Deceptive Intentions by M.L. Malcolm

Silent Lies by M.L. Malcolm

1. In many ways Leo is a deeply flawed character. Did this affect how you related to him? Can you think of any other literary figures who were similarly "morally challenged?"
   
   
2. Leo denies his Jewish heritage in an attempt to protect his family. What do you think of this decision?
   
   
3. Martha and Leo both survive very tragic events in their lives. How do you think this affects them? What do you think of their reactions?
   
   
4. Why do you think Leo made Maddy go with Amelia? To protect her, or himself?
   
   
5. Which character seemed the most real to you?
   
   
6. A different river is featured in every location. What, if anything, do you think each river symbolizes?
   
   
7. What, if any, parallels do you see between the political situation in China in the 1920's and '30's, and some global trouble spots today? Is there anything to be learned from the experience of the European powers in Shanghai?
   
   
8. A much older woman seduces Leo when he is very young. What, if anything, do you think this adds to the story? To the development of Leo's character?

Book Group Discussion Questions for Deceptive Intentions

1. Maddy's piano teacher tells her, "Artists are different." Christine Granville tells Leo, "Some of us are just not suited to the rhythm of ordinary life." Do you agree that people with special talents ought not to be judged by what Gene refers to as, "rules created for other people?" Under what circumstances?
   
   
2. What do you think of Leo's decision to go to France when his actions jeopardize his ability to reunite with his own child? Why do you think he decided to fight in the cold war rather than fight to win back his daughter?
   
   
3. At Katherine's graduation celebration, Maddy is envious of her friend's ability to "never feel guilty about what she wanted, or to fret about the price she might have to pay to get it." What do you suppose makes her feel this way? As the novel progresses, does Maddy change in this regard, or does she just exchange fear for self-denial?
   
   
4. What explains Leo's attraction to Christine, given that he knows that she's not likely to be faithful? Is there anything about their respective characters that make them better spies?
   
   
5. Harry tells Maddy that everything, "even people" is held together by "stable little pieces" and that "one must understand the forces that connect them, in order to guarantee that stability." What do you think of that statement? Does it apply only to physical "pieces" or metaphysical forces as well?
   
   
6. The author makes substantial use of real historical figures. Do you think she did so effectively? Which was your favorite character (real or fictional) and why?
   
   
7. For those who have read the prequel, Silent Lies, how do they compare in mood, plot development, and characterization? Are there a lot of parallels in the lives of the characters of the two books? Do you prefer one over the other? If so, why?