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Reading Group Guide

Discussion Questions

The Replacement Wife

1. What is the significance of Angie's cooking class?

2. How would you describe Edward’s evolution of feelings towards Camille as the story develops and comes to an end? Please explain.

3. What --- or who --- do you think began to drive Edward and Camille apart?

4. Do you think the title of this book is ironic? Please explain why or why not.

5. Do you believe that Camille will ever find a new love? How might her skills as a matchmaker help or hurt her ability to find someone new?

6. In your opinion, did Camille do the right thing by trying to replace herself? Explain. Also, what would you do if you were in her situation?

7. Why did Edward begin to agree with Camille's plan? What prompted his change of heart?

8. The book gives us an extensive look at Camille's family. Why was it that Kyra began to act older while Zach began to act younger? What observation about male and female behavior might Goudge be making?

9. Goudge juxtaposes past and present a great deal in this novel. How do you think the theme of old vs. new relates to the notion that Camille’s father started trying to reconnect with her? How does this event strengthen or weaken the story?

10. If you could write a sequel to The Replacement Wife, what would be the main plot points that you would want to write in? Why? Do you feel like Goudge left anything out of her ending, or do you find the ending appropriate? Please explain.

11. Why do you think the story was set in New York City, as opposed to any other city? What significance does this particular setting have for this story?

12. Which part of the novel did you enjoy most, and why?

The Replacement Wife
by Eileen Goudge

  • Publication Date: March 27, 2012
  • Paperback: 482 pages
  • Publisher: Open Road E-riginal
  • ISBN-10: 1453258140
  • ISBN-13: 9781453258149