1. Sue Ellen Bridgers has chosen names for her characters that seem to be symbolic. Discuss the symbolism of these names: Sara Will, Swanee Hope, Eva, Michael, and Fate.

2. Describe the setting of the novel and discuss how it adds or detracts from the plot.

3. How is the novel divided? Do these sections have any significance?

Explain.

4. Compare and contrast Sara Will and Swanee Hope.

5. There are two romances in this story. How would you compare the two?

6. Sara Will involves the families of three generations. With which generation do you identify? Why?