The first half of the novel is set in Manhattan. Darcy relocates to Manhattan when Rachel decides to go move there for law school. Darcy lives on the upper west side of Manhattan, a mostly wealthy neighborhood. Darcy lives in the perfect city for the lifestyle she wants. Manhattan is a city full of trendy spots, celebrities, and the best fashion in the country. Darcy soon gets a job as a publicist, and the world of celebrities and gossip opens for her. Darcy is in the perfect element for her destruction.