Friday, January 29, 2016
El Hotel de los Secretos #4, 1/28/16 Thursday: This novela is going to the dogs
Anita is here tonight, dusting, waxing and polishing the throne for Princess JuJu's arrival next Thursday. Please don't tell her I sat on it. It's fairly comfy, upholstered and covered in flame-stitch bargello needlepoint.
For all the night-owls and early birds who can't wait to discuss what just happened, here is a posting for you. Parte Uno follows with the goings on at our resplendent resort hotel, which is currently doubling as Murder Mystery Mansion. Parte Dos will come after the sun comes up on the East Coast. [Note: some scenes are combined to make them longer.]
Parte Uno--
Ouch!
Isabel is in Julio's room in the servants' quarters. She is offended when Julio calls her Isabel. It's Srta. Alarcon to you. He gets a slap for his insolence. She's angry that he's lied to her. Julio wonders if she's more offended that he lied or that he's a servant. He doesn't think she's been straightforward with him either, having not mentioned her upcoming nuptials. Isabel says she only found out about the arrangement a few hours before the announcement. They trade insults. He seems to have the last word as he pulls out Cristina Olmedo's bloody uniform. When Isabel says she doesn't understand what he's trying to say, he replies that no, she wouldn't understand, she's been coddled, spoiled, she's capricious. She knows nothing of the real world, his world. Why is he saying these things to her, she wants to know. He tells her the truth of who he is and why he is there, holding his sister's bloody clothing. He's there to find out who hurt her. Isabel is sure no one hurt her, she was dismissed for theft. Julio retorts she stole nothing and he is going to make sure people like her don't make payoffs so justice isn't done. They seem pretty angry with each other.
Is it Rotten Eggs or What?
The pueblo police chief, Suarez, is in the woods where Ximena's body is still lying in repose. She smells a bit off. He orders his assistant to hurry and get her out. He's expecting some big muckety-muck city detective any minute. Assistant complains. What's the hurry, he says, the pueblo has no morgue and she's not going anywhere fast. Suarez gets the joke, but it's not a laughing matter. He doesn't want to look like a bunch on nit-wits when this inspector, a specialist in assassinations arrives.
The Real Inspector Hound
We now meet Detective Ayala. He is big, he is brave, he snuffs out candles with his bare fingers (taking care to moisten them first). He's annoyed at being sent to this backwater pueblo. He and Teniente Perez leave.
Where in the World is Cristina?
Diego and his future mother-in-law, Dona Teresa are discussing the photo of Cristina that the guests turned over to him. She wants Diego to get to the bottom of this. This Cristina affair is quickly turning from a bother to a threat.
Pascual (the one with the red tie--it must mean he's a grade above the others) knocks to let them know Maestro Juventin Alcala has arrived with his luggage, lots of it. Dona Tere knows what that means. They need extra hands. She and Diego go down to greet him.
Don Benji comes to get Julio (Espinoza=Spiny). Isabel is still in his room. She tries to hide. Julio tries to put him off for a few minutes, but Benjamin insists NOW! Julio gets his coat and leaves. Isabel stays behind and gets Cristina's outfit and looks at the stains and torn fabric carefully. She sniffs. She thought she recognized the greenish stains as pond scum.
The Doggie Show
Maestro makes his entrance. He doesn't want his precious pups in the kennel where Diego offered to board them. He rejects Dona Tere's suggestion he might want them in his suite. He tells them the servants' quarters will be fine. Don Benji is put in charge. He immediately hands all the doggies to Julio to take for a walk.
Upstairs Goes Downstairs
Isabel has gone down to the kitchen area and sees Andres moping over a cup of something on the table. With prodding from his mother, Angela, he assures her he is fine.
Dona Tere appears to request a special dinner for the Maestro's pups. They only eat the finest meat and veggies. Lupe will get on it right away. She sees Isabel and wonders what she is doing down here. Isa says she came for a cup of tea. Good, take your sister some tea. She needs it, advises her mother.
Angela wishes to speak to Dona Tere in private. When they do, Angela says it's about Belen. She pregnant and it's Andres' child. She's none to happy with the news, but it is her grandchild. Angela pleads on behalf of the two of them for Belen to be restored to her position and be able to stay at the hotel until she delivers.
Dona Tere makes her way to Belen's room. Belen is dressed in her street clothes. Tere points out that if she leaves, she will have to make her own way, maybe get married and live on a pittance and turn out babies regularly. How far along is she, what happened, did she miscalculate? [Ed. note: I think she meant the rhythm method of birth control. She said un error en calculacion.] Her answer gives Tere pause. There is another option open to you. You can have your job back through your pregnancy, but when you deliver, we will announce that you lost the baby, while I assume the responsibility for the child. Belen wants to know what will happen to the baby. Tere says she will make sure the child is placed in a good home with benefits.
Me and Julio Down by the Fountain-Yard
Felipe, either drunk or just a buffoon, corners Julio and the pups out by the fountain. He tells Julio he's recruiting him for Genaro's WWE Saturday Night Fight Ring. Felipe assures him it'll be easy winnings. His opponents are just country blokes who don't really know how to fight. It has to be that very night. Julio refuses. Felipe says he owes him one. Julio says Felipe owes him one so they are even. The arrogant s.o.b. says that doesn't work between patrones and the servidumbre. Julio still refuses but the son of the owner one-ups him by firing an employee each time Julio says no. Julio says yes after three and it seems Andres might be next. Andres gets the dogs when Isabel arrives and wants Julio to accompany her down to the pool to get some flowers as a surprise for her sister.
Julio is quick to apologize for how he insulted her before. Isabel wants to help him. She tells him about the stains and how she knew they were from here. She was constantly staining her own clothes when she was younger and played here. Suddenly he sees a shiny object in the bottom of the pool. She watches transfixed, pretending to be horrified as he sheds his shirt. Then he jumps in. Oddly he did not remove his shoes as he did when he went in the fountain to get one of the dogs, nor his trousers, which would make sense since they will take longer to dry. He comes back up with a button. Isabel recognizes it as a button from one of their hotel uniforms. All they have to do is find a uniform with a missing button and they will identify the person who knows something about the missing Cristina. [Ed. note: This seems a little naïve, but I'll go with it for now.]
Diego announces his approach to interrupt in time for Julio to hide in the water behind some rocky formation. He wants to know what Isabel is doing there by the pool. Her mother wants her to come and have tea together, as a family. He is thrilled to be included, so off they go.
Tea time with the Alarcon family is rather dull. Isabel is distracted. She's thinking about Julio's accusation earlier about being a privileged princess. She's brought back to the present by Diego who tells her Maestro is giving a piano recital that evening and he wants Isabel to personally set up the ballroom.
From Saucy Wench to Humble Maid
Meanwhile, the dogs get away from Andres and end up in Belen's arms. He's surprised to see her back in her uniform. They seem to be the perfect couple in love. The chamaco might as well be his. She gives him a quick kiss. She wants to know why he told Angela the baby was his. He answers that he didn't want her to lose her job. They talk about how they feel about each other. She asks doesn't he care what others think? No, he only cares what she thinks. He admits he's really attracted to her and has been. He loves her (the querer version) and he would like them to get married. (Poor Diego, he doesn't know yet Belen has been rehired.) Andres and Belen share a deep probing kiss, to seal the deal. Then he herds the dogs to the back door of the hotel.
Stalking Around
Julio is in some area where extra uniforms are kept and starts looking through them and of course, finds one. But of course, he has no clue to whom it belonged as there is no name tag. Meanwhile Pascual furtively slips into Diego's office to leave the daily mail. He furtively (although no one is around) slips an envelope from his coat pocket among the others and then furtively slips back out of the office.
Tinkling the Out-of-Tune Ivories
Maestro Alcala is busy giving orders to Isabel on how the ballroom is to be set up--candles, none of these newfangled electric lights. Isabel finally escapes by telling him she sees the gardener with the flowers. The Maestro continues without missing a beat to give Diego further instructions while he continues to practice, then dismisses him.
Parte Dos--
The Case of the Missing Button
Isabel has not met the gardner. She's met Julio in the garden, away from prying eyes. She doesn't have much time (the recital and all). He tells her about the uniform he found missing the button and no name tag. Isabel tells him every uniform has to have a name tag. When someone leaves, the uniform is cleaned and reused for a new employee (one size fits all). If there is no tag, then someone removed it deliberately. There is a permanent ledger where all employees are registered, those that have left as well as current ones. The book is in Diego's office. Julio won't be able to access it, but she can, as the administrator's finacee (one more thing to do). Felipe interrupts. Isabel reminds Felipe he has to help with the preparations then leaves. Felipe reminds Julio he has to get to the cantina NOW.
Surprise! Blackmail for the Blaggard
Diego returns to his office to take care of routine hotel business. He sorts the incoming letters. He opens THE letter. He reads the words--If you don't want anyone to know what happened to Cristina, leave 1,000 pesos tomorrow at 12 at the crossing over the creek. He has a worried look. He heads for the front desk to grill Pascual about THE letter. Pascual knows nada, he just delivered the mail, as always. Diego is suspicious of the origin since it carried no stamp. But now he's off to get something from the safe.
Congrats, Bro, or Something
Julio returns to his room to find Andres withdrawing his stash of savings from the Banco Nacional de la Luz Electrica. He tells Julio it's for a ring for Belen. He's asked her to marry him. Julio looks a little surprised. He had no idea they were going together. Andres proudly announces his impending fatherhood. Julio suggest he can more than double his money--if he bets on him to win a few rounds at the Cantina. Just do it. I'll win. Bro Hug.
Practice Doesn't Always Make Perfect
Lordy, Juventino is still practicing. Isa is forced to turn pages when she really wants to be searching Diego's office. She finally manages to slip out and into Diego's office. She begins rifling through all the illogical places one would keep an important record book on employees. Aha, there it is, tossed carelessly into a side desk drawer. Isa comes up with a name--Pascual. [Ed. note: QTH? Pascual is a current employee and wearing his coat...well, maybe we'll get an explanation later.] Then Isa spies THE letter, tossed carelessly on the desk, and, because it happens to be in Isa's hands, she reads it.
The Man in the Hat
Of all people, Pascual knocks and enters Diego's office, startling Isabel. She was looking for Diego. Pascual offers to go get him. No, not necessary, she was just leaving. Behind him, stands a fedora-topped stranger. After she and Pascual leave, the stranger walks right into Diego's office, followed by Diego himself. Diego gives Fedora Man a stack of bills (now we know why he went to the hotel safe--he's not using his own money for the payoff). Fedora Man is to make the drop and to observe carefully who comes for it. Diego wants to make him pay (back the money....). Fedora Man wants to know if this person should be able to talk afterwards or be permanently silenced. Diego doesn't answer. He seems to be thinking it over. Felipe interrupts. [Ed. note: Felipe is taking on a life of his own as Interruptus Maximus.] Later, Felipe returns to the darkened office and finds a wad of bills in the first drawer he opens. Betting money (aha, he's not using his own money either).
In the Kitchen With Lupe
We get a brief glimpse of Lupe's domain where the refreshments are being readied to be served after the recital takes place. Don Benji is timing everyone. Angela is bustling around. Isabel appears and starts to talk to one of the maids, Natalia. Angela shoos her away, telling her to go up and change or her mother will scold her. Later, upstairs, Diego comes to get her. She begs off that she's having trouble with her dress and she'll meet him downstairs. He is not pleased.
Piano Man Kills Beethoven and Puts Almost Everyone Else to Sleep
Snooze, snore, ZZZzzzzz, except Dona Teresa and Diego. Isabel has not appeared. Tere tells Diego to go get her. He quizzes Pascual at the front desk. Pascual knows nada, although he did see her a couple of hours ago in his office looking for something. Diego puts on his evil-worried look (this one is different from just plain worried.)
The Lady in White
Actually it's Isa, in a floor-length white cape sneaking out of the hotel premises. It must be near midnight and we think we know where she is going.
Place Your Bets, Folks
It's dark, sweaty, noisy and bloody in the cantina as Julio fights a couple of rounds. He's not bloodied or bruised. The other guy is, maybe even has a loose tooth. Genaro is pleased. Felipe arrives and puts his whole wad on the camarero. Genaro takes the bet. When the third round is about to begin, Felipe does an Interruptus Maximus and tells Julio to throw the fight. He won't be sorry and Felipe will never ask him for another thing. Andres has overheard the whole conversation. He begs Julio not to do this to him.
What will Julio do? The Answer My Friends Is Blowing in on Friday night. Take it away, cathyx or Nandicta.
For all the night-owls and early birds who can't wait to discuss what just happened, here is a posting for you. Parte Uno follows with the goings on at our resplendent resort hotel, which is currently doubling as Murder Mystery Mansion. Parte Dos will come after the sun comes up on the East Coast. [Note: some scenes are combined to make them longer.]
Parte Uno--
Ouch!
Isabel is in Julio's room in the servants' quarters. She is offended when Julio calls her Isabel. It's Srta. Alarcon to you. He gets a slap for his insolence. She's angry that he's lied to her. Julio wonders if she's more offended that he lied or that he's a servant. He doesn't think she's been straightforward with him either, having not mentioned her upcoming nuptials. Isabel says she only found out about the arrangement a few hours before the announcement. They trade insults. He seems to have the last word as he pulls out Cristina Olmedo's bloody uniform. When Isabel says she doesn't understand what he's trying to say, he replies that no, she wouldn't understand, she's been coddled, spoiled, she's capricious. She knows nothing of the real world, his world. Why is he saying these things to her, she wants to know. He tells her the truth of who he is and why he is there, holding his sister's bloody clothing. He's there to find out who hurt her. Isabel is sure no one hurt her, she was dismissed for theft. Julio retorts she stole nothing and he is going to make sure people like her don't make payoffs so justice isn't done. They seem pretty angry with each other.
Is it Rotten Eggs or What?
The pueblo police chief, Suarez, is in the woods where Ximena's body is still lying in repose. She smells a bit off. He orders his assistant to hurry and get her out. He's expecting some big muckety-muck city detective any minute. Assistant complains. What's the hurry, he says, the pueblo has no morgue and she's not going anywhere fast. Suarez gets the joke, but it's not a laughing matter. He doesn't want to look like a bunch on nit-wits when this inspector, a specialist in assassinations arrives.
The Real Inspector Hound
We now meet Detective Ayala. He is big, he is brave, he snuffs out candles with his bare fingers (taking care to moisten them first). He's annoyed at being sent to this backwater pueblo. He and Teniente Perez leave.
Where in the World is Cristina?
Diego and his future mother-in-law, Dona Teresa are discussing the photo of Cristina that the guests turned over to him. She wants Diego to get to the bottom of this. This Cristina affair is quickly turning from a bother to a threat.
Pascual (the one with the red tie--it must mean he's a grade above the others) knocks to let them know Maestro Juventin Alcala has arrived with his luggage, lots of it. Dona Tere knows what that means. They need extra hands. She and Diego go down to greet him.
Don Benji comes to get Julio (Espinoza=Spiny). Isabel is still in his room. She tries to hide. Julio tries to put him off for a few minutes, but Benjamin insists NOW! Julio gets his coat and leaves. Isabel stays behind and gets Cristina's outfit and looks at the stains and torn fabric carefully. She sniffs. She thought she recognized the greenish stains as pond scum.
The Doggie Show
Maestro makes his entrance. He doesn't want his precious pups in the kennel where Diego offered to board them. He rejects Dona Tere's suggestion he might want them in his suite. He tells them the servants' quarters will be fine. Don Benji is put in charge. He immediately hands all the doggies to Julio to take for a walk.
Upstairs Goes Downstairs
Isabel has gone down to the kitchen area and sees Andres moping over a cup of something on the table. With prodding from his mother, Angela, he assures her he is fine.
Dona Tere appears to request a special dinner for the Maestro's pups. They only eat the finest meat and veggies. Lupe will get on it right away. She sees Isabel and wonders what she is doing down here. Isa says she came for a cup of tea. Good, take your sister some tea. She needs it, advises her mother.
Angela wishes to speak to Dona Tere in private. When they do, Angela says it's about Belen. She pregnant and it's Andres' child. She's none to happy with the news, but it is her grandchild. Angela pleads on behalf of the two of them for Belen to be restored to her position and be able to stay at the hotel until she delivers.
Dona Tere makes her way to Belen's room. Belen is dressed in her street clothes. Tere points out that if she leaves, she will have to make her own way, maybe get married and live on a pittance and turn out babies regularly. How far along is she, what happened, did she miscalculate? [Ed. note: I think she meant the rhythm method of birth control. She said un error en calculacion.] Her answer gives Tere pause. There is another option open to you. You can have your job back through your pregnancy, but when you deliver, we will announce that you lost the baby, while I assume the responsibility for the child. Belen wants to know what will happen to the baby. Tere says she will make sure the child is placed in a good home with benefits.
Me and Julio Down by the Fountain-Yard
Felipe, either drunk or just a buffoon, corners Julio and the pups out by the fountain. He tells Julio he's recruiting him for Genaro's WWE Saturday Night Fight Ring. Felipe assures him it'll be easy winnings. His opponents are just country blokes who don't really know how to fight. It has to be that very night. Julio refuses. Felipe says he owes him one. Julio says Felipe owes him one so they are even. The arrogant s.o.b. says that doesn't work between patrones and the servidumbre. Julio still refuses but the son of the owner one-ups him by firing an employee each time Julio says no. Julio says yes after three and it seems Andres might be next. Andres gets the dogs when Isabel arrives and wants Julio to accompany her down to the pool to get some flowers as a surprise for her sister.
Julio is quick to apologize for how he insulted her before. Isabel wants to help him. She tells him about the stains and how she knew they were from here. She was constantly staining her own clothes when she was younger and played here. Suddenly he sees a shiny object in the bottom of the pool. She watches transfixed, pretending to be horrified as he sheds his shirt. Then he jumps in. Oddly he did not remove his shoes as he did when he went in the fountain to get one of the dogs, nor his trousers, which would make sense since they will take longer to dry. He comes back up with a button. Isabel recognizes it as a button from one of their hotel uniforms. All they have to do is find a uniform with a missing button and they will identify the person who knows something about the missing Cristina. [Ed. note: This seems a little naïve, but I'll go with it for now.]
Diego announces his approach to interrupt in time for Julio to hide in the water behind some rocky formation. He wants to know what Isabel is doing there by the pool. Her mother wants her to come and have tea together, as a family. He is thrilled to be included, so off they go.
Tea time with the Alarcon family is rather dull. Isabel is distracted. She's thinking about Julio's accusation earlier about being a privileged princess. She's brought back to the present by Diego who tells her Maestro is giving a piano recital that evening and he wants Isabel to personally set up the ballroom.
From Saucy Wench to Humble Maid
Meanwhile, the dogs get away from Andres and end up in Belen's arms. He's surprised to see her back in her uniform. They seem to be the perfect couple in love. The chamaco might as well be his. She gives him a quick kiss. She wants to know why he told Angela the baby was his. He answers that he didn't want her to lose her job. They talk about how they feel about each other. She asks doesn't he care what others think? No, he only cares what she thinks. He admits he's really attracted to her and has been. He loves her (the querer version) and he would like them to get married. (Poor Diego, he doesn't know yet Belen has been rehired.) Andres and Belen share a deep probing kiss, to seal the deal. Then he herds the dogs to the back door of the hotel.
Stalking Around
Julio is in some area where extra uniforms are kept and starts looking through them and of course, finds one. But of course, he has no clue to whom it belonged as there is no name tag. Meanwhile Pascual furtively slips into Diego's office to leave the daily mail. He furtively (although no one is around) slips an envelope from his coat pocket among the others and then furtively slips back out of the office.
Tinkling the Out-of-Tune Ivories
Maestro Alcala is busy giving orders to Isabel on how the ballroom is to be set up--candles, none of these newfangled electric lights. Isabel finally escapes by telling him she sees the gardener with the flowers. The Maestro continues without missing a beat to give Diego further instructions while he continues to practice, then dismisses him.
Parte Dos--
The Case of the Missing Button
Isabel has not met the gardner. She's met Julio in the garden, away from prying eyes. She doesn't have much time (the recital and all). He tells her about the uniform he found missing the button and no name tag. Isabel tells him every uniform has to have a name tag. When someone leaves, the uniform is cleaned and reused for a new employee (one size fits all). If there is no tag, then someone removed it deliberately. There is a permanent ledger where all employees are registered, those that have left as well as current ones. The book is in Diego's office. Julio won't be able to access it, but she can, as the administrator's finacee (one more thing to do). Felipe interrupts. Isabel reminds Felipe he has to help with the preparations then leaves. Felipe reminds Julio he has to get to the cantina NOW.
Surprise! Blackmail for the Blaggard
Diego returns to his office to take care of routine hotel business. He sorts the incoming letters. He opens THE letter. He reads the words--If you don't want anyone to know what happened to Cristina, leave 1,000 pesos tomorrow at 12 at the crossing over the creek. He has a worried look. He heads for the front desk to grill Pascual about THE letter. Pascual knows nada, he just delivered the mail, as always. Diego is suspicious of the origin since it carried no stamp. But now he's off to get something from the safe.
Congrats, Bro, or Something
Julio returns to his room to find Andres withdrawing his stash of savings from the Banco Nacional de la Luz Electrica. He tells Julio it's for a ring for Belen. He's asked her to marry him. Julio looks a little surprised. He had no idea they were going together. Andres proudly announces his impending fatherhood. Julio suggest he can more than double his money--if he bets on him to win a few rounds at the Cantina. Just do it. I'll win. Bro Hug.
Practice Doesn't Always Make Perfect
Lordy, Juventino is still practicing. Isa is forced to turn pages when she really wants to be searching Diego's office. She finally manages to slip out and into Diego's office. She begins rifling through all the illogical places one would keep an important record book on employees. Aha, there it is, tossed carelessly into a side desk drawer. Isa comes up with a name--Pascual. [Ed. note: QTH? Pascual is a current employee and wearing his coat...well, maybe we'll get an explanation later.] Then Isa spies THE letter, tossed carelessly on the desk, and, because it happens to be in Isa's hands, she reads it.
The Man in the Hat
Of all people, Pascual knocks and enters Diego's office, startling Isabel. She was looking for Diego. Pascual offers to go get him. No, not necessary, she was just leaving. Behind him, stands a fedora-topped stranger. After she and Pascual leave, the stranger walks right into Diego's office, followed by Diego himself. Diego gives Fedora Man a stack of bills (now we know why he went to the hotel safe--he's not using his own money for the payoff). Fedora Man is to make the drop and to observe carefully who comes for it. Diego wants to make him pay (back the money....). Fedora Man wants to know if this person should be able to talk afterwards or be permanently silenced. Diego doesn't answer. He seems to be thinking it over. Felipe interrupts. [Ed. note: Felipe is taking on a life of his own as Interruptus Maximus.] Later, Felipe returns to the darkened office and finds a wad of bills in the first drawer he opens. Betting money (aha, he's not using his own money either).
In the Kitchen With Lupe
We get a brief glimpse of Lupe's domain where the refreshments are being readied to be served after the recital takes place. Don Benji is timing everyone. Angela is bustling around. Isabel appears and starts to talk to one of the maids, Natalia. Angela shoos her away, telling her to go up and change or her mother will scold her. Later, upstairs, Diego comes to get her. She begs off that she's having trouble with her dress and she'll meet him downstairs. He is not pleased.
Piano Man Kills Beethoven and Puts Almost Everyone Else to Sleep
Snooze, snore, ZZZzzzzz, except Dona Teresa and Diego. Isabel has not appeared. Tere tells Diego to go get her. He quizzes Pascual at the front desk. Pascual knows nada, although he did see her a couple of hours ago in his office looking for something. Diego puts on his evil-worried look (this one is different from just plain worried.)
The Lady in White
Actually it's Isa, in a floor-length white cape sneaking out of the hotel premises. It must be near midnight and we think we know where she is going.
Place Your Bets, Folks
It's dark, sweaty, noisy and bloody in the cantina as Julio fights a couple of rounds. He's not bloodied or bruised. The other guy is, maybe even has a loose tooth. Genaro is pleased. Felipe arrives and puts his whole wad on the camarero. Genaro takes the bet. When the third round is about to begin, Felipe does an Interruptus Maximus and tells Julio to throw the fight. He won't be sorry and Felipe will never ask him for another thing. Andres has overheard the whole conversation. He begs Julio not to do this to him.
What will Julio do? The Answer My Friends Is Blowing in on Friday night. Take it away, cathyx or Nandicta.
Labels: hotel
Comments:
Thank you, Anita! Looking forward to pt 2.
I had to laugh when Teresa told Belen she wouldn't wish Angela for a mother in law on her worst enemy. Teresa's no treat in that department, either!
That "tea" was painfully dull.
The Maestro was really a hoot. I was beginning to wonder if we'd be getting anything in the way of comic relief, but the conceited pianist and his dogs really fit the bill.
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Thank you so much, Anita! I'm looking forward to the second part.
SO Isabel and Julio will become partners, trying to find out what happened to Cristina. Not what I would have imagined would happen, but happy that she knows the truth and is willing to help.
Whoever called the baby swap the first - kudos! I do have to wonder how is Sofia supposed to hide the fact that she is not pregnant from her husband. Is there a business trip on the horizon for him? Hmmmm....
Adriana Noel
SO Isabel and Julio will become partners, trying to find out what happened to Cristina. Not what I would have imagined would happen, but happy that she knows the truth and is willing to help.
Whoever called the baby swap the first - kudos! I do have to wonder how is Sofia supposed to hide the fact that she is not pregnant from her husband. Is there a business trip on the horizon for him? Hmmmm....
Adriana Noel
Permalink posted by 
: Friday, January 29, 2016 at 5:11:00 AM EST
: Friday, January 29, 2016 at 5:11:00 AM EST
Gracias, Anita. Looking forward to part 2.
Felipe is an obnoxious entitled jerk. He's not even amusing, but here's a new cliche: the mandatory alcoholic character.
The pianist (if one can really call him that) is also a real special snowflake. He was butchering Beethoven later; I'd never be able to sit through a whole recital of his. His dogs are adorable but why bring them when you're not going to have them in your suite?
More later.
Felipe is an obnoxious entitled jerk. He's not even amusing, but here's a new cliche: the mandatory alcoholic character.
The pianist (if one can really call him that) is also a real special snowflake. He was butchering Beethoven later; I'd never be able to sit through a whole recital of his. His dogs are adorable but why bring them when you're not going to have them in your suite?
More later.
Anita- How wonderful to read one of your wonderful recaps again. I hope you guest recap for us from time to time. Looking forward to part two.
How fantastic that Julio told Isa the whole truth and now they're working together. And now a real detective is coming to town. Hope he stays at the hotel.
Pasqual, the receptionist, certainly came out of nowhere as this episode's dark horse. Hmmm...
Felipe showed his true ruthless colors. He's more like his mother than I thought. I'm not sure if the whole drunkard thing isn't just an act most of the time.
How fantastic that Julio told Isa the whole truth and now they're working together. And now a real detective is coming to town. Hope he stays at the hotel.
Pasqual, the receptionist, certainly came out of nowhere as this episode's dark horse. Hmmm...
Felipe showed his true ruthless colors. He's more like his mother than I thought. I'm not sure if the whole drunkard thing isn't just an act most of the time.
Great Anita!
"Me and Julio Down by the Fountain-Yard"
Felipe's arm twisting was a little weak.
I missed Julio not removing his shoes but wondered why Diego didn't see Julio's shirt on the rocks beside Isabel.
I love Isabel wanting to be part of the who done it. Immediately sniffing the clothing and deducing mold = pond.
"Me and Julio Down by the Fountain-Yard"
Felipe's arm twisting was a little weak.
I missed Julio not removing his shoes but wondered why Diego didn't see Julio's shirt on the rocks beside Isabel.
I love Isabel wanting to be part of the who done it. Immediately sniffing the clothing and deducing mold = pond.
Thank you, Anita, for the very entertaining recap!
Yay! Another one of my favorites! Jesús Ochoa as detective Ayala! This just keeps getting better and better!
Yay! Another one of my favorites! Jesús Ochoa as detective Ayala! This just keeps getting better and better!
Great Part One Anita. Can't wait for the rest!!
Love how this TN just is moving along, and true to a mystery, characters start to pop up with those special facial looks that should be followed with the obligatory TA DA DUM music. Like our two leads now in cahoots to solve the mystery.
By the time this TN rolled finished, I was thanking the TN gods for all the shirtless scenes I was getting in shows last night. Lord, it made this old girl sit up and stay awake. But I did have a shaking of the beanie that Julio's clothes weren't spied by Diego. Maybe they were far enough to the side, and he was only focused on his prize that he didn't see them. Conniving but clueless?
UA, yes, that pianist!! As one myself, and someone who studied to be a classical performer (until realizing I hated the performing part), the hairs on my neck were rising with pain. The piano was horribly tuned and he might as well have been playing chop sticks for his "expertise". If we have to listen to him play a whole piece in a scene tonight, I may have to mute. But I LOVED THE DOGS!! Hysterical with their little barking through the whole thing, and that one that kept escaping looked just like one of my dear former pets who I had for 13 years. No one better hurt those poochies.
So uniform button in the pond where Cristina also picked up pond scum. What an appropo way for us to think of the killer? Or someone who lured her there? Or is someone being set up? Agatha Christie would be proud...nothing obvious but clues being laid.
Felipe seems an idiot. But sometimes the idiot knows more than he's letting on. So I'll give him a few more episodes to see for sure.
Check in later
Daisynjay
Love how this TN just is moving along, and true to a mystery, characters start to pop up with those special facial looks that should be followed with the obligatory TA DA DUM music. Like our two leads now in cahoots to solve the mystery.
By the time this TN rolled finished, I was thanking the TN gods for all the shirtless scenes I was getting in shows last night. Lord, it made this old girl sit up and stay awake. But I did have a shaking of the beanie that Julio's clothes weren't spied by Diego. Maybe they were far enough to the side, and he was only focused on his prize that he didn't see them. Conniving but clueless?
UA, yes, that pianist!! As one myself, and someone who studied to be a classical performer (until realizing I hated the performing part), the hairs on my neck were rising with pain. The piano was horribly tuned and he might as well have been playing chop sticks for his "expertise". If we have to listen to him play a whole piece in a scene tonight, I may have to mute. But I LOVED THE DOGS!! Hysterical with their little barking through the whole thing, and that one that kept escaping looked just like one of my dear former pets who I had for 13 years. No one better hurt those poochies.
So uniform button in the pond where Cristina also picked up pond scum. What an appropo way for us to think of the killer? Or someone who lured her there? Or is someone being set up? Agatha Christie would be proud...nothing obvious but clues being laid.
Felipe seems an idiot. But sometimes the idiot knows more than he's letting on. So I'll give him a few more episodes to see for sure.
Check in later
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, January 29, 2016 at 9:27:00 AM EST
: Friday, January 29, 2016 at 9:27:00 AM EST
Good morning, Hotel denizens. Parte Dos is in the composing room.
Thanks, tofie and Daisynjay--it is indeed pond scum. Will change it. I couldn't find the word I thought I heard her say, so I just guessed.
Thanks, tofie and Daisynjay--it is indeed pond scum. Will change it. I couldn't find the word I thought I heard her say, so I just guessed.
Thank you, Anita! Looking forward to pt 2.
I had to laugh when Teresa told Belen she wouldn't wish Angela for a mother in law on her worst enemy. Teresa's no treat in that department, either!
That "tea" was painfully dull.
The Maestro was really a hoot. I was beginning to wonder if we'd be getting anything in the way of comic relief, but the conceited pianist and his dogs really fit the bill.
Parte Dos is up. I expanded the encounter between Andres and Belen by a couple of sentences. I overlooked that he asked her to marry him at this point.
I'm a cat person but I thought the dogs were adorable.
Belen is terribly plain. One thing that struck me when watching her in this episode is that her hair looked dirty in the close-up. So I found this article about hair care during this period.
I can't imagine shampooing one's hair this infrequently.
Belen is terribly plain. One thing that struck me when watching her in this episode is that her hair looked dirty in the close-up. So I found this article about hair care during this period.
I can't imagine shampooing one's hair this infrequently.
Urban- I don't think Belen is plain at all, and her hair just looks curly to me. I think she has a really interesting face. Those cheekbones and those eyes. A bit of makeup and she'd be drop dead gorgeous. Off to read part 2.
Just read Part 2, Anita, and pianists like this one would make Beethoven happy to have lost his hearing.
Julio better not throw that fight. If Felipe bet against him he deserves to lose the money and based on his past behavior I wouldn't trust him.
Didn't say this before but he was making me seriously angry when he blackmailed Julio into the fight by firing employees. As entitled as Teresa herself is I'm sure she'd be peeved at this stuff.
Julio better not throw that fight. If Felipe bet against him he deserves to lose the money and based on his past behavior I wouldn't trust him.
Didn't say this before but he was making me seriously angry when he blackmailed Julio into the fight by firing employees. As entitled as Teresa herself is I'm sure she'd be peeved at this stuff.
Anita- Loved Part 2 as much as part one!
Did Felipe really bet on Julio? If so, why does he want him to throw the fight? Poor Andres, if he does!
I enjoyed all the little humorous moments this episode, from the local police chief, to the detective, to the pretentious maestro, and of course his dogs. Lupe did NOT look happy having to waste his filet mignon on those pups.
An all white dress and cape are not the best choice for trying to be stealthy, Isabela. :) Where is she going?
Did Felipe really bet on Julio? If so, why does he want him to throw the fight? Poor Andres, if he does!
I enjoyed all the little humorous moments this episode, from the local police chief, to the detective, to the pretentious maestro, and of course his dogs. Lupe did NOT look happy having to waste his filet mignon on those pups.
An all white dress and cape are not the best choice for trying to be stealthy, Isabela. :) Where is she going?
Vivi--As far as I can make out, not being a follower of early 20th C. back-room fights, they may be allowed to bet on each round a fighter fights. Felipe could fe-lip and bet against Julio in the third round.
I couldn't tell if it was the same guy all the way through. I could see in the last two rounds, the opponent had a shoulder tattoo.
I couldn't tell if it was the same guy all the way through. I could see in the last two rounds, the opponent had a shoulder tattoo.
Anita- Thanks for clearing that up. So Felipe both bet ON Julio and against him, for different rounds.
Part 2 was equally fantastic Anita. As someone who does not enjoy the sport of boxing, as soon as the scene flipped to the matches, I turned it off since it was towards the end anyway. So I greatly appreciate the detail on what occurred.
Back street or back of house fights in Europe and the US were common during this period, but almost everywhere were not considered legal. That said local officials often turned a blind eye to the gambling going on if payoff hush money happened. Any type of back door gambling was considered illegal (cockfights, etc.) I would guess the same was prevalent during this time in Latin America. Not uncommon for corruption and thrown fights and in some areas like New York, organized crime had a strong foothold in the organization and police protection on these events.
Belen may be someone who was hoping to better her standing by her relationship with Deigo, but not thrilled at poor Andres getting pulled into the mess she got herself into. Trying to be her hero may come back to bite him.
Seems Isabel's standing is odd in the house. I get the drift that the staff knows her mother is a beyotch, but that the daughter is someone they protect and are endeared to. Her father must have been well regarded by the staff, Teresa not so much. Atypical wife who was the tyrant...I'm still confused on Diego's ability to have taken over. Is Teresa secretly enamored of him or is she old school feeling " a man" needs to be in charge, and will marry her daughter off to make that happen.(she didn't think Alfredo had it in him). Something weird there.
Daisynjay
Back street or back of house fights in Europe and the US were common during this period, but almost everywhere were not considered legal. That said local officials often turned a blind eye to the gambling going on if payoff hush money happened. Any type of back door gambling was considered illegal (cockfights, etc.) I would guess the same was prevalent during this time in Latin America. Not uncommon for corruption and thrown fights and in some areas like New York, organized crime had a strong foothold in the organization and police protection on these events.
Belen may be someone who was hoping to better her standing by her relationship with Deigo, but not thrilled at poor Andres getting pulled into the mess she got herself into. Trying to be her hero may come back to bite him.
Seems Isabel's standing is odd in the house. I get the drift that the staff knows her mother is a beyotch, but that the daughter is someone they protect and are endeared to. Her father must have been well regarded by the staff, Teresa not so much. Atypical wife who was the tyrant...I'm still confused on Diego's ability to have taken over. Is Teresa secretly enamored of him or is she old school feeling " a man" needs to be in charge, and will marry her daughter off to make that happen.(she didn't think Alfredo had it in him). Something weird there.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, January 29, 2016 at 11:46:00 AM EST
: Friday, January 29, 2016 at 11:46:00 AM EST
Daisynjay- Considering their talk about the blackmail letter, I think it's clear that Teresa and Diego do NOT have a typical boss-employee/suegra-yerno relationship. They have dirt and secrets between them, which we have only seen a glimpse of so far.
Thanks for pt 2, Anita! I loved "She begins rifling through all the illogical places one would keep an important record book on employees. Aha, there it is, tossed carelessly into a side desk drawer." I hope she'll be able to sharpen her looking-for-things skills. (Though in her defense, I wouldn't have seen the button at the bottom of the pond either!)
So, now who do we think left the bloodstained uniform in Diego's room? It wouldn't have been Pascual, would it? I mean, if you're blackmailing someone do you give them your juiciest piece of evidence BEFORE you issue the written threat and collect the payment?
Julie- There might be multiple people messing with Diego's mind. Pascual's obvious goal was just money. While the person who left the bloody uniform seemed to have a more sinister goal. Too early to tell. Pascual certainly just popped out of the background last night, so who's to tell who else we haven't noticed yet.
Nanette, you took the words right out of my mouth :-)
I like the way the big mystery is spawning little side-mysteries. We have more mysteries than clues! Wasn't there something something in the avances last night about a knife? Maybe a broken knife? Is that a clue, or another mystery?
I like the way the big mystery is spawning little side-mysteries. We have more mysteries than clues! Wasn't there something something in the avances last night about a knife? Maybe a broken knife? Is that a clue, or another mystery?
Anita: Thanks so much for the recap. Furtively is the word for the day.
Wondered why Diego didn’t see the shirt, either.
I think Belen is very pretty. The only time she looked plain to me was in the scene where she was talking to Teresa. The one outdoors with Andres, she was almost beautiful (and I have a very high standard for who I’ll call beautiful).
Hopefully, those employees get rehired. I’m not liking Felipe very much. He’s so freakin’ annoying. And useless.
Nanette
Wondered why Diego didn’t see the shirt, either.
I think Belen is very pretty. The only time she looked plain to me was in the scene where she was talking to Teresa. The one outdoors with Andres, she was almost beautiful (and I have a very high standard for who I’ll call beautiful).
Hopefully, those employees get rehired. I’m not liking Felipe very much. He’s so freakin’ annoying. And useless.
Nanette
Julie: I love mysteries. They're my favorite kind of book. My standard for a good mystery: If I can't guess who done it. My mind doesn't work that way--seeing clues, solving mysteries. So if I can guess who did it before the very end, then it's not well written in my book (pun intended) :)
Thanks everyone for checking in. It was a fun episode to recap. Especially Diego's facial expressions. He has that evil glance up from a slightly bowed head down perfectly. That and his dark, slicked-down hair make him look very sinister.
Julie--At this early date, I'm just absorbing the mystery and the clues, but not ready to attach them to anyone in particular. Pascual, as Vivi said, came out of nowhere to a very sneaky position. But he certainly has possibilities. I could see a disgruntled employee type of guy who enjoys needling Diego, but not out-and-out murder. Pascual *acts* as though he wrote the note. We'll see who shows up besides Fedora Man and Isabel tonight. Diego, of course will not, nor would have gotten his hands dirty with Cristina's death. Disappearance, maybe.
I can also see Pascual leaving the box with the bloody uniform in Diego's room. He seems to pop in and out at will, as does Felipe, That would have sent a signal to Diego that the note is not a hoax. After all, anyone could have written the note without really knowing what happened to Cristina.
Speaking of Felipe, though, he's been living in an alcoholic fog since he arrived. I'm not ready to discount him because it *may* all be an act and he's being smart. Yeah, but smart so he doesn't have to *do* anything but drink and gamble. If he has something against Diego to provoke the box and the note, we don't know about it.
Diego and Teresa haven't given us enough intel on what it was about the Cristina affair photo that has them spooked. It's not just the dismissal of an employee for theft. Lordy, they didn't even take steps to make sure Old Mrs. Live-In (name please, I've forgotten) would back them up on the theft story. I guess what makes it believable for those times (and these days if you are an at-will employee) is dismissals didn't need a reason and could not be contested, so maybe they were counting on the reason for the dismissal never to make it upstairs. Cristina was there one day and gone the next.
Julie--At this early date, I'm just absorbing the mystery and the clues, but not ready to attach them to anyone in particular. Pascual, as Vivi said, came out of nowhere to a very sneaky position. But he certainly has possibilities. I could see a disgruntled employee type of guy who enjoys needling Diego, but not out-and-out murder. Pascual *acts* as though he wrote the note. We'll see who shows up besides Fedora Man and Isabel tonight. Diego, of course will not, nor would have gotten his hands dirty with Cristina's death. Disappearance, maybe.
I can also see Pascual leaving the box with the bloody uniform in Diego's room. He seems to pop in and out at will, as does Felipe, That would have sent a signal to Diego that the note is not a hoax. After all, anyone could have written the note without really knowing what happened to Cristina.
Speaking of Felipe, though, he's been living in an alcoholic fog since he arrived. I'm not ready to discount him because it *may* all be an act and he's being smart. Yeah, but smart so he doesn't have to *do* anything but drink and gamble. If he has something against Diego to provoke the box and the note, we don't know about it.
Diego and Teresa haven't given us enough intel on what it was about the Cristina affair photo that has them spooked. It's not just the dismissal of an employee for theft. Lordy, they didn't even take steps to make sure Old Mrs. Live-In (name please, I've forgotten) would back them up on the theft story. I guess what makes it believable for those times (and these days if you are an at-will employee) is dismissals didn't need a reason and could not be contested, so maybe they were counting on the reason for the dismissal never to make it upstairs. Cristina was there one day and gone the next.
Hi Anita, thanks for the recap. You hot it right
Girl "murder mystery mansion" is right. Right
Now theres two suspects Im watchin that
I think could be the culprits. But I'll wait. Cause moma tere lookin kinda guilty, all the
Time. This lady is just good at playin evil
Wicked parts. That diego guy is kinda creepy
Too. Her son's a drunken jerk.
I hope they move it along, and don't get all stagnated On one thing, thats boring.
why didn't that guy put the dogs in his room he don't mind putting them with the servants cuz he probably noticed the smell. they treat servants so bad in these telenovellas.
Girl "murder mystery mansion" is right. Right
Now theres two suspects Im watchin that
I think could be the culprits. But I'll wait. Cause moma tere lookin kinda guilty, all the
Time. This lady is just good at playin evil
Wicked parts. That diego guy is kinda creepy
Too. Her son's a drunken jerk.
I hope they move it along, and don't get all stagnated On one thing, thats boring.
why didn't that guy put the dogs in his room he don't mind putting them with the servants cuz he probably noticed the smell. they treat servants so bad in these telenovellas.
Permalink posted by : Friday, January 29, 2016 at 1:46:00 PM EST
: Friday, January 29, 2016 at 1:46:00 PM EST
Wow, this show is moving along at a blazing clip! It's so refreshing!
Anita, thanks so much for your excellent recap. I love your headings, and your characterization of Felipe as Interruptus Maximus. He is so annoying and useless.
I wondered if Flippy really has any firing power. Surely his mother and the other managers would not put up with his interfering with the staff, right? But possibly if Julio tried to call him on that and it got up to the real management, Teresa might fire those people anyway just to put Julio in his place and show that he is beneath the family, however much a thorn in her side Felipe may be. I did like the scene the other day where Felipe told Teresa that he turned out exactly as what she raised him to be: she spent his whole childhood telling him what a stupid loser he was, and he lived up to her expectations. So I think he may have had the potential to be more, and may in fact be smarter than he acts, but he might have too much damage and bad habit ingrained at this point to turn himself around very well.
Anita, thanks so much for your excellent recap. I love your headings, and your characterization of Felipe as Interruptus Maximus. He is so annoying and useless.
I wondered if Flippy really has any firing power. Surely his mother and the other managers would not put up with his interfering with the staff, right? But possibly if Julio tried to call him on that and it got up to the real management, Teresa might fire those people anyway just to put Julio in his place and show that he is beneath the family, however much a thorn in her side Felipe may be. I did like the scene the other day where Felipe told Teresa that he turned out exactly as what she raised him to be: she spent his whole childhood telling him what a stupid loser he was, and he lived up to her expectations. So I think he may have had the potential to be more, and may in fact be smarter than he acts, but he might have too much damage and bad habit ingrained at this point to turn himself around very well.
Felipe is interesting, yes? I don't think he's faking, but I don't think he's totally for real, either. I think he's bored and doesn't know what to do with himself. He strikes me as someone who could clean up his act pretty quickly if he had a good reason to do so - and this being a telenovela, that good reason would probably be a woman. (Preferably a woman his mother finds objectionable!)
I find it shocking that Teresa hasn't put Felipe first for his entire life. It's only the early 20th century and women were not valued as anything other than uteri with legs. How did Felipe turn out like this?
He's not too old to change, but he has to want to and I don't think he wants to. He likes to be free of any responsibilities including -- but not limited to -- marriage and children.
He's not too old to change, but he has to want to and I don't think he wants to. He likes to be free of any responsibilities including -- but not limited to -- marriage and children.
I don't think Diego is our killer, Belen who is a big threat to him was only fired, and she could blow his plans out of the water. Yes, he is a rat bastard but I don't think he has it in him to kill.
Permalink posted by : Friday, January 29, 2016 at 3:29:00 PM EST
: Friday, January 29, 2016 at 3:29:00 PM EST
We mustn't forget those flashback words of Dona Teresa's in the first or second episode to Cristina--Give me back what belongs to me. She didn't say give back the jewelry you stole from Mrs. Live-In. We have yet to get an inkling from among the current characters as to what it might have been.
Mmmm, yeah, I love a good mystery. My Sherlock Holmes Deerstalker cap is at the ready (but not the pipe).
Mmmm, yeah, I love a good mystery. My Sherlock Holmes Deerstalker cap is at the ready (but not the pipe).
I wonder if, as a child, Felipe had ADHD-type behaviors, or a learning disability, or even just normal kid acting up, and Teresa, understanding and helpful empath that she is, assigned him the label of terrible no-good loser and didn't bother trying to help him with his issues or accepting that they might be a phase. And after his mother wrote him off and kept labeling him that way, he eventually believed her and proved her right.
Teresa only ever has sour words for everyone, so Felipe doesn't need to have had any kind of problematic behavior to have been labeled a good-for-nothing.
Maybe Dad tried to stick up for him and maybe not, but Felipe could be the type of person who needs his mother's approval regardless of what his father thinks. In which case Felipe would have been doomed from day one.
On the other hand, if Felipe was born with a mischievous streak, then his mother's disapproval would be the perfect reinforcement. In which case Felipe would have been doomed from day one...
Maybe Dad tried to stick up for him and maybe not, but Felipe could be the type of person who needs his mother's approval regardless of what his father thinks. In which case Felipe would have been doomed from day one.
On the other hand, if Felipe was born with a mischievous streak, then his mother's disapproval would be the perfect reinforcement. In which case Felipe would have been doomed from day one...
Julia--I like your theory, with one minor adjustment. I think Felipe knows he can do better and believes in himself, but he likes "proving her right." It helps him avoid any meaningful work or career. He certainly seems to enjoy boozing, gambling and women. It's something wealthy young men of that day with no ambition, could do with impunity--until they either ran out of money, died of cirrhosis of the liver, maimed or killed for gambling debts or contract syphilis.
That makes sense, that's he's behaving this way specifically to punish Teresa for the way she's treated him. I personally would prefer to waste Mama's money and embarrass her in some way that didn't make me sick, but to each his own.
If Julio is going to throw the fight, he should do it on the condition that Felipe pay Andres back what he bet out of his earnings. I'm sure Felipe is betting way more than Andres is. But that would probably be inadequate drama, and also, Andres should know better than to bet all his savings anyway. Also, how was Julio so convinced he'd win? He didn't even know who he'd be fighting, did he? Sure, he's quick and tough, but any number of other dudes could be the same way. But if Andres was going to spend it on a ring for Belen, it's probably money down the drain either way.
If Julio is going to throw the fight, he should do it on the condition that Felipe pay Andres back what he bet out of his earnings. I'm sure Felipe is betting way more than Andres is. But that would probably be inadequate drama, and also, Andres should know better than to bet all his savings anyway. Also, how was Julio so convinced he'd win? He didn't even know who he'd be fighting, did he? Sure, he's quick and tough, but any number of other dudes could be the same way. But if Andres was going to spend it on a ring for Belen, it's probably money down the drain either way.
Julia--Julio showed his chops in an earlier episode. Genaro was impressed. That's how he *persuaded* Felipe to make Julio fight. This will only work once, though. After this fight (unless he does throw it), everyone will know he's a powerhouse, unless of course there are others who are gluttons for punishment. Apparently he learned his skills on the streets, but he actually showed some moves you only learn with an experienced teacher. (I know nada--I didn't really watch the blows very carefully. I can't stand other people's blood.)
He won one fight, but that doesn't mean he can win ANY fight. I don't like watching fighting, either. I hope there aren't a lot of fight scenes.
Anita, thanks for that comment about Julio's fighting. I think this novela has some anachronisms and that there will be more.
We know nothing of Julio's background and he does look like he knows some professional fighting moves. Could it be that whoever choreographed those fights didn't do his historical homework? As to his opponents, I'm sure half of them are drunk and Julio doesn't look like he indulges much if at all. He also has the will to win.
The other thing that bothered me was the use of the term "transparency", which is relatively new in the context of this use. I personally hate it and find it deceptive because it's meant to trick information out of someone whose best interests are served by maintaining confidentiality or withholding information for another reason.
We know nothing of Julio's background and he does look like he knows some professional fighting moves. Could it be that whoever choreographed those fights didn't do his historical homework? As to his opponents, I'm sure half of them are drunk and Julio doesn't look like he indulges much if at all. He also has the will to win.
The other thing that bothered me was the use of the term "transparency", which is relatively new in the context of this use. I personally hate it and find it deceptive because it's meant to trick information out of someone whose best interests are served by maintaining confidentiality or withholding information for another reason.
Urban--I just read the article you shared on how to care for women's hair in the 1900s. It reminds me of the old PBS program "The 1900 House." It consisted of selecting a family to live in a house they way our grandmothers and great grandmothers would have lived. Hair care was one of the things the women in the family just couldn't take. That and wearing a corset all day. Here's an article I found, written just before it actually aired.
http://www.enquirer.com/editions/2000/06/11/loc_kiesewetter_pbs_1900.html
BTW--Where was the term "transparency" used? In what context?
Here is what the Etymological Dictionary has to say about transparency: dates from the 1610s, "condition of being transparent," from Medieval Latin transparentia, from transparentem (see transparent). Meaning "that which is transparent" is from 1590s; of pictures, prints, etc., from 1785; in photography from 1866. For the word transparent, in the figurative sense of "easily seen through," the first attested use is 1590s.
http://www.enquirer.com/editions/2000/06/11/loc_kiesewetter_pbs_1900.html
BTW--Where was the term "transparency" used? In what context?
Here is what the Etymological Dictionary has to say about transparency: dates from the 1610s, "condition of being transparent," from Medieval Latin transparentia, from transparentem (see transparent). Meaning "that which is transparent" is from 1590s; of pictures, prints, etc., from 1785; in photography from 1866. For the word transparent, in the figurative sense of "easily seen through," the first attested use is 1590s.
Thank you Anita. I love your recaps so hopefully we will get some more in the near future. And I like your reference to Simon and Garfunkel's music.
I think that Pasquel may very well have been the person that Diego called on to dispose or help dispose of Cristina. Either that, or he was around the person who did and he knew enough about Cristina's fate that he could confidently bribe him for money. If Pasquel is found out to be the one who bribed him, he could be killed and we will still be left with a lot of questions about Cristina's fate.
I hate the boxing too, I hope we will be done with that after this bout.
I think that Pasquel may very well have been the person that Diego called on to dispose or help dispose of Cristina. Either that, or he was around the person who did and he knew enough about Cristina's fate that he could confidently bribe him for money. If Pasquel is found out to be the one who bribed him, he could be killed and we will still be left with a lot of questions about Cristina's fate.
I hate the boxing too, I hope we will be done with that after this bout.
Anita: I didn't see The 1900 Houuse, but did see Regency House Party. I love Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer.
Hello Patio pals! I just finished binge-watching the first 4 episodes of "El Hotel DLS" and I'm now off to binge-read the recaps. Many thanks in advance to Julie, Jardinera, Vivi and Anita for their hard work! I'm sure I'm in for a treat! :)
P.S. I can't get over the urge to give Erick Elías a hug and fix him a hearty seven-course meal.
P.S. I can't get over the urge to give Erick Elías a hug and fix him a hearty seven-course meal.
Anita, I do remember that series and it blew my mind that it took 3x as long to cook the same foods and then having to make one's own shampoo out of eggs. YIKES! That family couldn't wait to return to the 1990s.
I started hearing "transparency" in business around the aughts and it meant putting all one's cards on the table. I had previously had a recent college grad entry-level co-worker who gave a copy of a flowchart to a magazine sales rep. When my boss and I found that out we were floored. That is not done!
I started hearing "transparency" in business around the aughts and it meant putting all one's cards on the table. I had previously had a recent college grad entry-level co-worker who gave a copy of a flowchart to a magazine sales rep. When my boss and I found that out we were floored. That is not done!
Thank you Anita! I am enjoying this novela so much. It is incredibly fast paced in a way that it reminds me of Yo No Creo En Los Hombres. I am glad that this is just a spinoff and not an adaptation to the modern times. It would not be a Hotel of Secrets with shiny Iphones staring through the shadows! So far my favorite characters are Felipe, Isabel and Teresa. All of the characters are fresh and new so I just cannot decide who I should like more.
As for Diego I do believe that he definetly has a killer inside of him but not sure if he was at the Light Party so he could have hired Fedora Man or Genaro( Luis Gatica) to do the job . I would have to rewatch the pilot episode just to be sure. But I have to say the guy is clever but too obsessed with Isabel to use his intelligence at full strenght.
Felipe is one cruel playboy but I kind of feel sorry for him. He uses people just to get a satisfaction out of it all and to get back at his mother of the year. His relationship with Julio is certainly interesting to watch.
I may be the only one here who does not really like Andres that much . I feel that he is trying to be the hero too much but that may come to haunt him back one day. It's hard to say if Belen is just manipulating Andres to get back at Diego or if she really loves Andres.
When things come tumbling down, it is kind of hard to say which one ends up becoming the bigger monster , is it the one who planted the seeds or the ones that swallow them? Teresa will most likely get blamed for everything in the end but the innocent party also has their deadly flaws that is fueling the flames. Our characters live in much different time when people were forced to pretend just to get somewhere in their lives. It's hard to live on a world that is hidden behind thousand smiles.
As for Diego I do believe that he definetly has a killer inside of him but not sure if he was at the Light Party so he could have hired Fedora Man or Genaro( Luis Gatica) to do the job . I would have to rewatch the pilot episode just to be sure. But I have to say the guy is clever but too obsessed with Isabel to use his intelligence at full strenght.
Felipe is one cruel playboy but I kind of feel sorry for him. He uses people just to get a satisfaction out of it all and to get back at his mother of the year. His relationship with Julio is certainly interesting to watch.
I may be the only one here who does not really like Andres that much . I feel that he is trying to be the hero too much but that may come to haunt him back one day. It's hard to say if Belen is just manipulating Andres to get back at Diego or if she really loves Andres.
When things come tumbling down, it is kind of hard to say which one ends up becoming the bigger monster , is it the one who planted the seeds or the ones that swallow them? Teresa will most likely get blamed for everything in the end but the innocent party also has their deadly flaws that is fueling the flames. Our characters live in much different time when people were forced to pretend just to get somewhere in their lives. It's hard to live on a world that is hidden behind thousand smiles.
Countx--What a wonderful run down of our more important characters personalities and motivations. I hope others come back to read it.
Belen--That's why I gave her the heading From Saucy Wench to Humble Maid. We saw her cavorting with Diego in the first (or 2d) episode. I think she's still the saucy wench behind closed doors. I think Belen knows she's in a difficult situation when Diego rejected her notion of a little house with a picket fence and dandling his baby on her knee. Andres is a good second-stringer, though a little tame for her tastes.
Manipulation, yes, but to do the best with what life is offering. Teresa will have to be nice to her from now on, if she wants that baby. Belen is not beyond manipulating her!
Belen--That's why I gave her the heading From Saucy Wench to Humble Maid. We saw her cavorting with Diego in the first (or 2d) episode. I think she's still the saucy wench behind closed doors. I think Belen knows she's in a difficult situation when Diego rejected her notion of a little house with a picket fence and dandling his baby on her knee. Andres is a good second-stringer, though a little tame for her tastes.
Manipulation, yes, but to do the best with what life is offering. Teresa will have to be nice to her from now on, if she wants that baby. Belen is not beyond manipulating her!
Yeah Anita, these characters feel the need to control because it keeps them in a good mood subquently they have more control . In the time this story is happening violence and baby trades were a common thing no matter how repulsing it can be. Sometimes monsters are not just monsters, they are just ahead of the curtain . Sure Teresa has appearently made her children's lives a living hell but the children themselves make it worse just like Sofia with her dishonesty and lack of self worth that was produced by Teresa's bad example and lack of trust . Isabel too has a shitty mother but got over it and became a smart, honest and beatiful woman who does not care what the world thinks. Felipe pretty much ended up the worst of them all.
By the way I feel that this gives me GOT vibes . especially the piano scene and the dark atmosphere that this show posseses . I would have loved if the Maestro played "Chaos is a Ladder" or the "GOT Theme" on that piano because Diego reminds me of Littlefinger . Well we cannot have it all do we? I wonder if we will have a Red Wedding in this story.
By the way I feel that this gives me GOT vibes . especially the piano scene and the dark atmosphere that this show posseses . I would have loved if the Maestro played "Chaos is a Ladder" or the "GOT Theme" on that piano because Diego reminds me of Littlefinger . Well we cannot have it all do we? I wonder if we will have a Red Wedding in this story.
With the piano scene I mean it when almost everyone was in the hall sleeping. "Chaos Is a Ladder " would be perfect, it would have made the scene more dramatic and it would have been better than Beethoven. It could have also been played when the Maestro was practicing piano while conversing with Diego. Well if I had the choice to do it I certainly would but I am still satisfied with this show so I won't bother over the little things.
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