Emma

Emma is one of two protagonists and narrators of the novel. Emma works as a travel nurse. She is in her late twenties.

Emma’s defining trait is her empathy. Unfortunately, this means that her mother, Amber, takes advantage of her. Maddy resents Emma’s kindness when it comes to Amber while Justin admires her for it. Ultimately, Emma learns that she must put herself first if she is to love anyone in a healthy way.

Emma’s hamartia is her fear of abandonment. This fear prevents her from maintaining long-term romantic relationships. Emma takes pride in being dependent on no place or person for happiness. Indeed, she believes her independence is a “superpower,” since it means she does not “need anyone” (97). Emma’s mentality explains her unwillingness to take dating Justin seriously. That she does so at all is proof that she is not doomed to be...