To an outside observer, Daphne and Jackson Parrish have a perfect life. They seem to adore each other, they have a luxurious lifestyle of designer clothes and expensive residences, and they have two beautiful daughters. However, the reader quickly learns that their relationship is built on a foundation of abuse. Behind closed doors, Jackson physically, mentally, and emotionally assaults Daphne, then floods her with expensive gifts and kindness to keep her in a state of confusion. He turns his abuse to his daughters by belittling them and pitting them against each other, making them fight for his approval. Jackson controls every facet of their lives from calorie intake to what they read.

One of the main ironies of the novel is that Amber covets what she thinks they have and has no idea of the inner workings of the Parrish family. The disconnect between reality and appearance is what causes her to seduce Jackson in the first place, eventually condemning herself to a broken marriage filled with cruelty.

Amber hides her true self for most of the novel as she endeavors to gain access to the Parrish fortune. She utilizes her physical appearance to mask her true intentions, deceiving Jackson and nearly tricking Daphne.