The Seventh Veil of Salome

Moreno-Garcia alternates between different character points of view: Some of the characters narrate in the first person, while other sections are narrated in the third person. What is the impact of these alternating narrators? Why are the sections set in Judea narrated only from Salome’s point of view?

Why is Nancy consumed by jealousy? Which of Vera’s attributes makes Nancy particularly resentful? How do Nancy’s experiences in her career and relationships prime her to become jealous and violent?

Compare and contrast the relationships that Vera, Nancy, and Salome have with their parents. Does the novel suggest that the parents of these young women provide adequate care and guidance? How has the parenting they experienced shaped them?

How would you characterize Hollywood and the studio system as depicted in the novel? What dangers and obstacles does it suggest aspiring celebrities face? What is necessary for someone to succeed in this world, and what commentary does this offer on society as a whole?

Vera repeatedly encounters racism. What are the stereotypes she encounters? How does her racial identity intersect with her gender? What point does the novel make about the sexualization of women of color?

Why do Vera and Jay fall in love? Does the novel frame their relationship as inevitably tragic, or does it lead readers to expect a happy ending? What is the significance of this framing?

Moreno-Garcia gives Salome a clear motivation for initiating Jokanaan’s execution: her desire to rule as queen in her own right. In other versions of Salome’s story, her motivations are either unclear or related to revenge. How does this change impact Salome’s characterization?

How is music juxtaposed with film throughout the novel? What is the significance of Vera eventually becoming successful as a musician rather than an actress?