The novel’s protagonist, Marcie Bowers, is described as “striking” with “sculpted features.” However, her intelligence and capabilities are emphasized over her physical attributes. A high achiever from an early age, she was a high school valedictorian and an honor student before embarking on a career in law. Reflecting on the protagonist’s character, Silas Renfrow summarizes her in one word: “Formidable […]. That’s the word. Marcie Bowers is formidable” (49).

Marcie’s different roles as an attorney, wife, and mother combine to create a multi-faceted character who is passionate about her work and devoted to her family. The down-to-earth tone of her first-person narrative makes her relatable to readers. Marcie’s narrative gives emotional depth to the high-stakes thriller as she undergoes a psychological ordeal while also confronting life-threatening danger. The novel charts her inner turmoil as she discovers that her husband has lied to her for years and is then faced with his loss. Throughout these events, she exhibits grace under pressure, as her outward composure belies her emotions. Her prioritization of her children’s welfare at all times is encapsulated in her mantra, “I have to be the rock. I have to hold it together” (249).