Our Take

The Night Before is Lisa Jackson firing on all cylinders—a twisty psychological thriller that keeps you second-guessing every character and every memory. Jackson excels at creating unreliable narrators, and Caitlyn's fragmented recollections add genuine tension as readers try to determine whether she's a victim, a killer, or something in between. The southern Gothic atmosphere drips with humidity and menace, creating a claustrophobic sense that danger lurks around every corner. What elevates this beyond standard thriller fare is Jackson's deft handling of multiple suspects and red herrings without ever feeling manipulative. The pacing is relentless, with short chapters and cliffhangers that make this a genuine page-turner. While some twists can be anticipated by seasoned thriller readers, Jackson plants enough genuine surprises to keep even veterans engaged. The romance element between Caitlyn and Adam adds complexity without derailing the suspense. Fans of The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides and Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris will appreciate Jackson's blend of psychological depth and nail-biting suspense. Perfect for readers seeking a propulsive thriller with atmospheric southern setting and a protagonist fighting to prove her innocence while questioning her own sanity.