Chapter 8: Lt. Bev — Summary and Analysis

⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.

Summary

Chapter 8 opens on Saturday, July 30, at 8 a.m., marking the fourth day of the search for Valerie Gillis. The weather has turned favorable—clear skies and calm winds—creating what Lt. Bev considers ideal search conditions. One hundred thirty-one searchers have assembled, including wardens from across the state who are volunteering on their day off, along with several retired wardens who once doubted Lt. Bev. Mike is present, wearing a knee brace and winking at her from a distance. A local church has set up a table with oatmeal and coffee, and Lt. Bev notes that the atmosphere is almost festive—she believes that if Valerie can be found, they will find her.

Rob catches Lt. Bev's eye and taps his watch, signaling that it's time for the first press conference. Sugarloaf has donated a conference room in a back wing of the hotel, along with a staff dormitory, allowing Lt. Bev to remain on-site around the clock. As she and Rob approach, they hear a din from the corridor. The conference room is full: a local rotary club is serving bagels and coffee to a corps of media members in button-downs and press passes.

Wayne and Janet Gillis lean against the wall in anguish, with Gregory Bouras beside them staring into his coffee. Janet waves when she sees Lt. Bev, and Wayne pumps his fist. Lt. Bev greets Janet with a new nickname,