Collateral: A Novel [Paperback]

From theNew York Timesbestselling author of the novelTriangles—a gorgeous, “raw and riveting tale of love and forgiveness” (Publishers Weekly) about a woman torn between her love for a dedicated Marine and her resentment of the war that is tearing their lives apart.

The last thing Ashley ever expected was to end up a military wife. But Cole doesn’t match her stereotype of the aggressive Marine. He’s pas­sionate and romantic, and their relationship evolves into a deeply felt, sexually charged love affair that survives four deployments. Cole desper­ately wants Ashley to marry him, but when she meets another man, a college professor, she begins to see what life might be like outside the shadow of war.

Written in Ellen Hopkins’s stunning poetic verse style,Collateralcap­tures the hearts of the soldiers on the battlefield and the minds of their friends, family, and lovers who also sacrifice their lives and happiness for their country at war. Is the collateral damage worth the fight?Ellen Hopkinsis the #1New York Timesbestselling author ofTriangles, as well as nine young adult novels, including the Crank trilogy andTilt, which are beloved by teens and adults alike. She lives in Carson City, Nevada, with her family. Visit her online at EllenHopkins.com.This reading group guide for Collateral includes an introduction, discussion questions, and ideas for enhancing your book club. The suggested questions are intended to help your reading group find new and interesting angles and topics for your discussion. We hope that these ideas will enrich your conversation and increase your enjoyment of the book.


Introduction

Ashley Patterson, a graduate student and poet, never expected to become a military wife. But she and her best friend, Darian, fall for soldiers, both on separate paths to war. DarialÓ