Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington is the primary backdrop for the novel. Oliver moves here with his family when his old friend helps him find a position at the local university. Once he secures tenure here, Oliver, Emily, and Kathryn begin to regard the place as home.

In the narrative present, Oliver is living alone in the house he once shared with his wife and daughter. He has a dog to keep him company. He spends the majority of his time teaching at the university or working on his ongoing book deal.

When Ruhaba's nephew Adil comes to town, Oliver tries befriending him by showing him around the city. He often tries to meet up with Ruhaba at local restaurants and cafes, too.

University Campus

Oliver works at a university in Seattle. This is also where Ruhaba works. The university campus is therefore the backdrop for many of the characters'...