Content Warning: The source material for this guide includes references to drug and alcohol abuse, as well as depictions of gore and violence. Occasionally, the novel also makes references to ableist language and imperialist attitudes.

A mysterious woman approaches Kate Moore, claiming to recognize her. Kate can’t quite identify the woman, but she recognizes her expensive plaid jacket, which she remembers seeing in the window of a fancy boutique nearby. It is only when the woman removes her sunglasses that Kate remembers her and feels the need to leave town with her family. She thinks about a safe box in her apartment that contains fake passports, emergency funds, and a gun.

Kate’s husband, Dexter, wants to move their family to Luxembourg. Dexter explains to Kate that it will allow them to live a life of comfort and fulfill their dreams of travel. When prompted, he reveals that he has been given a lucrative offer to work at a private bank there. As the years go by, they will likely be rich enough to enter early retirement.

Dexter notes that he will need to travel regularly across Europe for his work but promises that it will not disrupt their family life.