Personal freedom versus public health. Who gets to decide (and judge) how you raise your own children? How do you know (and choose) what’s right? What happens when your choices have an impact on others? How do we reconcile societal needs and values with personal beliefs and fears? Such questions are at the heart of Emily Edwards’ The Herd, a thought-provoking debut that’s sure to spark big debate as it sets readers off on a heady emotional rollercoaster, with unexpected revelations as it builds to a thrilling, moving climax.

With two relatable women and a weighty, timely topic at its heart, The Herd seems like the ideal novel for book clubs to get to grips with. Read on for a set of questions to spark your discussions.

1. “They weren’t exactly chalk and cheese; more like cheese and pineapple - a weird, unexpected pairing that just worked”. Do you agree with this statement about Elizabeth and Bry’s friendship? Why do you think it “just worked”?

2. “They’re usually an ‘Elizabeth and Jack’ couple, but Elizabeth thinks it sounds better on this occasion if it’s ‘Jack and Elizabeth’”. Why do you think Elizabeth decides to sign the email about the party attendees being vaccinated like this, contrary to her usual sign-off? What does it reveal about her?

3. How would you have reacted to receiving Elizabeth’s email ahead of Clemmie’s birthday party?

4. “You are going to be nice to them, aren’t you, Elizabeth?”

Elizabeth feels hot suddenly. “I’m always nice,” she says, disproportionately pissed off. She wants to know what the fuck Bry is talking about.”

What does this exchange reveal about the women’s personalities and relationship? What is the author trying to reveal through it?

5. What’s the significance of the ladybird invasion?

6. Given her reason, did you sympathise with Bry’s stance on vaccination?

7. “Correct me if I’m wrong, but you have never said the words ‘Alba isn’t vaccinated’ to your best friend.” How did you feel about Bry’s evasion of Elizabeth’s vaccination question? Was Bry being wilfully disingenuous, or was she right to assume Elizabeth “knows we won’t ever vaccinate Alba”?

8. How did you feel when Ash went behind Bry’s back, and against her wishes? Did you think it was acceptable?

9. “I’m not jealous of her, Jack. I mean, she doesn’t have any children. I can’t imagine a life without children. I’ve just made different - and I’d argue - better life choices”. What does Elizabeth’s reaction to new neighbour Rosalyn reveal about her character? Do you agree she’s made “better life choices”? Why does Elizabeth think her choices are better?

10. Were you surprised Elizabeth went to court? Were you surprised by Bry’s barrister’s presentation of evidence from Dr Parker? Did that change your opinion of any characters?

11. How likeable did you find the characters? Who did you empathise with most?

12. What did you think of the novel’s conclusion? How did it leave you feeling? Have any of your opinions changed after reading The Herd?

Looking for your next book club read? Head here for suggestions, and here for more discussion questions to get your discussions going.