Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is a theme of this novel that is not really investigated until the end of the novel. The novel is clearly filled with the idea of sex due to the fact that the murder victims in the case that propels the plot are prostitutes. However, in the time period in which this novel is set, prostitution is legal. Not only is prostitution legal, but the prostitutes must apply for a license and are required to have monthly physical examines to ensure they are not spreading disease. This makes the idea of sexual abuse more a theory than a reality in this novel. Unfortunately, this will change as the plot continues to develop.

As Dallas continues her investigation into the death of Sharon DeBlass, she meets Roarke. Roarke is a rich businessman who is known to have gone out with Sharon in the days before her...