A Mercy

To what might the title of the novel be referring? Consider the title in coordination with the opening and closing chapters of the novel.

How do the alternating perspectives in the narrative add to the story? Do the cliffhangers at the end of each chapter add in any way to the tone of the work? Does it differ from chapter to chapter?

All the characters make myriad mistakes throughout the novel. How do they remain sympathetic to the reader? Are there any characters that are decidedly redeemed or condemned by the end?