1. At the beginning of the story, we see three different men: Pierce, a white man; Gray Eagle, an Indian; and Preach, a black man. Do you think it is their faith in God that unites them even more than the fact that the war is over? Does the war being over make close friendships for them possible now?
2. After their parents are gone, Beth and Joanie decide to strike out on their own, taking a very vulnerable friend along with them. What do you think of their decision to do that? Was it brave or foolish or both?
3. Sadly, the women on Walt’s plantation were not treated well. Fortunately, God led the soldiers to the ladies just in time. How does a good man change Beth’s view of men in general? Did Gray Eagle and Preach have the same effect on Joanie and Trella?
4. The kindness of the Cherokees made a huge difference in these women’s lives. Even in light of the fire, they showed Beth mercy. What about the nuns? How did they make a difference for Beth and Joanie?
5. How does greed play into Walt’s decisions to chase his nieces without mercy? What consequences do he and his son suffer because of their bad decisions?
6. When Walt and Bear show up drunk at the Indian camp, did you think Pierce’s actions were justified? Did he go too far or not far enough in trying to teach those Jornigan men a lesson? Do you think Pierce, Gray Eagle, and Preach should have handled the situation with Walt and Bear differently? Dealt with it more decisively sooner? What would you have done?
7. Beth begins a personal search for understanding about prayer. What did you think of the different ways to talk to God discussed in the story? Were all acceptable to you? If not, why not?
8. These three couples were blessed to find true love and hope for their futures during the course of their adventures. What do you think of the idea of waiting on God for the things you long for?
9. Reverend Mother asks her new friends to form a community that is all about sanctuary for troubled souls. Is there a way you can be a refuge for anyone in your world today?
10. 1 Corinthians 2:9 tells us “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (KJV). Which character in this book saw these words most poignantly fulfilled in his or her life?