Years ago, a friend asked me if I was interested in joining her bookclub. Twelve new friends, countless books, and several years later, it continues to be a much anticipated night of the month. I hope you and your bookclub enjoyed following Lyle and her friends on Bonaire.
PHOTO AMANDA CRAMP
On Bonaire
Would you become friends with Rick, Victoria, Angela and Steve? Which of Lyle's friends reminds you most of yourself? Who did you like, dislike, and why?
Lyle's childhood was difficult. What attributes does Lyle display that may have contributed to her ability to come through it? We never learn Lyle's mother's name. Do you think this was intentional?
What adventurous hobbies might you try? Would you consider becoming a scuba diver? Did the author's detailed description of marine life spark your curiosity?
Do you think Michael should stay in a relationship with Lyle after learning her secret? What would be best for Lyle?
What role did the island of Bonaire play in this book?
Were you at all suspicious of Dottie? Is she a good friend for Lyle?
People get tattoos for many different reasons. What are some memorable tattoos you've seen? Would you consider getting a tattoo? If you have a tattoo, why did you chose the one you have?
Did the age difference between Lyle and Michael add to, or diminish from, the story? What if the tables were turned and Michael was older than Lyle?
Have you visited the Caribbean? What did you enjoy the most?
Was Rick's reason for ending his relationship with Lyle valid?
Back to Bonaire
Did Lyle choose between Michael and Grey, or was the choice made for her? Who do you think would be the best choice for her?
How does each character change throughout the book? Who makes the most profound transformation? Are all these changes positive?
How does Grey’s nationality effect the way he sees the world and other people?
When offered help for her mental distress, Lyle jumped at the chance. She claimed she never would have seen the need on her own. Why do you think she so willingly went into therapy with Danesha Clark?
When Lyle knocked on Claire Cooper’s door, what did you think she was going to find? We’ve only known her through Lyle’s eyes, how did meeting Claire change the way you thought of her? Did you like Claire?
Did Michael get any preferential treatment from Police Chief Dutch? Did you think Michael was guilty? Was Lyle truly convinced he was innocent?
Discuss the relationship between Michael and Grey. What did each give up because of the other? What did they gain from their relationship?
Have you traveled to the Caribbean? Would you try scuba diving? What activities do you enjoy on vacation?
Why do you think Elizabeth never reached out to Grey? Is Grey guilty of letting his daughter go?