Book Club Questions for
The Black Sheep Heir

1. How have Lacey and Connor literally isolated themselves from everyone else? What inner conflicts keep them from committing to each other? What advice would you give to help them overcome their struggles?

2. Connor has a love/hate relationship with the Spencers. Why? If you were in his place, would you choose family over Lacey? What reasons does he have to remain loyal to each? Why can’t he choose both?

3. Connor notes that Lacey seems “sweet as power puffs and sugar cookies,” even though she’s tough on the inside. Do you think her appearance helps or hinders her when it comes to running a business or standing up to the Spencers? Generally, does the way a woman looks dictate how she’s treated by others? Have you or your friends ever been handled badly, or even better than you anticipated, due to your appearance? Is it right for a woman to take advantage of this?

4. How is Connor portrayed physically (clothing, imagery, etc.)? How do his descriptions symbolize his code of ethics and motivations?

5. Why do some citizens in Kane’s Crossing treat Lacey badly? Why does she stay and suffer their treatment? If you were Lacey, would you remain in this town? Why/why not?

6. One theme of this book is the search for identity or the quest to define oneself. How is the theme reflected in Lacey? Connor? The Wanderer? Can you use examples to support your opinions?

7. Most of us have been touched by cancer, whether the disease has attacked a family member, a friend, or our own bodies. How does Mrs. Langley’s cancer affect Connor’s sense of control and self? Is he justified in demanding that the Spencers shoulder some of the disease’s burden? Why/why not?

8. Describe Lacey’s relationship with her mother. How did it shape her life? Now contrast this relationship with that of Conn and his mother. How would each of their lives have been affected if their mothers were switched? What does Connor’s real dad have in common with Lacey’s mom? What kind of bond does this form between the hero and heroine?

9. What do you know about severe depression? Are you acquainted with anyone who has suffered from it? Do you believe it’s a valid malady or do you think it’s an excuse for someone to wallow in self-pity? How does your opinion form your perception of Lacey and why?

10. What is the symbolism of the glass castle? How does it apply to Lacey? To her relationship with Connor?

11. Besides the glass castle, there are other references to fairy tales. What stories correspond to “Someone had been sleeping in her bed” and “Who’s the fairest of them all”? How do these two tales fit in with Connor’s and Lacey’s lives?

12. Lacey was sent to a mental health clinic when she was found cutting her skin with a sharp object. What do you know about the phenomenon called “cutting”? Why do people—usually young women and teenage girls—do it? Why do you think Lacey tried it?

13. “Great ventures take great risks,” say the characters. How does the phrase apply to Connor? To Lacey? How can it be applied to your own life?

14. In five years, will Lacey and Connor still be together? Why/why not? What do you predict their lives will be like?

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