King of Pride

During one of their first interactions in the novel, Isabella notes that Kai is reading For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway. Consider the themes of this novel, specifically what it implies about morality and spontaneity. How does this apply to Kai’s character and the lessons he must learn over the course of the novel?

Huang does not veer as far into dark romance with King of Pride as she does with her other novels. In what ways does she ensure that the romantic tension remains just as high? What techniques, whether involving character, plot, or writing, does she implement?

Does the novel show that pride can be beneficial as well as detrimental? Support your answer with two examples.