Water

Water is a reoccurring symbol of danger in the novel. Sam dies falling into a natural pool, Elin is attacked by Mark Hayler in the ocean, Elin is pushed into the plunge-pool by a stalker, and the final confrontation between Elin, Lucas, and Cecile takes place in the pool as the three fight for the knife.

Necklace

The necklace is a symbol of the past. Elin always wears Sam's necklace to remind her of him. In the end, she breaks the necklace and uses it as a weapon to stop Cecile.

Bracelets

The bracelets are a symbol of connection. The numbers on the bracelets link the German psychiatric patients with the current murders.

Mask

The masks are a symbol of fear and power. The doctors in the photographs are wearing masks in the photographs they take with the female patients. Cecile and Margot take the power...