Point of View

The story is written from a split perspective. The first section of the story is written from an omniscient perspective though the majority of the focus is on George Harwood. There are some limitations, such as the fact that the reader doesn't know the thoughts of every character in every scene. As the story reverts back to 1956, the perspective reverts to first person from Sabine's perspective. The first section of the story covers the final days of George's life. The tone of that section is one of impending doom through the heartache of a couple who know they are nearing the end of their lives.

There are many sections of the book that are more upbeat with a hopeful tone. Sabine is miserable in Trinidad from the beginning but is determined to remain for George's sake. This colors her thoughts, attitudes, and actions toward the...