Andrew Bevel: A man lost in his power.

 Andrew Bevel states himself that he comes from a long line of “greats”. Fathers and grandfathers that were financially and intellectually “superior” to the bulk of society. People like him. However, as Diaz reveals through his novel Trust, everything is not always as it seems, especially for those with vast wealth and power.

First, a discussion of pure monetary power in Andrew’s life After the death of his wife, Mildred, a book is written by Harold Vanner. Called Bonds, the novel catches Andrew’s attention and immediately sends him into a spiral, believing that the story is a direct reflection of his life experiences, molded to tarnish his reputation. While talking about his solution to the issue with his secretary, he states, “As long as the book sells, Mr. Vanner will be bound by his current contract. And sell it shall. Because I will buy every single copy of every print run. And pulp them all.” (287) Naturally, his secretary is taken aback by this claim. Only an individual who has elevated themselves to such a level of divine power could find this solution feasible. Alas, due to Andrew’s gross surplus of wealth, he is able to make his selfish desires a reality. Andrew speaks frequently about the “average reader” when formulating his counterargument of a memoir to get back at Vanner. He wants to appeal to society but lacks the knowledge that he is so lost in his finances and power that he doesn't even begin to relate to the average human.

Speaking of being lost in his economic power, Andrew also fails to see the damage he is inflicting on women around him. To Andrew, women are simply another asset on his balance sheet, a resource of his own entitlement to control to appear well-off. Diaz limits the reader’s knowledge of Mildred’s voice until the final section of the book. It is revealed that Mildred was adept in financial thinking and mathematics. She is behind Andrew’s great financial success; however, when this success finally reached the public eye, Andrew had already twisted the facts for his power to grow. Society “started speaking of Andrew and “his touch” with awe.” (381) “His touch,” referring to Mildred and her ability. Andrew is too deep in his manipulation of the truth to consider the fact that his own wife is not being credited due to his greed. Her name isn’t even mentioned in this line. Mildred has been reduced to a subsection of Andrew and his “greatness”, and he doesn't see a thing wrong with it.

As a whole, Trust speaks about Andrew’s hidden fear. Fear that he will be unable to hold the reins of his power if others are known to be involved with his success. Due to this manipulation, the average reader is introduced to lies and deception, ultimately not knowing who to trust.