The first chapter makes it clear that Tem regularly masturbates and has achieved orgasm before she begins training with Caspen. Why is it important that she is depicted as knowledgeable about her body before she begins exploring her sexuality with a partner?

Learning about Evelyn helps Tem to feel closer to Leo and builds trust between them. Was it surprising that Tem did not feel threatened by information about this past relationship? What is the significance that Evelyn (like Tem) was also from a lower social class than Leo?

Before he admits to loving her and explains that he wants to marry her, Tem is often in doubt about Caspen’s feelings for her. Identify some moments where communication is strained or confused between them. How does Caspen’s cryptic and laconic speaking style generate emotional confusion between them?

Analyze how participating in the ritual contributes to Tem’s development as a character. What personal fears and insecurities does she overcome while participating? How does her increased self-assurance impact the choices she makes in the second half of the plot?

Neither Caspen nor Leo has a living mother. How does the lack of maternal care impact their development and their bonds with their fathers?

While Tem is initially jealous of Adelaide, she comes to rely on her as a confidante and helper. How and why does this shift in their dynamic occur? What does Tem’s acceptance of Adelaide signal about her evolving views on relationships and loyalty?

Tem’s hybreed nature gives her exceptional power. How are hybridity and duality portrayed throughout the novel? What is the significance of these themes being explored in “romantasy”, which is itself a hybrid genre?

The major deity in Tem’s world is a goddess known as Kora. How do the novel’s portrayals of religion differ from monotheistic faiths? What does the novel imply about connections between religion and patriarchy?