Being Used Affects Self-Worth

Through the character of Avery, the novel examines how being used as a tool by others affects an individual's self-worth. Avery is used as a tool by Tobias, his grandsons, and others. This makes her question her worth as an individual. Jameson is one of the main characters who uses Avery as a tool. He recognizes his mistake and apologizes to her after she is almost killed by a bomb. Tobias, who is dead, used Avery as a tool to draw his son, Toby, out of hiding. She remains angry with him for putting her in her current position. Further, Sheffield, Eli, and Mellie also use Avery as a tool to draw Toby out of hiding, each with their own purpose in mind.

Avery is first used as a tool when Tobias names her as the sole heir in his will. Some members...