It's obvious that Conley's favorite character in this novel is Stricland. I'm sure it's because he doesn't talk much but acts, since his mind isn't full of jibber jabber from others. That's the only way a person can write. Conley understands Stricland enough to know that he needs that one special person that accepts him and loves him in spite of all his flaws. She can travel the same road and is the partner he and Conley have been looking for all their lives. I think I can safely say that Conley found his. Look at all of his dedications to Grace.