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THROUGH THE VENEER OF TIME
READERS GUIDE

Through the Veneer of Time

  1. Can you name any emerging parallels between the myth of Niamh and Oisín and the story of Neave and Aedan?

  2. In what ways does Siena and Ryan’s relationship differ from Neave and Aedan’s? In what ways does it remain the same?

  3.  Throughout the story, Siena is confronted with numerous telltale signs: a recurring vortex dream, rape phobia, a winged shadow, past life visions, déjà vu with Ryan, terror of Worgen, the psychic’s appeal to the old Irish gods. Why does she choose to ignore them?

  4.  How does the modern woman, Siena, compare to the medieval noblewoman, Neave? Does she possess the same strengths and weaknesses?

  5.  In what ways are the FBI agent, Ryan and the medieval chieftain, Aedan, similar? In what ways are they different?

  6.  Has the ruthless mercenary, Würger, been given a new lease on life? If so, by whom? Do you think Worgen could have avoided becoming a serial killer? If so, how?

  7.  What role does the waiting-woman, Aine, play in Neave’s life? Was her death necessary for Neave’s growth? Why or why not? How does it manifest in Siena and Emma’s friendship?

  8.  In the modern world, Neave’s sister, Isibeal, would be tried for kidnapping and attempted murder. Do you think Siena’s “friend,” Lindsey, is capable of similar atrocities?

  9.  Why does Neave struggle with revealing her pregnancy to Aedan when she had little trouble telling him about her sexual assault and torture?

  10.  In what ways is Aedan also a victim of the attack on Neave? Was “banishing the ghost” therapeutic for him as well? Why or why not?

  11.  How does Neave’s decision to keep her baby, as well as its consequences, resonate with modern-day women? Was her love for her newborn son a surprise for you?

  12.  Does goddess Mórrígan visit Neave in her near-death state, or is she a figment of her imagination? Does it matter? Why or why not?

  13.  When goddess Brigid comes to Neave in her sleep, she says, “The flame still burns. Tend to it.” Are there multiple connotations in this advice? What are they?

  14.  Facing fear is a central theme in both Siena and Neave’s lives. How does Neave face her fear to conquer it? How does Siena?

  15.  If taken out of context, some of what Worgen says to Siena could be construed as positive, e.g. “a spirited warrior,” “I’ve come to care for you,” “I love you.” In what ways is Würger an antithesis to Aedan? In what ways is Worgen an antithesis to Ryan?

  16.  At which point does Siena recognize her strength? How does summoning Mórrígan help her throughout her journey?

  17.  Why doesn’t Siena inflict further physical harm on Worgen when given a chance? Aside from legal consequences, why doesn’t Ryan kill him when he has been wanting to do it for centuries?

  18.  How does Christianity play a part in the story? How does Celtic paganism? Are there any parallels between the two?

  19.  The moon is a minor character in the novel. What role does it play in Neave and Siena’s story?

  20.  Two of the chapters are named “The Last Word.” In the first, Neave has her last word in restoring her relationship with Aedan. In the second, Siena has her last word with Worgen. How does one necessitate the other?

  21.  Neave takes a vow to “win the battle.” But is there more than one battle? Does she win them all? Can she win them alone?

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