Before they agree to read The Fan Club, group members need to be aware that it contains four scenes of rape and numerous sexual encounters. Readers whose views of sex are primarily sentimental and romantic will probably find the novel too graphic. The absence of a positive yet passionate love relationship makes the sexual atmosphere very dark.

1. Many heroines in modern fiction are sexually experienced, but few match the number or frequency of Sharon's liaisons during her effort to escape. Does Sharon's energetic sexuality make it difficult for most readers to accept her as a heroine?

2. The relationship between Sharon and Adam is the closest one to a romantic relationship. What is the basis of their intimacy? What are its unbridgeable limitations?

3. Despite his relationship with Sharon, is Adam insane? Does Wallace entrap readers into sympathizing with him simply because he is not as brutal or...