Throughout the novel, turtles are associated with Dawn and symbolize several different aspects of her character. Early in the narrative, Natalie reveals that her missing coworker is fonder of turtles “than any fully grown adult rightfully should [be]” (15). The mysterious appearance of a red-stained turtle figurine on Natalie’s desk also serves as a reminder of Dawn and her possible murder. Meanwhile, Dawn’s emails elaborate on her affinity with the reptilian creatures. The protagonist explains that, like a turtle, she feels the need to retract into a shell in challenging social situations. Dawn’s memory of her mother dismantling the cardboard shell she constructed as a child reflects her desire for a sanctuary from the world and her mother’s refusal to provide it.

The portrayal of turtles as gentle, reclusive creatures firmly establishes the impression of Dawn’s role as a “victim,” for when faced with threats, her only defense mechanism is to retreat. However, the symbolism shifts once again when Dawn is revealed to have masterminded a ruthless revenge campaign. In this scene, Dawn compares herself to the predatory “soft-shelled turtle” with its “razor-sharp beak” (245). Like this species, Dawn uses her innocuous appearance as a disguise and catches her prey through “patience.