Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your initial feelings about the book’s premise, which mixes a cowboy romance with a reality TV satire? How well did you think the story balanced these two distinct genres?

2. For readers familiar with Elsie Silver’s other work, how did you feel Fever Dream connected to the Chestnut Springs series? Did your prior knowledge of Theo Silva from Flawless enhance your experience of his rivalry and relationship with Emmett?

3. Which element of the story resonated with you the most: the central romance between Emmett and Julia, the behind-the-scenes critique of reality television, or the heartfelt dynamics of the Brandt family?

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

1. Emmett’s choice to star on Romance Ranch is a huge personal sacrifice made for his family. Can you think of a time when you put the needs of your loved ones ahead of your own comfort or desires?

2. Julia is understandably guarded due to her past, which shapes her view of Emmett and his public persona. Have you ever had to overcome a strong first impression of someone, either positive or negative, after getting to know them better?

3. How does the conflict between Emmett’s public “Bush” persona and his private “Brandt” identity reflect the different roles you might play in your own life, such as at work versus with family?

4. In the novel, the Brandt family crawlspace is a secret spot for honest conversations. What role do private, safe spaces play in creating genuine connection in your own relationships?

5. Julia finds herself caught between loyalty to her brother, Theo, and her growing feelings for his rival, Emmett. Have you ever had to navigate conflicting loyalties to people you care about? How did you handle it?

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

1. The depiction of Romance Ranch offers a critique of reality television, showing how producers manufacture drama. Did reading this book change your perspective on real-life dating shows like The Bachelor or Love Is Blind?

2. Emmett’s reputation with women is presented as a part of his persona intrinsic to his bull-riding career. How does the novel’s representation reflect real-world pressures on athletes and other public figures to perform a certain identity for public consumption?

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

1. How does Silver use Emmett’s dual identity as both a Brandt and a Bush to explore family loyalty and personal integrity?

2. The story is told through Emmett’s and Julia’s alternating viewpoints, but it’s also interrupted by the producers’ memos. What was the effect of this narrative structure on your reading experience?

3. Richard Wadsworth acts as the story’s primary antagonist. Do you see him as simply a one-dimensional villain, or does he represent something larger?

4. What is the symbolic significance of the hidden camera in Emmett’s cottage? How does it function first as a tool of manipulation and later as the key to Richard’s downfall?

5. Theo is positioned as Emmett’s rival and foil. In what specific ways does Theo’s “golden boy” image contrast with Emmett’s broody persona to highlight Emmett’s internal struggles and growth?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Imagine you’re the host of a Romance Ranch reunion special. What is the one question you would ask Emmett, Julia, and Richard to get the most drama and the most truth?

2. If you were adapting Fever Dream into a movie, which scene would be the most challenging to film, and how would you approach it to capture its emotional weight?