1. Tyesha and her sister have a contentious relationship. What are some of the factors that have pitted them against each other? Do you have female peers in your life with whom there is significant conflict? What might be factors outside of the relationship that contribute to the conflict?
2. Tyesha had to step in repeatedly to rescue her nieces, Deza and Amaru, when their parents were unable to function in a healthy way. Was that a good choice for her? For them? Do you have people in your life who call you to come rescue them? How do you handle that?
3. Thug Woofer is the number one rap artist in the U.S. How does that impact the relationship dynamic between him and Tyesha?
4. What were some of the warning signs that Thug Woofer had difficulty respecting women? What were some of the positive signposts that he had changed? Is that type of change realistic? What are some of the risks when a woman trusts a man with a history of anger issues?
5. In the book, the mob was a major obstacle to allowing the strippers to unionize. In the real world, however, the owners and managers of strip clubs often mistreat the workers, even if organized crime is not involved. Are there ways that you or other workers are mistreated in your industry or workplace? What can you do about it?
6. The dancers in the union were divided. Some favored greater security and protection, but some favored greater independence. As a worker, do you favor more security and protection or independence? Can you have both?
7. The sex industry is the only industry in which women workers are consistently paid more than men. And yet there are many men who mistreat their workers in an attempt to make as much money off their labor as possible. How do you see women workers being mistreated in your workplace, industry, or doing domestic labor (housework/childcare)?
8. The mob boss’s nephew was a sexual predator. He had a history of paying hush money to women he’d assaulted, and we saw him attempt to assault Jody. Was it justified to frame him for the robbery, even if it got him killed?
9. Car Willis is an artist who has a history of sexually predatory behavior, as well. In the real world, should artists be judged by their behavior offstage, or simply based on their art?
10. Tyesha is afraid to speak up publicly. Where does this fear come from? Were her fears justified in the present or based in experiences from the past? What are some areas in your own life where you are afraid to speak? Do you think your fears are about present danger or rooted in the past? What can you do about it?