Printable Book Club Questions for The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark

The story features two timelines: one following Olivia in the present day, and the other focused on Poppy in 1975. Why was it important for us to read both perspectives?
What was your opinion overall on Olivia as a protagonist? Why did she hide her past from her boyfriend, Tom?
Let’s talk about Olivia’s decision to ghostwrite her estranged father’s book. What would you have done if you were in her situation?
She feels her father abandoned her, and has never forgiven him. Even when she learns he is suffering from dementia, Olivia doesn’t have much sympathy for him. What are your thoughts about her scenes with her dad as they talk about his past?
Up until this point, Olivia never considered that her father could have been the one to murder his siblings. When did she start to suspect that he might have been involved? Did you think Vincent was the murderer at any time during the story?
Let’s now talk more about Poppy. What was your impression of her sections? What stuck out to you the most about her?
Through Poppy’s diary, videotapes, and Olivia’s research, more is revealed. Danny, the other sibling, was not as innocent as he seemed, and Vincent certainly also had an angry side as well. What was your overall thoughts on the dysfunctional sibling dynamics?
We also learn more about Vincent and Lydia’s (Olivia’s mother) relationship. Why did Lydia leave behind Olivia and Vincent?
Eventually, the truth comes out, or at least most of it. OK, let’s first review all the reveals: The teacher Mr. Stewart, who was also their next door neighbor, was abusing students, including Danny. Then it was revealed that Danny sexually assaulted Lydia. Poppy found out the truth about both. Mr. Stewart killed Poppy, and Danny found her as she’s dying. But then Vincent comes in, and believes that Danny killed Poppy, and the two fight, which eventually knocks out Vincent. But when Vincent wakes up, Danny is dead. Lydia had come to the room, and saw Poppy was dead, and also thought Vincent was gone too. And she killed Danny. Vincent eventually wakes up, and realizes what happened (Lydia killed Danny) and vows to protect her. Whew. What were your overall thoughts as you read all these reveals?
First, Vincent had some doubts, he still thought Danny had killed Poppy. And it is a bit open-ended if the above is what really happened. Do you believe this is what happened? Or do you think there is more to the story?
Vincent eventually says that he sent Olivia away because she reminded him too much of Poppy, and it was painful. Do you feel this was a valid reasoning or do you believe it was just an excuse? What was your impression of Vincent when it’s all said and done?
Were you satisfied by the ending?
What happens next for Olivia?