Katie Bishop’s High Season is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the murky waters of memory, truth, and the haunting shadows of the past. Set against the backdrop of the sun-drenched south of France, the novel weaves a complex narrative that spans two decades, exploring the intricate dynamics of family, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

The story begins with a haunting image: the lifeless body of seventeen-year-old Tamara Drayton floating in the pool of her family’s opulent mansion. This tragic event sets the stage for a tale that is as much about the past as it is about the present. The novel’s protagonist, Nina Drayton, was only six years old when she became the youngest person to testify in a French murder trial, accusing her babysitter, Josie Jackson, of murder. But as the years pass, Nina’s memories become unreliable, and the certainty of what she witnessed begins to unravel.

One of the novel’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of memory and its fallibility. Bishop masterfully captures the elusive nature of recollection, illustrating how memories can be distorted by time, trauma, and external influences. Nina’s journey to uncover the truth about that fateful night is not just a quest for justice but also a deeply personal exploration of her own identity and past. The author skillfully uses Nina’s fragmented memories to create a sense of tension and uncertainty, keeping readers on edge as they navigate the blurred lines between reality and perception.

The dual timeline structure of High Season adds depth and complexity to the narrative. By juxtaposing the events of the past with Nina’s present-day investigation, Bishop allows readers to piece together the puzzle alongside the protagonist. This narrative technique not only enhances the suspense but also provides a rich tapestry of character development. Through flashbacks and present-day interactions, we gain insight into the Drayton family’s dynamics, their secrets, and the impact of Tamara’s death on each member.

Nina emerges as a well-rounded and relatable character, her vulnerability and determination making her a compelling protagonist. Her struggle with her fading memories and the emotional toll of revisiting her past is portrayed with sensitivity and nuance. Bishop’s portrayal of Nina’s internal conflict is both poignant and realistic, capturing the complexity of grappling with a traumatic past while seeking closure and truth.

Blake Drayton, Nina’s twin brother, is another intriguing character whose development adds layers to the story. As the “golden boy” of the family, Blake’s outward perfection masks a deeper turmoil, and his relationship with Nina is fraught with tension and unresolved issues. Bishop deftly explores the sibling dynamic, highlighting the ways in which shared trauma can both unite and divide.

Josie Jackson, the accused babysitter, is a character shrouded in mystery. Her presence looms large over the narrative, and Bishop skillfully keeps readers guessing about her true nature and motivations. Is she a cold-blooded killer, or a victim of circumstance? The ambiguity surrounding Josie adds to the novel’s suspense, and her interactions with Nina are charged with an undercurrent of tension and unease.

The setting of the south of France plays a crucial role in the novel, its idyllic beauty contrasting sharply with the darkness of the events that unfold. Bishop’s vivid descriptions of the landscape create a sense of place that is both enchanting and foreboding, enhancing the novel’s atmospheric tension. The juxtaposition of the serene surroundings with the turmoil of the characters’ lives underscores the theme of appearances versus reality, a motif that runs throughout the book.

High Season is reminiscent of other psychological thrillers that explore the complexities of memory and truth, such as Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl and Paula Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train. Like these novels, Bishop’s work delves into the unreliable nature of perception and the ways in which personal narratives can be manipulated and distorted. However, High Season stands out for its nuanced exploration of familial relationships and the impact of trauma on memory, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

In conclusion, Katie Bishop’s High Season is a dark, tense, and thought-provoking novel that captivates from the first page to the last. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and exploration of memory and truth, it is a compelling read that will linger in the minds of readers long after they have turned the final page. Bishop’s ability to weave a complex narrative that is both suspenseful and emotionally resonant is a testament to her skill as a storyteller, making High Season a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.