The Night Swim by Megan Goldin

This mystery/crime fiction novel was fast-paced, absorbing and very timely. Even though the topic of rape will always be divisive because of its "he said, she said" nature, and despite it being a common subject of many recent books, this had a different feel to it right from the beginning. I was hooked immediately.

Rachel Krall is a well-known journalist who has made it big hosting true crime podcasts. She's even had a bit of success helping to find justice in a couple of previous episodes. This time she's traveled to Neapolis, NC, to cover a rape trial. A star athlete, a possible future Olympic-level swimmer named Scott Blair, has been accused by Kelly Moore, a 16-year-old local high-school girl. During season three of  Rachel's "Guilty or Not Guilty" podcast, she plans to attend each day of the trial, interview and investigate, and record her observations nightly for her vast audience. Upon arrival, however, Rachel is confronted with a very strange request in the form of a note left on her car windshield. The message is from Hannah, the younger sister of Jenny Stills, who died over 25 years ago in this small town. Hannah believes that her sister did not drown accidentally in the ocean but was murdered. Rachel is trying to concentrate on all of the hoopla surrounding the rape trial, but is drawn into Hannah's story and becomes convinced that there are some big questions about what really happened to Jenny. As the testimony in the trial comes to a close and the verdict is reached, will Rachel also be able to help Hannah find the answers she needs? NO SPOILERS.

Dare I wish that there will be a follow-up to this book with perhaps future podcast seasons featuring Rachel Krall? I really enjoyed how the author relayed the courtroom aspect and how the character of Rachel tried to remain objective in her reporting despite strong feelings about what she was hearing. Even though at times I found it hard to believe how Rachel insinuated herself into many of the situations and got people to give her pertinent information, I just went with it and tried not to over-analyze and nitpick. I want to know more Rachel personally, and I do hope to "hear" more of her podcast!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend. I did read THE ESCAPE ROOM by this author and plan to look for future titles.

This is a standalone and not part of any series -- yet?

Genre - mystery, crime, rape, murder, trial