Get ready for a captivating journey with The Familiar! Author Leigh Bardugo delivers a richly atmospheric tale of magic, survival, identity, and ambition set against the backdrop of the Spanish Golden Age. Luzia Cotado’s struggle to navigate a world of political intrigue and dangerous secrets while hiding her forbidden powers is both thrilling and deeply emotional. This book club guide will explore the complex characters, powerful themes, and unforgettable twists that make this novel an absolute standout.

Discussion Reading Guide

1. Luzia’s use of magic as a survival tool is central to the story. How do you think her relationship with magic changes as she navigates society?
2. How do themes of identity and heritage impact Luzia’s choices? In what ways does she embrace or resist her background?
3. Guillén’s character brings depth to the story with his complex past. How does his relationship with Luzia evolve, and what does it reveal about each character?
4. How does Bardugo explore the idea of betrayal in The Familiar?
5. Bardugo blends elements of magic and realism. How do these supernatural elements influence the characters’ decisions and the world around them?
6. The novel deals with power, ambition, and survival. Do you think Luzia’s ambition to escape her life is worth the risks she takes?
7. How does The Familiar examine the concept of power—both political and magical?
8. What does The Familiar reveal about the concept of identity and belonging?
9. How does The Familiar use the historical setting to enhance the story?
10. What message do you think Bardugo is trying to convey about fate and choice in the novel?