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The Followers
The Followers is a sharp debut that explores themes of peer pressure, girlhood, identity, social capital, and how schoolyard dynamics translate to social media.
Friendship with Lacey felt like a warm hand pressing very tightly against my throat. The difficulty breathing felt better than the chill of abandonment that overcame me every time she would, just for a second, relax the pressure.
Beautiful, manipulative Lacey is a lifestyle influencer turned bestselling author who preaches self-love and body confidence to her million followers.
But one of those followers is Teresa. She remembers Lacey as a prepubescent mean girl who kept the loyal members of her gang—Teresa included—on a short leash. Twenty years later, she watches Lacey from afar with the ghost of her younger self and a copy of Lacey's new self-help book for company—both determined to keep the past alive.
The Followers is a keenly observed and darkly funny exploration of coming of age in the social media era and how the children we were shape the adults we become.
'I could not put this book down: Maree Spratt's characters gripped me from the first sentence. The Followers is a sophisticated and serious satire, showing the machinations of the minds of young pre-teen girls with the depth they so deserve, but rarely get, in literature.' — Alice Pung
- GenresFiction
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 15, 2026
So much better than I thought it would be!! This is less about an influencer and more about these two girls in Brisbane in the 90s / early 00s who are caught in this weird dynamic - and how some people are naturally leaders and some are followers - and how social media is just amplifying existing dynamics.
got big flashbacks when they said “peace be with you” oml
got big flashbacks when they said “peace be with you” oml
July 26, 2026
3.5⭐️ rounded up
In the best possible way, this book seriously captured what it feels like growing up as a girl in Australia. It so accurately described all the awkwardness, self-esteem issues, and the intense desire to fit in. What I think book did best was depict the myriad of characters that it feels like we all encounter growing up through primary and high school, and the impact they all have on who we turn out to be. We spent more of the book in the past than I expected but the ending, set in present tense, felt incredibly apt.
In the best possible way, this book seriously captured what it feels like growing up as a girl in Australia. It so accurately described all the awkwardness, self-esteem issues, and the intense desire to fit in. What I think book did best was depict the myriad of characters that it feels like we all encounter growing up through primary and high school, and the impact they all have on who we turn out to be. We spent more of the book in the past than I expected but the ending, set in present tense, felt incredibly apt.
July 1, 2026
This would make an excellent book club pick. It’s a novel built on moral ambiguity, where characters are nuanced enough that readers will likely come away with very different interpretations of who deserves sympathy, who deserves criticism, and whether certain choices are ever truly justified.
At the centre is the relationship between the two main characters. Their friendship has a toxic push–pull magnetism: the narrator is simultaneously mesmerised and repulsed, judgemental yet conspiratorial, always seeking Lacey’s approval even as she resists it. That tension drives much of the book’s emotional impact.
Lacey is a wonderfully complex character who invites endless debate. Like a literary Regina George, she has a performative charm and occasional warmth that never fully feels safe - there’s always the sense that another motive might be operating underneath. At the same time, she can be read as a tragic figure: someone either deeply manipulative, profoundly misunderstood, or simply desperate for love and acceptance in ways that distort her behaviour.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its portrayal of female friendship. Rather than sentimentalising it, the book explores how girls can be just as capable of cruelty, manipulation, and power struggles as boys. The conflict is rarely physical; instead, it plays out through secrets, exclusion, alliances, status, and emotional leverage. It becomes almost like a female Lord of the Flies, with some scenes that are genuinely gut-wrenching in their social precision.
The suburban Brisbane setting adds a distinctive texture to the story as well, grounding these dynamics in a recognisable, specific world that feels fresh rather than generic.
Overall, I found it an absorbing and unsettling read, and one that stays with you precisely because it resists easy moral conclusions. I’m looking forward to discussing it with others, and to reading more from Maree Spratt.
At the centre is the relationship between the two main characters. Their friendship has a toxic push–pull magnetism: the narrator is simultaneously mesmerised and repulsed, judgemental yet conspiratorial, always seeking Lacey’s approval even as she resists it. That tension drives much of the book’s emotional impact.
Lacey is a wonderfully complex character who invites endless debate. Like a literary Regina George, she has a performative charm and occasional warmth that never fully feels safe - there’s always the sense that another motive might be operating underneath. At the same time, she can be read as a tragic figure: someone either deeply manipulative, profoundly misunderstood, or simply desperate for love and acceptance in ways that distort her behaviour.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its portrayal of female friendship. Rather than sentimentalising it, the book explores how girls can be just as capable of cruelty, manipulation, and power struggles as boys. The conflict is rarely physical; instead, it plays out through secrets, exclusion, alliances, status, and emotional leverage. It becomes almost like a female Lord of the Flies, with some scenes that are genuinely gut-wrenching in their social precision.
The suburban Brisbane setting adds a distinctive texture to the story as well, grounding these dynamics in a recognisable, specific world that feels fresh rather than generic.
Overall, I found it an absorbing and unsettling read, and one that stays with you precisely because it resists easy moral conclusions. I’m looking forward to discussing it with others, and to reading more from Maree Spratt.
September 22, 2026
This book had really good potential to make some interesting insight on looking back on childhood friends & their influence they have on you (and may still have). 💫
However it did this for about 1 chapter and the rest of the book was from the perspective of the child herself going through school with her mean girl friend and I honestly couldnt care less 💀.
Actually kind of sad because the premise was very interesting but the actual execution was just odd 😭
However it did this for about 1 chapter and the rest of the book was from the perspective of the child herself going through school with her mean girl friend and I honestly couldnt care less 💀.
Actually kind of sad because the premise was very interesting but the actual execution was just odd 😭
August 22, 2026
I don’t think the premise accurately describes this book. Most of the book is told from the perspective of Theresa as a child and teenager.
The part of this novel that did shine for me is how accurately the author captured the feelings and experiences of growing up in the 90s and 2000s in Australia.
The part of this novel that did shine for me is how accurately the author captured the feelings and experiences of growing up in the 90s and 2000s in Australia.
September 24, 2026
A very interesting read and not what I was expecting at all. It almost felt a bit like reading an autobiography with a very realistic and detailed portrait of the awkwardness of adolescence. I felt like I was waiting for something major to happen the whole time and in some ways it did, some it didn’t, but I was fascinated by the characters, especially the portrayal of Lacey.
September 24, 2026
3.5★
Solid. Really captured the Australian schooling experience and explored schoolyard dynamics that took me back. Also explored bullying and toxic friendship, particularly through the main character Theresa's relationship with Lacey. I like that the book painted a complicated portrait of Lacey where we slowly begin to understand her more as Theresa does.
I just kept wanting a little bit more from it though. Maybe that just comes with the territory of a realism novel set in the suburbs of Brisbane - much of it was mundane, and the big moments didn't hit hard for me.
Solid. Really captured the Australian schooling experience and explored schoolyard dynamics that took me back. Also explored bullying and toxic friendship, particularly through the main character Theresa's relationship with Lacey. I like that the book painted a complicated portrait of Lacey where we slowly begin to understand her more as Theresa does.
I just kept wanting a little bit more from it though. Maybe that just comes with the territory of a realism novel set in the suburbs of Brisbane - much of it was mundane, and the big moments didn't hit hard for me.
July 30, 2026
Reading this book felt like I was back in my primary school classroom being taught about the importance of not being a bystander.
I thought it was going to go into depth about the “bully” and expose her for her true behaviour but it was literally just the perspective of one of her follower friends as they’re a kid.
I thought it was going to go into depth about the “bully” and expose her for her true behaviour but it was literally just the perspective of one of her follower friends as they’re a kid.
September 8, 2026
Not what I expected. Gives an accurate account of growing up as a kid in the 90s but ultimately found it a bit boring.
July 21, 2026
Sorry but this book was terrible. Most was written from the perspective of a primary school student who was too scared to be an upstander, increasing trying to fit in with the crowd. Ugh I really hoped there’d be a better and stronger message to combat the poor writing but no…
August 7, 2026
Who wants to read about a group of preteens waiting for their period to come while playing marbles? Not me.
Not what I expected this book to be.
DNF at 50%
Not what I expected this book to be.
DNF at 50%
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ladies and gentlemen, it might only be May, but I am certain I have found one of my top reads for 2026. What a debut! This book was hands-down incredible—in a sophisticated, understated kind of way, and it completely wrecked me. I can really feel the love, time, and careful consideration that went into making this book (15 years!). Words cannot do this gem justice, but I will try to give it the respect and time it deserves.
“Things become the truth when you record them, and they disappear if you don’t”
The Followers is a poignant, contemplative, and deeply thought-provoking coming-of-age story exploring Teresa’s journey, told in a series of moments spanning 20 years, from girlhood to working adult. It is mostly set in the past, but we do get some well-placed moments in the present—and this mystery of ‘what even happened to cause the present state?’ drives the story forward. This story sharply examines how early-life experiences can shape the people we become, as well as the insidious role peer pressure, social capital, socioeconomic status, identity and body image, plays.
It’s been a while since I was in high school, not to mention primary school—but boy did this book successfully transport me all the way back. Many elements of the setting and schoolyard dynamics were viscerally familiar, but I do have the added advantage of going to school around a close-enough time to our protagonists. Additionally, perhaps the result of this book being completed over 15 years, or perhaps the fruit of meticulous research—but this book absolutely NAILED the details of each time period and phase in life. For instance: collecting marbles, going to the bathroom in groups, Bloody Mary tales, sleepovers, chain emails (pass it on or be cursed), the use of MSN and shift towards Facebook then Instagram & Reddit, references to music fitting the time (e.g. Complicated by Avril Lavigne), Cosmo magazines, COVID-19 pandemic…and so many more! It all felt very authentic, relatable, and made immersion effortless.
“everyone is the average of the five people they surround themselves with”
The characters are incredibly nuanced and compelling—you could easily write an entire essay dissecting the intricacies of Teresa or Lacey alone, but I will not for spoiler and brevity’s sake, and just say neither is near innocent nor truly evil. I enjoyed seeing how background, life experiences and people in their life clearly shaped each character, and I particularly celebrated the personal growth they each went through over the years. I did not think I would like Lacey after the first part, but the book had me completely invested in her growth and ultimately wishing well for her at the end. What also helped the immersion and authenticity of the book was how flawlessly the author adapted Teresa’s voice to her age—her narration as a Year 4 student, middle school student, and adult, all differed and each were spot-on. Further, the key relationship between Teresa and Lacey is incredibly complex and so darkly enthralling. In a way they are toxic for each other, but they also filled a void in the other’s life at times, have so much history together, and both have had an undeniable impact on the other’s trajectory. I really liked seeing how their dynamic shifted each time they met again after growing on their own.
I have been in a protracted book hangover since the night I stayed up until 5am binge reading the ending. The same way our protagonists have a love-hate relationship with each other, I both obsess over and am emotionally-destroyed by how events panned out in this book! To an extent, perhaps it always had to pan out this way, but I think the twist of the knife is how well it reflects the cruel reality of life: growing up is losing things. Maree Spratt got me so immersed and invested in the characters’ stories that there were better moments I wished with all-my-heart the characters could freeze in and live-among forever (and was inevitably heartbroken when the stark reminder came that this was and never is possible).
“That’s the sign of a good friend, right? They have enough dirt on you to blackmail you but you know that they never would”
Your honour, it hurts. Middle school Lacey and Teresa are messed up but will forever be my roman empire.
Thank you so much to Maree Spratt for writing this incredible book, and to Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read this ARC via NetGalley. This was truly special and I will definitely be ordering the paperback. For lovers of coming-of-age stories and books like Bridge to Terabithia—this one is for you.
“Things become the truth when you record them, and they disappear if you don’t”
The Followers is a poignant, contemplative, and deeply thought-provoking coming-of-age story exploring Teresa’s journey, told in a series of moments spanning 20 years, from girlhood to working adult. It is mostly set in the past, but we do get some well-placed moments in the present—and this mystery of ‘what even happened to cause the present state?’ drives the story forward. This story sharply examines how early-life experiences can shape the people we become, as well as the insidious role peer pressure, social capital, socioeconomic status, identity and body image, plays.
It’s been a while since I was in high school, not to mention primary school—but boy did this book successfully transport me all the way back. Many elements of the setting and schoolyard dynamics were viscerally familiar, but I do have the added advantage of going to school around a close-enough time to our protagonists. Additionally, perhaps the result of this book being completed over 15 years, or perhaps the fruit of meticulous research—but this book absolutely NAILED the details of each time period and phase in life. For instance: collecting marbles, going to the bathroom in groups, Bloody Mary tales, sleepovers, chain emails (pass it on or be cursed), the use of MSN and shift towards Facebook then Instagram & Reddit, references to music fitting the time (e.g. Complicated by Avril Lavigne), Cosmo magazines, COVID-19 pandemic…and so many more! It all felt very authentic, relatable, and made immersion effortless.
“everyone is the average of the five people they surround themselves with”
The characters are incredibly nuanced and compelling—you could easily write an entire essay dissecting the intricacies of Teresa or Lacey alone, but I will not for spoiler and brevity’s sake, and just say neither is near innocent nor truly evil. I enjoyed seeing how background, life experiences and people in their life clearly shaped each character, and I particularly celebrated the personal growth they each went through over the years. I did not think I would like Lacey after the first part, but the book had me completely invested in her growth and ultimately wishing well for her at the end. What also helped the immersion and authenticity of the book was how flawlessly the author adapted Teresa’s voice to her age—her narration as a Year 4 student, middle school student, and adult, all differed and each were spot-on. Further, the key relationship between Teresa and Lacey is incredibly complex and so darkly enthralling. In a way they are toxic for each other, but they also filled a void in the other’s life at times, have so much history together, and both have had an undeniable impact on the other’s trajectory. I really liked seeing how their dynamic shifted each time they met again after growing on their own.
I have been in a protracted book hangover since the night I stayed up until 5am binge reading the ending. The same way our protagonists have a love-hate relationship with each other, I both obsess over and am emotionally-destroyed by how events panned out in this book! To an extent, perhaps it always had to pan out this way, but I think the twist of the knife is how well it reflects the cruel reality of life: growing up is losing things. Maree Spratt got me so immersed and invested in the characters’ stories that there were better moments I wished with all-my-heart the characters could freeze in and live-among forever (and was inevitably heartbroken when the stark reminder came that this was and never is possible).
“That’s the sign of a good friend, right? They have enough dirt on you to blackmail you but you know that they never would”
Your honour, it hurts. Middle school Lacey and Teresa are messed up but will forever be my roman empire.
Thank you so much to Maree Spratt for writing this incredible book, and to Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read this ARC via NetGalley. This was truly special and I will definitely be ordering the paperback. For lovers of coming-of-age stories and books like Bridge to Terabithia—this one is for you.
September 5, 2026
Our book club just finished reading and discussing this book, and wow!
The Followers felt to me like a beautifully observed vignette of childhood- particularly the richness and complexity of primary school girls’ lives: stuff they do, how they think and feel, how they relate to one another, and how they begin to find their individual identities within the collective.
The childhood dynamics felt very relatable. Each character is distinct, and I particularly enjoyed the multicultural Brisbane setting and the unique flavour it brings to the story.
What stayed with me most, though, was how much of those childhood dynamics we continue to carry into adulthood. More forceful personalities can still subtly pull us into doing things that aren't entirely in line with what we want - sometimes without either person fully recognising what is happening - only for resentment to emerge later. It made me think about how early we learn the roles of leader, follower, pleaser, outsider and observer, and how easily we can slip back into them as adults. It also made me think about the fine line between being open to persuasion, even to adventure, and surrendering our own judgement to someone else. Influence can take us beyond ourselves, but at what point does going along with someone become following?
For that reason, I don't think The Followers is simply a book about social media. The followers are there from the beginning, long before anyone is behind a screen. Social media just gives following a new form. Perhaps there is even a strange kind of freedom in following someone online: you can orbit another person without necessarily having to experience what it feels like to live under the full force of their gravity.
A thoughtful, perceptive exploration of girlhood, identity, belonging and influence and one that left me reflecting on just how much of the schoolyard we carry with us into adulthood.
The Followers felt to me like a beautifully observed vignette of childhood- particularly the richness and complexity of primary school girls’ lives: stuff they do, how they think and feel, how they relate to one another, and how they begin to find their individual identities within the collective.
The childhood dynamics felt very relatable. Each character is distinct, and I particularly enjoyed the multicultural Brisbane setting and the unique flavour it brings to the story.
What stayed with me most, though, was how much of those childhood dynamics we continue to carry into adulthood. More forceful personalities can still subtly pull us into doing things that aren't entirely in line with what we want - sometimes without either person fully recognising what is happening - only for resentment to emerge later. It made me think about how early we learn the roles of leader, follower, pleaser, outsider and observer, and how easily we can slip back into them as adults. It also made me think about the fine line between being open to persuasion, even to adventure, and surrendering our own judgement to someone else. Influence can take us beyond ourselves, but at what point does going along with someone become following?
For that reason, I don't think The Followers is simply a book about social media. The followers are there from the beginning, long before anyone is behind a screen. Social media just gives following a new form. Perhaps there is even a strange kind of freedom in following someone online: you can orbit another person without necessarily having to experience what it feels like to live under the full force of their gravity.
A thoughtful, perceptive exploration of girlhood, identity, belonging and influence and one that left me reflecting on just how much of the schoolyard we carry with us into adulthood.
July 26, 2026
When I first started this book, I thought I was going to binge it all in one night because I was so caught up in the premise of the story, but I feel like the blurb paints a picture of the book that isn’t quite right.
From reading the blurb, you assume that you’ll spend a lot of time hearing from adult Teresa and see interactions between her and adult Lacey (her ex childhood friend turned influencer) - instead, about 80% of the book is just Teresa reliving her childhood friendship with Lacey.
Don’t get me wrong; as someone who also grew up in Australia during the late 90s-mid 2010’s- this was incredibly nostalgic and had so many elements of what it meant to be a kid during this time.
From marbles, to Bloody Mary, tMSN and Dolly magazine - it follows the ups and downs of female friendship; however Lacey is quite the bully and some of the things she does are downright disturbing. Teresa is no better; she is a silent observer to this behaviour - always too shy to speak up.
More than halfway through the book, we get to a point where the direction suddenly pivots back to adult Teresa, but it’s almost as if the author wasn’t quite sure what to do once she got back to her.
The story doesn’t really go anywhere from there, the ending is a bit dissatisfying if I’m being honest.
Overall, I did like a lot of the nostalgic feelings this stirred up in me, but I think the story could’ve been a lot stronger.
For a debut, I think it’s an impressive start, I just hope we can get some more substance in the next one!
Huge thank you to Allen & Unwin for the ARC copy.
From reading the blurb, you assume that you’ll spend a lot of time hearing from adult Teresa and see interactions between her and adult Lacey (her ex childhood friend turned influencer) - instead, about 80% of the book is just Teresa reliving her childhood friendship with Lacey.
Don’t get me wrong; as someone who also grew up in Australia during the late 90s-mid 2010’s- this was incredibly nostalgic and had so many elements of what it meant to be a kid during this time.
From marbles, to Bloody Mary, tMSN and Dolly magazine - it follows the ups and downs of female friendship; however Lacey is quite the bully and some of the things she does are downright disturbing. Teresa is no better; she is a silent observer to this behaviour - always too shy to speak up.
More than halfway through the book, we get to a point where the direction suddenly pivots back to adult Teresa, but it’s almost as if the author wasn’t quite sure what to do once she got back to her.
The story doesn’t really go anywhere from there, the ending is a bit dissatisfying if I’m being honest.
Overall, I did like a lot of the nostalgic feelings this stirred up in me, but I think the story could’ve been a lot stronger.
For a debut, I think it’s an impressive start, I just hope we can get some more substance in the next one!
Huge thank you to Allen & Unwin for the ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I judged The Followers by its cover. The cover and title suggest a satirical look at social media and the duplicity of it. Really, it is 90% about the characters' childhoods and teenage years, and how Lacey, the Instagram influencer at the centre of it all, came to be her.
If I had gone into this novel with a different idea, ready for a look at growing up in early 2000s Brisbane, with all the Dolly sealed sections, personalised keychains, MSN messenger and Nutbush dances that entailed, I am sure I would have enjoyed it more.
The most enticing parts of the novel were the looks at Lacey's social media in the current day. The incisive satire into influencer culture was really well-done and I found myself wanting more. These snippets were unfortunately few and far between, and failed to provide a good anchor for the rest of the story. It loses steam significantly after the characters are involved in a significant incident, the different 'followers' diverging paths and Lacey being sidelined.
This was an easy, quick read. I did find myself resonating and enjoying some of the particular throwbacks to my own time growing up in Australia in the 2000s, but this wasn't quite enough to make the book memorable.
Unfortunately, I judged The Followers by its cover. The cover and title suggest a satirical look at social media and the duplicity of it. Really, it is 90% about the characters' childhoods and teenage years, and how Lacey, the Instagram influencer at the centre of it all, came to be her.
If I had gone into this novel with a different idea, ready for a look at growing up in early 2000s Brisbane, with all the Dolly sealed sections, personalised keychains, MSN messenger and Nutbush dances that entailed, I am sure I would have enjoyed it more.
The most enticing parts of the novel were the looks at Lacey's social media in the current day. The incisive satire into influencer culture was really well-done and I found myself wanting more. These snippets were unfortunately few and far between, and failed to provide a good anchor for the rest of the story. It loses steam significantly after the characters are involved in a significant incident, the different 'followers' diverging paths and Lacey being sidelined.
This was an easy, quick read. I did find myself resonating and enjoying some of the particular throwbacks to my own time growing up in Australia in the 2000s, but this wasn't quite enough to make the book memorable.
July 10, 2026
Listened to on audio. Actual rating of 3.5 stars.
I quite enjoyed this book. I found the FMC's infatuation with such a horrible friend to be both amusing and disturbing - Not only that her child self was so desperate for validation from this person, but that her adult self (in spite of knowing better) still nurtured an ongoing fixation with her.
This book explores (through a satirical lense) staying in touch with your past via the inventions of our wonderful, modern world - You guessed it! Social media stalking!
Largely, this book is a coming of age story, featuring a group of girls who are trying to figure out who they are as individuals, while they are under the thrall of their one (un)chosen leader.
Some of us are able to detach from the negative influences we have been exposed to as young people, and others find themselves somehow drawn to keeping an eye on how those influences have changed over the years. Can you think of anyone from your past who you might have checked in on using social media? I know I have! The block button is your best friend, you know!
A very fun debut. I am sure there will be more fun things to come for this talented, Aussie author.
I quite enjoyed this book. I found the FMC's infatuation with such a horrible friend to be both amusing and disturbing - Not only that her child self was so desperate for validation from this person, but that her adult self (in spite of knowing better) still nurtured an ongoing fixation with her.
This book explores (through a satirical lense) staying in touch with your past via the inventions of our wonderful, modern world - You guessed it! Social media stalking!
Largely, this book is a coming of age story, featuring a group of girls who are trying to figure out who they are as individuals, while they are under the thrall of their one (un)chosen leader.
Some of us are able to detach from the negative influences we have been exposed to as young people, and others find themselves somehow drawn to keeping an eye on how those influences have changed over the years. Can you think of anyone from your past who you might have checked in on using social media? I know I have! The block button is your best friend, you know!
A very fun debut. I am sure there will be more fun things to come for this talented, Aussie author.
August 1, 2026
This was a very interesting and somewhat relatable book.
Teresa picks up an influencers “guided journal” for self-confidence and love, but gets stuck in the past when she grew up with said influencer.
I did enjoy the story and her recount of the past, with snippets of interactions. Through the book you see what growing up in Australian schooling is like, especially for young girls. Teresa falls in with the “popular girls” and our influencer was the “queen bee”
It makes your query if the people you see online today are as friendly and supportive as they come across on your screen. In this story, our influencer certainly has her flaws. Through all the characters did, including Teresa
Through this story was good, I don’t feel like it was what I expected to read from the blurb description, I thought it would spend more time focused on the current timeline with flashbacks rather than a chronological play by play of their friendship through the years, with the last two chapters being the “current” timeline.
Teresa picks up an influencers “guided journal” for self-confidence and love, but gets stuck in the past when she grew up with said influencer.
I did enjoy the story and her recount of the past, with snippets of interactions. Through the book you see what growing up in Australian schooling is like, especially for young girls. Teresa falls in with the “popular girls” and our influencer was the “queen bee”
It makes your query if the people you see online today are as friendly and supportive as they come across on your screen. In this story, our influencer certainly has her flaws. Through all the characters did, including Teresa
Through this story was good, I don’t feel like it was what I expected to read from the blurb description, I thought it would spend more time focused on the current timeline with flashbacks rather than a chronological play by play of their friendship through the years, with the last two chapters being the “current” timeline.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
DNF - 54%
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book, but unfortunately I’ve decided to DNF it at 54%.
The writing itself was engaging, and I can absolutely appreciate what the author was trying to achieve with this story. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the type of book I was expecting.
The bullying and treatment of the girls throughout the story hit much closer to home than I anticipated. While these themes don’t necessarily trigger me, they brought back memories of my own traumatic childhood and experiences with bullying at school. Reading those scenes left me feeling deeply upset and disheartened that this kind of behaviour exists, and continues to exist, in today’s society. It became too emotionally heavy for me to continue.
This is entirely a personal reading experience rather than a reflection of the quality of the book. I can understand why others may connect with and appreciate the story, but sadly it just wasn’t the right book for me.
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book, but unfortunately I’ve decided to DNF it at 54%.
The writing itself was engaging, and I can absolutely appreciate what the author was trying to achieve with this story. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the type of book I was expecting.
The bullying and treatment of the girls throughout the story hit much closer to home than I anticipated. While these themes don’t necessarily trigger me, they brought back memories of my own traumatic childhood and experiences with bullying at school. Reading those scenes left me feeling deeply upset and disheartened that this kind of behaviour exists, and continues to exist, in today’s society. It became too emotionally heavy for me to continue.
This is entirely a personal reading experience rather than a reflection of the quality of the book. I can understand why others may connect with and appreciate the story, but sadly it just wasn’t the right book for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The cover and title of The Followers by Maree Spratt drew me to this book as a millennial who’s been chronically online for over half her life, but this book was completely not what I expected (in the best way).
Nostalgic, humorous, and impossible to put down at times, I found myself on the edge of my seat several times throughout the book. What initially seemed like a book about influencers and social media quickly became something far deeper.
The characters felt flawed, human, and incredibly real.
Weeks later, I still find myself thinking about Lacey and this story. And the title is genius.
As a millennial, I also loved all the memories of life in the early 2000s that this book brought flooding back. I can’t wait to read more from Maree Spratt.
The cover and title of The Followers by Maree Spratt drew me to this book as a millennial who’s been chronically online for over half her life, but this book was completely not what I expected (in the best way).
Nostalgic, humorous, and impossible to put down at times, I found myself on the edge of my seat several times throughout the book. What initially seemed like a book about influencers and social media quickly became something far deeper.
The characters felt flawed, human, and incredibly real.
Weeks later, I still find myself thinking about Lacey and this story. And the title is genius.
As a millennial, I also loved all the memories of life in the early 2000s that this book brought flooding back. I can’t wait to read more from Maree Spratt.
September 4, 2026
Lacey is basically a prepubescent Regina George - and Teresa is one of her devoted followers.
This coming-of-age novel is packed with millennial nostalgia (and plenty of cringe), following Teresa as she navigates the complicated world of girlhood under Lacey’s influence.
Twenty years later, Teresa is still following Lacey - only now it’s online, as Lacey documents her life as an influencer. Looking back, Teresa begins to contemplate just how much the people who influence us when we’re young can shape who we become as adults.
More than anything, this reminded me just how HARD it is to be a young girl. The friendships, the power dynamics, the desperate need to belong, and all those tiny moments that somehow stick with you decades later.
I enjoyed the ride - and the millennial nostalgia hit particularly well. The marbles 😂 I remember they had to be banned at my primary school!
This coming-of-age novel is packed with millennial nostalgia (and plenty of cringe), following Teresa as she navigates the complicated world of girlhood under Lacey’s influence.
Twenty years later, Teresa is still following Lacey - only now it’s online, as Lacey documents her life as an influencer. Looking back, Teresa begins to contemplate just how much the people who influence us when we’re young can shape who we become as adults.
More than anything, this reminded me just how HARD it is to be a young girl. The friendships, the power dynamics, the desperate need to belong, and all those tiny moments that somehow stick with you decades later.
I enjoyed the ride - and the millennial nostalgia hit particularly well. The marbles 😂 I remember they had to be banned at my primary school!
June 24, 2026
Wow… this one was both nostalgic and incredibly thought provoking!
It had me spiralling back to my own childhood, bringing up feelings of sadness, happiness, and so many emotions in between. It really highlights how much our childhood experiences shape who we become - for better or worse.
It also explores so many universal experiences, from peer pressure and body image to class, social status, and the pressure of trying to fit in.
I really enjoyed the balance between the present day and the past, and how much focus was placed on the events that shaped both Teresa and Lacey. There were moments that were incredibly confronting and uncomfortable to read, but that’s exactly what made this story so impactful. It encourages you to sit with those feelings and reflect on your own childhood - the friendships that made you question whether they were ever truly your friends, and all the other complicated experiences that come with growing up.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and just how reflective it made me. It’s the kind of story that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
It had me spiralling back to my own childhood, bringing up feelings of sadness, happiness, and so many emotions in between. It really highlights how much our childhood experiences shape who we become - for better or worse.
It also explores so many universal experiences, from peer pressure and body image to class, social status, and the pressure of trying to fit in.
I really enjoyed the balance between the present day and the past, and how much focus was placed on the events that shaped both Teresa and Lacey. There were moments that were incredibly confronting and uncomfortable to read, but that’s exactly what made this story so impactful. It encourages you to sit with those feelings and reflect on your own childhood - the friendships that made you question whether they were ever truly your friends, and all the other complicated experiences that come with growing up.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and just how reflective it made me. It’s the kind of story that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
August 21, 2026
This was a time capsule, a not unwelcome look back to growing up in South East Queensland in the early 2000s.
The blurb doesn’t do the book justice. I thought I was signing up for an exploration of parasocial relationships. I’ve read a few of those recently (Sophie, Standing There & The Obsessed) and thought this one sounded more fun and less heavy. Truly, it’s not about that at all. Instead it is an uncomfortable look into the inner-world of preteen girls and how ugly that world can be. I enjoyed that more, the marketing could have pitched it for what it is and ridden off the current hype around Girls Girl. It was more caustic and raw then Girls Girl. It invoked a morbid curiosity and inability to look away.
All around a really enjoyable debut.
The blurb doesn’t do the book justice. I thought I was signing up for an exploration of parasocial relationships. I’ve read a few of those recently (Sophie, Standing There & The Obsessed) and thought this one sounded more fun and less heavy. Truly, it’s not about that at all. Instead it is an uncomfortable look into the inner-world of preteen girls and how ugly that world can be. I enjoyed that more, the marketing could have pitched it for what it is and ridden off the current hype around Girls Girl. It was more caustic and raw then Girls Girl. It invoked a morbid curiosity and inability to look away.
All around a really enjoyable debut.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book captures Australian childhood in the early 2000s. From the games that were popular, to exactly what our houses were like- not a detail was missed.
This story captures children navigating relationships which get more complicated as they grow up- navigating friendship problems, birthdays, and how group dynamics change over time.
This book is hard to put down as you explore each stage of Lacey and Therese’s friendship. It’s a well written, and feels easy to read (and hard to put down!). If you haven’t read something in a while or are looking for a book club, this relatable read is a great place to start!
This story captures children navigating relationships which get more complicated as they grow up- navigating friendship problems, birthdays, and how group dynamics change over time.
This book is hard to put down as you explore each stage of Lacey and Therese’s friendship. It’s a well written, and feels easy to read (and hard to put down!). If you haven’t read something in a while or are looking for a book club, this relatable read is a great place to start!
July 27, 2026
I feel like the blurb on the back cover is an accident and meant for an entirely different book. And I can't remember the last time a cover was so misleading unsuited to the contents.
I thought I was about to read a somewhat fun and light book about a woman's obsession/rivalry with an I influencer- instead I'm reading about the playground/social I securities of a child. Did I really just spend 34 pages hearing about the dull intricacies of ten year olds playing marbles in excruciating detail?
I made it to about 75 pages but it doesn't improve. It's a rather sombre and tedious insight into a tween's social anxieties which...no thanks.
I thought I was about to read a somewhat fun and light book about a woman's obsession/rivalry with an I influencer- instead I'm reading about the playground/social I securities of a child. Did I really just spend 34 pages hearing about the dull intricacies of ten year olds playing marbles in excruciating detail?
I made it to about 75 pages but it doesn't improve. It's a rather sombre and tedious insight into a tween's social anxieties which...no thanks.
September 8, 2026
The followers is about a girl who is currently famous as an influencer and what it was really like being in her friend group in high school. I usually don’t like anything YA or anything where I’m in the minds of a younger protagonist but I actually loved this. I found it so relatable in the best way and refreshing. It was funny, it was interesting and was a good entertaining read. I liked the FMC who was very young throughout the majority of the book but it wasn’t in an annoying juvenile way, I mean they did have petty issues and kid drama but it wasn’t written in a way that it was digestible. I really enjoyed myself even though after the first few chapters I was nervous I wouldn’t
July 3, 2026
This is a book about growing up alongside the internet and mobile phones. And it's a book about various sorts of privilege and who gets to have it. And it's a book about so many things.
It is told by Teresa, who drip feeds the reader information about her current life, while telling the story of The Group - their dysfunctional childhood clique, and what they got up to. There is a feeling of unease, both because of Teresa's unease with herself and people, and just the vibe that this could blossom into horror at any time. Or maybe that adolescence is horror?
Anyway, I didn't know anything beyond the blurb going in, which is the way I like it. I'm avoiding spoilers in this review - although it's not really a book about plot, it's a book about feelings and living and so much more. I couldn't see the ending until it was done, and it was sososo perfect.
Thanks to Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for the DRC in exchange for an honest review.
It is told by Teresa, who drip feeds the reader information about her current life, while telling the story of The Group - their dysfunctional childhood clique, and what they got up to. There is a feeling of unease, both because of Teresa's unease with herself and people, and just the vibe that this could blossom into horror at any time. Or maybe that adolescence is horror?
Anyway, I didn't know anything beyond the blurb going in, which is the way I like it. I'm avoiding spoilers in this review - although it's not really a book about plot, it's a book about feelings and living and so much more. I couldn't see the ending until it was done, and it was sososo perfect.
Thanks to Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for the DRC in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2026
This an authentically Australian coming of age story about childhood bullying essentially, which is told from the perspective of Teresa.
I think my expectations based on the cover and synopsis didn’t match the story I read. I thought there would be more adult reminiscing and how that childhood shaped adulthood, but we followed the girls through school.
The writing style was good, but overall I felt neutral about the characters. I wasn’t pulled in to the story to feel invested.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for a copy to honestly review.
I think my expectations based on the cover and synopsis didn’t match the story I read. I thought there would be more adult reminiscing and how that childhood shaped adulthood, but we followed the girls through school.
The writing style was good, but overall I felt neutral about the characters. I wasn’t pulled in to the story to feel invested.
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for a copy to honestly review.
July 23, 2026
Okay so the blurb isn’t completely accurate. The blurb makes it seem as though the story is going to be about adult Teresa and Lacey, and maybe 5% of it is. Rather this book is about Teresa growing up in primary and high school. It was a nostalgic read, especially for us Aussies, which I liked and actually I think going back in time made it a better read than if it was set present day, in that it just something a bit different.
August 13, 2026
Totally puzzled by the low rating on here because this book is SO well written and the story is so fleshed out. The most intricate details that if you aren’t paying attention you’ll miss.
Characters who are all so severely flawed but leave you wanting to know so much more about what’s going on inside their head.
Closed the book about 5 minutes ago and I’ve just been staring at the wall ever since. What a read 👏
Characters who are all so severely flawed but leave you wanting to know so much more about what’s going on inside their head.
Closed the book about 5 minutes ago and I’ve just been staring at the wall ever since. What a read 👏
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