Things We Hide From the Light

Research the trope of the “trauma plot.” How does the novel use Lina and Nash’s near-death experiences as characterization? Why is this useful shorthand in genre fiction? What does it leave out or oversimplify?

How does Score use description and imagery in the novel? Consider how weather, décor, clothing, and other visual details contribute to characterization and plot development.

Compare the novel’s parents: Anthony Hugo, Duke Morgan, Lina’s parents, and Lucian’s father. How do their behaviors affect the next generation?

Discuss the expectation of the happily-ever-after ending in romance fiction. Does this novel’s ending adopt or subvert this trope? Why or why not?

Tate Dilton refuses to explain his hatred of Nash. Using what we learn about his marriage, alcohol use, racism, and aggression, can you come up with a reasonable explanation of why he would want to kill the police chief?

Discuss how the novel positions its secondary characters to become the subjects of future Knockemout anthology series novels. How does Score create mystery and interest in characters not at the center of the plot?

Explore the novel’s take on desire and sexuality. How does Score satisfy reader expectations of titillation? What rhetorical and literary techniques heighten sexual suspense or enhance the descriptions of physical intimacy?

Compare friendships in the novel. How do Lina’s relationships with Sloane and Naomi differ from Nash’s friendships with Lucian and Knox? How are they different?