BOOK REVIEW – The Night Swim by Megan Goldin

Expected publication: August 4, 2020 by St. Martin’s Press

 

 

One of my favorite books this year!

A moving and powerful story!!

Rachel Krall is a former newspaper reporter whose true-crime podcast GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY turned into an overnight sensation.

“I’m Rachel Krall and this is Guilty or Not Guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box.”

Rachel has just arrived in Neapolis where she will be attending a trial that is the subject of the third season of Guilty or Not Guilty. The podcast will cover the trial as it plays out in court. Listeners will hear testimony and evidence just like the jurors. Rachel will also interview many people involved. It’s a lot of work, but Rachel is determined to make the third season a huge success.

Rachel is very surprised when she finds a letter on her car windshield. Although she’s now a household name, she tries to keep a low profile. True crime attracts all types of people, even the occasional psychopath. Using old photos and avoiding public or TV appearances has protected her. The letter is from a woman named Hannah. Hannah says that Rachel is the only person who can help her.

Hannah Stills was nine-years-old when her sixteen-year-old sister, Jenny died. Hannah never told anyone what really happened that night. Twenty-five years later, Jenny’s death feels just as raw as it did back then.

But one thing has changed. Hannah’s decided she won’t remain silent any longer.

Curiosity has always been Rachel’s kryptonite and Jenny’s case intrigues her. She wants to help Hannah find out exactly what happened to Jenny.

Will Rachel be able to do the podcast AND help Hannah get justice for her sister?

“This time, the truth will be heard.”

 

This psychological suspense novel delivers!!

Gut-wrenching at times, this story is packed with emotions, fantastic characters, and engaging story-lines that will haunt me for a long time. Some parts may be upsetting and/or triggering for some readers. However, I feel like the author handled sensitive issues with respect.

Raw and intense. The chapters alternate between Hannah and Rachel’s point of view as well as episodes from the podcast. It was well-paced and I found it easy to follow.

An exceptional, thought-provoking read from Megan Goldin. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!!

 

I’d like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.