1. Victoria is a popular (and famous!) historical figure. She’s been portrayed in many different films and books. Do you have a favorite version of Victoria? How does Princess Victoria in THE HEIR differ from other Victorias you’ve read (or seen)? How is she similar?

2. Victoria is one of the most well-known British monarchs, and many people think they know her story. Has your perception of Victoria as a person and a queen changed after reading THE HEIR?

3. One of the major themes of THE HEIR is isolation. How does Jane and Victoria’s sense of isolation affect their characters and actions?

4. What gives Victoria the strength to resist Sir John’s (and her mother’s!) attempts to break her spirit?

5. Jane Conroy has the choice to help Victoria or help her father. Why does she make the choice she does?

6. Another major throughline in THE HEIR is the difference between power and control. How do Victoria and Jane navigate this dichotomy? Sir John and the Duchess Lehzen?

7. Why does the Duchess preserve her relationship with Sir John?

8. What drives Sir John? Is it only a quest for power, or is there something else underneath?

9. Through THE HEIR, small decisions are seen to have large consequences. Jane makes several decisions that will affect her entire family and, in some cases, the entire kingdom. What is an example of a decision you agree with? One you disagree with?

10. Does reading about Victoria’s experiences with her family change your perspective on the troubles inside the current royal family? Why or why not?