The Turn of The Key

As Rowan starts the nanny job, how does her outward “Perfect Nanny” (185) persona differ from her real personality? Do the differences make you suspicious of her? Why or why not?

What kind of parents do you perceive Bill and Sandra Elincourt to be? Do you think it’s reasonable that they leave Rowan with the children after the first day? Are Sandra’s instruction binder and the Happy app enough to make up for their absence?

How does Rowan feel about the surveillance cameras throughout the house? Do you think her feelings are warranted? Why or why not?

Why do you think Rowan has such a difficult time bonding with Maddie? Does Maddie seem like a particularly troubled child, or do you think she’s just acting out with Rowan?

What is Rowan’s relationship like with Jack Grant? Do his intentions seem to be genuine, or are there aspects of his character that appear questionable? If so, what are they?

Why do you think Bill and Sandra kept the poison garden on their property? Does simply locking it up, rather than getting rid of it entirely, seem to be in keeping with their general approach to parenting?

What role does Rowan’s sleep deprivation play in her perception that the house is haunted? Is there any merit to her fear that there are ghosts in the house, or is her lack of sleep simply making her paranoid?

How does finding out that Rowan Caine is Rachel Gerhardt change your perception of her character? Should she have been honest about her identity from the beginning, or were her reasons for hiding it justified?