1. What are some of the commonalities that bond Grace, Hannah, and Amelia, who have such disparate personalities, backgrounds, and experiences?

2. The issue of love versus commitment to friendship and a lifestyle recurs in Medlicott's novels. Bob is always trying to talk Grace into moving in with him, preferably marrying him. Do you think Grace should do this? Why or why not?

3. Does the manner in which Hannah and her daughter bridge the gap between them satisfy you? In your opinion was it too soon, too abrupt? Timed just right? How would you have handled this situation?

4. Grace denies having diabetes. Is her reaction typical, do you think? How would you have preferred to see her handle this?

5. How did you respond to the process of growth and change that takes place in Amelia? Have your feelings about Amelia changed? Why?

6. Did it surprise you that Amelia and Laura became close friends?

7. How important are the friendships of women to you?

8. What in this novel saddened you? What inspired you?

9. Are you surprised that Hannah would entertain romantic thoughts about Max? What, if anything, concerns you about this?

10. How does creating and working on "the gardens" bring everything closer together?