Tag Archives: Book club questions

Book Clubbin’: 8 Discussions Questions for ‘Onyx Storm’ by Rebecca Yarros

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We’re back with another Book Clubbin’ feature, and this time, we’re getting into Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros, narrated by Jasmin Walker, Rebecca Soler, Teddy Hamilton, and Justis Bolding.

As the third book in the Empyrean series, Onyx Storm takes the action beyond Basgiath War College as Violet Sorrengail faces her most dangerous mission yet. With the Aretian wards failing and enemies closing in, Violet must venture into uncharted territory in search of allies willing to stand against Navarre’s looming war. But with treachery lurking in every shadow, trust is a luxury she can’t afford—and the secret she carries could change everything.

Rebecca Yarros delivers another heart-pounding installment packed with high-stakes battles, political intrigue, and the fiery tension between Violet and Xaden. As new truths emerge and the storm of war brews, the question isn’t just who will win—but who will survive.

If you’re ready to dissect every twist and turn with your book club, we’ve got some thought-provoking discussion questions to get you started. Beware—SPOILERS ahead!

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros book cover

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) Onyx Storm dives deeper into the world of Basgiath and beyond—what new revelations or lore did you find most intriguing?

2) Violet and Xaden continue to evolve as characters. How did their individual growth impact their relationship in this book?

3) The series is known for its high-stakes action and emotional intensity. What was the most shocking or unforgettable moment for you in Onyx Storm?

4) We see more of the secondary characters playing key roles—who stood out to you the most, and who do you hope gets more development in future books?

5) Andarna continues to grow in power and personality. What did you think of her development in this book, and how do you think she’ll influence the story moving forward?

6) Onyx Storm left us with another major cliffhanger. What are your theories for the next installment, and what unanswered questions are you most eager to explore?

7) This book expands on the political and military struggles of the world. How do you think these conflicts will shape the final two books of the series?

8) The Empyrean series is set to be five books long. Are you excited about the remaining installments, or do you think the story should have wrapped up sooner?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a book from our VIP selection, when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 10 Discussion Questions for ‘Fourth Wing’ by Rebecca Yarros

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We’re back with another Book Clubbin’ feature, and this time, we’re diving into Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, narrated by Rebecca Soler and Teddy Hamilton.

Fourth Wing, the first book in the Empyrean series, has taken the fantasy world by storm with its gripping blend of romance, danger, and political intrigue. Rebecca Yarros crafts a vivid tale filled with fierce competition, deadly secrets, and dragons—a winning combination that has captivated readers and listeners alike.

The story follows Violet Sorrengail, a young woman thrust into the brutal war college of Basgiath, where only the strongest survive. Tasked with bonding with a dragon to secure her place in the Riders Quadrant, Violet must navigate treacherous rivalries, impossible odds, and her growing feelings for the enigmatic Xaden Riorson. Along the way, she discovers truths that could change the fate of their world forever.

If you’re drawn to stories brimming with heart-stopping action, complex characters, and morally gray decisions, Fourth Wing is a must-listen. Yarros masterfully weaves together themes of loyalty, resilience, and the blurred lines between heroism and rebellion, leaving readers eager for the next installment. For those planning to explore Fourth Wing with their book club, we’ve got some thought-provoking questions to spark your discussions. Beware—SPOILERS ahead!

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) The Riders Quadrant is full of brutal challenges. How did Violet’s physical limitations and her approach to overcoming them shape your view of her as a protagonist?

2) Dragons play a central role in the story. How do the bonds between Violet, Tairn, and Andarna reflect the novel’s themes of trust and partnership?

3) Xaden is a complex and polarizing character. What did you think about his actions throughout the story? Did your perception of him change by the end?

4) Violet’s relationship with her mother, General Sorrengail, is tense. How did their dynamic evolve, and how did it impact Violet’s choices?

5) The book delves into themes of loyalty and rebellion. How did the revelations about the insurgents and Basgiath’s leadership affect your perspective on the Riders Quadrant?

6) How did the dual narration by Rebecca Soler and Teddy Hamilton enhance your audiobook experience? Did their performances influence how you connected with the characters?

7) The friendships Violet forms, especially with characters like Rhiannon and Liam, play a key role in her survival. How did these relationships add depth to the story?

8) The audiobook balances romance and action. How did you feel about the pacing and how the romantic elements were integrated with the main plot?

9) Violet’s journey is about proving herself in a world designed to see her fail. What moments stood out to you as defining her growth?

10) What do you hope to see in the sequel, Iron Flame?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a book from our VIP selection, when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 8 Discussion Questions for ‘The Women’ by Kristin Hannah

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We’re back with another Book Clubbin’ feature, and this round, we’re diving into The Women by Kristin Hannah, narrated by Julia Whelan.

Kristin Hannah, the bestselling author renowned for her emotional and impactful storytelling, delivers yet another powerful narrative with her latest release, The Women. Known for crafting stories that explore the complexities of relationships, human resilience, and historical events, Hannah takes readers on a journey through the Vietnam War era, shining a light on the often-overlooked experiences of women during this tumultuous time.

The Women follows Frankie McGrath, a determined young woman who defies societal expectations to serve as a nurse in the Vietnam War. The novel captures her journey from the battlefields of Vietnam back to the home front, where she grapples with the scars of war and the challenges of reintegration into a society that fails to acknowledge the sacrifices of women like her.

If you’re drawn to stories that delve into the untold aspects of history and explore the resilience of the human spirit, The Women is a must-listen. Kristin Hannah’s gripping narrative and unforgettable characters promise to leave a lasting impact on readers, offering both an intimate portrait of the personal cost of war and a broader commentary on the cultural shifts of the 1960s and ’70s. For those planning to delve into The Women with their book club, keep reading for our discussion questions that will enrich your understanding of this poignant tale. Beware— SPOILERS ahead.

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) What understanding of the Vietnam War did you bring into your reading experience? What did you find most interesting to learn?

2) How does Frankie McGrath’s character evolve throughout the novel, and what pivotal moments shape her development?

3) How does the novel portray the impact of war on personal identity and mental health, particularly for women like Frankie?

4) How do Frankie, Barb, and Ethel’s relationships with each other reflect the themes of friendship and sisterhood in the novel? Did you see parallels to friendships in your own life?

5) How did you feel about the evolution of Frankie’s relationship with her parents? Was it toxic or healthy that they reconciled?

6) Did you agree with Frankie that women who did not serve in combat but still went to war should have a place on her father’s wall of heroes?

7) How does the novel explore the theme of gender and societal expectations? In what was do you think society has evolved or still needs to evolve?

8) How do the themes of storytelling and sharing personal narratives empower the characters, particularly Frankie, to find healing and closure?

9) How did you feel about Frankie’s romantic interests throughout the course of the story? Were you satisfied with the ending?

10) Have you read other Kristin Hannah books? How did The Women rank compared to the others?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 7 Discussion Questions for ‘It Starts with Us’ by Colleen Hoover

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Our Book Clubbin’ blog feature is back and this time we’re diving into the super-hyped and highly anticipated sequel to It Ends with Us – It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover.

In this latest listen from Hoover, we pick up where we left off in It Ends with Us where Lily runs into her childhood love, Atlas, as she settles into a co-parenting routine with Ryle. Even though Atlas and Lily think the timing could be right this time around, Ryle is still very much involved in her and her daughter’s lives. Switching between Lily and Atlas’ perspectives, It Starts with Us reveals more about Atlas’s past and follows Lily as she embraces a second chance at true love while navigating a jealous ex-husband.

Colleen Hoover is back with another emotional listen that is sure to have you reaching for the tissues, so if you’re on the CoHo train and have also picked up It Starts with Us for your book club this month, then keep reading for our discussion questions below. Beware— SPOILERS ahead.

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) What is your interpretation of the title It Starts with Us?

2) Do you think that this listen focused too much on new characters rather than Atlas and Lily’s relationship?

3) Lily wrote letters to Ellen in It Ends with Us. Do you think the letters to Ellen were necessary to highlight in this sequel?

4) Do you think Marshall made the right decision to stay with Allysa after she had cheated on him?

5) Did Ryle’s portrayal in It Starts with Us change your opinion of him at all?

6) How did It Starts with Us live up to what you expected for this highly anticipated sequel?

7) Do you think that Lily, Atlas, and Ryle could all make co-parenting together work in the future?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 8 Discussion Questions for ‘The Paris Apartment’ by Lucy Foley

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Our Book Clubbin’ blog feature is back and this time we’re getting immersed in a highly anticipated listen from the bestselling author of The Hunting Party and The Guest List. We’re chatting about The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley.

In this latest listen from Foley, we follow Jess as she leaves her job and travels to Paris where she plans to stay with her brother, Ben, while she figures out what’s next. When she arrives, Ben is nowhere to be found. She begins looking into his disappearance and as she uncovers more about her brother, the apartment he lives in, and its residents she is sent on a frenzied path to discovery of the truth.

The Paris Apartment is a dark and twisty mystery/thriller listen that will keep you guessing until the very end. If you and your book club are getting lost in The Paris Apartment this month, then keep keep reading for our discussion questions below. Beware— SPOILERS ahead.

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) Did you feel like you were racing to the end of this listen or was it more of a slow burn?

2) Discuss the importance of wealth throughout this story. How does Jess compare to the other residents of the apartment building?

3) Did you notice any other prevalent themes throughout this listen?

4) Even though this listen is set in the bustling city of Paris, the apartment still feels very isolated. How do you think that contributes to the story?

5) Would you have preferred to have the story told solely told from Jess’ perspective?

6) Which character/neighbor were you most suspicious of before the final twist was revealed?

7) How do you think Jess and Ben’s relationship changed after this experience? What about the other characters?

8) If you’ve read The Guest List or The Hunting Party by Foley, how do you think The Paris Apartment differs from those listens?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 10 Discussion Questions for ‘The Hush’ by Sara Foster

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Our Book Clubbin’ blog feature has returned and this time we’re diving into a pulse-pounding new thriller from the bestselling author of You Don’t Know Me. Learn all about this gripping listen in the special shoutout video below from author Sara Foster!

Keep reading for our discussion questions. Beware— SPOILERS ahead.

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) Which character in The Hush did you relate to the most and why?

2) How do the female characters fit into your ideas and definitions of feminism?

3) The author envisages a world just a few steps away from our own. How do you feel about the world she portrays? How does or doesn’t it intersect with your own ideas about where the world might be in five or ten years? Were there any real-life parallels in this near-future world that stood out to you?

4) What do you think of Emma and Lainey’s relationship? How does it compare to your idea of a typical mother-daughter relationship?

5) Discuss the attitudes of those who work in Whitehaven Hospital, the way the expectant mothers are treated, and the different ways the nurses try to support the mothers. Where do your sympathies lie?

6) The three generations of women who are central to the story — Geraldine, Emma, and Lainey — are all mothers and daughters. How do you think their experience of being a daughter has shaped (or will shape) their ideas of motherhood?

7) Novels about women’s disparate identities and experiences are very popular right now. Discuss how The Hush compares and contrasts to other books that explore similar themes.

8) In the scenes at Horcombe House the author has included lots of fairytale symbolism. Did you spot any, and why do you think the author chose to put them here?

9) “The system that supports you can also be used to control you,” says Geraldine to Emma as they work to get Lainey back. What do you think of Geraldine’s worldview as presented in the novel? How do you think it compares to Emma and Lainey’s ideas about the world?

10) What do you imagine happens after the endpoint of the novel? How did it leave you feeling about the future for this group of women?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!