Discuss Whitney Stone. Who is Whitney? Why is she introduced while riding on the back of a horse, standing up? What does this stunt tell the reader about Whitney? How is this introduction reinforced as the plot begins to unfold? Who is Paul? How does Whitney feel about Paul? How does this relationship interfere with Clayton's intentions toward Whitney?

Discuss Clayton Westmoreland. Who is Clayton? What title does he hold? Why does he become fascinated with Whitney? Why does Whitney ignore him the first few times they meet? How does this impact Clayton's later decision to marry her? Why does Clayton want to marry Whitney? What does Clayton hope to achieve from this match? Is Clayton in love with Whitney?

Discuss Nicolas DuVille. Who is Nicolas? Why is Nicolas reluctant to meet Whitney? Why does Nicolas change his mind about Whitney? What does Nicolas...