In "Saltwater," Jessica Andrews crafts a lyrical odyssey of self-discovery, chronicling the life of Lucy, a young woman from the north east of England with dreams larger than the confines of her upbringing. Amidst the backdrop of a working-class family, Lucy's aspirations propel her towards the vibrant, chaotic embrace of London, where university promises the transformation into a more polished, worldly version of herself. Yet, the reality of the capital—its unyielding pace, its unspoken codes—leaves her feeling more adrift than ever. Lucy's narrative, rich with the poetry of the mundane and the intensity of youth, navigates the tumultuous waters of identity, belonging, and the relentless quest for a place in the world. As Lucy's journey unfolds, Andrews deftly explores the complex tapestry of family, class, and the echoes of heritage that shape our paths. A pivotal retreat to her late grandfather's cottage in the stark, serene landscapes of Donegal becomes Lucy's crucible. In solitude, surrounded by the ghosts of her past and the rugged beauty of the Irish coast, Lucy embarks on a profound exploration of her roots. "Saltwater" is a compelling testament to the power of origins and the bittersweet symphony of growing up. Andrews' novel is an intimate, evocative tale of finding oneself by tracing the lines back home, where the heart's true compass lies.