1. Why does Billy faint when he gets off the train in Tucson?

2. Koertge presents Wes as nearly perfect. His clothing and taste appear impeccable, he is a successful businessman, he commits himself to worthy social causes, and he is kind, compassionate, and giving. Is Wes too good to be true? Is he a believable character?

3. Billy and Abby obviously come from different levels of society than Cara Mae and Lew. What brings these couples together? Given their social differences and their ages, would either relationship last?

4. Why does Abby enjoy hearing about gloomy prophecies of the future?

5. Koertge handles the sex scenes in The Arizona Kid in a discreet and sensitive manner, concentrating more on Billy's emotions than the physical act, but are these scenes necessary to the story? Would the novel be as effective without them?

6. Should Billy and the others have contacted...