Discuss Gerritsen’s portrayal of life as an operative in the CIA. What are the characteristics of a spy’s life? What are some of the downsides? Support your argument with specific evidence from the text.

For many of the characters in the novel, like Phillip Hardwicke, control is important on both a personal and professional level. Choose two characters and discuss the role that control plays in their lives. How does Gerritsen explore the issue of control through these two characters?

Analyze Gerritsen’s exploration of ageism in The Spy Coast. How does she depict the issues surrounding ageism through the characters in the novel? Use specific examples from the text to support your argument.