This Present Darkness

Compare and contrast the characters of Hank Busche and Oliver Young. How are they similar? How are they different? What makes them an interesting pair to examine?

Compare and contrast the characters of Tal and Rafar. What makes them different kinds of leaders beyond the obvious (i.e., one is an angel, one is a demon)?

Examine how the demons treat one another, and then compare that with how the angels treat one another. What are the characteristic distinctions that govern their interactions and individual choices?

How do the spiritual beings that inhabit the novel influence the activity of the humans since they very rarely interact directly?

What role does prayer play in advancing the plot?

Even though the story very clearly presents a war of good versus evil, there are a number of characters and events that could be described as occupying a morally gray area. Which characters could best be described as “gray,” and what actions demonstrate this conclusion?

What major events cause Marshall Hogan to gradually transform in character and conviction? How does he change? Does the narrative leave his motivations open to interpretation?

How does the physical location of Ashton serve the plot and contribute to the characterization of the spiritual battle that occurs within it? Would the story have been as effective in a different setting? Why or why not?