Chapter 29: Amy's Six-Point Checklist and the Decision to Include Steve
⚠️ 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
Amy continues driving with Rosie, who asks about Steve, Amy's father-in-law, and jokes about finding him attractive. Amy reflects on whether she was right to involve Steve. She mentally runs through her six-point checklist, originally taught by Jeff Nolan. She assesses the situation (Loubet wants her dead, she is being framed for three murders), her strengths (field experience, cash, safe harbour with Barbara, no direct evidence linking her to any crime), and weaknesses (inexperience in murder investigation, Loubet as a threat, Jeff possibly murdered, Rosie's unpredictable behaviour). She concludes that involving Steve builds on her strengths because he is trustworthy and capable of investigating. She texts Adam to ask permission, and Adam agrees. Steve messages that he has landed and asks for directions. Amy directs him to the Eternal Glade Wellness Retreat Resort to meet Barbara Elliot. Amy now has four murders to solve with Rosie and Steve, and she feels energized by the challenge.
Key Events
- Rosie flirts with the idea of meeting Steve, and Amy warns her not to touch him.
- Amy recalls and works through her six-point checklist (situation, strengths, weaknesses, build on strengths, control weaknesses, act decisively).
- Amy texts Adam to ask if Steve can help; Adam replies supportively.
- Steve messages from the airport; Amy gives him directions to Barbara's retreat.
- Amy mentally embraces her odds: four murders, two unlikely allies.
Character Development
- Amy Wheeler: Demonstrates methodical thinking by applying the six-point checklist. She shows trust in Steve by involving him despite the danger, and she balances her relationship with Adam by keeping him informed. Her emotional side emerges when she texts “Same” in reply to Adam's love message.
- Rosie D’Antonio: Continues to be an unpredictable and mischievous presence—she smokes, sings, and flips off a truck driver. Her curiosity about Steve highlights her flirtatious and impulsive nature.
- Steve: Not physically present but his character is developed through messages and Amy's internal assessment. He is described as trustworthy, capable, but also slightly awkward (worried about Brad hearing him use the toilet).
- Adam: Although offstage, his easygoing and supportive response shows his trust in Amy's judgement.
- Jeff Nolan: Referenced through the six-point checklist; his training continues to guide Amy.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- The Six-Point Checklist: A symbol of discipline and learned expertise. Amy's reliance on it shows her training and her rational approach to a chaotic situation.
- Partnership and Trust: Amy's decision to bring Steve into the investigation underscores the theme that solving murders requires collaboration. She trusts Steve and Rosie despite the risks.
- Adrenaline and Action: Amy notes that her “old friend adrenaline has returned,” linking the thrill of investigation to her identity as a security professional.
- Control vs. Chaos: Amy runs the checklist to impose order on a situation that is spiralling—being framed, hunted, and driving with an unpredictable companion.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter marks Amy's transition from reactive to proactive. By working through the checklist and deciding to investigate, she shifts from a victim of circumstance to an active investigator. The chapter formalises her team (Steve and Rosie) and sets the stage for the collaborative mystery-solving that follows. It also deepens the reader's understanding of Amy's personality—disciplined yet romantic, trusting yet cautious.
Study Questions and Answers
1. What are the six points of Amy's checklist, and which one does she conclude is unachievable?
The six points are: assess the situation, assess your strengths, assess your weaknesses, can you build on your strengths, can you control your weaknesses, and act decisively. She concludes that controlling her weaknesses (point five) is not possible, mainly because of Rosie's unpredictable behaviour.
2. Why does Amy decide to involve Steve in the investigation?
Amy decides that involving Steve builds on her strengths because he is a man she can trust and a man who can investigate. She believes his help will improve her chances of solving the murders and protecting herself.
3. How does Amy ensure Adam feels included in her decision to ask Steve for help?
Amy texts Adam: “Ads, might ask your dad for a bit of advice. Work stuff. Okay by you?” She knows the key with Adam is to make him feel part of whatever is going on, and his positive reply confirms that the approach works.