Isola: A Novel

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. The Prologue opens with Marguerite already stranded on the island. How does this opening shape your expectations for the narrative?

2. Isola is a historical fiction novel that expands sparse historic records of Marguerite de la Rocque’s exile. Have you read other books that expand or fictionalize the narrative of a historic female figure? (For example, Emily Franklin’s The Lioness of Boston, or Joyce Carol Oates’s Blonde) How does Isola compare?

3. Were you satisfied with the conclusion of Marguerite’s story? Why or why not?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Throughout her life, Marguerite struggles to accept that God has a divine plan for her, especially when she faces tragedy after tragedy. If you are religious, have you ever struggled with your faith? What events prompted these feelings of doubt? How does this inform your understanding of Marguerite’s spiritual journey?

2. Marguerite faces conflict because of her lack of agency as a woman. Have you ever felt restricted because of your gender? How did you try to overcome these restrictions?