One notable character whose fate seems particularly impacted by gender, sexuality, and exploitation is Joey. It's as if he’s destined to be a sex worker. His mother was a prostitute, and it could be argued that his mom’s profession foreshadows what Joey will end up doing. It also looks like Joey’s DJ gig is somehow connected to his sex work. There’s a connection between the world of nightlife and the world of sex work.

Additionally, it might be interesting to discuss the ways in which Joey’s work connects to his sexuality. Though Joey has sex with men, he doesn’t refer to himself as gay, homosexual, or queer. He doesn’t seem too concerned with tying his sexuality to one clear-cut word.

In terms of exploitation, Joey deftly exploits his looks and sexuality for his benefit. He admits that it’s “pleasant” to wake up in a luxurious hotel room with an envelope of money waiting for him.

Other characters, too, find their gender and sexuality inseparable from their fate. Lolita Luna deploys her beauty and appeal to gain power over influential men like General Ledesma and Severo Alacran. Isabel’s marriage to Severo is mostly dependent on her good looks.

Finally, Daisy’s violent fate appears tied to her refusal to exploit her gender and sexuality. Her disavowal of the beauty pageant might represent a rejection to the objectification that happens throughout the novel. Her rebellion against exploitative gender norms leads to a terrible encounter with General Ledesma.