1. Frankie Elkin isn’t law enforcement, but she is often investigating dangerous missing persons cases. What do you think drives her to be persistent in her search for answers?

2. Frankie lives a nomadic life but manages to make connections. Why do you think Frankie keeps things close to her chest? Does it help her?

3. Zahra’s ability to remember everything she sees is both extraordinary and burdensome. Would you consider such a memory a strength or a vulnerability?

4. Setting is always an important element of stories. What is it about the desert setting that makes it a good location for thrillers?

5. War, displacement and trauma are explored through the refugee experience. What surprised you most about Sabera’s life after escaping the Taliban?

6. If you read the author’s acknowledgments (and we recommend you do!), did you come away with a different perception of the systems meant to protect these vulnerable displaced wartime allies?