Signal Fires is a novel that explores trauma and its lasting impact. Teenage Sarah and Theo cause a car accident that kills another teenager, Theo’s crush Misty. Though Theo was the one driving the car at the time, Sarah believes she has culpability in Misty’s death, which is partly why she claims she was the one driving. Sarah blames herself for encouraging Theo to take risks, inviting Misty on their drive, and drinking too much, which forced Theo to drive the car as an inexperienced driver. She carries the guilt of Misty’s death for a long time. Neither she nor Theo are subjected to criminal consequences; neighbors and peers know the Wilfs and understand that Misty’s death was an accident. Sarah had long been a favorite in town for being a star athlete and student. However, because Sarah is never held accountable by her society, she never finds closure. The Wilfs themselves don’t speak of the accident, trapping Sara and Theo in unresolved guilt. Ben and Mimi are relieved that their children are alive, but know they are responsible for Misty’s death. But rather than confront this reality and speak about the accident openly, the Wilfs shut down. This leads to Sarah struggling with drinking and infidelity.