The Women on Platform Two

1. In the opening chapter, engaged couple Saoirse and Miles argue about their future; Miles can't wait to be a father, but Saoirse is reluctant to become a mother. Do you think family planning is something couples should discuss as soon as they start dating, or is it better to wait until the relationship is stable and serious?

2. In Chapter 3, Maura overhears colleagues discussing her friend Ger and realizes they are referring to her with a word beginning with an "L." Considering that homosexuality was illegal in Ireland at the time, how do you think this moment affects Maura? How would you describe the evolution of her perspective and open-mindedness?

3. When Maura returns late after her first date with Christy, her father's anger dissolves once she says, "He's a doctor, Da." Do you think Mr. Flynn is socially biased? Do you see similar attitudes reflected in parents today?

4. In Chapter 16, Maura tells Saoirse, "The women of Ireland fought hard for choice. But no one ever said choosing would be easy." How have women's reproductive choices changed over time where you live?

5. When Maura marries Christy in 1969, she is forced to give up the job she loves. How did this moment make you feel, and what does it say about women's roles at the time?

6. When Maura and Bernie first meet, which woman do you think is happier, and why?

7. Maura and Bernie remain friends for life. What is your longest friendship, and what has allowed it to endure?

8. Do you think Dan McCarthy is a unique male character in the novel? Do you believe most men of the era benefited from their dominant position, or did some want greater equality?

9. In Chapter 25, Mrs. Stitch is revealed to be running a secret and dangerous operation. How does your opinion of her change over the course of the book?

10. What was your reaction when Maura realizes her parents may have known all along about Christy's violence? Were you surprised based on what we know of Mr. Flynn?

11. When Bernie learns another pregnancy could kill her, she and Dan must abstain from sex. How do you think this loss of intimacy would affect a loving marriage?

12. How did the modern-day timeline influence your understanding of the historical narrative?

13. Early in the novel, Maura says, "A story is best told over tea and biscuits." If you could share tea with one character, who would you choose and why?