Katy Hays' Saltwater is a masterful blend of psychological thriller and family drama, set against the stunning backdrop of Capri. The novel delves into the complexities of familial relationships, the weight of past secrets, and the haunting nature of unresolved mysteries. Hays, known for her previous work The Cloisters, once again demonstrates her ability to weave a suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

The story begins with the mysterious death of Sarah Lingate in 1992, a tragedy that leaves her young daughter, Helen, motherless. The Lingate family, with their old-money status and opulent lifestyle, are immediately under suspicion. Yet, the death is ruled an accident, and the family returns to Capri annually, perhaps to convince themselves of this narrative. The plot thickens on the thirtieth anniversary of Sarah's death when the family discovers Sarah's necklace, a relic from the night she died, waiting for them at their villa. This discovery sets off a chain of events that threatens to unravel the tightly-knit fabric of the Lingate family.

Hays excels in creating a sense of place. The island of Capri, with its breathtaking cliffs and azure waters, is not just a backdrop but a character in itself. The island's beauty is juxtaposed with the dark secrets it harbors, creating a palpable tension that permeates the novel. The setting serves as a constant reminder of the duality of appearances and reality, a theme that is central to the story.

The characters in Saltwater are intricately developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Helen, the protagonist, is a compelling character. Her journey from a child overshadowed by her mother's death to a woman determined to uncover the truth is both poignant and empowering. Her relationship with Lorna Moreno, the family assistant, adds depth to the narrative. Lorna's disappearance and the subsequent reopening of the investigation into Sarah's death force Helen to confront the possibility that those she trusts may not be who they seem.

The Lingate family is a fascinating study in dysfunction. Richard, Helen's controlling father, is a man burdened by the weight of his family's legacy. Naomi, the rarely lucid aunt, and Marcus, the distant uncle, add layers of complexity to the family dynamic. Hays skillfully portrays the tension between the characters, highlighting the fragility of their unity. The supporting cast, including the circle of friends, visitors, and staff, are not mere background figures but integral to the unfolding mystery.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the theme of memory and perception. The resurfacing of Sarah's necklace acts as a catalyst, forcing the characters to confront their memories of that fateful night. Hays delves into the idea that memory is subjective, and the truth is often elusive. This theme is reminiscent of works like Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Tana French's In the Woods, where the past is a puzzle that the characters must piece together.

The pacing of Saltwater is expertly handled. Hays builds suspense gradually, allowing the tension to simmer before reaching a crescendo. The narrative is peppered with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. The revelation of long-hidden secrets is both shocking and satisfying, culminating in a climax that is both unexpected and inevitable.

Hays' prose is both elegant and evocative. Her descriptive passages bring the island of Capri to life, while her dialogue is sharp and insightful. The novel's structure, with its shifts between past and present, adds to the sense of mystery and intrigue. Hays' ability to maintain a balance between character development and plot progression is commendable.

In conclusion, Saltwater is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and family sagas alike. Katy Hays has crafted a novel that is both a gripping mystery and a poignant exploration of family and identity. The book's themes of memory, perception, and the enduring impact of the past resonate long after the final page is turned. Saltwater is a testament to Hays' skill as a storyteller and her ability to create a world that is as beautiful as it is haunting.

For those who enjoy stories that delve into the complexities of human relationships and the shadows of the past, Saltwater is a must-read. It stands alongside other great works in the genre, offering a fresh perspective on the timeless themes of love, loss, and redemption.