Reader discussion
Lizzy Ballard for Book Clubs
Questions for discussing Lizzy’s read-in-order, high-stakes story.
Spoiler warning: The questions below reveal important events and outcomes. Choose only the title your group has finished; the series is best read in order.
Book 1: Rock Paper Scissors
- How does “the squeeze” shape Lizzy’s character and choices? Is it gift or curse?
- How do power and control drive the story’s conflict?
- How does the title’s game of strategy and chance apply to the characters’ relationships?
- How do family loyalty and betrayal influence Lizzy’s journey?
- Which moments of action or suspense stood out most?
- What are your hopes or predictions for Lizzy after the ending?
Book 2: Snakes and Ladders
- How does the title’s game of reversals apply to Lizzy’s challenges?
- How does her evolving control of the squeeze affect her relationships and moral choices?
- Which new ally or adversary most affects her development?
- How does Lizzy decide whom to trust, and with what consequences?
- Which twists best maintained the suspense?
- How has Lizzy grown since Book 1?
Book 3: The Iron Ring
- What new aspects of Lizzy’s strength, resilience, or abilities emerge?
- How does the title suggest confinement or control?
- Which relationship most strongly shapes Lizzy’s decisions?
- What does the book say about power, control, and freedom?
- Which moment created the greatest tension?
- How does this installment advance the larger series arc?
Book 3½: Kill Box Checkmate
- How do the ideas of a “kill box” and “checkmate” shape Louise’s decisions?
- How does Louise compare with Lizzy, and what does she bring to this world?
- What strategies does Louise use to survive and outmaneuver her adversaries?
- How does the story’s connection to the Lizzy Ballard series enrich it?
- How does the novella length affect the story’s intensity?
- Were you satisfied with Louise’s resolution, and what might come next?
Book 4: Scare Card
- How does the title reflect the risks and dangers Lizzy faces?
- How does Lizzy’s understanding of her evolving power affect her actions?
- Which new threat or adversary is most compelling?
- What do loyalty and betrayal reveal about Lizzy’s approach to trust?
- Which action or suspense sequence stood out most?
- How does Lizzy grow, personally and in her abilities?
Book 5: Drawing Dead
- Does Lizzy view her power more as strength or vulnerability, and how does that shape her decisions?
- How does the poker meaning of “drawing dead” apply to Lizzy’s journey?
- Which morally complex choice did you question, and what alternative might she have taken?
- Which relationship is most pivotal to Lizzy’s actions?
- Which scene best demonstrates how the novel builds and sustains tension?