1. Julianne Morgen arrives in Cornwall obviously a little bit naive about the English culture and modern-day lords and ladies, although she tries quickly to adapt. How many misconceptions do you think Americans have about the different cultures in the U.K. and Ireland? How many are as laughable as Julianne's mental picture of Lord William — or as embarrassing as her confrontation with Matt, for instance?
2. Julianne is quick to argue with Matthew, and quick to feel mortified over her mistakes; but Matt's forgiveness proves he's not quite the gruff figure Pippa and Gemma hinted at before. Do you think Julianne's manner of accepting his apology is more about her guilt, or her initial attraction to him?
3. The author describes the cliffs as 'almost like a character itself' in the story, and it is established early in the series as a special spot for Julianne and Matthew. What scene do you think best characterizes this role for the seaside view?
4. Julianne has never handled an event this important before taking on Petal and Donald's wedding. What scene best defines Julianne stepping up to her new responsibilities?
5. Matthew's looks obviously conjure images of the famous literary and television character Poldark for both Gemma and Pippa — but not for Julianne, who's never read the books or seen the television series. Nevertheless, is her first glimpse of Matt still very much a 'Poldark' encounter, even without that knowledge?
6. When Matt tells Julianne what he likes most about her, he's both teasing and serious. Which emotion do you think is stronger in those words as he describes their first meeting?
A Christmas in Cornwall
1. Julianne is somewhat dubious about the manor staff's Christmas dinner plans. How many English holiday traditions do you think Americans find weird — and how many traditions do you think are alike between the two countries today?
2. Why do you think Julianne and Matt have such a difficult time putting their feelings for each other into words? What is it about that precipice moment in a new relationship that makes those feelings both exciting and frightening — especially in your first serious one?
3. Julianne hesitates to help Dwight's friends, but her sympathy gets the best of her in the end. What red flags should have tipped off Julianne early that this situation wasn't everything it appeared to be? Do you think Julianne ignored them because she felt guilty about possibly misjudging him — or was she simply trying to hurry the experience to keep Matt in the dark?
4. How do you feel about Matt's decision regarding the Ivy League position? Do you think Julianne's response to his dilemma was the right one? Or do you think she should have told him the full truth from the beginning?
5. What did you think of Matt's gift to Julianne?
A Cottage in Cornwall
1. Julianne and Matt's silly argument has driven a rift between them. When her emails go unanswered, Julianne's pride tells her their relationship has reached an impasse. How often do you think silly arguments make or break a relationship — and do you think Matt is more in the wrong, or Julianne?
2. Do you think Julianne's decision to rent Rosemoor is about her lingering feelings for Matt only? Or are her feelings for the cottage about more than just her relationship, but about Julianne's attachment to Cornwall itself?
3. When Matthew and Julianne re-meet, their encounter is awkward, to say the least. Should it have been different? How would you have imagined the scene playing out between them?
4. Matt's revelation to Julianne leaves her speechless for a few seconds...then leads her to a bold response. Is Julianne's instinctive emotional response the right one? Do you think Matt was hoping all along she would feel this way?
5. Even Constance's stoic nature can't help but melt a little as she tells the romantic story of her fiance's proposal. Share your responses to Constance's somewhat unique love story.
6. Constance's words to Julianne and Matt at the art gallery have a bittersweet meaning for Julianne, and play a part in her major decision. What was your reaction to Constance's words on life and love? Do you think Julianne's perspective is the right one, given the future she and Matt may possibly be facing?
7. What do you think of Constance's gift to Julianne? How do you think she knew about the special connection Julianne feels towards the cliffs?
A Manor in Cornwall:
1. Things have changed for Julianne and Matt, now that they're married and sharing a home. Do you think this has changed Julianne's character in any way? Is it less 'romantic' for their relationship to be sealed with a promise ... or does this feel like the beginning of new possibilities for their love — and the love lives of those around them?
2. Pippa's leaving will change things at Cliffs House, and it's noticeable that Gemma is already growing up a little in the face of her extra responsibilities. How do you feel about the possibility of changing faces at Cliffs House?
3. As always, Matt steps in to help Julianne when she most needs it, both when the concert is in jeopardy, and when she needs to share her frustrations. Discuss how you feel Matt's gestures of love are different now than before.
4. Faced with too much work and not enough time, Julianne explores the possibility of having an assistant for this event. Why do you think she chose Kitty out of all the possible candidates?
5. Kitty's past is something of a mystery to Julianne, but the pieces that emerge are surprising and sometimes a little questionable. Do you think Kitty's bristly personality is genuine, or she hiding something? Do you think she deserves the second chance Julianne is offering?
6. The concert is part of the changes, big and small, that Ceffylgwyn is facing. What do you think about the possibilities that await the village and Cliffs House itself? Which side do you choose in the characters' debate over the future?
A Bake Off in Cornwall:
1. Surprises abound in Book Five as
the international passion for British baking shows sweeps through Cornwall, and
even telly-ignorant Julianne has the fever. What do you think inspired the
passion for baking — and British baking, especially — on both sides of the
Pond? What do you think a Cornish-themed baking show would be like in real
life?
2. Do you think being an experienced
chef would give Dinah an unfair advantage? Or do you think that she would feel
more pressure, knowing that someone like local bakery legend Leeman has devoted
their life to cakes and biscuits?
3. After the first glimpse of the
judges, what do you imagine their rapport would be like on the baking show?
Which one do you imagine is the tougher judge?
4.When Julianne rallies everyone to
Dinah's rescue for the second challenge, they manage to pull it off ... but
just barely! Where do you think that puts Dinah mentally, as the third
challenge looms?
5. Kitty's obviously conflicted about
Nathan's increased presence at the manor house. Do you think Kitty and Nathan's
resistance to admitting their physical attraction is putting more tension
between them, or helping draw them together? Why does she push Nathan away at
the theater?
6.Do you think Dinah's crisis in
confidence is about more than merely a few bad bakes? What about the suggestion
that Dinah's sudden inspiration to enter the contest has a connection to her
old dream of a bakery...one which would mean leaving Cliffs House, for example?
7. Julianne feels that becoming a good
baker will help her better fit in with Matt's culture. Share your thoughts on the idea of baking — or
cooking — as a means of better understanding another culture.
8. Pierre views baking as another form
of romance — and Harriet's 'secret ingredient' suggests that cooking is another
language, too. Think of some examples of how cooking transcends food to be an
expression of something deeper, in any culture. Is Julianne right and the two
judges' views and actions on the subject of food are conveying more than just a
culinary rivalry?
9. Julianne suggests that love is the
true secret ingredient in Dinah's final bake. Have you ever had a secret
ingredient that makes a dish extra special? What do you imagine the best
'secret ingredient' is in a recipe?
A Castle in Cornwall:
1. Julianne opens Book Six with a
stunning revelation. Do you think she's right to choose her friend over the
life she loves? What do you think of Matt's response when they talk about her
decision?
2. Lady Amanda asks Julianne to help
her with a most unusual royal wedding ... one involving a very zany cast of
characters ... which must involve perfect secrecy on the part of everybody
involved. What do you think of Lady Helen's decisions? How do you picture
Josephine, given the story Lady Amanda and Marjorie tell about her past?
3. Julianne describes the bride to be
as a 'newly-minted adult.' Given Josephine's age versus her education and her
upbringing, how ready do you think she is for this big decision? Do you think
her age or her life's experiences are the reasons for her unusual behavior
towards her wedding plans?
4. Kitty and Nathan are obviously
hiding deeper feelings about their not-so-open relationship, which means not
crossing personal barriers in each others' lives. So what do you think is the
reason for Nathan's sudden decision to join the community players? Why do you
think Kitty has such a complex reaction to the idea of him being part of them?
5. Julianne makes a crazy decision
when Josephine runs away, and, of course, ends up becoming confident to a very
big secret. What do you think of Josephine's fixation on her secret admirer? Do
you think Julianne is overreacting with her advice, or is she right?
6. Kitty isn't thrilled when Nathan
suggests meeting her family, but feels guilty about it afterwards. Do you think
Nathan shouldn't be surprised, given Kitty's feelings about her past and her
family? Is his decision inspired by his feelings for Kitty — or the jealousy
her ex inspires in him?
7. Josephine gives up her secret
admirer just in time for a tender reunion with Kristofer ... but there's one
last problem for Julianne to face in order to help the bride to be find a happy
future. Do you agree that Julianne's reluctant agreement seems worthwhile when
she discovers the true secret admirer?
8. At the farewell party, Kitty and
Nathan break up, and the impromptu arrival of Charlotte's special surprise keeps
them from making up. Do you think Kitty misinterpreted Nathan's ultimatum? What
do you think Nathan's reaction to his offer in London really means?
9. The original Cliffs House staff is
reunited in the kitchen one more time, and Julianne can't help but remember
everything that has happened in that room since her arrival. Throughout the
story, references to past events in the series abound. What's your favorite
memory from a previous story? Which special guest character has been your
favorite?
10. As Julianne prepares to leave, she
promises her beloved cliffs she'll be back very soon. It seems appropriate that
this book both begins — and ends — with Julianne standing in her favorite spot.
What do you think of the cliffs as a metaphor for all of Julianne's important
experiences in Cornwall? Do you think the next book will find her returning to
them?
A Romance in Cornwall:
1. Julianne is happy to be home, but
remarks at one point how things can't be quite the same as before. Discuss ways
that moving changes things for both the people who leave and the people who are
left behind — do you think it would be hard to adjust to a quiet village once
more after living in a city like Seattle?
2. Even though Julianne claims she
doesn't read a lot of romance novels, she still instantly recognizes Rowena St.
James's name, and has an evident soft spot for the author's most famous novel. Are
there some romantic stories — and writers — who transcend genres to appeal to
everyone? What quintessential stories can you think of?
3. Rowena believes she'll find her
story in Ceffylgwyn, even after two years of searching for the right one. Do
you think she's pushing herself to find the story here, more than feeling
inspired by the village itself?
4. In a comic twist, Julianne is
excited that her own love story with Matt could become the inspiration for the
romance novel in progress. What do you think of the running joke about a writer
crafting a story from their 'real life' oh-so-perfect meeting on the cliffs?
How many of life's real love stories or unique happily-ever-afters do you think
become the inspiration for romance novels?
5. At one point, Rowena describes
herself as having a formula for writing her stories, with key elements that
have to appear in every book in order to make it one of her 'signature'
audience-pleasing novels. What kind of obstacles do you think romance writers
face when it comes to pleasing readers?
6. Gemma's encounter with Rowena leads
her to confess a secret dream of writing her own romance novel. How many people
do you know who dream of writing a certain book or a certain genre of books?
Have you ever considered writing your own version of a story, even just for
fun? Do you think that the modern era of indie publishing and fan fiction
websites have changed writers' — and readers' — perception of the craft?
7. Rowena finds the solution to her
writer's block by telling stories in a different world — that of an adorable
Cornish dog in a children's novel. What do you think of writers who cross to
one genre from another — real-life examples being children's author turned
bestselling fantasy novelist Gregory Maguire, and J.K. Rowling's leap from
young adult to mysteries?
A Star in Cornwall:
A Star in Cornwall:
1. Julianne reluctantly agrees to direct a very 'Shakespeare in the Park' version of Romeo and Juliet after Millie's accident. What do you think about the popular 'modern' adaptations of Shakespeare's work? Do you think it adds to or detracts from the value of the original play? Do you think the Cliff's Edge Players are going a little too far (and being a little unrealistic) with their expectations for a modern American version?
2. When Riley shows up, Julianne finds him immediately likeable, yet she doesn't trust him after the incident at the pub. Do you think it's unfair of her to assume that Riley is the one who stole her wallet? How many times have you struggled to reconcile what you know (or think you know) about a real person versus the persona everyone else sees?
3. Matt teases Julianne about Riley's good looks attracting her — Julianne enjoys the teasing a little, and herself admits to indulging in a romantic fantasy in which a jealous Matt duels with a rival who suspiciously resembles Riley. How is this different from Julianne's attitude in previous books? Have certain changes — growing slightly older, settling down in marriage — changed the way she perceives her relationship with Matt?
4. Riley claims his talent is a matter of 'luck,' citing multiple incidents in his past where he quickly learned to fill whatever job was available at the time. Do you also see Riley's illustrations as having a double meaning — and believe, as Julianne does, that Riley assumes identities to fill whatever 'life role' is necessary to him for the moment?
5. Like Matt and Julianne, Kate and Riley's attraction is one of sparks between ordinary friendship. Because their relationship is casual (and very likely temporary) should Julianne be so protective of her assistant's feelings at this point?
6. Do you think Riley had any justification for deceiving the village — and his friends — the way he did? Do you think his friends are right to be angry at him for keeping his real circumstances secret? Or are they overreacting to the truth?
7. Julianne thinks that friendship is the beginning of all good romances. Do you agree with her? Is that an accurate description of her relationship with Matt, given the romantic feelings she harbored almost from the beginning?
A Sewing Circle in Cornwall:
1. Julianne begins the story by volunteering to help the local sewing circle with the special quilts for their village fete stall, and by helping Lady Amanda and the committee organize the affair on the grounds as well. Even before conflicts begin, do you think Julianne's character has a habit of overextending herself when it comes to her work and to village events?
2. Matt criticizes Julianne for leaping into the middle of a conflict, and their argument quickly grows to a full-blown criticism of each others' differences and annoying qualities. Despite admitting the argument is childish, Julianne can't seem to stop herself from making catty remarks, even though she feels guilty for doing it. Have you ever had the same problem in arguments with someone you love — an inability to let go of an issue, even when you're sorry that it was ever spoken about?
3. What do you think of Petal's life circumstances? Are you surprised? Do you think Julianne has any reason to be uncomfortable that Matt's ex is staying in the village?
4. As Julianne spends time apart from Matt, she feels as if her life begins to fall apart, especially when she joins Matt and Petal for dinner. What do you think is the real cause of Julianne's crisis of self? Is it perfect Petal, or the pressure she puts on herself? Is it growing self-doubt now that she is no longer the confident, starry-eyed young girl who came to the village a few years ago?
5. Judging from Petal's words and body language, do you think she truly intends for Matt to notice her? Is she merely wistful about the past with him, or is she wishing there could be a future, now that her marriage has failed? Is Julianne's perception of Petal and Matt's chemistry colored entirely by own problems?
6. Do you think Julianne is wrong not to accept Matt's apology? When she says they can't go back to burying these feelings deep inside, do you think she has a point, or is she being unrealistic? Why would she be concerned about Matt always being the one who apologizes quickly to put the issues behind them?
7. When they share dinner alone, Julianne and Matt are both honest with each other about certain feelings they have now, without diving into the ones behind the argument they shared so recently. Has this helped them find their point of reconciliation more effectively than either further discussion or quick apologies? Is honesty — especially positive honesty — a good answer to disagreements in relationships?
8. Pippa helps Julianne by teaching her that the best means of creating a work of art is to begin with what you love. Do you think the quilt's theme — and its subsequent completion — is a metaphor of Juli's deeper feelings for her life in Cornwall, and, therefore, her life with Matthew? Is it a fitting beginning for their makeup conversation and kiss?
A Talent Show in Cornwall:
1. In the wake of a busy autumn, Julianne finds herself feeling sluggish and slightly blue in the face of everyday life. Over the course of the books, how many changes do you see between the Julianne who first arrived in Cornwall and fell in love with Matthew, and the Julianne of the second half of the series?
2. Thanks to Gemma's friend's flyer, the village talent show is born. Is this impulse a ridiculous one, given their disorganization at the beginning of the process? Do you think Julianne calls Kitty because she's finally decided that rescuing the impossible is no longer her responsibility in life ... or is she still unable to say 'no' to any cause?
3. Was Kitty being selfish by not telling Bets and the rest of her family about Nathan's proposal, even though the consequences would be difficult? How much of her relationship with Nathan does she have a right to keep private, since the two of them have been engaged for a year?
4. Do you see Michael and Gemma as a possible romantic couple? Or are their personalities too different to make it last?
5. Despite her seeming acceptance that her body and mind will gradually shift and change with age, are Julianne's attempts to combat it suddenly — with vitamins and healthy lunches — part of a 'quarter life crisis,' maybe? Is this why she briefly considers — and shuts down — the possibility of deeper health issues while researching on the web?
6. How much do you feel Gemma has changed since the series began? From being a starstruck maid to the steady girlfriend of a local boy, to an aspiring novelist with a crisis of confidence — do you agree with Julianne that Gemma has truly 'grown up' as a character?
7. Were you surprised by the news Julianne delivers to Matt? Do you think the storybook was a good way to break the truth to him, given the 'running joke' between them on this subject?
An American in Cornwall:
1. Julianne is reunited with her best friend Aimee, who is temporarily living in Cornwall as a favor to a fellow businesswoman. The two of them have a habit of finishing each other's sentences and bantering the way two people do when they know what the other person will say — is there a different chemistry between the two of them than with Julianne's other friends, even good ones like Gemma or Rosie? What aspects of Julianne's personality do you think Aimee brings out by comparison?
2. Right away, we're wisked to a quirky village full of new landmarks and new faces — including the seemingly-disingenuous businessman Donny with his proposition to put Saint Petroc's high street out of business. What do you think of his plan? Is it unfair of Aimee to leap to the conclusion that it will destroy the high street's profits, or do you think it's really a deliberate attempt to create unfair competition?
3. Julianne describes Aimee as the one who influenced her to be brave and take chances. Do you think Aimee's fierce determination to rescue someone else's business is irrational? How much of this extreme stubbornness do you see reflected in Julianne's character, to a different degree?
4. Aimee is definitely coy about some aspects of her long holiday, as Julianne soon learns, thanks to the outrageous party girl Teagen. Was Julianne only curious, or do you think she's slightly hurt to learn that Aimee is keeping some things secret, including a possible romantic crush? Is there a reason why she might not tell her best friend everything?
5. Matt is supportive of Julianne's attempts to help her friends and the village, offering advice and physical assistance. Aimee comments multiple times on Matt's role in Julianne's life and confidence, although she states she is neither jealous nor envious of their relationship. Does she point this out because she does sense a difference in their friendship, now that Julianne has a person in her life who is entitled to share almost every part of it? How do you feel that close romantic relationships change other relationships in life — including those of best friends?
6. Aimee's efforts to encourage the village and surrounding residents to ally themselves against Donny's plan has an impact on his shopping center's plans. Do you think in most cases it's unrealistic for small communities to find a way to protect their uniqueness from a growing homogenized global culture? Do you think a small victory like this is only temporary, or can it be the beginning of a new perception of community pride and culture?
A Garden in Cornwall:
1. Matt tells Julianne about his hopes of working in Penwill Hall's 'lost garden' and immediately her thoughts fly to the Frances Hodgson Burnett classic. Is there a romantic story from your childhood that still resonates with you today? What story first influenced your idea of the 'perfect' novel?
2. Once again, Julianne's love of designer high heels becomes a conflict — how realistic do you think her plan is to wear them throughout her pregnancy? Do you think this is her way of resisting certain changes to her body and her life that a baby may possibly bring?
3. How do you feel about Matt's attempts to become a full-time landscape architect and garden consultant? Do you think it's a waste of his gifts and his experience, given his former passion for teaching? Or do you think that Julianne is right, and his true calling is really working to create beauty with plants?
4. The letter from Mathilda shocks Julianne and Matt with its announcement about their home. Is Julianne being unrealistic and unfair by refusing to readily accept that they can't remain at Rosemoor? Have you ever experiences similar circumstances — clinging to a place, a person, a job, or even a life that you simply couldn't keep?
5. Lady Amanda has made the decision to hire housekeeper Mrs. Norbit to help run the house. As comparisons to Mrs. Danvers and human adroids fly among the Cliffs House staff for the somewhat-terrifying housekeeper, how much potential for surprise do you see in her character at this point?
7. What do you think of 'Old Bill' the gardener? He curtly dismisses Julianne the first time, yet he tells her more about his life when she returns. How much of his reclusivity is his choice, and how much of it do you think is simply life's circumstances?
8. After Matt tells her the reasons why he needs to resolve this issue, is Julianne wrong for asking Matt for more time at Rosemoor without searching for a new home?
9. Why do you think 'Old Bill' prefers to keep his past to himself? Is it selfish of him, or is it his only way to protect himself from memories of old regrets and disappointments? In light of his actions afterwards, do you think Julianne will take her advice to him to heart for her own problem with things she loves becoming part of the past?
10. How do you feel about Matt's sacrifice? Do you think he's going too far, taking a page from Julianne's book by not asking before he acts? In light of their conversation and the truths they both realize about each other and their life together, do you think Julianne should accept it, or turn him down?