1. Stepping into the Shadow
    The novel explores the idea of stepping into someone else’s shadow. How does the second Mrs. Strom, Cecilia, define herself against Paul’s first wife—and against Paul himself?
  2. Ambition and Relationships
    What role does ambition play in the relationships throughout the book? Did you sympathize with any of the characters’ hunger for power and recognition?
  3. Paul Strom’s Presence
    Paul Strom is infamous from Rouda’s earlier work, Best Day Ever. What do you think of Paul Strom?
  4. Reliability of Perspectives
    How reliable did you find the perspectives presented in the story? Were there moments you questioned the truth of what you were being told?
  5. Wealth and Appearances
    The book dives into themes of wealth, privilege, and appearances. What commentary does the story make about the cost of maintaining a “perfect” life?
  6. Twists and Revelations
    Did you see the twists coming, or did the revelations take you by surprise? Which moment shocked you the most?
  7. Choices and Consequences
    Do you think the second Mrs. Strom made the right choices for her future? What alternatives could she have taken?
  8. The Ending
    How does the novel’s ending resonate with you? Was it satisfying, unsettling, or somewhere in between?