Content Warning: Every Last Secret and this section of the study guide refer to sexual assault, incest, threats of gun violence, alcohol addiction, and abusive relationships (emotional manipulation and physical abuse).

The prologue is set in the present, told from the perspective of Neena Ryder. Neena is being interviewed by a detective, and later, the reader will learn that Neena is suspected of trying to have her husband killed. For now, the reason for the interrogation is unclear. When the detective calls Neena “Mrs. Ryder,” Neena corrects her: “Dr. Ryder” (2). Neena seems unconcerned by the interrogation as she observes her appearance with satisfaction in the mirror of the interview room.

The narrative flashes back to four months prior to Neena’s being questioned by the detective. Chapter 1 opens on the perspective of Catherine “Cat” Winthorpe. Cat and her husband, William Winthorpe, are hosting a lavish party—a farewell to the families in their neighborhood who will disperse for the summer before returning in the fall. The Winthorpes live in Atherton, a wealthy area of Palo Alto, and are extremely rich. They belong to the country club, have a large house, and a team of staff, including butlers.