Genre
Satirical thriller
Setting and Context
The novel is primarily set in New York City.
Narrator and Point of View
The novel is told from several perspectives. However, the novel is mainly told from Nella Rogers' perspective.
Tone and Mood
The novel's tone is satirical and tense. Its mood is dark and suspenseful.
Protagonist and Antagonist
Nella Rogers is the protagonist; Hazel-May McCall is the main antagonist.
Major Conflict
Nella's interpersonal struggles and her struggles dealing with the world of book publishing.
Climax
When Nella realizes that there is a larger conspiracy involving Hazel that subtly controls literature written by black people.
Foreshadowing
Throughout the book, there is subtle foreshadowing about Hazel's real, nefarious intentions.
Understatement
The racism Nella experiences is often subtle and understated throughout the book. It is never overt; instead, she faces microaggressions or nasty looks.
Allusions
There are a number of allusions to many works of literature, as well as the history and culture of America (especially Black America).
Imagery
New York City is described with rich, evocative imagery to underscore the sheer size of the city.
Paradox
Not applicable.
Parallelism
Although they lead different lives, Nella and Hazel's stories are similar.
Metonymy and Synecdoche
Wagner Books is a metonym for broader world of elite, predominantly white institutions that have a tremendous amount of control.
Personification
The novels Hazel and Nella interact with are personified throughout the novel.
