The Best Man

Harper has reached a new pinnacle in his life. No longer the debut author from decades ago, he’s now a Pulitzer Prize winner with multiple bestsellers and another movie to come. Yet he seems unsettled with life as it is. Why? What seems to be missing? What do you think of his lifestyle? For example, would you date him? Or set him up with a friend?

From creative ruts to writer’s block, Harper is not having the easiest time writing this next film. Why does Harper feel such pressure to get this movie right?

We see another side of Jordan. She is in therapy, has moved away from her friends—from Harper—and is in a new era. How has she changed, and what longings remain? Do you relate to her lifestyle choices? Why or why not?

Robyn has often been the nurturer and supporter of everyone else’s dreams. How has she finally turned that care and attention to herself with her new life in Ghana? Did you agree with her decision to move? Did your view change at any point in reading the book?

In chapter eight, when speaking with Robyn, Harper exhibits some conflicting emotions regarding who Robyn might be dating, and it continues throughout the novel. Where do you think this comes from and why?

In chapter eleven, Dr. Clark states: “People want to be chosen. He did choose you, Jordan. And, you said no.” Why did Robyn say no back then, and what makes now a better time for both her and Harper? What do you think about the current state of their relationship?

In chapter fourteen, Kweisi reveals that he is separated from his wife, but not divorced. Robyn has a hard time with this revelation. What does Robyn seem torn between in this moment? How would you have reacted?

It has finally happened: In chapter eighteen, Jordan and Harper come together as fans have always expected they would. How has Jordan pushed herself beyond her norm to finally get the man she’s always wanted? What are your thoughts about this moment?

“It’s been fifteen days and thirty years. . . . Jordan didn’t want this feeling to end, ever.” Discuss the new rhythm that Harper and Jordan fall into once they finally lean into their romantic love for one another. How do they both reveal new aspects of each other in this intimate space?

Jordan and Harper have their moment in the sun, but it breaks as quickly as it is set aflame. Did Harper leave too hastily? What is unspoken in Jordan’s response?

What role does the crew—Lance, Candace, Murch, Quentin, Shelby—play in Jordan’s, Harper’s, and Robyn’s lives?

Mia believes that her mother may be in danger due to the constant appearance of Aboagye and tells her father. Should Harper have spoken to Robyn before traveling to Ghana? And what is at the root of Mia’s cry out for her dad?

Murch tells Harper not to let Robyn find out about him and Jordan from anyone else besides himself. Yet that is exactly what happens. Why is this such a big moment for them both? Is Robyn’s reaction warranted?

Even though Harper’s heart is in the right place, did he overstep when coming into an agreement with Aboagye about Robyn’s restaurant? Why is Robyn against accepting help? What would you do if you were in her shoes?

How does the mention of Solomon affect Harper? Should Robyn have spoken to Harper before telling Mia about Solomon? Did learning of Solomon change your thoughts about Robyn and Harper’s relationship?

In chapter forty-five, Harper and Robyn reconnect in a different way. “Failure was not an option. Not tonight. Not ever again . . . ,” Harper thinks to himself. What all might Harper be referring to? Is he having a change of heart?

Jordan tries to power ahead, even meeting with Brian and taking a new job in Chicago. Is she fighting against her true desires or managing the hand she’s been dealt?

When Harper finally comes to Jordan once again, do you think it might be too late?

“Every time you have the opportunity to choose yourself over doing the right thing, you always choose yourself.” These words from Murch often haunt Harper. By the novel’s end, has Harper finally chosen and prioritized someone other than himself?

What do you think will happen next, regarding Robyn’s surprise ending?