Engaging in the Twists of "Rock Paper Scissors"
As I settled down to read Alice Feeney’s Rock Paper Scissors, I couldn’t help but think about the complexities of relationships—especially since I was reflecting on my own marriage, celebrating our twentieth anniversary. This thriller, steeped in tension and secrets, explores the fragile nature of love through the lens of Adam and Amelia Wright—two characters whose marriage is on the brink. Feeney’s sharp prose drew me in from the start, sparking a mix of curiosity and a sense of unease.
The premise is gripping: Adam, a successful screenwriter living with prosopagnosia—a neurological condition that prevents him from recognizing faces, even those of his wife—embarks on a weekend getaway to a remote chapel in Scotland with Amelia, who seems to be harboring her own secrets. Their marriage has long been a display of “keeping up appearances,” a theme that resonated deeply, especially as I reflected on the hidden layers behind the smiles we wear. Feeney perfectly captures this duality:
"We’re both pretty good at keeping up appearances and I find people see what they want to see."
This chilling atmosphere permeates the narrative. Blackwater Chapel, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, becomes a character in its own right, embodying both isolation and mystique. The relentless winter storm further seals the couple away, forcing them to confront not only the freezing elements but also the hidden fissures within their relationship.
The novel is presented through alternating perspectives, letting us peek into both Adam’s and Amelia’s psyches. Their voices are distinct and compelling, allowing us to engage with their fears, disappointments, and hopes. The incorporation of “wifely letters” Amelia writes to Adam as anniversary gifts adds layers, revealing hidden truths and deepening the unfolding drama. And just when you think you have a grasp on their motivations, Feeney introduces Robin, a mysterious local whose presence complicates the narrative further.
What truly stands out in Feeney’s writing is her skillful layering of suspense and atmosphere, creating a sense of urgency that made it hard to put the book down. Each chapter ends with tantalizing hooks, compelling you to read just one more page—or more, if you can avoid the responsibilities of everyday life! Her descriptive language conjures vivid imagery, drawing us into the eerie world of the chapel. I found myself experiencing a chill not just from the narrative but from the snow-laden Scottish landscape itself:
"The light from the old-fashioned candlestick holder he is carrying casts ghostly shadows around the bedroom…"
As I turned the pages, I grappled with questions of trust and deception, anxiously wondering: Who is lying? Is either character truly innocent? And what fate awaits them in their isolated prison? Feeney deftly intertwines these suspenseful threads, eliciting gasps as revelations unfold.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the ride, I did have some reservations about the marketing surrounding the book; it felt slightly misleading after I finished. However, these concerns did little to diminish my overall excitement as I turned the final pages, full of unexpected twists that had me questioning everything I thought I understood.
In conclusion, Rock Paper Scissors is an enthralling read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers that delve into human relationships. It will appeal to fans of mystery and suspense, particularly those curious about the unseen fractures in seemingly perfect marriages. After this reading experience, I can’t help but ponder the importance of open communication—something I aim to prioritize in my own life. Alice Feeney has a remarkable ability to balance psychological intrigue with profound emotional truths, and I cannot wait to see which threads she weaves into her next story. So, if you’re looking for a chilling mystery that might just frost over your heart, pick up this book—just remember to bundle up!