He'd joined the police service because it provided the sense of duty and community that he'd missed when he left the Brethren. Jonathan sometimes mocked him because he took himself so seriously.”
-- Narrator (2 )

Importance: This is a look at Matthew's true nature and the reason he is so serious. His background is an important part of his character, and the reader picks up pieces of information throughout the novel that add depth to the characters, including Matthew.

Eve's dad is dead. Someone stuck a piece of glass in his neck. He bled all over her studio floor.”
-- Jen (chapter 7)

Importance: This is Jen's reaction when Sarah tries to avoid their first interview together. Sarah's reaction – that it is not “convenient” to talk to Jen now – seems to hint that she has something to hide. Jen knows her response here is not professional and that Matthew would berate her for it, but it seems to cut...