Bernice

Bernice is the secret narrator and meta-author of the novel. She is based on the character of Bluebeard’s wife. She grew up in East Hampton where she lives with her parents and older sister, Naomi, who is very beautiful. When Ashton Adams, the tech billionaire, builds a mansion across the street from Bernice’s house, he sends a delicious cake to her family as an apology for blocking their view of the sea. He invites Naomi to one of his parties, but Naomi does not want to go because she thinks he is pretentious. However, Bernice begs Naomi to take her to the party, so Naomi agrees. At the party, Bernice lies to Ashton and tells him that Naomi is dating someone else. He takes Bernice on a tour of his mansion and kisses her, which is a surprise to her because she has always considered herself...