Summary
In his 2009 standalone thriller Swimsuit, James Patterson explores the collision between beauty and brutality. Set against the glamorous world of high-fashion modeling, the novel follows an LA Times reporter investigating the disappearance of a beautiful supermodel during a photo shoot in Hawaii. As the case unfolds, it leads into much darker territory involving a sadistic killer terrorizing the island paradise. A bestseller, Swimsuit showcases Patterson's trademark fast-paced storytelling and ability to craft page-turning suspense.
Plot
In Swimsuit, Kim McDaniels, a beautiful supermodel known to the public as Syd, vanishes during a photo shoot at a glamorous hotel on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Her worried parents immediately travel to the island to search for their daughter, fearing the worst. As the local police struggle to make progress on the case, Ben Hawkins, a former cop turned reporter for the Los Angeles Times, arrives to investigate Syd's disappearance.
Ben finds himself frustrated by the incompetence of the Hawaiian police force and decides to launch his own inquiry into what happened to the missing model. As he digs deeper, Ben receives a shocking and unexpected visit that presents him with an impossible dilemma—one that could provide him with the story of his career but at a terrible moral cost.
Meanwhile, the story shifts to reveal the perspective of the killer, who is meticulously planning his next “production” involving another victim. The murderer views his horrific crimes as artistic performances and expects to deliver his best work yet to his twisted audience of one.
Set against the backdrop of a tropical paradise, Swimsuit unfolds as a tense cat-and-mouse game between the determined reporter and the depraved killer. As Ben races to uncover the truth and potentially save lives, the beautiful scenery of Hawaii provides a chilling contrast to the gruesome events taking place just beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic vacation destination.
Themes
Beauty and danger in paradise
Pursuit of justice against evil
Media sensationalism and exploitation
Family bonds tested by tragedy
Psychological manipulation and fear
Clash between appearance and reality
Investigative diligence and persistence
Determination to uncover the truth in the face of obstacles
Setting
Swimsuit takes place primarily in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Maui. The tropical paradise provides a stark contrast to the dark and sinister plot, with its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts serving as an unlikely backdrop for the gruesome crimes. The “most glamorous hotel in Hawaii” is prominently featured as the location of the initial disappearance, emphasizing the juxtaposition between the idyllic setting and the horrific events that transpire.
While anchored in Hawaii, the story also has connections to Los Angeles, where Ben Hawkins works as a reporter for the LA Times. This creates a link between the isolated tropical setting and the bustling mainland, highlighting the far-reaching implications of the case. The contrast between these two locales adds depth to the narrative, illustrating how the horrors unfolding in paradise can captivate and affect those thousands of miles away.
Though the exact year is not stated, Swimsuit appears to be set in the early 21st century. The presence of modern technology, such as cell phones used for the terrifying calls to the victim's parents, allows Patterson to explore current themes and anxieties, making the story feel immediate to readers.
Characters
Ben Hawkins: A former cop turned reporter for the Los Angeles Times. Ben is assigned to cover the disappearance of Kim McDaniels in Hawaii. He becomes deeply involved in the investigation, driven by both his journalistic instincts and a desire to help the victim's family. Ben finds himself drawn into a dangerous game with the killer, pushing him to cross ethical lines in pursuit of the story and justice.
Henri Benoit: The sophisticated and ruthless antagonist of the novel. Benoit is a former model turned serial killer who films his victims' deaths for wealthy clients. He is highly intelligent, meticulous in his planning, and utterly without remorse. Benoit views his murders as artistic productions and takes great pride in his work.
Kim McDaniels: A beautiful supermodel, aka Syd, who disappears during a photoshoot in Hawaii. Though she is the inciting incident for the story, Kim has limited direct appearances in the novel. Her disappearance sets the entire plot in motion and drives the actions of the other characters.
Mr. and Mrs. McDaniels: Kim's parents who travel to Hawaii to search for their missing daughter. They are desperate to find Kim and become increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress in the investigation. Their anguish and determination add emotional depth to the story.
Detective John Kanekoa: The lead investigator on Kim's disappearance case. Kanekoa is portrayed as somewhat incompetent, which leads Ben to take a more active role in the investigation. His ineffectiveness serves to heighten the tension and urgency of the search.
Amanda: Ben's girlfriend, who becomes concerned about his obsession with the case. She provides a grounding influence for Ben and represents the life he risks losing as he delves deeper into the investigation.
Quick facts
Swimsuit was co-written by Maxine Paetro, though James Patterson is often listed as the sole author.
Swimsuit was published in 2009 and became a #1 New York Times bestseller.
The story is set in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Maui, showcasing the contrast between paradise and horror.
The main character, Ben Hawkins, is a former cop turned reporter—a common profession for Patterson protagonists.
Patterson based some elements of the story on real-life cases of models who had gone missing.
The novel's antagonist is a serial killer who films his murders, adding a voyeuristic element to the plot.
Swimsuit marked a departure from Patterson's typical detective series, functioning as a standalone thriller.
The novel features Patterson's trademark short chapters and cliffhangers.
Swimsuit received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its fast pace and others criticizing its graphic violence. Booklist, for example, called it a “slick, exciting thriller” while Kirkus Reviews described it as “lurid.”
An audiobook version was narrated by Christian Rummel and Suzanne Toren.
About the Author
James Patterson is one of the most prolific and successful authors in the world. With a career spanning several decades, he has created numerous beloved fictional characters and bestselling thriller series, including Alex Cross, Michael Bennett, Doc Savage, the Women's Murder Club, and Maximum Ride. He is also known for his collaborations with other authors and high-profile figures, most notably co-authoring The President Is Missing with former President Bill Clinton and Run, Rose, Run with country music icon Dolly Parton.
Patterson has shown a deep commitment to promoting literacy and education, donating more than $100 million to libraries, the arts, and various educational initiatives. This philanthropic effort underscores his dedication to fostering a love of reading among children and supporting the broader cultural landscape. Throughout his career, Patterson has received numerous accolades, including an Edgar Award, 10 Emmy Awards, and the National Humanities Medal. He is also the author of an autobiography, James Patterson by James Patterson.
