The Resort by Sara Ochs is a compelling, multi-layered novel that masterfully intertwines the lives of disparate characters against the backdrop of a seemingly idyllic resort. With a blend of mystery, historical fiction, and a touch of the supernatural, Ochs crafts a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, posing significant questions about memory, trauma, and redemption.

Set in the lush, tropical landscape of the Philippines, the story opens at the Heavenly Resort, a place that promises an escape from the burdens of the past and offers its guests unparalleled luxury and peace. However, beneath its perfect surface, the resort harbors deep-seated secrets that link back to the tumultuous periods of the country’s history, including World War II and the martial law era of the 1970s.

The narrative is cleverly constructed through multiple viewpoints, each chapter shifting perspectives among several key characters: Lila, a Filipino-American who comes to the resort to process her grief after losing her mother; Min-seo, a Korean detective whose vacation is interrupted by sudden flashes of what she believes are memories of her past life; and Paulo, a local who has worked at the resort for years, witnessing its transformations and the lingering spirits that roam its grounds. Their stories converge as strange occurrences and visions begin to surface, pulling each of them deeper into the resort's mysterious allure.

Ochs does an exceptional job in character development, sculpting individuals that are nuanced and relatable. Lila’s journey, marked by her grappling with cultural identity and personal loss, is particularly poignant. Her interactions with the other characters provide a rich ground for exploring themes of diaspora and the search for belonging. Similarly, Min-seo’s narrative tackles the often-complex journey of self-discovery, weaving in elements of the supernatural that serve to blur the lines between reality and fantasy.

Equally compelling is the setting of the resort itself, almost a character on its own. Ochs’s vivid descriptions of the lush landscapes, the serene beaches, and the imposing old structures of the resort are immersive, effectively transporting the reader to this exotic locale. However, it’s the darker, eerie undertones of these settings that resonate deeply, mirroring the inner turmoil of the characters and the historical traumas that the narrative seeks to confront.

The historical context of the novel is particularly well-handled. Ochs uses the events of WWII and the Marcos regime to delve into themes of historical trauma and the impact of collective memory on the present. The interplay between these historical events and the personal histories of the characters enriches the narrative, adding layers of complexity that challenge the reader to think deeply about the legacy of history on individual lives and societal structures.

The supernatural elements, while not overwhelming, are seamlessly integrated into the story, enhancing the mysterious atmosphere of the novel. These elements are used not merely for the sake of thrill but as devices to reveal deeper truths about the characters and their pasts. This subtle handling ensures that the story remains plausible and grounded, despite the ethereal whispers that echo through the plot.

On the technical side, Ochs's prose is elegant yet accessible, her pacing meticulous. She manages to maintain suspense and intrigue throughout the novel, keeping the reader hooked until the revelations of the final pages, which are both satisfying and thought-provoking. The intricacies of the plot are unwound skillfully, with revelations that are timed perfectly to maximize impact without overwhelming the reader.

In conclusion, The Resort by Sara Ochs is a richly woven tapestry of history, mystery, and exploration of deep emotional truths. It is a novel that dares to delve into dark corners of human experience while offering glimpses of hope and redemption. For those who enjoy novels that seamlessly blend different genres while tackling complex themes, Sara Ochs’s The Resort is a compelling read that will resonate long after the last page is turned. Through its haunting narrative and beautifully flawed characters, the novel not only entertains but also invites reflection on the shadows of history and the light of personal healing.