Book Club discussion questions

I'm so glad your book club has chosen to read The Winter Witch. If you're the type of group that likes a few suggested questions to kick off the conversation, here are some to consider: 

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1. Is the love Élisabeth felt for Rémy genuine, or does she only cling to him because he offered her comfort and a distraction during a very challenging time in her life?

 

2. Does Marthe limit herself by rejecting the possibility of "true love" in pursuit of success? Is it fair for her to consider true love and success as two separate, unrelated things? 

 

3. The sisters feel distant, yet they show up for each other in moments of need. Why is their relationship this way?  

 

4. Despite everyone trying to explain her condition rationally, why does Élisabeth cling to witchcraft and possession rather than medicine and science? 

 

5. Why does Maman Poulin develop such a tight bond with Élisabeth and not Marthe? 

 

6. Jeanne Roy is repeatedly accused of being a witch when really she is just knowledgeable in science. What does this say about fear, ignorance, knowledge, and power? 

 

7. Do you think Jeanne is more forward-thinking than the other women in the story? If so, what made her this way? 

 

8. Father de Sancy exerts control through fear of demons and witches. Is he acting out of fear himself, or is he manipulating others to stay in power? 

 

9. What does this book say about women's power, both individually and when they stand together? 

 

10. Wari suggests that Élisabeth is not ignorant, but innocent. Do you agree? 

 

11. Does Élisabeth deserve the redemption she receives?