The Intrigue | Silvia Moreno-Garcia

The Intrigue follows three main characters. Which character did you find yourself sympathizing with the most? The least?

The Intrigue draws on a subgenre known as noir. What experience do you have with this genre? If you’ve read noirs or watched noir films before, what would you identify as some of The Intrigue’s influences? If you haven’t, what do you think some of the defining characteristics of the genre might be?

While The Intrigue is a noir, which draws on themes of relationships and sexuality, there is a romantic plotline running through the book. How did you feel about Ulises and Inés’s relationship?

Noirs often focus on anti-heroes—in this book, Ulises is a con artist. How did you feel about his plot to ensnare Perla? In what ways did the author draw you to sympathize—or not—with a character who has such a nefarious plan?

Inés longs for a life very different from the one that she leads. In what ways do you think her dream does or does not come true?

How did the setting of Veracruz and the various denizens of the town and boardinghouse contribute to the novel’s atmosphere?

The Intrigue has an intricate plot with a number of twists. What plot twists did you not see coming? What were some of the most shocking or surprising moments?

What did you think of the ending? What surprised you? Would you characterize it as a happy or bittersweet ending?

Silvia Moreno-Garcia writes in multiple genres. Have you read any of her other books? If so, what common themes or ideas do you see running through her work?

If you had a chance to ask the author one question about the book or her creation of it, what would your question be?