1. In what ways do you think Abby’s and Frances’s experiences of early motherhood mirror each other? How do they differ?
  2. Do you think Abby’s house is really haunted?
  3. Why do you think Frances is so fascinated with the Mary Stannard murder trial?
  4. Do you think Frances is truly unstable? Do you think she might have fared better in contemporary times—in general and as a mother?
  5. To what extent do you think societal expectations of mothers—particularly new mothers—have changed since Frances’ era? Which of those expectations have remained the same?