Book Club Guide

1) Do you think Saboor really has special powers? Do you believe he knew the cup was poisoned, and that Mariana would rescue him? Why do you think so?

2) Most of the British in Mariana's India believe they are superior to the natives. Does Mariana herself feel superior as the story begins? Do her feelings change as the story progresses?

3) The British and the natives interpret the events of the story very differently. Why is this? As events unfold, does anyone understand clearly what is happening? How much insight does Mariana gain into the Waliullah family's point of view?

4) Which features of Mariana's personality and history contribute to her decision to save Saboor? Do you think she is drawn to him because he needs her, or because she needs something from him?

5) Mariana's view of Shaikh Walliullah changes several times during the story. Do you think she ever truly understands who he is?

6) What do you think of the life of a queen at the Maharajah's Citadel at Lahore? How is it different from life at the ladies' quarters at the Shaikh's haveli? Does Safiya Sultana have power in her own world?

7) Mariana sees her experience at the Citadel as a terrifying ordeal. Do the queens think it is? Do they really hate Mariana?

8) How do you explain Hassan's actions on his wedding night? Would an Englishman such as Harry Fitzgerald have behaved the same way in that situation?

9) Why does Mariana believe she could never stay in the walled city? What makes her want to return to the British camp after she has been treated so badly by the Eden sisters? Do you think she makes the right decision?

10) Hassan and Mariana are very different people. Do you think he would like to see her again? If so, what do you think he sees in her?