Content Warning: This section of the guide describes and discusses the source text’s treatment of domestic abuse.

French highlights the importance of loyalty through familial and communal connections. Cal and Trey’s relationship emphasizes how loyalty and trust can dissolve the need for vengeance and violence. Similarly, Trey sees the importance of familial relationships when she realizes that Sheila could go to prison for protecting her from Rushborough. Despite the threat of violence from the Ardnakelty men and Rushborough, Cal shows Trey that loyalty to the people she loves is more important than greed or revenge.

Johnny’s reappearance at the start of the novel tests the loyalty between Cal and Trey. At first, Trey falls under Johnny’s manipulation. However, Johnny’s actions put Trey and her family in danger, and she realizes that he makes empty promises and is only loyal to his self-interest. Cal, in contrast, puts aside his desire to guide and protect Trey by allowing her to make her own decisions, hoping that she will eventually see that her plan for revenge will not give her happiness. Although it takes Lena’s intervention to show Trey how her desire for revenge could hurt Cal, Trey immediately abandons her plan when she realizes the impact of her actions.