Unraveling the Ties that Bind: A Review of Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney
As I flipped through the pages of Rock Paper Scissors, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Alice Feeney had woven a narrative that clung uncomfortably close to my own experiences in marriage. Celebrating a twentieth anniversary not so long ago has given me an appreciation for the intricate layers of love and the strain that can often bubble beneath the surface. Feeney’s portrayal of a couple on the brink—each harboring secrets and fears—drew me in and made me reflect on the fragility of relationships, framing it all within a captivating thriller.
The story follows Adam and Amelia Wright, who retreat to a remote Scottish chapel for what is supposed to be a healing weekend, their relationship in desperate need of mending. Yet, this weekend of reflection quickly morphs into a tense exploration of their marriage’s hidden cracks. Adam’s struggle with prosopagnosia, a neurological condition that inhibits his ability to recognize faces, adds an intriguing complexity to their dynamic. Can a man who can’t see the visage of his partner truly understand her? Their marriage, it turns out, is a series of miscommunications and unspoken words—a sentiment that resonates deeply with those of us who have tread similar waters.
Feeney’s writing captivates from the outset; her keen attention to atmospheric detail paints Scotland’s winter landscape as both breathtakingly beautiful and desperately isolating. I felt the chill of the winds and the encroaching darkness as the pair were sealed off from the world by a raging storm. The intertwining themes of isolation and revelation kept me glued to the pages. Each chapter was a delicate dance of revelations, juxtaposed cleverly with the couple’s anniversary gifts—significant treasures marking their journey together. This narrative device not only provides structure but also layers emotional depth to their words, drawing us closer into the heart of their struggles.
Among the standout moments are Adam’s reflections on his screenplay, aptly titled Rock Paper Scissors, a story that itself becomes a metaphor for their tumultuous relationship—made all the more poignant by the haunting backdrop of their snowy confinement. One entry that particularly struck me reads, “You can’t get this close to a cliff edge without seeing the rocks at the bottom,” echoing their precarious situation.
Yet, it is not merely a story laced with eerie suspense; it is a heartbreaking exploration of love and vulnerability. The dual perspectives of Adam and Amelia allow readers to peel back the layers of their complex characters, leading to those “wait, what?” moments that Feeney excels at crafting. The introduction of Robin, a third character who lives near the chapel, adds yet another layer of intrigue—keeping the reader guessing about her true intentions.
Before diving into Rock Paper Scissors, I infused the experience with a warm beverage, imagining myself nestled in a cozy nook, perhaps too snug to escape the emotional depths of the story. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates a thrilling narrative woven with themes of love, loss, and the lengths we go to for the ones we cherish.
In short, Alice Feeney has delivered a heart-pounding read that not only thrills but also resonates on a personal level. As I closed the book, I found myself reflecting on my own journey—it’s an experience that lingers long after the final page is turned. Whether you’re a fan of domestic thrillers, love well-crafted prose, or simply enjoy stories that challenge your assumptions, this book is not to be missed!