The Ex

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of suicide.

The insidious nature of jealousy is a powerful theme throughout the novel, guiding the behavior of both the primary narrators, Anna and Cassie. In “The Ex” chapters, Anna’s jealousy of Joel’s new girlfriend Francesca causes her to lash out in anger. In “The New Girl” chapters, Cassie’s jealousy of Joel’s prior relationship with Francesca complicates her own relationship with Joel. Even before Anna sees Joel with Francesca, she feels intense jealousy knowing that Joel will one day find a woman he would “deem worthy of marriage, the house in the suburbs, the kids” (13). Anna’s jealousy is built on the fact that she believes Joel will marry the woman he dates after her: “I came to despise the new girl he would meet who would someday take my place at the altar when he was finally ready to settle down” (14). In these passages, the specific references to marriage reflect Anna’s belief that Joel didn’t think she was good enough to be his wife, and that his new girlfriend Francesca will be.

Anna’s jealousy over Francesca quickly transforms into anger and then into murderous intent.