Book Club Discussion Questions and Guide for The Watermark by Sam Mills

1. What do you make of the section of the book set in the future? Does it seem plausible to you? What elements of it seem likely, or unlikely, and why? Is it a dystopia? A utopia? What do you think Mills is trying to say about our future?
2. In one section of the novel, Mills writes, "Closing my eyes, I listen, for Fate's narration has always been loudest in church…God sleeps" (pg. 143). What is Mills trying to communicate about the connection between fate and religion?
3. In one section, Jaime reflects, "Fate's book gave me the chance to know what it's like to have a good dad - one who loves you. Of course, I swear that bastard only did it so that he could destroy me by killing him off ...' (pg. 187). What does this sentiment show? In what ways do the themes of imprisonment and identity intertwine in the narrative, and how do the distinct settings reflect the characters' inner conflicts or growth?
4. What is the significance of the text in each story having a different typeface? The graphic elements between chapters? What effect do these have on the reader?
5. How do the main characters' relationships with their mothers play into the novel? What does this communicate about mothers in general?
6. Feminism is a source of discussion between the two main characters throughout the novel. How does this discussion play into the story?
7. The POV is switched throughout the novel between the two main characters. How does this contribute in representing their relationship?
8. How does the theme of juxtaposing death and rebirth manifest throughout the novel, and what significance does it hold for the overall narrative?
9. How is consciousness portrayed in the novel? Why is it so important?
10. What is the role of art in the novel? How does this contribute to representing the main characters? Their relationships with one another?
11. How does the novel explore the tension between fate and free will? Are Rachel and Jaime's actions truly their own? Or are they completely manipulated by Augustus?

Unless otherwise stated, this discussion guide is reprinted with the permission of Melville House. Any page references refer to a USA edition of the book, usually the trade paperback version, and may vary in other editions.