Ann Kinnear for Book Clubs

Ann Kinnear has a unique ability to sense spirits. How does this ability shape her relationships and her approach to solving mysteries? Do you think her gift is more of a blessing or a curse, and why?
The novel’s setting—Philadelphia’s historic neighborhoods—plays a significant role in the story. How do the locations enhance the suspense and atmosphere? Which setting did you find most compelling, and why?
Ann’s interactions with Detective Joe Booth are often marked by skepticism and tension. How does their dynamic evolve throughout the story? What do you think of Joe’s response to Ann’s abilities—realistic or overly dismissive?
The novel explores themes of justice and closure, both for the living and the dead. In what ways does Ann’s work bring closure to the spirits she encounters, and how does it affect her personally?
Throughout the book, Ann struggles with the ethical implications of using her abilities. Do you think she handles these dilemmas well? How would you approach similar moral questions if you were in her position?

The devastating Fire of ’47 on Mount Desert Island serves as both a historical backdrop and a central plot element. How does the depiction of this event contribute to the novel’s suspense? Did you feel the historical detail added to or distracted from the story?
Ann Kinnear travels to Maine to escape personal challenges but ends up facing new, supernatural ones. How does the change in setting—from Philadelphia to Mount Desert Island—affect Ann’s character and the story’s tone?
Ann’s evolving abilities to communicate with spirits are tested in unexpected ways in this novel. How do you think her gift is progressing compared to the previous book, The Sense of Death, and what does this suggest about her future?
The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and confronting one’s past. How do these themes play out among the living and the dead? Which character’s journey did you find the most compelling in this regard, and why?
Ann’s relationship with her brother Mike continues to develop in The Sense of Reckoning. How does their bond influence Ann’s decisions throughout the story? Do you think her reliance on family and friends is a source of strength or vulnerability?

The aviation world is a significant part of the novel’s setting and plot. How does the author use the world of small airports and private pilots to build suspense and deepen the story? Did you learn anything new about this world that intrigued you?
The dynamic between Ann Kinnear and her brother Mike plays a central role in the series. In The Falcon and the Owl, how does their relationship evolve? How does Mike’s involvement in Ann’s investigations influence the direction and outcome of this particular case?
The novel explores themes of ambition and deception among the characters connected to the aviation community. Which character’s motives were the most surprising to you, and how did these surprises impact your understanding of the mystery?
Ann’s spiritual abilities are once again at the forefront of the investigation, but in The Falcon and the Owl, she faces both new challenges and ethical dilemmas. How do these experiences affect her confidence in using her gift? Do you think she is growing more comfortable with her abilities, or does she remain wary of their implications?
The title, The Falcon and the Owl, suggests the ideas of vision and wisdom. How do these symbols connect to the central themes of the novel? In what ways do they represent the characters or the larger mystery Ann is trying to solve?

In A Furnace for Your Foe, Ann Kinnear faces new dangers as she investigates a case involving controversial figures. How does this case differ from her previous ones, and what impact does it have on her personally and professionally?
The title, A Furnace for Your Foe, suggests themes of revenge, anger, and retribution. How do these themes manifest in the characters’ actions and motivations throughout the story? Do you think any of the characters’ responses were justified?
Ann’s growing reputation as someone who can communicate with the dead attracts a range of reactions, from skepticism to desperation. How does public perception of Ann’s abilities evolve in this novel, and what challenges or opportunities does it present for her?
This novel delves deeply into ethical questions surrounding Ann’s work, especially when it involves emotionally charged topics like justice and closure. Do you think Ann handles these ethical dilemmas well, or does she overstep boundaries in her pursuit of the truth?
Throughout the series, Ann’s personal relationships, particularly with her brother Mike and Detective Joe Booth, are tested by her work. In A Furnace for Your Foe, how do these relationships influence Ann’s decisions and actions? Do you think Ann is becoming more isolated, or is she learning to lean on her support system?

The novel’s title, A Serpent’s Tooth, evokes betrayal and hidden dangers. How do these themes unfold throughout the story, and which character’s actions best embody these concepts? Were there moments when you felt betrayed alongside Ann?
In A Serpent’s Tooth, Ann Kinnear encounters individuals who use deception to protect themselves or others. How do these layers of deception complicate Ann’s investigation? Which character’s deception surprised you the most, and why?
The novel explores family secrets and long-buried traumas. How does Ann’s own past inform her approach to uncovering other characters’ secrets in this story? Do you think her personal history makes her more empathetic, or does it hinder her objectivity?
Ann’s abilities put her in the path of powerful people who don’t want the truth revealed. How does she balance the risks to her own safety with her commitment to finding answers? Do you think she is becoming more courageous or more reckless as the series progresses?
The setting plays a crucial role in creating the novel’s atmosphere. How does the author use the physical environment to heighten the suspense and mirror the characters’ internal conflicts? Which setting in the novel had the greatest impact on you, and why?

The title, Be with the Dead, suggests themes of lingering spirits and unresolved matters. How do these themes manifest throughout the novel, and how do they affect Ann Kinnear’s approach to her investigation? What do you think the title symbolizes in the context of Ann’s journey?
Ann’s psychic abilities continue to evolve as she confronts increasingly complex cases. In this novel, how do her abilities both help and hinder her investigation? Do you think Ann is becoming more confident in using her gift, or are the challenges weighing more heavily on her?
The novel delves into the concept of justice for both the living and the dead. How does Ann navigate the ethical dilemmas she faces when trying to bring closure to both groups? Were there any moments when you questioned her choices, and if so, why?
Ann’s personal relationships, especially with Mike and Joe, play a significant role in the story. How do these relationships affect her decision-making and approach to the case? Do you think Ann’s increasing dependence on her loved ones is a strength or a vulnerability?
The setting of the novel shifts between the physical and the supernatural realms. How does the author use these contrasting environments to build suspense and enhance the story? Which setting or scene stood out to you the most, and what made it memorable?