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Camp People
Wet Hot American Summer meets Emily Henry in the story of a young woman avoiding adulthood by working at summer camp, who is forced to confront the repercussions of her isolation when her old nemesis returns during her final summer.
Most 27-year-olds don’t live full-time at summer camp, but in the years since tragedy left Paige Schilsky alone in the world, Mirror Lake has become her home, from the climbing tower she can scale blindfolded to the renovated boathouse she’s decorated as most would their first apartment. When her boss tells her she’s overstayed her welcome, Paige resolves to make the most of her last season as camp director—until the arrival of an old colleague threatens to ruin her summer before it begins.
Handsome and cocky, Oliver Trevenen earned Paige’s ire from their first meeting, and nothing in the five years they worked together as counselors convinced her he was more than a loud mouth and pretty face. Now that he’s back—cute as ever and living in the spare room of her boathouse—Paige is determined to keep her distance, but it’s easier said than done in the bubble of summer camp. As they bring old camp traditions to a new generation and share late nights musing over the past, Paige discovers a sensitive person healing beneath Oliver’s irreverent facade—and reveals a side of her heart she’s long kept hidden.
But September is just around the corner, and with it the perils of adult life Paige has been avoiding. When camp ends, Paige must figure out whether a relationship nurtured by summer and nostalgia—and a life defined by it—can make it in the real world.
Most 27-year-olds don’t live full-time at summer camp, but in the years since tragedy left Paige Schilsky alone in the world, Mirror Lake has become her home, from the climbing tower she can scale blindfolded to the renovated boathouse she’s decorated as most would their first apartment. When her boss tells her she’s overstayed her welcome, Paige resolves to make the most of her last season as camp director—until the arrival of an old colleague threatens to ruin her summer before it begins.
Handsome and cocky, Oliver Trevenen earned Paige’s ire from their first meeting, and nothing in the five years they worked together as counselors convinced her he was more than a loud mouth and pretty face. Now that he’s back—cute as ever and living in the spare room of her boathouse—Paige is determined to keep her distance, but it’s easier said than done in the bubble of summer camp. As they bring old camp traditions to a new generation and share late nights musing over the past, Paige discovers a sensitive person healing beneath Oliver’s irreverent facade—and reveals a side of her heart she’s long kept hidden.
But September is just around the corner, and with it the perils of adult life Paige has been avoiding. When camp ends, Paige must figure out whether a relationship nurtured by summer and nostalgia—and a life defined by it—can make it in the real world.
- GenresRomance
360 pages, Paperback
Published August 11, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 17, 2026
Camp People by Liz Vidulich is a sweet, nostalgic summer camp story.
Paige has basically grown up at this camp in the Adirondacks. Her parents met there as counselors, and after a tragedy, it’s the one place that still feels like home. She’s worked her way up to program director, but her boss basically tells her this has to be her last summer—camp is meant for growing, not planting roots forever. So she decides to make it the Best Summer Ever (BSE)… until a hot colleague from her past shows up as the camp nurse and turns her plans upside down.
The camp itself is the real star. The setting feels lived-in and vibey—Mirror Lake, the traditions, the friendships that last forever, the daily routines that only “camp people” truly get. If you’ve spent summers at a place like this, you’ll probably get that warm, fuzzy feeling.
Paige is complicated and believable-loyal to a fault, a little stuck, dealing with grief and the fear of leaving the only place that feels safe. Oliver, the returning frenemy, is a solid male love interest. He’s his own person with his own stuff going on, not just a side character for Paige. Their relationship is a quiet frenemies-to-lovers arc. It’s not full of snappy banter or huge heart pounding moments, but more gentle emotions.
The writing is straightforward and down-to-earth. The camp atmosphere comes through clearly, and the quieter emotions (grief, growing up, realizing you might have to leave a place you love) land pretty well. That said, the pacing isn’t perfect. Some of the middle stretches drag, and the romance never quite delivers the big emotional punch I was hoping for. The ending also feels a bit rushed—important relationship stuff happens too fast after a lot of slow build.
Overall, this is a cute, low-key, summer read. It’s not going to blow you away or become your new obsession, but it’s enjoyable if you’re in the right mood for nostalgia and friendship. A solid debut!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Paige has basically grown up at this camp in the Adirondacks. Her parents met there as counselors, and after a tragedy, it’s the one place that still feels like home. She’s worked her way up to program director, but her boss basically tells her this has to be her last summer—camp is meant for growing, not planting roots forever. So she decides to make it the Best Summer Ever (BSE)… until a hot colleague from her past shows up as the camp nurse and turns her plans upside down.
The camp itself is the real star. The setting feels lived-in and vibey—Mirror Lake, the traditions, the friendships that last forever, the daily routines that only “camp people” truly get. If you’ve spent summers at a place like this, you’ll probably get that warm, fuzzy feeling.
Paige is complicated and believable-loyal to a fault, a little stuck, dealing with grief and the fear of leaving the only place that feels safe. Oliver, the returning frenemy, is a solid male love interest. He’s his own person with his own stuff going on, not just a side character for Paige. Their relationship is a quiet frenemies-to-lovers arc. It’s not full of snappy banter or huge heart pounding moments, but more gentle emotions.
The writing is straightforward and down-to-earth. The camp atmosphere comes through clearly, and the quieter emotions (grief, growing up, realizing you might have to leave a place you love) land pretty well. That said, the pacing isn’t perfect. Some of the middle stretches drag, and the romance never quite delivers the big emotional punch I was hoping for. The ending also feels a bit rushed—important relationship stuff happens too fast after a lot of slow build.
Overall, this is a cute, low-key, summer read. It’s not going to blow you away or become your new obsession, but it’s enjoyable if you’re in the right mood for nostalgia and friendship. A solid debut!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2026
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Camp People was such a nostalgic, heartfelt summer romance. 🏕️🌲💕 It had that perfect mix of childhood memories, enemies-to-lovers banter, emotional healing, and figuring out what you really want from life.
Paige and Oliver grew up spending their summers together at Mirror Lake Camp—mostly making each other miserable with an ongoing prank war. 😂 Years later, they’re back at camp together, but both are at very different crossroads in their lives.
Paige is now the camp director and beginning to realize that the place she loves so much might also be holding her back. Oliver, now a traveling nurse, is struggling to find his footing after an accident shakes his confidence. Watching these two reconnect while confronting their pasts and figuring out what comes next was equal parts sweet, funny, and emotional. 🥹❤️
I really loved the themes woven throughout this story. There’s grief, personal growth, family expectations, nostalgia, and that complicated feeling of loving a place while also realizing you may need to let it go in order to move forward. 💭✨
And the summer camp setting was SO good. Set against the Adirondack Mountains, Mirror Lake had that wonderfully nostalgic feeling of a place filled with memories, traditions, friendships, and maybe a little camp mischief. 🌲🔥🏕️
Overall, Camp People was a charming and emotional summer read about letting go of the things that hold us back, taking chances, and realizing that sometimes the person you spent years driving crazy might actually understand you better than anyone else. 💕😂
A huge thank you to Liz Vidulich for sending me an advanced copy to read and review. I’m so grateful for the opportunity! 🥰📚
Camp People was such a nostalgic, heartfelt summer romance. 🏕️🌲💕 It had that perfect mix of childhood memories, enemies-to-lovers banter, emotional healing, and figuring out what you really want from life.
Paige and Oliver grew up spending their summers together at Mirror Lake Camp—mostly making each other miserable with an ongoing prank war. 😂 Years later, they’re back at camp together, but both are at very different crossroads in their lives.
Paige is now the camp director and beginning to realize that the place she loves so much might also be holding her back. Oliver, now a traveling nurse, is struggling to find his footing after an accident shakes his confidence. Watching these two reconnect while confronting their pasts and figuring out what comes next was equal parts sweet, funny, and emotional. 🥹❤️
I really loved the themes woven throughout this story. There’s grief, personal growth, family expectations, nostalgia, and that complicated feeling of loving a place while also realizing you may need to let it go in order to move forward. 💭✨
And the summer camp setting was SO good. Set against the Adirondack Mountains, Mirror Lake had that wonderfully nostalgic feeling of a place filled with memories, traditions, friendships, and maybe a little camp mischief. 🌲🔥🏕️
Overall, Camp People was a charming and emotional summer read about letting go of the things that hold us back, taking chances, and realizing that sometimes the person you spent years driving crazy might actually understand you better than anyone else. 💕😂
A huge thank you to Liz Vidulich for sending me an advanced copy to read and review. I’m so grateful for the opportunity! 🥰📚
August 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC ✨
I really enjoyed this debut! While my camp experience (via Girl Scouts) was much different, this made me so nostalgic for the magic of camp, the bonds formed, and the little things that can feel like everything at that age.
The romance was very sweet. The characters had great banter and chemistry, the slow burn kept me hooked and paid off, and I loved how they created a safe space for each other to open up and be vulnerable.
This book also touched heavily on grief and relearning who you are outside of it, which added another layer to the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and I’m looking forward to what the author puts out next!
I really enjoyed this debut! While my camp experience (via Girl Scouts) was much different, this made me so nostalgic for the magic of camp, the bonds formed, and the little things that can feel like everything at that age.
The romance was very sweet. The characters had great banter and chemistry, the slow burn kept me hooked and paid off, and I loved how they created a safe space for each other to open up and be vulnerable.
This book also touched heavily on grief and relearning who you are outside of it, which added another layer to the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and I’m looking forward to what the author puts out next!
August 14, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Prism for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
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Most 27-year-olds don't live full-time at summer camp, but in the years since tragedy left Paige Schilsky alone in the world, Mirror Lake has become her home, from the climbing tower she can scale blindfolded to the renovated boathouse she's decorated as most would their first apartment. When her boss tells her she's overstayed her welcome, Paige resolves to make the most of her last season as camp director-until the arrival of an old colleague threatens to ruin her summer before it begins.
Handsome and cocky, Oliver Trevenen earned Paige's ire from their first meeting, and nothing in the five years they worked together as counselors convinced her he was more than a loud mouth and pretty face. Now that he's back-cute as ever and living in the spare room of her boathouse-Paige is determined to keep her distance, but it's easier said than done in the bubble of summer camp. As they bring old camp traditions to a new generation and share late nights musing over the past, Paige discovers a sensitive person healing beneath Oliver's irreverent facade-and reveals a side of her heart she's long kept hidden.
But September is just around the corner, and with it the perils of adult life Paige has been avoiding. When camp ends, Paige must figure out whether a relationship nurtured by summer and nostalgia-and a life defined by it-can make it in the real world.
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This book called to me because I am a Camp Person. Some of my best days were spent in the great outdoors, having the same kind of experiences that campers go back to Mirror Lake for year after year. My camp was a Girl Scout camp, so it wasn't quite the same, but anyone who is a Camp Person knows the unique joy of spending a summer with all your belongings packed in a foot locker, working with coworkers who become family, leading kids on great adventures, and challenging yourself in ways that make your adult self sometimes wonder just what you were thinking. It's clear that the author of this book is also a Camp Person because she captured the magic of summer camp in this novel perfectly.
Beyond the memories that reading this brought up for me, this book contained within it a sweet frenemies-to-lovers romance that I really enjoyed. It also explores themes of grief, growing up and moving on, and making a brave leap into the unknown of adulthood outside the safety of camp. There were plenty of moments that were little emotional landmines for me, and I found myself shedding a tear or two more than once. And at the end of the book, I felt like I always did after a good summer at camp...a little sad that it was over but loving the experience. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who has fond memories of their summer camp days, but it is also perfect for those who are looking for a romance novel with some emotional depth and a beautiful setting that is perfect for these late summer days.
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Most 27-year-olds don't live full-time at summer camp, but in the years since tragedy left Paige Schilsky alone in the world, Mirror Lake has become her home, from the climbing tower she can scale blindfolded to the renovated boathouse she's decorated as most would their first apartment. When her boss tells her she's overstayed her welcome, Paige resolves to make the most of her last season as camp director-until the arrival of an old colleague threatens to ruin her summer before it begins.
Handsome and cocky, Oliver Trevenen earned Paige's ire from their first meeting, and nothing in the five years they worked together as counselors convinced her he was more than a loud mouth and pretty face. Now that he's back-cute as ever and living in the spare room of her boathouse-Paige is determined to keep her distance, but it's easier said than done in the bubble of summer camp. As they bring old camp traditions to a new generation and share late nights musing over the past, Paige discovers a sensitive person healing beneath Oliver's irreverent facade-and reveals a side of her heart she's long kept hidden.
But September is just around the corner, and with it the perils of adult life Paige has been avoiding. When camp ends, Paige must figure out whether a relationship nurtured by summer and nostalgia-and a life defined by it-can make it in the real world.
----------
This book called to me because I am a Camp Person. Some of my best days were spent in the great outdoors, having the same kind of experiences that campers go back to Mirror Lake for year after year. My camp was a Girl Scout camp, so it wasn't quite the same, but anyone who is a Camp Person knows the unique joy of spending a summer with all your belongings packed in a foot locker, working with coworkers who become family, leading kids on great adventures, and challenging yourself in ways that make your adult self sometimes wonder just what you were thinking. It's clear that the author of this book is also a Camp Person because she captured the magic of summer camp in this novel perfectly.
Beyond the memories that reading this brought up for me, this book contained within it a sweet frenemies-to-lovers romance that I really enjoyed. It also explores themes of grief, growing up and moving on, and making a brave leap into the unknown of adulthood outside the safety of camp. There were plenty of moments that were little emotional landmines for me, and I found myself shedding a tear or two more than once. And at the end of the book, I felt like I always did after a good summer at camp...a little sad that it was over but loving the experience. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who has fond memories of their summer camp days, but it is also perfect for those who are looking for a romance novel with some emotional depth and a beautiful setting that is perfect for these late summer days.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Some books feel like sunscreen, lake water, old friendship bracelets, and the specific emotional damage of realizing summer cannot last forever.
Camp People is one of those books.
Liz Vidulich absolutely nails the pure summer romance vibe here. This is nostalgic, funny, tender, romantic, and quietly devastating in that very specific way stories about growing up tend to be when they are disguised as stories about campfires and canoe docks. I went in expecting charming summer camp chaos and came out emotionally attached to a fictional place like I, too, had unfinished business at Mirror Lake.
Paige is such a compelling protagonist because her avoidance makes complete emotional sense. She is 27, living full-time at summer camp, and deeply committed to the bit of not moving on — except it is not really a bit. Mirror Lake is her home, her safety, her grief container, her entire operating system. Watching her face the possibility of a life beyond camp is tender and painful and, at times, uncomfortably relatable. Adulthood? In this economy? Rude.
And Oliver. Handsome, cocky, irritating, emotionally sneakier than expected Oliver. I loved the way his dynamic with Paige shifted from old resentment and sharp banter into something softer, more vulnerable, and genuinely romantic. Their chemistry has that perfect summer-camp bubble quality: late nights, shared history, forced proximity, nostalgia, and the dangerous intimacy of knowing someone in a place where real life feels briefly suspended.
The setting is everything. Mirror Lake feels fully alive, from the climbing tower to the boathouse to the traditions passed down to a new generation of campers. The camp atmosphere is not just a backdrop; it is the emotional engine of the book. It holds the grief, the romance, the humor, the arrested development, and the ache of knowing that even beloved places can’t save you from change forever.
This is a beautiful summer romance about grief, nostalgia, growing up, found home, and the terrifying act of stepping outside the life that once saved you.
Pure summer romance vibes. No notes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Camp People is one of those books.
Liz Vidulich absolutely nails the pure summer romance vibe here. This is nostalgic, funny, tender, romantic, and quietly devastating in that very specific way stories about growing up tend to be when they are disguised as stories about campfires and canoe docks. I went in expecting charming summer camp chaos and came out emotionally attached to a fictional place like I, too, had unfinished business at Mirror Lake.
Paige is such a compelling protagonist because her avoidance makes complete emotional sense. She is 27, living full-time at summer camp, and deeply committed to the bit of not moving on — except it is not really a bit. Mirror Lake is her home, her safety, her grief container, her entire operating system. Watching her face the possibility of a life beyond camp is tender and painful and, at times, uncomfortably relatable. Adulthood? In this economy? Rude.
And Oliver. Handsome, cocky, irritating, emotionally sneakier than expected Oliver. I loved the way his dynamic with Paige shifted from old resentment and sharp banter into something softer, more vulnerable, and genuinely romantic. Their chemistry has that perfect summer-camp bubble quality: late nights, shared history, forced proximity, nostalgia, and the dangerous intimacy of knowing someone in a place where real life feels briefly suspended.
The setting is everything. Mirror Lake feels fully alive, from the climbing tower to the boathouse to the traditions passed down to a new generation of campers. The camp atmosphere is not just a backdrop; it is the emotional engine of the book. It holds the grief, the romance, the humor, the arrested development, and the ache of knowing that even beloved places can’t save you from change forever.
This is a beautiful summer romance about grief, nostalgia, growing up, found home, and the terrifying act of stepping outside the life that once saved you.
Pure summer romance vibes. No notes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book to review!✨
✨I was so excited to start this book, I tried to read it at 2 am and quite frankly nothing was making sense so I made myself go to bed. BUT THEN I woke up the next morning, started it, and fell in love.
✨This contemporary romance by Liz Vidulich deals with loss, grief, and recovery. How camp culture can provide security, but also, how its fast paced lifestyle can allow people to hide behind the constant chaos that camp culture provides.
✨ The storyline had a great pace! It was fast, consistent, and every scene kept the story moving forward. The writing was really good! I was surprised to learn that this is the first book Liz is publishing. Because of my experience with summer camps, I was familiar with a lot of lingo and overall structure/ culture of camps, but if I wasn’t I might have missed some details! Not enough to impact the story telling, but just be aware!
✨ The characters! The characters!!! They were all so human and unique and incredibly realistic. I love how vulnerable Oliver the MMC was. Paige- the struggles, and complicated emotions she has through this story added so much depth and relatability to this books. She becomes an unreliable narrator because she can’t see past her bias, and watching her work through everything made for a great read.
✨I was a camp counselor at a summer camp on the lake, and this was so nostalgic and realistic.
✨I was so excited to start this book, I tried to read it at 2 am and quite frankly nothing was making sense so I made myself go to bed. BUT THEN I woke up the next morning, started it, and fell in love.
✨This contemporary romance by Liz Vidulich deals with loss, grief, and recovery. How camp culture can provide security, but also, how its fast paced lifestyle can allow people to hide behind the constant chaos that camp culture provides.
✨ The storyline had a great pace! It was fast, consistent, and every scene kept the story moving forward. The writing was really good! I was surprised to learn that this is the first book Liz is publishing. Because of my experience with summer camps, I was familiar with a lot of lingo and overall structure/ culture of camps, but if I wasn’t I might have missed some details! Not enough to impact the story telling, but just be aware!
✨ The characters! The characters!!! They were all so human and unique and incredibly realistic. I love how vulnerable Oliver the MMC was. Paige- the struggles, and complicated emotions she has through this story added so much depth and relatability to this books. She becomes an unreliable narrator because she can’t see past her bias, and watching her work through everything made for a great read.
✨I was a camp counselor at a summer camp on the lake, and this was so nostalgic and realistic.
August 13, 2026
[4.5] My husband introduced me to Netgalley and this was the first thing that caught my eye. A beautiful cover + the title was enough for me. As a real life camp people myself (7 years at camp - 5 full time) I’m always looking for a book that “gets it.” I received this e-arc from the publisher.
Camp People follows Paige as she spends her last summer at her long-time camp. From camper to program director her boss has told her it’s time for her to move on as camp is a place to grow, not plant roots. She plans to have the best summer ever…until an old colleague/crush/enemy walks through the door to complicate things.
Camp People was the first camp book I read where the author actually got camp. Granted, I’m from a Christian Camp background so some of the happenings were not my experience; but, the long days, the family that is your colleagues, loving the hardest kids to love, and pushing yourself to all limits. This embodied the experience. Yay - Finally!
The whole story was well-rounded. Nice, real talks about mental health. A real look at grief. Yes, some romance. I would say this was a 2-2.5 on the spicy scale but nothing that made me cringe.
I would recommend this book to anyone who has been a camp person. Id also recommend this to anyone who wants a book that feels like summer with a dash of romance. A non-camp person might get a little lost in the vernacular and day to day but I found it to be really enjoyable.
Camp People follows Paige as she spends her last summer at her long-time camp. From camper to program director her boss has told her it’s time for her to move on as camp is a place to grow, not plant roots. She plans to have the best summer ever…until an old colleague/crush/enemy walks through the door to complicate things.
Camp People was the first camp book I read where the author actually got camp. Granted, I’m from a Christian Camp background so some of the happenings were not my experience; but, the long days, the family that is your colleagues, loving the hardest kids to love, and pushing yourself to all limits. This embodied the experience. Yay - Finally!
The whole story was well-rounded. Nice, real talks about mental health. A real look at grief. Yes, some romance. I would say this was a 2-2.5 on the spicy scale but nothing that made me cringe.
I would recommend this book to anyone who has been a camp person. Id also recommend this to anyone who wants a book that feels like summer with a dash of romance. A non-camp person might get a little lost in the vernacular and day to day but I found it to be really enjoyable.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Paige and Oliver are childhood camp enemies who relentlessly pranked each other throughout their summers growing up together. Paige, a camp director, is outgrowing her role at Mirror Lake camp, but is holding herself back because of her parents' connection to the place. Oliver, a traveling nurse, is struggling to regain his footing after an unfortunate accident shakes his confidence. Both have to set aside their differences to host a transformational summer for the camp.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains, Camp People is an emotional, witty, and deeply cathartic contemporary coming-of-age romance about the paths we choose and the assumptions that hold us back. Perfect for fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope, this timeless summer read beautifully explores the intricate connections between grief, personal growth, and the nostalgic places that shape who we are. It is a poignant coming-of-age story about learning to let go of the past to truly start living.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains, Camp People is an emotional, witty, and deeply cathartic contemporary coming-of-age romance about the paths we choose and the assumptions that hold us back. Perfect for fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope, this timeless summer read beautifully explores the intricate connections between grief, personal growth, and the nostalgic places that shape who we are. It is a poignant coming-of-age story about learning to let go of the past to truly start living.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in return for an honest review. This is a perfect summer read that I really enjoyed! I was intrigued with the idea of an enemies to lovers romance mixed in with summer camp shenanigans. I felt the author's writing did a really great job of immersing me in summer camp from the Counselors/Directors perspectives. I was suprised that this was the author's first book and look forward to another.
The main character, Paige who is the director of Senior camp, pulled me in right from the start. Along with dealing with grief, her boss told her she needed to leave her job at the end of the summer because her boss felt she was stuck. Paige created a BSE (best summer ever) list to enjoy and make the best of her last summer at camp. While looking forward to completing her BSE, Paige finds out that her arch-enemy, Oliver, has just taken on a nurse role at the camp. I really enoyed reading how Paige navigated everything along her path to healing and growth. Highly recommend.
The main character, Paige who is the director of Senior camp, pulled me in right from the start. Along with dealing with grief, her boss told her she needed to leave her job at the end of the summer because her boss felt she was stuck. Paige created a BSE (best summer ever) list to enjoy and make the best of her last summer at camp. While looking forward to completing her BSE, Paige finds out that her arch-enemy, Oliver, has just taken on a nurse role at the camp. I really enoyed reading how Paige navigated everything along her path to healing and growth. Highly recommend.
August 12, 2026
Happy publication day!
First of all, I want to state that if you’re going to put Emily Henry comparisons in the description, you’re shooting yourself in the foot a little bit because those are really big shoes to fill. I definitely got the Wet Hot American Summer comparisons though, and that alone would have been enough to hook me.
In Camp People, Paige and Oliver are reunited at the camp where they met as teenagers. There has always been tension between the two of them. Paige insists it’s because she hates him but anyone with eyes can tell it’s because of the attraction the two had to each other, which is still very much present as adults.
I’ve never been to camp as a teenager, but this book makes me almost wish that I had. I really like books (especially romance novels) that are in this setting, I think it really lends itself to some really rich storytelling that weaves past and present together in such a unique way.
This was a fantastic debut that’s full of nostalgia and heart and really likable characters who you can’t help but to root for. It’s also really well written and I can’t wait to see what this author has coming next!
First of all, I want to state that if you’re going to put Emily Henry comparisons in the description, you’re shooting yourself in the foot a little bit because those are really big shoes to fill. I definitely got the Wet Hot American Summer comparisons though, and that alone would have been enough to hook me.
In Camp People, Paige and Oliver are reunited at the camp where they met as teenagers. There has always been tension between the two of them. Paige insists it’s because she hates him but anyone with eyes can tell it’s because of the attraction the two had to each other, which is still very much present as adults.
I’ve never been to camp as a teenager, but this book makes me almost wish that I had. I really like books (especially romance novels) that are in this setting, I think it really lends itself to some really rich storytelling that weaves past and present together in such a unique way.
This was a fantastic debut that’s full of nostalgia and heart and really likable characters who you can’t help but to root for. It’s also really well written and I can’t wait to see what this author has coming next!
June 2, 2026
First a big thank you to NetGalley for giving me an e-ARC of Camp People by Liz Vidulich.
Camp People was such a surprising read! Especially when I found out that this is a debut novel for this author. I thought it was witty, heart-warming, gut wrenching and interesting. I loved the writing style. Excellent story telling.
The reader meets Paige while on a trail as she reminisces about her parents who have passed and we quickly learn how Paige is a year round camp director for students. She’s good at her job and loves what she does, even when a boy from her past shows up to bunk with her and work alongside her for her last summer at camp. And so ensues a tale about grief, growth and the tangled up mess that we humans seem to get ourselves in while trying to compartmentalize our lives.
Truly well written and touching. I cried and laughed out loud and kicked my feet while reading this one. I can’t wait to see what other stories Liz Vidulich has up her sleeve.
Camp People was such a surprising read! Especially when I found out that this is a debut novel for this author. I thought it was witty, heart-warming, gut wrenching and interesting. I loved the writing style. Excellent story telling.
The reader meets Paige while on a trail as she reminisces about her parents who have passed and we quickly learn how Paige is a year round camp director for students. She’s good at her job and loves what she does, even when a boy from her past shows up to bunk with her and work alongside her for her last summer at camp. And so ensues a tale about grief, growth and the tangled up mess that we humans seem to get ourselves in while trying to compartmentalize our lives.
Truly well written and touching. I cried and laughed out loud and kicked my feet while reading this one. I can’t wait to see what other stories Liz Vidulich has up her sleeve.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this one overall! I love a good summer camp setting, and I thought the camp itself was really well written. The main characters felt authentic, and I felt that Paige’s actions made sense given everything she had been through. I also appreciated Oliver’s growth and felt like his character development was fitting. The side plots and campers added to the story, even if most of them didn’t leave a huge impression on me.
That said, while the book kept my attention for the most part, the slower sections really dragged. The romance was just okay, and I wish it had packed a bit more of an emotional punch. I was also disappointed by how quickly the ending wrapped up, with major relationship developments happening over the span of just a few pages. Overall, this was a cute, enjoyable read, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
I enjoyed this one overall! I love a good summer camp setting, and I thought the camp itself was really well written. The main characters felt authentic, and I felt that Paige’s actions made sense given everything she had been through. I also appreciated Oliver’s growth and felt like his character development was fitting. The side plots and campers added to the story, even if most of them didn’t leave a huge impression on me.
That said, while the book kept my attention for the most part, the slower sections really dragged. The romance was just okay, and I wish it had packed a bit more of an emotional punch. I was also disappointed by how quickly the ending wrapped up, with major relationship developments happening over the span of just a few pages. Overall, this was a cute, enjoyable read, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Camp People on the way home from vacation, and I couldn’t put it down.
I never liked summer camp as a kid—the bugs, the heat, the gross toilets, the cafeteria food. It wasn’t for me, but reading about Mirror Lake made me wish I’d attended it.
Paige, the Director of Senior Camp, has to leave her job at summer’s end because her boss thinks she’s stuck and needs some tough love to move on. Paige makes a BSE (Best Summer Ever) List to enjoy her last summer at Mirror Lake while she figures out her shit, like getting a car and a new job.
Her summer goes from bad to worse when she discovers her arch-enemy, Oliver, is not only Mirror Lake's new nurse but also her roommate. As summer passes, will their hatred turn into friendship, and maybe something more, or will it end up being Paige's worst summer ever?
It’s a story about grief, found family, and opening yourself up to new things after loss. Plus, summer camp shenanigans! It’s the perfect summer read.
I never liked summer camp as a kid—the bugs, the heat, the gross toilets, the cafeteria food. It wasn’t for me, but reading about Mirror Lake made me wish I’d attended it.
Paige, the Director of Senior Camp, has to leave her job at summer’s end because her boss thinks she’s stuck and needs some tough love to move on. Paige makes a BSE (Best Summer Ever) List to enjoy her last summer at Mirror Lake while she figures out her shit, like getting a car and a new job.
Her summer goes from bad to worse when she discovers her arch-enemy, Oliver, is not only Mirror Lake's new nurse but also her roommate. As summer passes, will their hatred turn into friendship, and maybe something more, or will it end up being Paige's worst summer ever?
It’s a story about grief, found family, and opening yourself up to new things after loss. Plus, summer camp shenanigans! It’s the perfect summer read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really wanted to love this one because the title and cover immediately caught my attention. They gave me cozy, atmospheric vibes and had me excited to jump in. Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me.
That being said, my rating does not mean this is a bad book. It simply came down to personal taste. I realized while reading that I'm just not all that into romance, and since that was such a big focus of the story, I struggled to stay invested. The writing was solid, and I can absolutely see why readers who enjoy romance would connect with it much more than I did.
Sometimes a book just isn't the right fit for a particular reader, and that's exactly how I feel here. I'm still glad I gave it a chance because that gorgeous cover and intriguing title pulled me in, even if the story itself didn't end up being what I was looking for.
That being said, my rating does not mean this is a bad book. It simply came down to personal taste. I realized while reading that I'm just not all that into romance, and since that was such a big focus of the story, I struggled to stay invested. The writing was solid, and I can absolutely see why readers who enjoy romance would connect with it much more than I did.
Sometimes a book just isn't the right fit for a particular reader, and that's exactly how I feel here. I'm still glad I gave it a chance because that gorgeous cover and intriguing title pulled me in, even if the story itself didn't end up being what I was looking for.
July 31, 2026
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the Advanced Readers Copy.
This story has a heavy dose of nostalgia especially if you’ve experienced summer camps at some level. From mentions of familiar camp songs to closing campfires the former summer camp counselor in me was jumping for joy.
I can see fans of Emily Henry eating this up. Tension palpable and believable from the start. A second-chance romance with a lot of heart. Paige and Oliver’s relationship was fun, believable, and sexy.
This handles heavy topics with grace and maturity while keeping the romcom vibe and heart all in one.
A truly enjoyable read that made me emotional, made me laugh out loud, and made me yearn for my former camp life where I too met my husband. I always have a special place in my heart for a summer camp romance.
This story has a heavy dose of nostalgia especially if you’ve experienced summer camps at some level. From mentions of familiar camp songs to closing campfires the former summer camp counselor in me was jumping for joy.
I can see fans of Emily Henry eating this up. Tension palpable and believable from the start. A second-chance romance with a lot of heart. Paige and Oliver’s relationship was fun, believable, and sexy.
This handles heavy topics with grace and maturity while keeping the romcom vibe and heart all in one.
A truly enjoyable read that made me emotional, made me laugh out loud, and made me yearn for my former camp life where I too met my husband. I always have a special place in my heart for a summer camp romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love, love, loved it. Funny, heartfelt, romantic, and so beautifully written.
This book is exactly what I want from a rom-com. It's swoony and dreamy—SUCH good chemistry—and yet still feels incredibly real, with a deep emotional connection and growth for both characters. (Makes my heart melt how much Oliver genuinely respects Paige's confidence and sense of who she is.)
The characters and the summer camp setting feel so fleshed out and fully realized. By the end, I felt nostalgic for a camp I've never even attended.
The writing is just a cut above. The descriptions are super evocative and the jokes genuinely made me laugh—even snorted a couple of times! The banter is sharp, funny, and effortless.
There was a lot of squee-ing while reading this one.
This book is exactly what I want from a rom-com. It's swoony and dreamy—SUCH good chemistry—and yet still feels incredibly real, with a deep emotional connection and growth for both characters. (Makes my heart melt how much Oliver genuinely respects Paige's confidence and sense of who she is.)
The characters and the summer camp setting feel so fleshed out and fully realized. By the end, I felt nostalgic for a camp I've never even attended.
The writing is just a cut above. The descriptions are super evocative and the jokes genuinely made me laugh—even snorted a couple of times! The banter is sharp, funny, and effortless.
There was a lot of squee-ing while reading this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Camp People is a sweet debut about knowing when to put down roots and when to spread your wings. Paige grew up tethered to the summer camp where her parents met as counselors and after tragedy, it’s the one place she feels at home. But when life forces her to choose between holding on to the past and embracing the future, she has to decide who she is and what she wants.
This one didn’t fully sweep me away or hijack my emotions the way some books do. Don’t come for witty banter or big swoony feels, come for a quiet story about growth, self-discovery, and second chances.
You'll love it if you have fond memories of camp, childhood crushes, and are a sucker for nostalgia.
Thank you Netgally for the ARC!
This one didn’t fully sweep me away or hijack my emotions the way some books do. Don’t come for witty banter or big swoony feels, come for a quiet story about growth, self-discovery, and second chances.
You'll love it if you have fond memories of camp, childhood crushes, and are a sucker for nostalgia.
Thank you Netgally for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
this was a sweet, lukewarm rom-com that was easy enough for a “camp person” like myself to enjoy, but i can’t say i loved it — too much of the plot felt a little thin and thrown together. i did appreciate the down-to-earth dialogue and i loved how paige’s camp friendships were depicted with the kind of undying loyalty that any camp person understands, but even those could have benefited from a little finesse. thank you to netgalley and the author for an early copy of this summer read in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oof, this writing style was not for me, I almost gave up a few times but felt guilty since I requested this ARC from NetGalley. I found myself reading and re-reading sentences because for some reason my interest was not being held, which is strange because I love romances, camping, and books about the outdoors. I felt this book dragged on and the slow parts were really slow. I think there was not enough romance and a little too much focus on camp activities and the main character's struggle with her own life. She was in a rut and I felt like I was in a rut reading about it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m not a romance aficionado by any means- but this book captivated me from beginning to end. The author transported me to a place I didn’t want to leave: an idyllic summer camp full of rich and nuanced characters- characters who quickly felt like my personal friends. It’s impossible not to be fully invested from the jump…and to shed more than a few tears at the emotional conclusion. I’d recommend this book to anyone.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I always love a good summer camp book. I couldn't believe this was a debut. Such a great read. The Romance, the emotion, the camp setting. I loved it. I loved seeing the relationship between the main characters develop throughout the summer. This is the perfect beach read. The writing flowed, and it was nice to escape from life for a bit. Highly recommend.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2026
What a cozy story filled with nostalgia, grief, healing, and — of course — romance! Plenty of second-chance / enemies-to-lovers vibes. I loved hanging out with Paige & Oliver at Mirror Lake and witnessing them come together as they navigated their vulnerabilities, their fears, and their hopes for the future. This was the perfect late summer read! 💖
Thanks to Netgalley & Elizabeth Vidulich for the eARC 📖
Thanks to Netgalley & Elizabeth Vidulich for the eARC 📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book made me cry in the best way. Paige's journey towards a life and a love that honors her roots and gives her room to grow was so poignant and satisfying. I cried, I cheered, I swooned. I'm going to be recommending it to all my friends. Now if only I could go back in time and go to summer camp!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I never went to summer camp, but this book made me feel like I would love to go. I resonating with the soul searching experience. When reading this book you could see it all happening in your mind the experiences, why they made the decisions they did, and the romance between two friends and someone you thought you used to know.
3.5 stars
1.5 chili peppers
3.5 stars
1.5 chili peppers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was so good! Our main characters were truly the embodiment of the phrase “to be seen is to be loved.” I really truly felt like they SAW each other.
This book also felt like such a comfy reminder of my summer camp years. I love this!
This book also felt like such a comfy reminder of my summer camp years. I love this!
June 29, 2026
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC of this book! As a camp girlie, I of course ate this book up. Every little detail was so on point that I felt like it was written explicitly for me. I loved the characters and their development so much and I can’t wait to see what Liz does next!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As someone who goes to summer camp every year, I love this book. Perfect vibes and characters. 10/10 no notes! Thank you to Netgalley and Liz for providing me this book in exchange for my honest review!
August 25, 2026
Vidulich write camp in a way that brings you right back to your bunk and makes you feel like you are sitting by the lake. She captures summer, love and friendship in a beautiful way. A must read for anyone who loves summers.
August 29, 2026
Cute, easy, heartwarming read. Breakup happening like 85% in is stressful even tho u know they’ll get back together
Thank you NetGalley for the arc
Thank you NetGalley for the arc
August 16, 2026
Received an ARC, I am voluntarily reviewing with my personal opinions.
I admit, I am a Camp Person. Never as a camper due to family finances but to make up for it, I worked at 3 different camps over 8 years. This book hit so close to home as I have no clue what my path looked like in my 20s and I clung to camp life. This brought me back, I could feel it, smell it, hear it. The author did a very good job of bringing Mirror Lake to life.
I would have liked to learn more about Paige and Oliver in their councillor days, and more about her relationship with Kat previously.
Overall, it hooked me and I was satisfied by the ending!
I admit, I am a Camp Person. Never as a camper due to family finances but to make up for it, I worked at 3 different camps over 8 years. This book hit so close to home as I have no clue what my path looked like in my 20s and I clung to camp life. This brought me back, I could feel it, smell it, hear it. The author did a very good job of bringing Mirror Lake to life.
I would have liked to learn more about Paige and Oliver in their councillor days, and more about her relationship with Kat previously.
Overall, it hooked me and I was satisfied by the ending!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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