1. Does the American setting make the novel more or less interesting than her English-based novels? Why do you suppose Grimes decided to set this novel in America?

2. Is there too little emphasis on detection in this novel?

3. Grimes writes a story alleged to be by Poe; does she do a convincing job of imitating Poe?

4. A number of ongoing situations, such as Vivian's long-delayed wedding, continue in this novel. Should Grimes resolve some of these situations, or do they remain interesting?

5. In the excerpts from Ellen Taylor's novel, Grimes parodies much of modern fiction. What are some of the elements of Ellen's writing that Grimes finds ridiculous?

6. What are some of the differences that emerge between American and English detectives?

7. Jip, the child character, has a past which is somewhat of a mystery even to herself. What function does such a mysterious past play?

8. How does...