Point of View

This novel is written in the past tense and in the limited third-person from three different character perspective: Evelyn in the 1940s, Jackie in the 1980s, and T.C. In the 2010s. These perspectives differ due to chronological and generational differences that highlight the decline of the family line caused by adverse economic and sociopolitical phenomena. Evelyn’s perspective is shaped by her wealthy background and her love for the poor but ambitious Renard. Then, from Jackie’s perspective, the reader gains insight into Jackie’s precarious financial situation and the struggles of her husband’s drug addiction. Lastly, T.C.’s perspective depicts his lack of economic independence and his struggle to find work within the bounds of the law.

Although the novel only technically demonstrates these three character perspectives, much of the drama of the novel is generated by intergenerational clashes of perspective...