The First Gentleman

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Did you enjoy reading The First Gentleman? What were your overall impressions of the book? Which character did you relate to most?

2. How does this novel compare to other political thrillers, such as Richard Condon’s The Manchurian Candidate or John LeCarré’s The Constant Gardener?

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

1. The plot of The First Genteman centers on Cole standing trial for a murder he didn’t commit. Have you ever been falsely accused of wrongdoing? How did you react?

2. When faced with adversity, Brea Cooke draws on memories of the racism her ancestors overcame to motivate her to keep going. Do you have a source of strength you rely on to overcome difficult situations?

3. Much of the action of The First Gentleman takes place in New England. Have you spent time in New England? Do you feel it was represented accurately?

4. The authors present jealousy and resentment as corruptive forces that drive them to cross moral lines. Has jealousy or resentment ever motivated you to act out of character?

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

1. How do the political machinations presented in The First Gentleman reflect the political climate of President Clinton’s time in office?

2. The fictional President Wright is loosely based on what Hilary Clinton might have been like had she been elected president. Do you agree with her fictional portrayal in the novel? What would you have changed or added?

3. The novel includes false, politically motivated rape allegations as a central element of the plot. How does the authors’ engagement with this topic reflect or subvert contemporary discourse around sexual assault and gendered power dynamics?

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

1. What does Cole’s conviction and eventual exoneration suggest about The Challenges of Pursuing Truth and Justice? How is this theme explored throughout The First Gentleman?

2. Compare and contrast the relationship between Brea and Garrett and the relationship between Cole and President Wright. How are they similar? Different?

3. How does the use of multiple perspectives create tension and mystery in The First Gentleman? How would the story have been different had it been entirely written from Brea’s perspective?

4. Do the authors present Cole as a sympathetic protagonist? If so, how? What literary techniques do they use to evoke empathy for Cole’s circumstances?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Write a description of a sequel to The First Gentleman. Would Brea have a role in the second term Wright administration? What new challenges might Cole face in his role as the first gentleman?

2. If this book were adapted into a movie or television show, who would you cast in the lead roles?