The Expats

Discuss the politics of The Expats by examining Kate’s role as a state agent. How do her actions interfere with the self-determined agenda of the Latin American nations to which she has been assigned? What does this say about the agenda of the US as a regional power?

The novel argues that keeping secrets is natural to the human experience. At what point does it become necessary for someone to disclose their secrets? Discuss your answer in the context of the novel’s central characters and their actions.

Pavone uses the novel to comment on the gender dynamics of expatriate families in Europe. Does his depiction reflect the actual state of employment in Luxembourg and other popular expatriate destinations? Research expatriate life in Europe, then use evidence to support or refute Pavone’s commentary.

Kate Moore tries to find a meaningful way to approach her life in early retirement. In the end, she chooses to return to her career. What does this decision say about modern society’s view on identity, gender roles, and/or retirement? What does it say about Kate’s character arc and personal growth?

Consider the ways the novel explicitly compares and contrasts characters, specifically Bill with Dexter and Julia with Kate. In what ways can you also compare and contrast Bill with Kate and Dexter with Julia? What parallels or patterns emerge?

Hayden cautions Kate not to pursue her investigation for fear of discovering truths she would rather not know. Given the secrets in the novel, does the phrase “ignorance is bliss” truly apply? Why or why not?

Dexter justifies that he had stolen from Colonel Petrovic to seek justice for his brother. Later, he learns that the colonel had nothing to do with his brother’s death. What does this suggest about the adage, “The ends justify the means?” In what ways does Pavone’s novel comment on the concept of justice?

Kate helps Dexter work out an alibi that will allow them to escape the FBI and Interpol’s attention. However, this alibi involves pretending that Dexter had committed another crime. What does this suggest about the role of law enforcement agencies regarding justice and truth? Why might this alibi be enough for the FBI to give up their pursuit of Dexter?