The Guest List

The Guest List

• Genre: Fiction; mystery novel
• Originally Published: 2020
• Reading Level/Interest: College/Adult
• Structure/Length: Approx. 320 pages; approx. 10 hours, 22 minutes on audio
• Protagonist and Central Conflict: The novel is a mystery that takes place on a small island with a large cast of characters. The central conflict revolves around a murder on the night of a wedding, as everyone’s past and secrets come together amidst a storm.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Death; violence; addiction; suicide; grief

Lucy Foley, Author

• Bio: Born in England in 1986; author and editor; studied at Durham University and University College London; known for her mystery and historical fiction; currently resides in London
• Other Works: The Book of Lost and Found (2015); The Invitation (2016); Last Letter from Istanbul (2018); The Hunting Party (2019); The Paris Apartment (2022)
• Awards: New York Times Best Thrillers of 2020 (2020); Goodreads Choice Award for Mystery & Thriller (2020); CWA Gold Dagger Award Longlist (2020)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• The Power of Deceptive Appearances
• Haunting as Manifestations of the Past
• The Importance of Family

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Gain an understanding of the literary context of the genre and setting in which The Guest List is situated.