The Soldier’s Daughter book club questions

In The Soldier’s Daughter by Fiona McIntosh, Violet Nash has grown up in the shadows of her father Charlie’s shattered dreams. It’s been years since he walked away from the battlefields of France as a WWI hero.

In search of a new beginning, they set sail for Tasmania to open a whisky distillery, and Violet shows a rare talent for the art of distilling and blending.

But some secrets cannot be forgotten, and with WWII raging on, Charlie feels a pull to once again play his part. Following him, Violet finds herself straight back in Champagne where open arms, future hopes and past ghosts lie waiting.

Discussion points and questions

1. ‘I’m tired of fighting, my love. I seem to have done it for a lifetime.’ In what ways has Charlie been fighting all his life?
2. Of his experience in the war, Charlie declares: ‘I count myself lucky to have survived with a healthy mind.’ In what ways does Violet perceive otherwise?
3. When Charlie and Violet arrive in Australia, do they find it to be ‘the land of opportunity’ that had been promised?
4. Do you understand and/or respect Charlie’s motivation for returning to Épernay?
5. ‘Give me time and love, her whisky replied . . . We could become very good friends.’ Are you a drinker of whisky? What makes it so special?
6. ‘War makes good people do bad things.’ Discuss in relation to this novel.
7. Do you agree with Violet’s mother, Ellen, that love is overwhelming? In what ways do we do this idea played out in The Soldier’s Daughter and its prequel, The Champagne War?
8. Violet wants to hate Raphael, but life has other ideas. What is it about him that attracts her? Do you think he’s a better match for her than John, and why?
9. The Soldier’s Daughter is full of dramatic moments. Which surprised you the most?
10. Where do you think Violet feels most at home – England, Scotland, Tasmania or France – and why?
11. Of Charlie’s many sacrifices, which was the greatest?
12. ‘Never be a sheep, Violet,’ Charlie had counselled. ‘You may not be popular, and you may unnerve others, but you will always be happier if you stay true to yourself.’ In what ways does Violet heed this advice? Does it lead to happiness?

Fiona McIntosh is on tour! Check out her upcoming events here.