The Heiress

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains references to physical abuse, domestic violence, psychological manipulation, death by suicide, alcohol use disorder, and substance misuse.

Jules is one of the protagonists of The Heiress. Later in the novel, it is revealed that she is really Caitlin Darnell, the granddaughter of Ruby’s sister, Claire. Jules is from Florida, calling herself “Florida trailer park trash” (178), which, in her opinion, makes her uniquely qualified to confront the wealth and entitlement of the McTavishes. Jules’s brash, straightforward manner clashes with the McTavish snobbery and bullying. Even though she is impressed with Ashby House and the McTavish wealth, she is not intimidated by the family, and her insouciance helps Cam through the difficulty of facing his family. As Cam says, “Her sputtering laughter chases away some of the shadows, just like I’d hoped it would” (85). Her refusal to be cowed by the McTavishes’ snobbery and her blunt manner help Cam keep his perspective.

Jules also finds value in Cam’s belief in her, reflecting, “He makes me feel like more than some Florida trailer park trash, like I’m every bit as shiny and good as he is” (178).