What do you think?
Rate this book
Rachel Krall #1
The Night Swim
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Mystery & Thriller (2020)Ever since her true-crime podcast became an overnight sensation and set an innocent man free, Rachel Krall has become a household name—and the last hope for people seeking justice. But she’s used to being recognized for her voice, not her face. Which makes it all the more unsettling when she finds a note on her car windshield, addressed to her, begging for help.
The new season of Rachel's podcast has brought her to a small town being torn apart by a devastating rape trial. A local golden boy, a swimmer destined for Olympic greatness, has been accused of raping the beloved granddaughter of the police chief. Under pressure to make Season 3 a success, Rachel throws herself into her investigation—but the mysterious letters keep coming. Someone is following her, and she won’t stop until Rachel finds out what happened to her sister twenty-five years ago. Officially, Jenny Stills tragically drowned, but the letters insist she was murdered—and when Rachel starts asking questions, nobody in town wants to answer. The past and present start to collide as Rachel uncovers startling connections between the two cases—and a revelation that will change the course of the trial and the lives of everyone involved.
Electrifying and propulsive, The Night Swim asks: What is the price of a reputation? Can a small town ever right the wrongs of its past? And what really happened to Jenny?
The new season of Rachel's podcast has brought her to a small town being torn apart by a devastating rape trial. A local golden boy, a swimmer destined for Olympic greatness, has been accused of raping the beloved granddaughter of the police chief. Under pressure to make Season 3 a success, Rachel throws herself into her investigation—but the mysterious letters keep coming. Someone is following her, and she won’t stop until Rachel finds out what happened to her sister twenty-five years ago. Officially, Jenny Stills tragically drowned, but the letters insist she was murdered—and when Rachel starts asking questions, nobody in town wants to answer. The past and present start to collide as Rachel uncovers startling connections between the two cases—and a revelation that will change the course of the trial and the lives of everyone involved.
Electrifying and propulsive, The Night Swim asks: What is the price of a reputation? Can a small town ever right the wrongs of its past? And what really happened to Jenny?
341 pages, Hardcover
First published August 4, 2020
About the author
Megan Goldin
6 books4,233 followersMEGAN GOLDIN worked as a correspondent for Reuters and other media outlets where she covered war, peace, international terrorism and financial meltdowns in the Middle East and Asia. She is now based in Melbourne, Australia where she raises three sons and is a foster mum to Labrador puppies learning to be guide dogs. She is the author of The Escape Room, The Night Swim, and Stay Awake.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 13,014 reviews
December 5, 2022
Wow! Agghhjjkd ! Oh sorry I just blabbered meaningless letters because I’m shaken to the core, carrying my stupid face looked like suffering from 30 botox syringe injections. If I was a real celebrity, they can carry me to the Wax Museum and position me next to Queen Elizabeth. I looked like a statue with no facial expression (My face looks like Nicole Kidman right now! And I always told no to esthetic surgeries! Now I'm reminding you daughter of a cyborg. Dammit!)
Of course I’m giving five gazillion stars ! This is kind of book steals your heart, pulling your hands like a magnet and as soon as you grab it into your hands, you never want to put it down even though it’s doomsday and zombies from World War Z knocking out your door!
What should I tell the brilliant author of Escape Room? ( Thanks to her, I had grey cells transplant operation after reading that book because I killed the old ones to solve the mystery! You know how it feels there is a smoke coming from your head. Thankfully Megan Godin taught me by writing mind bending, crazy train riding story)
I could say: Brava! Congratulations! Felicidades! Congratulazioni! Toutes nos felicitations! Herzliche glückwünsche!
I reset my brain by restarting it and fixed my language settings. Oh yes! I can write in English again! No more Gibberish!
The things I have to emphasize about this book:
Author’s dual POVED writing was amazing. Rachel and Hannah’s narrations are captivating. Especially the podcast parts of the book make you devour all those pages, cancel your entire schedule, call sick, go to your home and finish this book under your duvet which I already did!!!!!
I loved Rachel and I wish she would be real podcast host. ( I’m already addictive to Serial, Criminal, Up and Vanished. If you’re die-hard fans like me and haven’t listened to them before, I highly recommend to you.) As a host Rachel is brave, curious, a workaholic, exactly married with her job, analytic, doing her best to stay objective. We only learned she was divorced but as far as we see, she is only connection in the real world is her producer. She is tough, strong, smart heroine we’re looking for and I’m so sure after reading this book, you’re gonna want her back, chasing new crime stories.
She comes the small town of Neapolis to dig more about town’s golden boy, Olympic swimmer Scott Blair ‘s rape case. He is accused of raping 16 year old girl who is also the granddaughter of police chief. (If she wasn’t police chief’s granddaughter, maybe there won’t be any trial because town’s people are real good to bury the facts and reject to talk about them.)
When Rachel finishes her lunch break at a random diner, she finds an envelope on her car. A girl named Hannah who insists that her sister Jenny Stills (even though the police reports show she’s been drowned) has been murdered 25 years ago at the very same time and she needs help of Rachel.
At first Rachel has no intention to take the case but she feels Hannah’s existence like a shadow following her everywhere, living more notes. She is intrigued. She cannot help herself. That’s her in blood. And she realizes there are so many inconsistencies about dead sister’s case. So Hannah might be right. And guess what: both cases could be connected.
Now I’m stopping and let you read this book! I have to tell there is stunning, heart wrenching, soul shaking ending is coming up!!!!
I think there will be sequels ( at least ending gave me this impression and interestiny I wanted to know Mitch Alkins’ back story and what kind of case forced him to come back to his hometown and change his profession.)
Overall: I. LOVED.IT. SO.SO.SO.MUCH.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St.Martin’s Press for sending me the ARC COPY of best thriller of 2020 in exchange my honest review. And Megan Godin, I fell in love with two of your books. Please keep on creating!
blog
instagram
facebook
twitter
Of course I’m giving five gazillion stars ! This is kind of book steals your heart, pulling your hands like a magnet and as soon as you grab it into your hands, you never want to put it down even though it’s doomsday and zombies from World War Z knocking out your door!
What should I tell the brilliant author of Escape Room? ( Thanks to her, I had grey cells transplant operation after reading that book because I killed the old ones to solve the mystery! You know how it feels there is a smoke coming from your head. Thankfully Megan Godin taught me by writing mind bending, crazy train riding story)
I could say: Brava! Congratulations! Felicidades! Congratulazioni! Toutes nos felicitations! Herzliche glückwünsche!
I reset my brain by restarting it and fixed my language settings. Oh yes! I can write in English again! No more Gibberish!
The things I have to emphasize about this book:
Author’s dual POVED writing was amazing. Rachel and Hannah’s narrations are captivating. Especially the podcast parts of the book make you devour all those pages, cancel your entire schedule, call sick, go to your home and finish this book under your duvet which I already did!!!!!
I loved Rachel and I wish she would be real podcast host. ( I’m already addictive to Serial, Criminal, Up and Vanished. If you’re die-hard fans like me and haven’t listened to them before, I highly recommend to you.) As a host Rachel is brave, curious, a workaholic, exactly married with her job, analytic, doing her best to stay objective. We only learned she was divorced but as far as we see, she is only connection in the real world is her producer. She is tough, strong, smart heroine we’re looking for and I’m so sure after reading this book, you’re gonna want her back, chasing new crime stories.
She comes the small town of Neapolis to dig more about town’s golden boy, Olympic swimmer Scott Blair ‘s rape case. He is accused of raping 16 year old girl who is also the granddaughter of police chief. (If she wasn’t police chief’s granddaughter, maybe there won’t be any trial because town’s people are real good to bury the facts and reject to talk about them.)
When Rachel finishes her lunch break at a random diner, she finds an envelope on her car. A girl named Hannah who insists that her sister Jenny Stills (even though the police reports show she’s been drowned) has been murdered 25 years ago at the very same time and she needs help of Rachel.
At first Rachel has no intention to take the case but she feels Hannah’s existence like a shadow following her everywhere, living more notes. She is intrigued. She cannot help herself. That’s her in blood. And she realizes there are so many inconsistencies about dead sister’s case. So Hannah might be right. And guess what: both cases could be connected.
Now I’m stopping and let you read this book! I have to tell there is stunning, heart wrenching, soul shaking ending is coming up!!!!
I think there will be sequels ( at least ending gave me this impression and interestiny I wanted to know Mitch Alkins’ back story and what kind of case forced him to come back to his hometown and change his profession.)
Overall: I. LOVED.IT. SO.SO.SO.MUCH.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St.Martin’s Press for sending me the ARC COPY of best thriller of 2020 in exchange my honest review. And Megan Godin, I fell in love with two of your books. Please keep on creating!
blog
April 23, 2020
Once again I'm finding myself frustrated at the way that any book with a lick of mystery is automatically dubbed a nail-biting thriller. If this book had been marketed as general crime fiction, or a character driven mystery, then I would have saved it for the appropriate mood, but alas, I picked this up expecting a fast paced, twisty read, much like The Escape Room.
The Night Swim is an important read, one that delves into the heavy topic of rape culture and what that means for our generation versus previous ones. It's a courtroom drama mixed with pod cast media which equals heavy emotions and disturbing content. If rape is something that triggers you, then I would give this one a hard pass. For me, I felt like the author handled the subject with care and really explored the subject in respectful form.
Overall, if you enjoy slow burning mysteries with dual POVs and timelines, and can handle graphic, disturbing content, give The Night Swim a try for yourself.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
The Night Swim is an important read, one that delves into the heavy topic of rape culture and what that means for our generation versus previous ones. It's a courtroom drama mixed with pod cast media which equals heavy emotions and disturbing content. If rape is something that triggers you, then I would give this one a hard pass. For me, I felt like the author handled the subject with care and really explored the subject in respectful form.
Overall, if you enjoy slow burning mysteries with dual POVs and timelines, and can handle graphic, disturbing content, give The Night Swim a try for yourself.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
April 26, 2024
It's time to rejoice, for Megan Goldin has done it again!!
The Night Swim follows Rachel Krall, the host and creator of a hugely successful True Crime podcast.
During the first season of her show, evidence Rachel procured was actually able to help free an innocent man, making her a household name.
With Rachel's new reputation as a tireless truth seeker, many people reach out to her with cases they want her to investigate.
A lot of these people feel they have no other options when searching for justice for a friend, or loved one; that the system has failed them in some way and Rachel is their last resort.
These letters for help generally come in the form of email, or occasionally through traditional post. Therefore, Rachel is surprised when a letter ends up stuck under the windshield wiper of her car at a remote rest stop.
How would someone even have recognized her? People generally know her voice, not her face. Is she being followed?
When she receives that first note, Rachel is on her way to Neapolis, where a high profile rape case is currently underway, dividing the small coastal town.
For the latest season of the podcast, Rachel will be looking into the background of the case, while also attending, and reporting from, the trial.
It's a classic case of he-said versus she-said, with the victim being the granddaughter of the police chief, and the accused perpetrator being the golden boy, champion swimmer; a local celebrity.
As Rachel throws herself into this case, the mysterious letters continue to show up in unexpected places, including her hotel room.
The author of the letters, a young woman named Hannah, also from Neapolis, pleads with Rachel to look into the death of her sister, Jenny, 25-years earlier.
Rachel admittedly finds Jenny's case interesting. A reported accidental drowning, Hannah insists that foul play was involved.
Y'all, I loved this book! The format chosen to tell this story is absolute perfection.
We get multiple perspectives, past and present timelines, as well as full episodes of Rachel's podcast.
The way that Goldin was able to weave these two mysteries together was flawless. I found myself so invested in both the current rape trial and the historical perspectives of Jenny and Hannah.
I was blessed enough to have received both an e-copy, and an audio copy, of this from the publisher to read and review. I started off switching back and forth between the two, but ultimately stuck with the audiobook.
The audiobook is so well done. The podcast chapters are incredible!
I had to keep reminding myself I wasn't actually listening to a podcast, that it was fictional. It's that believable.
I was already a fan of Goldin after the release of The Escape Room last year, but this one takes it to a whole new level.
Megan Goldin is an absolute autobuy author for me!
In addition to the fabulous presentation of this story, I was also impressed with the commentary regarding rape culture and the treatment of victims of rape and sexual assault.
I love when a Thriller can not only be surprising and immersive, but also have something to say on real world issues. I think it opens up so many great discussions that are important and impactful.
In short, if you have not picked up The Night Swim yet, please do so. I particularly recommend the audiobook, although the story is fantastic regardless of the medium.
A heartfelt thank you to the publisher, St. Martin's Press, for providing me with the opportunity to read this early. It will definitely be making my Favorites List for 2020!!!
The Night Swim follows Rachel Krall, the host and creator of a hugely successful True Crime podcast.
During the first season of her show, evidence Rachel procured was actually able to help free an innocent man, making her a household name.
With Rachel's new reputation as a tireless truth seeker, many people reach out to her with cases they want her to investigate.
A lot of these people feel they have no other options when searching for justice for a friend, or loved one; that the system has failed them in some way and Rachel is their last resort.
These letters for help generally come in the form of email, or occasionally through traditional post. Therefore, Rachel is surprised when a letter ends up stuck under the windshield wiper of her car at a remote rest stop.
How would someone even have recognized her? People generally know her voice, not her face. Is she being followed?
When she receives that first note, Rachel is on her way to Neapolis, where a high profile rape case is currently underway, dividing the small coastal town.
For the latest season of the podcast, Rachel will be looking into the background of the case, while also attending, and reporting from, the trial.
It's a classic case of he-said versus she-said, with the victim being the granddaughter of the police chief, and the accused perpetrator being the golden boy, champion swimmer; a local celebrity.
As Rachel throws herself into this case, the mysterious letters continue to show up in unexpected places, including her hotel room.
The author of the letters, a young woman named Hannah, also from Neapolis, pleads with Rachel to look into the death of her sister, Jenny, 25-years earlier.
Rachel admittedly finds Jenny's case interesting. A reported accidental drowning, Hannah insists that foul play was involved.
Y'all, I loved this book! The format chosen to tell this story is absolute perfection.
We get multiple perspectives, past and present timelines, as well as full episodes of Rachel's podcast.
The way that Goldin was able to weave these two mysteries together was flawless. I found myself so invested in both the current rape trial and the historical perspectives of Jenny and Hannah.
I was blessed enough to have received both an e-copy, and an audio copy, of this from the publisher to read and review. I started off switching back and forth between the two, but ultimately stuck with the audiobook.
The audiobook is so well done. The podcast chapters are incredible!
I had to keep reminding myself I wasn't actually listening to a podcast, that it was fictional. It's that believable.
I was already a fan of Goldin after the release of The Escape Room last year, but this one takes it to a whole new level.
Megan Goldin is an absolute autobuy author for me!
In addition to the fabulous presentation of this story, I was also impressed with the commentary regarding rape culture and the treatment of victims of rape and sexual assault.
I love when a Thriller can not only be surprising and immersive, but also have something to say on real world issues. I think it opens up so many great discussions that are important and impactful.
In short, if you have not picked up The Night Swim yet, please do so. I particularly recommend the audiobook, although the story is fantastic regardless of the medium.
A heartfelt thank you to the publisher, St. Martin's Press, for providing me with the opportunity to read this early. It will definitely be making my Favorites List for 2020!!!
August 7, 2023
Two girls, twenty five years apart. Raped and beaten by a group of guys or one guy, their reputations, spirits, lives destroyed by being blamed for what was done to them. The first girl ended up dead, unable to defend herself in public, from the rumors. The second girl speaks out about what was done to her and her torment continues, as public blame turns towards her.
Rachel Krall's popular podcast "Guilty or Not Guilty" is beginning it's third year by featuring the trial of a college swimmer who is accused of raping "K". The town is divided as the young man is from the most prominent family in town while the girl is the granddaughter of the former police chief. Many blame the girl for ruining the future of the young man, with her accusations. The girl's life is forever changed because she can never be the same person after being allegedly brutally raped over and over and then publicly brutalized again, for speaking out.
Before Rachel arrives in town she is getting notes from Hannah, the sister of Jenny, who was raped and drowned twenty five years ago. Hannah's sister never got to fight back but instead, the guys who attacked her spread vicious stories about her and her virtue, all lies, but because Jenny was from a very poor family, the rumors were treated as truth. Hannah is sure that Jenny was murdered and she needs Rachel's help to prove it. The stories intertwine in this quick and easy read.
Publication Aug 4, 2020
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Macmillan and Edelweiss/NetGalley for this ARC.
Rachel Krall's popular podcast "Guilty or Not Guilty" is beginning it's third year by featuring the trial of a college swimmer who is accused of raping "K". The town is divided as the young man is from the most prominent family in town while the girl is the granddaughter of the former police chief. Many blame the girl for ruining the future of the young man, with her accusations. The girl's life is forever changed because she can never be the same person after being allegedly brutally raped over and over and then publicly brutalized again, for speaking out.
Before Rachel arrives in town she is getting notes from Hannah, the sister of Jenny, who was raped and drowned twenty five years ago. Hannah's sister never got to fight back but instead, the guys who attacked her spread vicious stories about her and her virtue, all lies, but because Jenny was from a very poor family, the rumors were treated as truth. Hannah is sure that Jenny was murdered and she needs Rachel's help to prove it. The stories intertwine in this quick and easy read.
Publication Aug 4, 2020
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Macmillan and Edelweiss/NetGalley for this ARC.
January 27, 2020
RAW AND REAL
The Night Swim is an emotional and unsettling psychological thriller about a rape trial in a small town.
On her way to Neapolis, North Carolina; podcast host Rachel Krall, finds a note on the dashboard of her car pleading for help. The writer of the note, Hannah, believes her sister was murdered 25 years ago and needs Rachel’s help to identify the murderer(s). Rachel is wary of helping Hannah, but soon gets pulled in to her story as she leaves more and more letters for Rachel to read about what happened to her sister, Jenny. At the same time, Rachel begins attending the trial of a famous swimmer accused of raping a 16-year-old girl. The two cases converge, leading to a sickening and sad revelation.
The Night Swim isn’t easy to read. Goldin spends a good deal of time examining how a rape trial plays out in the courtroom, including jury games and victim shaming. The rapes of two female characters are also shared. It is heavy, dark, and emotional to read. There were several times that I had to put this book down to take a mental health break. At the same time, I was completely captivated and appalled by Jenny and Kelly’s stories. Goldin handles the harsh topic of rape with sensitivity and honesty.
While reading The Night Swim I had to keep reminding myself that this is the author who wrote The Escape Room--this book is the complete opposite of that one. For me, The Escape Room was pure entertainment; whereas, The Night Swim serves as a strong message for how society treats rape victims. There were a few flaws, but I am not going to get into them. I was pleased with the ending and hope to see another installment of Rachel in the future.
I received an ARC of this book from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Night Swim is an emotional and unsettling psychological thriller about a rape trial in a small town.
On her way to Neapolis, North Carolina; podcast host Rachel Krall, finds a note on the dashboard of her car pleading for help. The writer of the note, Hannah, believes her sister was murdered 25 years ago and needs Rachel’s help to identify the murderer(s). Rachel is wary of helping Hannah, but soon gets pulled in to her story as she leaves more and more letters for Rachel to read about what happened to her sister, Jenny. At the same time, Rachel begins attending the trial of a famous swimmer accused of raping a 16-year-old girl. The two cases converge, leading to a sickening and sad revelation.
The Night Swim isn’t easy to read. Goldin spends a good deal of time examining how a rape trial plays out in the courtroom, including jury games and victim shaming. The rapes of two female characters are also shared. It is heavy, dark, and emotional to read. There were several times that I had to put this book down to take a mental health break. At the same time, I was completely captivated and appalled by Jenny and Kelly’s stories. Goldin handles the harsh topic of rape with sensitivity and honesty.
While reading The Night Swim I had to keep reminding myself that this is the author who wrote The Escape Room--this book is the complete opposite of that one. For me, The Escape Room was pure entertainment; whereas, The Night Swim serves as a strong message for how society treats rape victims. There were a few flaws, but I am not going to get into them. I was pleased with the ending and hope to see another installment of Rachel in the future.
I received an ARC of this book from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2020
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
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.
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.
December 15, 2023
Second time Reading July 2020 Review (4 Stars)
I have to say I enjoyed it a little more the second time around, and I had forgotten some of the twist. I still think the first part moved slowly, but the ending makes it worth the slow moving of the beginning. I know part of the ending because I remember it for the first time reading, but it was still really good. I really enjoyed it. I think this is a solid thriller.
First Review Read March 2020 (4 stars)
I found this book to move very slow for the first 200 pages, but then the last 150 pages had so much going on and fast moving. I did not see it ending like it did. It is a great thriller, and I really liked it. Also have to say I love the cover of this book. I won an arc of this book from a goodreads giveaway, but this review is 100% my own opinion. I want to re-read this before it comes out, and if I do I will update my review.
I have to say I enjoyed it a little more the second time around, and I had forgotten some of the twist. I still think the first part moved slowly, but the ending makes it worth the slow moving of the beginning. I know part of the ending because I remember it for the first time reading, but it was still really good. I really enjoyed it. I think this is a solid thriller.
First Review Read March 2020 (4 stars)
I found this book to move very slow for the first 200 pages, but then the last 150 pages had so much going on and fast moving. I did not see it ending like it did. It is a great thriller, and I really liked it. Also have to say I love the cover of this book. I won an arc of this book from a goodreads giveaway, but this review is 100% my own opinion. I want to re-read this before it comes out, and if I do I will update my review.
September 7, 2020
Rachel Krall is the host of a true crime podcast.
"I'm Rachel Krall and this is Guilty or not guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box."
Hannah is stalking Rachel. She is leaving her notes wherever she goes. There are two different cases. One is an unsolved murder that happened 25 years ago and then the second case is set in the present, two different timelines.
There is a big rape trial going on in Rachel's home town in Neopolis. The accused is Scott Blair known as the golden boy. who is a great swimmer, destined to be in the swimming Olympics.
The past and present start to collide as Rachel uncovers connections between the two cases that will change the course of the trial and the lives of every one involved.
I loved The Escape Room by this author and I loved this one a lot better. This was a sensational success! I am not a big podcast fan but I was a big fan of this one. It was just so different. It is a legal thriller plus a mystery. It shocked me! I loved the short chapters. It made it a fast paced read. I loved the courtroom drama. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I thought it was an entertaining read. I felt all the emotions in this one and loved the twists. I thought the characterization was done very well. I just loved Rachel Krall's character.
This book is not for the faint of heart. Raping and Murder are just hard subject matter to read. But I felt that the author did a great job with this and I didn't think that it was graphic. It was done very well.
I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and the author for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"I'm Rachel Krall and this is Guilty or not guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box."
Hannah is stalking Rachel. She is leaving her notes wherever she goes. There are two different cases. One is an unsolved murder that happened 25 years ago and then the second case is set in the present, two different timelines.
There is a big rape trial going on in Rachel's home town in Neopolis. The accused is Scott Blair known as the golden boy. who is a great swimmer, destined to be in the swimming Olympics.
The past and present start to collide as Rachel uncovers connections between the two cases that will change the course of the trial and the lives of every one involved.
I loved The Escape Room by this author and I loved this one a lot better. This was a sensational success! I am not a big podcast fan but I was a big fan of this one. It was just so different. It is a legal thriller plus a mystery. It shocked me! I loved the short chapters. It made it a fast paced read. I loved the courtroom drama. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I thought it was an entertaining read. I felt all the emotions in this one and loved the twists. I thought the characterization was done very well. I just loved Rachel Krall's character.
This book is not for the faint of heart. Raping and Murder are just hard subject matter to read. But I felt that the author did a great job with this and I didn't think that it was graphic. It was done very well.
I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and the author for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2020
4.5 Stars
Rachel Krall is known for her voice. She has a true crime podcast with a wide following. People know her voice- not her face, so when she finds a note under her windshield wiper, she is a little unsettled. The note is asking Rachel to investigate a listener's older sister's death twenty-five years earlier. Not an easy feat, as Rachel is in the small town of Neapolis , to cover a rape trial. A local swimmer bound for Olympic greatness has been accused of raping a local high school student. Rachel throws herself into covering the trial and sets about interviewing as many people as she can on both sides of the trial, all the while receiving letters about Jenny Stiles death years earlier. Jenny Stiles was believed to have drowned but her younger sister, Hannah is determined that the truth come out. She knows that her sister was murdered and wants the truth to be known. Intrigued Rachel begins to ask some questions and learns that small towns have secrets, secrets and long memories, and there are still some around who would prefer that the past remain in the past.
Whew! Another solid book by Megan Goldin. I loved the Author's previous book, The Escape Room and had to read this one right away. It did not disappoint. I was hooked from page one. I loved how this book was about reputation - how they are formed, how people can make them for you and the damaging consequences when people begin to become identified by their "reputation". This book also shows the divide between the haves and have-nots, how money and influence also affect and can pre-determine how you are viewed in society. But in the end, this book comes down to the brutality of rape.
There are two mysteries in this book and the Author blended their stories beautifully. The transitions between the past and present were flawless. Both stories were interesting, gut wrenching and intriguing. There is a lot to discuss with this book - rape, how blame is assigned, the treatment of rape survivors, court testimony, pod casts, reputations, guilt, silence, etc.
I found this book to be captivating, hard to put down, intriguing and thought provoking. Plus, I am really hoping that this will become a series - don't know if it will but would love if it was. Either way, this was a fabulous book and I look forward to more books by this author in the future.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Press and Edelweiss in exchange for and honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rachel Krall is known for her voice. She has a true crime podcast with a wide following. People know her voice- not her face, so when she finds a note under her windshield wiper, she is a little unsettled. The note is asking Rachel to investigate a listener's older sister's death twenty-five years earlier. Not an easy feat, as Rachel is in the small town of Neapolis , to cover a rape trial. A local swimmer bound for Olympic greatness has been accused of raping a local high school student. Rachel throws herself into covering the trial and sets about interviewing as many people as she can on both sides of the trial, all the while receiving letters about Jenny Stiles death years earlier. Jenny Stiles was believed to have drowned but her younger sister, Hannah is determined that the truth come out. She knows that her sister was murdered and wants the truth to be known. Intrigued Rachel begins to ask some questions and learns that small towns have secrets, secrets and long memories, and there are still some around who would prefer that the past remain in the past.
Whew! Another solid book by Megan Goldin. I loved the Author's previous book, The Escape Room and had to read this one right away. It did not disappoint. I was hooked from page one. I loved how this book was about reputation - how they are formed, how people can make them for you and the damaging consequences when people begin to become identified by their "reputation". This book also shows the divide between the haves and have-nots, how money and influence also affect and can pre-determine how you are viewed in society. But in the end, this book comes down to the brutality of rape.
There are two mysteries in this book and the Author blended their stories beautifully. The transitions between the past and present were flawless. Both stories were interesting, gut wrenching and intriguing. There is a lot to discuss with this book - rape, how blame is assigned, the treatment of rape survivors, court testimony, pod casts, reputations, guilt, silence, etc.
I found this book to be captivating, hard to put down, intriguing and thought provoking. Plus, I am really hoping that this will become a series - don't know if it will but would love if it was. Either way, this was a fabulous book and I look forward to more books by this author in the future.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Press and Edelweiss in exchange for and honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 14, 2020
Hands down one of the best books I have read this year. I am floored, rendered speechless. I totally underestimated just how much I would love this book. Yes, it was that good.
The past and present collide in this small town when the town hero is accused of raping a 16 year old girl. Olympic swimmer hopeful Scott Blair is the all American boy. Kelly Moore has family connections that run deep in the town. Who to believe? There were two of them on the beach that night, only those two know the truth and one is lying.
This has all the small town feels...the good and the bad. Everyone knew each other...which was the good news and also everyone knew each other.... which was the bad news. This town has some dark secrets that have been hidden for many years and they are starting to resurface with the current trial. It was much more than I bargained for. I was completely immersed with the past and the present.
This book tore my heart apart many times as I let my mind drift to what it must be like- not only for a victim of this heinous crime, but a 16 year victim on top of that. A crime that has so much judgement that goes along with it. You never hear- well she asked to be murdered. Yet you do hear this about rape. The subject matter, coupled along with the mystery had me glued to the pages.
I loved Megan Goldin's previous book The Escape Room, but I loved this one even more. I would LOVE to tag along on another season of Rachel's podcast and see what she comes up with next!
Thank you so much to St. Martin's Press for inviting me along on this blog tour. Megan Goldin- you did it again!! This is one of my favorite books this year...and I have read some great ones!
The past and present collide in this small town when the town hero is accused of raping a 16 year old girl. Olympic swimmer hopeful Scott Blair is the all American boy. Kelly Moore has family connections that run deep in the town. Who to believe? There were two of them on the beach that night, only those two know the truth and one is lying.
This has all the small town feels...the good and the bad. Everyone knew each other...which was the good news and also everyone knew each other.... which was the bad news. This town has some dark secrets that have been hidden for many years and they are starting to resurface with the current trial. It was much more than I bargained for. I was completely immersed with the past and the present.
This book tore my heart apart many times as I let my mind drift to what it must be like- not only for a victim of this heinous crime, but a 16 year victim on top of that. A crime that has so much judgement that goes along with it. You never hear- well she asked to be murdered. Yet you do hear this about rape. The subject matter, coupled along with the mystery had me glued to the pages.
I loved Megan Goldin's previous book The Escape Room, but I loved this one even more. I would LOVE to tag along on another season of Rachel's podcast and see what she comes up with next!
Thank you so much to St. Martin's Press for inviting me along on this blog tour. Megan Goldin- you did it again!! This is one of my favorite books this year...and I have read some great ones!
August 10, 2020
This was not an easy read. This book was so good, but it was definitely difficult to stomach at times. This book deals heavily with a rape trial and the harsh and unfair way society treats rape victims and how toxic rape culture is. In this story we follow this girl Rachel who runs this super successful true crime podcast, and on this season of her podcast she decides to cover an active rape trail that's happening in a small town. This young dude who was going to be a competitive swimmer in the Olympics is accused of raping this girl Kelly. As you can imagine the small town is devastated for this 'poor young man' and how his 'future has been taken away from him' and all that kind of bull shit while Kelly is slut shamed. We also follow this girl Hannah, who's sister Jenny was killed twenty years ago, and they still don't know exactly what happened to her. Hannah is writing Rachel letters asking her to talk about Jenny's case in her podcast with the hopes that they will re-open her case.
This book is so sad because it talks about how not only do rape victims get assaulted once when they are raped, but they are assaulted again and again when they have to go through this process of re-experiencing it in the courtroom. The emotional trauma it takes on a woman to recount these experiences is just so awful. And for her body to be put under a microscope by all these doctors, and for her to be judged by everyone she knows, it's truly heartbreaking.
We are following two separate timelines in this book, and I found the chapters in the present day int the courtroom to be much more interesting than the chapters in the past with Hannah talking about her sister. I found myself wanting to get back to the chapters in the courtroom because they were written so well and they were getting such a visceral angry reaction from me.
It's always hard for me to read about rape in books, but this book took it to another extreme for me, this was really challenging to read and it genuinely made me so sad. But this book is crafted so beautifully and there are a few surprising plot twists. But please know if rape is a trigger for you to read this book with caution.
This book is so sad because it talks about how not only do rape victims get assaulted once when they are raped, but they are assaulted again and again when they have to go through this process of re-experiencing it in the courtroom. The emotional trauma it takes on a woman to recount these experiences is just so awful. And for her body to be put under a microscope by all these doctors, and for her to be judged by everyone she knows, it's truly heartbreaking.
We are following two separate timelines in this book, and I found the chapters in the present day int the courtroom to be much more interesting than the chapters in the past with Hannah talking about her sister. I found myself wanting to get back to the chapters in the courtroom because they were written so well and they were getting such a visceral angry reaction from me.
It's always hard for me to read about rape in books, but this book took it to another extreme for me, this was really challenging to read and it genuinely made me so sad. But this book is crafted so beautifully and there are a few surprising plot twists. But please know if rape is a trigger for you to read this book with caution.
October 8, 2020
reading vlog https://youtu.be/eZJy7D_2HmQ
join the buzzword readathon https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
join the buzzword readathon https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
January 23, 2020
This was not an easy read as it deals with rape, reputations, and influence. There are two mysteries to follow that are twenty five years apart and come together through the producer of a crime podcast, Rachel Krall.
Rachel's current crime podcast involves a small town and the rape of a high school student. While covering this trial, Rachel starts receiving mysterious letters from a sister seeking justice. These two mysteries will begin to evolve, connect, and shock.
The courtroom scenes were my favorite part of the book. All the drama, calling witnesses and intense moments.
The author does a great job weaving the two mysteries together. Thought provoking and emotional story.
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my review copy. OUT August 2020
Rachel's current crime podcast involves a small town and the rape of a high school student. While covering this trial, Rachel starts receiving mysterious letters from a sister seeking justice. These two mysteries will begin to evolve, connect, and shock.
The courtroom scenes were my favorite part of the book. All the drama, calling witnesses and intense moments.
The author does a great job weaving the two mysteries together. Thought provoking and emotional story.
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my review copy. OUT August 2020
August 7, 2020
This book took me completely by surprise. Not what I expected at all…so much more than a thriller.
Rachel Krall has her own highly successful crime-oriented podcast. Recently she’s highlighted several past murder trials. Even getting one conviction overturned.
Now Rachel has switched direction, focusing on a different crime and accompanying trial to highlight in her latest podcast. The crime of rape. In a small coastal town a trial is about to proceed. The defendant, a teenage boy with dreams of swimming in the Olympics. The survivor of the crime a young 15 year old girl. Each will present their side of the story in court. Then, it’s finally up to the jury to decide. And of course, those listening to the podcast to express their myriad of opinions.
Meanwhile, something else has drawn Rachel’s attention. She’s been receiving mysterious messages from the sister of a girl killed in this very town years ago. Her senses tell her there’s a story here. Can she help root out the truth after all these years?
This was a powerful read. It shows the stark ugliness behind rape and the repercussions involved when a woman is brave enough to come forth. Perhaps the most difficult…facing the defendant and his lawyer in a courtroom. Having to re-tell and relive the nightmare. Hiding from the viciousness of public opinion as everyone has their own idea of who is to blame and wants their voice heard. It’s like being victimized twice.
I read this book in only a few sittings and still cannot stop thinking about it.
This is the second book I’ve read of Megan Goldin. It was such a deviation from her previous novel. I can’t wait to see what direction she goes next!
A buddy read with Susanne that made for excellent discussions!
Thank you to Edelweiss and St. Martin's Press for an ARC to read and review
Rachel Krall has her own highly successful crime-oriented podcast. Recently she’s highlighted several past murder trials. Even getting one conviction overturned.
Now Rachel has switched direction, focusing on a different crime and accompanying trial to highlight in her latest podcast. The crime of rape. In a small coastal town a trial is about to proceed. The defendant, a teenage boy with dreams of swimming in the Olympics. The survivor of the crime a young 15 year old girl. Each will present their side of the story in court. Then, it’s finally up to the jury to decide. And of course, those listening to the podcast to express their myriad of opinions.
Meanwhile, something else has drawn Rachel’s attention. She’s been receiving mysterious messages from the sister of a girl killed in this very town years ago. Her senses tell her there’s a story here. Can she help root out the truth after all these years?
This was a powerful read. It shows the stark ugliness behind rape and the repercussions involved when a woman is brave enough to come forth. Perhaps the most difficult…facing the defendant and his lawyer in a courtroom. Having to re-tell and relive the nightmare. Hiding from the viciousness of public opinion as everyone has their own idea of who is to blame and wants their voice heard. It’s like being victimized twice.
I read this book in only a few sittings and still cannot stop thinking about it.
This is the second book I’ve read of Megan Goldin. It was such a deviation from her previous novel. I can’t wait to see what direction she goes next!
A buddy read with Susanne that made for excellent discussions!
Thank you to Edelweiss and St. Martin's Press for an ARC to read and review
February 15, 2021
Published today! 🎉 (August 4th 2020)
A hard hitting, intense and emotional mystery/courtroom thriller, which left me angry, frustrated, shaken and tearful.
**Strong trigger warning for survivors of sexual abuse, you may find this book upsetting**
A accidental drowning of a teenaged girl,
A controversial rape trial featuring a popular swimming star,
Two cases, separated by 25 years,
How are they connected?
"This is Rachel Krall on Guilty or Not Guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box."
This was a challenging and timely read for me, which made me feel many, many emotions. It was very well researched, and very well written, sucking me in from the very first page. The short chapters from the two different characters, Rachel, covering a rape trial in a small town for her podcast, and Hannah, a woman, looking for help to unravel her sister's drowning, kept me turning the pages until late into the night! I liked the addition of the podcast chapters too! I stayed up until midnight to finish this, which is unheard of for this mum, whose kids get her up too early! But I needed to finish it because I so badly wanted justice for the two girls! The two timelines, the present day, and 1992, were woven together so well, showing that not much had changed in the small town of Neapolis when it comes to reputations, and what people think about rape. I am still thinking about this book today, and feel deeply affected by it. I have to keep reminding myself that it's a work of fiction!
I had read, and enjoyed Megan Goldin's previous book, Escape Room, but this book was on another level compared to that! Just to warn you, that The Night Swim has a completely different tone to that book, so don't go in expecting a similar tale!
If you love crime podcasts, I think you will love this!
I don't want to say too much about the plot, but I will talk about the way that Goldin took an unflinching look at how rape survivors are treated. What they go through after a rape, in terms of the trauma of rape kits, public opinion, and court tactics. She points out that, when it comes to murder, we all agree that its wrong, but when it comes to rape, people still see it in different shades of grey! Everyone seems to have an opinion on rape, and all too often the victim is blamed for walking along that dark alley, or having that extra drink, instead of the rapists being blamed. It makes my blood boil, that this still happens, that women are doubted and shamed for reporting rapes, and that prosecution and conviction rates for rape are so low. Not to mention some of the laws around what constitutes a rape!
I loved the way the town was described, I loved the strong women featured, the mystery, the courtroom drama, and I found the ending sad, but satisfying. The Night Swim was thought provoking and gripping right up until the end. I still feel unsettled, and that's the mark of a great author!
I definitely recommend this, if you can handle the subject matter, and I will be following this author closely! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I also need to start listening to some crime podcasts! Any recs?
Many thanks to Edelweiss and St. Martin's Press for making this DRC available for me to download, in exchange for an honest review!
A hard hitting, intense and emotional mystery/courtroom thriller, which left me angry, frustrated, shaken and tearful.
**Strong trigger warning for survivors of sexual abuse, you may find this book upsetting**
A accidental drowning of a teenaged girl,
A controversial rape trial featuring a popular swimming star,
Two cases, separated by 25 years,
How are they connected?
"This is Rachel Krall on Guilty or Not Guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box."
This was a challenging and timely read for me, which made me feel many, many emotions. It was very well researched, and very well written, sucking me in from the very first page. The short chapters from the two different characters, Rachel, covering a rape trial in a small town for her podcast, and Hannah, a woman, looking for help to unravel her sister's drowning, kept me turning the pages until late into the night! I liked the addition of the podcast chapters too! I stayed up until midnight to finish this, which is unheard of for this mum, whose kids get her up too early! But I needed to finish it because I so badly wanted justice for the two girls! The two timelines, the present day, and 1992, were woven together so well, showing that not much had changed in the small town of Neapolis when it comes to reputations, and what people think about rape. I am still thinking about this book today, and feel deeply affected by it. I have to keep reminding myself that it's a work of fiction!
I had read, and enjoyed Megan Goldin's previous book, Escape Room, but this book was on another level compared to that! Just to warn you, that The Night Swim has a completely different tone to that book, so don't go in expecting a similar tale!
If you love crime podcasts, I think you will love this!
I don't want to say too much about the plot, but I will talk about the way that Goldin took an unflinching look at how rape survivors are treated. What they go through after a rape, in terms of the trauma of rape kits, public opinion, and court tactics. She points out that, when it comes to murder, we all agree that its wrong, but when it comes to rape, people still see it in different shades of grey! Everyone seems to have an opinion on rape, and all too often the victim is blamed for walking along that dark alley, or having that extra drink, instead of the rapists being blamed. It makes my blood boil, that this still happens, that women are doubted and shamed for reporting rapes, and that prosecution and conviction rates for rape are so low. Not to mention some of the laws around what constitutes a rape!
I loved the way the town was described, I loved the strong women featured, the mystery, the courtroom drama, and I found the ending sad, but satisfying. The Night Swim was thought provoking and gripping right up until the end. I still feel unsettled, and that's the mark of a great author!
I definitely recommend this, if you can handle the subject matter, and I will be following this author closely! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I also need to start listening to some crime podcasts! Any recs?
Many thanks to Edelweiss and St. Martin's Press for making this DRC available for me to download, in exchange for an honest review!
October 22, 2020
Ok Well, I just scrolled down and took a look at all the 4 and 5-star reviews and I find myself again in the minority with my thoughts on this one.
Just when I thought I was getting my groove back with thrillers along comes this one, and I again think that thrillers just might not be my thing right now. Especially with thrillers that take on some series themes and with everything going on right now, I am finding some dark realities are not as exciting as they used to be for me. I find myself questioning how they are being represented and so I am going to be a bummer here with my thoughts for this one.
At first, when I finished, I thought I liked it better than I did, and I rated it 4 stars, but then I started thinking about this one and my thoughts changed. I enjoyed the suspense of the story, and I was tapping my kindle as fast as I could to see how this one wrapped up. There are two storylines going on here, and I liked the way they were connected, and I did enjoy the suspense to the mystery from the past however it all came together with a little too many conveniences for me. The reveal left me underwhelmed and questioning how well the themes here were represented and of course, that just ruined the story for me. Sometimes honestly gets me in trouble, and I can be a little too honest, so please take my honestly with a grain of salt. I felt there wasn't enough depth to the story and characters with too many things added for the convenience of the story and I think we can do better than this with the way the realities of classism, privilege white males, rock star district attorneys, he said/she said and the vulnerabilities of young females are represented. Maybe I feel this way because I just read a memoir that felt similar to one storyline from this one.
Sorry again my friends for being such a bummer with another well-loved thriller.
I received a copy from the publisher on Edelweiss
Just when I thought I was getting my groove back with thrillers along comes this one, and I again think that thrillers just might not be my thing right now. Especially with thrillers that take on some series themes and with everything going on right now, I am finding some dark realities are not as exciting as they used to be for me. I find myself questioning how they are being represented and so I am going to be a bummer here with my thoughts for this one.
At first, when I finished, I thought I liked it better than I did, and I rated it 4 stars, but then I started thinking about this one and my thoughts changed. I enjoyed the suspense of the story, and I was tapping my kindle as fast as I could to see how this one wrapped up. There are two storylines going on here, and I liked the way they were connected, and I did enjoy the suspense to the mystery from the past however it all came together with a little too many conveniences for me. The reveal left me underwhelmed and questioning how well the themes here were represented and of course, that just ruined the story for me. Sometimes honestly gets me in trouble, and I can be a little too honest, so please take my honestly with a grain of salt. I felt there wasn't enough depth to the story and characters with too many things added for the convenience of the story and I think we can do better than this with the way the realities of classism, privilege white males, rock star district attorneys, he said/she said and the vulnerabilities of young females are represented. Maybe I feel this way because I just read a memoir that felt similar to one storyline from this one.
Sorry again my friends for being such a bummer with another well-loved thriller.
I received a copy from the publisher on Edelweiss
December 13, 2020
***NOW AVAILABLE***
This book was very different from her debut novel, “The Escape Room” and for me that was a good thing. I was hoping that the author would surprise me with this one and she did just that.
Rachel Krall has become known for her two previous podcasts, she has thousands of followers. In the first two seasons she had worked on cold cases and was hugely successful in bringing new evidence to light which changed the previous convictions.
This time she is going to cover a live trial and as she says after each of her podcast episodes “this is Guilty or Not Guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box”. This season would test Rachel’s endurance as she planned to attend court every day. She has arrived in the city days early to see what further information about the trial that she can unearth.
On her way to Neopolis, North Carolina, she pulls off the highway into a restaurant and is shocked to find a note addressed to her on her windshield. She has worked hard to try to keep her photograph and “face” from the public’s eye, they only know her by her unique voice. However someone has found her and is begging for her help.
This person is Hannah, the sister of a young woman who died 25 years ago. Her death was ruled an accident, but Hannah knows differently. She has been following Rachel’s podcasts and knows she will be in her hometown of Neopolis. She is hoping desperately that Rachel will help to finally get the truth out about what happened to her sister, Jenny.
The trial is an ugly one. It involves a violent rape and the young woman, “K”, who is willing to testify to what happened. Will she get the chance to do this? We are made to try to understand the trauma that K is going through, and how her parents feel about her testifying. She is the granddaughter of a previous town police chief and her family is well known in Neopolis.
Scott Blair, the accused, is somewhat of a local town hero. He is a great swimmer, winning local and national races, and said to possibly be on his way to the Olympics. Many people have mixed feelings about whether this young man would be capable of the crimes he is accused of. Why would he sacrifice his career? Someone is lying in this case, which one?
While Rachel races to try to unearth more facts about the trial she is consistently receiving notes from Hanna. She feels herself drawn into Jenny’s case and so is working both cases at the same time.
In this novel Ms.Goldin has written a novel with well developed characters who we can feel for and dual mysteries to solve. Will they come together in some way in this uniquely plotted novel? I think you will be as surprised as I was at the outcome of this novel.
This second book is a winner. It is a propulsive read and sheds light on how rape trials are still conducted and how much a victim much go through in order to tell her story.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
This book was very different from her debut novel, “The Escape Room” and for me that was a good thing. I was hoping that the author would surprise me with this one and she did just that.
Rachel Krall has become known for her two previous podcasts, she has thousands of followers. In the first two seasons she had worked on cold cases and was hugely successful in bringing new evidence to light which changed the previous convictions.
This time she is going to cover a live trial and as she says after each of her podcast episodes “this is Guilty or Not Guilty, the podcast that puts you in the jury box”. This season would test Rachel’s endurance as she planned to attend court every day. She has arrived in the city days early to see what further information about the trial that she can unearth.
On her way to Neopolis, North Carolina, she pulls off the highway into a restaurant and is shocked to find a note addressed to her on her windshield. She has worked hard to try to keep her photograph and “face” from the public’s eye, they only know her by her unique voice. However someone has found her and is begging for her help.
This person is Hannah, the sister of a young woman who died 25 years ago. Her death was ruled an accident, but Hannah knows differently. She has been following Rachel’s podcasts and knows she will be in her hometown of Neopolis. She is hoping desperately that Rachel will help to finally get the truth out about what happened to her sister, Jenny.
The trial is an ugly one. It involves a violent rape and the young woman, “K”, who is willing to testify to what happened. Will she get the chance to do this? We are made to try to understand the trauma that K is going through, and how her parents feel about her testifying. She is the granddaughter of a previous town police chief and her family is well known in Neopolis.
Scott Blair, the accused, is somewhat of a local town hero. He is a great swimmer, winning local and national races, and said to possibly be on his way to the Olympics. Many people have mixed feelings about whether this young man would be capable of the crimes he is accused of. Why would he sacrifice his career? Someone is lying in this case, which one?
While Rachel races to try to unearth more facts about the trial she is consistently receiving notes from Hanna. She feels herself drawn into Jenny’s case and so is working both cases at the same time.
In this novel Ms.Goldin has written a novel with well developed characters who we can feel for and dual mysteries to solve. Will they come together in some way in this uniquely plotted novel? I think you will be as surprised as I was at the outcome of this novel.
This second book is a winner. It is a propulsive read and sheds light on how rape trials are still conducted and how much a victim much go through in order to tell her story.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
August 4, 2020
“This is Rachel Krall on Guilty or Not Guilty, the podcast that puts YOU in the jury box.”
Known for her sultry voice, but not her face, Rachel is troubled when she finds a handwritten letter on her windshield, outside a diner at a remote stop, as she is on her way to Neapolis, the town of her season three podcast.
The letter is written intimately, and is asking for help in solving the case of a sixteen year old girl named Jenny Stills, who died in Neapolis decades earlier, and is signed by her sister Hannah, who believes the “drowning” was actually a murder...
But, Rachel gets requests from desperate people all the time.
She needs to focus on the current case.
For the first time her Podcast is following a trial LIVE, and it is the first RAPE she is covering- A Future Olympian, and the town’s golden boy has been accused of raping a high school student, referred to as “K”.
But, Hannah does not give up easily.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Hannah, Rachel, and the Season Three Podcast episode transcripts, the three narratives, and the two cases, will eventually intersect in many unexpected ways.
I love when a suspense story can surprise me, while remaining plausible, and this one managed to do just that, with the short chapters I love which allow you to say “just one more chapter”...
I am hoping that Rachel Krall, and her podcast may make another appearance in a future book...any chance of that happening, Ms. Goldin??
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for the digital ARC I received in exchange for a candid review! This book will be released Aug. 4th 2020.
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!!
Known for her sultry voice, but not her face, Rachel is troubled when she finds a handwritten letter on her windshield, outside a diner at a remote stop, as she is on her way to Neapolis, the town of her season three podcast.
The letter is written intimately, and is asking for help in solving the case of a sixteen year old girl named Jenny Stills, who died in Neapolis decades earlier, and is signed by her sister Hannah, who believes the “drowning” was actually a murder...
But, Rachel gets requests from desperate people all the time.
She needs to focus on the current case.
For the first time her Podcast is following a trial LIVE, and it is the first RAPE she is covering- A Future Olympian, and the town’s golden boy has been accused of raping a high school student, referred to as “K”.
But, Hannah does not give up easily.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Hannah, Rachel, and the Season Three Podcast episode transcripts, the three narratives, and the two cases, will eventually intersect in many unexpected ways.
I love when a suspense story can surprise me, while remaining plausible, and this one managed to do just that, with the short chapters I love which allow you to say “just one more chapter”...
I am hoping that Rachel Krall, and her podcast may make another appearance in a future book...any chance of that happening, Ms. Goldin??
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for the digital ARC I received in exchange for a candid review! This book will be released Aug. 4th 2020.
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!!
September 12, 2020
4.5 Stars
Omg!!! Shoot all the bastards!!!
.
That being said, I thought the author did a great job with this book. Although, I am trading it in as I don’t want to read it again 😕
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
BLOG: https://melissa413readsalot.blogspot....
Omg!!! Shoot all the bastards!!!
. That being said, I thought the author did a great job with this book. Although, I am trading it in as I don’t want to read it again 😕
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
BLOG: https://melissa413readsalot.blogspot....
January 18, 2023
“When school kids are shot by a random shooter, nobody asks whether the victims should have taken more precautions. Nobody suggests that maybe the victims should have skipped school that day. Nobody ever blames the victims. So why is it that when women are attacked, the onus is on them? “If only she hadn’t walked home alone.” “If only she hadn’t cut through the park.” “If only she’d taken a cab.” When it comes to rape, it seems to me “if only” is used all the time. Never about the man. Nobody ever says “if only” he hadn’t raped her. It’s always about the woman. If only …”
Rachel Krall hosts a true crime podcast “Guilty or Not Guilty” with a wide fan following. The third season of her podcast takes her to the small town of Neapolis where she is reporting on a rape trial in real-time. A popular local boy, Scott Blair, a talented swimmer with Olympic potential is on trial for brutally raping a sixteen-year-old schoolgirl.
We follow Rachel as she explores the town of Neapolis on a fact-finding mission of her own, gathering information on the victim and the accused and their families while also trying to gauge how the residents feel about the incident and the trial. The town is divided on their opinions on the matter and a lot rests on the victim’s testimony – a child who will have to relive the horrific episode of her life as she testifies while the defense tries to discredit her and prove that she is lying.
Parallel to covering the rape trial, Rachel is also drawn into looking into the death of a young girl from 25 years ago. Hannah Stills reaches out to Rachel through strategically placed letters and messages requesting her to help bring her sister Jenny’s killers to justice. While official records indicate that Jenny died from drowning, Hannah insists that her sister was murdered. Initially reluctant, Rachel eventually agrees and embarks on uncovering what really happened all those years ago.
As Rachel tries to strike a balance between her current podcast and coverage of the trial and research into Jenny’s death while also trying to locate the elusive Hannah, she discovers that the small town and its influential residents harbor long-buried secrets that could not only shed a light on what happened to Jenny but also change the trajectory of the current trial.
The Night Swim by Megan Goldin is a gripping read that I found hard to put down. The author paints a sad and infuriating yet realistic picture of what victims of sexual assault have to go through in seeking justice – from cover-ups and faulty investigations to victim shaming and blaming to being humiliated on the stand. Intricately plotted and tight-knit, the narrative is shared through alternating perspectives of Hannah and Rachel with episodes of the podcast interspersed throughout the narrative. The author does a great job of bringing both threads of the plot together in a way that you do not see coming. This is the second Megan Goldin novel I’ve read ( Stay Awake was the first Goldin novel I read) and I’m eager to explore more of her work.
Rachel Krall hosts a true crime podcast “Guilty or Not Guilty” with a wide fan following. The third season of her podcast takes her to the small town of Neapolis where she is reporting on a rape trial in real-time. A popular local boy, Scott Blair, a talented swimmer with Olympic potential is on trial for brutally raping a sixteen-year-old schoolgirl.
We follow Rachel as she explores the town of Neapolis on a fact-finding mission of her own, gathering information on the victim and the accused and their families while also trying to gauge how the residents feel about the incident and the trial. The town is divided on their opinions on the matter and a lot rests on the victim’s testimony – a child who will have to relive the horrific episode of her life as she testifies while the defense tries to discredit her and prove that she is lying.
Parallel to covering the rape trial, Rachel is also drawn into looking into the death of a young girl from 25 years ago. Hannah Stills reaches out to Rachel through strategically placed letters and messages requesting her to help bring her sister Jenny’s killers to justice. While official records indicate that Jenny died from drowning, Hannah insists that her sister was murdered. Initially reluctant, Rachel eventually agrees and embarks on uncovering what really happened all those years ago.
As Rachel tries to strike a balance between her current podcast and coverage of the trial and research into Jenny’s death while also trying to locate the elusive Hannah, she discovers that the small town and its influential residents harbor long-buried secrets that could not only shed a light on what happened to Jenny but also change the trajectory of the current trial.
The Night Swim by Megan Goldin is a gripping read that I found hard to put down. The author paints a sad and infuriating yet realistic picture of what victims of sexual assault have to go through in seeking justice – from cover-ups and faulty investigations to victim shaming and blaming to being humiliated on the stand. Intricately plotted and tight-knit, the narrative is shared through alternating perspectives of Hannah and Rachel with episodes of the podcast interspersed throughout the narrative. The author does a great job of bringing both threads of the plot together in a way that you do not see coming. This is the second Megan Goldin novel I’ve read ( Stay Awake was the first Goldin novel I read) and I’m eager to explore more of her work.
August 4, 2020
Jaw. On. The. Floor. 😲
Shortest Summary Ever: Rachel Krall is a podcast sensation covering a rape trial in a coastal NC town - the kind of trial that has the town fervently taking sides. As if that weren’t enough, Rachel finds a note on her windshield asking her to look into a decades-old murder. There are more and more notes. Someone is following her. Caught up in the trial, Rachel can’t help but be pulled to the murder. Could they be connected? What is happening in this sleepy little town and what mysteries lurk in the shadows?
I requested what I thought would be an average mystery and received MY FAVORITE BOOK OF THE YEAR (ok, so far). In the #metoo era it’s intriguing and refreshing to see a mystery - a genre that can be often dismissed as “not serious” - be so poignant and dead-on in research and the telling of sexual assault. Wow. This needs to be a movie. Someone call Reese Witherspoon.
The viewpoint is mostly that of Rachel, a famous podcaster of a “guilty or innocent” show, a pastime I will admit I’ve never ventured into. It made for a unique viewpoint - a journalist, but one who operates behind the scenes. One who truly strives to stay impartial.
But the best part of this is the rawness of the whole case. It is dead-on accurate. If you don’t know already you will understand intimately why women don’t report sexual assault, why they don’t follow through when they do report and why so few cases go to trial.
All my reviews available at scrappymags.com
Genre: Mystery/ContemporaryFaction
Recommend to: Everyone who loves mystery. This is THE ONE we need to talk about.
Not recommended to: if sexual assault/rape issues are too much for you.
Thank you to the author Megan Goldin , St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my always-honest review and for wowing me and rocking my world during quarantine.
Shortest Summary Ever: Rachel Krall is a podcast sensation covering a rape trial in a coastal NC town - the kind of trial that has the town fervently taking sides. As if that weren’t enough, Rachel finds a note on her windshield asking her to look into a decades-old murder. There are more and more notes. Someone is following her. Caught up in the trial, Rachel can’t help but be pulled to the murder. Could they be connected? What is happening in this sleepy little town and what mysteries lurk in the shadows?
I requested what I thought would be an average mystery and received MY FAVORITE BOOK OF THE YEAR (ok, so far). In the #metoo era it’s intriguing and refreshing to see a mystery - a genre that can be often dismissed as “not serious” - be so poignant and dead-on in research and the telling of sexual assault. Wow. This needs to be a movie. Someone call Reese Witherspoon.
The viewpoint is mostly that of Rachel, a famous podcaster of a “guilty or innocent” show, a pastime I will admit I’ve never ventured into. It made for a unique viewpoint - a journalist, but one who operates behind the scenes. One who truly strives to stay impartial.
But the best part of this is the rawness of the whole case. It is dead-on accurate. If you don’t know already you will understand intimately why women don’t report sexual assault, why they don’t follow through when they do report and why so few cases go to trial.
All my reviews available at scrappymags.com
Genre: Mystery/ContemporaryFaction
Recommend to: Everyone who loves mystery. This is THE ONE we need to talk about.
Not recommended to: if sexual assault/rape issues are too much for you.
Thank you to the author Megan Goldin , St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my always-honest review and for wowing me and rocking my world during quarantine.
July 14, 2020
the best thing about this book is its relevance. it combines the current intrigue of popular true crime podcasts like serial and recent emotionally difficult court cases like people vs. turner. i have a feeling this story is going resonate with many readers because of that.
i will admit i found the second half of the book (when the trial begins) to be more interesting, but thats just a personal preference. which lead me to find hannahs chapters very boring, because they deal with a cold case that happened 25 years prior. yes, both crimes are somewhat related, but i found myself more drawn to rachels chapters dealing with the trial.
overall, i found the writing to be engaging and the story to be satisfying. i will definitely be picking up more books by MG in the future!
a big thanks to st. martins press for the ARC!
↠ 3.5 stars
i will admit i found the second half of the book (when the trial begins) to be more interesting, but thats just a personal preference. which lead me to find hannahs chapters very boring, because they deal with a cold case that happened 25 years prior. yes, both crimes are somewhat related, but i found myself more drawn to rachels chapters dealing with the trial.
overall, i found the writing to be engaging and the story to be satisfying. i will definitely be picking up more books by MG in the future!
a big thanks to st. martins press for the ARC!
↠ 3.5 stars
August 2, 2020
A Heart Stopping Thriller that Kept me Glued to My Seat!
When you hear the name Rachel Krall, it’s instantly recognizable. She is known for her Podcast “Guilty or Not Guilty” which is now in it’s 3rd Season and which will be its most controversial yet - focusing on the topic of sexual assault in the small town of Neapolis. Rachel is going to cover a rape trial as it unfolds. It’s he said, she said and it’s going to be a doozy.
To make matters even more dicey, while in town, Rachel begins receiving anonymous letters from someone claiming to be the sister of a girl who died 25 years prior. The sister, Hannah believes her sister Jenny was murdered though the official cause of death was drowning.
Rachel investigates both cases, chasing down angles wherever they may lead.
Can she find the truth before it’s too late?
Speaking from my experience as a former paralegal for 24 years, when it comes to the law, it is often the case that the attorney who puts forth the better argument wins, regardless of whose side the law is on. It was therefore thrilling to see how the lawsuit in this novel played out (no spoilers) - as it always is in legal thrillers. I found the characterizations to be brilliantly plotted, Rachel Krall’s podcast to deliver, the testimony in the courtroom to keep me engaged and Hannah’s letters quite gripping.
In short, “The Night Swim” by Megan Goldin expertly delved into extremely sensitive topics. Furthermore, this book was an intriguing pulse pounding thriller that took the bull by the horns and came out swinging. Bravo!
This was an excellent buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, NetGalley, Edelweiss and Megan Goldin for the arc.
Published on Goodreads on 8.2.20.
When you hear the name Rachel Krall, it’s instantly recognizable. She is known for her Podcast “Guilty or Not Guilty” which is now in it’s 3rd Season and which will be its most controversial yet - focusing on the topic of sexual assault in the small town of Neapolis. Rachel is going to cover a rape trial as it unfolds. It’s he said, she said and it’s going to be a doozy.
To make matters even more dicey, while in town, Rachel begins receiving anonymous letters from someone claiming to be the sister of a girl who died 25 years prior. The sister, Hannah believes her sister Jenny was murdered though the official cause of death was drowning.
Rachel investigates both cases, chasing down angles wherever they may lead.
Can she find the truth before it’s too late?
Speaking from my experience as a former paralegal for 24 years, when it comes to the law, it is often the case that the attorney who puts forth the better argument wins, regardless of whose side the law is on. It was therefore thrilling to see how the lawsuit in this novel played out (no spoilers) - as it always is in legal thrillers. I found the characterizations to be brilliantly plotted, Rachel Krall’s podcast to deliver, the testimony in the courtroom to keep me engaged and Hannah’s letters quite gripping.
In short, “The Night Swim” by Megan Goldin expertly delved into extremely sensitive topics. Furthermore, this book was an intriguing pulse pounding thriller that took the bull by the horns and came out swinging. Bravo!
This was an excellent buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, NetGalley, Edelweiss and Megan Goldin for the arc.
Published on Goodreads on 8.2.20.
February 11, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I, like many other people, love true crime podcasts. They make my one-and-a-half-hour commute (yes, you read that right, and yes, it sucks as much as you think it does) bearable. So when I saw that The Night Swim was a mystery/thriller about a true crime podcast host, I requested it immediately. Unfortunately, I think my experience with true crime podcasts made this book less enjoyable, not more.
There were a lot of little inaccuracies that bothered me. Rachel Krall’s podcast episodes are very short and contain far more speculation than fact, and she doesn’t have that natural, conversational way of speaking that podcast listeners enjoy; her words read as very obviously scripted. She’s the only host, which I can only imagine is very boring to listen to and is certainly boring to read (there’s a reason most podcasts have at least two hosts). She records one of her episodes outside, while walking, which would be an audio nightmare. And her podcast is supposedly so universally popular that Rachel is a “household name.” The only podcast hosts I know of who are household names are celebrities who were already famous for something else.
There were even more details that damaged the book’s realism. Everyone Rachel speaks to is conveniently quick to open up and share plot-relevant details that most people wouldn’t give up so easily to a stranger. The wrongly convicted man who was the subject of the first season of Rachel’s podcast is released in short order after she reveals new evidence that exonerates him, which I find hard to believe; the American justice system will do anything in its power to keep people in prison even if it’s obvious that they’re innocent. And Hannah’s notes to Rachel are so riddled with flowery, unnecessary detail that I spent the whole time I was reading them rolling my eyes and thinking, “Who writes like this?”
I fully realize that I am being incredibly nitpicky and that most of these details may not even faze the average reader, but each one took me out of the story and prevented me from immersing myself. An even bigger issue was Rachel herself. I had no sense of her personality, unless you count “true crime podcast host” as a personality trait (I don’t). What little I learned about her was told, not shown. She was flat and lifeless. And I hated Hannah. You want justice for your sister, so you stalk a true crime podcast host who’s just trying to do her job? Even more frustrating, Rachel does exactly what Hannah wants and investigates her sister’s case, and even lets it distract her from her work.
I did like that Megan Goldin seemed to draw from real-life cases to inspire the ones she mentions or focuses on in The Night Swim, which added back some of the realism the book lost. As far as I know, neither the Jenny Stills case nor the Kelly Moore case were direct copies of any real case, though, so there was still room for creativity. I liked the trial scenes. I appreciated the commentary on rape and victim blaming that we got from the Kelly case, and I enjoyed slowly discovering the details of the Jenny case. And the ending was decent, though not unexpected.
I have to stress that I really don’t think Goldin is a bad writer, or that this is a bad book. I’m clearly in the minority here. I’m between two and three stars, but because there were so many instances when I wanted to put the book down and give up on reading it, I have to go with two.
I, like many other people, love true crime podcasts. They make my one-and-a-half-hour commute (yes, you read that right, and yes, it sucks as much as you think it does) bearable. So when I saw that The Night Swim was a mystery/thriller about a true crime podcast host, I requested it immediately. Unfortunately, I think my experience with true crime podcasts made this book less enjoyable, not more.
There were a lot of little inaccuracies that bothered me. Rachel Krall’s podcast episodes are very short and contain far more speculation than fact, and she doesn’t have that natural, conversational way of speaking that podcast listeners enjoy; her words read as very obviously scripted. She’s the only host, which I can only imagine is very boring to listen to and is certainly boring to read (there’s a reason most podcasts have at least two hosts). She records one of her episodes outside, while walking, which would be an audio nightmare. And her podcast is supposedly so universally popular that Rachel is a “household name.” The only podcast hosts I know of who are household names are celebrities who were already famous for something else.
There were even more details that damaged the book’s realism. Everyone Rachel speaks to is conveniently quick to open up and share plot-relevant details that most people wouldn’t give up so easily to a stranger. The wrongly convicted man who was the subject of the first season of Rachel’s podcast is released in short order after she reveals new evidence that exonerates him, which I find hard to believe; the American justice system will do anything in its power to keep people in prison even if it’s obvious that they’re innocent. And Hannah’s notes to Rachel are so riddled with flowery, unnecessary detail that I spent the whole time I was reading them rolling my eyes and thinking, “Who writes like this?”
I fully realize that I am being incredibly nitpicky and that most of these details may not even faze the average reader, but each one took me out of the story and prevented me from immersing myself. An even bigger issue was Rachel herself. I had no sense of her personality, unless you count “true crime podcast host” as a personality trait (I don’t). What little I learned about her was told, not shown. She was flat and lifeless. And I hated Hannah. You want justice for your sister, so you stalk a true crime podcast host who’s just trying to do her job? Even more frustrating, Rachel does exactly what Hannah wants and investigates her sister’s case, and even lets it distract her from her work.
I did like that Megan Goldin seemed to draw from real-life cases to inspire the ones she mentions or focuses on in The Night Swim, which added back some of the realism the book lost. As far as I know, neither the Jenny Stills case nor the Kelly Moore case were direct copies of any real case, though, so there was still room for creativity. I liked the trial scenes. I appreciated the commentary on rape and victim blaming that we got from the Kelly case, and I enjoyed slowly discovering the details of the Jenny case. And the ending was decent, though not unexpected.
I have to stress that I really don’t think Goldin is a bad writer, or that this is a bad book. I’m clearly in the minority here. I’m between two and three stars, but because there were so many instances when I wanted to put the book down and give up on reading it, I have to go with two.
October 14, 2021
“To tell you the truth, I don't get how we can almost unanimously agree that murder is wrong, yet when it comes to rape some people still see shades of gray.”
Megan Goldin wrote the heck out of The Night Swim! When I began, I had my doubts, as it tackles a topic I find hard to read about. However, once I started listening I could not stop!
I have never listened to podcasts before but now I see why people love them so much. It was really interesting listening to the episodes of the podcast which are also included in the book.
I enjoyed the present timeline more than the chapters set in the past. Court room settings always has an extra element of drama that I cannot resist. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how the trial would proceed and hanging on to the words of every witness.
The mystery of what happened to Jenny had me two folds more invested in the story.
This book highlighted the horrible ugliness of rape and everything surrounding it. Everything the victim has to endure afterwards, once coming forth. Reliving the nightmare over and over and the emotional trauma of having to face the rapist in court while also enduring public opinion.
This was challenging, there were times I had to press pause and take a few deep breaths but it was definitely worth the read. The Night Swim was such a unique thriller, I hope this isn’t the last of Rachel Krall and her podcast.
Buddy read with Ameerah, May & Warda
Megan Goldin wrote the heck out of The Night Swim! When I began, I had my doubts, as it tackles a topic I find hard to read about. However, once I started listening I could not stop!
I have never listened to podcasts before but now I see why people love them so much. It was really interesting listening to the episodes of the podcast which are also included in the book.
I enjoyed the present timeline more than the chapters set in the past. Court room settings always has an extra element of drama that I cannot resist. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see how the trial would proceed and hanging on to the words of every witness.
The mystery of what happened to Jenny had me two folds more invested in the story.
This book highlighted the horrible ugliness of rape and everything surrounding it. Everything the victim has to endure afterwards, once coming forth. Reliving the nightmare over and over and the emotional trauma of having to face the rapist in court while also enduring public opinion.
This was challenging, there were times I had to press pause and take a few deep breaths but it was definitely worth the read. The Night Swim was such a unique thriller, I hope this isn’t the last of Rachel Krall and her podcast.
Buddy read with Ameerah, May & Warda
July 17, 2023
This is going to be a short review. I only read this one because I got Dark Corners (Rachel Krall #2) from NetGalley. I am going to start with what I loved, the courtroom scenes were very realistic. I really enjoyed the chapters of the podcast sprinkled throughout. I loved Rachel as a character. She is tough as nails and doesn't suffer fools. But I found her investigation was a little too easily done for my liking. I know it's fiction but social workers, medical staff, lawyers and police all gave her sensitive information so freely and I just didn't buy it. I do hope book two is a little more realistic. All in all a decent start to the series.
January 22, 2021
This book far surpassed my expectations. I will say that it is not a book for anyone who may be upset by reading about rape and it's very personal affects on women. It's not that the description is gratuitous in any way, it is meaningful and really just so refreshingly honest.
This is the second book that I've read lately that turns a "thriller" sideways. What scares you? Well reality should and this book shows the truth people deal with in towns after not only a brutalizing event but then the aftermath of labels and opinions.
There were multiple things I loved about this book!
First off, the things discussed above, I like to be surprised by a book's path, when you find yourself saying "Oh, this is what this is about.." and loving it.
Also the lack of sensationalism. Megan Goldin really did a stellar job of writing this in my opinion.
I also really enjoyed the podcast that the main character, Rachel does, I lost myself for a while and had to remind myself that I was reading fiction and not listening to an actual true crime podcast. I can credit that to a really well done audiobook. I was taken seamlessly through chapters and POV and podcast episodes as if I was there.
Now, my next favourite thing, I loved the two concurrent plots, two cases, set 25 years apart, at points you wonder if they connect, you sway between wanting to know more about one or the other, really got my attention.
I could go on and on! I haven't even touched on the fact that I so enjoyed that the focus was on female leads with men taking a supporting role, I don't have a preference but I just felt that everything about this book was both disturbing and refreshing.
And I felt. Period.. I felt.
Anger, sadness, compassion, helplessness, hope, I cried I got mad! Wow..
Like I said, so much more than I was expecting.
I feel like this was a moving, necessary book that puts an eye on a topic people are afraid to confront head on and I encourage anyone who can emotionally handle the reality of it, to read it. It's a must read!
This is the second book that I've read lately that turns a "thriller" sideways. What scares you? Well reality should and this book shows the truth people deal with in towns after not only a brutalizing event but then the aftermath of labels and opinions.
There were multiple things I loved about this book!
First off, the things discussed above, I like to be surprised by a book's path, when you find yourself saying "Oh, this is what this is about.." and loving it.
Also the lack of sensationalism. Megan Goldin really did a stellar job of writing this in my opinion.
I also really enjoyed the podcast that the main character, Rachel does, I lost myself for a while and had to remind myself that I was reading fiction and not listening to an actual true crime podcast. I can credit that to a really well done audiobook. I was taken seamlessly through chapters and POV and podcast episodes as if I was there.
Now, my next favourite thing, I loved the two concurrent plots, two cases, set 25 years apart, at points you wonder if they connect, you sway between wanting to know more about one or the other, really got my attention.
I could go on and on! I haven't even touched on the fact that I so enjoyed that the focus was on female leads with men taking a supporting role, I don't have a preference but I just felt that everything about this book was both disturbing and refreshing.
And I felt. Period.. I felt.
Anger, sadness, compassion, helplessness, hope, I cried I got mad! Wow..
Like I said, so much more than I was expecting.
I feel like this was a moving, necessary book that puts an eye on a topic people are afraid to confront head on and I encourage anyone who can emotionally handle the reality of it, to read it. It's a must read!
May 7, 2021
Actual rating: 3,5
Trigger warning: This book talks about rape and other forms of sexual abuse, and contains graphic scenes with said actions.
Going into The Night Swim my expectations were higher then the ceiling of my own building, because ever since it came out, my Goodreads friends rate it (it seems to me) only 4 or 5 stars, and I am not lying when I say that I see it on my feed every single day.
Maybe my (too)high expectations are the reason why I wasn't thrilled with the story, or why I was bored most of the time and expected more (action).
This book covers one very important topic, and that is sexual abuse, and it really puts reflector on the victims and what they are going through just so their abusers could be punished, how the trials often look like the cases where the victimis the one who is judged, and how easy it is for abusers to just get away without the blame, especially if the happen to be from a wealthy family or have successful career themselves.
It also pictures why so many victims just don't speak about horrible things they had to go through. How stressful and harmful to relive all that again during trial actually is.
Because of all of the mentioned above, I think it is very important that people read this and similar books, because I still believe that if we talk and educate people, we are one step closer to change thigs for a better.
We have a long way ahead of us, but it is important to move at least one little step by step, and contribute in a way we can.
I think Megan Goldin, the author of this novel, made a good step, now it's on us to walk along.
Trigger warning: This book talks about rape and other forms of sexual abuse, and contains graphic scenes with said actions.
Going into The Night Swim my expectations were higher then the ceiling of my own building, because ever since it came out, my Goodreads friends rate it (it seems to me) only 4 or 5 stars, and I am not lying when I say that I see it on my feed every single day.
Maybe my (too)high expectations are the reason why I wasn't thrilled with the story, or why I was bored most of the time and expected more (action).
This book covers one very important topic, and that is sexual abuse, and it really puts reflector on the victims and what they are going through just so their abusers could be punished, how the trials often look like the cases where the victimis the one who is judged, and how easy it is for abusers to just get away without the blame, especially if the happen to be from a wealthy family or have successful career themselves.
It also pictures why so many victims just don't speak about horrible things they had to go through. How stressful and harmful to relive all that again during trial actually is.
Because of all of the mentioned above, I think it is very important that people read this and similar books, because I still believe that if we talk and educate people, we are one step closer to change thigs for a better.
We have a long way ahead of us, but it is important to move at least one little step by step, and contribute in a way we can.
I think Megan Goldin, the author of this novel, made a good step, now it's on us to walk along.
August 6, 2021
This is such a powerful book! 4.5 stars
I loved The Escape Room and so I was hesitant about this new one because I didn't think it could be as good, but I was happily wrong.
Besides being an engrossing psychological thriller with some surprising twists, this novel highlights the glaring inequities with rape culture. Rapes are one of the few crimes where the victim is put on trial, and where the victim is blamed more often than not. It is something I had never really thought too much about before, but it is astounding when you take the time to think about it.
The only slight issues I had were that in the end, I couldn't figure out why Hannah went to all of the work to hide herself, and I didn't get a clear answer as to how she was able to find Rachel so many places and stay out of sight. Also, Rachel's armchair detective work borders on a bit too convenient at times, some things she uncovers should have been discovered by the investigators. Other than those small details, this is a fantastic book, and they don't detract from the overall story.
I listened to much of this one as an audio book and the narrators did an excellent job embodying the main characters. Since the tale focuses on episodes of a podcast, the narrative naturally lends itself quite well to an audio book format. I must say though, that at regular speed the speech is incredibly slow, so I had to speed up the audio to 1.75x in order for my mind not to wander. Listeners might want to play around with the speed to find one that works for them.
If you're looking for a compelling suspense novel, then look no further and place this one on your list now.
I voluntarily reviewed complimentary copies of both the print and audio book formats of this novel. All opinions are my own.
I loved The Escape Room and so I was hesitant about this new one because I didn't think it could be as good, but I was happily wrong.
Besides being an engrossing psychological thriller with some surprising twists, this novel highlights the glaring inequities with rape culture. Rapes are one of the few crimes where the victim is put on trial, and where the victim is blamed more often than not. It is something I had never really thought too much about before, but it is astounding when you take the time to think about it.
The only slight issues I had were that in the end, I couldn't figure out why Hannah went to all of the work to hide herself, and I didn't get a clear answer as to how she was able to find Rachel so many places and stay out of sight. Also, Rachel's armchair detective work borders on a bit too convenient at times, some things she uncovers should have been discovered by the investigators. Other than those small details, this is a fantastic book, and they don't detract from the overall story.
I listened to much of this one as an audio book and the narrators did an excellent job embodying the main characters. Since the tale focuses on episodes of a podcast, the narrative naturally lends itself quite well to an audio book format. I must say though, that at regular speed the speech is incredibly slow, so I had to speed up the audio to 1.75x in order for my mind not to wander. Listeners might want to play around with the speed to find one that works for them.
If you're looking for a compelling suspense novel, then look no further and place this one on your list now.
I voluntarily reviewed complimentary copies of both the print and audio book formats of this novel. All opinions are my own.
September 22, 2020
4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Between getting a new puppy, starting piano lessons and not having NEARLY as much time as I would love to have on Goodreads (I’m really missing everybody), I almost forgot to post my review for this fantastic book!
I really enjoyed reading The Night Swim. This was my first Megan Goldin book, but now I really, really want to go and read The Escape Room as soon as I can.
Rachel Krall has become very well known (by her voice only - not appearance) since launching her true crime podcast GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY - which has helped overturn convictions after shedding light on new facts. When Rachel travels to a small town to cover the trial of a teenaged boy accused of rape, she receives a note on her car from a girl named Hannah asking for her help in solving the murder of her sister. The murder happened 25 years prior in the same small town.
I would not put this book in the psychological thriller genre. There are no twisty shockers like you’d see in a thriller, but there is mystery and suspense. I would put this in the crime fiction category. It didn’t diminish how much I enjoyed reading it.
The story is told in alternating POV’s - Rachel and Hannah - plus a few episodes of the podcast sprinkled in between the short chapters. I love short chapters, but they can be a blessing and a curse - especially if you’re trying to go to bed at 2:00 AM but can’t stop reading!
Highly recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Megan Goldin for my advanced copy to read and review.
Between getting a new puppy, starting piano lessons and not having NEARLY as much time as I would love to have on Goodreads (I’m really missing everybody), I almost forgot to post my review for this fantastic book!
I really enjoyed reading The Night Swim. This was my first Megan Goldin book, but now I really, really want to go and read The Escape Room as soon as I can.
Rachel Krall has become very well known (by her voice only - not appearance) since launching her true crime podcast GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY - which has helped overturn convictions after shedding light on new facts. When Rachel travels to a small town to cover the trial of a teenaged boy accused of rape, she receives a note on her car from a girl named Hannah asking for her help in solving the murder of her sister. The murder happened 25 years prior in the same small town.
I would not put this book in the psychological thriller genre. There are no twisty shockers like you’d see in a thriller, but there is mystery and suspense. I would put this in the crime fiction category. It didn’t diminish how much I enjoyed reading it.
The story is told in alternating POV’s - Rachel and Hannah - plus a few episodes of the podcast sprinkled in between the short chapters. I love short chapters, but they can be a blessing and a curse - especially if you’re trying to go to bed at 2:00 AM but can’t stop reading!
Highly recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Megan Goldin for my advanced copy to read and review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 13,014 reviews