New York City

New York City is one of the primary settings of the novel. The characters Nina, Maura, Hank, Amie, and Ben all reside in this urban location. They are most often depicted in neighborhoods in Manhattan. Nina, Maura, and Ben also work in the city. Hank works at New York Memorial Hospital. Amie works at the Connelly Academy. This common setting unites the characters even before they become acquainted with one another, be it through the support group, local demonstrations, or mysterious love letters.

Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is another of the novels primary settings. Jack and Javier attend a military academy in this location. Anthony and Katherine also reside here. The chapters following either Jack's, Javier's, or Anthony's perspectives are all set in the D.C. area. Other characters later travel to Washington, D.C. for demonstrations, rallies, or protests.

Nina and Maura's Apartment