Book discussion: Fire and Hemlock, Parts One and Two

Here is the first of two discussion posts for Fire and Hemlock, by Diana Wynne Jones. It may be the case that we've all read the whole book already (I certainly found it hard to put down), but let's keep to the original plan and discuss only Part One ("New Hero") and Part Two ("Now Here") in this post so we don't accidentally spoil anyone who hasn't read beyond that part.

Two more organizational matters: I've been informed that one participant has a non-LJer friend who might like to join in the discussion, so I've gone ahead and posted this as a public post. But if any f-listers would feel more comfortable to have this f-locked, I will certainly do that; just let me know. (But unless that happens, anyone who sees this post and would like to join in the discussion is most welcome.)

Also, I've got an out-of-town friend coming next weekend, so I might not be able to do a discussion post so easily then. So [edited:] Based on feedback from the group -- and the recent Pottermore distractions ;) -- let's say that the second discussion post, for Parts Three and Four, will go up on Tuesday, August 13.

And now, let's start the discussion!
( Short summary and a few starter questions for Parts One and Two are behind the cut )