Point of View

The novel is narrated in the third-person, always from the perspective of Alva as she attempts to navigate New York society and her marriage to William Vanderbilt. The author places no limitations on the access to Alva’s inner thoughts, allowing the reader to understand her true motivations, fears, and conflicts. Alva is rarely completely honest with the people in her life, and often the dialogue of the character does not reflect her inner feelings, showing how difficult it is for family to read her emotions and offer her support. Alva wishes to elevate her family’s status and experiences longing to be close to them again as she must sacrifice hopes of true love when she marries William.

The point of view expressed by Alva exhibits a desire not to relinquish control to other people who will make decisions for her and her future...