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People Like Us
In the intoxicating circle of influence and celebrity surrounding her ultra-rich in-laws, Astrid is an outsider. When she and her husband, Simon, return to the Morning family’s lavish estate for his sister’s wedding, she seizes the opportunity to finally prove she belongs.
As the family members set to work preparing for the ceremony, Astrid’s efforts lead to her uncovering an old radio hidden in the back of a closet. Curious, she turns it on.
Then, the nightmare begins.
Across the static-filled line, a young girl calls for help.
But is the threat real? The Mornings have dealt with cruel pranks before, and they’re certain someone is trying to trick Astrid into revealing the wedding location, or worse.
If she doesn’t heed their warnings, she might just tumble headfirst into a meticulously laid trap. But as the wedding day draws nearer and tensions escalate, she can’t shake the feeling they’re wrong. And when she crosses a line in her search for answers, even Simon can’t hide the doubt lingering in his gaze.
She must make a choice; if the girl is actually in danger, Astrid is running out of time.
In the grand, sun-soaked halls of Morning House, Astrid fears the secrets looming in the shadows. The cracks have begun to show, and in choosing between her own intuition and her new family, the very ground she walks on will crumble.
From the moment she married Simon, all Astrid wanted was the family she’s always dreamed of, but as terrifying truths are unearthed, it becomes undeniable: if she digs too deep into the Mornings’ world, she might find herself buried instead.
Perfect for fans of The Family Secret, Don’t Go Down There, and Bitter House, Modglin returns with a dark, utterly propulsive locked-room thriller, crackling with tension and dripping with wealth, whispers, and unbridled power.
As the family members set to work preparing for the ceremony, Astrid’s efforts lead to her uncovering an old radio hidden in the back of a closet. Curious, she turns it on.
Then, the nightmare begins.
Across the static-filled line, a young girl calls for help.
But is the threat real? The Mornings have dealt with cruel pranks before, and they’re certain someone is trying to trick Astrid into revealing the wedding location, or worse.
If she doesn’t heed their warnings, she might just tumble headfirst into a meticulously laid trap. But as the wedding day draws nearer and tensions escalate, she can’t shake the feeling they’re wrong. And when she crosses a line in her search for answers, even Simon can’t hide the doubt lingering in his gaze.
She must make a choice; if the girl is actually in danger, Astrid is running out of time.
In the grand, sun-soaked halls of Morning House, Astrid fears the secrets looming in the shadows. The cracks have begun to show, and in choosing between her own intuition and her new family, the very ground she walks on will crumble.
From the moment she married Simon, all Astrid wanted was the family she’s always dreamed of, but as terrifying truths are unearthed, it becomes undeniable: if she digs too deep into the Mornings’ world, she might find herself buried instead.
Perfect for fans of The Family Secret, Don’t Go Down There, and Bitter House, Modglin returns with a dark, utterly propulsive locked-room thriller, crackling with tension and dripping with wealth, whispers, and unbridled power.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2026
About the author
Kiersten Modglin
58 books15.6k followersKIERSTEN MODGLIN is a #1 bestselling author of psychological thrillers. Her books have sold over two million copies and been translated into multiple languages. Kiersten is a member of International Thriller Writers, Novelists, Inc., and the Alliance of Independent Authors. She is a KDP Select All-Star and a recipient of ThrillerFix's Best Psychological Thriller Award, Suspense Magazine's Best Book of 2021 Award, a 2022 Silver Falchion for Best Suspense, and a 2022 Silver Falchion for Best Overall Book of 2021. Kiersten grew up in rural western Kentucky and later relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where she now lives with her family. Kiersten's readers across the world lovingly refer to her as "KMod." A binge-watching expert, psychology fanatic, and indoor enthusiast, Kiersten enjoys rainy days spent with her favorite people and evenings with her nose in a book.
CONNECT WITH KIERSTEN:
➜ WEBSITE: kierstenmodglinauthor.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/nlsignup
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ KMOD SQUAD: facebook.com/groups/kmodsquad
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ THREADS: threads.net/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TEXT ALERTS: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/textalerts
Kiersten Modglin may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ kierstenmodglinauthor.com/events
CONNECT WITH KIERSTEN:
➜ WEBSITE: kierstenmodglinauthor.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/nlsignup
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ KMOD SQUAD: facebook.com/groups/kmodsquad
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ THREADS: threads.net/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TEXT ALERTS: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/textalerts
Kiersten Modglin may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ kierstenmodglinauthor.com/events
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 18, 2026
This book completely pulled me into the dark, captivating lifestyle of the Morning family—a family that seems impossible to escape once you’re tangled up in them. The story thrives on uneasy tension, buried secrets, and the kind of wealth and influence that quietly controls everything around it. I was constantly questioning everyone’s motives and never fully sure who could be trusted.
Astrid made for such a compelling main character because her desire to be accepted into the family felt so genuine and relatable. Watching her get drawn deeper into the Morning family’s orbit while everything around her became more suffocating and unsettling created this growing sense of doubt that worked incredibly well throughout the book.
I also loved the contrast between the initial more jovial wedding subplot and the darker atmosphere that developed as the story builds. Modglin did a great job creating this moody, claustrophobic feeling where even the most beautiful moments felt slightly off.
Overall, this was a quick, tension-filled read packed with dysfunctional family dynamics, deception, and control. The sense of unease stayed gripping throughout, and it ended up being such an enjoyable read!
Astrid made for such a compelling main character because her desire to be accepted into the family felt so genuine and relatable. Watching her get drawn deeper into the Morning family’s orbit while everything around her became more suffocating and unsettling created this growing sense of doubt that worked incredibly well throughout the book.
I also loved the contrast between the initial more jovial wedding subplot and the darker atmosphere that developed as the story builds. Modglin did a great job creating this moody, claustrophobic feeling where even the most beautiful moments felt slightly off.
Overall, this was a quick, tension-filled read packed with dysfunctional family dynamics, deception, and control. The sense of unease stayed gripping throughout, and it ended up being such an enjoyable read!
May 15, 2026
Modglin is a hit or miss author for me, and finally there was a hit again. The story was full of suspense, drama and a very interesting character that I felt for. The ending was amazing, and I felt it was very satisfying as well. Well done, modglin and now I can’t wait for the next book.
Read
May 7, 2026I received this ALC from High Gravity Productions
People Like Us was an interesting read and solid overall. The setup kept me curious, and I liked the way it leaned into wealthy-family dynamics, secrets, reputation, and the kind of behavior that feels very believable when money and status are involved.
That said, it was not as fast-paced as I would have liked. It held my attention, but there were moments where I wanted a little more urgency or tension to push the story forward.
The narration worked well and was easy to follow. It made the audiobook a smooth listen.
One thing I kept thinking while reading was that I would have loved to see this from Simon’s perspective.
I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy domestic suspense, wealthy-family secrets, and slower-burn mysteries centered around privilege, reputation, and messy people making messy choices.
People Like Us was an interesting read and solid overall. The setup kept me curious, and I liked the way it leaned into wealthy-family dynamics, secrets, reputation, and the kind of behavior that feels very believable when money and status are involved.
That said, it was not as fast-paced as I would have liked. It held my attention, but there were moments where I wanted a little more urgency or tension to push the story forward.
The narration worked well and was easy to follow. It made the audiobook a smooth listen.
One thing I kept thinking while reading was that I would have loved to see this from Simon’s perspective.
I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy domestic suspense, wealthy-family secrets, and slower-burn mysteries centered around privilege, reputation, and messy people making messy choices.
May 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I swear Kiersten Modglin never misses for me, and People Like Us was another reminder why she’s one of my auto-read authors. I’ve now read 49 out of her 53 books, and somehow she still manages to surprise me every single time.
This book was so fast-paced and bingeable. From the very beginning I was fully invested in all of the characters and completely wrapped up in the drama, secrets, and tension building between everyone. Every time I thought I had everything figured out, another little twist would pop up and prove me wrong. That’s one of my favorite things about Kiersten’s writing — she always keeps you second-guessing yourself.
The short chapters and constant suspense made this impossible to put down, and I flew through it in no time. If you love thrillers with messy characters, secrets, and twists that keep you hooked until the very end, definitely pick this one up.
I swear Kiersten Modglin never misses for me, and People Like Us was another reminder why she’s one of my auto-read authors. I’ve now read 49 out of her 53 books, and somehow she still manages to surprise me every single time.
This book was so fast-paced and bingeable. From the very beginning I was fully invested in all of the characters and completely wrapped up in the drama, secrets, and tension building between everyone. Every time I thought I had everything figured out, another little twist would pop up and prove me wrong. That’s one of my favorite things about Kiersten’s writing — she always keeps you second-guessing yourself.
The short chapters and constant suspense made this impossible to put down, and I flew through it in no time. If you love thrillers with messy characters, secrets, and twists that keep you hooked until the very end, definitely pick this one up.
May 22, 2026
I went into People Like Us by Kiersten Modglin expecting a fast paced thriller, but I honestly didn’t expect it to hit me emotionally the way it did. Astrid’s story got to me more than I was prepared for, especially as someone who grew up in foster care myself. Underneath all the twists and suspense, there’s this really sad reality about how deeply the system affects people long after they leave it.
Astrid felt so real to me. The trust issues, survival instincts, feeling like you always have to protect yourself emotionally… Kiersten Modglin captured that in a way that felt authentic instead of overly dramatic. There were moments that genuinely hurt to listen to because they reminded me how tragically broken foster care can be and how many kids grow up carrying trauma that nobody really sees.
And Simon 😭😭 I was REALLY rooting for him. I wanted so badly for things to work out differently. Their dynamic had me emotionally invested the whole time because underneath everything messy and complicated, you could tell both characters just wanted connection and stability in their own way.
The audiobook narration made everything hit even harder too. You could hear the fear, vulnerability, and emotional exhaustion in the characters, which made some scenes feel almost too real.
What I appreciated most is that this wasn’t just drama for shock value. The characters actually felt damaged in believable ways. Nobody was perfect, but that’s what made them human.
This ended up being way more than just a thriller for me. It was emotional, frustrating, heartbreaking, and honestly healing in a weird way because it captured feelings I think a lot of former foster kids understand but don’t always know how to explain.
Astrid felt so real to me. The trust issues, survival instincts, feeling like you always have to protect yourself emotionally… Kiersten Modglin captured that in a way that felt authentic instead of overly dramatic. There were moments that genuinely hurt to listen to because they reminded me how tragically broken foster care can be and how many kids grow up carrying trauma that nobody really sees.
And Simon 😭😭 I was REALLY rooting for him. I wanted so badly for things to work out differently. Their dynamic had me emotionally invested the whole time because underneath everything messy and complicated, you could tell both characters just wanted connection and stability in their own way.
The audiobook narration made everything hit even harder too. You could hear the fear, vulnerability, and emotional exhaustion in the characters, which made some scenes feel almost too real.
What I appreciated most is that this wasn’t just drama for shock value. The characters actually felt damaged in believable ways. Nobody was perfect, but that’s what made them human.
This ended up being way more than just a thriller for me. It was emotional, frustrating, heartbreaking, and honestly healing in a weird way because it captured feelings I think a lot of former foster kids understand but don’t always know how to explain.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2026
Kiersten Modglin delivered another addictive thriller with People Like Us. The tension builds fast, the family secrets are deliciously messy, and the eerie atmosphere kept me hooked the entire time. Christine Lakin’s narration was fantastic and really brought Astrid’s fear and paranoia to life. If you love twisty locked-room thrillers where no one can be trusted, this one is absolutely worth the listen! 🔥
May 20, 2026
Kiersten came through on so many levels with this book! Kept me guessing the whole way through and each twist had me gripping and needing to find out more. I truly loved the message of this book-finding yourself and belonging to yourself first before anyone else. Being able to sit with yourself and love yourself even if the world is crumbling around you. After losing my mom this past year I truly identified with more than I anticipated in Astrid. Thanks Kiersten for always coming through for the K-Mod Squad! 🩷
May 17, 2026
What a fun novel. A crazy family, wedding and secrets which can bring a family down. Modglin delivers another fresh novel.
May 18, 2026
This was exactly what I needed! A quick and easy thriller that kept my guessing throughout. I also absolutely love anything with a shady rich family so really enjoyed the plot on this!
May 16, 2026
Every time I think I have a favorite book by Kiersten, she puts out another one!
May 16, 2026
She's at it again, folks.
Brings you in from the jump.
I was giving side eyes early on because what was happening here.
What is the truth? Who can you trust?
Definitely not Kiersten Modglin haha!
Brings you in from the jump.
I was giving side eyes early on because what was happening here.
What is the truth? Who can you trust?
Definitely not Kiersten Modglin haha!
May 9, 2026
Just finished People Like Us by Kiersten Modglin, and I have to say, it’s a fantastic thriller that kept me guessing until the very end! Even though I don’t usually read mini thrillers, this one had enough twists and turns to captivate me.
I received an advanced listening copy from High Gravity Productions, and Christine Lakin’s narration was absolutely incredible, drawing me into Astrid’s world. The way Astrid feels like an outsider among her ultra-rich in-laws adds an intriguing layer to the story, and the secrets surrounding them made me second-guess everything.
This book is a quick, easy listen, and if you enjoy psychological thrillers, I highly recommend checking it out. I’ll definitely be exploring more works by Modglin in the future!
I received an advanced listening copy from High Gravity Productions, and Christine Lakin’s narration was absolutely incredible, drawing me into Astrid’s world. The way Astrid feels like an outsider among her ultra-rich in-laws adds an intriguing layer to the story, and the secrets surrounding them made me second-guess everything.
This book is a quick, easy listen, and if you enjoy psychological thrillers, I highly recommend checking it out. I’ll definitely be exploring more works by Modglin in the future!
May 18, 2026
This book was so good I couldn't put it down!
May 18, 2026
Family secrets.
Astrid is at her super wealthy in-laws’ home. Mysterious voice over an old radio, and no one but her has heard it. It leads with suspicion and suspense and holds it out till the very end. Twists and turns in this family come from every which way. Who knows what? What is going on? Absolutely had me hooked and needing some answers.
Come read with me @booksy.tx.ana
Astrid is at her super wealthy in-laws’ home. Mysterious voice over an old radio, and no one but her has heard it. It leads with suspicion and suspense and holds it out till the very end. Twists and turns in this family come from every which way. Who knows what? What is going on? Absolutely had me hooked and needing some answers.
Come read with me @booksy.tx.ana
May 20, 2026
There were definitely anxious moments throughout the book, which pushed me through, but overall underwhelming.
May 17, 2026
Phenomenal
I couldn't put it down. I knew there would be a twisty plot,this I didn't see coming! Definite page turner,worth every word! Kirsten Modglin does it again
I couldn't put it down. I knew there would be a twisty plot,this I didn't see coming! Definite page turner,worth every word! Kirsten Modglin does it again
May 16, 2026
People Like Us
By Kiersten Modglin
Narrated by Christine Lakin
Oh my, was this ever a phenomenal listen. Kiersten Modglin knows how to capture my attention and keep me captivated for hours. This features Astrid. She always wanted to be part of a big, happy family and marrying into the Mornings, she thought she had found what she was looking for. But what she finds out is it's hard to win the trust and she will never be accepted. The question is why. This mystery had me wondering, is she crazy? Is she dealing with a ghost? What will happen next? There is so much going on, and the unforeseen outcome left me surprised yet satisfied. It's a fantastic listen, one that if you like family drama with suspense, this is for you!
Christine Lakin gives an amazing performance using her talents to create a vast array of characters. Every family member, from old to young, male to female, she gives them personalities that fit perfectly. From the evil to the submissive followers, she nails the emotions and excitement through the story. I loved her child voice along with the way she let Astrid grow through her journey. This is a must listen!
By Kiersten Modglin
Narrated by Christine Lakin
Oh my, was this ever a phenomenal listen. Kiersten Modglin knows how to capture my attention and keep me captivated for hours. This features Astrid. She always wanted to be part of a big, happy family and marrying into the Mornings, she thought she had found what she was looking for. But what she finds out is it's hard to win the trust and she will never be accepted. The question is why. This mystery had me wondering, is she crazy? Is she dealing with a ghost? What will happen next? There is so much going on, and the unforeseen outcome left me surprised yet satisfied. It's a fantastic listen, one that if you like family drama with suspense, this is for you!
Christine Lakin gives an amazing performance using her talents to create a vast array of characters. Every family member, from old to young, male to female, she gives them personalities that fit perfectly. From the evil to the submissive followers, she nails the emotions and excitement through the story. I loved her child voice along with the way she let Astrid grow through her journey. This is a must listen!
May 20, 2026
This was a rare miss for me. Modglin regularly gets 4- and 5-star ratings from me, but this one just didn't hit. It felt like there were too many characters to remember, but she's mastered that before so I'm not sure why I was struggling this time. I also had absolutely no idea where this book was going at any point in time, and not in a good way. I usually have 1-3 theories in my head when enjoying her books, but this one was just weird. The reveals also didn't hit for me. The crimes committed were just kind of bizarre and I feel like there were far too many question marks all the way up until the reveal. Modglin usually has the reader confused and guessing throughout her books, but I feel like we needed a little more information in the first 2 thirds of the book in order to make the payoff satisfying. Still love KModg, though!
May 21, 2026
ANOTHER solid book by Kiersten!! This author is seriously slowly becoming my favorite. A little bit longer chapters than I’m used to, but I think it’s why I cruised it through so fast. I just wanted to keep reading to find out what was happening next.
Loved the family drama and love when I find myself saying “oooohhhhh!” After a plot twist.
Gives big “Bloodlines” vibes (Netflix series).
4.3/5
Loved the family drama and love when I find myself saying “oooohhhhh!” After a plot twist.
Gives big “Bloodlines” vibes (Netflix series).
4.3/5
May 21, 2026
Love a good twist!
The Morning family is everything and Astrid, wife to Simon, wants the family to love her and accept her more than anything. But what is going on around the Morning place? This book will keep you guessing, keep you on your toes, and shock the life out of you! Twists, turns and the cold hard truth. Will Astrid prove that she is morning worth once and for all?
The Morning family is everything and Astrid, wife to Simon, wants the family to love her and accept her more than anything. But what is going on around the Morning place? This book will keep you guessing, keep you on your toes, and shock the life out of you! Twists, turns and the cold hard truth. Will Astrid prove that she is morning worth once and for all?
May 16, 2026
Kiersten Modglin is an auto read author for me. This may be my new favorite book from her. Anything you think you know while reading this book, forget it. You don’t. You’ll never figure it out. Twists to the very end!
May 17, 2026
Wow… so many twists and turns.. even after finishing the book I don’t know who to trust!?
Well done!!!!
Well done!!!!
May 22, 2026
Kept me entertained the whole book. I read it faster than others because I needed to know what was going to happen.
May 21, 2026
Whew what an awesome ride!
May 21, 2026
📖🎧 Book & Narrator Review
This story completely pulled me in and honestly did not let me go.
From the very beginning, Astrid’s character hit me on an emotional level. All she wants is to belong, and being surrounded by her husband’s ultra-wealthy, powerful family, you can feel how out of place she is in every moment. That quiet desperation mixed with determination made her so easy to root for.
And then… the radio.
The second that static-filled voice of a young girl calling for help came through, everything shifted. The tension, the unease, the constant questioning of what’s real and what isn’t—it was done so well. I was second-guessing everything right along with Astrid.
The Morning family added this whole other layer of discomfort. They’re polished and powerful on the surface, but underneath. Something feels off the entire time. That slow unraveling of secrets mixed with the pressure of the upcoming wedding created such an intense, almost claustrophobic atmosphere.
⸻
🎙️ Narration – Christine Lakin
Christine Lakin absolutely elevated this story.
Her performance made Astrid’s emotions feel so real—the doubt, the fear, the urgency… you could hear it all. She does an incredible job pulling you into Astrid’s head, which makes the psychological tension hit even harder.
What really stood out:
* The way she builds suspense with subtle shifts in tone
* How distinct and natural each character feels
* That creeping sense of unease she maintains throughout
She doesn’t just read the story—she immerses you in it.
⸻
⭐ Overall
This was one of those stories where:
* You don’t know who to trust
* The tension keeps building
* And the atmosphere lingers even after you finish
And paired with Christine Lakin’s narration It becomes an even more intense, gripping experience.
⸻
💭 Final Thoughts
This story is unsettling in the best way—quietly tense, emotionally driven, and full of secrets that feel like they’re just waiting to surface.
And with that narration bringing it all to life
You’re not just listening… you’re inside it.
This story completely pulled me in and honestly did not let me go.
From the very beginning, Astrid’s character hit me on an emotional level. All she wants is to belong, and being surrounded by her husband’s ultra-wealthy, powerful family, you can feel how out of place she is in every moment. That quiet desperation mixed with determination made her so easy to root for.
And then… the radio.
The second that static-filled voice of a young girl calling for help came through, everything shifted. The tension, the unease, the constant questioning of what’s real and what isn’t—it was done so well. I was second-guessing everything right along with Astrid.
The Morning family added this whole other layer of discomfort. They’re polished and powerful on the surface, but underneath. Something feels off the entire time. That slow unraveling of secrets mixed with the pressure of the upcoming wedding created such an intense, almost claustrophobic atmosphere.
⸻
🎙️ Narration – Christine Lakin
Christine Lakin absolutely elevated this story.
Her performance made Astrid’s emotions feel so real—the doubt, the fear, the urgency… you could hear it all. She does an incredible job pulling you into Astrid’s head, which makes the psychological tension hit even harder.
What really stood out:
* The way she builds suspense with subtle shifts in tone
* How distinct and natural each character feels
* That creeping sense of unease she maintains throughout
She doesn’t just read the story—she immerses you in it.
⸻
⭐ Overall
This was one of those stories where:
* You don’t know who to trust
* The tension keeps building
* And the atmosphere lingers even after you finish
And paired with Christine Lakin’s narration It becomes an even more intense, gripping experience.
⸻
💭 Final Thoughts
This story is unsettling in the best way—quietly tense, emotionally driven, and full of secrets that feel like they’re just waiting to surface.
And with that narration bringing it all to life
You’re not just listening… you’re inside it.
Review of advance copy
Succession meets a slow-burn domestic noir.
If you’ve ever felt like the odd one out at a family dinner, (cause I know I have) Astrid’s journey will resonate though hopefully, your in-laws aren't quite this shrouded in mystery. This story plunges us into the gilded cage of a family where reputation is the only currency that matters, and secrets are buried deeper than their bank accounts.
Modglin perfectly captures the tension of being an outsider looking into a world of extreme privilege. The poor little rich girl trope is flipped on its head as we watch Astrid navigate a family that feels both believable and deeply unsettling.
Huge thanks to High Gravity Productions for the ALC. Christine Lakin delivers a powerhouse performance. Her narration breathed life into Astrid, making her vulnerability and growing suspicion feel incredibly visceral.
The focus on messy people making even messier choices kept me hooked. It’s a solid exploration of how far people will go to protect their status.
While the setup was gripping, the pacing felt more like a steady simmer than a rolling boil. I found myself craving a bit more urgency to match the high stakes of the plot. Additionally, I couldn't stop wondering what was going on behind Simon’s eyes having his perspective would have added a delicious layer of complexity to the family drama.
A polished, easy to digest thriller for fans of domestic suspense. If you enjoy watching wealthy families implode under the weight of their own secrets, this is a must listen. It’s a solid introduction to Modglin’s work, and I’m definitely curious to see what she writes next.
If you’ve ever felt like the odd one out at a family dinner, (cause I know I have) Astrid’s journey will resonate though hopefully, your in-laws aren't quite this shrouded in mystery. This story plunges us into the gilded cage of a family where reputation is the only currency that matters, and secrets are buried deeper than their bank accounts.
Modglin perfectly captures the tension of being an outsider looking into a world of extreme privilege. The poor little rich girl trope is flipped on its head as we watch Astrid navigate a family that feels both believable and deeply unsettling.
Huge thanks to High Gravity Productions for the ALC. Christine Lakin delivers a powerhouse performance. Her narration breathed life into Astrid, making her vulnerability and growing suspicion feel incredibly visceral.
The focus on messy people making even messier choices kept me hooked. It’s a solid exploration of how far people will go to protect their status.
While the setup was gripping, the pacing felt more like a steady simmer than a rolling boil. I found myself craving a bit more urgency to match the high stakes of the plot. Additionally, I couldn't stop wondering what was going on behind Simon’s eyes having his perspective would have added a delicious layer of complexity to the family drama.
A polished, easy to digest thriller for fans of domestic suspense. If you enjoy watching wealthy families implode under the weight of their own secrets, this is a must listen. It’s a solid introduction to Modglin’s work, and I’m definitely curious to see what she writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.25/5)
This audiobook completely pulled me into the unsettling world of the Morning family and never really let go. The mix of wealth, influence, family secrets, and psychological tension created such an addictive atmosphere, and I was constantly second-guessing who could actually be trusted.
Astrid was such an interesting main character because all she wants is to belong, but the deeper she gets into the Morning family’s world, the more isolated and paranoid everything feels. The hidden radio and the mysterious girl calling for help instantly hooked me, and from there the tension kept building chapter after chapter. I loved how the story balanced the glamorous wedding setting with this growing sense of dread lurking underneath it all.
Christine Lakin did a fantastic job with the narration. She really captured Astrid’s anxiety, desperation, and determination, which made the suspense feel even more intense. Her performance kept me fully invested and made the story incredibly easy to binge.
The pacing slowed slightly for me in the middle, but the twists, family dynamics, and claustrophobic atmosphere kept me engaged the entire time. If you enjoy locked-room thrillers filled with secrets, manipulation, wealthy dysfunctional families, and constant tension, this one is definitely worth the listen.
This audiobook completely pulled me into the unsettling world of the Morning family and never really let go. The mix of wealth, influence, family secrets, and psychological tension created such an addictive atmosphere, and I was constantly second-guessing who could actually be trusted.
Astrid was such an interesting main character because all she wants is to belong, but the deeper she gets into the Morning family’s world, the more isolated and paranoid everything feels. The hidden radio and the mysterious girl calling for help instantly hooked me, and from there the tension kept building chapter after chapter. I loved how the story balanced the glamorous wedding setting with this growing sense of dread lurking underneath it all.
Christine Lakin did a fantastic job with the narration. She really captured Astrid’s anxiety, desperation, and determination, which made the suspense feel even more intense. Her performance kept me fully invested and made the story incredibly easy to binge.
The pacing slowed slightly for me in the middle, but the twists, family dynamics, and claustrophobic atmosphere kept me engaged the entire time. If you enjoy locked-room thrillers filled with secrets, manipulation, wealthy dysfunctional families, and constant tension, this one is definitely worth the listen.
Review of advance copy
Kiersten Modglin’s People Like Us was a quick and easy popcorn thriller that I ended up finishing in one sitting. The premise itself felt pretty familiar, following Astrid as she joins her husband Simon’s wealthy family at the eerie Morning House for his sister’s wedding, where strange things soon start happening around her.
The most intriguing part of the story for me was definitely the mystery surrounding the old CB radio and the young girl’s voice calling through the static for help. I liked the uncertainty around whether it was a real cry for help or if someone was deliberately messing with Astrid.
I also liked the gothic atmosphere of Morning House. The Victorian mansion added a creepy edge to the story and fit the family secrets and tension hiding behind closed doors perfectly. While it was interesting seeing the different dynamics within the Morning family, I was definitely more invested in uncovering what exactly they were all hiding.
The pacing was mostly fast, although the middle section dragged a little for me. Still, at only around 230 pages, it was an easy read to fly through overall and made for a fun, entertaining thriller with enough twists to keep me engaged.
The most intriguing part of the story for me was definitely the mystery surrounding the old CB radio and the young girl’s voice calling through the static for help. I liked the uncertainty around whether it was a real cry for help or if someone was deliberately messing with Astrid.
I also liked the gothic atmosphere of Morning House. The Victorian mansion added a creepy edge to the story and fit the family secrets and tension hiding behind closed doors perfectly. While it was interesting seeing the different dynamics within the Morning family, I was definitely more invested in uncovering what exactly they were all hiding.
The pacing was mostly fast, although the middle section dragged a little for me. Still, at only around 230 pages, it was an easy read to fly through overall and made for a fun, entertaining thriller with enough twists to keep me engaged.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I liked this one way more than I was expecting to, honestly! I listened to this one on audio and it is narrated by Christine Lakin. She did a fantastic job with the characters, the emotions, and just truly bringing the story to life.
Thrillers are not typically my preferred genre, but I like to toss them in every now and again, and I am glad I gave this one a chance. This one was quick and kept me hooked in wanting to know what was going to happen next. It keeps you trying to guess if there is something more going on with Astrid or is there more going on with Simon's family, or both?
So many secrets and much deeper than I expected. There were several twists that I just did not see coming at all! I really liked the ending and the direction that it went.
If you like a good psychological thriller that is quick, has lots of secrets, and quite a bit packed into it, then definitely check this one out! Huge thank you to the author and High Gravity Productions for the gifted copy to listen to!
Thrillers are not typically my preferred genre, but I like to toss them in every now and again, and I am glad I gave this one a chance. This one was quick and kept me hooked in wanting to know what was going to happen next. It keeps you trying to guess if there is something more going on with Astrid or is there more going on with Simon's family, or both?
So many secrets and much deeper than I expected. There were several twists that I just did not see coming at all! I really liked the ending and the direction that it went.
If you like a good psychological thriller that is quick, has lots of secrets, and quite a bit packed into it, then definitely check this one out! Huge thank you to the author and High Gravity Productions for the gifted copy to listen to!
Review of advance copy
It's been a bit of time since I've read this author and I'm so glad that I was able to get a copy of this as an audiobook. It is amazing. I was so drawn into the book listening to it. I just loved the storyline. It's an on the edge of your seat thriller that will have you guessing until the very end. I liked the buildup and how everything turned out. I even more so liked the twists along the way, some of them I didn't even see coming, especially that ending. It was a big revelation, were it all fell into place. As far as the narration Christine Lakin did a fantastic job, especially with the way she was able to effortlessly switch between all the characters and convey all the emotions in this narrative. A perfect listen that I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend. Thanks so much to High Gravity Productions and the author for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed.
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