Though she is deceased, Kate Ryan plays an important role in the novel. How would you characterize Kate? Which of her traits are most valued by Tully, Johnny, or Marah, and to what effect?

In your estimation, who is the novel’s protagonist? With whom do you most sympathize? Why?

Why might the author have chosen to write the novel in multiple third-person points of view? How does this affect the conflict? Why are some scenes repeated from various characters’ perspectives?