder it will be for FDC to seperate them.

 I think FDC will try to force the BB to be broken when it is weak. Once that happens he will try to use Sookie (possibly craeting his own BB with her...which can prove the difference between her feelings for him and Eric). This can then give Eric an opportunity to prove his love and save her.

 Once they are reunited Eric and Sookie will be able to acknowledge their true love for each other and actually say "I love you" instead of "I love things about you."

what do you guys think?

I was also wondering if CH may be able to use the crazy vampire Thalia to kill Victor or somebody else. They introduced that character but did not really use her in any key plot points yet?

I thought Thalia would be used for something but alas she has yet to be. I was excited for her because she seems to like Eric and not very many other vamps. I hope CH does something cool with her otherwise I think she is wasted as just a side character.

just re-read the 10 book.... just wondering what was going to happen on the date eric said they would have 'no matter what' on the tuesday after the pack meeting monday, he said he was giong to buy her a gift 'even tho the marrige they already had is the only one that matters to him'.... does anyone think he is going to get her a ring?

I don't think he'll get her a ring. I think he knows that Sookie isn't ready for it yet.

maybe it will be another photo ; )

oooh I like the way you think Emmalee. I'm a hopeless romantic.

But the reality is that she won't even accept his vampire marriage to her, so he wouldn't think that a human marriage is what she wants right now.

I think part of the reason she won't accept the vamp marriage is that she thinks it was done for only political reasons, and also because she was tricked into it.  Like the BB, she had no choice in the matter.  If he were to show his commitment by going through the rituals of her culture, actually offer her a ring and ask her... I don't know, but I think it might touch her that he's offering, and who knows what she'd say in the heat of the moment.  She's never thought she would find someone who'd want that with her.  I think she would be very moved.

Love that you thought that LunarBunny, thats where i was going with too. who knows what she would say, i just thought to gesture would be nice even if it weren't a wedding band......

sorry I was in a rush.... hope you can make sense of what I wrote

Good morning guys.   I am re-reading DUD and when Gran dies and Jason gets pissed about Gran leaving Sookie all of her property, and she can't understand why she says "Why would Gran leave me all this?"  Bill's reply was "Maybe you'll find out later"...kind of leads me to believe that Dead Letters may be from Gran... Just a thought...

Good thought.

Thanks Laura.

Maybe while they (Claude & Sookie) clean out the attic, they stumble across letters from Gran's Fairy lover (on dead skin...yuk)-Niall's son (can't remember his name at the moment).

Not too sure what role Hunter will play in DL, but my thoughts are that he is really gifted (more so than Sookie) and maybe he can read the minds of some of the Supes better than Sookie can...not necessarily the Vamps (he couldn't read Heidi's mind)... Does anyone know if Hadley had any "gifts"? 

As for the BB being broken..I really hope that happens in DL.  I hate that Sookie doesn't know if whatever mood/feelings she is having are hers or Eric's.

Ohh so much to think about for a year until DL comes out...So glad I found this site to have people to discuss/dissect/speculate

Because Sookie is mortal and will age it would be a tough decision for her to marry a vampire who stays young and gorgeous forever. I know CH has already said it would go against Sookie's character for her to become a vampire...but maybe her grandfather has the power to prevent her from aging like the other fairies. I am holding out hope that CH will find a supernatural way for E and S  to stay together =) forever.

I also think that the letters coming from gran may be very plausible. She seems to know a lot more about the supernatural world then she has said.  The letters could have also well been form the grandfather himself and he left them in case of his death, he obviously cared about his family enough to protect them extensively for many years, so maybe there was magic left on them so they couldnt be found till he was dead, like a safety back up plan

CH also said that Sookie will live a normal lifetime.

man thats disappointing = (

".but maybe her grandfather has the power to prevent her from aging like the other fairies."

Didn't Niall ask Sookie several times if there was something that he could do for her? Maybe make Eric into a human again (OK that seems really far fetched, but so do weres & shifters)

I also agree with you that the Gran knew way more than she lead on about the Supernatural world.  I like the idea about the letters were left by the Grandfather.

OMG it's so clear to me now...After reading all the postings--Eric totally has to get married to someone else--that was the "unpleasant business" he was taking care of and that is why he told Sookie that she was his wife in the only way that mattered to him!  And Sookie is probably going to end up killing her the way she kills everyone's ex'es (as she claims).  And the letters have to be the grandmother's old love letters that explain that whole fairy affair!  they talk about cleaning out the attic too many times--they are setting us up for some big discovery up there...

sorry, was I supposed to introduce myself?  If so, please direct me where exactly!

haha yeah the mods ask that you introduce yourself on the "Official Introduce yourself Thread: What's Your Fave?" and to read the rules thread as well....i have no clue how to make those into links though!! haha sorry!

ile - here is the link to the Intro thread and the Forum Rules.

I do not think Eric will get married to someone else, anything is possible of course but that would be a complete lack of "control" on his part and i can not see him agreeing to it. As for his statement "that she was his wife in the only way that mattered to him" I think it was because that was his way of saying he loved her and chose to be with her even though she may not agree that it is a marriage.  

The unpleasant business may be related to people pressuring him to use Sookie because humans are supposed to be used by vampires to do their bidding. After all Sookie still has her own life where Barry on the other hand does not. Eric therefore must be under a lot of pressure from the powers that be to use her for their own means.

Does anyone know if there have been posts about the meaning of the curse the witch put on Eric?

There have been a lot of posts about it. Now that we have read DITF, I think the meaning of the curse was quite clear. He was near his heart's desire when he ended up on the road in front of Sookie. The amnesia would make it so he couldn't know she was his heart's desire (i.e. be near his heart's desire, but not realize it). However, their attraction was so strong he fell in love all over again with Sookie.

I don't think that Hallow's curse would automatically make him go to the one he loved, since heart's desire could have other meanings (like wealth or success or even vengence), and Hallow couldn't know that he was in love. But the curse was essentially designed to make it so that he would be denied his heart's desire despite it being right at hand. And we now know why he was barefoot and without his shirt, since that's how he dresses at home.

Now that I finished reading the short stories (and then re-reading parts of DITF) I think we're (hopefully) going to see Preston again.  Maybe Sookie will have a fairy family with a little fairy baby? It is suspicious that Claude is living with her.  Could Preston be involved somehow?  He may be as hot as Eric.

CH has said that Sookie is not pregnant from her encounter with Preston.

but maybe in a future relationship?...I haven't read all of the interviews with her so I don't know if she has ruled out Preston coming back into Sookie's life.

Sookie will end up with someone who was present in the first three books since that was when CH decided on Sookie's HEA. I can't remember the exact comment (and I hate being so vague), but essentially Preston was a one-shot deal and Sookie doesn't even remember it.

That's disappointing.  I wonder why there is a brief reference to him in DITF, then.  When she is in the park and she vaguely remembers an injured man in the woods?  Unless it wasn't referencing him...but I can't think of who else it would be.

And I wonder what Claude's motive is for staying with Sookie.

I think that the memory is obscured though and it won't be any more focused. I agree that bringing it up at all kind of confuses things. But maybe by saying she had a vague memory is a way to tell the readers that Sookie doesn't really remember.

My guess about Claude is that he was there just to protect Sookie from Colman and maybe Dermot.

There are others who have posted in this thread who think that Claude wants something from Sookie's attic, and frankly, he did act overly interested.

Thanks Ancient Pythoness =), I had thought they said that the part of the curse about being close to your hearts desire without knowing it was supposed to occur once and if the witch was killed? I think thats where I had been confused but I may have been mistaken.

Danielle, there is actually a thread that discusses the curse: Hallow Theory: Before DAG & After.

thanks ash marie that was really helpful  

Ancient Pythoness said: "Sookie will end up with someone who was present in the first three books since that was when CH decided on Sookie's HEA. I can't remember the exact comment (and I hate being so vague), but essentially Preston was a one-shot deal and Sookie doesn't even remember it."

So I am doing my thorough re-read of all the books and I am currently reading CD, on page 142 (paperback) Sookie says "And then we'll be happy ever after" and Alcide nodded. 

hmmm... maybe....

I suspect that Alcide is out of the running because of his pack duties.

I thought the same AP, until I re-read CD. I really really really want Sookie to have the HEA w/ Eric..

But the following books did paint Alcide in a darker light. The same way they did for Bill and even Quinn. I really want Eric as well. I only worry about Sam.

You worry about Sam? How so? As in maybe Sam is the HEA for Sookie?  I don't want that to happen.  They are much better friends.  Although they say the best relationships starts with a friendship, but I just don't see that happening.   I didn't like Sookie/Quinn together either.   Right now I am thinking its between Alcide & Eric.

Hm...I don't think we need worry about Sam. Sam is too boring! I think Charlaine Harris knows this. She's gotta be on Team Eric. LOL. She thought up the Gracious Plenty!

I think it's pretty safe to say Alcide is out of the running. I found that "happily ever after" line - especially now - very naive and immature.

There hasn't been much positive relationship development between Alcide and Sookie. And based on some recent comments by CH about not liking Alcide's character the more she writes him and some "devious" act he does in DITF, I don't think he's "the one."

She has also made a comment saying that Alcide isn't interested in a romantic relationship with Sookie (although it's obvious there is still a sexual interest, but that's as deep as it seems to be).

Thanks Ashmarie.  I don't keep up with CH's comments, just what I read on here.  Team Eric for sure.

Also, very happy that Bill has reconnected with his companion.

I also just re read book 2 and 3 and there are so many underlying hints about Eric and Sookies relationship that it seems like CH was really starting out a foundation for E/S relationship.

So far Eric is the only suitor who has not betrayed Sookies trust, he has always been upfront and honest and the beginning books show proof of love (beyond just attraction).  At one point in CD (during the scene where Sookie was being healed after she was staked) she said she had given her "will" to Eric which she had never done to anyone before. Then at the end of CD Eric payed for the new driveway without particularly getting anything in return at least not immediately or definitely. Sookie also says that Eric "gets her" humor which is why she likes him.

Sam even though loyal he has made poor dating decisions which has betrayed Sookies trust (the meanad for instance).

I know CH wants to keep us guessing but if Eric is not the HEA in the end then I think she has been a very big tease lol

That's so true. Throughout the series she's left all kinds of hints toward Eric as HEA. Just introducing Hunter was a big hint that Sookie isn't going to have children of her own (and CH has said as much in a few interviews). She has even said that Sookie's HEA isn't what she had originally wanted or may even deserve. Which sort of rules out Sam since he could give her a fairly normal marriage and children, which is what she originally wanted.

It's just that she hasn't done anything that really rules out Sam so far. And she did give Sam and Sookie some nice moments together in DITF. We will know more when DL does come out since we'll also have the novella with the wedding Sam is taking her to.

I hope CH explains in DL more about what makes Sookie "different" from others including

1) Why the vampires glow to her and look different

2) Why is she a telepath (because it is not from her Fairy side supposedly) and what is the differences between her telepathic abilities and Hunters telepathic abilities

3) Is she immune to all magic (magical null as discussed in the other thread)

4) What is up with her selective hearing of Vampires particularly of Eric (and is there extra significance for that)

5) Is she part psychic (which she already theorized herself)

In my mind, Eric is Sookie's HEA, there is no other possibility. I just don't see Sookie growing old next to an ever young Eric - I know some people here see the romance in that, I don't. I am soooo intrigued by Sookie contemplating being a vampire in DITF that I hope that CH will go back on her words... For me, things CH has said in the past is not gospel!

And Danielle, I would LOVE for CH to answer those questions in DL!!!! Post them on her site and say that's what you want from her, who knows, it may trigger some ideas for her since she's still writing DL!

"And then we'll be happy ever after" and Alcide nodded.  

He's not in the series enough. I mean look at how many books are centered around Eric & we all don't think there's eough of his character 1/2 the time as it is (except for DTTW).

There isn't enough audience connection with Alcide. Esp. as he's been so douchey. DITF - case in point. 

Unless CH miraculously writes a lot of Alcide being in the next few books & we see he has had a major character implant - I don't think it'll happen.  

Yes CH says ultimately it's her world & she can do what she likes & that's true -  but this is a series & a tightly written, good series needs to have continuity w/the progression.

I do think DITF has shown some major progression so hopefully in Dead Letters - that will only get amped up now that Sookie seems to be a bit more bad ass & accepting of her world/life.

IMO there is continuity & progression w/Alcide & Sookie but only showing his continual use of her & his becoming Alpha.  Other than that - he still seems weak of character to me. Nah.
 

I do not think I would want Sookie to become a vampire, especially after Eric has said many times that it is taboo for vampire-vampire relationships. This is a supernatural world so there may be some other way to allow them to be together.

Couldn't the attic be the fairy portal? No one knows where it is at and that would explain Gran getting it on with a fairy.

That would be kind of "Narnia-like"!  I wonder if she has a big ole wardrobe up there?!!  lol

Actually, I kind of got the feeling listening to CH in an interview that she was surprised that everyone wanted to know what's in the attic. Like she hadn't been planning anything, but people wanted it so she'd take them in there.  Of course, she's big on misdirection, but in the interview I remember thinking  "Really?  Oh, crap!"  It didn't seem like she had any big reveal planned.

Couldn't the attic be the fairy portal?

That would be cool but then Coleman etc... wouldn't have to wait in her woods to Ambush her.  

Again, I didn't get the impression that CH had anything big planned to reveal in the attic, but... maybe it could be a private portal.  One only for the immediate family?  Niall closed all the others, but this one remains open and only has access within his palace, or grounds?  That's why Claude's so determined to live in the house?  I love the idea of this, just not so confident CH has it intended.

if it's a portal, does anyone think she could actually go to fae?

That's an interesting idea. I wonder if it would be safe for her.

it would definitely be interesting. i don't know if that's too out there though...?

while i was reading dead to the world there was one line about fairies that stuck out to me... on page 183 soft cover version one of the characters said that 'fairies love to flirt with disaster, and they love to role play'. at the time sookie didnt know she was part fairy, but looking in retrospect this description suites sookie's many adventures . i wonder what else we will learn about fairies in the books to come...and this piece of information is important to know about claude and dermont's personalities.

btw sorry for my grammar  errors but the shift key on my laptop is not working

I don't think there's a portal as there's already one right outside of the house in the forest, it wouldn't make sense to have two... no?

I also think there is one in forest outside the house, not in the attic. That's where all the action is. However, Niall did poof out once right in the house. I guess poofing is unrelated to portals.

yeah i thinkk poofing is unrelated...unless Sookie has a portal in her car too

I love it that the word "poofing" is in our vocab!

I have a few theories on DL:
1. In DAG Niall says to Sookie that the house has powerful magic surrounding it and that the only reason he was able to come and go is because he's been there before. Sookie automatically attributes the powerful magic to Amelia's wards. I think the wards help, but I don't think Niall was talking about Amelia's magic. Also, Niall didn't say when he was there before in that convo. In an earlier convo in FDTW at the restaurant He tells Sook that he saw Gran when she was young and beautiful when Fintan got her pregnant. Ding-ding-ding! hello Sookie organize those conversations girlie! I think it was Fintan's magic that kept them all safe for so long. Something he gave Gran, maybe letters between the 2 of them and Claude is on a fact finding mission to discover the source of the magic.

2. There is still a whole lot that we (and Sookie) don't know about Sam. Dr. Ludwig mentions to in DAG that Sam always seems to know everything that goes on in the supe community, but in DITF he doesn't know his gf is Alcide's LT? Then there is Gran and Sam's relationship. Sam and Gran (according to Sookie's observation) always had a comfortable/friendly relationship and Sam knew his way around her house. I think Sam and Gran knew exactly what each other were. There is something else that bothers me, in CD when Sookie tells Sam that she's going to Jackson with Alcide, Sam makes it a point to say something to Alcide over the phone. Was it a threat? A warning that she is under the protection of someone or something higher than the vamps? Or that Sam would and could turn himself into a Lion and tear Alcide limb from limb? There's still a lot of question marks for Sam. Are the Dead Letters between Sam and whoever he is close to>> like maybe FDC? Sam knew A LOT about FDC in FDTW and that kind of bothered me too. For someone that doesn't get involved with supe or vamp politics he sure knew the skinny on FDC. And like Eric said, FDC's take over had to be approved by a commitee and it took time. Isn't TX in the same vamp clan as say NV? I'm not trying to make Sam a bad guy, but I'm not as trusting as Sookie the perpetual DD (Damsel in Distress), but hey that's me.

3. Gran! So many things point back to Gran it's crazy!!!! That lady was a wealth of knowledge, she was sly and cunning in her own right; a fighting little firecracker to the bitter end. Why is it taking so long for Sookie to realize that Gran holds the keys to A LOT of info that may save her life? Sookie is more distracted by other things and people than she realizes. I think that Amelia's little hint about Sookie doing more self-examination is another clue to Sookie actually doing some research into her family history. Gran and Fintan, Gran and Mr. Norris, Gran and Sam, Gran and Grandpa Stackhouse, Gran and Bill, Gran and the Hale side of her family. And Sookie assumes that Gran didn't know about Hadley being a vamp, you know what happens when you assume? Maybe the Dead Letters are between Hadley and Gran. There is another thing that just popped into my head... Sookie never attempted to read Gran's mind, she automatically assumed that she COULD. I think Sook needs to stop assuming. She may have got her telepathy from GRAN! That little quirk may have been what made her so irresistable to Fintan. You see how Supes flock around Sook, well hello Niall said that Gran was a hottie and Fintan was damn near obsessed with her.

sookie_lover: Bitten Weres are turned by what - saliva? Just yucked myself out thinking there was saliva in the drink.
I don't think it could be saliva because Sook kissed Alcide, and Sam, and Quinn and QUinn cleaned her scrape in DAD with his tongue. ICK!

Sam as evil would be a twist that no one would see coming. I don't know if CH would come up with that.

Hey guys, just so you know, there's some speculation on Sam and what he does and doesn't know, and his intentions good or otherwise, on the Novella: "Small Town Wedding" Speculation thread, too.  Worth a read; they're fun!  

I don't think it could be saliva because Sook kissed Alcide, and Sam, and Quinn and QUinn cleaned her scrape in DAD with his tongue.

Well, I don't think she would get it from kissing a shifter/Were in human form. And it would be weird for Sookie to make out with animals.

When Jason was turned in DTTW, the werepanther (whose name I can't remember) would change into a panther and bite him every night. They have to be in their shifter form in order to turn someone else. Maybe it's like snake venom and the "shifter juice" comes out of their teeth/fangs? That would explain why a person would need to be bitten.

That's true!  I remember that when Sookie was nicked by the teeth of either Jackson or the other were contesting for pack leader in the cage, Quinn was concerned enough - and let's face it, horny enough - to take her tights off and lick the wounds clean.  If Quinn licking her wounds in human form was considered cleaning, then he couldn't have been in danger of turning her by putting his saliva in the scratches.

Why didn't Sam know that Claudine died.   He seems to know everything how did that slip by him?

The fae have always been the most secretive of the supernatural creatures. You basically need the right connections in order to know certain things about them. They also have their own world that is entirely separate from the one the other supernaturals reside in. Sam not knowing about Claudine being dead makes sense. That information wouldn't be widely broadcasted in the information channels where he gets his usual scoop.

Unlike Lochlan and Neave, she wasn't a very well known casualty. Her death wouldn't have that much meaning to the greater supernatural community.

I understand that now, thanks

And it would be weird for Sookie to make out with animals.
hahahahahaha that visual is hard to come back from, so funny! Can not stop laughing.

Claude is on a fact finding mission to discover the source of the magic.  
this is an intersting idea.   

Hi, Im new to this and have introduced my self on the ''introduce yourself thread'' I'm a bit late adding a comment but I just felt the need to say I hope so much that Eric is sookies HEA!! I cant imagin him with anyone else (other than me)

Also as Im from the UK Ive just found out through this site that there was going to be more books!!!  how did you all find out? and is the next book def going to be called DL??

As I said im a bit late...sorry

CH has mentioned the number of books she's signed for in several interviews. So far it will be 13, thus three more books with the next one called DL. She's said she'll decide if she wants to write more than 13 some time while writing DL. But she has said she'd rather bow out before running out of ideas. Frankly, I do think she's running dry and should stop. And if she does keep on going, she should resolve the love interest since Sookie's dithering on that is getting tedious.

Thanks, I havent seen any of the interviews and I do agree that doing more after these 13 might be a little to much. Sookie can only find trouble so many times! and she def needs to sort out her HEA!

The whole HEA issue has become irritating since she has had to keep us in suspense with tedious complications in order to drag out something that could have been resolved a long time ago. Perhaps in ATD or FDTW.

Unfortunately, TB is making her so much money from book sales that she might be tempted to hang on. It wouldn't be that she couldn't think up Sookie stories, but at what deficit in quality.

If she does continue, she should churn one out every 6months, this 1yr waiting period makes it even more frustrating when you read and there's still not a great advancement in the HEA dept!

Yeah I agree the thing is if her HEA was Eric she could continue writing as being with Eric will casue dramas so the books wont be boring but anyone else being her HEA i guess will end the books.

I hope DL will be as good as all the other books!

CH said in a recent interview that Sookie's HEA is not connected to herl love life, or woth who sh'll end up....so i presume that her love life could have been reselved but we don't know yet actually...becouse of marketing issue. But we should start separate her HEA from her love life....

ooohhhh.. I havent seen any interviews so im just going from what ive on here. its just fustrating not knowing! (inpatient)  It is really going to be year untill the DL comes out? I live in the UK so I'll have to wait longer!!...

This is the recent comment:

Interviewer:I was at the RT Booklovers' Convention in Columbus earlier this year, where you caused a bit of a ruckus when you hinted that your books probably wouldn't end with a "happily ever after" ending. Can you clarify what you meant by that? Will Sookie Stackhouse have a happy ending?  

CH: I don't write absolutes. I don't write the kind of "happily ever after" that romance readers enjoy. I'm not saying that "happily ever afters" are a bad thing, and I'm not saying Sookie will never be happy ... but she's not going to settle down and start a family and have the white picket fence.

I don't take that to mean that Sookie's love life will be separate from her HEA, but rather it meant to me that she wouldn't be settling down to a typical home and children. Frankly, if she ended up with Sam (or even Alcide or Quinn) she could have that, so it meant that Sookie would end up with a vamp. And since Bill is out of the running (per AB she had originally planned to kill Bill in DAG--you don't kill the HEA), that narrowed things down considerably.

CH has known who Sookie will end up with since LDID or CD (depending on which interview you read). So, Sookie does indeed end up with someone. CH has also stated that Sookie's HEA wouldn't be what she had originally thought she wanted. Again, meaning the white picket fence and children which Sookie has seemed to want. She's also said that Sookie wouldn't be having children of her own. She said it twice recently and once last year. In fact, that's why I'm sure Hunter was added to the story (which was the end of FDTW). By the end of FDTW, Eric was the last viable suitor.

Now, I suspect that Eric will end up as King of Louisiana. This idea was a popular fan idea, but I wasn't sure CH would go that way. DITF seems to indicate that is the direction the books are heading since a vamp political struggle is brewing. Being married to a vamp king isn't exactly a typical romance novel HEA with a white picket fence and children.

Thanks so much! That all totally makes sense! and i agree with the way you have put it!  the whole Hunter idea im guessing would be to replace the fact that sookie wont have childern of her own but will have the chance to have a child in her life and nope being married to a vamp king is not a typical romance novel!  

I've decided to correct something I just said. I stated that Eric was the last suitor standing at the end of FDTW, but actually Sam's always been on a back burner, and he was actually part of the plot in FDTW, which was only true in two other books (DUD and DAAD). He was part of the plot in DAG, by not being present. And then DITF made me start worrying about him with all those quiet scenes Sookie had with him. So that recent comment by CH made me feel very happy. Sam would definitely give Sookie a white picket fence and children.

Sam would definitely give Sookie a white picket fence and children.

And a dog! And Jane Bodehouse!

I don't know why I can't get my head around Sookie, being mortal, vulnerable, etc.. ending-up with Eric - I want them to be together 4ever, I just find the idea of CH letting Eric choose Sookie obscene/sadistic if she is in fact to live a normal human life span. I've tried to listen (read) to what various posters have written about this being a good outcome but I can't rationalize it in my head, I find it absolutely tragic: to watch the love of your life slowly grow old and die when you know you could prevent that?? What awul prison will Eric's heart be in! For me that's a HEA (Hell Ever After)!

@ Ancient Pythoness there is a video i think in the thread of CH where she was talking with a girl, an Eric fans btw, and she said that her HEA is not connected to Sookie's love life.

She said that she doesn't bother that much about that becouse for her HEA is something else and not with who Sookie will end up.

I wonder how long Sookies life span is actually supposed to be. She has an eighth of fairy blood which should give her an extended life, definitely past the average life span. Niall her great grandfather is after all is well into the 1,000's, and her father who also had fairy blood did not live long enough to see any fairy blood life span impact. Her great uncle Dermont is also fairly old at this point but still looks like he is in his 20's (the same age as Jason) and he is only half fairy.

Good point, but apparently, CH has said that Sookie will live a normal life span.  However, we all know how cryptic CH can be, so who knows what she means by "normal".  Normal for a human, for a fairy... for a fairy/human?

Just a thought:  a poor girl marrying a prince or king is a typical romance story ending, it's just that fact that he's a vampire and everyone around them is homicidal that's the twist.

That's what always bugged me about CH's statement on Sookie's normal life span - it is completely inconsistent with what information she has given us on fairy/part fairy lifespans! I secretly hope she's lying to us so as to keep the suspense going...

Yeah, the twist is that everyone around E/S is homicidal, marrying Eric will give Sookie the life expectancy of a moth!

On the HEA issue, I just think CH is splitting hairs. CH doesn't want to feel that Sookie's future happiness is predicated solely on her love life, since that is a old fashioned way of thinking. To CH, the term HEA is settling down with children and white picket fence. So she doesn't think that it applies to Sookie. Thus to CH, HEA would be separate from Sookie's love life.

However, just going by the way CH mentioned the white picket fence and kids as defining a traditional HEA, it shows she is still thinking love life (whether she admits it or not). Because how Sookie resolves her love life would dictate whether she had the picket fence or not (i.e. children with Sam, or no children with Eric). I'm going to assume that CH means that Sookie's happiness isn't solely dependent on her love life, and that Sookie's HEA won't be a traditional one. Frankly, as fans, when we refer to HEA, we really just mean who she ends up with, anyway.

Frankly, as fans, when we refer to HEA, we really just mean who she ends up with, anyway.

Thats a good way of summing it up!  

so I am re-reading DAG right now and noticed that on page 18 (soft cover version) Sookie is wondering about what her grandmother really knew and why she didn't tell her, as well as why Sookie couldn't read that in her mind. Sookie even says at one point "There is just no way she could've packed those events away for good in some attic of her mind."...."It had crossed my mind to go through my grandmothers things in search of some clue to her thinking, to her reaction to this extraordinary passage in her life, and then I would think why bother?" ...Sookie then speculates about her telepathy not coming form her fairy blood but something else entirely.

This passage seems like it could be major foreshadowing for book 11, and the only reason (IMO) that it was not in book 10 was because CH is trying to draw out the series to fit it in the 13 books.

I am extremely curious to find out what CH comes up with (or if she comes up with) an explanation for the telepathy. I also am really curious about the grandmother ..especially because she was picked by fintan, and I doubt it was only because he found her to be beautiful, ..how did he find her? And why was the portal so close to the Stackhouse's house? and wouldnt other fairies have found them sooner especially Niall who was looking for them?

All really great points!  It makes me wonder, with the wording of Sookie's thoughts, if Gran is part some other kind of supe?  Maybe that's why her thoughts were unreadable to Sookie, and also could be the source for her telepathy.

"There is just no way she could've packed those events away for good in some attic of her mind.".

I have also just started re-reading DAG and thought that sentence was interesting as well. And with everyone talking about Sookie possibly cleaning out the attic! It seems to fit! So glad you posted that!  

 And why was the portal so close to the Stackhouse's house? and wouldnt other fairies have found them sooner especially Niall who was looking for them?

I was thinking the same thing, anyone got any idea on that?  

  CH is trying to draw out the series to fit it in the 13 books.

Thats more likely the reason being why DITF didnt have much going on! and seamed to just be putting together a few loose ends instead of having Sookies typical entertaining dramas like in the other books. I just hope DL can make up for that !   

I think book 11 (Dead Letters), will be about some kind of interaction with Fairies again. The reasoning behind this is that in book 10 (Dead in the Family) when Sookie received the letter from Niall it was written on the skin of the dead water sprites who killed her parents and when Sookie remarked that the letter had been written on skin, Claude said "what else would Niall write on?"

Someone ^ visited again. I copied from the Niall thread...

a close contact of her book reports

what the heck does that mean, anyway?

Where was her original comment. I couldn't find it...

Don't sweat it, Mari.  This poster is a suspected troll.  We have speculated perhaps even a kid.  Just ignoring it is probably the best policy.

408 duckpond100 2010-07-20 07:05

Sam has a love interest in the next book.

The problem with having such a huge cast of characters is that I can't always find a good reason to bring back characters I'd like to revisit.

Charlaine Harris

Jannalyn??? duh!

It's possible he has a new love interest. Sam and Jannalyn didn't seem too "together" by the end of DITF. And if you are dating someone you won't even take home to meet your mom, something is wrong. If he is still with her in the next book, he is a bigger idiot than I thought. Which is saying something...

That's what I'm trying to figure out. Jannalynn is hardly a keeper.

I just hope whoever it is doesn't spark jealousy in Sookie to the point she feels she is love with him.  Necrophilia... fine. Beastiality... that's just wrong.

Kimberly, I like your idea about Luna for Sam. He could meet her when he goes to his sister's wedding.

Ooo yeah, I forgot that she is in Texas, huh. She was sweet and smart and Sookie really liked her.  Too good to be true maybe, but we'll see!

I really like it when things come full circle, or at least tie in some characters that appeared early on in only one book.  Luna's appearance was short, but sweet.  She had guts, a sense of humour and I liked her.  Great idea!

SPOILER

In the next book Eric does ask Sookie to seriously consider turning vampire.
C.Harris Comic Con 2010

Bubba will be in the next Sookie book!

SPOILER

Well, we all know what her answer will be if CH has been truthful and hasn't changed her mind... and yay for Bubba!

i think is a good thing that Eric talks about this with her..in book 10 Sookie seriously starts to consider this idea but she evem thougth that Eric wouldn't spend his eternity with her...now he is the one talking about this (and he has no idea Sookie already made this consideration) so she should be relieved that he really wants her no matter what....

But for Eric a Vampire Sookie is even less problem, not worry always for her, not think about who want to kill her or kidnapp her....

Sookie and Eric act like a married couple without even know it....

At least we know that Eric and Sookie are still together in the next book.

I know that CH has said that Sookie will not become vampire. BUT she has also said that she has to come up with something for the books, which means that she has no definitive story in mind.  Maybe, if she is writing as the muse hits her, she thinks that the story is leading that Sookie will indeed become vampire.  And if she did it, and really thought about it, she might be able to get a spin off series of books that would not just be dragging out one concept.....  just a thought.  Maybe she has changed her mind.

I always love reading about Vampire Sookie in the fanfics. 

I love Vamp Sookie in FFs too!

I wrote this in the CH thread but will write it here too: This is most definitely wishful thinking on my part, but could CH be telling us that Sookie will never become Vampire so as not to ruin who she will end-up with and as a result, her next 3 books?? Maybe Sookie will have a rule that since she'll end-up looking after Hunter, she won't consider being turned until he's 18. That could be a really good way to end the books...

I'm glad Bubba will be back.  I think I must be the only one who doesn't want Sookie to be a vampire.  IMO it's way too much to give up, even for Eric.  If he truly loves her, he'll understand that being human is who she is.

The way I've heard CH explain it (at a signing awhile back) Sookie is only 1/8 fairy, so that isn't enough to effect her lifespan.  She'll live as long as a normal human lives.  Her telepathy has nothing to do with her fae blood.

Will Sookie choose flea dips with Sam over showers with Eric? Will Sookie become a vampire?  Will Eric decide to stay with her as she ages and meet the sun when she dies? Will Eric get a chance to become human?  Stay tuned for the answer to these and other questions on "Days of our Deaths"

Lol!  Yeah, it is a bit like that, isn't it?

IMO it's way too much to give up, even for Eric.  If he truly loves her, he'll understand that being human is who she is. 

Well, IDK, I can see both sides of the argument.  It would be truly romantic and have a lot of pathos to see Eric stand by Sookie as she ages and dies a normal death - I envision a lot of weeping and heartbreaking on my part if that happens.  On the other hand, Eric was human too.  They all were human before they were changed.  The difference is they weren't given a choice and didn't have something to make the choice for in most cases.  (BTW I know CH has said Sookie won't turn vamp.  THis is just conjecture)  Yes, it's a lot to give up, but it's also a lot to gain.  I think their relationship would have to be a lot more settled and established before she could make a choice like that.  She'd have to know in her soul that he and their relationship meant more to her than the air she breaths, the sunlight on her skin - she'll lose those things eventually.  It's just a matter of how soon and if she has any preconceptions about salvation etc.

Would I do it?  It's a really interesting thing to ponder!

C'mon Liann. Eternity of sex with Eric? C'mon...

LOL - this is demented peer pressure, no?

All the cool kids are doing it .. wait, no, actually it would just be Sookie ... maybe...  lol

I'd do it! I am such a curious person, I'd find it so hard not to do it... "Curiosity may have killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back."

I love that quote lol

It's one of my all time faves!!!

IDK... I think CH gave us a little hint on how she is going to resolve the aging issue for Sook when she introduced the fact that Sookie's fae essence had strengthened because she had been around fae for awhile.

pg 53-55 ( I really wish I got DITF on my kindle, but I couldn't wait a week longer! )

Claude: "Sookie, I can't stay in our house by myself any longer, Can I bunk with you for a while, Cousin?"

Sookie: "Claude,... have a seat. What's wrong?" "You're still living in the house you shared with your sisters?"

Claude: "Yes."

Sookie: "The bars aren't keeping you occupied?"

Claude: "I'm busy. And I don't lack for money. But without the company of my own kind... I feel I'm starving."

Sookie: "Are you serious?"... "Do I have enough fairy in me to be any help to you?"

Claude: "Yes. I already feel better. Since You've been in the company of fairies, it's accentuated your streak of fairy essence..."

Even Bill tells her that he fairy blood has strengthened when he's trying to get her to sleep with him. Maybe because she had Claude and Dermot with her now it will help her heal quicker and rejuvenate her in a lot of ways she hadn't expected and lengthen her lifespan. Look at Dermot and Fintan; Niall mentioned to Sookie in one of their 20-million question sessions that Fintan was about 700 years old and he was 1/2 fae, so Sook could make it to 100-120 maybe.

It is a nice theroy, and one I really like however CH said many times that Sookie will live a normal human lifespan. Maybe she is lying but why lie about that.

There is no telling what CH is really going to do. I liked DITF, but it was very lacking, and my husband was just outright disappointed with it. There was a point in DITF where Sookie starts questioning whether or not she wants to keep her mortality when she feels the aches and pains of getting older and she wouldn't have to endure it if she let Eric turn her. Then she thought about having to watch all the people around her that she loved die and Eric probably would run for the hills if she asked him to turn her. I think CH is (Trying to) keeping us on our toes and guessing.

Hey Nena, nice to see you here again. I know Sookie won't become a vamp and most likely won't live to a truly non-human age. But I remember one of my first questions on this forum was in reference to CH mentioning that Sookie might age more gracefully. It wasn't a promise that it would happen, but more like admitting it was possible. Laura efficiently referred me to the exact reference that I had somewhat forgotten.

I think it was finally time for Sookie to reflect for herself whether she wants to become a vamp at some point or not. I mean... she's dealing with vampires for 10 books now? Who wouldn't play "what-if" in her head, especially after having 2 relationship with vamps? I know a lot of stuff happens off-page, which annoys me often, but i felt her inner dialogue was long overdue. I still believe she won't become a vamp either... isn't it stressed a few times in the books that even 2 vamps won't stay together for long (in that context, i always assumed for me long means roughly a human life span)? Children not staying with their makers, nests breaking up?

Judy!!!! I don't Sookie would turn vamp either. But who knows, it could be an accident (re: Amelia's warning and the curious case of Solomon Brunswick). CH is going to stretch this out and keep us swaying in the wind.

Regardless of how the books ends, my personally edited version will have Sookie deciding to have Pam turn her right after the last page. That way it avoids the maker/child problem. And if Pam ever gave Sookie a hard time, Eric would be on her case.That's like my picturing Rhett Butler turning around at the end of the walk and carrying Scarlett back up those stairs. I know they did something like that in the awful sequel. I never paid any attention to it.

I think Sookie will a longer time and be healthier because of all the vamp blood she's had and the more to come.  Like she said she hasn't had a cold or anything like being sick.  She heals faster too.  Plus the fairy blood must help a bit.  Her aunt didn't have vamp blood or been surrounded by any fairies to help her.

I know I can't see her living a normal amount of time. I think if CH does that it won't really fit or make sense logically.

I think we have a habit of looking at it from a logic base but it's CH's own private mythos (like ie Stephanie Meyers vamp mythos, Anne Rice vamp mythos), and she's going to do whatever she wants. Logically it would stand to reason that Sookie would have a longer than normal human existence because of her fae heritage and semi-routine vamp-blood ingestion. I do my best to support my logic with cannon, but CH has a habit of flipping the script in the interviews she gives.

I never, ever, ever felt that Sookie should be a vampire. I just coudln't see it happening & or feeling like by the end of the series -  that it would be authentic to the character.

However - after the last book, I not only could totally see it, kinda want to. Sookie as a vampire would be seriously interesting to me. I would so read Sookie as a vamp books now I think. Oh...I feel like I am having deja-vu. I think I may have said this once before. If I have - sorry!

IMO it's way too much to give up, even for Eric.

Screw freakin' Eric.

Who gives a crap.  Seriously, b'c if I was Sookie at this point & have been -  orphaned, molested, ostracized my entire life by my own peeps, manipulated, maneuvered, beaten more times than I could count, raped, betrayed often, almost killed/ attempts on my life more times than I could count & then seriously tortured by sadistic fairies to the point where my body looked like swiss cheese & I had to take vamp blood in order to get some semblance of it back again? 

If I wanted to continue living - I'd give it up in a shot. I'd be so sick & tired of not being strong enough to stand more of a fighting chance.

More so if  my Master would be Eric or Pam. They know me, love me, respect me,  think I would make a great vampire, I'd be an asset as well  so  those are odds I would play b'c I know would help me. Plus, they already know my need for independence.
 

 If he truly loves her, he'll understand that being human is who she is. 

 I think that's already been established. Hence their convo in in DAG.

However,  that's not to say he won't still try to get her to agree to turn.  Just b'c you understand something doesn't mean you have to like it or that your just going to give up.  People do it all the time.

And he just probably thinks that in time, the more they're together, she'll eventually change her mind so he'll keep checking in every once in a while.

I fully expect his character to ask her again. Not only is he persistent, he loves her, values her & a whole bunch of other reasons I could list but won't b'c it's redundant ....I'd know I would be nagging too.

And he's just asking, not actually doing w/out her consent. Two very different things.

think CH gave us a little hint on how she is going to resolve the aging issue for Sook when she introduced the fact that Sookie's fae essence had strengthened because she had been around fae for awhile. 

I like this theory a lot.

CH said many times that Sookie will live a normal human lifespan. Maybe she is lying but why lie about that. 

I can see how CH could say this, still have Sookie be "something" & actually not be lying.  Sookie does live a normal human lifespan but doesn't age. Then once that lifespan is over - she turns into something..vamp, fairy, angel, cougar, whatever..

My theory is that CH will not have Sookie turned in the books, but since it is only 13 books that it will be a thing that happens after the end of the series.  So it leaves it open.  I hope that sounded like I meant it to sound.

I know this is waaaaaay out there but sometimes I find myself reading the books like Sookie is telling the story of her life as it was already lived. Sometimes it seems she may be retelling things posthumously.  So it will end with her being in the Sumerlands or something like that.  I don't know. I told you it is waaaaay out there.

I was a big Christopher Pike fan as a teen and I think I am mixing one of the themes of his books and trying to meld it to the Sookie books. 

It's not really out there. Sometimes, I feel the same way. Like we are getting the story once she is dead.

my favorite end would be a 'realistic' HEA for E and S at the end of book 13... both together, her human, him vamp and some place up in the vamp hierarchy. Even though i love the books, i wouldn't want them to be dragged out even more now. I mean... the story of 9 and 10 was basically only 1 book, maybe not even a full one.

What would be fun though would be a new series, AFTER their HEA. I wouldn't mind Eric to turn her then, seeing it as another book series with new contents. That way, CH could stay true to her promise AND keep on writing (*cough* cashin in*cough) E/S without running dry.

(*cough* cashin in*cough) E/S without running dry.

LOL!  you've got it spot on, Silke!

Sookie is telling the story of her life as it was already lived. Sometimes it seems she may be retelling things posthumously.  

Yeah, I could actually see that, too.

I always had the feeling of that too.  It was like a diary (Without the dates);  of her life with the supernatural community.

Could it be that Sookie goes to the Fae world (as her HEA)  because that is the only place that she will be safe and is corresponding with Hunter or another mentee about what she went through as a supe in the human world? All the books seemed purposely out dated, ie the hideous clothes, and that seems like a reason for it.

if it's in that way book 10 could tell us that she is still seeing Eric becouse when she went at his house CH wrote using the perfetc past but when Sookie saw Eric she describes him using the present....XD

Btw even Anita Blake or Cat and Bones are in this way so sometimes is just the writer's style, but it could be that she is writing as an old lady..XD

Laura, loved your post! I 100% agree! You know how miffed I am about CH's inconsistencies, I don't believe a word that woman says to fans/press! She will do as she pleases, no logic to it, no concern with going back on her word.

I find myself reading the books like Sookie is telling the story of her life as it was already lived.

Very cool theory. Never thought of that.. now I have go back and reread all of the books to see how the theory fits. (And I thought I finally had got myself weaned off rereading my Sookie Stackhouse books.)

The fae theory is also very cool... one thought there is that going to the fae world would be kind of like running away. And Sookie is scrappy, more like the stand up and fight kind of person. Do you think she would choose to hide herself in the fae world? And the fae world wouldn't necessarily be safe either. (Remember Colman)

My theory fits at times but then when she is explaining what she has to do in the future she uses words like "tomorrow" which would make it present time.  So it is a pretty thin theory but don't let me stop you from re reading the series!

I don't believe a word that woman says to fans/press! She will do as she pleases, no logic to it, no concern with going back on her word.

Totally. That's why I always have this nagging feeling that she might just flip and totally take out Eric from the HEA running. Sniff.

And it feels like she's taunting the fans sometimes. Like she enjoys to see us suffer. Like what she's doing, being "mean" to Sookie. Mean, mean girl.

... both together, her human, him vamp

When CH said that Sookie will never be a vampire, I was thinking that she couldn't be turned even if she wanted to be, because she has fae blood.

Well Hadley has the same blood as Sookie (just not the essential spark, right?). SA made her a vamp, so technically, it should be possible Shema

Of course, Silke you are right.  I shouldn't post late at night.

ideally I would like Eric to give up his job in politics in an attempt to keep Sookie out of danger, then they move to Wyoming where there are only a handful of vampires. Sookie would somehow adopt Hunter because of some other plot twist and she will live a longer then average life because of her fae blood (or because her great grandfather has the magic to make it so). I would also like to finally discover the meaning of the telepathy ...I theorize that it is part of some other magical supe which was the reason for her grandfathers attraction to her grandmother in the first place.

Has CH ever said she would explain the origins of the telepathy?

I don't think so. All we do know is the part about it being unrelated to fae blood.

Most fiction is told in the past tense, even if it is relating things that just happened or are happening as we read them. In fact, present tense stories always sound somewhat awkward. I think Sue Grafton just did her latest mystery in present tense, and it annoyed the hell out of me. In the example you posted above, it was really just an example of summing up the experience she was having. She didn't really need to retell every blade of grass or clump of bushes she was climbing, so she gave representative examples what happened as she went along. That was just background summary exposition instead of a ongoing narrative of every step. After finishing the summary exposition, it shifted back into current action.

Sometimes, authors trip up over their tenses, even when they are supposedly all in past tense. Occasionally, CH has said things that seemed to be making sweeping statements about how Sookie would feel the rest of her life (i.e. future perfect tense), but to me it just seemed to be a voice/POV slip-up (i.e. sloppy writing/grammar resulting in an author intrusion). In other words, CH knows how Sookie would feel the rest of her life, but Sookie doesn't.

I haven't really gotten a vibe that the stories are being told in retrospect in her old age, but I can see how these few slip-ups would make others interpret it that way. All first person stories have a somewhat diary-like aspect to them, but that doesn't necessary mean that it is being read years later. Actually, it just means we are riding along inside the head of the protagonist, but past tense is the preferred narrative approach.

Thanks that helps me understand it alot more! I Just a few things that make you think that way, im so going to get that idea out of my head and blame it on CH's writing lol!

it just seems to me that in book 10 sookie and sam is getting really close, so might there be something there? so might there bw something going on there? or is CH gonna keep them friends? but i think they should really bring Quinn back...the reason which sookie broke up with him on was kinda unsatifactory, and he is right in DAG, that she will not expect eric to give up fangtasia, why should she expect him to give up his family? it just seems that sookie or CH really wanted get break that relationship just to form a new one for sookie and eric...

I don't think Quinn made a fair comparison. His family is a burden, she would always have come in second. Eric's business holdings are not the same as a crackpot family. In fact, if Appius and Alexei hadn't died, they may have been too much of a burden for a sustainable relationship for Sookie. Quinn was never around anyway. His business kept him on the road.

it just seems that sookie or CH really wanted get break that relationship just to form a new one for sookie and eric...

I don't think that eric and sookies relationship formed after Sookie broke up with Quinn. In fact, I think their relationship is much stronger and deeper and was (at least in the beginning) stages of being formed long before Quinn even entered the picture.  I thought that CH did a really nice job writing out what every girl goes through with men.. thinking they want one thing, and then realizing that all along they wanted another. Quinn was just a "stepping stone" so to speak, so that she could learn what she did and didn't want out of a relationship before moving on with Eric.

On that same note... if Eric and Sookie had gotten together in the earlier books, I don't think CH would have any intention at all of them working out for the same reason that she hadn't experienced anyone except for Bill. She was still to naive to realize what she truly wanted and or needed.

i dono...just an opinion

Even when Sookie was dating Quinn, she couldn't get her mind off of Eric.

"I don't think Quinn made a fair comparison. His family is a burden, she would always have come in second. Eric's business holdings are not the same as a crackpot family. In fact, if Appius and Alexei hadn't died, they may have been too much of a burden for a sustainable relationship for Sookie. Quinn was never around anyway. His business kept him on the road."

IMO, spot on! 

Quinn was a rebound on Eric.  She used him to put in Eric's face, no matter how lady like she tried to be about it.  She may have been hot for Quinn and CH did a pretty damn good job of describing him physically (of course the babe thing would get old quick) but he was the "Oh, Eric. I didn't see you standing there.  Have you met Quinn?" Sookie was acting like a jealous woman.  And I am a jealous woman, so I know.  I freak out if someone flirts with Ross(my husband) and he is so laid back.  Not me, oh no.

hahaha, thank you for all the responses...but still i felt that the quinn and sookie relationship ended too quickly. as for eric's relatioship with sookie, i agree it did sprout long before quinn came into the picture, but i dont think she was already in love with him at the time, but i do agree that his job does keep him away too much to really make the relationship work and eric is just a "jog" away for him...hahahaha...so i do stability.

Okay perhaps I'm going on semantics here, but saying "She'll LIVE as long as a normal human lives" leaves it pretty open... I mean if she's a vampire/aka DEAD, wouldn't that still fit in that statement?

A normal human life span is 80 years according to Google.

I don't think it fits the statement. Esp. b'c CH said she would never become a vamp. Human lifespan is separate.

but still i felt that the quinn and sookie relationship ended too quickly.

I did, too.  I think Eric worries about that as well, and that's the real reason why he banned Quinn from his territory.

Quinn is 100 time dangerous than Eric. Quinn has a problem with you?well he just take a stake and kill you...or he just kill,. Quinn has no morality and doesn't value LIFE...for me this is 100 worse than everything tricky that Eric couls have done to protect her...

I am so sure Victor used Quinn to go to Sookie ignoring Eric's authority....Eric knows Quinn from long time and he saw him during the fights Quinn did....CH said it.....

Eric was honest by asking Sookie if she loved him and if she regreted him and in case she had say YES i'm pretty sure Eric would have leave her alone as he did in book 6-7 when she was with Quinn...he might be jalous but never crossed a limit....

there was just one thing Bill could have done right and was put down that tiger!

I like Quinn.  I don't think he's immoral at all. What makes you think so?  I'm curious.  Yes, he staked Andre.  Thank God.  He did that for Sookie. Everything else he's done has been to protect his family.  I don't think Quinn was working with Victor in DAG.  I think he honestly wanted to see Sookie, explain himself, and discuss why she ended things.  It was important enough to him to get in some deep trouble with Eric.  I'm glad Bill didn't kill him and I'm anxious to see what role he will play in the Novella.

I don't think he's immoral at all. What makes you think so?  I'm curious.

There's a ton of discussion about this in the Quinn threads. There's a few with of them.

What if he isn't exactly thrilled to see Sookie in the novella? I mean considering how things went down... perhaps he's bitter? just speculating over here...

If Quinn wanted to talk to Sookie so badly he would call,  Oh wait he doesn't never has.

Exactly.

As far as Sookie and Eric's relationship is concerned, I do think they will be under a lot of strain in the next book. It is quite possible that they will break up.  However, I think it will be due to the political situation and whatever unwelcome issues Eric was dealing with in DITF.  I don't think that CH will have us discover some dark, twisted plot that he's kept secret from Sookie that sends her running off to the arms of another man.  CH did that with Bill, and it would be incredibly cheap to do it again.  But, on the other hand, she does seem to running out of original ideas...

someone on here posted a really interesting theory that Eric was going to have to marry another vampire as a political alliance and the clues were in DITF. Were THAT to happen, it would certainly be a significant hurdle and likely break them up.

Until Sookie kills the other spouse, of course.

I thought that theory was very interesting and quite possible. I would be interested to see how Sookie would handle that.  The only thing that bugs me about that, though, is why she would care if he married another vampire? She doesn't even consider her own vampire marriage real, so why would she be threatened by another vampire marriage made for political stability? Of course, there is the issue of Eric consummating the other marriage, but does that just apply to royalty or sheriffs as well?

I have to agree, I don't think it would really matter if Eric were married to another vampire for political reasons.  He already considers Sookie his real bride.  Personally, I was so glad the Quinn relationship ended when it did.  I don't think I could have stomached another book him.  I HATED Quinn.  Plus, the "babe" thing was getting annoying.  Also, Sookie didn't put up much of a fight about Eric banning Quinn, so I don't think it bothered her so much.  Plus, if Eric were trying to be vindictive and get rid of old boyfriends, why is Bill still around?  I mean, Eric has had complete control over Bill for a long time and if he said leave, Bill would have to go.  Just my opinion.

I would be interested to see how Sookie would handle that.  

 I'm thinking she wouldn't handle it well. Maybe she's getting better - with the life survival skills - but Eric's pragmatism was something that really bothered her when the takeover occurred. I also recall her kind of making judgmental comments re: Amelia for the same reason. She's kind of 'line in the sand' about somethings. However, her desire for Victor to be killed may indicate a larger change occurring within her on that front.

The only thing that bugs me about, though, is why she would care if he married another vampire? She doesn't even really consider her own vampire marriage real, so why would she be threatened by another vampire marriage made for political stability?

 She may not consider it real, but she would likely feel threatened nonetheless. I reread the beginning of DITF and I was kind of taken away by the fact that she spends 3-4 nights a week with Eric. That's a lot of time for a normal relationship where the couple doesnt live together. She's already colossally insecure about the relationship. Him spending time with someone else would likely bother her.

Of course, there is the issue of Eric consummating the other marriage, but does that just apply to royalty or sheriffs as well? 

YEah, there was a whole debate on here as to whether or not Eric had sex with Appius in DITF. It was too gross to contemplate so I ignored those threads...

 I reread the beginning of DITF and I was kind of taken away by the fact that she spends 3-4 nights a week with Eric. 

I got the eBook, and the part I think you're referring to is "I spent the next night with Eric.  As I did three or four times a week, I woke up panting, filled with terror...."  I took those to be two separate sentences, meaning she woke up with nightmares three to four times a week, not that she slept over that often.  But, as I said, I got the eBook, and I have noticed a couple of typos so it is entirely possible that part is flawed in my copy of DITF.

aw, hell, you're right! I liked it my way better! Dammit! I think its done on purpose. the first sentence of the chapter is bold and italics and the letters all run into each other! And its usually like 3am when I'm reading these books...okay, so scratch the above. well that part anyway. I still think she would be upset if Eric were to marry for a political alliance

Since Eric's marriage to Sookie is a vamp marriage, could he even have another marriage for political reasons? Is polygamy allowed in the vamp world? If not and the political marriage theory works, he'd have to vamp divorce Sookie which would definitely upset the HEA.

Well, in AB's world, all's fair. RE is looking to get the Queen to marry him. LOL. Wonder what Talbott thinks of that.

True... what a mess!!

aw, hell, you're right! I liked it my way better!

I liked it your way better, too.  I love the thought of them being so into each other they're together that much.

She's already colossally insecure about the relationship.

Having her boyfriend marry someone else for whatever reason would go against everything she believes.  She has told him she will be faithful unless she decides the bond is all they have. I believe she would expect the same from him.  Knowing Sookie and her past experience with Bill cheating with Lorena, there's no way she'd put up with that, "political marriage" or not.

 Since Eric's marriage to Sookie is a vamp marriage, could he even have another marriage for political reasons? Is polygamy allowed in the vamp world? If not and the political marriage theory works, he'd have to vamp divorce Sookie which would definitely upset the HEA.

Spoken like a true lawyer!!  That makes me feel better, actually.  I don't think he'd divorce her, because he's stated that that is what is keeping her safe.

Having her boyfriend marry someone else for whatever reason would go against everything she believes.

Agreed. It is totally against character, but I keep hoping some of Eric's pragmatism will rub off on her. I don't see it happening, though!  Sookie seems a little proud, and I can't imagine her standing by while Eric married someone else, for political reasons or not.  Even though what they did does not constitute a binding marriage to her and regardless of whether there would be consummation of this new marriage, I don't think Eric being publicly married to someone else would sit well at all.

I am wondering if Sookie picks up some info from Pam in the short story that is coming out & that will effect her relationship  - like if Pam unwittingly tells her something & Sookie pieces together about Eric. CH has said that Pam has never "knowingly lied" to Sookie. Which makes me believe that she has, so there is  possibility for Pam to let something slip she has no idea she is slipping & Sookie to put 2+2 together.

Either way - I think she'll end up with Eric but I don't think it'll be smooth sailing.

I don't think it will be smooth sailing, either.  I do think the idea of Eric having to make a vamp marriage for political reasons is a credible idea, but that leaves the question open of whether he would be forced to divorce Sookie, which I don't think he would do.  He has stated that is what keeps FdC from carting her off to Las Vegas, so I couldn't imagine any dissolution of E/S marriage until he and VM are out of the way.  Eric is nothing if not practical, and doing something that would leave Sookie open to harm is not practical.

Also, your theory about Pam has me wondering what it could be that Pam has unknowingly lied to Sookie about...I think a full series reread is in order!

I think so too! After the short comes out, I think I might. It comes out Aug. 3rd.

Off the top of my head though I was thinking that Pam tells Sookie to never doubt Eric's maneuver's are always about saving her ass. Maybe she unknowingly lied to her about that  - that there was more to it on Eric's part...such as, he loves her & actually wanted to be officially married to her in the vamp world..?

I can't think of anything else at the moment.

That would almost be a welcome deception, IMO. It does come pretty quickly on the heels of his getting his memory of their time together back. The only problem with that theory, to me, is that VM says he'll "take the tiger's request off the table" after seeing Sookie present Eric with the knife. It does seem there was some political reason behind it, but we all know that Eric is always practical.  It could just be he took advantage of the situation and, out of necessity, got something he also wanted.

It is possible that part of Eric's motivation was to get rid of Quinn, but it would have only been a secondary motive. He also knew that FDC wanted Sookie's talent. And he loved her, which was a strong motive. So I don't see finding out that part of his motivation was to get rid of Quinn would be enough to drive off Sookie.

BTW, he was in love with Sookie before he got his memories as AE. Getting his AE memories back wasn't why he was in love Sookie. He was in love for quite some time. Getting those memories back was only the icing on the cake.

Eric never had the discussion with Sookie about the requirements she now has as the wife of a vampire. I wonder what kind of fine print the marriage requires...such as if Sookie dates anyone else Eric can kill them and etc. Sam had reacted very strongly to Sookies news about their marriage so there could be a lot more to it then we know.

Well we do know that SA's marriage to Peter Threadgill had a huge written contract to cover all the fine print, but I guess we don't know if there are generic rights that go with all vamp marriages.

I always thought that Sam's reaction was because it officially took her off the market. He didn't seem to have a problem asking her out to dinner.

Danielle, I would love to see that discussion between Eric & Sook in book 11.

YEah, there was a whole debate on here as to whether or not Eric had sex with Appius in DITF. It was too gross to contemplate so I ignored those threads...

I was looking in this forum for those threads, but didn't find anything, could someone provide me a link please?

BTW, he was in love with Sookie before he got his memories as AE. Getting his AE memories back wasn't why he was in love Sookie. He was in love for quite some time. Getting those memories back was only the icing on the cake.

I agree with you. All signs have pointed to Eric being in love with Sookie for quite a while. I was only suggesting it was a plausible theory because of the timing relative to his getting his memories back.

I was looking in this forum for those threads, but didn't find anything, could someone provide me a link please?

Silke, I believe that discussion took place in the thread "Book #10: Dead In the Family **SPOILERS**".  It's a huge thread so you'd have to read through.  I'm so sorry, but I don't know how to create a link to a thread.  It's just a short scroll down from the top, under the one about Vampire diaries and the one about Sam.  Hope that helps!  

I don't think Eric has had that discussion with Sookie because there aren't any requirements for her as his wife that he can 'enforce'.  Since the marriage isn't recognized by the state, and has no bearing in the human legal system, Sookie is free to do as she likes.  She could marry a human or a shifter, and Eric would have no recourse.  Yes, he could kill them, but that would be murder in the eyes of the system, if he were caught.  My understanding is that the only thing the vamp marriage specifically covers is any relationship with another vamp.

@ Lunarbunny: thanks! I'll look, i'm halfway through the general book 10 thread already...lol

The only problem with that theory, to me, is that VM says he'll "take the tiger's request off the table" after seeing Sookie present Eric with the knife.

But what would Pam be lying about in relation to the "saving your ass" comment then?  That maybe it's really about keeping Quinn away & Pam didn't know? Possibly.. but Eric admits to it pretty much in that office.

I agree 100% - I do think that Eric has many motivations, esp. after being caught out so many times in surprise. He has to be more on his game & his busting out the knife proves that - but I am trying to think about things Pam has specifically said to Sookie which she could have unwittingly lied about.

I believe CH makes that comment about Pam after DAG. Pam wasn't in DAG so I'm trying to remember Pam/Sookie moments where Pam would have said or told her something that was actually info, which might have more to it then even Pam realizes.

So here's the thing.....since Pam is not fond of the E/S bond b'c it distracts him & it's dangerous for him (ATD) - I figure Eric probably knows that Pam feels that way. Yes? No? Would he tell her that down deep - he want to be officially bonded to Sookie which is why he made that quick move? Or would he give her the other reason only - the very legit, to save Sookie's ass from Andre, the Queen etc...?

That speech from Pam comes in the same book as ATD - Eric overheard her begging Sookie to have Mercy, he knows how she feels. Would he want to admit to it? Or...maybe b'c he did overhear - Sookie wasn't as big a distraction was Pam thought b'c Eric had a very close eye out for her in ATD....?

Judy - I moved my answer to something you wrote in the "whose the one" thread here -

You could definitely feel that the last two were weak. I didn't get the joyful thrill I had gotten before. Besides dragging out "The One" any longer will just get annoying and tedious. There are only so many contrived complications that can be tolerated. 

Yeah - Judy, you know I have been reading a bunch of different books series that I have been putting down & picking back up. I can't seem to stay fully engaged for a length of time. I was thinking about re-reading the books, again but more then that - the 1st read through up to ATD  (I had to wait a month for FDTW to come out). I was SO into the books but more than that - the joyful thrill you're talking about was there. When I finished one, I was so relieved to have the next one to hand. She was just a great storyteller to me in this series, I was completely into it (obviously).

No bought DAG was a mess. She messed it up by not sticking to her original plan & it showed. As we said - it coulda' ended up being a seriously great dark watershed book & a really poignant swan song for Bill after all was said & done & instead, we got a head scratcher which most fans knew  - there was something really off.

DITF - I really didn't expect huge action. That would have unrealistic but would I have liked more compelling dialog? Something a bit more riveting? I do think it had moments of greatness & I really did enjoy the last 20-30% of the book. I loved see the change in Sookie too. IMO, she needed to be a bit more ruthless & pragmatic & she was certainly acting like it.

But yeah - it does seem like CH has been losing steam since ATD  (maybe it transfered to Alan Ball). Although I did hear that she finished book 11 already. That could be a good sign?? I really hope this series goes out with a thrilling bang & not a depressed whimper.

I am hoping the short & novella will kick it up a notch again & that's why they're going in before book 11. So that book 11 can be happening.

a human/vamp marriage is probably different then a vamp/vamp marriage, and Eric did not deny "requirements" he just said they would talk about it later.  Even though the "marriage" is not recognized by the state, neither are any of the other vampire rules, but they still have power and need to be followed or there will be consequences. As a side note I do not see Eric ever wanting to live without Sookie ...or give her up. If Sookie ever threatened to break up with him he may play a marriage card to protect his own dead heart ...or he would have a melt down and not be able to function properly...very Shakespearian. They are too bound emotionally and experience wise for any logical long term break up. After all Sookie is Erics dearest!

As for DITF i didnt mind it...but it did seem like a big filler, preparing for future books. I am just glad that they had Sookie recover from her wounds and that E/S are still together.

Someone earlier commented on Appius and Eric hooking up, but Eric already told her in DITF  that they didnt and that because they are wed he would tell her.

I remember a convo I had with Ashley (Aye17) who I miss, BTW.  She has such great insight; emotional and otherwise.  I hope she doesn't mind if I share with you her view that DAG and DITF were necessary because in the former CH got to break the characters down and then in the latter build them up again.  She surmised that it may have been achieved in a more expedient way, but she didn't mind because it served an emotional purpose that then allows them to move ahead with the new plot direction in DL.  Made me feel a whole lot better about those two books, so I thought I'd share it.  I miss you Ashley!!  

But yeah - it does seem like CH has been losing steam since ATD  (maybe it transfered to Alan Ball). Although I did hear that she finished book 11 already. That could be a good sign?? I really hope this series goes out with a thrilling bang & not a depressed whimper.

  I couldn't agree more as to the upcoming ending of this series!  I'm just curious, where did you read the CH is don't with DL?  I'm really looking forward to this, but so far I haven't found anything concrete.  If this is so, does this mean May 2011 will  introduce us to a new Sookie book?

As I was reading through this thread to catch up on what I missed the past week or so, the talk of having Eric marry another vamp triggered a thought in my brain.  I looked up the quote because it was nagging at me.  When Sookie goes to see Eric at Fangtasia, when they are alone and saying their 'goodnights' page 245:

"I love you," Eric said in a drained voice.  "And you are my wife, in the only way that matters to me."

"Love you, too," I said, passing on the last half of his closing statement because I didn't know what it meant.

The only other reference to their marriage is on the previous page and they are talking about who, if anyone, Appius is having sex with.

"I know this is your business, since we're married - something I've insisted on and you've belittled," Eric said and the bitterness was back in his voice.

But I don't see this sentence as revelant to him saying that she is his wife in the only way that matters to him.

Maybe this is related the "unwelcome business" that Appius came to talk to him about (besides hoping that he could help Alexei) and it's fresh in his mind/he's considering the advantages of going forward with a vamp marriage so that's why he uses those specific words - "you are my wife in the only way that matters to me".  Or it's something that happend/is going to happen that Sookie's going to find out about in the next book.  If he did or is going to marry another vamp as part of his acquiring power and did or does so without telling her, I think that would shake her faith in them as a couple, leading to a temporary break.  And that idea of faith in them is in her opening line to him once they're alone (page 242):

"Can you tell me what's up with you?" I said bluntly.  "This is awful.  It's very hard to have faith in us when I don't know what's happening."

"Ocella has had some business to discuss with me," Eric said.  "Some unwelcome business.  And as you saw, my half brother is ailing."  

Just some of my thoughts as to why this makes me think that Appius either came to warn him about another clans' plans for a take-over, or what's brewing in other territories, or even suggested that he marry to somehow protect himself.  I think I combined a few ideas in the post that may or not be directly related to each other, but it was something that seemed pertinent enough to look up.  Hopefully you'll be able to get what I mean dispite my pregnant-sometimes-hard-to-describe-things brain fog.

Hey Celeste!  No, your preggo brain is functioning just fine IMO, and what you are saying is quite clear.  I think this is an idea that others have also discussed in the "Book #10: Dead in the Family **SPOILERS**" thread, and perhaps another thread, but I can't remember which ... and I'm not even pregnant anymore, just a mum of two!!    When trying to figure out what the "unwelcome business" might have been, it was also speculated it could have been a proposal from another monarch to back Eric's take over of Louisiana if he then marries that monarch and joins kingdoms.  You are in good company!

At RT in May, CH said that she was getting close to her June deadline for the next book (11).  On her site she mentions missing the deadline by a month because of all the publicity she's done for DitF and TB.  The publishing world works way in advance.  A friend of mine has her second book to her editor and it won't see the light of day until 2012.  CH was almost done with book 11 when 10 came out.

Having her boyfriend marry someone else for whatever reason would go against everything she believes.   
Sookie definitely wants to come first with her man. But that's a tall order if he becomes king, so maybe she loves him enough to over look him being really busy politically, but Sookie will never share her man. I'm guessing Eric will be in need of some help to over throw a king, so someone (Oklahoma?) may have possibly suggested to him thru Appius about marriage being an option.

Just had a thought- Alexie may have killed Bobby because those papers he had for Eric to sign made him very angry after feeling their love. If the papers had to do with anything from Felicia being a spy from Oklahoma with a marriage proposal. Just speculation, but it would explain Appius telling Sookie she can't keep him either and Felicia being at Eric's house.

requirements she now has as the wife of a vampire
breaking up in the vamp world may not be an option. I'm really curious about this. I hope CH will give us more info about this in the next book or even the Novella. Maybe Quinn will blab all this info to her in Texas, since he knows so much about all the supes rules.

Sam had reacted very strongly to Sookies news about their marriage
Do you think Quinn was told they were married? Victor didn't tell FDC, but maybe Quinn reacted so strongly in DAG because he knew. Or Eric possible didn't punish him severely because Quinn didn't know the were married until Eric shows up after Sookie get knocked out.

CH has said that Pam has never "knowingly lied" to Sookie.
Oh Gosh, I had never read that. The first thing that comes to my mind is in ATD when Pam visits Sookie at Merlotte's and asks her to have mercy on Eric 'cause they never knew about the Bill and the Queen's arrangement. Then someone else posted that there will be a story about emails between Bill and Eric. Maybe Eric didn't know the exact intentions of the Queen or Bill, but it's possible he knew  a little more than he told Pam, also there were some weird conversations after the Manead thing in LDID that just seemed like Bill and Eric had an arrangement. Just speculation of course. Eric may have tricked her into taking his blood, because he was suspicious of the Queen's intentions (and also he liked Sookie and her gift).  

Someone posted a while back that Eric may be giving Bill orders to not contact Sookie, which explains why she has to email Bill or go by his house to talk to him DITF. Wonder if the emails are about that or if they are farther back - maybe when Eric first meets Sookie and is inquiring about using her for her telepathy.

I don't think Eric would need to email Bill to keep away from Sookie. He could just tell him in person or by phone. Or Felicia could since she was giving him blood. Emails would probably indicate a back and forth while they hashed something out. Bill was very ill and he didn't want her to see him that way. And that's why he didn't contact her.

I think the emails may have had to do with Eric trying to find out what SA wanted with Sookie. Or maybe it just dealt with Eric trying to find out what Bill's secret project for SA was. Then again, the most amusing emails would have been right after Eric met Sookie and decided he wanted her. He may have been trying to convince Bill to let him have her.

I just can't see the queen of Oklahoma feeling there was a benefit to marry a sheriff in Louisiana. However, there may have been documents about a pending war.

Bill was clearly depressed in DITF. He was purposefully isolating himself. If he was ordered not to contact Sookie, then he wouldn't have invited her with him to the Bellefleurs or wrote her that "thank you" note about Judith.

I just can't see the queen of Oklahoma feeling there was a benefit to marry a sheriff in Louisiana.

That's my issue with the "marriage" theory. I could see that as a possibly if the marriage was a stipulation to when they take over LA from FDC. But, it would seem more important to actually get the kingdom first before proposing marriage.

Then again, the most amusing emails would have been right after Eric met Sookie and decided he wanted her. He may have been trying to convince Bill to let him have her.

That would be a lot of fun to read.

I'm betting the emails will be humorous. That's the kind of filler a book like this will typically have. The serious stuff will be in the novella, but the rest of the book seems lighthearted (i.e. recipes). The only thing CH has said will impact the continuity is the novella, so I'm betting the emails will not have any important revelations.

That's my issue with the "marriage" theory. I could see that as a possibly if the marriage was a stipulation to when they take over LA from FDC. But, it would seem more important to actually get the kingdom first before proposing marriage.

That take on the situation works for me. In the end, Eric could decide to renege on the marriage to Oklahoma once the war was over.

You know, he could say "Oops, I'm already married."

Then again, the most amusing emails would have been right after Eric met Sookie and decided he wanted her. He may have been trying to convince Bill to let him have her.
That would be hilarious! 

You could just see him making various offers and enticements in trade for Sookie.

i don't see this marriage thing happening for eric tho. i mean he had plenty of opportunities to do it before why now? especially when he seems like he has a pretty steady relationship with sookie. being as old as he is you would thing he would have been promoted to being a king of some area already. but i really want to know what happened to dermot. and how did sookie's parents really died (since dermot said he had a spell cast on him)

Lileeli, I totally agree we so need some more info on Dermot!! I thought that was going to get solved at the end of the book! Maybe these ''dead letters'' will explain how Sookies parent really died? Just a thought

Looks like the new title is Dead Reckoning.  I posted the 'announcement' in the CH Q&A thread.

Anyone care to offer any new suggestions based on the literal definitions of reckoning and Dead Recknoning:

reck·on·ing

–noun
1.count; computation; calculation.
2.the settlement of accounts, as between two companies.
3.a statement of an amount due; bill.
4.an accounting, as for things received or done.
5.an appraisal or judgment.
6.Navigation . dead reckoning.
7.day of reckoning.

dead reckoning

noun Navigation .
1.calculation of one's position on the basis of distance run on various headings since the last precisely observed position, with as accurate allowance as possible being made for wind, currents, compass errors, etc.
2.one's position as so calculated.

I love the title.

It's one I had never thought of; and I'd thought I'd come up with every possible use of the word 'Dead'. LOL.

I just came up with a theory that I love.  In dead reckoning from above if you change it from physical position to more of a political one I think that this book could be about their mission to kill Victor Madden. That is what she wanted in DITF, so now it is Victor and possibly Felipe's day of reckoning.

There are a lot of characters who could face a dead reckoning.  Great title.

That is what she wanted in DITF, so now it is Victor and possibly Felipe's day of reckoning.

Well it's certainly been a bit of time coming since book 8, so I hope you're right Dallas.

Looks like a signal that CH is tightening up the overall storyline and not going off into a minor bit. Sounds illuminating - awareness for situations that were once secrets or unknown.

1) political situation

2) tha attic/grandmother

I hope so. DITF seemed like a build up to some kind of reckoning for Victor Madden, with all the comments from the book characters that Victor had to be killed.  If so, it'll be interesting to read what role FDC has in Victor's death and how this will affect Eric politically.

LOVE the title. And I really hope this book is stronger than the last two.

Well this title certainly gives an entirely different slant on the book. But I like it since dead letters seemed kind of passive.

And I am just going to say it:  With the possibility of a reckoning meaning that someone is gonna pay for injustices done  that I don't think that Sookie and Eric will break up.  They are both intelligent and now that Sookie has had enough of the supe shit and is starting to be a little ruthless, I predict that they will F* people up with a gracious plenty of our favorite pair in there.

I agree completely. Letters could have implied a separation, but this really implies that someone is going to a reckoning. And we all know whose number has come up.

Plus, you don't admit you love someone and then ditch them because they are being who they have always been since the night you were introduced to them.

I love the new title! and the comments refering to it are great! I Cant see S/E breaking up either not with a title referring to more of a 'war' and 'injustice again someone (Victor)' they will have to stick together and be strong not break up!!  Love it!!

They are both intelligent and now that Sookie has had enough of the supe shit and is starting to be a little ruthless, I predict that they will F* people up with a gracious plenty of our favorite pair in there.

AMEN! Here's to hoping for a full blown-up past-paced vamp-war for the last 3 books

I think the title points even more to S/E possibly breaking up.  What if the reckoning is Eric's?

Since one of the definitions of reckoning is a settlement of accounts, I would say that it is possible that Eric finally shares with Sookie all the small details of their marriage and blood bond. Maybe she doesn't like it, and she bolts. It's a possibility, but unlikely IMO.  Reading the books (and unlike you, I have read them more than once, so this point is glaringly obvious to me), you can see that CH is definitely laying the foundation for something to happen on the political end. For one, Eric tells Sookie of the political situation w/vamps in the US. Second, he mentions that he is keeping excellent records that prove he is doing his job as sheriff well because he worries about VM's motives. Not to mention, VM chained him to a wall with silver to prevent him from saving Sookie, then he had his underlings try to take out Pam and Sookie.  I can't think this is all pointless filler. How many attempts on their lives do you expect Eric to allow before he takes action? What is all this pointing to, if not a resolution to the political situation with VM?

Chele, I tried to play devil's advocate for you, but having read your posts, it seems like you are being contrary just to be contrary.

Oops, sorry. I missed that!

No worries.

Laura just a question: what does blackballed mean??

It means she's voted off the island.

oohh ok thanks

Dead Reckoning - sounds like a old style western film, ideal really as Eric is a sherriff   I agree with many others that this ttitle screams a confrontation/conclusion to the VM&FdC situation. will be great to see Sookie working with Eric and hopefully we will get to see some great 'outside the box' thinking from her again.

Just thinking about Eric and Bill they both lost their makers, dont this make them both kinda loose cannons with no one to make them heel or whatever makers can do? (Ok off to skim through books to see if theres any info, I haven't read them for awhile but I think there was something about it). Eric having no maker might make him more dangerous and this could have impact on this book, well you never know with CH.

Thats a good idea Dovex looking forward to reading what you come up with

I also love this title!  good to see that CH's editor/publisher is maybe finally good for something besides crappy continuity and encouraging her to turn her back on her original intentions for characters!  I agree it bodes well.  I remember someone posted about the joy they got from reading the early books.  How they would finish one, and feel a thrill as they reached for the next knowing that it was going to be another exciting ride.  DITF was like a little bit of methodone, but I'm hoping for the full out heroin in the next installment!!! lol

How about this angle: Maybe not only the vamps (dead) will be judged / newly evaluated but also Sookie's Grandma? The issue with the attic and her infidelity is still open. Maybe Sookie finds out stuff that makes her rethink her opinion on her Grandma... und thus question her upbringing and education. Maybe it's another steps from innocent southern Belle to calculating semi-hume in the supe-world? I liked the Grandma, but i'd also love this set up to see Sookie become more cunning.

I also like the title dead reckoning =).I think it may imply more political problems first though before S/E get revenge.

Maybe Sookie finds out stuff that makes her rethink her opinion on her Grandma... und thus question her upbringing and education. Maybe it's another steps from innocent southern Belle to calculating semi-hume in the supe-world? I liked the Grandma, but i'd also love this set up to see Sookie become more cunning.

Brilliant, Silke!    I love this idea.  I believe CH has said that Sookie will be giving some serious thought to her life and becoming a vampire.  Perhaps, this re-education you allude to will be part and parcel of this reckoning she will give to her life and her future.  If so, it would make it even more probable that she would move forward in a life with Eric.  If she can let go some of her preconceived notions and hang-ups around what her Gran and her culture taught her, it will all be to the good, IMO.

Information about her gran could also be the info she was unaware of. I def think more political stuff is in the works in this book but there is so much about the vamp politics that Sookie doesn't know that I have a hard time thinking that is the info CH was talking about. I mean before recent books Sookie knew almost nothing about the politics so it is all info she was unaware of. I think it'll be more personal or at least be something that effects Sookie directly.

That is a good idea too.  Because they say that her telepathy is not from the faery lineage, maybe it has something to do with Adele that we never knew before.

One big thing that I noticed in DITF is that for the first time Sookie actively wants to kill someone.  I think she is going to struggle with that.  I think the new book will be politically motivated and she will have a chance to find out if it is all worth it to her, to see if she is okay with changing her beliefs.  It is going to be a rocky road and I hope it doesn't break her and Eric apart but we all know Sookie; she has to question everything.  She will probably blame the bond for giving her the feelings of revenge or some BS like that. It could be a chance for CH to give Sookie and Eric a break, but even if she does I just can't imagine it being a lasting one.  And I agree that she is going to get to the bottom of the issue with her grandma.  I did not like DITF so much but at the very least it took maker issues out of the game.  Now Eric will have more power to do what he needs to do for him and Sookie and that's a good thing!