InTech, New York City

InTech is the New York City-based engineering consulting firm for which Aaron and Lina work. At the start of the novel, Rosie makes Lina’s time at InTech bearable, while Aaron’s presence grates on her nerves. There are a few sexist employees, like Gerald, who make the work environment hostile.

Brooklyn, New York City

Both Lina and Aaron live in Brooklyn. Lina lives in a small studio apartment in Bed-Stuy. Aaron lives in a spacious, luxurious apartment in Dumbo, which he paid for with his inheritance.

Northern Spain

Lina’s family is from Northern Spain. Lina describes her picturesque hometown: “The small city where I had come from stood on the most northern coast of the peninsula, wedged between the often fierce and ivory Cantabrian Sea and a range of emerald mountains” (305). Lina’s homecoming is an emotional and transformative experience as she realizes...