1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Much of the magic within the novel is left to interpretation: Is it true sorcery and haunting, or a trick of the mind? Did you read this as a fantastical novel, or a psychological one?
• Did you sympathize with the illegal actions of the apothecary? Or is murder wrong in every circumstance?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• The novel takes an ambiguous view of secrecy, presenting it in both positive and negative lights. Do you view secrecy more as healthy or as corrosive, and why?
• What was your perspective on Caroline and James’s marriage? Did you want them to reconcile, or did you find their relationship to be toxic?
• Have you ever experienced betrayal from a trusted loved one? How did you navigate the experience? 
• Nella has a strict rule that her poisons will only ever hurt men. Do you feel that this makes her crime less wrong? Why or why not?
• Discuss a time when you had to make a difficult ethical choice. Compare your approach to the choices of the characters.

3. Societal and Cultural

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