1. Was Robert Kincaid clinically depressed at the beginning of the novel? If so, how had his state of mind changed toward the end of the story?

2. Robert Kincaid essentially lived a life alone, sacrificing family and relationships. Why do you think he chose this kind of existence? Was his choice a good one or a bad one?

3. When Kincaid returned to Roseman Bridge, he did not try to contact Francesca, but merely chose to "stand in her space again." Were his reasons for not looking her up admirable or cowardly? Realistic and honorable, or demonstrating denial and avoidance?

4. Given what we know about the states of mind of Francesca and Robert 16 years after their four-day affair, had their relationship truly been the "defining moment" for each--the "one great love" of a lifetime—or a simply a comfortable illusion/delusion?

5. What drove Robert Kincaid, on his return trip, to seek the woman he had earlier seen at the photography gallery in Mendocino?

6. How do you explain Carlisle McMillan's apparent maturity, self-possession, and goodness, given his atypical, fatherless upbringing?

7. Are people in their fifties, sixties and beyond capable of passion?

8. If Francesca had had her life to live over again, would she have gone with Robert in the earlier novel? If so, how would the lovers' lives have been different?

9. Who was the hero/heroine of this novel? Why?