New York City

The novel takes place almost entirely in New York City, which is the most populous city in the United States. Toby and Rachel first met in New York City when Rachel was an undergraduate and Toby was in medical school. They began dating and became engaged a year later. As a married couple, they resided together in New York City and raised their two children together. However, after Toby and Rachel decided that they should divorce, Toby moved out of their home and into his own apartment.

Toby’s Apartment

Throughout the novel’s central narrative, Toby lives alone in an apartment, as he and Rachel have separated. Toby and Rachel have agreed to share custody of the children, but Rachel soon leaves the children with Toby and then temporarily ceases contact. After Toby brings the kids to their sleepaway summer camp, he lives alone in...