What role do silence and silencing play in the novel? To what extent does Meissner present silence as a state of disempowerment? Refer to at least two characters in your answer.

In what ways does Meissner prioritize female solidarity over romantic love between a man and a woman? Refer to at least three different relationships in your answer.

What traits do heroine Sophie and villain Martin have in common? How does Sophie’s relationship with these traits change as the novel progresses?