The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle

Aiden comes to feel that being able to occupy the bodies of different hosts gives him a significant advantage in solving the crime. What are the advantages and disadvantages of occupying different hosts? How does this relate to the author’s message on perspective and morality? What about empathy?

Aiden is never sure who to trust, especially when it comes to Anna, Daniel, and the Plague Doctor. What factors make him willing or unwilling to trust another character? Is there anyone whom he trusts too easily?

Aiden “dies” repeatedly throughout the novel, but because of the body switching aspect of the plot, he just reappears in a new body. What is the impact of death not being permanent? Does it make the pervasive violence any less disturbing?

Why are Anna and Aiden good allies and partners as they work to solve the crime? How do their strengths complement one another?

How does Turton adhere to classic detective tropes? How does he subvert them?

How does the interaction between Silver Tear and the Plague Doctor change the context of the game and their role in it? Is the Plague Doctor justified in interfering to help Aiden?

Is Michael Hardcastle justified in trying to kill his sister in order to save her from an unhappy marriage? Is Aiden justified in wanting Anna dead initially? Compare the different sibling relationships in the novel as you consider your answer.

Two important female characters (Anna and Evelyn) are both eventually revealed as violent killers. Is it surprising or unusual to see women represented in this way? What might a feminist reading of this novel reveal?