Consider the ways the themes of truth and perception manifest throughout the story—what makes a novel an apt vehicle to explore these themes? How does the medium of the ideas impact their exploration?

How is Richard able to manipulate Vanessa so successfully? What are the earliest signs of his abuse? In what ways do these early signs appear ordinary? In what ways do they appear menacing?

In what ways does Emma act as a foil for Vanessa? In what ways does she not? Why would Hendricks and Pekkanen choose an ex-wife and the younger wife to fulfill these roles? Does Vanessa have any other foils?