Question H

[Jonetta]

We’ve discussed the issue of disparity in justice between the haves and have nots. This story faced the issue head on. What were some of the quandaries Felix faced as Frank uncovered more and more disparaging information about Chilton? Do you think he was in a different head space about it by the end of the investigation? Why or why not?

[Robin]

I believe Felix was conflicted about the victim. Should he make it general knowledge what kind of monster Chilton really was? Would letting out those secrets hurt the Devries family?

I liked that Felix was upset about the death of the valet and he was also surprised that his daughter thought he was callus enough not to be moved by it. This certainly helped his character make a big leap forward in my mind. We knew so little about him before this book.

[Jonetta]

I found it amazing that Devries was so well respected amongst his peers despite that financial con he pulled off. Felix’s reaction to that surprised me, that it was Garnet’s father’s fault for investing if he couldn’t afford to lose. And, how could Devries treat so many women despicably and no one know it?

It was so interesting to see Felix, and Elizabeth, evolve in this story. They got to see the realities of lives without power or means. I do believe Felix’s outlook has shifted some but not by a wide margin. Elizabeth’s reaction surprised me. She was willing to disparage Lucretia’s reputation until Sarah reminded her that the backlash would extend to Garnet and Paul.

[Jonetta]

Robin wrote: "I liked that Felix was upset about the death of the valet and he was also surprised that his daughter thought he was callus enough not to be moved by it. This certainly helped his character make a big leap forward in my mind. We knew so little about him before this book...."

Before this case, I don’t think Felix would have cared about Roderick’s death. You make a great point here.

[~ Giulia ~]

I really liked getting to know Felix better. Until now we only saw him through Sarah's eyes (and her view was deeply influenced by what happened to her sister) or Frank's (and he saw just another powerful rich person). It's good to see that a person can change.

[Lauren]

Yes, it was interesting to see the change Felix has undergone. The fact that he cared about Roderick's murder and wanted justice here emphasized this considerably.