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The Mole People
Alone and tormented by her own mind, a young woman must confront her darkest fears, or be swallowed by them—forever.
In the glittering city of Las Vegas, where fortunes are won and lost on a single roll of the dice, there exists a world unseen by the pleasure-seekers above. There, a community of outcasts can be found. They dwell in the shadows, beneath the thin veneer of glamor, far from the twinkling lights and towering casinos.
Plagued by schizophrenia and alienated from her loved ones, Suzie Franks abandons her college life in Oregon, ending up in this dark world beneath Sin City. Here, amidst the threats underground, her struggle for survival becomes its own high-stakes game, with escape the ultimate prize.
But the odds always seem to be stacked against her, or perhaps that's just her troubled mind playing tricks. Faced with adversaries both real and imagined, can Suzie find a way out of the tunnels and overcome her demons? Or will she succumb to the crushing darkness of her new world among The Mole People?
In the glittering city of Las Vegas, where fortunes are won and lost on a single roll of the dice, there exists a world unseen by the pleasure-seekers above. There, a community of outcasts can be found. They dwell in the shadows, beneath the thin veneer of glamor, far from the twinkling lights and towering casinos.
Plagued by schizophrenia and alienated from her loved ones, Suzie Franks abandons her college life in Oregon, ending up in this dark world beneath Sin City. Here, amidst the threats underground, her struggle for survival becomes its own high-stakes game, with escape the ultimate prize.
But the odds always seem to be stacked against her, or perhaps that's just her troubled mind playing tricks. Faced with adversaries both real and imagined, can Suzie find a way out of the tunnels and overcome her demons? Or will she succumb to the crushing darkness of her new world among The Mole People?
172 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2024
4 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Landt
2 books214 followersKevin Landt lives under a roof in a sun-drenched city. He devotes one third of his life to lying horizontally in an unconscious state. The remaining time is spent obeying his publicist, who insists that every contemporary author must send out a newsletter. Kevin has a dog and a cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
September 18, 2024
This is one of those books that I just could not put down. Even away from it, I couldn’t wait to get back to it.
College girl Suzie suffers from schizophrenia, and constantly see’s and hears people, who don’t exist. One day, leaving hospital, after almost losing her life, she decides that the only thing that will keep her safe, and everyone else, is to leave Oregon. She’s afraid that if she stays, her loved ones will force her into a mental health facility.
Finding herself in Las Vegas, she wanders into a rundown casino, where she meets the sleazy ‘Wonderman’ who offers her a place to stay…under the city, down in the rain tunnels, with ‘The Mole People’. As her mental health and drug addiction gets worse. She soon realises, nothing comes for free, and ‘Wonderman’ will want payment, for providing protection and somewhere to live.
This is fast paced, emotional, and tells the story of an umbrella of various, accompanying, mental health issues.
My heart hurt for Suzie, and for her friends and family who try to help her.
Thanks to Kevin Landt, Ryland Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me with this free ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
College girl Suzie suffers from schizophrenia, and constantly see’s and hears people, who don’t exist. One day, leaving hospital, after almost losing her life, she decides that the only thing that will keep her safe, and everyone else, is to leave Oregon. She’s afraid that if she stays, her loved ones will force her into a mental health facility.
Finding herself in Las Vegas, she wanders into a rundown casino, where she meets the sleazy ‘Wonderman’ who offers her a place to stay…under the city, down in the rain tunnels, with ‘The Mole People’. As her mental health and drug addiction gets worse. She soon realises, nothing comes for free, and ‘Wonderman’ will want payment, for providing protection and somewhere to live.
This is fast paced, emotional, and tells the story of an umbrella of various, accompanying, mental health issues.
My heart hurt for Suzie, and for her friends and family who try to help her.
Thanks to Kevin Landt, Ryland Publishing, and NetGalley for providing me with this free ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 29, 2024
The Mole People by Kevin Landt was an interesting read about mental health, addiction, and the dark side of Sin City, This book hit home for me because I have family who suffers from the same condition and I know too well how hard it is to help a loved one whose mind is playing tricks on them.
Suzie Franks not only is facing all the anxiety that comes with college, but she is also battling her own mind with schizophrenia. When her boyfriend and Mom try to get her help, she is convinced that they are trying to hurt her. She runs off on her own to get out from under their control only to find herself under the control of those who really wish her harm. How will she ever know who trust when she can't trust her own mind? Eventually she finds herself a new family, the Mole People who live underneath Sin city, they see her vulnerability and take her in to protect her from life on the streets. But even there things aren't what they seem and she is alone fighting what's real and imagined.
The book had an interesting premise and I enjoyed the glimpses we see inside her mind, I only wish the book had been a little longer and focused more on what was going on inside of Suzie's mind.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kevin Landt who sent me this book to read for an honest review.
Suzie Franks not only is facing all the anxiety that comes with college, but she is also battling her own mind with schizophrenia. When her boyfriend and Mom try to get her help, she is convinced that they are trying to hurt her. She runs off on her own to get out from under their control only to find herself under the control of those who really wish her harm. How will she ever know who trust when she can't trust her own mind? Eventually she finds herself a new family, the Mole People who live underneath Sin city, they see her vulnerability and take her in to protect her from life on the streets. But even there things aren't what they seem and she is alone fighting what's real and imagined.
The book had an interesting premise and I enjoyed the glimpses we see inside her mind, I only wish the book had been a little longer and focused more on what was going on inside of Suzie's mind.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kevin Landt who sent me this book to read for an honest review.
August 29, 2024
This book takes real life horrors and turns them into a compelling and tense book about people on the "outside" of the norm.
Our protagonist suffers from schizophrenia. She has both visual and auditory hallucinations but refuses the necessary help she desperately needs. Following a violent incident at her college, she checks herself out of a hospital, believing her mother and boyfriend are out to harm her, and runs away. She eventually winds up in Las Vegas and is introduced to the mole people, those who live in the sewers and tunnels beneath the city.
She's going to find out that her worst nightmares are far from behind her. This is an emotional book which really does a great job of describing someone with a severe mental illness and also those in the periphery of society. Those we don't see and whose lives don't seem to hold the same importance as others.
These real world events create a terrifying atmosphere because they hit so close to home. And they're a reminder that the true monsters are always human.
This book is bleak and keeps getting darker for the protagonist creating a sense of dread. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
Our protagonist suffers from schizophrenia. She has both visual and auditory hallucinations but refuses the necessary help she desperately needs. Following a violent incident at her college, she checks herself out of a hospital, believing her mother and boyfriend are out to harm her, and runs away. She eventually winds up in Las Vegas and is introduced to the mole people, those who live in the sewers and tunnels beneath the city.
She's going to find out that her worst nightmares are far from behind her. This is an emotional book which really does a great job of describing someone with a severe mental illness and also those in the periphery of society. Those we don't see and whose lives don't seem to hold the same importance as others.
These real world events create a terrifying atmosphere because they hit so close to home. And they're a reminder that the true monsters are always human.
This book is bleak and keeps getting darker for the protagonist creating a sense of dread. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
March 12, 2024
The Mole People is a captivating study of an intelligent young woman who is plagued by schizophrenia and paranoia. The author portrays her difficulties in dealing with her mental problems very poignantly. Suzie knows on one level that decisions she makes in lashing out at people who have her best interests at heart are harmful and that her fears aren't grounded in reality, but on a more visceral level her delusions are all too real and she has no choice but to run away, both literally and through drug and physical self-abuse. She ends up in a strange society of outcasts underneath Las Vegas (the titular mole people), headed for a seemingly inevitable dead end, even while those who care for her continue searching and hoping for her salvation. It's a very moving story and points out the lack of a good support system for troubled people in our society. Suzie has a supportive mother, a dedicated boyfriend, a helpful college roommate, and others in her corner, and it makes you wonder how people on their own can even try to cope at all. It's a thoughtful book, and I recommend it.
(I was provided a copy of this fine novel for review by the author.)
(I was provided a copy of this fine novel for review by the author.)
August 27, 2024
The Mole People is a very deeply emotional and intense book about a girl with schizophrenia. The story dives into her life struggles with mental illness and where it leads her into darkness.
This book is very well written and touches on the difficult topics of love, grief, addiction & mental illness. Dealing with mental illness can be scary and this story definitely brought about some bad situations that Suzie had to deal with and try to overcome.
The author did a great job with this book and I really enjoyed it!
Thank you to Kevin Landt and NetGalley for an ecopy of this book.
This book is very well written and touches on the difficult topics of love, grief, addiction & mental illness. Dealing with mental illness can be scary and this story definitely brought about some bad situations that Suzie had to deal with and try to overcome.
The author did a great job with this book and I really enjoyed it!
Thank you to Kevin Landt and NetGalley for an ecopy of this book.
September 23, 2024
This short novel is eye-opening regarding the struggles of those living with mental illness and their loved ones.
It tells the story of Suzie, a young teenager with schizophrenia, for whom each day is a battle against herself in the hope of living a "normal" life : attending school, having a boyfriend, making friends. Yet, despite the love and support of those around her, her life takes an unexpected and dark turn.
I really enjoyed the fast-paced writing style, and the character descriptions vividly convey Suzie's disturbed mind while also painting a powerful picture of the helplessness felt by those close to her.
Thanks to Kevin Landt for a chance to read this book for free. I’m leaving this review of my own accord.
It tells the story of Suzie, a young teenager with schizophrenia, for whom each day is a battle against herself in the hope of living a "normal" life : attending school, having a boyfriend, making friends. Yet, despite the love and support of those around her, her life takes an unexpected and dark turn.
I really enjoyed the fast-paced writing style, and the character descriptions vividly convey Suzie's disturbed mind while also painting a powerful picture of the helplessness felt by those close to her.
Thanks to Kevin Landt for a chance to read this book for free. I’m leaving this review of my own accord.
September 1, 2024
The Mole people is quite hard to review – but not because there is anything wrong with the book, its just a relatively straightforward solid piece of writing. The structure is a little bold and interesting: the first half is predominantly about the MC and their mental health struggles, before we even get to the ‘Mole People.’ However this works well as it helps build attachment and grounding for our MC although it does feel more like a biographical genre, whereas the second half is more like a cult thriller.
I’m not sure much about Landt’s background but the author seems fairly in touch with mental health struggles and what that can be like for our MC and how such vulnerabilities can lead a person into a dangerous situation. There are also some interesting albeit brief subplots with the ‘Mole people’ that to my mind just elevated the story beyond being melodramatic or stereotyped.
Finally the last scene gave me a phobia of drowning, Landt can sure pen a vivid sequence of events, which can be used for terror, or sympathy or whatever the story needs!
I’m not sure much about Landt’s background but the author seems fairly in touch with mental health struggles and what that can be like for our MC and how such vulnerabilities can lead a person into a dangerous situation. There are also some interesting albeit brief subplots with the ‘Mole people’ that to my mind just elevated the story beyond being melodramatic or stereotyped.
Finally the last scene gave me a phobia of drowning, Landt can sure pen a vivid sequence of events, which can be used for terror, or sympathy or whatever the story needs!
August 15, 2024
The Mole people by Kevin Land is about Susie who has suffered from one type of mental illness or another since a young child and now she is suffering with schizophrenia thanks to her loving mom she gets in to college but cannot cope even when she finds a loving boyfriend the line between her reality and delusions is more than Susie can cope with she eventually becomes one of the mini homeless under Las Vegas living in the tunnels and some she meet‘s are friends and some she meets are foes.. This book was a tough story to read I felt so bad for Susie and so badly wanted to tell her to go back home but alas this is fiction and so I had to ride it until the ride was done and OMG this was a good but at times a very sad story. I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review and this is it it is a good book and one I recommend to those who love stories about downcast protagonist in mental illness.
December 23, 2024
A sympathetic exploration of mental illness and addiction, The Mole People does a good job of conveying the despair and confusion that can so quickly overwhelm a seemingly normal life.
The depiction of schizophrenia felt genuine and didn’t feel either exploitative or sensationalized, which I appreciated. And the pacing, the way time became uncertain and nefarious, worked well to convey the experience of our main character. Additionally, while most of the narrative followed our main character, jumping for a few paragraphs here and there to the perspective of other characters was effective, it never felt jarring but felt like it was opening up the world in useful ways.
So while there were things I admired about the story, it still wasn’t a standout for me. The writing felt clinical, both in terms of how things were described and also the dialogue. Very little of the dialogue felt naturalistic, instead it felt boxy and constructed. This contrasts with the internal dialogues our main character suffers through, which did feel genuine. Additionally, the characters didn’t feel particularly lived-in or multi-dimensional. Our main character had a lot going on, and there was definitely effort made at making her more than just her mental illness. And, as she lost herself to her illness and addition her world did get smaller and less stable. So, I didn’t mind how singular her character was. But all of the ancillary characters felt equally singular, not complex or genuine. They felt like they were just incredibly convenient for the plot, and that feeling also seemed to pervade the second and third acts, just convenience and lack of narrative or character chances being taken. It is hard not to compare a story like this to the novel A Requiem for a Dream, and other similar novels about addiction and despair, and those novels show you can explore characters so singularly-focused on their own destruction yet still create around them a world, in terms of environment and ancillary characters, that feel painfully realized and heartbreakingly genuine. In those comparisons this story just doesn’t feel like it has the nuance I would hope for.
This isn’t a bad story, it is a quick read and a compelling and sympathetic look at mental illness from the inside out. While there are a certain number of narrative conveniences taken, especially in the conclusion, the situation the main character finds herself in is, frighteningly, very possible. The relationships between mental illness, addiction, being unhoused, and experiencing victimization and abuse are all too very real, and this story is blunt with its addressing of them without every feeling sleazy or exploitative. The dialogue may feel clinical but the pacing and tone feel accurate and work for the story. It didn’t work for me, in the end, but I can see how other readers might resonate with it more.
(Rounded up from 2.5)
I want to thank the author, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The depiction of schizophrenia felt genuine and didn’t feel either exploitative or sensationalized, which I appreciated. And the pacing, the way time became uncertain and nefarious, worked well to convey the experience of our main character. Additionally, while most of the narrative followed our main character, jumping for a few paragraphs here and there to the perspective of other characters was effective, it never felt jarring but felt like it was opening up the world in useful ways.
So while there were things I admired about the story, it still wasn’t a standout for me. The writing felt clinical, both in terms of how things were described and also the dialogue. Very little of the dialogue felt naturalistic, instead it felt boxy and constructed. This contrasts with the internal dialogues our main character suffers through, which did feel genuine. Additionally, the characters didn’t feel particularly lived-in or multi-dimensional. Our main character had a lot going on, and there was definitely effort made at making her more than just her mental illness. And, as she lost herself to her illness and addition her world did get smaller and less stable. So, I didn’t mind how singular her character was. But all of the ancillary characters felt equally singular, not complex or genuine. They felt like they were just incredibly convenient for the plot, and that feeling also seemed to pervade the second and third acts, just convenience and lack of narrative or character chances being taken. It is hard not to compare a story like this to the novel A Requiem for a Dream, and other similar novels about addiction and despair, and those novels show you can explore characters so singularly-focused on their own destruction yet still create around them a world, in terms of environment and ancillary characters, that feel painfully realized and heartbreakingly genuine. In those comparisons this story just doesn’t feel like it has the nuance I would hope for.
This isn’t a bad story, it is a quick read and a compelling and sympathetic look at mental illness from the inside out. While there are a certain number of narrative conveniences taken, especially in the conclusion, the situation the main character finds herself in is, frighteningly, very possible. The relationships between mental illness, addiction, being unhoused, and experiencing victimization and abuse are all too very real, and this story is blunt with its addressing of them without every feeling sleazy or exploitative. The dialogue may feel clinical but the pacing and tone feel accurate and work for the story. It didn’t work for me, in the end, but I can see how other readers might resonate with it more.
(Rounded up from 2.5)
I want to thank the author, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2024
I was initially hesitant about "The Mole People," but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. Kevin Landt's writing is beautifully unique, making the reading experience feel like art. His portrayal of Suzie, a mentally ill young girl, is raw and breathtaking.
Landt masterfully makes you care about Suzie, her past, and the underground world she navigates. However, the plot felt a bit convenient at times, especially with the coincidental appearances of people from her old life during her escape attempts.
Despite this, "The Mole People" is one of the most moving books I’ve read. I can’t recommend it enough—this book deserves to go viral! I could easily see it being adapted into a movie.
Landt masterfully makes you care about Suzie, her past, and the underground world she navigates. However, the plot felt a bit convenient at times, especially with the coincidental appearances of people from her old life during her escape attempts.
Despite this, "The Mole People" is one of the most moving books I’ve read. I can’t recommend it enough—this book deserves to go viral! I could easily see it being adapted into a movie.
January 13, 2024
An interesting look into the lives of the mole people who live underground in Vegas. I was rooting for Suzie the whole book! Wow, what trials and tribulations she had to endure, and how quickly lives can change.
This was my first book by this author. 3.5* rounded up to 4!
Thanks to BookSirens - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was my first book by this author. 3.5* rounded up to 4!
Thanks to BookSirens - I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2024
The Mole People is a fast paced absorbing read. Suzie is a bright student in college at an Oregon university. A bit of an odd duck she stands out among her peers. Perpetuating her standing are the voices she hears in her head. Battling mental health issues and not taking her medication, she flees to
Las Vegas to find solace among other 'lost souls'. In the dark tunnels under the city she finds a different kind of family to support her craving for drugs and live freely. Everything comes with a price. This riveting read covers addiction, mental heath, and unconditional love.
Chopin's Ballade No. 1 was mentioned throughout. It's fitting as with the ballade, the story starts off softly, chaos ensues, and ending with a comforting conclusion. It's a beautiful analogy.
Thanks to NetGalley and the very talented Kevin Landt for a copy.
Las Vegas to find solace among other 'lost souls'. In the dark tunnels under the city she finds a different kind of family to support her craving for drugs and live freely. Everything comes with a price. This riveting read covers addiction, mental heath, and unconditional love.
Chopin's Ballade No. 1 was mentioned throughout. It's fitting as with the ballade, the story starts off softly, chaos ensues, and ending with a comforting conclusion. It's a beautiful analogy.
Thanks to NetGalley and the very talented Kevin Landt for a copy.
September 2, 2024
Great book! Very well detailed, I could picture literally everything that was happening. The ending actually caught me off guard. I wasn’t expecting the ending!
August 15, 2024
The Mole People follows Suzie, a young schizophrenic, through college and life on the streets. The trials and tribulations of a mental health problem, drugs and self preservation in the harsh climate of homelessness.
This story was tragic, sad and emotive, yet heartwarming at the same time. I cried for Suzie, I yearned for a better life for her and I was angry for her at the way she was treated. It portrays a realistic scenario and covers topics of self harm, hallucinations and the importance of a good support network when dealing with mental health problems.
A very raw read, that I feel a bit strange about saying I “enjoyed”.
“The voices would keep up their incessant demands, until Suzie gave in, hoping her obedience would finally silence them. She often felt like an intruder in a story she didn’t understand, as if she were performing her actions mechanically, someone else pulling the strings”
Many thanks to Kevin Landt for reaching out and inviting me to read his story.
This story was tragic, sad and emotive, yet heartwarming at the same time. I cried for Suzie, I yearned for a better life for her and I was angry for her at the way she was treated. It portrays a realistic scenario and covers topics of self harm, hallucinations and the importance of a good support network when dealing with mental health problems.
A very raw read, that I feel a bit strange about saying I “enjoyed”.
“The voices would keep up their incessant demands, until Suzie gave in, hoping her obedience would finally silence them. She often felt like an intruder in a story she didn’t understand, as if she were performing her actions mechanically, someone else pulling the strings”
Many thanks to Kevin Landt for reaching out and inviting me to read his story.
August 19, 2024
When Kevin Landt reached out asking if I would read “The Mole People”, who was I to decline?
The reader follows Suzie, starting at a young age. Suzie, who’s been suffering from what seems like a handful of mental health complications. As the reader, you struggle not feeling for her. Suzie seems to be on the mend when she gets into college and finds herself a loving boyfriend, but cannot cope and decides to run away. Going to Vegas, she continues to struggle, causing her to be homeless. It’s there she finds herself tangled up with the mole people underneath Vegas. She meets friends and some might say enemies while in these tunnels.
While this was a heart-wrenching read at times, Kevin Landt knows how to portray Suzie’s struggles in a way that makes the reader want to see more of Suzie, no matter the outcome. I enjoyed this read! At points, I did feel like the plot was a bit slower and hindered my ability to fully get into it and read it in a shorter amount of time. Regardless, I’m excited to read more work from the author in the future.
The reader follows Suzie, starting at a young age. Suzie, who’s been suffering from what seems like a handful of mental health complications. As the reader, you struggle not feeling for her. Suzie seems to be on the mend when she gets into college and finds herself a loving boyfriend, but cannot cope and decides to run away. Going to Vegas, she continues to struggle, causing her to be homeless. It’s there she finds herself tangled up with the mole people underneath Vegas. She meets friends and some might say enemies while in these tunnels.
While this was a heart-wrenching read at times, Kevin Landt knows how to portray Suzie’s struggles in a way that makes the reader want to see more of Suzie, no matter the outcome. I enjoyed this read! At points, I did feel like the plot was a bit slower and hindered my ability to fully get into it and read it in a shorter amount of time. Regardless, I’m excited to read more work from the author in the future.
June 7, 2024
Decent book; 4 out 5 stars.
Convinced by her own mind that everyone she loves is out to get her, Suzie runs away. However, instead of finding peace, solace, and freedom, she finds herself in the even more suffocating and incredibly dangerous underbelly of Las Vegas. Here she quickly discovers she's got more to worry about than the voices in her head, but who can she trust and does she even want to?
I enjoyed this fictionalized look inside the fractured mind of the young lead character. It's enough to grow up and go off to college without any mental struggles. Trying to understand yourself and the world around you is a right of passage. Yet for this story's main character, struggling with mental illness on top of everything else, it was anything but.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this ARC and review opportunity.
Convinced by her own mind that everyone she loves is out to get her, Suzie runs away. However, instead of finding peace, solace, and freedom, she finds herself in the even more suffocating and incredibly dangerous underbelly of Las Vegas. Here she quickly discovers she's got more to worry about than the voices in her head, but who can she trust and does she even want to?
I enjoyed this fictionalized look inside the fractured mind of the young lead character. It's enough to grow up and go off to college without any mental struggles. Trying to understand yourself and the world around you is a right of passage. Yet for this story's main character, struggling with mental illness on top of everything else, it was anything but.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this ARC and review opportunity.
June 5, 2024
This is a crazy, fascinating look at schizophrenia and its ravages on the mind! Starting in 6th grade, Suzie is teased by her peers and begins cutting herself. Now in her 20's she's been diagnosed with the illness and is on medication which she often chooses not to take. Boyfriend Robbie is kind to her even after she throws a chair at roommate, Andrea. Discovering pot and vodka makes her happy and she flushes her meds and heads to Vegas where she inadvertently meets Wonderman and the tunnels beneath the city where darkness lurks and anything goes! The novel is dark, often creepy, but it's a clever look at the mind and all its memories and fluctuations--and a message to us all: get help if you need it!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
August 28, 2024
In his gripping new novel, Kevin Landt delves into the turbulent psyche of Suzie, a young woman whose paranoia drives her to flee from the people she loves. Desperate for peace and liberation, Suzie escapes to the neon-lit chaos of Las Vegas, only to find herself entangled in an even darker and more perilous world. As she navigates this treacherous underbelly, Suzie faces not only the terrifying realities of her surroundings but also the haunting voices within her own mind. The question looms: who can she trust, and does she even want to?
Kevin masterfully explores the complexities of mental illness through Suzie's harrowing journey, offering a raw and compelling portrait of a young woman grappling with both internal and external demons. The narrative vividly captures the disorienting struggle of coming of age while contending with mental health challenges, making Suzie's journey both poignant and thought-provoking.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advanced reading copy of this intense and introspective novel.
Kevin masterfully explores the complexities of mental illness through Suzie's harrowing journey, offering a raw and compelling portrait of a young woman grappling with both internal and external demons. The narrative vividly captures the disorienting struggle of coming of age while contending with mental health challenges, making Suzie's journey both poignant and thought-provoking.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advanced reading copy of this intense and introspective novel.
September 16, 2024
A young girl takes a dark emotional journey into the depths of instability in her mental health in this disturbing account of her downward spiral. This book had me feeling several things. I felt the uncomfortableness that comes when you don’t know how to respond or handle someone’s mental illness. I felt the overwhelming sense of helplessness of everyone around her because they could not make the choice for her to take the steps she needed to take to get better. I felt the drenching sadness and desperation to find some kind of normalcy when she felt no one around her could truly help. And I felt the defiance and determination of her will to survive, overcome her illness, and LIVE when she realized that she had to at all cost. This was a very moving and emotional tale of the battles of mental illness. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but more so, felt like it did a great job immersing the readers into empathy when confronted with the struggles of mental illness. I received an arc copy of the book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2024
Fantastic fast-paced emotional gut-wrenching journey in the life of a schizophrenic. I had no idea that Mole People existed. The Mole People takes you on quite the emotional ride and leaves you wanting more, needing more, in a good way.
How the author packed so much in a mere 180 pages is mind-blowing.
How the author packed so much in a mere 180 pages is mind-blowing.
January 31, 2025
A young woman struggling with schizophrenia leaves her old life behind and finds herself in an underground community beneath Las Vegas. Facing both real and imagined threats, she must confront her fears and find a way to escape the darkness that surrounds her.
This book delves into a topic that many of us are, unfortunately, all too familiar with. Chances are, you know someone who has ended up in a situation similar to the one described in this story.
As a member of the military, I have had the opportunity to travel extensively across the United States. During my travels, I have encountered numerous individuals living on the streets in areas where homelessness is a prevalent issue. Through personal experiences, I have met many people who are struggling to survive in uncertain circumstances, often going unnoticed by society. These individuals have found themselves in dire situations through no fault of their own, as life has simply gotten away from them, or they lack a support system to lean on. Additionally, I have encountered individuals who have turned to illegal substances as a means of coping with their challenges, as well as veterans who have fallen through the cracks due to mental or physical health issues.
This book truly resonated with me on a deep level. Despite being a short story, it was incredibly difficult to put down. The characters were so well-developed that I found myself empathizing with their struggles and contemplating what I would do if they were my friends or family members.
The narrative touches on themes of substance use, body image issues, and mental health struggles, all of which are portrayed in a realistic and relatable manner. The vivid descriptions of the environment further enhance the authenticity of the story. Upon finishing the book, I was left with a sense of hope and optimism, particularly in regard to the positive ending for the main character, Suzie. I found myself rooting for her to overcome her challenges and seek the help she needed.
I devoured this book in a matter of hours, unable to tear myself away from the gripping storyline. I highly recommend giving this book a read and forming your own opinion. If you enjoy thought-provoking reads that offer a glimpse into the lives of others, this book is must-read. It will leave you breathless and leave you pondering.
Thank you, Ryland Publishing and Kevin Landt, for the ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book delves into a topic that many of us are, unfortunately, all too familiar with. Chances are, you know someone who has ended up in a situation similar to the one described in this story.
As a member of the military, I have had the opportunity to travel extensively across the United States. During my travels, I have encountered numerous individuals living on the streets in areas where homelessness is a prevalent issue. Through personal experiences, I have met many people who are struggling to survive in uncertain circumstances, often going unnoticed by society. These individuals have found themselves in dire situations through no fault of their own, as life has simply gotten away from them, or they lack a support system to lean on. Additionally, I have encountered individuals who have turned to illegal substances as a means of coping with their challenges, as well as veterans who have fallen through the cracks due to mental or physical health issues.
This book truly resonated with me on a deep level. Despite being a short story, it was incredibly difficult to put down. The characters were so well-developed that I found myself empathizing with their struggles and contemplating what I would do if they were my friends or family members.
The narrative touches on themes of substance use, body image issues, and mental health struggles, all of which are portrayed in a realistic and relatable manner. The vivid descriptions of the environment further enhance the authenticity of the story. Upon finishing the book, I was left with a sense of hope and optimism, particularly in regard to the positive ending for the main character, Suzie. I found myself rooting for her to overcome her challenges and seek the help she needed.
I devoured this book in a matter of hours, unable to tear myself away from the gripping storyline. I highly recommend giving this book a read and forming your own opinion. If you enjoy thought-provoking reads that offer a glimpse into the lives of others, this book is must-read. It will leave you breathless and leave you pondering.
Thank you, Ryland Publishing and Kevin Landt, for the ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2024
Suzie has schizophrenia. Her life is not an easy one. When she is on her medication the voices stop but she sees a weight gain she does not like. When she doesn't take her medication the voices are so loud and will not leave her alone until she lashes out, whether it be on her peers or herself. After deciding that everyone is against her, Suzie leaves Oregon and travels to Las Vegas. There she encounters Wonderman, a person who has a place for Suzie to rest her tired self. Wonderman brings Suzie to "the tunnels" where she meets all sorts of Mole People and like her, each one has a story/secret; some people are good and some are bad but can Suzie decipher between the two before it's too late?
I read this one one sitting. It drew me in from the first page. Suzie is such a multi-dimensional character and this story really opened up a door on how mental health can change quickly and how it can affect someone in various ways; it also shows how it can affect loved ones too. This story made my heart break for Suzie and her family at times. It opened my eyes up to a world most of us have read about (tunnels and mole people) in a way that made me genuinely worry for Suzie. The description of the environment in the tunnels was fantastic - I could almost smell the tunnels and envision their condition.
This was such a different read for me and I really enjoyed it. The writing was great. The chapters were a great length. I also enjoyed how it was split into various parts.
Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this for free. This was my honest review.
I read this one one sitting. It drew me in from the first page. Suzie is such a multi-dimensional character and this story really opened up a door on how mental health can change quickly and how it can affect someone in various ways; it also shows how it can affect loved ones too. This story made my heart break for Suzie and her family at times. It opened my eyes up to a world most of us have read about (tunnels and mole people) in a way that made me genuinely worry for Suzie. The description of the environment in the tunnels was fantastic - I could almost smell the tunnels and envision their condition.
This was such a different read for me and I really enjoyed it. The writing was great. The chapters were a great length. I also enjoyed how it was split into various parts.
Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this for free. This was my honest review.
March 14, 2024
The author created captivating characters in a gripping story with a compelling plot that truly captured my interest. The narrative revolved around a person with schizophrenia who found themself eventually living in the underground tunnels of Las Vegas. It was emotional and provided deep insights into the challenges faced by those less fortunate who fight daily for even just basic necessities. I found myself truly hoping for Suzie's survival and for the well-being of those who became her friends in the tunnels. The book was exceptionally well-written, and I enjoyed every moment of it from start to finish.
The topic of "mole people" in this book intrigued me. I did some reading about actual individuals in our society who reside in these underground tunnels and was very surprised. I was unaware of this reality existing in our world. It was truly eye-opening and evoked a profound sense of empathy for those enduring such circumstances. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
The topic of "mole people" in this book intrigued me. I did some reading about actual individuals in our society who reside in these underground tunnels and was very surprised. I was unaware of this reality existing in our world. It was truly eye-opening and evoked a profound sense of empathy for those enduring such circumstances. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2024
This book had such a wonderful promise to be an enticing read - the main character is adrift, in the throes of mental illness and addiction. She takes off one day and her boyfriend and mother spend months looking for her. She has episodes, meets people that both harm and keep her safe, and she tries to cure her schizophrenia with multiple drugs. Sounds good, right?
This book did not hit. It was so fragmented, Suzie was the flattest main I’ve ever encountered, the ending was stilted and none of the characters were developed enough to make this book really pop. It needed about 200 more pages, but not like that. I hate to give it a low rating but it’s a 1-star read for me. I wanted so much more from the book and it just didn’t happen. Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced copy to read!
This book did not hit. It was so fragmented, Suzie was the flattest main I’ve ever encountered, the ending was stilted and none of the characters were developed enough to make this book really pop. It needed about 200 more pages, but not like that. I hate to give it a low rating but it’s a 1-star read for me. I wanted so much more from the book and it just didn’t happen. Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced copy to read!
March 18, 2024
I received a free copy of this. Could not put this down. Gives you a whole new understanding of what those with mental illness go through. The whole book was well written with Suzie’s struggles and those who lived in the tunnels who became her friends. Please read this, you won’t be disappointed.
September 25, 2024
4.5 stars
tw: addiction & eating disorders & self harm
this book follows suzie and her struggles with schizophrenia and paranoia and how much untreated mental illness can effect someone. this book had me hooked from the very beginning.
tw: addiction & eating disorders & self harm
this book follows suzie and her struggles with schizophrenia and paranoia and how much untreated mental illness can effect someone. this book had me hooked from the very beginning.
September 5, 2024
The Mole People is an intense, heart-wrenching read, one that will make you feel for the main character as we take a deeper look into mental illness and drug addiction.
In this book, we follow Suzie Franks, a college student who struggles with schizophrenia and paranoia. Suzie has the support of her mother and boyfriend, however, it isn't enough. Every day for her is a battle, as she struggles to cope with her illness, and her environment doesn't make it any better. She is teased at school for her differences and, as a result, turns to drugs as a temporary release. Eventually, as things worsen, Suzie finds herself running away from her life and everyone she knows in Oregon. She ends up in Las Vegas amongst the mole people, an underground community that promises to protect her. Her life starts spiraling further downhill, and it soon becomes apparent to Suzie that if she wants to live, she's going to have to fight.
This book broke me. I felt for Suzie in so many ways. Although we did not get Suzie's very beginnings, we do get flashbacks which give us an idea of the life Suzie has lived. We meet Suzie at a vulnerable time in her life, and it is heartbreaking to see her fall into a very dark place. I was rooting for Suzie the entire boom through, and the ending gave some sort of comfort, although it was a very rough journey getting there. I appreciate the author for touching on sensitive topics in today's society and shining light on the internal battles that many people are silently fighting.
Thank you NetGalley, Kevin Landt, and Ryland Publishing for this read.
In this book, we follow Suzie Franks, a college student who struggles with schizophrenia and paranoia. Suzie has the support of her mother and boyfriend, however, it isn't enough. Every day for her is a battle, as she struggles to cope with her illness, and her environment doesn't make it any better. She is teased at school for her differences and, as a result, turns to drugs as a temporary release. Eventually, as things worsen, Suzie finds herself running away from her life and everyone she knows in Oregon. She ends up in Las Vegas amongst the mole people, an underground community that promises to protect her. Her life starts spiraling further downhill, and it soon becomes apparent to Suzie that if she wants to live, she's going to have to fight.
This book broke me. I felt for Suzie in so many ways. Although we did not get Suzie's very beginnings, we do get flashbacks which give us an idea of the life Suzie has lived. We meet Suzie at a vulnerable time in her life, and it is heartbreaking to see her fall into a very dark place. I was rooting for Suzie the entire boom through, and the ending gave some sort of comfort, although it was a very rough journey getting there. I appreciate the author for touching on sensitive topics in today's society and shining light on the internal battles that many people are silently fighting.
Thank you NetGalley, Kevin Landt, and Ryland Publishing for this read.
August 27, 2024
3.25 stars
The Mole People is a story of hardships, addiction, and mental illness. A few triggers including suicidal ideation.
Kevin Landt brings to light many life struggles that are all too real for many people daily. As a healthcare professional I felt this story was such a realistic situation for so many out there that struggle with mental illness. The sad reality of drug addiction and homelessness that often times accompany such a situation. I love how the protagonist, Suzie, has many people who love and support her and want her to succeed. Being given snippets into her inner thoughts helps the reader to understand how one in her situation may end up running away from all the help that is being given to her.
It did read sort of YA - no major character building, not a lot of descriptive settings. I did not necessarily bond with the main character in a way that gripped me into her story. The "twist" was not very shocking and I felt the storyline did just fine without it. For this I give it 3.25 stars but overall did enjoy the book. It read quick and was entertaining.
Thank you so much to Kevin Landt for reaching out and allowing me to receive an ARC to read and give my honest opinion.
The Mole People is a story of hardships, addiction, and mental illness. A few triggers including suicidal ideation.
Kevin Landt brings to light many life struggles that are all too real for many people daily. As a healthcare professional I felt this story was such a realistic situation for so many out there that struggle with mental illness. The sad reality of drug addiction and homelessness that often times accompany such a situation. I love how the protagonist, Suzie, has many people who love and support her and want her to succeed. Being given snippets into her inner thoughts helps the reader to understand how one in her situation may end up running away from all the help that is being given to her.
It did read sort of YA - no major character building, not a lot of descriptive settings. I did not necessarily bond with the main character in a way that gripped me into her story. The "twist" was not very shocking and I felt the storyline did just fine without it. For this I give it 3.25 stars but overall did enjoy the book. It read quick and was entertaining.
Thank you so much to Kevin Landt for reaching out and allowing me to receive an ARC to read and give my honest opinion.
August 28, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read in a very long time that I could not put down! I was drawn in from the very first page, and led through a heartbreaking and devastating journey of mental illness and drug addiction. It really opened my eyes to a life once lived before the despair-filled darkness of addiction created a whole new life, where all that really matters is the next hit. So many different beginnings, all leading down to the same hopeless trap, leaving a trail of loved ones to panic and fear for someone once filled with promise. This book gave me a greater appreciation for the struggles other people have and the demons they fight every day. Thank you #netgalley, #kevinlandt and #rylandpublishing for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for an honest review! This book was very well-written and very thought-provoking!
July 29, 2024
I was given a request to read this from the author. The book sounded like it would be good so I gave it a read. The story plot is of Suzie a girl with pschizophrenia who just can't handle college anymore, one day she just packs up leaves her mom and her boyfriend and heads off into the world. Battling mental illness and drug addiction, she needs help along the way. Some of the people helped her, some people took advantage of her. It's about her trials suffering. Should have been an interesting read. However, it was not. I kept reading hoping the book would pick up with excitement along the way. It did not. The problem was none of the characters, including the main one, didn't have any personality. Not one had any wow factor they were all flat mundane characters. It was a very good attempt for a fiction novel. It was just lacking everything that can make a great novel. No big excitement, no big action, and the ending was smothering and boring. I really wanted to give this book a good review, but it didn't give me anything to do so. You can try it, it may have been just my opinion. And yours may be different.
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