Slavery and how the characters feel about it define relationships in the novel. Rosemary and her friend Mary Byrd share their interest in boys, clothes, and parties. However, Rosemary and Mary Byrd disagree about slavery. Even so, they are able to remain friends. Conversely, Rosemary and Jeff agree about slavery, but disagree about which side to support before he goes off to fight. Mary Byrd and Derek disagree about slavery, and it almost ends their relationship. Even though the issue of slavery plays a prominent role among the characters in the novel, the graphic and harsh life of a slave is only alluded to in this novel. Other novels such as Uncle Tom's Cabin can provide a more detailed account of slave life.

However, the varied points of view held by Northerners and Southerners about slavery are well covered in the novel.

Southerners are portrayed as...