Pacific Point

Pacific Point is the epicenter of action for most of the book. The oil spill occurred just off the coast of Pacific Point and many of the Lennox family lives within a nearby radius. The area is on the upper end of the social scale and contrasts starkly with the numerous rundown buildings Lew Archer must visit during his investigation. However, the landscape provides the perfect cover-up for murders since the cliffs can be dangerous places to walk and the oil adds an extra layer of slippery filth to blame falls on.

Sandhill Lake

Sandhill Lake is the appointed place for the ransom drop. Jack Lennox is familiar with the spot because his father used to be a member of the hunting club located near the lake. The spot becomes part of the investigation when both Jack Lennox and the suspected kidnapper are shot. Lew Archer...