Discussion Guide

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1. Which character in this novel do you identify with the most? Why?

2. In the novel, Nicholas suddenly finds himself responsible for an estate and tenants, a responsibility he neither expected nor wanted. Have you ever had responsibility thrust upon you unexpectedly? What did you do?

3. Forgiveness is an important theme in this novel. Have you ever struggled to forgive someone? What helped you overcome unforgiveness?

4. As the daughter of a minister, Lavinia has heard many sermons, but some have proved difficult to put into practice. Have you ever been challenged by a sermon? How did you respond?

5. If you could give Lavinia one piece of advice, what would it be? What advice would you give Nicholas?

6. In what ways do Lavinia and Nicholas change throughout the novel? What do you consider to be the biggest factor(s) in their change?

7. “Promises are mere words on the wind until something is actually done.” Do you agree with this statement? Why/why not?

8. Lavinia mentions her mother’s favorite Bible verse is 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” Do you have a favorite verse? How did it become your favorite?

9. While this is a work of fiction, certain historical elements are referenced, such as the Napoleonic Wars (the Battle of Burgos, the Battle of García Hernández) and Elizabeth Farren (an actress from the late 1700s who married the 12th Earl of Derby). How did these historical details affect the narrative? How did they help you to feel a sense of time and place?

10. What were the most appealing parts of the book?

11. What do you think happens next?