1. Flora describes romance scams as “pig butchering” --- a process of emotional manipulation. How does this concept extend beyond Regan’s storyline into other relationships in the book?

2. Regan is portrayed as both a victim and someone making harmful choices. How did your perception of her evolve over the course of the novel?

3. The novel explores generational patterns of trauma and coping. In what ways do you see behaviors repeating across Charlotte, Lee, Regan and the girls?

4. Mental health is central to the story, particularly through Lee and Flora. How does the book portray the difference between living with mental illness and being defined by it?

5. Lee’s career opportunity arises directly from her public breakdown. What commentary does the novel make about society’s fascination with vulnerability and trauma?

6. The setting shifts between Savannah, Athens and beyond. How do these locations reflect the emotional states of the characters?

7. Isabelle and Flora respond very differently to their mother’s absence and instability. How do their coping mechanisms compare, and what do they reveal about their needs?

8. The theme of “being needed” appears repeatedly. Is being needed the same as being loved in this novel? Why or why not?

9. After finishing the novel, what are your thoughts on its conclusion? Do you see the ending as hopeful? What do you think comes next for the Perkins family?