Throughout the novel, Aerin struggles to find belonging in her family, whether because of her heritage, her skills, or other traits that she cannot change. The complex demands and dynamics of the royal household create an environment in which Aerin constantly feels devalued or worthless. The central role of Aerin’s complex family dynamics is emphasized by the fact that McKinley deliberately sidelines the main plot to provide in-depth exposition that establishes Aerin’s unique dynamics with each major sol and sola. Tor adores her, her father loves her distantly and officially, Galanna openly hates her, and Perlith tricks and mocks her. Aerin must overcome these internal and external dynamics by finding value in herself elsewhere, thereby stabilizing the royal household and establishing her place in it. However, this process ultimately occurs only through tragedy and destruction.

Much of Aerin’s struggle comes from her own household’s refusal to discuss her fabled, infamous mother. Her father refuses to talk about his late wife, and others, like Galanna, openly defame her as a witch, leaving Aerin to try and build her own identity from the tragedy of her mother’s death. Additionally, since Aerin’s mother is rumored to have died of sheer disappointment at having a daughter, Aerin’s sense of self-worth is automatically damaged.