1. The chapters are very short, sometimes a few pages and others only one paragraph. How does this format affect the way you read the book?

2. Why do you think Red chose to ignore her mother’s warnings about Bryce Laurent? Discuss the warning signs Red overlooked.

3. At what point in the book do you think Roy Grace fully believes that Karl did not kill himself and that there was foul play, despite the facts pointing toward suicide?

4. Do you think there is greater significance to Red’s name, other than the fact that she is a redhead? How does this tie in to the bigger picture?

5. An important theme in many of Mr. James’ novels is the role that the past plays on the future. For Detective Roy Grace it is the constant struggle of mourning the loss of his perpetually missing first wife, Sandy. In what other ways does the past dictate the future for these characters?

6. Technology plays an ever present role in our daily lives, discuss the role that technology plays in this book. How is it both vital and dangerous to the investigation and our characters?

7. Towards the end of the novel Red is finally forced to fight back against her assailant and instead of feeling afraid and helpless, Red is left with only anger and hatred. How do you view Red? As a helpless victim or something more?

8. In your own opinion do you believe that justice has been served at the end of this novel? Not only for Red Westwood but for the other characters too.