Book Club Discussion Questions and Guide for The Last Hamilton by Jenn Bregman

1. The novel opens with Elizabeth Hamilton Walker throwing herself in front of a subway train to prevent the bad guys from getting the key to the trove tucked in her pocket. Can you imagine doing such a thing yourself? If so, for what or for whom would you do that?
2. How do you think Elizabeth felt about being The Last Hamilton? At one point, she is angry and resentful. How do you think she usually felt? Do you think she handled her responsibilities well? Was she a good steward?
3. Do you think Elizabeth was wrong to impress such a significant, possibly deadly, duty upon Sarah and Ralph? Was it fair to do to them, especially knowing that Ralph wouldn't be able to refuse?
4. Did you notice that the protagonist and most of the main characters are women? Powerful, competent women? Did you like that? Did you think that was an intentional choice by the author or just the natural result of picking those best suited to do the job?
5. Do you view Pierce as more pathetic or tragic? Why?
6. Do you think it was odd that Sarah just walked away in the end? That she didn't want to receive the accolades or fame. What would you do?
7. Who was your favorite character and why?
8. Do you feel that The Last Hamilton is especially timely right now?

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