Hudson, New York

The majority of the novel is set in Hudson, New York. Shortly prior to the narrative present, Greta relocates to this location from California. After breaking up with Stacy and reconnecting with Sabine, she agrees to move to Hudson and to take up residence in Sabine's farmhouse with her.

Hudson is largely populated by rich, middle-aged individuals. Greta has heard it "described as a college town without a college, or summer camp for adults" (33). Although these descriptions are not entirely inaccurate, Greta sees it more as "a small community of expats" (33). Indeed, all of the Hudson residents seem to behave "as if they'd been banished from their native country, or had simply withdrawn allegiance, or were on the lam" (33). Because Sabine is familiar with the area and with its culture, she tries to describe it to Greta. She explains that very few people in Hudson are...