How does Jodi Picoult use imagery in Salem Falls?

Imagery:

"In his blue uniform, his badge glinting like a third eye, Wes Courtemanche was handsome enough to make women in Salem Falls dream about committing crimes.

"As Gillian watched her father schmooze on his office phone, words dripping from his lips like oil, she wondered what it would be like to shoot him in the head."

"The stench of refuse rose around them like a dark jungle, but all Jack could smell was the vanilla that seemed to come from the curve of Addie's neck."