Trust and betrayal took the stage Friday with the opening of "Fiction" at the Capital Stage.

The play by Steven Dietz, follows a dramatic love triangle that took the audience on a trip through the characters pasts.

"Fiction" is about married writers Linda and Michael and how their lives were not what they seemed. Linda finds out she is dying and at her request, is allowed to read her husband's journals since he will read hers once she is gone. From there, the plot twists and turns, and as it moves between the past and the present their diaries reveal bits and pieces of their lives.

The play keeps the audience guessing, unfolding the truth with each scene.

I was expecting a more serious play but was caught off guard when the opening lines had me laughing. The humor throughout the script made "Fiction" enjoyable. But the play did have serious parts, including those regarding a women named Abby who emerged from the pages of Michael's diary. They made the action gripping and on the edge of your seat.

The language in "Fiction" was sophisticated while the lines were witty and thought provoking. It was written from the viewpoint of two published writers, so the metaphors and quotes from famous pieces of literature represent their creative world.

"Fiction" was directed by Peter Mohrmann. Janis Stevens and Eric Wheeler portray Linda and Michael, and Stephanie Gularte plays Abby. The actors show the struggle of reliving the past. The chemistry between the performers, especially between Stevens and Wheeler, made the play's themes of truth, betrayal and suspicion tangible.

In addition to "Fiction" being funny and entertaining, it provides a good look at relationships and human nature.

The play runs through Feb. 28, Thursdays through Sundays, at the Capital Stage, aboard the Riverboat Delta King at 1000 Front St.

Recommended for mature audiences.

Tickets are $12-$32.

Advance purchase recommended online or through the Box Office (916) 995-5464

Photo Credit: Charr Crail

Actors from left to right: Stephanie Gularte, Eric Wheeler, and Janis Stevens.