The Second Mrs. Astor: A Heartbreaking Historical Novel of the Titanic

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of death.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. The novel’s narrative alternates between Madeleine’s first-person recollections and a third-person description of unfolding events. How effective did you find this storytelling approach in creating dramatic irony and emotional impact?

2. How does Abé’s portrayal of the Titanic disaster compare to other depictions you’ve encountered, such as Iceberg by Jennifer Nielsen? What unique perspective does telling the story through Madeleine’s eyes offer?

3. The novel presents an intimate perspective on historical events and figures. Did reading this fictionalized account of real people change your understanding of the Titanic disaster or the Gilded Age? In what ways?

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

1. Madeleine faces intense public scrutiny throughout her relationship with Jack. When have you navigated situations where your personal choices were judged by others, even if on a smaller scale than what Madeleine experienced?

2. The novel explores how wealth and privilege create insulation from ordinary concerns and yet can also lead to isolation.