- Carey is the assistant who does everything for her boss Melissa. What were your initial thoughts of Carey?
- Melissa and Rusty Tripp are very much modeled after the real-life HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines at least as far as success goes. But what about with the personalities—did you see any similarities between the fictional couple and the real-life one? Are you a fan of their show?
- Carey and James seem adversarial at the beginning. What do you think was the driving force for them to start to develop feelings for each other? Did you like their relationship?
- We learn that Carey started to work for Melissa and Rusty when she was 16 and has been a huge part of their success, even being the one behind many designs and creations. There’s a lot to unravel there so let’s first talk about why Carey stayed so committed to this couple?
- There’s a couple lines where Carey even remarks they are pretty much like parents to her. Did you get that dynamic when you were reading the book?
- Do you believe that Melissa was an abusive boss to Carey? What do you think Carey should have done prior to the fire—should she have quit, gone to the press about the truth behind her work, etc.?
- Carey says that Melissa and Rusty used to be very much in love. What do you think happened to their relationship? Who do you think is more to blame for the demise or is it shared equally?
- Why do you think James decided not to tell Carey about his promotion opportunity? Do you think he should have fought more for Carey to get recognized and promoted as well?
- A huge argument and fire brings everything down. Why do think it forced Melissa and Rusty to step away from their business? Will they stay together and do you think they’ll eventually find another show?
- What happens next for Carey? Do you think her and James are in it for the long haul?
The Honey-Don’t List by Christina Lauren
More discussion at bookclubchat.com. These questions contain major spoilers.