"The Night Swim" by Megan Goldin is a riveting psychological thriller that explores the dark underbelly of small-town America. The story follows Rachel Krall, a true-crime podcast host, as she investigates a high-profile rape case in the seaside town of Nebington. Goldin masterfully weaves together two timelines, one following Rachel's investigation and the other recounting the harrowing story of Jenny, a local teenager who was assaulted by a popular athlete. The parallel narratives create a gripping tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, as Rachel uncovers the town's secrets and Jenny fights for justice. One of the book's greatest strengths is its exploration of the complexities of sexual assault cases, including the ways in which victims are often doubted and villainized. Goldin handles these themes with sensitivity and nuance, never shying away from the harsh realities of the justice system. At its core, "The Night Swim" is a story about power and privilege, and the ways in which they can be used to silence and intimidate. It's a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers questioning their own assumptions and biases. Goldin's writing is sharp and evocative, bringing the town of Nebington to life in vivid detail. The characters are well-developed and complex, with distinct voices and motivations. Rachel, in particular, is a compelling protagonist, equal parts determined and vulnerable. Overall, "The Night Swim" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and true-crime narratives. It's a gripping and thought-provoking novel that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient
If you enjoyed the psychological thriller aspect of 'The Night Swim', you'll love 'The Silent Patient'. This book tells the story of Alicia, a woman who refuses to speak after allegedly murdering her husband, and Theo, a criminal psychotherapist who is determined to uncover the truth.
Learn MoreA.J. Finn
The Woman in the Window
Fans of 'The Night Swim' will appreciate the unreliable narrator and claustrophobic atmosphere in 'The Woman in the Window'. This book follows Anna, a recluse who spends her days spying on her neighbors, as she becomes embroiled in a tangled web of lies and deceit.
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The Good Daughter
For readers who enjoyed the small-town setting and legal drama of 'The Night Swim', 'The Good Daughter' is a great choice. This book tells the story of Charlotte, a lawyer who must confront her past when a violent crime rocks her hometown and forces her to reconnect with her estranged father.
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Final Girls
If you liked the suspenseful and twisty plot of 'The Night Swim', you'll enjoy 'Final Girls'. This book follows Quincy, the lone survivor of a brutal massacre, as she is targeted by a mysterious figure and must confront her past in order to survive.
Learn MoreB.A. Paris
Behind Closed Doors
Fans of 'The Night Swim' will appreciate the domestic thriller aspect of 'Behind Closed Doors'. This book tells the story of Grace, a newlywed who soon realizes that her husband is not who he seems and that their perfect marriage is built on a foundation of lies and manipulation.
Learn MoreLeila Slimani
The Perfect Nanny
For readers who appreciated the dark and twisted themes in 'The Night Swim', 'The Perfect Nanny' is a must-read. This book tells the story of Louise, a seemingly perfect nanny who becomes increasingly unhinged and threatens the safety of the family she works for.
Learn MoreRiley Sager
The Last Time I Lied
If you enjoyed the summer camp setting and unreliable narrator in 'The Night Swim', you'll love 'The Last Time I Lied'. This book follows Emma, a woman who returns to the summer camp where her two cabin mates disappeared fifteen years earlier, as she uncovers a series of shocking secrets that threaten to upend her entire life.
Learn MoreJane Harper
The Dry
For readers who enjoyed the small-town setting and legal drama of 'The Night Swim', 'The Dry' is a great choice. This book follows Aaron, a federal agent who returns to his hometown to investigate the murder of his childhood friend, as he uncovers a series of shocking secrets that threaten to upend the entire community.
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