Point of View

The novel is told through a first-person narrative and does not vary from this perspective. It is Leeds’ voice and experiences that inform the reader. The focus of the novel is limited in both setting and characters. The majority of the novel takes place within the confines of a bed and breakfast, with only the epilogue veering outside of the venue. The characters interact on an insular level and only briefly engage with others outside of the three main characters: Leeds, Layla, and Willow.

Leeds falls in love with Layla quickly and is enamored by her and the energy she gives off. The shooting takes place early in their relationship, changing their dynamic completely. “I didn’t treat her like she was fragile. I treated her like she was unbreakable. Maybe that’s where I’ve gone wrong. I need to treat her like the...