That Summer
Reading Group Discussion Guide
1. Julia reminds herself that a professor once told her that “the past is a foreign country.” Was that statement true or false in the context of this book?
2. Which story line did you find more interesting: Imogen's or Julia’s? Which woman did you relate to more?
3. Who do you think was responsible for what happened to Imogen and Gavin? Did the outcome of Imogen and Gavin’s story come as a surprise to you? What did you think was going to happen?
4. Both Imogen and Julia’s mother make impulsive romantic choices in their youth that shape their lives. Did you have early relationships you're grateful to be out of? If you were in a world, like Imogen, where divorce wasn't an option, what would you do?
5. If you were Julia, would you trust Nick?
6. The painting that Julia discovers depicts a scene from the legend of Tristan and Iseult. How familiar are you with this story? Do you feel sympathy for King Mark, Tristan or Iseult, or does it depend on which version of the story you are reading or watching?
7. Imogen finds it ironic that the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood wants to be “as true to life as possible” when their subjects are so often mythological. What do you think? Is there truth in a painting of a myth?
8. Nick is very clear that he prefers not to be called “Nicholas.” Why does Natalie insist on “Nicholas,” and why does Julie originally follow Natalie’s lead in this?
9. Did the outcome of Imogen and Gavin's story come as a surprise to you? What did you think was going to happen?
10. Who do YOU think killed Gavin? And why? How do you think things happened?
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