Curse of Shadows and Thorns

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Did you see the final plot twists of the novel coming? What clues in the text led you to expect it, or misled you?

2. What did you think of the world of Curse of Shadows and Thorns? Did you notice any significant similarities between the magical kingdoms in the novel and the real world?

3. How did you feel about the love dynamic between Legion and Elise? How are they different or similar to other romantasy couplings you have read about?

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

1. Have you ever felt like you don’t belong among your people or society, like Elise does? How are your experiences different or similar from hers?

2. Elise is willing to sacrifice herself for Legion to lift his curse. Have you ever made a sacrifice for someone else that changed your relationship? Was the sacrifice worth it, or not?

3. Have you ever discovered a secret that changed your view of a person? How did you react to this? What would you have done if you were in Elise’s place when she discovered Legion was the Blood Wraith?

4. Elise is engrossed in reading Queen Lilianna’s journals at various points in the novel. Have you ever read someone’s story and wanted to go back to their time?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. New Timoran society is built on enslavement and various forms of discrimination. What parallels can you trace between New Timoran society and your own society? How does the novel critique such hierarchies and prejudices?

2. What does this novel say about gender roles and dynamics? How do the genders of the characters influence their choices and the options they have?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Choose a notable secondary character, like Siverie or Bevan. How is he or she characterized? What is their wider role in the text?

2. Examine the settings of New Timoran and Ravenspire Castle. How are these settings described? What is their wider significance in the text?

3. Analyze the symbolic significance of fury in the novel. What does it represent in the novel? How does it illuminate the text’s key themes and ideas?

4. Consider the role of prophecy in the novel. What kinds of prophecies appear? How do they foreshadow events in the novel, or help illuminate important aspects of characterization?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Imagine a scenario where Elise did not wish to sacrifice herself for Legion at the end of the novel. What would happen? What would Elise do next? Share your scenarios.

2. Imagine that you are a vow broker like Legion in New Timoran society. What special talents do you think you could bring to the role? How would you handle dealing with a reluctant bride like Elise?