Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead

One of the key thematic arguments made by the novel is that women depend on their support network of other women, particularly when faced with men like Steven, who use their power to undermine women’s happiness and security. Cosimano highlights this theme through Finn’s relationships with the women in her life and how they contrast with her relationship with Steven.

Cosimano develops Steven’s character and his relationship with Finn as a contrast to her relationships with women. Not only does he fail to support his children financially, but he has also taken Finn’s rightful financial assets, leaving her to support two young children on a novelist’s salary. Steven then knowingly uses this financial leverage to force Finn to capitulate to his demands. He also works to undermine her on a personal level, implying that her judgment about people is bad and that she and the children are not safe in the house with Vero. Cosimano also illustrates how Steven’s behavior is not just focused on Finn: Both Theresa and Bree have been manipulated and cast aside by him. This characterization of Steven and his lack of support contrasts sharply with the portraits of the women and their relationships.