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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Craig claim he won't be convicted?

2. Whose birthday does Cross forget?

3. What is Hughes' opinion of Craig?

4. Who treats Cross to breakfast in bed?

5. What does Craig use to stab Cross?

Short Essay Questions

1. What makes Cross think that Craig is about to do something to hurt his family?

2. What prompts Cross to wonder about the new Sire? Will there be someone to step into the role?

3. What is Cross' opinion of Charles? Is the opinion based on fact or instinct?

4. What is Hughes' reaction when Cross warns her not to go to Santa Cruz alone? Does Hughes heed the warning?

5. Who appears in place of Daniel and Charles? What was the purpose of the switch?

6. Why does the Mastermind call Cross to talk about the Taylors' murders?

7. Why is William cautious about choosing a victim in New Orleans? Does it deter him from feeding on a victim?

8. Why does Cross not feel the usual sense of relief after Westin is caught?

9. How is Cross able to stay in San Francisco when his family might be in danger?

10. How does Cross identify Jamilla from the other robed figures? How sure was Cross of the identification?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Cross and Jamilla are in the midst of a budding relationship during the case. Explain how the relationship affects the investigation. Did the involvement change anything? Were Cross' behavior or motives different during Jamilla's rescue because of the relationship?

Essay Topic 2

Part of the Mastermind's plan was to stalk and harass Cross before killing the detective. The Mastermind made good use of the phone to complete the plan. Craig electronically altered his voice and set up a remote trigger to place the calls. Explain how this might have been achieved.

Essay Topic 3

John Sampson typically plays an integral role in the Alex Cross series. However, in "Violets are Blue," Sampson has a supporting, albeit important, role. Why is Sampson's role in the story important? How might the story have changed if Sampson had not been involved?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 559 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample