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There might be a lucky swap this September with...
You Lucky Dog by Julia London Carly Kennedy's life is in a spiral. She is drowning in work, her divorced parents are going through their midlife crises, and somehow Carly's sister convinces her to foster Baxter--a basset hound rescue with a bad case of the blues. When Carly comes home late from work one day to discover that the dog walker has accidentally switched out Baxter for another perkier, friendlier basset hound, she has reached the end of her leash. When Max Sheffington finds a depressed male basset hound in place of his cheerful Hazel, he is bewildered. But when cute, fiery Carly arrives on his doorstep, he is intrigued. He was expecting the dog walker, not a pretty woman with firm ideas about dog discipline. And Carly was not expecting a handsome, bespectacled man to be feeding her dog mac and cheese. Baxter is besotted with Hazel, and Carly realizes she may have found the key to her puppy’s happiness. For his sake, she starts to spend more time with Hazel and Max, until she begins to understand the appeal of falling for your polar opposite. |
Take a life changing detour this August with...
The Paris Connection by Lorraine Brown When Hannah and her boyfriend, Simon, board their train with only a few seconds to spare, they're confident that they'll make it to Amsterdam in time for his sister's wedding. But unbeknownst to them, the train is scheduled to divide in the middle of the night. And when it does, half of it continues on the route to Amsterdam. And the other half--the one with Hannah in it--heads 300 miles away, to Paris. Left without her luggage, ticket, cell phone, or hope of reuniting with Simon, Hannah has no choice but to spend the day in Paris before the next train out. Worse than being stuck in a foreign city alone, though, is being stuck with Leo, the handsome but infuriating Frenchman who blames Hannah for his own unwanted detour. The series of mishaps that sends them traipsing through the City of Light seems like only further proof that Hannah's day has gone from bad to worse. So why is it that the more Hannah takes in the glorious sights and sounds of Paris--and the more time she spends with the increasingly intriguing Leo--the more she finds herself beginning to question the safe, tidy life she's built for herself back home in London? Warm, witty, and brimming with the romance and nostalgia that can be found only in Paris, The Paris Connection is the unforgettable story of how the wrong road can sometimes lead us in the right direction. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. At the beginning of the novel, Hannah and Si are rushing into their train to Amsterdam. Discuss the series of events that lead to them being split up in the middle of the night.
2. Under what circumstances do Leo and Hannah first meet? What are their reactions upon discovering they’re actually en route to Paris?
3. What goes wrong when Hannah arrives in Paris and tries to make her way back to Amsterdam, what forces her to stay in the city for the morning?
4. Discuss your first impressions of Leo. In what ways is he different from Si?
5. What quintessentially Parisian things does Hannah do and see? If you had a day to spend in Paris, what activities would you plan and why?
6. How does Hannah’s previous trip to Paris dictate how she feels about the city in the present of the story, and how does her time with Leo change her mind about it? What is she able to see with a fresh perspective?
7. Discuss how the trip changes Hannah’s mind about her career and love life. Why does she ultimately decide to pursue photography, and how does Hannah’s relationship with art mirror Leo’s relationship with music?
8. An important there in The Paris Connection is that the unexpected detours in life can turn out to be some of the most valuable experiences. To what extent is that true in this novel?
9. What do you think is in store for Hannah and Leo?
1. At the beginning of the novel, Hannah and Si are rushing into their train to Amsterdam. Discuss the series of events that lead to them being split up in the middle of the night.
2. Under what circumstances do Leo and Hannah first meet? What are their reactions upon discovering they’re actually en route to Paris?
3. What goes wrong when Hannah arrives in Paris and tries to make her way back to Amsterdam, what forces her to stay in the city for the morning?
4. Discuss your first impressions of Leo. In what ways is he different from Si?
5. What quintessentially Parisian things does Hannah do and see? If you had a day to spend in Paris, what activities would you plan and why?
6. How does Hannah’s previous trip to Paris dictate how she feels about the city in the present of the story, and how does her time with Leo change her mind about it? What is she able to see with a fresh perspective?
7. Discuss how the trip changes Hannah’s mind about her career and love life. Why does she ultimately decide to pursue photography, and how does Hannah’s relationship with art mirror Leo’s relationship with music?
8. An important there in The Paris Connection is that the unexpected detours in life can turn out to be some of the most valuable experiences. To what extent is that true in this novel?
9. What do you think is in store for Hannah and Leo?
What is staged and what is real? Find out this July...
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston First Son Alex Claremont-Diaz is the closest thing to a prince this side of the Atlantic. With his intrepid sister and the Veep’s genius granddaughter, they’re the White House Trio, a beautiful millennial marketing strategy for his mother, President Ellen Claremont. International socialite duties do have downsides—namely, when photos of a confrontation with his longtime nemesis Prince Henry at a royal wedding leak to the tabloids and threaten American/British relations. The plan for damage control: staging a fake friendship between the First Son and the Prince. As President Claremont kicks off her reelection bid, Alex finds himself hurtling into a secret relationship with Henry that could derail the campaign and upend two nations. What is worth the sacrifice? How do you do all the good you can do? And, most importantly, how will history remember you? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Red, White & Royal Blue has fun with a number of romance tropes. Which ones are your favorites and why are they so appealing?
2. At the beginning of the novel, Alex and Henry are enemies, then they become friends, and eventually lovers. Why does their relationship work so well? How do they balance each other out?
3. What’s the most swoon-worthy moment in this book (if you can pick one)? What do you think is the biggest turning point for Alex and Henry’s relationship? Discuss.
4. McQuiston adds a great deal of LGBTQ+ historical context for Alex’s journey throughout the novel. In what ways is this important for both Alex and the reader?
5. Alex and Henry’s communication escalates from texts to phone calls, and eventually to intense emails that quote the love letters of historical figures. How does their correspondence add to the story?
6. While the book is about a romantic relationship at its core, there are a number of other relationships with friends, parents, and siblings throughout. How are these relationships important to Alex and Henry, and how do they enhance the story?
7. McQuiston has provided a rich cast of supporting characters. Who is your favorite supporting character and why? Do you have any favorite secondary pairings? If so, who and why?
8. How do the concepts of community and found family play a part in the novel? How might Alex and Henry’s journey have differed without a support system of friends and family in place?
9. Red, White & Royal Blue takes place in a United States and United Kingdom that closely resemble our own but ultimately exist in an alternate universe. How do the politics in the book reflect what’s happening in the real world? Who are your favorite fictional political or royal figures in the book and why?
10. Why do readers have royal fever? What is it about royalty that sparks such interest? What did you think of this royal family? Did it make you think differently about real-life royal families?
11. The book ends with Alex’s Democrat mom, Ellen Claremont, winning a second term as President of the United States and Alex and Henry making plans for the future. What happens afterward for this cast of characters? Where do you see Alex and Henry in five years, in ten?
(Questions issued by publisher.)
LitLovers © 2022
1. Red, White & Royal Blue has fun with a number of romance tropes. Which ones are your favorites and why are they so appealing?
2. At the beginning of the novel, Alex and Henry are enemies, then they become friends, and eventually lovers. Why does their relationship work so well? How do they balance each other out?
3. What’s the most swoon-worthy moment in this book (if you can pick one)? What do you think is the biggest turning point for Alex and Henry’s relationship? Discuss.
4. McQuiston adds a great deal of LGBTQ+ historical context for Alex’s journey throughout the novel. In what ways is this important for both Alex and the reader?
5. Alex and Henry’s communication escalates from texts to phone calls, and eventually to intense emails that quote the love letters of historical figures. How does their correspondence add to the story?
6. While the book is about a romantic relationship at its core, there are a number of other relationships with friends, parents, and siblings throughout. How are these relationships important to Alex and Henry, and how do they enhance the story?
7. McQuiston has provided a rich cast of supporting characters. Who is your favorite supporting character and why? Do you have any favorite secondary pairings? If so, who and why?
8. How do the concepts of community and found family play a part in the novel? How might Alex and Henry’s journey have differed without a support system of friends and family in place?
9. Red, White & Royal Blue takes place in a United States and United Kingdom that closely resemble our own but ultimately exist in an alternate universe. How do the politics in the book reflect what’s happening in the real world? Who are your favorite fictional political or royal figures in the book and why?
10. Why do readers have royal fever? What is it about royalty that sparks such interest? What did you think of this royal family? Did it make you think differently about real-life royal families?
11. The book ends with Alex’s Democrat mom, Ellen Claremont, winning a second term as President of the United States and Alex and Henry making plans for the future. What happens afterward for this cast of characters? Where do you see Alex and Henry in five years, in ten?
(Questions issued by publisher.)
LitLovers © 2022
Love or Career? What will she choose this June. . .
The Fastest Way to Fall by Denise Williams Britta didn’t plan on falling for her personal trainer, and Wes didn’t plan on Britta. Plans change and it’s unclear if love, career, or both will meet them at the finish line. Britta Colby works for a lifestyle website, and when tasked to write about her experience with a hot new body-positive fitness app that includes personal coaching, she knows it’s a major opportunity to prove she should write for the site full-time. As CEO of the FitMe app, Wes Lawson finally has the financial security he grew up without, but despite his success, his floundering love life and complicated family situation leaves him feeling isolated and unfulfilled. He decides to get back to what he loves—coaching. Britta’s his first new client and they click immediately. As weeks pass, she’s surprised at how much she enjoys experimenting with her exercise routine. He’s surprised at how much he looks forward to talking to her every day. They convince themselves their attraction is harmless, but when they start working out in person, Wes and Britta find it increasingly challenging to deny their chemistry and maintain a professional distance. Wes isn’t supposed to be training clients, much less meeting with them, and Britta’s credibility will be sunk if the lifestyle site finds out she’s practically dating the fitness coach she’s reviewing. Walking away from each other is the smartest thing to do, but running side by side feels like the start of something big. |
Questions for Discussion. . .
1. Britta and Wes both find moments of strength individually. What was a time you felt strong?
2. Britta and Wes’s relationship begins through text and email. What have you found to be benefits of meeting someone digitally first? What are the downsides?
3. Wes carries guilt about his sister and the ways in which he believes he failed her. Did you relate to his struggle in some way?
4. This book is a slow burn romance. Discuss why you enjoy a slow buildup to a physically intimate connection or prefer a quick physical spark.
5. Britta and Claire are competitive throughout the book but realize their relationship was negatively influenced by the notion that women especially woman of color have to compete with one another.
6. Have you encountered that in a work setting? Did you find ways to move beyond competition to mutual support?
7. Wes struggles to reconcile his ethical principles with his growing feelings for Britta. What did you appreciate about his struggle to balance professional responsibilities with falling in love? What would you have preferred to be different?
8. Before the 10K. Wes tells Britta, “I love you. Now, go kick some ass. “ and during, he tells her “This (moment) isn’t ours. It’s yours.” How do you want a partner to cheer you on toward a goal? In what ways do you like to see that in love stories?
9. Britta takes opportunities to identify things about her body she loves. Have you taken time to do this for yourself?
1. Britta and Wes both find moments of strength individually. What was a time you felt strong?
2. Britta and Wes’s relationship begins through text and email. What have you found to be benefits of meeting someone digitally first? What are the downsides?
3. Wes carries guilt about his sister and the ways in which he believes he failed her. Did you relate to his struggle in some way?
4. This book is a slow burn romance. Discuss why you enjoy a slow buildup to a physically intimate connection or prefer a quick physical spark.
5. Britta and Claire are competitive throughout the book but realize their relationship was negatively influenced by the notion that women especially woman of color have to compete with one another.
6. Have you encountered that in a work setting? Did you find ways to move beyond competition to mutual support?
7. Wes struggles to reconcile his ethical principles with his growing feelings for Britta. What did you appreciate about his struggle to balance professional responsibilities with falling in love? What would you have preferred to be different?
8. Before the 10K. Wes tells Britta, “I love you. Now, go kick some ass. “ and during, he tells her “This (moment) isn’t ours. It’s yours.” How do you want a partner to cheer you on toward a goal? In what ways do you like to see that in love stories?
9. Britta takes opportunities to identify things about her body she loves. Have you taken time to do this for yourself?
Is it time to scrap this marriage? Find out this May in...
The Secret Ingredient for a Happy Marriage by Shirley Jump Nora has always been the sister who binds the O'Bannons together. No matter what crisis hits, smart, dependable Nora knows how to fix it. But for Nora, the pressure of perfection is taking its toll. Nora's marriage is in trouble, and she has been reluctant to worry her sisters with just how dire her situation is. Now though, faced with losing her husband, her home, and the life she's worked so hard to build, Nora can no longer pretend. As the O'Bannon women rally around her, Nora begins to see that failure is nothing to fear. It's like they say in the bakery: if you want to make something good, you can't be afraid to get messy. When her husband returns, asking Nora to give their family a second chance, Nora must decide if their relationship can be saved-or if it's time to throw out the old recipe and start from scratch. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. What do you think originally attracted Nora and Ben to one another? Nora explains how she and Ben met at a party and how she felt about him. How do you think he felt about her? How much of a relationship is set in the beginning and how are changes made as we grow?
2. Nora and Ben’s marriage is described as nearly perfect before his gambling changed it dramatically. Do you think it’s possible for one event to have such a strong influence? Or do you think their marriage would have had major problems without his gambling?
3. When Nora finds out that Sarah was in a playground fight, she doesn’t push for answers, choosing instead to ignore the problem for now. Do you think Nora’s tendency to put off reality contributed to the problems in her marriage?
4. Nora lies to her mother about her life, telling herself that it’s to protect her mother, just as she did when she was young. Why do you think Nora has done this for so long? Has it helped or hurt her family?
5. How do Nora’s weaknesses and vulnerabilities play into the story? How do her strengths? Do you see her as a likable character? A good sister?
6. Do you understand Ben? Did your belief in his guilt or recovery change throughout the course of the novel? How much did he contribute to his own problems? How did Nora contribute to them?
7. How does this novel explore the power of love, the danger of dishonesty, and the possibility of redemption? What aspects were you most drawn to-the family drama, the exploration of sisterhood, or the love story?
8. Nora thinks that Ben would have been the one to adopt the dog and lavish it with gifts. Yet, in the end, Nora does keep Chance. Why do you think she does that?
9. The Nora-Ben-Will triangle is one of the controversial developments in the novel. How does Will really feel about Nora? Do you think his interest was genuine and potentially long lasting? Did you think Ben’s jealousy was a valid and normal?
10. How do you feel about Nora keeping the miscarriage a secret from Ben? Is there room for secrets in a marriage? Where do you draw the line?
11. Marriages can get comfortable with the status quo, with each person carrying out their assigned role. When one person changes, it can upset the relationship, and one spouse may subconsciously try to the keep the other from changing. How does this concept come into play with Nora and Ben? Do you think a small part of Nora wanted Ben’s gambling ot continue to the be the reason their marriage wasn’t working? What did Ben have to gain by continuing to act irresponsibly and letting his children depend on Nora instead? If Ben has truly changed, how might that impact Nora’s role in their family?
12. Magpie’s decision about her baby takes time, since her true feelings seemed to slowly surface. She made some important decisions about her lifestyle when she was younger and doesn’t seem to want to acknowledge the chance in herself over the years. Can you relate to that? How and why do people hide their true desires from themselves?
13. What role did Nora’s relationship with her mother play in her adult life? What about Magpie’s relationship with her mother? What about Iris’s relationship with her mother?
14. Roger is far more trusting of Iris than Colleen is, despite the fact that he has seen and dealt with a lot of people who lie because of their addictions or circumstances. Why do you think he is more trusting?
15. The word ingredient in the title is used literally at the bakery and figuratively about Nora and Ben’s marriage. What do you think is a secret ingredient to a happy marriage? Do you think it is forgiveness or something else? Do you think Nora and Ben now have that ingredient in their marriage?
16. What do you predict in the future for Nora and Ben? For Colleen and Roger? For Magpie and her baby? For Iris?
1. What do you think originally attracted Nora and Ben to one another? Nora explains how she and Ben met at a party and how she felt about him. How do you think he felt about her? How much of a relationship is set in the beginning and how are changes made as we grow?
2. Nora and Ben’s marriage is described as nearly perfect before his gambling changed it dramatically. Do you think it’s possible for one event to have such a strong influence? Or do you think their marriage would have had major problems without his gambling?
3. When Nora finds out that Sarah was in a playground fight, she doesn’t push for answers, choosing instead to ignore the problem for now. Do you think Nora’s tendency to put off reality contributed to the problems in her marriage?
4. Nora lies to her mother about her life, telling herself that it’s to protect her mother, just as she did when she was young. Why do you think Nora has done this for so long? Has it helped or hurt her family?
5. How do Nora’s weaknesses and vulnerabilities play into the story? How do her strengths? Do you see her as a likable character? A good sister?
6. Do you understand Ben? Did your belief in his guilt or recovery change throughout the course of the novel? How much did he contribute to his own problems? How did Nora contribute to them?
7. How does this novel explore the power of love, the danger of dishonesty, and the possibility of redemption? What aspects were you most drawn to-the family drama, the exploration of sisterhood, or the love story?
8. Nora thinks that Ben would have been the one to adopt the dog and lavish it with gifts. Yet, in the end, Nora does keep Chance. Why do you think she does that?
9. The Nora-Ben-Will triangle is one of the controversial developments in the novel. How does Will really feel about Nora? Do you think his interest was genuine and potentially long lasting? Did you think Ben’s jealousy was a valid and normal?
10. How do you feel about Nora keeping the miscarriage a secret from Ben? Is there room for secrets in a marriage? Where do you draw the line?
11. Marriages can get comfortable with the status quo, with each person carrying out their assigned role. When one person changes, it can upset the relationship, and one spouse may subconsciously try to the keep the other from changing. How does this concept come into play with Nora and Ben? Do you think a small part of Nora wanted Ben’s gambling ot continue to the be the reason their marriage wasn’t working? What did Ben have to gain by continuing to act irresponsibly and letting his children depend on Nora instead? If Ben has truly changed, how might that impact Nora’s role in their family?
12. Magpie’s decision about her baby takes time, since her true feelings seemed to slowly surface. She made some important decisions about her lifestyle when she was younger and doesn’t seem to want to acknowledge the chance in herself over the years. Can you relate to that? How and why do people hide their true desires from themselves?
13. What role did Nora’s relationship with her mother play in her adult life? What about Magpie’s relationship with her mother? What about Iris’s relationship with her mother?
14. Roger is far more trusting of Iris than Colleen is, despite the fact that he has seen and dealt with a lot of people who lie because of their addictions or circumstances. Why do you think he is more trusting?
15. The word ingredient in the title is used literally at the bakery and figuratively about Nora and Ben’s marriage. What do you think is a secret ingredient to a happy marriage? Do you think it is forgiveness or something else? Do you think Nora and Ben now have that ingredient in their marriage?
16. What do you predict in the future for Nora and Ben? For Colleen and Roger? For Magpie and her baby? For Iris?
Will this waltz end in heartbreak? Find out this April in...
Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon In this romantic page-turner from the author of Everything, Everything and The Sun is Also a Star, Evie has the power to see other people's romantic fates--what will happen when she finally sees her own? Evie Thomas doesn't believe in love anymore. Especially after the strangest thing occurs one otherwise ordinary afternoon: She witnesses a couple kiss and is overcome with a vision of how their romance began . . . and how it will end. After all, even the greatest love stories end with a broken heart, eventually. As Evie tries to understand why this is happening, she finds herself at La Brea Dance Studio, learning to waltz, fox-trot, and tango with a boy named X. X is everything that Evie is not: adventurous, passionate, daring. His philosophy is to say yes to everything--including entering a ballroom dance competition with a girl he's only just met. Falling for X is definitely not what Evie had in mind. If her visions of heartbreak have taught her anything, it's that no one escapes love unscathed. But as she and X dance around and toward each other, Evie is forced to question all she thought she knew about life and love. In the end, is love worth the risk? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. As you know from her lists in the book, Evie is an expert on romantic tropes. Do you have a favorite and/or least favorite romance trope?
2. Evie’s ability to see other couples’ futures is never really explained, other than the fact that the woman with the Little Free Library gave her the power. Did that bother you, or did Yoon’s storytelling allow you to suspend disbelief?
3. When Evie is at Shirley’s bridal shower, she can’t help but resent her intrusion into the family. She thinks, “I know what I’m feeling isn’t exactly fair, but that doesn’t make it any less true.” How did you feel about Nicola Yoon’s exploration of grief through Evie’s character? Did it feel authentic? Did you ever get impatient with her or were you able to consistently empathize with her?
4. Overall, how did you feel about this book as a portrait of divorce? What about as a portrait of love?
5. Did X feel like a fully realized character for you? Or was he too much of a, to use Evie’s words, “Classic Romance Guy”?
6. So, Fifi! Did you love her, or did you find her cartoonish?
7. What did you think about the big twist near the end?
8. There’s a lot of fictional bands in YA literature, and some have killer names (Spinnerbait) while others… not so much (looking at you, Shooting Star). Where does X Machine rank for you?
1. As you know from her lists in the book, Evie is an expert on romantic tropes. Do you have a favorite and/or least favorite romance trope?
2. Evie’s ability to see other couples’ futures is never really explained, other than the fact that the woman with the Little Free Library gave her the power. Did that bother you, or did Yoon’s storytelling allow you to suspend disbelief?
3. When Evie is at Shirley’s bridal shower, she can’t help but resent her intrusion into the family. She thinks, “I know what I’m feeling isn’t exactly fair, but that doesn’t make it any less true.” How did you feel about Nicola Yoon’s exploration of grief through Evie’s character? Did it feel authentic? Did you ever get impatient with her or were you able to consistently empathize with her?
4. Overall, how did you feel about this book as a portrait of divorce? What about as a portrait of love?
5. Did X feel like a fully realized character for you? Or was he too much of a, to use Evie’s words, “Classic Romance Guy”?
6. So, Fifi! Did you love her, or did you find her cartoonish?
7. What did you think about the big twist near the end?
8. There’s a lot of fictional bands in YA literature, and some have killer names (Spinnerbait) while others… not so much (looking at you, Shooting Star). Where does X Machine rank for you?
Careful! Don't get catfished this March with...
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon What happens when three women discover , thanks to the live tweeting of a disastrous date, that they've all been duped by the same man? They become friends of course! Samiah Brooks never thought she would be 'that' girl. But a live tweet of a horrific date just revealed the painful truth: she's been catfished by a three-timing jerk of a boyfriend. Suddenly Samiah - along with his two other 'girlfriends', London and Taylor - have gone viral online. Now the three new besties are making a pact to spend the next six months investing in themselves. No men, no dating, and no worrying about their relationship status... For once Samiah is putting herself first, and that includes finally developing the app she's always dreamed of creating. Which is the exact moment she meets the deliciously sexy, honey-eyed Daniel Collins at work. What are the chances? When it comes to love, there's no such thing as a coincidence. But is Daniel really boyfriend material or is he maybe just a little too good to be true? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Did you find Samiah’s immediate friendship with Taylor and London plausible? Why or why not? How did they continue to support one another throughout the book? Do you see parallels with your own friendships?
2. Which of the three girlfriends do you relate most to and why?
3. Was it hard to read in 3rd person?
4. Was the couple's connection believable? If so, at what point did they click for you?
5. Samiah gives several examples of how difficult it is to be a Black woman in the tech industry. Were you surprised by any of her revelations? How do you feel about her serving as a model for others who come up behind her?
6. If you were signing on to your own boyfriend project, what would you devote more time to?
7. How has Samiah’s need for organization and order helped her in life? How has it hurt her?
8. If you were Samiah, would you have been able to trust Daniel?
9. Would you have forgiven his betrayal?
10. Did you like the mystery going on with the money laundering scheme?
11. Were you surprised who was behind it or did you already have it figured out?
12. Are there any lingering questions from the book you're still thinking about?
1. Did you find Samiah’s immediate friendship with Taylor and London plausible? Why or why not? How did they continue to support one another throughout the book? Do you see parallels with your own friendships?
2. Which of the three girlfriends do you relate most to and why?
3. Was it hard to read in 3rd person?
4. Was the couple's connection believable? If so, at what point did they click for you?
5. Samiah gives several examples of how difficult it is to be a Black woman in the tech industry. Were you surprised by any of her revelations? How do you feel about her serving as a model for others who come up behind her?
6. If you were signing on to your own boyfriend project, what would you devote more time to?
7. How has Samiah’s need for organization and order helped her in life? How has it hurt her?
8. If you were Samiah, would you have been able to trust Daniel?
9. Would you have forgiven his betrayal?
10. Did you like the mystery going on with the money laundering scheme?
11. Were you surprised who was behind it or did you already have it figured out?
12. Are there any lingering questions from the book you're still thinking about?
This book has a choice to make this February...
Everything After by Jill Santopolo The Light We Lost mixes with a touch of Daisy Jones and the Six in this novel of first love, passion, and the power of choice--and how we cannot escape the people we are meant to be. Two loves. Two choices. One chance to follow her dreams. Emily has come a long way since she lost her two passions fifteen years ago: music, and Rob. She's a psychologist at NYU who helps troubled college students like the one she once was. Together with her caring doctor husband, Ezra, she has a beautiful life. They're happy. They hope to start a family. But when a tragic event in Emily's present too closely echoes her past, and parts of her story that she'd hoped never to share come to light, her perfect life is suddenly upturned. Then Emily hears a song on the radio about the woman who got away. The melody and voice are hauntingly familiar. Could it be? As Emily's past passions come roaring back into her life, she'll find herself asking: Who is she meant to be? Who is she meant to love? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. In Everything After, Emily must face questions about who she is, what she wants, and whom she loves. Is there a time you have asked these same questions of yourself? If so, how did that journey lead to where you are today?
2. Emily and Rob had a whirlwind romance that ultimately took them down different paths. Who was your first love? What did that relationship teach you, and do you ever reminisce about it?
3. In chapter 44, Emily says, “Life was a blend of choices and not choices, things that we had control over and things we didn’t.” What are the things you have control over and the things you don’t in your life?
4. Ari and Priya are there for Emily through thick and thin, especially when she needs guidance. Do you have a Priya or Ari in your life? If so, share a moment when you felt your friend helped you through a tough situation.
5. What was your favorite scene, and why?
6. Loss and grief are two themes that Emily encounters in different points in her life. How do you feel she handled her grief, and what things might you have done differently if placed in her position?
7. Do you feel you are the same person now as you were five years ago? Ten years ago? How are you the same or different?
8. Do you think Emily and Ezra’s relationship was an accurate portrayal of marriage? What moments did you either relate to or not relate to?
9. Discuss what you think it truly means to be a mother, and the effect experiencing Emily’s loss has on a person.
10. Why do you think Emily is drawn to both Ezra and Rob? What makes each of them special in her life? Are you Team Rob or Team Ezra, and why?
11. Did the ending surprise you?
1. In Everything After, Emily must face questions about who she is, what she wants, and whom she loves. Is there a time you have asked these same questions of yourself? If so, how did that journey lead to where you are today?
2. Emily and Rob had a whirlwind romance that ultimately took them down different paths. Who was your first love? What did that relationship teach you, and do you ever reminisce about it?
3. In chapter 44, Emily says, “Life was a blend of choices and not choices, things that we had control over and things we didn’t.” What are the things you have control over and the things you don’t in your life?
4. Ari and Priya are there for Emily through thick and thin, especially when she needs guidance. Do you have a Priya or Ari in your life? If so, share a moment when you felt your friend helped you through a tough situation.
5. What was your favorite scene, and why?
6. Loss and grief are two themes that Emily encounters in different points in her life. How do you feel she handled her grief, and what things might you have done differently if placed in her position?
7. Do you feel you are the same person now as you were five years ago? Ten years ago? How are you the same or different?
8. Do you think Emily and Ezra’s relationship was an accurate portrayal of marriage? What moments did you either relate to or not relate to?
9. Discuss what you think it truly means to be a mother, and the effect experiencing Emily’s loss has on a person.
10. Why do you think Emily is drawn to both Ezra and Rob? What makes each of them special in her life? Are you Team Rob or Team Ezra, and why?
11. Did the ending surprise you?
Get Medieval this January with...
Well Met by Jen DeLuca Emily knew there would be strings attached when she relocated to the small town of Willow Creek, Maryland, for the summer to help her sister recover from an accident, but who could anticipate getting roped into volunteering for the local Renaissance Faire alongside her teenaged niece? Or that the irritating and inscrutable schoolteacher in charge of the volunteers would be so annoying that she finds it impossible to stop thinking about him? The faire is Simon's family legacy and from the start he makes clear he doesn't have time for Emily's lighthearted approach to life, her oddball Shakespeare conspiracy theories, or her endless suggestions for new acts to shake things up. Yet on the faire grounds he becomes a different person, flirting freely with Emily when she's in her revealing wench's costume. But is this attraction real, or just part of the characters they're portraying? This summer was only ever supposed to be a pit stop on the way to somewhere else for Emily, but soon she can't seem to shake the fantasy of establishing something more with Simon, or a permanent home of her own in Willow Creek. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. What do you think of the 1st person narration?
2. Does the first line, “I didn’t choose the wench life. The wench life choose me” make you want to keep reading?
3. Do you think making adults volunteer with kids that are under 16 is a good idea?
4. Do you like Emily?
5. Does Mitch seem like he could be the hero?
6. What do you think of the cool aunt dynamic?
7. Do you think Emily should be angrier with her ex, Jake, whom she helped put through law school?
8. What do you think of Simon at the beginning? He is uptight and standoffish
9. Would you want to participate in this particular Renaissance Faire?
10. Who is your favorite character?
11. Did the costuming details feel realistic?
12. Were you surprised that Simon’s brother Sean was dead?
13. What do you think of this view of a small town compared to some other romances?
14. Do you think being in costume makes it easier for people to flirt?
15. What did you think of the handfasting?
16. Is two guys fighting over the heroine romantic?
17. Why do you think Emily had to go to Simon’s house?
18. What did you think of the wooing?
19. Did the bookstore feel realistic?
20. What did you think of the conflict?
21. Why do you think Simon and Emily broke up? Simon was living in the past
22. Did you like the 2nd handfasting?
23. Was the proposal romantic?
24. Did you like the book?
25. Who else should have a story?
26. Would you read more by the author?
1. What do you think of the 1st person narration?
2. Does the first line, “I didn’t choose the wench life. The wench life choose me” make you want to keep reading?
3. Do you think making adults volunteer with kids that are under 16 is a good idea?
4. Do you like Emily?
5. Does Mitch seem like he could be the hero?
6. What do you think of the cool aunt dynamic?
7. Do you think Emily should be angrier with her ex, Jake, whom she helped put through law school?
8. What do you think of Simon at the beginning? He is uptight and standoffish
9. Would you want to participate in this particular Renaissance Faire?
10. Who is your favorite character?
11. Did the costuming details feel realistic?
12. Were you surprised that Simon’s brother Sean was dead?
13. What do you think of this view of a small town compared to some other romances?
14. Do you think being in costume makes it easier for people to flirt?
15. What did you think of the handfasting?
16. Is two guys fighting over the heroine romantic?
17. Why do you think Emily had to go to Simon’s house?
18. What did you think of the wooing?
19. Did the bookstore feel realistic?
20. What did you think of the conflict?
21. Why do you think Simon and Emily broke up? Simon was living in the past
22. Did you like the 2nd handfasting?
23. Was the proposal romantic?
24. Did you like the book?
25. Who else should have a story?
26. Would you read more by the author?
This Book's on Repeat for December...
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren It’s the most wonderful time of the year…but not for Maelyn Jones. She’s living with her parents, hates her going-nowhere job, and has just made a romantic error of epic proportions. But perhaps worst of all, this is the last Christmas Mae will be at her favorite place in the world—the snowy Utah cabin where she and her family have spent every holiday since she was born, along with two other beloved families. Mentally melting down as she drives away from the cabin for the final time, Mae throws out what she thinks is a simple plea to the universe: Please. Show me what will make me happy. The next thing she knows, tires screech and metal collides, everything goes black. But when Mae gasps awake…she’s on an airplane bound for Utah, where she begins the same holiday all over again. With one hilarious disaster after another sending her back to the plane, Mae must figure out how to break free of the strange time loop—and finally get her true love under the mistletoe. Jam-packed with yuletide cheer, an unforgettable cast of characters, and Christina Lauren’s trademark hijinks, this swoon-worthy romantic read will make you believe in the power of wishes and the magic of the holidays. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Let’s start at the beginning of the story where Mae is embarrassed that she made out with Theo. How do you think everything would have unfolded if this timeline remained?
2. Why do you think she made the wish: can you show me what will make me happy?
3. And suddenly, Mae is in a time loop where she’s experiencing the same holiday over and over. How do you think you would have reacted if you were Mae?
4. Mae has a couple of fails before she gets the hang of this time loop concept. She acts on her feelings for Andrew but also realizes she’s in a dead-end job that needs to change. How did this experience help her grow out of her people pleasing ways?
5. What did you think about the romance between Mae and Andrew?
6. Do you think Theo ever truly had feelings for her?
7. Mae tells Benny what’s going on and eventually it all comes to head and she reveals to Andrew what she’s experiencing. First, do you think he believed her?
8. Second, why did Andrew get so mad when he found out that she kissed Theo in the original timeline?
9. We never do find out why or how Mae is in this time loop. Did you want more explanation in that area?
10. If you had to relive a specific day over again, which day would that be and why?
11. What did you think about all the holiday-elements in this read?
12. Did you like the ending?
13. If they made this into a movie, who should star in the main roles?
1. Let’s start at the beginning of the story where Mae is embarrassed that she made out with Theo. How do you think everything would have unfolded if this timeline remained?
2. Why do you think she made the wish: can you show me what will make me happy?
3. And suddenly, Mae is in a time loop where she’s experiencing the same holiday over and over. How do you think you would have reacted if you were Mae?
4. Mae has a couple of fails before she gets the hang of this time loop concept. She acts on her feelings for Andrew but also realizes she’s in a dead-end job that needs to change. How did this experience help her grow out of her people pleasing ways?
5. What did you think about the romance between Mae and Andrew?
6. Do you think Theo ever truly had feelings for her?
7. Mae tells Benny what’s going on and eventually it all comes to head and she reveals to Andrew what she’s experiencing. First, do you think he believed her?
8. Second, why did Andrew get so mad when he found out that she kissed Theo in the original timeline?
9. We never do find out why or how Mae is in this time loop. Did you want more explanation in that area?
10. If you had to relive a specific day over again, which day would that be and why?
11. What did you think about all the holiday-elements in this read?
12. Did you like the ending?
13. If they made this into a movie, who should star in the main roles?
November's Talking About...
The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon Shay Goldstein has been a producer at her Seattle public radio station for nearly a decade, and she can't imagine working anywhere else. But lately it's been a constant clash between her and her newest colleague, Dominic Yun, who's fresh off a journalism master's program and convinced he knows everything about public radio. When the struggling station needs a new concept, Shay proposes a show that her boss green-lights with excitement. On The Ex Talk, two exes will deliver relationship advice live, on air. Their boss decides Shay and Dominic are the perfect co-hosts, given how much they already despise each other. Neither loves the idea of lying to listeners, but it's this or unemployment. Their audience gets invested fast, and it's not long before The Ex Talk becomes a must-listen in Seattle and climbs podcast charts. As the show gets bigger, so does their deception, especially when Shay and Dominic start to fall for each other. In an industry that values truth, getting caught could mean the end of more than just their careers. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. At the beginning of the book, Shay’s dislike toward Dominic centers on her feelings overshadowed by him at work. Is this something you have experienced? How did you handle it?
2. If you started this book with prior knowledge of public radio and podcasting. How did it change upon finished? If those worlds were new to you, what did you find the most interesting? What were you most surprised by?
3. Shay and Dominic set aside their journalistic integrity to lie on the air, through they’re a bit forced into by their boss. Was the show worth temporarily sacrificing their journalistic ethics, and do you feel they adequately come to terms with this by end of the book?
4. If you could read the book from Dominic’s point of view, what do you think his character arc would be?
5. In many romance novels with M/F parings, the male character is often the one who is more sexually experience, talking the alpha role in the bedroom. What did you think of the reversal of that dynamic in this book>? Did this match up with your expectations of Dominic’s character? Why or why not?
6. Do you think Shay and Dominic would have begun a relationship if not the The Ex talk? Did it jump start their relationship in a positive way or was it more a roadblock they needed to overcome?
7. Shay’s father passed away when she was in high school, but she is still living with grief. Do you think working public radio helped or hindered her in terms of processing that grief?
8. Kent, Shay’s boss, is an example of the quiet ways misogyny goes undetected in the workplace. Why do you think he was able to get away with it for so long?
9. Shay and Dominic often joke about their poor adulting skills. By the end of the book, in what ways would they find themselves successful? How has that definition of success changed over time?
10. What do you think the future holds for Shay’s and Dominic’s careers?
1. At the beginning of the book, Shay’s dislike toward Dominic centers on her feelings overshadowed by him at work. Is this something you have experienced? How did you handle it?
2. If you started this book with prior knowledge of public radio and podcasting. How did it change upon finished? If those worlds were new to you, what did you find the most interesting? What were you most surprised by?
3. Shay and Dominic set aside their journalistic integrity to lie on the air, through they’re a bit forced into by their boss. Was the show worth temporarily sacrificing their journalistic ethics, and do you feel they adequately come to terms with this by end of the book?
4. If you could read the book from Dominic’s point of view, what do you think his character arc would be?
5. In many romance novels with M/F parings, the male character is often the one who is more sexually experience, talking the alpha role in the bedroom. What did you think of the reversal of that dynamic in this book>? Did this match up with your expectations of Dominic’s character? Why or why not?
6. Do you think Shay and Dominic would have begun a relationship if not the The Ex talk? Did it jump start their relationship in a positive way or was it more a roadblock they needed to overcome?
7. Shay’s father passed away when she was in high school, but she is still living with grief. Do you think working public radio helped or hindered her in terms of processing that grief?
8. Kent, Shay’s boss, is an example of the quiet ways misogyny goes undetected in the workplace. Why do you think he was able to get away with it for so long?
9. Shay and Dominic often joke about their poor adulting skills. By the end of the book, in what ways would they find themselves successful? How has that definition of success changed over time?
10. What do you think the future holds for Shay’s and Dominic’s careers?
Possessing Your October...
Layla by Colleen Hoover When Leeds meets Layla, he’s convinced he’ll spend the rest of his life with her—until an unexpected attack leaves Layla fighting for her life. After weeks in the hospital, Layla recovers physically, but the emotional and mental scarring has altered the woman Leeds fell in love with. In order to put their relationship back on track, Leeds whisks Layla away to the bed-and-breakfast where they first met. Once they arrive, Layla’s behavior takes a bizarre turn. And that’s just one of many inexplicable occurrences. Feeling distant from Layla, Leeds soon finds solace in Willow—another guest of the B&B with whom he forms a connection through their shared concerns. As his curiosity for Willow grows, his decision to help her find answers puts him in direct conflict with Layla’s well-being. Leeds soon realizes he has to make a choice because he can’t help both of them. But if he makes the wrong choice, it could be detrimental for all of them. |
Questions for Discussion...
- What did you think was happening at the beginning with Layla tied up upstairs?
- What did you think of Leeds throughout, was he redeemed?
- What do you think about Leed eating her hair to anchor her?
- What did you think about the detective’s explanation of the Sable/ Layla soul issue?
- What did you think when sable wasn’t arrested?
- When Layla was in the body, she had different mannerisms. Memories were separate from souls and was that how he could tell them apart?
- Did you like the ending? Was it too perfect?
- What did you think about the suicide note?
- Where would you haunt?
Breaking into Your September...
The Witness by Nora Roberts Daughter of a controlling mother, Elizabeth finally let loose one night, drinking at a nightclub and allowing a strange man's seductive Russian accent lure her to a house on Lake Shore Drive. The events that followed changed her life forever. Twelve years later, the woman known as Abigail Lowery lives on the outskirts of a small town in the Ozarks. A freelance programmer, she designs sophisticated security systems -- and supplements her own security with a fierce dog and an assortment of firearms. She keeps to herself, saying little, revealing nothing. But Abigail's reserve only intrigues police chief Brooks Gleason. Her logical mind, her secretive nature, and her unromantic viewpoints leave him fascinated but frustrated. He suspects that Abigail needs protection from something -- and that her elaborate defenses hide a story that must be revealed. With a quirky, unforgettable heroine and a pulse-pounding plotline, Nora Roberts presents a riveting new read that cements her place as today's most reliably entertaining thriller -- and will leave people hungering for more. |
Questions for Discussion...
- Would you say that this was a character-driven story, or more plot-driven?
- What (if anything) made this story unique from other NR books?
- Which character were you able to connect to the most, or which character did you struggle the most to connect to? Abigail, Brooks?
- How did you feel about the pacing of the story? Did things move too quickly, not quickly enough, or just right?
- If NR were to turn this book into a series, which secondary character would you want to have in the lead role for Book 2?
- If this book were being made into a movie, who would you want to cast for the lead roles
- Would you say that this was a character-driven story, or more plot-driven?
- What was your opinion on Elizabeth’s mother?
- Do you think when children are raised strict as Elizabeth was, that every child would rebel eventually?
- When Abigal is in the hospital near the end of book, did you ever think that her mother would reappear back into her life or do you think she never wanted to be a mother in the first place?
- How do you feel about the ending?
Flying in For August...
The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker Calla Fletcher wasn't even two when her mother took her and fled the Alaskan wild, unable to handle the isolation of the extreme, rural lifestyle, leaving behind Calla’s father, Wren Fletcher, in the process. Calla never looked back, and at twenty-six, a busy life in Toronto is all she knows. But when Calla learns that Wren’s days may be numbered, she knows that it’s time to make the long trip back to the remote frontier town where she was born. She braves the roaming wildlife, the odd daylight hours, the exorbitant prices, and even the occasional—dear God—outhouse, all for the chance to connect with her father: a man who, despite his many faults, she can’t help but care for. While she struggles to adjust to this rugged environment, Jonah—the unkempt, obnoxious, and proud Alaskan pilot who helps keep her father’s charter plane company operational—can’t imagine calling anywhere else home. And he’s clearly waiting with one hand on the throttle to fly this city girl back to where she belongs, convinced that she’s too pampered to handle the wild. Jonah is probably right, but Calla is determined to prove him wrong. Soon, she finds herself forming an unexpected bond with the burly pilot. As his undercurrent of disapproval dwindles, it’s replaced by friendship—or perhaps something deeper? But Calla is not in Alaska to stay and Jonah will never leave. It would be foolish of her to kindle a romance, to take the same path her parents tried—and failed at—years ago. It’s a simple truth that turns out to be not so simple after all. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. If you were to move to Bangor, Alaska, what luxury would be the hardest for
you to live without?
2. Calla and Jonah both feel strongly about the benefits of their preferred living
environment. What are some of the advantages of living in a city? What are some
of the upsides of living in a more rural area?
3. The book’s title, The Simple Wild, is echoed in characters’ descriptions of
Alaska. Discuss what you think “simple” means in this context. Why do you think
the author chose this title? What is its significance in the novel?
4. Calla goes through a number of life-changing experiences, including meeting
her father in person for the first time since she was a toddler, traveling around
rural Alaska and seeing how people live there, her father’s illness, and meeting
Jonah. How do Calla, Jonah, and Wren’s characters develop over the course of
the book as a result of these experiences?
5. For Wren and Susan, their respective desires about where to live were deal
breakers, despite their love for each other. What are your deal breakers? Are
there things about your life that you would be unwilling to let go of if your
partner or a potential partner wouldn’t or couldn’t agree to them, no matter how
much you loved that person?
6. Simon serves as a voice of reason for Calla and is able to remain objective and
compassionate, despite being emotionally involved both as her stepfather and as
Susan’s husband. Although he doesn’t share his feelings with Calla, what do you
think this story was like from his perspective?
7. As Calla gets to know her father, there is a lot of discussion of regret, both his
own regrets in life and the possibility that Calla could regret not spending more
time with him if he doesn’t survive his illness. Do you think Calla’s decisions
helped alleviate remorse on either side, or is it in some way unavoidable for each
of them to experience?
8. After Jonah’s plane crashes, Calla’s mother, Susan, tells her about the constant
anxiety she had about Wren’s safety in his work as a bush pilot. Jonah plans to
continue to work as a bush pilot for the rest of his life. How do you think this will
affect his relationship with Calla in the future? Will Calla develop the same
anxieties her mother held?
9. Ultimately, Jonah attempts to find a compromise that he and Calla will both be
happy with. Do you think they will be able to make their relationship work?
1. If you were to move to Bangor, Alaska, what luxury would be the hardest for
you to live without?
2. Calla and Jonah both feel strongly about the benefits of their preferred living
environment. What are some of the advantages of living in a city? What are some
of the upsides of living in a more rural area?
3. The book’s title, The Simple Wild, is echoed in characters’ descriptions of
Alaska. Discuss what you think “simple” means in this context. Why do you think
the author chose this title? What is its significance in the novel?
4. Calla goes through a number of life-changing experiences, including meeting
her father in person for the first time since she was a toddler, traveling around
rural Alaska and seeing how people live there, her father’s illness, and meeting
Jonah. How do Calla, Jonah, and Wren’s characters develop over the course of
the book as a result of these experiences?
5. For Wren and Susan, their respective desires about where to live were deal
breakers, despite their love for each other. What are your deal breakers? Are
there things about your life that you would be unwilling to let go of if your
partner or a potential partner wouldn’t or couldn’t agree to them, no matter how
much you loved that person?
6. Simon serves as a voice of reason for Calla and is able to remain objective and
compassionate, despite being emotionally involved both as her stepfather and as
Susan’s husband. Although he doesn’t share his feelings with Calla, what do you
think this story was like from his perspective?
7. As Calla gets to know her father, there is a lot of discussion of regret, both his
own regrets in life and the possibility that Calla could regret not spending more
time with him if he doesn’t survive his illness. Do you think Calla’s decisions
helped alleviate remorse on either side, or is it in some way unavoidable for each
of them to experience?
8. After Jonah’s plane crashes, Calla’s mother, Susan, tells her about the constant
anxiety she had about Wren’s safety in his work as a bush pilot. Jonah plans to
continue to work as a bush pilot for the rest of his life. How do you think this will
affect his relationship with Calla in the future? Will Calla develop the same
anxieties her mother held?
9. Ultimately, Jonah attempts to find a compromise that he and Calla will both be
happy with. Do you think they will be able to make their relationship work?
Ringing in for July...
Wrong Number, Right Guy by Elle Casey When a mysterious text message summons May Wexler to a biker bar in downtown New Orleans, she knows something is very wrong. Her sister has sent out an SOS, but when May gets there, she’s nowhere to be found and May is the one in trouble—she’s wearing pink espadrilles, she’s got a Chihuahua in her purse, and she’s in the middle of a shootout. After tall, muscular Ozzie comes to her rescue, May has no choice but to follow him to safety. At the headquarters of his private security firm, the Bourbon Street Boys, she finds a refuge for the night—and the offer of a job. But it’s not long before a gun-toting stalker isn’t the only complication in May’s life: the more time she spends with Ozzie, the less she can deny that they’ve got some serious chemistry. A wrong number got her into this mess…Will it also get her the right guy? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Our author lives in France. Could you ever move out of the country? Why or why not? She recently moved to Tennessee
2. If you received a weird text message, from someone close to you and they had told you to meet them at a location you have never been, would you meet them?
3. Have you ever had an auto correct completely change what you were trying to text?
4. Did you like getting into May’s head and her inner thoughts (first person view)?
5. Did you like the insta connection that May and Ozzie shared?
6. Sahara and Felix it definitely had a connection. Can you imagine how funny it must being the huge size difference between them.
7. Do you think it was fair for everyone to judge May, just from her appearance?
8. Has anyone ever been to New Orleans?
9. Dev should have learned his lesson on sneak attacking May. He always paid for it. She surprised herself on what she was capable of.
10. Ozzy is a hard person to get to know but someone like May can break down his walls. How do you think she does this?
11. What do you think Toni’s problem was with May?
12. Do you think it is realistic for May to go from wedding photographer to surveillance photographer?
13. Have you ever flown a drone before?
14. Our author has a winery in France, if you drink wine; do you prefer red or white?
15. Do think Toni has a hard time of letting go of the past and having a hard time moving on, after all, she has been through.
1. Our author lives in France. Could you ever move out of the country? Why or why not? She recently moved to Tennessee
2. If you received a weird text message, from someone close to you and they had told you to meet them at a location you have never been, would you meet them?
3. Have you ever had an auto correct completely change what you were trying to text?
4. Did you like getting into May’s head and her inner thoughts (first person view)?
5. Did you like the insta connection that May and Ozzie shared?
6. Sahara and Felix it definitely had a connection. Can you imagine how funny it must being the huge size difference between them.
7. Do you think it was fair for everyone to judge May, just from her appearance?
8. Has anyone ever been to New Orleans?
9. Dev should have learned his lesson on sneak attacking May. He always paid for it. She surprised herself on what she was capable of.
10. Ozzy is a hard person to get to know but someone like May can break down his walls. How do you think she does this?
11. What do you think Toni’s problem was with May?
12. Do you think it is realistic for May to go from wedding photographer to surveillance photographer?
13. Have you ever flown a drone before?
14. Our author has a winery in France, if you drink wine; do you prefer red or white?
15. Do think Toni has a hard time of letting go of the past and having a hard time moving on, after all, she has been through.
Downloading in this June...
The Right Swipe by Alisha Rai Rhiannon Hunter may have revolutionized romance in the digital world, but in real life she only swipes right on her career—and the occasional hookup. The cynical dating app creator controls her love life with a few key rules: - Nude pics are by invitation only - If someone stands you up, block them with extreme prejudice - Protect your heart Only there aren't any rules to govern her attraction to her newest match, former pro-football player Samson Lima. The sexy and seemingly sweet hunk woos her one magical night... and disappears. Rhi thought she'd buried her hurt over Samson ghosting her, until he suddenly surfaces months later, still big, still beautiful—and in league with a business rival. He says he won't fumble their second chance, but she's wary. A temporary physical partnership is one thing, but a merger of hearts? Surely that’s too high a risk… |
Questions for Discussion...
- What did you think of Rhiannon and Samson’s relationship? Healthy? Unhealthy?
- What were your thoughts on Rhi’s personal rules for dating? Did you find the rules too stringent? Not stringent enough?
- Both Rhi and Samson have some pretty significant back stories. What did you think of them? Did you like one more than the other?
- What were your opinions on the CTE subplot? How aware were you of CTE before this book?
- Rhi has a number of roadblocks she has to deal with being a Black woman in the dating app industry. Did you think that Rai did a good job balancing these themes with the plot?
- This is the first in a series. Assuming the next books are going to follow side characters, whose story would you like to hear in the coming books?
Sprouting up this May...
The Happy Ever After Playlist by Abby Jimenez Two years after losing her fiancé, Sloan Monroe still can't seem to get her life back on track. But one trouble-making pup with a "take me home" look in his eyes is about to change everything. With her new pet by her side, Sloan finally starts to feel more like herself. Then, after weeks of unanswered texts, Tucker's owner reaches out. He's a musician on tour in Australia. And bottom line: He wants Tucker back. Well, Sloan's not about to give up her dog without a fight. As their flirty texts turn into long calls, Sloan can't deny a connection. There's no telling what could happen when they meet in person. The question is: With his music career on the rise, how long will Jason really stick around? And is it possible for Sloan to survive another heartbreak? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Did your opinion of the characters change throughout the story?
2. In the entertainment industry do you think this really happens on this scale or is it exaggerated?
3. Do you like how the book switches perspective?
1. Did your opinion of the characters change throughout the story?
2. In the entertainment industry do you think this really happens on this scale or is it exaggerated?
3. Do you like how the book switches perspective?
Falling into April is...
Beach Read by Emily Henry Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast. They're polar opposites. In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they're living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer's block. Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She'll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he'll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. We first meet January when she has arrived at her father’s beach house. She seems broken: she has lost her dad and she is suffering from writer’s block. What was your first impression of January?
2. She talks about not having much money, why do you think she decided to live in the house first before she sells it.
3. In addition to losing her dad, she finds out he cheated on her mom for years with a woman in the same town as this beach house. Let us talk about how finding out that truth about her father caused her writer’s block and limited her ability to write any more romance novels.
4. It turns out her next-door neighbor is none other than her college rival, Gus Everett. She is horrified and annoyed. What did you think about their banter and initial dynamics? Could you tell than that they had feelings for each other?
5. There is many discussions of the merits of women’s fiction. January feels annoyed she must always defend it and remarks that if women’s fiction were written by a man and featured a male protagonist, it would be considered the Great American Novel. Why do you think some readers seem to look down upon women’s fiction and romance?
6. Both January and Gus are suffering from writer’s block and eventually decide to switch genres with both giving lessons on their respective genres to the others. Why do you think they decided to make this change? What did they both learn from each other on this journey?
7. We follow the stories they are writing in great detail. Would you read either of those stories?
8. What did you think about the slow-burn romance between the two of them?
9. Every time they get too close, Gus runs away (literally). We eventually learn that Gus is separated from his wife because his wife cheated on him with his best friend. Why do you think Gus ran when he got too close to January?
10. While feeling such anger and disappointment with her father’s decision, she finally reads the notes to her toward the end and forgives him. Let’s talk about this.
11. The story ends with Gus and January being engaged. Do you think they are in it for the long haul?
1. We first meet January when she has arrived at her father’s beach house. She seems broken: she has lost her dad and she is suffering from writer’s block. What was your first impression of January?
2. She talks about not having much money, why do you think she decided to live in the house first before she sells it.
3. In addition to losing her dad, she finds out he cheated on her mom for years with a woman in the same town as this beach house. Let us talk about how finding out that truth about her father caused her writer’s block and limited her ability to write any more romance novels.
4. It turns out her next-door neighbor is none other than her college rival, Gus Everett. She is horrified and annoyed. What did you think about their banter and initial dynamics? Could you tell than that they had feelings for each other?
5. There is many discussions of the merits of women’s fiction. January feels annoyed she must always defend it and remarks that if women’s fiction were written by a man and featured a male protagonist, it would be considered the Great American Novel. Why do you think some readers seem to look down upon women’s fiction and romance?
6. Both January and Gus are suffering from writer’s block and eventually decide to switch genres with both giving lessons on their respective genres to the others. Why do you think they decided to make this change? What did they both learn from each other on this journey?
7. We follow the stories they are writing in great detail. Would you read either of those stories?
8. What did you think about the slow-burn romance between the two of them?
9. Every time they get too close, Gus runs away (literally). We eventually learn that Gus is separated from his wife because his wife cheated on him with his best friend. Why do you think Gus ran when he got too close to January?
10. While feeling such anger and disappointment with her father’s decision, she finally reads the notes to her toward the end and forgives him. Let’s talk about this.
11. The story ends with Gus and January being engaged. Do you think they are in it for the long haul?
Coming this March...
The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory When someone asks you to spend your life with him, it shouldn't come as a surprise--or happen in front of 45,000 people. When freelance writer Nikole Paterson goes to a Dodgers game with her actor boyfriend, his man bun, and his bros, the last thing she expects is a scoreboard proposal. Saying no isn't the hard part--they've only been dating for five months, and he can't even spell her name correctly. The hard part is having to face a stadium full of disappointed fans... At the game with his sister, Carlos Ibarra comes to Nik's rescue and rushes her away from a camera crew. He's even there for her when the video goes viral and Nik's social media blows up--in a bad way. Nik knows that in the wilds of LA, a handsome doctor like Carlos can't be looking for anything serious, so she embarks on an epic rebound with him, filled with food, fun, and fantastic sex. But when their glorified hookups start breaking the rules, one of them has to be smart enough to put on the brakes... |
Questions for Discussion...
- The best place to start your discussion for The Proposal is to talk about Nik and Carlos: do you sympathize with them or dislike them … and why? Why do they make the decisions they do, what motivates them?
- What were your expectations for the couple over the course of the novel? Did those expectations, or hopes, pan out?
- What about your own life? Do any of the events or situations in The Proposal relate to something that has ever happened (or is happening) to you?
- In this day and age, social media is inescapable. How would you react if you went viral for a mishap?
- Communication plays a huge role in any relationship, and in both of Nik’s romantic relationships with Fisher and Carlos, neither of them are on the same page. How could this have been solved? Have you ever had communication issues in a relationship that spiraled out of control?
- Nik and Carlos both think they can have physical relationship without getting their feelings involved. Do you think it’s possible to have a successful friends-with-benefits relationship?
- What are the first clues that Nik and Carlos start to feel something more for each other?
- Carlos woos Nik with his amazing cooking skills. Have you ever had a date cook you a meal that impressed you? What was it?
- Grief is never easy to get through. Discuss how the death of Carlo’s father impacts his life and relationships.
- Even though he’s a doctor, Carlos refuses to get a wellness physical. Discuss why Carlos won’t see a doctor. Do you have any similar contradictions in your life?
- After Nik’s encounter with Fisher, she signs up for a self-defense classes with friends. Have you ever taken a self-defense class? Was there ever a time you wish you had, or were thankful you had?
- Have you ever had a relationship, romantic or nonromantic, that you thought would be casual but ended up being very meaningful to your life?
February's love story...
When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon Dimple Shah has it all figured out. With graduation behind her, she’s more than ready for a break from her family—and from Mamma’s inexplicable obsession with her finding the “Ideal Indian Husband.” Ugh. Dimple knows they must respect her principles on some level, though. If they truly believed she needed a husband right now, they wouldn’t have paid for her to attend a summer program for aspiring web developers…right? Rishi Patel is a hopeless romantic. So when his parents tell him that his future wife will be attending the same summer program—wherein he’ll have to woo her—he’s totally on board. Because as silly as it sounds to most people in his life, Rishi wants to be arranged, believes in the power of tradition, stability, and being a part of something much bigger than himself. The Shahs and Patels didn’t mean to start turning the wheels on this “suggested arrangement” so early in their children’s lives, but when they noticed them both gravitating toward the same summer program, they figured, Why not? Dimple and Rishi may think they have each other figured out. But when opposites clash, love works hard to prove itself in the most unexpected ways. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. What was your first impression of Dimple?
2. What was your first impression of Rishi?
3. What are Dimples strengths and weakness?
4. What are Rishi’s strengths and weakness?
5. Rishi’s ability to confront injustice and disrespectful behavior. Dimple is intense and Rishi is generally a much more relaxed type of person, but he does not let people push him or others around. His relaxed demeanor does not mean he is weak or doesn’t care. He steps up and doesn’t try to simply ignore or smooth over the bad behavior of others.
6. Rishi was very proud of his culture and the traditions that are in it. He seems to lose himself by taking on the burden for what his future should be, the way he referred to his art as a hobby when it clearly was his passion. How does Dimple help him with that?
7. What are your views on arrange marriage? Do you think Dimple’s parents should have told her about Rishi before she went to her Summer event?
8. What do you think about the relationship between Dimple and her Mother?
a. I loved that the competition brought out both their strengths and their weaknesses because both Dimple and Rishi were able to be real with each other – see their positive and negative qualities. I felt like the competition allowed them to have a deeper connection because they had to use their combined talents to participate in the competition.
One thing that was surprising for me and for Dimple was. He addresses it.
b. Definitely one of my favorite thing about any romance is the “they help each other be their best selves” kind of dynamic. The focus on Dimple and Rishi’s respective goals helped give their growing relationship some added complexity, which I loved.
1. What was your first impression of Dimple?
2. What was your first impression of Rishi?
3. What are Dimples strengths and weakness?
4. What are Rishi’s strengths and weakness?
5. Rishi’s ability to confront injustice and disrespectful behavior. Dimple is intense and Rishi is generally a much more relaxed type of person, but he does not let people push him or others around. His relaxed demeanor does not mean he is weak or doesn’t care. He steps up and doesn’t try to simply ignore or smooth over the bad behavior of others.
6. Rishi was very proud of his culture and the traditions that are in it. He seems to lose himself by taking on the burden for what his future should be, the way he referred to his art as a hobby when it clearly was his passion. How does Dimple help him with that?
7. What are your views on arrange marriage? Do you think Dimple’s parents should have told her about Rishi before she went to her Summer event?
8. What do you think about the relationship between Dimple and her Mother?
a. I loved that the competition brought out both their strengths and their weaknesses because both Dimple and Rishi were able to be real with each other – see their positive and negative qualities. I felt like the competition allowed them to have a deeper connection because they had to use their combined talents to participate in the competition.
One thing that was surprising for me and for Dimple was. He addresses it.
b. Definitely one of my favorite thing about any romance is the “they help each other be their best selves” kind of dynamic. The focus on Dimple and Rishi’s respective goals helped give their growing relationship some added complexity, which I loved.
The hot romance for January...
The Bromance Book Club, by Lyssa Kay Adams Nashville Legends second baseman Gavin Scott's marriage is in major league trouble. He’s recently discovered a humiliating secret: his wife Thea has always faked the Big O. When he loses his cool at the revelation, it’s the final straw on their already strained relationship. Thea asks for a divorce, and Gavin realizes he’s let his pride and fear get the better of him. Welcome to the Bromance Book Club. Distraught and desperate, Gavin finds help from an unlikely source: a secret romance book club made up of Nashville's top alpha men. With the help of their current read, a steamy Regency titled Courting the Countess, the guys coach Gavin on saving his marriage. But it'll take a lot more than flowery words and grand gestures for this hapless Romeo to find his inner hero and win back the trust of his wife. |
Questions for Discussion...
Discussion Questions for The Bromance Book Club
1. What did you think of Gavin’s reaction to finding out Thea had been faking orgasms? Do you think Thea still would have asked if a divorce if he’d reacted differently?
2. In what ways do you think the book challenges gender roles and stereotypes?
3. Did you like the inclusion of the excerpts from Courting the Countess? How did that story overlap with Gavin and Thea’s story?
4. What did you think about the relationship advice the men gave Gavin?
5. How did you feel about Thea’s reaction when she discovered Gavin’s hidden romance novels and learned he was using Lord Benedict’s words on her?
6. Why do you think Thea had a hard time getting along with the WAGs? And why do you think Rachel in particular was so mean?
7. Discuss how Thea and Liz’s early life experiences influenced their present day actions.
Discussion Questions for The Bromance Book Club
1. What did you think of Gavin’s reaction to finding out Thea had been faking orgasms? Do you think Thea still would have asked if a divorce if he’d reacted differently?
2. In what ways do you think the book challenges gender roles and stereotypes?
3. Did you like the inclusion of the excerpts from Courting the Countess? How did that story overlap with Gavin and Thea’s story?
4. What did you think about the relationship advice the men gave Gavin?
5. How did you feel about Thea’s reaction when she discovered Gavin’s hidden romance novels and learned he was using Lord Benedict’s words on her?
6. Why do you think Thea had a hard time getting along with the WAGs? And why do you think Rachel in particular was so mean?
7. Discuss how Thea and Liz’s early life experiences influenced their present day actions.
The December Pick is...
One Day in December by Josie Silver Laurie is pretty sure love at first sight doesn't exist anywhere but the movies. But then, through a misted-up bus window one snowy December day, she sees a man who she knows instantly is the one. Their eyes meet, there's a moment of pure magic...and then her bus drives away. Certain they're fated to find each other again, Laurie spends a year scanning every bus stop and cafe in London for him. But she doesn't find him, not when it matters anyway. Instead they "reunite" at a Christmas party, when her best friend Sarah giddily introduces her new boyfriend to Laurie. It's Jack, the man from the bus. It would be. What follows for Laurie, Sarah and Jack is ten years of friendship, heartbreak, missed opportunities, roads not taken, and destinies reconsidered. One Day in December is a joyous, heartwarming and immensely moving love story to escape into and a reminder that fate takes inexplicable turns along the route to happiness. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. How would you describe the connection Laurie felt upon first seeing Jack? How do you think he perceived her when he saw her from the bus stop? Have you ever felt a similar connection with someone?
2. Why didn’t Laurie tell Sarah that Jack was the person she’d been looking for?
3. How similar are Laurie and Sarah? In what ways do their personalities differ? Which character do you identify with?
4. Why do you think Jack doesn’t admit to Laurie that he remembers her from the bus stop?
5. Should Sarah have noticed the tension between Laurie and Jack?
6. Is it realistic for Laurie and Jack to try to be friends considering their feelings for each other? Why do you think they try so hard to remain friendly?
7. How does Laurie’s relationship with Oscar compare to her relationship with Jack? Is it possible for her to love them both simultaneously?
8. On page 209 Laurie notes that she’s been conflicted about “how much information constitutes the truth, how much omission constitutes lying.” Do you think she’s lying to Oscar and/or Sarah considering what she hasn’t revealed to each of them?
9. Laurie describes the flowers Jack sends her as “lush and extravagant . . . but then in the shortest time they’re not very lovely at all. They wilt and they turn the water brown, and soon you can’t hold on to them any longer.” Do any of her relationships also fit this description?
10. How does Laurie cope with loss, in terms of family members, romantic interests, and friends?
11. By the end of the story both Laurie and Jack have grown and changed significantly. How do these changes affect their relationship?
12. How do Laurie’s New Year’s resolutions evolve through the years?
1. How would you describe the connection Laurie felt upon first seeing Jack? How do you think he perceived her when he saw her from the bus stop? Have you ever felt a similar connection with someone?
2. Why didn’t Laurie tell Sarah that Jack was the person she’d been looking for?
3. How similar are Laurie and Sarah? In what ways do their personalities differ? Which character do you identify with?
4. Why do you think Jack doesn’t admit to Laurie that he remembers her from the bus stop?
5. Should Sarah have noticed the tension between Laurie and Jack?
6. Is it realistic for Laurie and Jack to try to be friends considering their feelings for each other? Why do you think they try so hard to remain friendly?
7. How does Laurie’s relationship with Oscar compare to her relationship with Jack? Is it possible for her to love them both simultaneously?
8. On page 209 Laurie notes that she’s been conflicted about “how much information constitutes the truth, how much omission constitutes lying.” Do you think she’s lying to Oscar and/or Sarah considering what she hasn’t revealed to each of them?
9. Laurie describes the flowers Jack sends her as “lush and extravagant . . . but then in the shortest time they’re not very lovely at all. They wilt and they turn the water brown, and soon you can’t hold on to them any longer.” Do any of her relationships also fit this description?
10. How does Laurie cope with loss, in terms of family members, romantic interests, and friends?
11. By the end of the story both Laurie and Jack have grown and changed significantly. How do these changes affect their relationship?
12. How do Laurie’s New Year’s resolutions evolve through the years?
Our November selection is...
The Bride Test by Helen Hoang Khai Diep has no feelings. Well, he feels irritation when people move his things or contentment when ledgers balance down to the penny, but not big, important emotions—like grief. And love. He thinks he's defective. His family knows better—that his autism means he just processes emotions differently. When he steadfastly avoids relationships, his mother takes matters into her own hands and returns to Vietnam to find him the perfect bride. As a mixed-race girl living in the slums of Ho Chi Minh City, Esme Tran has always felt out of place. When the opportunity arises to come to America and meet a potential husband, she can't turn it down, thinking this could be the break her family needs. Seducing Khai, however, doesn't go as planned. Esme's lessons in love seem to be working...but only on herself. She's hopelessly smitten with a man who's convinced he can never return her affection. With Esme's time in the United States dwindling, Khai is forced to understand he's been wrong all along. And there's more than one way to love. (From the publisher.) |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Khai grew up in America, while My was born and raised in a small village in Vietnam. What cultural differences can you see and how do you think this affects who they are now?
2. In the beginning of the book, Khai’s mother is in Vietnam to search for a wife for Khai. Do you think it’s wrong of his mother to meddle and interfere in his personal life, or is this justified as an act of love?
3. Prior to reading this book, how would you have imagined an autistic man? How does Khai compare to this vision?
4. Throughout the book, Khai is adamant about not having feelings, thus creating a chasm between him and everyone else. When do you see a breakthrough in this way of thinking? How does My help with this?
5. Khai memorizes a set of rules that his sister made him that lists what he should do when he’s with a girl (page 37). Do you agree with this list?
6. Though My originally goes to America with the purpose of seducing Khai, a lot of her time is spent going to night school and working at Co Nga’s restaurant. This reflects the hard work that immigrants go through to build a life in the U.S. Can you or anyone you know relate to this?
7. My lies to Khai about her occupation and tells him that she’s an accountant. She does this because she’s embarrassed by her sta-tion in life but also to feel some sort of connection to him. Should she have just told him the truth from the beginning or do you think her lie helps bring them together at least a little?
8. As adamant as Khai is about not loving My, he does things for her that show how much he does care about her, such as carrying her and helping to find her father. What other ways does he show he loves her?
9. At the end of the book, Khai tells My he loves her in Vietnamese. What is the significance of this?
(Questions issued by the publisher.)
1. Khai grew up in America, while My was born and raised in a small village in Vietnam. What cultural differences can you see and how do you think this affects who they are now?
2. In the beginning of the book, Khai’s mother is in Vietnam to search for a wife for Khai. Do you think it’s wrong of his mother to meddle and interfere in his personal life, or is this justified as an act of love?
3. Prior to reading this book, how would you have imagined an autistic man? How does Khai compare to this vision?
4. Throughout the book, Khai is adamant about not having feelings, thus creating a chasm between him and everyone else. When do you see a breakthrough in this way of thinking? How does My help with this?
5. Khai memorizes a set of rules that his sister made him that lists what he should do when he’s with a girl (page 37). Do you agree with this list?
6. Though My originally goes to America with the purpose of seducing Khai, a lot of her time is spent going to night school and working at Co Nga’s restaurant. This reflects the hard work that immigrants go through to build a life in the U.S. Can you or anyone you know relate to this?
7. My lies to Khai about her occupation and tells him that she’s an accountant. She does this because she’s embarrassed by her sta-tion in life but also to feel some sort of connection to him. Should she have just told him the truth from the beginning or do you think her lie helps bring them together at least a little?
8. As adamant as Khai is about not loving My, he does things for her that show how much he does care about her, such as carrying her and helping to find her father. What other ways does he show he loves her?
9. At the end of the book, Khai tells My he loves her in Vietnamese. What is the significance of this?
(Questions issued by the publisher.)
The Heartbreak Book Club's October selection is...
Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes Evvie Drake lives alone in a big house. Everyone she knows thinks that grieve keeps her from adventuring out. Former baseball pitcher Dean needs a place to stay that is out of the limelight. Evvie's friend, Andy talks Evvie into letting Dean stay in her apartment for a while. Neither of them wants to talk about each other’s problems. Will they be able to get over the past to move on for the future? |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Small towns like Calcasset, Maine, can be wonderful—Evvie has a strong support network, community traditions, stability—but there can also be downsides. After her husband’s death, Evvie keeps secret her previous plans to leave him. Why do you think she does this? Have you ever found it difficult to voice an ugly truth?
2. What does Dean’s unexpected and inexplicable inability to pitch a baseball mean to you? Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you haven’t been able to perform as you would like to?
3. Evvie and Dean are both thrown huge curve balls—Evvie loses her husband, Dean his livelihood. Do you think they handle the changes in their lives well?
4. Andy and Evvie are close friends with no romantic interest in each other—but things get complicated when Andy starts dating Monica. Have you ever had to balance a relationship and a close friendship?
5. Do you think that balance is further complicated if that friend is a member of the opposite sex? Is this an experience you can relate to?
6. As Evvie and Dean become closer, Evvie reveals more about her marriage. What does she come to understand about her marriage to Tim by the end of the book, and how does this new understanding change her?
7. Evvie finds it difficult to rely on others or to ask for help. Can you relate? Do you find it hard to depend on other people for emotional or practical support?
8. Why does Evvie decide to take a break from speaking to her mother? Do you think she makes the right decision?
9. Evvie, Andy, and Dean are all struggling with different forms of grief. What is each character grieving and how do they find ways to heal?
10. Why do you think Evvie puts off contacting Nona about her job proposition? Why do you think she finally does call Nona back? Have you ever put off an opportunity? What made you finally take the plunge?
11. Do you think Evvie successfully “starts over” by the end of the novel? How does she change from the beginning to the end of the book?
12. What actors would you cast in a film version of Evvie Drake Starts Over?
1. Small towns like Calcasset, Maine, can be wonderful—Evvie has a strong support network, community traditions, stability—but there can also be downsides. After her husband’s death, Evvie keeps secret her previous plans to leave him. Why do you think she does this? Have you ever found it difficult to voice an ugly truth?
2. What does Dean’s unexpected and inexplicable inability to pitch a baseball mean to you? Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you haven’t been able to perform as you would like to?
3. Evvie and Dean are both thrown huge curve balls—Evvie loses her husband, Dean his livelihood. Do you think they handle the changes in their lives well?
4. Andy and Evvie are close friends with no romantic interest in each other—but things get complicated when Andy starts dating Monica. Have you ever had to balance a relationship and a close friendship?
5. Do you think that balance is further complicated if that friend is a member of the opposite sex? Is this an experience you can relate to?
6. As Evvie and Dean become closer, Evvie reveals more about her marriage. What does she come to understand about her marriage to Tim by the end of the book, and how does this new understanding change her?
7. Evvie finds it difficult to rely on others or to ask for help. Can you relate? Do you find it hard to depend on other people for emotional or practical support?
8. Why does Evvie decide to take a break from speaking to her mother? Do you think she makes the right decision?
9. Evvie, Andy, and Dean are all struggling with different forms of grief. What is each character grieving and how do they find ways to heal?
10. Why do you think Evvie puts off contacting Nona about her job proposition? Why do you think she finally does call Nona back? Have you ever put off an opportunity? What made you finally take the plunge?
11. Do you think Evvie successfully “starts over” by the end of the novel? How does she change from the beginning to the end of the book?
12. What actors would you cast in a film version of Evvie Drake Starts Over?
The Heartbreak Book Club's September selection is...
Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev It is a truth universally acknowledged that only in an overachieving Indian American family can a genius daughter be considered a black sheep. Dr. Trisha Raje is San Francisco’s most acclaimed neurosurgeon. But that’s not enough for the Rajes, her influential immigrant family who’s achieved power by making its own non-negotiable rules: · Never trust an outsider · Never do anything to jeopardize your brother’s political aspirations · And never, ever, defy your family Trisha is guilty of breaking all three rules. But now she has a chance to redeem herself. So long as she doesn’t repeat old mistakes. Up-and-coming chef DJ Caine has known people like Trisha before, people who judge him by his rough beginnings and place pedigree above character. He needs the lucrative job the Rajes offer, but he values his pride too much to indulge Trisha’s arrogance. And then he discovers that she’s the only surgeon who can save his sister’s life. As the two clash, their assumptions crumble like the spun sugar on one of DJ’s stunning desserts. But before a future can be savored there’s a past to be reckoned with... A family trying to build home in a new land. A man who has never felt at home anywhere. And a choice to be made between the two. |
The Heartbreak Book Club's July selection is
One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid In her twenties, Emma Blair marries her high school sweetheart, Jesse. They build a life for themselves, far away from the expectations of their parents and the people of their hometown in Massachusetts. They travel the world together, living life to the fullest and seizing every opportunity for adventure. On their first wedding anniversary, Jesse is on a helicopter over the Pacific when it goes missing. Just like that, Jesse is gone forever. Emma quits her job and moves home in an effort to put her life back together. Years later, now in her thirties, Emma runs into an old friend, Sam, and finds herself falling in love again. When Emma and Sam get engaged, it feels like Emma’s second chance at happiness. That is, until Jesse is found. He’s alive, and he’s been trying all these years to come home to her. With a husband and a fiancé, Emma has to now figure out who she is and what she wants, while trying to protect the ones she loves. Who is her one true love? What does it mean to love truly? Emma knows she has to listen to her heart. She’s just not sure what it’s saying. |
Questions for Discussion...
1. Discuss young Emma compared to older Emma. Do you think she would always have changed or do you think Jessie’s disappearance causes the big shift in who she became?
2. Emma has an impossible choice – was going away with Jessie fair to Sam? Or was this the best way for her to decide what to do?
3. What would you have done differently?
4. In Sam’s shoes would you have been as understanding?
5. Discuss that first telephone call that Emma gets from Jesse – when she finds out he’s alive.
6. In the film who would play Jesse? Emma? Sam?
7. Emma and Jesse met really young, age 16, discuss relationships that start out in high school – are they more or less likely to succeed?
8. Here’s a quote from the book:
”I think everyone has a moment that splits their life in two. When you look back on your own timeline, there’s a sharp spike somewhere along the way, some even that changed you, changed your life, more than others. A moment that creates a “before” and an “after.”
Looking back do you have a moment as described above?
1. Discuss young Emma compared to older Emma. Do you think she would always have changed or do you think Jessie’s disappearance causes the big shift in who she became?
2. Emma has an impossible choice – was going away with Jessie fair to Sam? Or was this the best way for her to decide what to do?
3. What would you have done differently?
4. In Sam’s shoes would you have been as understanding?
5. Discuss that first telephone call that Emma gets from Jesse – when she finds out he’s alive.
6. In the film who would play Jesse? Emma? Sam?
7. Emma and Jesse met really young, age 16, discuss relationships that start out in high school – are they more or less likely to succeed?
8. Here’s a quote from the book:
”I think everyone has a moment that splits their life in two. When you look back on your own timeline, there’s a sharp spike somewhere along the way, some even that changed you, changed your life, more than others. A moment that creates a “before” and an “after.”
Looking back do you have a moment as described above?
The June Heartbreak Book Club selection is...
Things You Save in a Fire, by Heather Caliendo This summary and book club questions for Things You Save in a Fire was written by Katherine Center. Cassie Hanwell was born for emergencies. As one of the only female firefighters in her Texas firehouse, she’s seen her fair share of them, and she’s a total pro at other people’s tragedies. But when her estranged and ailing mother asks her to give up her whole life and move to Boston, Cassie suddenly has an emergency of her own. |
Questions for Discussion...
- What did you think about the beginning when Cassie is being honored as the first female firefighter to win the Austin Fire Department’s Valor Award?
- Cassie is horrified that Heath Thompson is the one who will present her with the award. Did you suspect that Heath was a predator from the start or were you confused at what was happening? Would you have knocked him out if you were Cassie?
- We learn that Cassie is closed off due to two traumatic events that happened at 16. One was Heath’s assault of her, which we find out the entire horrible story at the end, and the other was her mother leaving the family for another man. Let’s discuss Cassie’s wall she establishes between herself and the rest of the world. How did Cassie change from the beginning of the story to the end?
- Cassie eventually leaves Texas for Boston to get away from backlash of what happened at the banquet and to also help her mother. But Cassie is quite standoffish with her and doesn’t want to establish a relationship again. Did you agree with how Cassie felt? Why or why not?
- How did the Boston firehouse compare to the one back in Texas? What did you think about the rest of the firefighters in Boston?
- Both Cassie and the rookie Owen are the newbies and so they’re thrown together for pranks and also learning the ins and outs of this particular firehouse. Did you know right away that Owen and Cassie would have a romance? When do you think Cassie finally admitted she had feelings for him? Did you like the romance?
- What did you think about the scenes dedicated to life as a firefighter? Why do you think Cassie chose this profession?
- Cassie starts to get harassed—someone writes “slut” in her locker room, slashes her tires and throws a rock through her mom’s house. Did you suspect DeStasio? What did you think about that character and the confrontation at the end between him and Cassie?
- Cassie learns the power of forgiveness and letting go—she forgives her mother for leaving her and she finally moves forward after dealing with the trauma of Heath’s horrible assault. Let’s discuss Cassie’s self-journey.
May's selection The Bookish Life of Nina Hill, by Abbi Waxman is certainly one for anyone who is bookish, but likes a little romance, too. Are you reading it? What do you think of Nina's unconventional childhood? Can you relate to Nina? Do you think Nina and Tom are a good match? In finding that she has lots of relatives Nina also finds that some of her traits are shared with them, like her anxiety. What traits do you share with your family?
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Questions for Discussion...
Here are some discussion questions from Penguin Random House to ponder and comment on.
1. At the outset of the novel Nina appears very happy, although she really prefers to be alone. How does that change by the end of the novel? What role does solitude play in your life?
2. Nina loves books and is a self-proclaimed introvert. What does she find so appealing about reading? Do you think both extroverts and introverts can be passionate about reading books? How do you think the experience is similar and different for both personality types? Why do you enjoy reading?
3. Pages from Nina’s planner were included in the book. Do you feel that added to the narrative? How did Nina’s planner pages reflect her state of mind? Do you find planning and organizing helps you feel more in control?
4. Nina’s mind is constantly moving, filling with ideas, facts, and information. How does this help and hinder Nina? What do you think are the pros and cons of having such an active brain?
5. Nina has found a group of friends who share her love of books, trivia, and popular culture. At the opening of the novel these people are her chosen family. What interests are you passionate about? Do you have a chosen family of like-minded people, or are your friends drawn from a wider pool?
6. Nina was raised by her nanny, Louise, a woman who wasn’t her biological parent, but who loved and cared for her very deeply. Does Nina consider Lou family? What part do you think biology plays in the formation of family?
7. After discovering her father, Nina realizes his personality resembles hers in many ways, something she feels conflicted about. What traits does Nina share with her father? What does she like about sharing certain personality characteristics with him? What does she find difficult about it? What attributes or flaws do you share with your parents, and how does that make you feel about yourself and about them?
8. Do you think Nina will be permanently changed by discovering her family, or will she remain essentially the same?
9. Nina struggles badly with anxiety, which is often quite debilitating. What are her coping mechanisms? Do you think they are healthy ways to deal with her stress? How do you handle anxieties and fears in your own life?
10. For Nina, a bookstore or library represents sanctuary. Why do you think that is? Do you feel similarly? What are some of your favorite bookstores and libraries? What are other happy places in your life?
11. Tom is not a bookish person, but his character complements Nina’s. Why do you think Nina and Tom work so well together as a couple? How do they complement one another? In what ways have your relationships succeeded or failed because of how well you “fit” together?
12. Nina works in an independent bookstore and seems to enjoy the physical-paper version of books. Do you prefer to read physical books or ebooks? Is your enjoyment of books affected by whether or not you read them on paper? In the street battle over books that happens toward the end of the novel, which side would you be on?
13. Los Angeles is a major city, but Larchmont is clearly a very defined neighborhood, with a small-town atmosphere. Are you surprised by that aspect of Los Angeles, and does it conflict with the way the city is normally portrayed in popular culture?
14. In addition to her deep love of books, Nina also loves all forms of popular culture, including movies and TV shows. Do you think that is common, or do most people prefer one over the other? Which do you prefer?
Here are some discussion questions from Penguin Random House to ponder and comment on.
1. At the outset of the novel Nina appears very happy, although she really prefers to be alone. How does that change by the end of the novel? What role does solitude play in your life?
2. Nina loves books and is a self-proclaimed introvert. What does she find so appealing about reading? Do you think both extroverts and introverts can be passionate about reading books? How do you think the experience is similar and different for both personality types? Why do you enjoy reading?
3. Pages from Nina’s planner were included in the book. Do you feel that added to the narrative? How did Nina’s planner pages reflect her state of mind? Do you find planning and organizing helps you feel more in control?
4. Nina’s mind is constantly moving, filling with ideas, facts, and information. How does this help and hinder Nina? What do you think are the pros and cons of having such an active brain?
5. Nina has found a group of friends who share her love of books, trivia, and popular culture. At the opening of the novel these people are her chosen family. What interests are you passionate about? Do you have a chosen family of like-minded people, or are your friends drawn from a wider pool?
6. Nina was raised by her nanny, Louise, a woman who wasn’t her biological parent, but who loved and cared for her very deeply. Does Nina consider Lou family? What part do you think biology plays in the formation of family?
7. After discovering her father, Nina realizes his personality resembles hers in many ways, something she feels conflicted about. What traits does Nina share with her father? What does she like about sharing certain personality characteristics with him? What does she find difficult about it? What attributes or flaws do you share with your parents, and how does that make you feel about yourself and about them?
8. Do you think Nina will be permanently changed by discovering her family, or will she remain essentially the same?
9. Nina struggles badly with anxiety, which is often quite debilitating. What are her coping mechanisms? Do you think they are healthy ways to deal with her stress? How do you handle anxieties and fears in your own life?
10. For Nina, a bookstore or library represents sanctuary. Why do you think that is? Do you feel similarly? What are some of your favorite bookstores and libraries? What are other happy places in your life?
11. Tom is not a bookish person, but his character complements Nina’s. Why do you think Nina and Tom work so well together as a couple? How do they complement one another? In what ways have your relationships succeeded or failed because of how well you “fit” together?
12. Nina works in an independent bookstore and seems to enjoy the physical-paper version of books. Do you prefer to read physical books or ebooks? Is your enjoyment of books affected by whether or not you read them on paper? In the street battle over books that happens toward the end of the novel, which side would you be on?
13. Los Angeles is a major city, but Larchmont is clearly a very defined neighborhood, with a small-town atmosphere. Are you surprised by that aspect of Los Angeles, and does it conflict with the way the city is normally portrayed in popular culture?
14. In addition to her deep love of books, Nina also loves all forms of popular culture, including movies and TV shows. Do you think that is common, or do most people prefer one over the other? Which do you prefer?
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren Identical twins Ami and Olive couldn’t be any more different. While Ami is lucky in everything she does, Olive has always had bad luck in everything including love. Her sister Ami is so lucky that she even wins a dream honeymoon to Hawaii. The wedding day, couldn’t be any worse for Olive. She has to spend the whole day with Ethan, the best man. Who is someone she can’t stand. During the rehearsal dinner everyone gets extreme food poisoning except for Olive and Ethan. Can Olive and Ethan put their differences aside, to take an all expenses paid honeymoon to Hawaii? As long as they can avoid each other at all costs, they will both have a enjoyable vacation. Everything changes when Olive runs into her new boss and tells a little white lie about being a newly wed. She begs Ethan to go along with her lie. She and Ethan get in way over their heads as the lie gets bigger. She could get used to her pretend life and she’s even feeling lucky. |
Questions for Discussion...
- Olive thinks she’s an unlucky person while her sister Ami seems enterally lucky. Do you think there’s an truth that some people seem more lucky than others?
- Why did Olive and Ethan seem to hate each other? Why do you think they agreed to go on the honeymoon? What would you have done if you were Olive?
- Olive panics when she sees her future boss at the resort in Maui and she says she’s married to Ethan. Why do you think she couldn’t tell him the truth?
- And once they think they’re in the clear when her boss and his wife leave; Ethan’s ex shows up with her new fiancé. What did you think about those scenes with the ex?
- When did Olive start to fall for Ethan? Do you think they’re a good match?
- So the first meeting between Olive and Ethan was bad. Olive thought Ethan judged her for eating an unhealthy snack while Ethan thought Olive was rude. It turned out to be a huge misunderstanding. What did you think about those revelations?
- While the two get closer in Hawaii, Olive learns that Ethan’s brother, Dane, who just married her sister Ami, cheated on her early in their relationship. Ethan tries to convince Olive that Ami must have known and despite being skeptical, Olive agrees to not say anything for the time being. Let’s discuss this. Did Ethan just not want to face the truth about his brother?
- Once they get back from Hawaii, Olive and Ethan remain close. But life becomes complicated when not on an island. Olive has to come clean to her boss that she’s not actually married to Ethan and he then fires her. First, would that happen in real life?
- And then, Dane makes a move on Olive while Ethan is away for a moment. Olive tells Ethan who refuses to believe it and tells Olive she only sees the negative and the bad. Despite Ethan’s harsh reaction, was there some truth in what he said about Olive always being pessimistic or was he completely out of line? It’s not a rom-com if there’s no misunderstanding, right?
We noticed that a lot of you are reading Jojo Moyes. Have you read, or seen the movie, Me Before You? Here's a summary: Louisa 'Lou' Clark lives in a quaint town in the English countryside. With no clear direction in her life, the quirky and creative 26-year old goes from one job to the next in order to make ends meet. Taking a job at the local 'castle' she becomes caregiver and companion to Will Traynor, a wealthy young banker who became wheelchair bound in an accident. Embarking together on a series of adventures, both Lou and Will get more than they bargained for.
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Questions for Discussion...
1. If you were Louisa, would you have quit working for the Traynors? If yes, at what point?
2. Were you able to relate to the way Will felt after his accident? What about his outlook on life did you find most difficult to understand or accept?
3. Discuss the meaning of the novel’s title. To whom do the “me” and “you” refer?
4. Louisa often finds Mrs. Traynor cold and judgmental. Is there an appropriate way to behave in Mrs. Traynor’s situation?
5. What is your opinion of Mr. Traynor? Did it change after you read his side of the story?
6. Why is Louisa able to reach Will when so many others could not?
7. Were you as surprised as Lou to learn of Will’s plans?
8. Compare Louisa’s relationship with Treena to Will’s relationship with Georgina. Do siblings know one another any better simply because they are related?
9. Would Patrick have asked Louisa to move in with him if he hadn’t felt threatened by Will? If Louisa had never accepted her job with the Traynors, where would her relationship with Patrick have gone?
10. Discuss Louisa’s own secret ties to the castle. Would most girls in her situation have blamed themselves? Should Treena have behaved differently in the aftermath?
11. What did you make of the way Lou’s mother, Josie, judges Lou’s decisions regarding Will. Is Josie’s reaction fair?
12. Before his accident, Will was a philanderer and a corporate raider who would probably never have given Louisa a second look. Why is it that people are so often unable to see what’s truly important until they’ve experienced loss?
(Questions issued by publisher.)
1. If you were Louisa, would you have quit working for the Traynors? If yes, at what point?
2. Were you able to relate to the way Will felt after his accident? What about his outlook on life did you find most difficult to understand or accept?
3. Discuss the meaning of the novel’s title. To whom do the “me” and “you” refer?
4. Louisa often finds Mrs. Traynor cold and judgmental. Is there an appropriate way to behave in Mrs. Traynor’s situation?
5. What is your opinion of Mr. Traynor? Did it change after you read his side of the story?
6. Why is Louisa able to reach Will when so many others could not?
7. Were you as surprised as Lou to learn of Will’s plans?
8. Compare Louisa’s relationship with Treena to Will’s relationship with Georgina. Do siblings know one another any better simply because they are related?
9. Would Patrick have asked Louisa to move in with him if he hadn’t felt threatened by Will? If Louisa had never accepted her job with the Traynors, where would her relationship with Patrick have gone?
10. Discuss Louisa’s own secret ties to the castle. Would most girls in her situation have blamed themselves? Should Treena have behaved differently in the aftermath?
11. What did you make of the way Lou’s mother, Josie, judges Lou’s decisions regarding Will. Is Josie’s reaction fair?
12. Before his accident, Will was a philanderer and a corporate raider who would probably never have given Louisa a second look. Why is it that people are so often unable to see what’s truly important until they’ve experienced loss?
(Questions issued by publisher.)
Slammed by Colleen Hoover was our first book discussion. Here's a summary: Following the unexpected death of her father, 18-year-old Layken is forced to be the rock for both her mother and younger brother. Outwardly, she appears resilient and tenacious, but inwardly, she's losing hope. If you read it, what did you think?
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Questions for Discussion...
1. A very lovely song called I and Love and You, written by the Avett Brothers uses the lyric, “One foot in and one foot back, But it don’t pay to live like that, So I cut the ties and jumped the track, For never to return.” How does this lyric inform the emotional and spiritual place the readers discover Layken at in the beginning of Slammed? Does she need to be at a place of cleaving herself from her old life to embark on a new life?
2. Lake and Will are immediately attracted to each other upon meeting. Kel and Caulder and Lake and Eddie are similarly immediately bonded, striking up a deep friendship. What is it about someone else that creates mutual attraction? Did you know/recognize your soul mate immediately upon meeting him/her? Do you believe in love (both romantic and friendship) at first sight?
3. Lake and Will share their first date at a poetry slam in which Will is called upon to perform a very revealing and raw piece about the death of his parents and the aftermath that event had upon his life. However, he and Lake have not yet shared the banal details of their lives. Was it easier for Will to share the deeper elements of his life before he shared the biographical details? Why or why not?
4. Did Will act inappropriately in assuming that Lake was a college student and not a high school student? What should he have done differently once this truth was revealed? What was Lake’s responsibility in this situation? Did Will, as the adult in a position of trust, have a greater burden in divesting himself from Lake? What should the players have done differently?
5. Will and Lake experience significant pushes and pulls while trying to avoid one another. Should they have made attempts to stay away from each other or just maintained their relationship in private? Is it possible to be “just friends” with someone for whom you have deeper feelings? Is it better to cut off the relationship completely?
6. Lake equates the sorrow of not having Will in her life to the Elizabeth Kübler-Ross Steps of Grief. Is the loss of a relationship a death of sorts? In your experience, does the loss of first love feel like a death? Do subsequent losses feel as intense as the loss of first love?
7. Julia reveals that her health is in crisis and the move to Michigan was planned before Lake’s dad’s death. Why do you think she kept such information under wraps for so long? Did she do the right thing? Is full disclosure the right policy in every situation? How do you think she should have handled this differently?
8. It becomes clear that Lake is going to be Kel’s guardian in a twist of fate similar to Will’s fate. Was she right to refuse Will’s advances with the insistence that “she is first” in his life? Could she have made similar assurances to him, had he demanded them, at that moment? Was she being fair to ask that of him? How are those demands different to those asked by Vaughn two years prior?
9. Lyrics, poetry, and quotes figure prominently in Slammed’s narrative. What makes a poetic line powerful or meaningful? Was Will’s poetry to Lake any more important or better than her dad’s poetry to her mom? What’s the point of poetry if the poetry doesn’t have points? What are the elements that lead readers (or listeners) to regard a line as good or bad? Is there a line that is particularly important to you in your life?
1. A very lovely song called I and Love and You, written by the Avett Brothers uses the lyric, “One foot in and one foot back, But it don’t pay to live like that, So I cut the ties and jumped the track, For never to return.” How does this lyric inform the emotional and spiritual place the readers discover Layken at in the beginning of Slammed? Does she need to be at a place of cleaving herself from her old life to embark on a new life?
2. Lake and Will are immediately attracted to each other upon meeting. Kel and Caulder and Lake and Eddie are similarly immediately bonded, striking up a deep friendship. What is it about someone else that creates mutual attraction? Did you know/recognize your soul mate immediately upon meeting him/her? Do you believe in love (both romantic and friendship) at first sight?
3. Lake and Will share their first date at a poetry slam in which Will is called upon to perform a very revealing and raw piece about the death of his parents and the aftermath that event had upon his life. However, he and Lake have not yet shared the banal details of their lives. Was it easier for Will to share the deeper elements of his life before he shared the biographical details? Why or why not?
4. Did Will act inappropriately in assuming that Lake was a college student and not a high school student? What should he have done differently once this truth was revealed? What was Lake’s responsibility in this situation? Did Will, as the adult in a position of trust, have a greater burden in divesting himself from Lake? What should the players have done differently?
5. Will and Lake experience significant pushes and pulls while trying to avoid one another. Should they have made attempts to stay away from each other or just maintained their relationship in private? Is it possible to be “just friends” with someone for whom you have deeper feelings? Is it better to cut off the relationship completely?
6. Lake equates the sorrow of not having Will in her life to the Elizabeth Kübler-Ross Steps of Grief. Is the loss of a relationship a death of sorts? In your experience, does the loss of first love feel like a death? Do subsequent losses feel as intense as the loss of first love?
7. Julia reveals that her health is in crisis and the move to Michigan was planned before Lake’s dad’s death. Why do you think she kept such information under wraps for so long? Did she do the right thing? Is full disclosure the right policy in every situation? How do you think she should have handled this differently?
8. It becomes clear that Lake is going to be Kel’s guardian in a twist of fate similar to Will’s fate. Was she right to refuse Will’s advances with the insistence that “she is first” in his life? Could she have made similar assurances to him, had he demanded them, at that moment? Was she being fair to ask that of him? How are those demands different to those asked by Vaughn two years prior?
9. Lyrics, poetry, and quotes figure prominently in Slammed’s narrative. What makes a poetic line powerful or meaningful? Was Will’s poetry to Lake any more important or better than her dad’s poetry to her mom? What’s the point of poetry if the poetry doesn’t have points? What are the elements that lead readers (or listeners) to regard a line as good or bad? Is there a line that is particularly important to you in your life?