Nature

Much of the novel focuses on Olivia’s relationship with nature and her bees, and how she derives a sense of tranquility, happiness, nostalgia, and comfort from her interactions with the natural landscape of her home. Olivia retreated to her childhood farmhouse after fleeing her abusive relationship with Asher’s father, Braden, when Asher was still a little boy. The remote New Hampshire farm has been in her father’s family for generations and the calm seclusion from the chaos she lived with Braden reminds her who she is and what she truly values in her life.

Olivia’s relationship with nature and the bees is feudal: protection in return for a portion of the rewards. She views her role as a steward of the land, trying not to “bother the bees unless they need your help, and you help them when they need it” (14). She...