Book Club Discussion Questions for To Outwit Them All
What were your initial impressions of Betty Floyd as the protagonist? How did her background, including her family's divided loyalties and her physical disability, influence your connection to her character?
Discuss the relationship between Betty and her cousin Robert Townsend. How do their conversations highlight their personalities, and in what ways do they add to the story’s tension?
The novel is set in British-occupied New York City during 1779–1780. How effectively does the author portray the contrasts between opulent social events and the harsh realities of prisons, shortages, and wartime occupation?
Major John André is a central historical figure in the story. What did you think of his portrayal, and how did his interactions with Betty add to the tension between duty and personal desire?
Explore the theme of espionage and deception in the Culper Spy Ring. How does Betty's journey from neutrality to involvement reflect the risks ordinary people took for the Patriot cause?
Betty's deformed hand plays a significant role in her self-perception and interactions. In what ways does the book address themes of overcoming personal insecurities and societal judgments?
Discuss Betty’s relationship with her father and how it influenced her view of herself initially and as the story progressed.
Family plays a crucial role, from Betty's mother Margaret to her brother Joe and extended relatives like Uncle William Floyd. How do these familial ties influence Betty's decisions and growth throughout the novel?
Were there any surprising twists or pivotal moments that shifted your understanding of the characters or plot? How did they enhance the suspense?
The story incorporates real historical events, such as the conditions in prisons like Rhinelander's Sugar House. Did reading this book change your perspective on women's contributions to the American Revolution?
Discuss the faith element in the story. How does Betty’s faith affect her decisions?
How satisfying was the ending? Did it leave you reflecting on themes of sacrifice, resilience, or the cost of freedom? Do you think the author presented a convincing portrayal of Betty Floyd as a plausible candidate for the real 355?
What did you think of the epilogue? What was its purpose?