Lacy’s brother Gunther is her alter ego, symbolizing the neglected elements of Lacy’s character. Most of the time, Lacy’s approach to life is conservative. She works diligently, staying within the parameters of her job, but underneath, she has an unacknowledged and unexpressed drive for novelty, represented by Gunther. That unexpressed drive is stirred by the prospect of catching a serial killer.

When Gunther accompanies Lacy to meet Jeri at the motel, he represents Lacy’s switch from being a primarily reactive character to an active one, adopting more of Gunther’s driven qualities. As in the previous book, The Whistler, Lacy is tipped over into her active role by joining Gunther to stop a threat against another woman.

Allie confesses to Lacy that he is saving for an engagement ring, but he is unsure if Lacy has any interest in marrying him. The ring symbolizes the potential for change. If Lacy accepts it, she let go of the life she has been holding onto and make a commitment to something completely different. She signals her readiness for change by agreeing to accept the ring and to moving on to a new adventure with Allie.