Explore the thematic distinction between faith and love in the novel. How do Mische’s experiences with Atroxus blur the lines between these two concepts, and how does her relationship with Asar help her redefine them?

What are two tropes Carissa Broadbent uses throughout the novel? How do these tropes contribute to the novel’s characters, relationships, or themes? How do they function as a storytelling technique?

How do the stages of Descent represent the character arcs of Mische and Asar? How does their physical journey reflect their spiritual and emotional ones throughout the novel?