There are three important considerations regarding the setting of this novel which may not be immediately obvious to readers who have never visited Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The first is that Edmonton is far enough north that twilight lasts a long time.

From four o'clock till pitch black, even in October, is over three hours—a very long time for Barbara to be held captive by an escaped murderer.

The second consideration is that Edmonton can have severe weather changes (including frost, snow, or thunderstorms) in two hours, during any month of the year. When Barbara is confined in the secret garden by Jack Norton, his suggestion to tie her up for the night and leave her there in the morning is life-threatening. Wearing only a skirt and light sweater, she would definitely have to endure thirst and temperatures well below freezing. It is quite likely...