Official website of writer Deborah Hocutt, Virginia-based author of 'A Settler's Passion.'

A Settler’s Passion – Book Club Materials

Book Club Materials

A Settler’s Passion by Deborah Hocutt

Writing can start anywhere and at any time. I was asked to take an online course and evaluate its content, ease of use, instructor style, and the like. At the end of the six weeks, the final exam was assigned: “Submit the first two chapters of the book you have always wanted to write.”

So I wrote those two chapters and instead of just turning it in and forgetting about it, I kept writing. I was enjoying the process and by page fifty, I’d fallen in love with the characters. Thus, a novel was born.

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Discussion Questions for A Settler’s Passion

  1. What are the cultural differences between the class of the commoners and the aristocrats in Jamestowne? How did these differences affect the development of the colony?
  2. During the early 1600s, arranged marriages in aristocratic families especially were a common practice. What would be the benefits and the consequence for such an arrangement for women like Lady Elizabeth?
  3. Much of the storyline deals with cultural clashes, as well as physical battles, between the English settlers and the natives. How do these two groups differ? How are they alike?
  4. What is the unique point of view made by the native elders concerning the coming of the English?
  5. Thomas is asked to make a pledge to protect a young native boy. Why would he risk his life to protect someone his people considered “an enemy?” What was meant by “Death has a weight to it?”
  6. Many of the concepts in the book relate to the question, “Is honor worth the ultimate sacrifice?” What are your thoughts?