Heartless Hunter

Compare and contrast Alex’s and Verity’s characters. How are their friendships with Rune similar, and how do they differ?

Considering the witch characters throughout the novel, what reasons do non-magical citizens of the Republic have to hate or fear witches? In what ways is Rune involved in ethical dilemmas due to her status as a witch? Is this an inherent conflict due to her species, or is it a conflict born from external factors such as societal stigma?

What thematic material does the historical context of real-life witch hunts offer to novels like this? How does the novel utilize general understandings of witch hunts to develop its themes and characters?

Gideon has intense, negative views of witches due to his experience with Cressida and her sisters. How does Harrow’s presented idea (that Gideon courts Rune for reconnaissance) catalyze him to reevaluate his beliefs and values? Does their growing relationship encourage him to reevaluate his past prejudice from a new perspective?

Consider key elements of the enemies-to-lovers trope often seen in fantasy romance. How does this novel subvert or adhere to the stereotypical aspects of this trope?

Near the beginning of the novel, Harrow says to Gideon, “Isn’t that the point of art—to tame the monsters in us?” (40). What role does art such as plays, paintings, music, or literature play in the novel? What does it reveal about the characters or their narrative?

How do the Blood Guard’s actions and beliefs and other witch-hating citizens illustrate the dangers of zealotry? Do Gideon and Rune gain tolerance and understanding toward their opposing factions? How might what they learned affect their relationship in the sequel?

How does the author use foreshadowing to hint at Verity’s true identity? List three examples from the text. Explain what small fact they subtly disclose about Verity’s ruse.