Spoiler Warning for BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

I was a bit surprised by how much the story drew attention to the empathic talent in both characters. I was further surprised at the fact that Allison appeared to have some smidgeon of ability in this area as well. In some ways it came off as a bit forced like it was being shoe-horned in there as retroactive justification for Honor's own empathic abilities. Now, we don't see much of Alfred in the main series but we do get a good dose of Allison. Her character to me was already established and there wasn't any mention of empathic capabilities.

I don't mind there being a genetic basis for Honor's empathy (especially since there are hints in the YA books that the Harringtons may possess this ability or manifest it in the future) I just wish it had been done a little more gradually.

Amaroq wrote:I was a bit surprised by how much the story drew attention to the empathic talent in both characters. I was further surprised at the fact that Allison appeared to have some smidgeon of ability in this area as well. In some ways it came off as a bit forced like it was being shoe-horned in there as retroactive justification for Honor's own empathic abilities. Now, we don't see much of Alfred in the main series but we do get a good dose of Allison. Her character to me was already established and there wasn't any mention of empathic capabilities.

I don't mind there being a genetic basis for Honor's empathy (especially since there are hints in the YA books that the Harringtons may possess this ability or manifest it in the future) I just wish it had been done a little more gradually.

Was there abnormal empathy in Alison prior to her encounter with Alfred on that day when he nearly bowled her over and reached out and grabbed her shoulder to prevent her from falling? The way I read the story, the bonding happened at that point and probably had to do with abilities or characteristics in Alfred, not Alison.

I would like to see both characters developed further. Alison because she is a delight; Alfred because we have seen so little of him.

Don

I don't think there's any textev prior to B&B, the story illustrates the opportunity to flesh them out more. Allison's family history, or Alfred's SOF duty. Hmmm...