Introduction

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Excerpt

1

On the morning of her arrest, Edna Heustis awoke early and put her room in order. She occupied the smallest of Mrs. Turnbull’s furnished rooms, nothing more than an alcove under the eaves, with just enough space for a bed and a wash-stand. A row of iron hooks on the wall held the entirety of her wardrobe: two work uniforms, a Sunday dress, and a winter coat. The only decoration was a picture of a sailboat, furnished by Mrs. Turnbull, and for reading material her landlady had issued her a history of the Italian lakes, a guide to Egyptian art, and a general’s wife’s account of Army life on the western plains. Those sat on a hang-shelf, alongside an oil lamp?—?although Edna preferred to do her reading in the parlor, under the single electrical light offered for that purpose. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

1. How has the world changed and progressed from book to book in the Kopp Sisters series?

2. How do the sisters’ roles evolve throughout the series, and how are the roles becoming more defined?

3. This third book is written in the third person instead of from Constance’s point of view. Did you notice this change? Why do you think the author chose to do this? What does it allow that Constance’s point of view did not?

4. What do you think of the rapport between Sheriff Heath and Constance? How has their relationship changed since the first book?

5. In the newspaper interview, Constance explains the six requisites she believes are necessary for a detective, and says, “At midnight a woman will tell almost anything if she finds one who is sympathetic to tell it to.” This is also included in the book’s epigraph. In what ways are “help” and “sympathy” important themes in Constance’s life and in this book?

6. In the book, parents ask the police to arrest daughters for lack of morals and for
waywardness—things as simple as staying out late, dating, or taking jobs. Before Constance takes on more responsibility, there is little or no defense available for these women. Were you surprised to learn about this part of our history? The Mann Act still exists, but its meaning and use have changed. What does its new use say about how our society has changed or stayed the same since the early 1900s?

7. Even though Constance supports and defends women like Edna who are in jail for leaving home, Constance expresses concern when Fleurette goes off on her own adventure. Constance even follows her and asks others to check on her too. How is Constance similar to the parents who turn in their daughters? How is she different?

8. Norma is protective of her family. She initiates spying on Fleurette, handles all of Constance’s fan mail, and takes care of the farmhouse. Does she enjoy her role? Do you think that role might change?

9. Even though Constance and May have very different personalities and jobs, they are both in strong positions for women at the time. How does being a woman affect their lives and their positions? Do they have to act differently than men in the same positions? If so, in what ways?

10. Why does Fleurette lie about her experience on the show? What is she feeling at the end about her homecoming?

Weblinks

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»	Miss Kopp's Midnight Confessions Recipe

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