Point of View

The author only deviates from the main character's point of view in part of one chapter, when the point of view is given over to Margie. In all other chapters, the point of view is from Ethan either by first person or third person. The author creates suspense and distances the reader from Ethan's true feelings by reverting back to third person in Part Two, but allows the reader back inside Ethan's head soon thereafter, to accelerate the plot.

The other characters in the story are drawn very lightly, offering a limited view of their feelings. Their positions are reflected in Ethan's reactions to them, and their purposes in the story are strictly defined. The other characters, except for Margie, are not mentioned unless they are in Ethan's presence or in his thoughts.

Setting

The majority of the novel is set in New Baytown, a small...