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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to information revealed to Lynley, who is suspicious of Gareth Randolph?

2. According to Randie Webberly, whom did she overhear Elena fighting with the night before Elena was killed?

3. Who leaves a message on Sarah Gordon's phone while she is being interviewed by Lynley?

4. Who accompanies Lynley when he conducts his initial interview with Sarah Gordon?

5. When Detective Lynley first arrives in Cambridge, whom does he visit?

Short Essay Questions

1. As Glyn is picking out Elena's coffin, what does she realize?

2. When Lynley reaches the crime scene, what do the local men in the workshop repairing boats believe about the ongoing investigation?

3. Why did Pen originally decide to become a stay-at-home mother?

4. When Lynley and his companion stop for lunch in Chapter 8, what does Lynley reveal to his companion about the previous night?

5. When did Sarah Gordon and Elena Weaver first meet?

6. During his meeting with Lynley, what is the Master of St. Stephen's College reluctant to speculate on with Lynley?

7. According to her sister, what does the large wooden puzzle that Helen and Christian are working on say about Iris's tastes?

8. What did Anthony Weaver's assistant tell Lynley about the night before Elena was killed?

9. According to Justine, why did she not run with Elena the day that Elena was murdered?

10. As Barbara Havers is introduced in the story, what decision is Barbara contemplating?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Both Rosalyn Simpson and Victor Troughton are not immediately forthcoming when questioned about Elena's murder. Compare the motivations each of these characters has for withholding vital information from Lynley. What changes for each of these characters before they tell the entire truth to Lynley? How does their truthfulness impact Lynley's investigation?

Essay Topic 2

Anthony Weaver wears different masks in the story. A professor, a husband, and a liar, Weaver is a study in contradictions. Identify, then compare the different sides of Anthony Weaver. How would the entire plot have been affected if Weaver had not been successful at deceiving those around him, especially Thomas Lynley? Why is it necessary for Weaver to wear different masks?

Essay Topic 3

One of the main themes is this novel involves deceptive appearances.

a. Identify three characters that use deceptive appearances to further their interests.

b. Why do these characters rely on deception?

c. What is the outcome for these characters? Were they successful in their endeavors or would they have been more successful if they had not been deceptive?

(see the answer keys)

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