The Pairing (The Proposition, #3)

How does the author’s conceptualization of queer pleasure as an empowering act of defiance inform the text? How does Theo and Kit’s journey on The Pursuit of Pleasure impact the novel’s genre, mood, and overall meaning?

Why are Theo and Kit reluctant to give their love a second chance, and why do they eventually take this risk? How is their relationship ultimately stronger because of their separation and reunion?

In what ways is Theo shaped by The Journey Toward Self-Acceptance? What obstacles does Theo face on this journey? By the end of the novel, how does the author show that she has made significant progress toward self-acceptance?

Some of Europe’s most famous and picturesque locales serve as a backdrop for Theo and Kit’s love story. Select two destinations on the tour and examine how the author uses the history, art, and/or cuisine of these specific settings to develop one of the main characters or major themes.

Throughout the novel, McQuiston uses imagery to capture the sights, aromas, and tastes of Theo and Kit’s culinary tour across Europe. How does this imagery contribute to the novel’s setting, mood, and the theme of The Pursuit of Pleasure?

How does McQuiston design Fabrizio’s physical attributes and personality traits to make him seem like a conventional character in romantic fiction? How do they use Fabrizio to surprise the reader by subverting generic tropes?

The saguaro cactus represents home to Theo. Trace the symbol’s appearances and analyze the insights they offer into Theo’s characterization. In light of the saguaro’s symbolism, why is it significant that she sells her mobile bar at the end of the novel?

How does McQuiston use food and beverage pairings to symbolize romantic relationships? How does this symbol impact the novel’s structure, plot, and characterization?