1. The entire story unfolds through the two alternating perspectives of Samantha and Ben, each offering their own versions of the truth. Whose perspective do you find more credible, and why?
2. When she was 16, Samantha had a traumatic encounter with Hank while she was alone in her parents’ restaurant, leaving her internally scarred. How do you think this earlier trauma may have influenced the way she interpreted what happened with Ben on the night of August 13, 2013?
3. Samantha reported her sexual assault nearly 6 months after it occurred. Due to a lack of evidence, the police and prosecutor ultimately chose not to pursue charges against Ben. Do you believe the justice system failed Samantha in this situation? When a case rests on conflicting accounts, how should the criminal justice system balance the need to protect the rights and dignity of both the accuser and the accused, while still seeking the truth and ensuring that justice is served?
4. The role of social media and sensationalism plays a critical role in destroying Ben’s image and reputation. If you had a close friend who was accused of a horrible crime, and the media and court of public opinion had already dubbed this person as guilty, but your friend insisted he/she was innocent, would you stand by your friend?
5. Ben’s job offer as an associate with Fish & Richardson was revoked once “The Yale Rapist” went viral and his name became publicly linked with a violent crime, even though he was never formally charged. violent crime. Do you think his employer acted too quickly or unfairly in revoking his offer?
6. Social media and sensationalism play a major role in damaging Ben’s reputation. If someone close to you were accused of a serious crime, and the media and public had already labeled them as guilty, yet they maintained their innocence, would you continue to stand by them? Why or why not?
7. Although Rosa appears only briefly in Samantha’s life during law school, she plays a key role in intensifying Samantha’s unresolved desire for revenge. How might things have unfolded differently if Samantha had never met Rosa? Do you think she would have been able to let go of Ben and move on with her life?
8. Since every U.S. state requires a license to practice law, should a criminal record prevent someone from becoming a lawyer? Where should the line be drawn when it comes to the types or severity of crimes that should disqualify a person from practicing law?
9. After graduating from law school, Samantha finds herself facing challenges similar to those that Ben experienced while trying to obtain a law license. The tables had turned on Samantha. Do you believe the outcome Samantha faced was far? Why or why not?
10. Samantha meets DarkAngel13 online, and their conversations quickly turn toward extremely dark topics. How do you think the internet affects the way people communicate—especially when it comes to expressing thoughts and ideas they might not say face-to-face? If the two had met in person instead, do you think their conversation would have gone as far as it did?
11. Towards the end, Samantha finds herself running out of time and options. If Jade hadn’t stepped in and been in a position to help, what realistic paths would have been available to Samantha for resolving or escaping the lawsuit?
12. After years of education and significant financial investment, both Samantha and Ben ultimately find themselves unable to pursue professional careers in their fields. Do you believe this outcome is justifiable or fair, given their circumstances?
Jesse Palmer 