Rocky

Rocky, the protagonist of the novel, is a complex and multifaceted character whose internal and external conflicts drive much of the narrative. Her real name is Rachel, but the nickname "Rocky" suggests a personality that is both resilient and turbulent, qualities that define her interactions and inner life throughout the story.

From the outset, Rocky’s character is marked by a mix of sharpness and vulnerability. Her tendency to exaggerate and dramatize situations, such as the plumbing issue in the rental cottage, indicates a person who often feels overwhelmed by her circumstances. This propensity for dramatization is also a manifestation of her deeper emotional struggles, as seen when she overreacts to Nick forgetting the swimsuits. These instances reveal a woman who feels the weight of responsibility and is quick to channel her frustrations outwardly.

Rocky's relationship with her husband Nick is central to her character development. Their interactions...