Megan Goldin’s The Night Swim is a compelling and suspenseful psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story centers around Rachel Krall, a true-crime podcast host who becomes entangled in a real-life mystery when she is invited to cover a controversial rape trial in a small beach town. As Rachel investigates, she begins to unravel a deeper, more disturbing secret tied to the town’s past—one that connects to the tragic drowning of a teenager named Jenny.
Goldin expertly weaves together two storylines: Rachel’s present investigation and the tragic events from years prior. Through Rachel’s podcast transcripts, readers get glimpses of the trial’s developments, while Jenny’s haunting letters reveal the devastating impact of a town’s secrets. The dual narrative is well-crafted, and the tension between these two storylines builds seamlessly, keeping readers hooked.
Rachel herself is a complex protagonist, struggling with her own moral dilemmas while trying to uncover the truth. Her investigation, though, forces her to confront her own biases and the ethical implications of her career. The small-town setting adds to the mystery, giving the story an atmospheric quality as the characters and their motivations slowly come into focus.
While the book’s twists are well-executed, the pacing can sometimes feel uneven, especially in the final act. Despite that, The Night Swim is a gripping read that will resonate with fans of psychological thrillers. It’s a dark and thought-provoking exploration of justice, truth, and the hidden secrets we all carry.
