Here is a list of questions that readers can use in discussing this book. Although this is a light-hearted cozy mystery, there are many issues that Very deals with in the course of the book.
- Very’s mother is deceased, but she appears often in this book. On page 3, Very deals with her mother’s chair, putting it away in the disused bedroom. Why did she act this way? On this day? Is there anger at her mother that is unresolved?
- In Chapter Two, Very deals with the melancholy of the suitcase. How do we process disappointment, betrayal and loss? Very originally buried the suitcase and its contents, now (p. 8) she digs it up. Do you think Very reacts naturally?
- Very expects to finally lay to rest the question of Frankie’s betrayal, but finds out that the body in the orchard is someone else (p. 60). How does she react? If there hadn’t been a ticket in the pocket to make Very believe it could be Frankie, would this revelation be different for her? How does this knowledge affect her and her subsequent actions? Is ignorance always bliss?
- Very ‘disapproves of’ Darrell making notes in the book (p.74). He defends himself by saying that it is his book and he can make notes if he wants. Very is a librarian who must have a reverence for books. How does a professional view the tools of the trade? Would you make notes in a library book? Your own book? How does reading a book in an ebook format change the dynamics of notetaking?
- Very has an explanation for her name that is well-rehearsed (p. 103). What is her relationship with her own name? Why? On page 158, there is the discussion of Cassandra’s name and the disappointment of a mother who chose a ‘big beautiful’ name for her daughter. How do we choose names for our children? How do we feel if they reject these gems?
- Very meets a couple of Darrell’s colleagues (p. 186) and feels rejected as a potential member of their profession, but that they might accept her as a secretary. Although she is aware of the views of many in Bakersfield, she seems to shrug this off, both personally and professionally. Why doesn’t she want to fight back? Do you think there may be some history in her reactions?
- Joey calls Very out for her revelation to Cassandra (p. 167). Very accepts the criticism, admitting her selfishness. Was this difficult for Very? Do we accept criticism easily? From whom?
- On page 170, Joey hints that Very has a new man in her life. Is Joey being facetious, an inveterate matchmaker, or just nosy? What do you think Very feels about this supposed romance?
- On page 172-3, Very has a revelation that she needs to do this investigation herself. What internal thoughts have brought this on? What are the consequences?
- Very stands at the edge of the bluff looking down at the area where the homeless encampments are (p.203). She has been warned to ‘take someone’ with her, if she goes to find Curly below. But she goes alone. Why? What are the consequences? Have you ever done something similar?
- In the end, Very still does not know where Frankie Monroe is or what may have happened to him. Are you unsatisfied with this ending? Are you angry with the author for not telling you? Or are you willing to wait until the next installment? What is the role of the author in ‘wrapping it all up’ as opposed to leave open ends?