Read

Spotlight: James Meek's The Heart Broke In

Shortlisted for the Costa Award, this is a compelling novel about sex, blackmail, family, money and death for the dot com generation. It's perfect for reading groups, so check out the questions below.

1. James Meek has said that The Heart Broke In is structured around three moral acts. An act of heroism by Bec and Ritchie’s father, an act of treachery by Ritchie, and an act by Bec which is both heroic and treacherous. How do you think each of these characters interprets the others’ actions, and how does that affect the plot?

2. To what or whom do you think the title refers?

3. The idea of moving from one generation to the other is central to the book, and inheritance and legacy are key concerns for the characters. Why are these ideas of such interest to our largely post-Christian society?

4. The characters in the book have varying levels of moral conscience, but for each it tends to come from the needs of other people. Would you say that it is fear of exposure that gives a person their conscience?

5. Ritchie is one of the more corrupt and despicable characters in the book, yet in some ways he is the happiest. Why do you think this is?

6. Is Bec’s act one of heroism, sacrifice or treachery?

7. Do Alex and Bec get a happy ending?

Get 40% off the book when you join our bookclub. Check out the link below for more details.