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Jane struggles with giving up control as her children grow up. If you have children, what has been the most difficult parenting stage you've encountered?
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15
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48
|
February 23, 2026
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To what audience would you recommend Jane and Dan at the End of the World? Is there another book or author you feel addresses related themes or who writes in a similar style?
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13
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43
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February 23, 2026
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Did you think Dan and Jane were on the same page when it came to their parenting? Whose parenting style did you prefer?
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7
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27
|
February 23, 2026
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Was there a scene or a quote you highlighted? Why do you suppose it resonated with you?
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7
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29
|
February 23, 2026
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Jane feels that most “want to believe that the person you are with is good or decent,” but in her heart believes “morality isn’t an absolute; it’s situational.” What’s your opinion of this? Do you agree?
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15
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50
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February 23, 2026
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Have you read other books by Colleen Oakley? If so, how did they compare?
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4
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14
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February 23, 2026
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Jane’s decision to divorce Dan comes after discovering text messages between him and another woman. Why do you suppose Dan didn’t tell Jane about his new hobby?
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25
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70
|
February 23, 2026
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When the terrorists burst in, Jane and Dan respond differently to the ambush—Dan freezes in fear and Jane wants to take action. How do you think you would respond in that situation?
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21
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51
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February 23, 2026
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Jane’s publicist tells her, “Books don’t have to be good to sell. They just need a catchy hook, a good cover, and the most important part – visibility. Once you and your book cover are everywhere, people will buy it.” Do you think this is true?
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12
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41
|
February 23, 2026
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Multiple characters find healing through music after trauma. Do you agree that creative pursuits can help process difficult experiences?
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5
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14
|
February 23, 2026
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Overall, what did you think of The Violin Maker’s Secret? (No spoilers in this thread, please!)
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16
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57
|
February 23, 2026
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How does the novel explore the value of lost or forgotten art? Should all art be preserved and shared?
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5
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13
|
February 23, 2026
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What effect did having the violin narrate portions of the story have on your reading experience? How did it change your relationship to the instrument?
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12
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32
|
February 23, 2026
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Rita’s first experience acting in live theatre was a disappointment. Even so, she didn’t give up her dream. What kept her going? Would you have given up had you been in a similar situation?
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6
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14
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February 22, 2026
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What did you know about the sinking of the Lusitania before reading A Crown of Stars? What did you think of Shana Abé’s depiction of the event?
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18
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29
|
February 22, 2026
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Have you read any of Shana Abé’s previous novels, and if so, how do they compare to A Crown of Stars?
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11
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21
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February 22, 2026
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When Devlin and Gabrielle attend a concert, Devlin insists on picking up an outfit at a second-hand store, although Gabrielle resists. What did you think of this scene? Do you shop at thrift stores? Why or why not?
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11
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25
|
February 22, 2026
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Have you read any of Evie Woods’ previous novels, and if so, how do they compare to The Violin Maker’s Secret?
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10
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20
|
February 22, 2026
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Devlin insists on simply finding a hotel, while Gabrielle prefers to check out the reviews for a place first. What does this say about their respective personalities, in your opinion? Which of the two are you more like?
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6
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20
|
February 22, 2026
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When Devlin learns that the violin he purchased may have been stolen, he turns to Walter for help. What would you have done in Devlin’s place?
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10
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28
|
February 22, 2026
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Which timeline—past or present—did you find most compelling? How did Clara and William's story enhance the modern narrative?
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7
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16
|
February 22, 2026
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Gabrielle loves going to the library’s reading room because “the air had a stillness” and it “calmed her nerves.” Do you think libraries foster this sense of peace in general? Is there someplace you frequent where you experience a similar stillness?
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6
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16
|
February 22, 2026
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The administrators at Sheldon Oaks were aware of Carol’s history. Were you surprised they weren’t more cautious about allowing her to move in? Do you think they should have said anything to the current residents?
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16
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40
|
February 22, 2026
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Geoffrey learns about manscaping and attempts the grooming technique (injuring himself in the process). Is there a modern trend that you find surprising?
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15
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47
|
February 22, 2026
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Several times Carol seems tempted to bump off one of her fellow residents, but then decides she is no longer really interested in her former “hobby.” What do you suppose changed for her, and why?
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12
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35
|
February 22, 2026
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Overall, what did you think of I’m Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home? (No spoilers, please!)
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35
|
129
|
February 22, 2026
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What did you think of the author’s choice to make the lead investigator a mass murderer recently released from prison? Did you agree with Carol that she was uniquely qualified to investigate the murder?
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14
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39
|
February 22, 2026
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To what audience would you recommend I’m Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home? Is there another book or author you feel has a similar theme or style?
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13
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44
|
February 22, 2026
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Who was your favorite character, and why?
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20
|
66
|
February 22, 2026
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Carol insists on having a dénouement, where she exposes the guilty party/parties. Why do you suppose this was so important to her?
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10
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40
|
February 22, 2026
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