What do you think?
People Like Us
Lola Sinley has always known how to play her part.
In the fall of her senior year, she is the golden girl of the small Southern town of Woodland—pretty, charming, dating the preacher’s son, and careful to keep the cracks in her life hidden beneath white dresses and practiced smiles. Everyone expects her future to be a marriage to the preachers son, blind obedience, and a life built on appearances.
But outcast August Brooks isn’t impressed by any of it.
Sarcastic, watchful, and content with being second place in her life, August is everything Lola has been taught to avoid. He sees through the performance she gives the world—and worse, he makes her want to be seen. What begins as reluctant afternoons studying soon becomes something far more honesty, desire, and the terrifying possibility of acceptance.
Ten years later, with an invitation to her high school reunion, Lola uncovers the relics of the girl she used to be. As old poetry, repressed memories, and unfinished stories rise to the surface, she is forced to confront the choices that shaped her life—and the boy who first taught her that love can cost you everything.
Set against the heat and hush of the rural South, this is a haunting coming-of-age story about acceptance, longing, class, and the versions of ourselves we leave behind.
In the fall of her senior year, she is the golden girl of the small Southern town of Woodland—pretty, charming, dating the preacher’s son, and careful to keep the cracks in her life hidden beneath white dresses and practiced smiles. Everyone expects her future to be a marriage to the preachers son, blind obedience, and a life built on appearances.
But outcast August Brooks isn’t impressed by any of it.
Sarcastic, watchful, and content with being second place in her life, August is everything Lola has been taught to avoid. He sees through the performance she gives the world—and worse, he makes her want to be seen. What begins as reluctant afternoons studying soon becomes something far more honesty, desire, and the terrifying possibility of acceptance.
Ten years later, with an invitation to her high school reunion, Lola uncovers the relics of the girl she used to be. As old poetry, repressed memories, and unfinished stories rise to the surface, she is forced to confront the choices that shaped her life—and the boy who first taught her that love can cost you everything.
Set against the heat and hush of the rural South, this is a haunting coming-of-age story about acceptance, longing, class, and the versions of ourselves we leave behind.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Could not put it down! Iam terrible at writing reviews, but this book was amazing! Now I am on the edge of my seat waiting on the 2nd book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC and the opportunity to read and leave an honest review!
On the surface is a coming-of-age story about youth, first love, and self-discovery, but beneath it all runs an unsettling current of unease that quietly lingers from beginning to end. Told through a dual timeline, the story primarily follows Lola as she navigates her senior year of high school, her relationships, and her growing sense of self. While much of the narrative revolves around familiar teenage drama, Blake carefully plants subtle interactions and seemingly insignificant details that are easy to overlook on a first read. In hindsight, those moments reveal themselves to be deliberate, building toward a twist that completely reframes the story.
Beyond the romance and interpersonal drama, the story explores the realities of growing up in a small Southern town. It examines religious expectations, rigid social hierarchies, class differences, and the ways social struggles (including mental health) can be overlooked or misunderstood within close-knit communities. These themes give the story a depth that extends well beyond a typical coming-of-age novel.
One aspect that stood out to me was how emotionally mature many of the conversations between the teenage characters felt. At times, they seemed wiser than I remember being at eighteen. Then again, reflecting on my own high school years reminded me that every problem felt enormous at the time. When your world is still small, every friendship, heartbreak, and conflict can feel life-defining. I think Blake captures that emotional intensity well, which is why I believe readers may connect with this story more if they approach it with a New Adult mindset. The heightened emotions and imperfect decisions felt authentic for characters still learning who they are.
The pacing is slower than I typically prefer, with a stronger emphasis on introspection, relationships, and emotional growth than on constant plot progression. While that won't work for every reader, it allows the characters and their struggles to develop naturally, making the emotional payoff more effective.
The ending is what ultimately elevated the story for me. Much of Lola's day-to-day drama serves as a clever red herring, encouraging readers to question both the reliability of the narration and the significance of the subtle details scattered throughout the book. It's the kind of twist that makes you want to revisit earlier chapters to see what was hiding in plain sight.
Overall, I remained invested until the very end and am looking forward to the next installment. My only wish is that the eerie atmosphere hinted at throughout the book had been been woven more consistently into the story. That lingering sense of unease in the final chapters was incredibly effective, and I think leaning into it earlier would have made the ending even more haunting.
On the surface is a coming-of-age story about youth, first love, and self-discovery, but beneath it all runs an unsettling current of unease that quietly lingers from beginning to end. Told through a dual timeline, the story primarily follows Lola as she navigates her senior year of high school, her relationships, and her growing sense of self. While much of the narrative revolves around familiar teenage drama, Blake carefully plants subtle interactions and seemingly insignificant details that are easy to overlook on a first read. In hindsight, those moments reveal themselves to be deliberate, building toward a twist that completely reframes the story.
Beyond the romance and interpersonal drama, the story explores the realities of growing up in a small Southern town. It examines religious expectations, rigid social hierarchies, class differences, and the ways social struggles (including mental health) can be overlooked or misunderstood within close-knit communities. These themes give the story a depth that extends well beyond a typical coming-of-age novel.
One aspect that stood out to me was how emotionally mature many of the conversations between the teenage characters felt. At times, they seemed wiser than I remember being at eighteen. Then again, reflecting on my own high school years reminded me that every problem felt enormous at the time. When your world is still small, every friendship, heartbreak, and conflict can feel life-defining. I think Blake captures that emotional intensity well, which is why I believe readers may connect with this story more if they approach it with a New Adult mindset. The heightened emotions and imperfect decisions felt authentic for characters still learning who they are.
The pacing is slower than I typically prefer, with a stronger emphasis on introspection, relationships, and emotional growth than on constant plot progression. While that won't work for every reader, it allows the characters and their struggles to develop naturally, making the emotional payoff more effective.
The ending is what ultimately elevated the story for me. Much of Lola's day-to-day drama serves as a clever red herring, encouraging readers to question both the reliability of the narration and the significance of the subtle details scattered throughout the book. It's the kind of twist that makes you want to revisit earlier chapters to see what was hiding in plain sight.
Overall, I remained invested until the very end and am looking forward to the next installment. My only wish is that the eerie atmosphere hinted at throughout the book had been been woven more consistently into the story. That lingering sense of unease in the final chapters was incredibly effective, and I think leaning into it earlier would have made the ending even more haunting.
Review of advance copy
Trying to write a review about this is going to be hard, because I was DOWN BAD for this MMC so everything else feels a bit of a blur.
Saying this feels wrong because he’s a high school kid, probably half my age so we won’t say anymore on that.
I applied for this arc and I am so grateful to have been part of the street team for Savannah Blake’s debut novel.
Without giving any spoilers, the character arc of August Brooks going from this shy and innocent mmc to an addictive, headstrong, intelligent (not that he wasn’t in the beginning but it really shows by the end of the book) young person is what I loved most about this book.
The things that Lola didn’t realise he was doing early on in the friendship that shows how obsessed with her he is…I wish I had boys like that in my high school.
I was addicted to every aspect of this story. The ONLY reason I have given 4 instead of 5 stars, is because I didn’t feel it was a true ‘Southern Gothic’. Yes there are some thriller aspects, however I feel it should be classed more as a ‘small town southern romance’ The religious aspects were very detailed, immersive and give true Deep South Carolina church. But I went into this thinking there were paranormal or necromancer-gothic vibes and I didn’t get that (that’s just my opinion).
However, I need to remind myself that this is book one and there is more to come. The series is called ‘Small Town Horrors Book 1) so whether Savvy pulls out the gothic edge in the next instalment, we shall see.
Oh and leaving them to end like that?! Nope. Why did you do that to me Savannah?!
GIVE ME BOOK 2 NOW!
4⭐️
Religious rebellions 💒
Murder/disapperance 💀
Virgin& OCD mmc ❤️
Popular girl x shy punk
Opposites attract 💕
Secret relationship 🤐
Saying this feels wrong because he’s a high school kid, probably half my age so we won’t say anymore on that.
I applied for this arc and I am so grateful to have been part of the street team for Savannah Blake’s debut novel.
Without giving any spoilers, the character arc of August Brooks going from this shy and innocent mmc to an addictive, headstrong, intelligent (not that he wasn’t in the beginning but it really shows by the end of the book) young person is what I loved most about this book.
The things that Lola didn’t realise he was doing early on in the friendship that shows how obsessed with her he is…I wish I had boys like that in my high school.
I was addicted to every aspect of this story. The ONLY reason I have given 4 instead of 5 stars, is because I didn’t feel it was a true ‘Southern Gothic’. Yes there are some thriller aspects, however I feel it should be classed more as a ‘small town southern romance’ The religious aspects were very detailed, immersive and give true Deep South Carolina church. But I went into this thinking there were paranormal or necromancer-gothic vibes and I didn’t get that (that’s just my opinion).
However, I need to remind myself that this is book one and there is more to come. The series is called ‘Small Town Horrors Book 1) so whether Savvy pulls out the gothic edge in the next instalment, we shall see.
Oh and leaving them to end like that?! Nope. Why did you do that to me Savannah?!
GIVE ME BOOK 2 NOW!
4⭐️
Religious rebellions 💒
Murder/disapperance 💀
Virgin& OCD mmc ❤️
Popular girl x shy punk
Opposites attract 💕
Secret relationship 🤐
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was genuinely one of the best books I have ever read. No, scratch that. This book is light years beyond everything. I’ll never be able to sing enough praise to do it justice. Every character was so beautifully flawed it felt real. I had visceral reactions. I had to put it down so many times because I needed to just sit with what I read.
It’s gorgeously written from the main character, Lola’s pov in two different timelines: the main story following her and August Brooks’ illicit affair, and her happily ever after where she is married with a son miles and miles away from her small town where religion is a noose and your ability to fit in is the box under your feet.
This book is Mahogany Apple by Bath and Body Works written out on a page. It’s flannels, off-white lace, Doc Martins and 2012 Tumblr’s aesthetic being pictures of bruises on pale skin.
Woodland is mildew, and no matter how much you scrub- you can’t get the smell out.
Lola’s views on intimacy made me sick to my stomach. The town's views on intimacy and purity while being filled to the brim with rot were so well written. It was a tasteful dissection of modern, southern Christianity. It never felt mocking or disrespectful. It was honest.
Sexuality is also handled so well. They’re teenagers, everyone does it. Some for performance, some for acceptance and some for the desperate need to feel like someone actually cares that they’re there.
It’s gorgeously written from the main character, Lola’s pov in two different timelines: the main story following her and August Brooks’ illicit affair, and her happily ever after where she is married with a son miles and miles away from her small town where religion is a noose and your ability to fit in is the box under your feet.
This book is Mahogany Apple by Bath and Body Works written out on a page. It’s flannels, off-white lace, Doc Martins and 2012 Tumblr’s aesthetic being pictures of bruises on pale skin.
Woodland is mildew, and no matter how much you scrub- you can’t get the smell out.
Lola’s views on intimacy made me sick to my stomach. The town's views on intimacy and purity while being filled to the brim with rot were so well written. It was a tasteful dissection of modern, southern Christianity. It never felt mocking or disrespectful. It was honest.
Sexuality is also handled so well. They’re teenagers, everyone does it. Some for performance, some for acceptance and some for the desperate need to feel like someone actually cares that they’re there.
September 16, 2026
People Like Us” by @savannahblake.books is her debut novel. I was blown away by how amazing the writing was. It felt like I was in a movie, as everything unfolded before my eyes. The world-building was incredible. The imagery and portrayal of small-town life felt authentic, particularly in a community with strong expectations regarding the church. The story and the drama only intensified with each chapter, and I am so ready to read book 2 because it leaves us wanting more. Oh, be sure to read the TRIGGER WARNINGS because some dark themes could be triggering for some folks.
This coming-of-age story follows Lola’s story through her eyes. She is relatable, navigating everyday life, getting ready to leave for college, first love, and self-discovery. Of course, she faces hardships with her friends and those around her. This main focus was her affair with August, who started as shy and nervous and eventually grew possessive and protective of her. Their relationship was real and captivating. I was there for it. Furthermore, the portrayal of misfits, Barbies, and Kens felt authentic because such social groups are common among young people. These groups reflect the broader social hierarchy, which often includes categories such as jocks and nerds.
Overall, everything about this book was perfect. I am truly happy to have read it. It has a little piece of my heart. I am ready to see what happens next.
This coming-of-age story follows Lola’s story through her eyes. She is relatable, navigating everyday life, getting ready to leave for college, first love, and self-discovery. Of course, she faces hardships with her friends and those around her. This main focus was her affair with August, who started as shy and nervous and eventually grew possessive and protective of her. Their relationship was real and captivating. I was there for it. Furthermore, the portrayal of misfits, Barbies, and Kens felt authentic because such social groups are common among young people. These groups reflect the broader social hierarchy, which often includes categories such as jocks and nerds.
Overall, everything about this book was perfect. I am truly happy to have read it. It has a little piece of my heart. I am ready to see what happens next.
August 25, 2026
HUGE THANK YOU to the author for the ARC copy of this book!!
Literally gnawing on my arm to get through it. Okay, not really but it was good. It was SO GOOD.
Honestly, as a character driven reader I should have put this book down, I really should have because there is something wrong with all of the characters but the problem is that I can see myself in all of them. I get why they roll over and take it and I get why they step out of line. They’re flawed and they’re mildly insane but they are HUMAN and they’re teenagers. And I love them.
There’s a major element of religious rebellion in the book, so keep an eye out if that bothers you, but honestly? I also get that sometimes.
It’s a romance between a popular girl and a nerdy guy, although hypothetically a love triangle, you hate the jock boyfriend for her from the start so…. You see the expectations pressed onto the “Barbie” and the way that the “Misfits” react to her, but you’re also seeing the way the expectations go both ways.
Also you get to see misfits insult the popular kids and if that doesn’t soothe something in my soul I’ll actually gnaw on my arm. Kidding. Sort of. Who knows? This book has me all sorts of twisted up and I love it.
I absolutely can not handle another book by this author and yet I will be sitting here drooling when I find out she has another coming out.
Literally gnawing on my arm to get through it. Okay, not really but it was good. It was SO GOOD.
Honestly, as a character driven reader I should have put this book down, I really should have because there is something wrong with all of the characters but the problem is that I can see myself in all of them. I get why they roll over and take it and I get why they step out of line. They’re flawed and they’re mildly insane but they are HUMAN and they’re teenagers. And I love them.
There’s a major element of religious rebellion in the book, so keep an eye out if that bothers you, but honestly? I also get that sometimes.
It’s a romance between a popular girl and a nerdy guy, although hypothetically a love triangle, you hate the jock boyfriend for her from the start so…. You see the expectations pressed onto the “Barbie” and the way that the “Misfits” react to her, but you’re also seeing the way the expectations go both ways.
Also you get to see misfits insult the popular kids and if that doesn’t soothe something in my soul I’ll actually gnaw on my arm. Kidding. Sort of. Who knows? This book has me all sorts of twisted up and I love it.
I absolutely can not handle another book by this author and yet I will be sitting here drooling when I find out she has another coming out.
August 24, 2026
People Like Us by Savannah Blake left me speechless! This book is an incredible debut novel and an amazing start to phenomenal series. I was hooked right from the get go and struggled to put it down, I just couldn’t stop reading!
I fell head over heels in love with the MMC August Brooks, his kind of shy, nervous disposition at the beginning is what drew me in but then seeing his character develop through out the book was one of my favourite parts of this story.
I loved how every character had their own flaws which made them feel very real and i think that’s one of the aspects that really elevated this to a 5 star book for me. I also want to mention the mental health representation is this book was portrayed very well and at times found myself tearing up.
The world building was incredible, everything was incredible descriptive and really painted that eerie small town southern vibe in my head and I felt as tho I was watching a movie with how well everything was described.
The ending of this book left me staring at a wall questioning everything I had previously read and that cliffhanger! I’m going to need book 2 immediately as I need to know what happenes next with Lola and August as my little heart hurts for them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I fell head over heels in love with the MMC August Brooks, his kind of shy, nervous disposition at the beginning is what drew me in but then seeing his character develop through out the book was one of my favourite parts of this story.
I loved how every character had their own flaws which made them feel very real and i think that’s one of the aspects that really elevated this to a 5 star book for me. I also want to mention the mental health representation is this book was portrayed very well and at times found myself tearing up.
The world building was incredible, everything was incredible descriptive and really painted that eerie small town southern vibe in my head and I felt as tho I was watching a movie with how well everything was described.
The ending of this book left me staring at a wall questioning everything I had previously read and that cliffhanger! I’m going to need book 2 immediately as I need to know what happenes next with Lola and August as my little heart hurts for them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m speechless… I’m left with so many questions, and my heart is battered and torn into a million pieces at how Lola and August left things right before graduation. I hate it! 😭 I don’t want to leave a crumb of spoilers to this AMAZING book, but fuck! I’m literally crying as I’m typing this out! This book is MY FAVORITE read of the month so far! As much as I LOVED Lola and August, the misfits, the Barbies and the Ken’s helped make this book as well. The tension between Sin and August had me kicking my feet and giggling like a school girl, and the scenes were great! We love a man that loves to pleasure and eat 😍 Apart from the spice, the characters reminded me of being a teenager and having to deal with issues of my own that I would carry silently and kept it all buried from the outside world while presenting friends and family with a version of me I thought they’d accept. It’s a cruel world out there and this book captures this for the characters and the rawness of what people actually go through, and I appreciate that so much. I hope to be able to continue to read this series and I know I will love it as much as I did this first novel.
August 28, 2026
OH MY GOD I finished this in two days and it’s one of my top reads this year! Literally EVERYTHING in this book moved me from the writing to Lola and August’s love story to the atmosphere to the mystery like it was gag after gag after gag. I really appreciated how layered and complex the storyline and characters were. This was not at all a typical trope-filled romance but instead an exploration on the ways we perform for others (ESPECIALLY WOMEN ESPECIALLY in a religious setting) and what happens behind closed doors with the people you can be honest with. If you aren’t honest with the one you love, they’re not the one you love. But I am honest in saying that this was one of the best written love stories, cast of characters, and plots I’ve read in a long time. I cannot WAIT for the next book and the rest of the series, I will be gnawing at the bars of my enclosure until then. See you later.
Alternatively: The best thing a woman can do is be an unreliable narrator and constantly be at odds with herself, and the best thing a man can do is love and yearn for her irrevocably. August and Lola you will ALWAYS be famous.
Alternatively: The best thing a woman can do is be an unreliable narrator and constantly be at odds with herself, and the best thing a man can do is love and yearn for her irrevocably. August and Lola you will ALWAYS be famous.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"You haunt me still."
I need the essence of August Brooks bottled and injected directly into my bloodstream, STAT.
Thank you to Savannah Blake for providing me with an ARC of People Like Us in exchange for an honest review.
People Like Us is a compelling Southern Gothic romance set against the backdrop of a small town steeped in religious expectations, rebellion and long-buried secrets. The mystery was so cleverly woven that you could almost be forgiven for not even realising it was unfolding. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, it became abundantly clear that I absolutely did not. That ending had me frantically flipping back through earlier chapters, searching for every clue I'd missed.
It's safe to say my flabbers have been entirely gasted, and I will not know peace until book two is in my grubby little hands.
Read if you love:
🥀 Southern Gothic
🧎♂️ Men who worship
⛪ Religious rebellion
🖤 Secret relationships
🏚️ Small-town settings
⏳️ Dual timelines
Please be mindful of your triggers and check the author's content warnings before reading.
I need the essence of August Brooks bottled and injected directly into my bloodstream, STAT.
Thank you to Savannah Blake for providing me with an ARC of People Like Us in exchange for an honest review.
People Like Us is a compelling Southern Gothic romance set against the backdrop of a small town steeped in religious expectations, rebellion and long-buried secrets. The mystery was so cleverly woven that you could almost be forgiven for not even realising it was unfolding. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, it became abundantly clear that I absolutely did not. That ending had me frantically flipping back through earlier chapters, searching for every clue I'd missed.
It's safe to say my flabbers have been entirely gasted, and I will not know peace until book two is in my grubby little hands.
Read if you love:
🥀 Southern Gothic
🧎♂️ Men who worship
⛪ Religious rebellion
🖤 Secret relationships
🏚️ Small-town settings
⏳️ Dual timelines
Please be mindful of your triggers and check the author's content warnings before reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is Savannah Blake’s debut novel and oh my goodness did she hit an absolute home run! I was lucky to receive an ARC of this book and I absolutely devoured it. Her writing is fast paced, the banter was witty and I found myself completely immersed in the story. This was my first popular girl x nerdy boy trope and I’m definitely hooked. Watching Lola and August’s love story unfold I felt like I was right there with them, for every stolen kiss, hidden glance and secret finger lock. I was sitting in my living room rooting for them.
I do want to make a small disclaimer, this book does include the topic of religion. I thought the author did a great job of depicting her character’s relationship with their faith. This book does not preach that religion is the end all be all, nor does it condemn it. She shows the honest and raw views on it through the eyes of her characters that are living in a rural southern town.
And now let’s talking about that ending. Whew! That ending! Another reviewer wrote that her “flabbers were entirely gasted” and I could not agree more! That jaw dropping, audible gasp of an ending had me immediately needing more… which thankfully, will happen because this was book 1 of the series!
I do want to make a small disclaimer, this book does include the topic of religion. I thought the author did a great job of depicting her character’s relationship with their faith. This book does not preach that religion is the end all be all, nor does it condemn it. She shows the honest and raw views on it through the eyes of her characters that are living in a rural southern town.
And now let’s talking about that ending. Whew! That ending! Another reviewer wrote that her “flabbers were entirely gasted” and I could not agree more! That jaw dropping, audible gasp of an ending had me immediately needing more… which thankfully, will happen because this was book 1 of the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
This is Savannah Blake’s debut novel and I cannot wait for more! This book shook me! It was so good that when I finished I just sat in silence for a while. If you grew up in one of the backgrounds depicted in this book I feel they are going to deeply resonate with you. I know they did with me. If you like books about being accepted and class difference this is the book for you.
First is Lola who the book mostly revolves around. It follows her through her coming of age story and all the drama that is involved in having relationships with both adults and her peers. She’s coming into who she really is and what she wants to be.
One of my favorite quotes: “ I want everything outside of this room to not matter. If we have to ignore each other in front of our friends just to make it easer, then that’s fine. I don’t really care about anyone else’s opinion on this . But I want this. I want to be the one who gets to see you like this when no one else does. I want you honest.” “ I want you honest, too,” I said, breathlessly.
This is Savannah Blake’s debut novel and I cannot wait for more! This book shook me! It was so good that when I finished I just sat in silence for a while. If you grew up in one of the backgrounds depicted in this book I feel they are going to deeply resonate with you. I know they did with me. If you like books about being accepted and class difference this is the book for you.
First is Lola who the book mostly revolves around. It follows her through her coming of age story and all the drama that is involved in having relationships with both adults and her peers. She’s coming into who she really is and what she wants to be.
One of my favorite quotes: “ I want everything outside of this room to not matter. If we have to ignore each other in front of our friends just to make it easer, then that’s fine. I don’t really care about anyone else’s opinion on this . But I want this. I want to be the one who gets to see you like this when no one else does. I want you honest.” “ I want you honest, too,” I said, breathlessly.
August 28, 2026
So grateful for the opportunity to be an ARC reader on this book. I had to take some time to process the book before leaving a review but wow! Savannah had me at “southern gothic”. I knew I was fixing to be OBSESSED...
And I was right lol. Down bad for a highschool boy has me feeling disgusting since I’m way too old for that & I have a senior 😂😭. But August had me hooked! I loved his character honestly & the banter was great. I usually struggle to read about teenagers since I’m older but with the dual timelines I honestly didn’t think much about it.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this book! I really enjoyed the writing style and the atmosphere that Savannah creates. The only reason I’m getting a four stars instead of five is because I was looking for more southern Gothic/spooky vibes I guess. I really liked the suspenseful/thriller aspect, but I was just expecting a little more. That did not take away from the story at all though. I’m very excited to continue reading the series!!
And I was right lol. Down bad for a highschool boy has me feeling disgusting since I’m way too old for that & I have a senior 😂😭. But August had me hooked! I loved his character honestly & the banter was great. I usually struggle to read about teenagers since I’m older but with the dual timelines I honestly didn’t think much about it.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this book! I really enjoyed the writing style and the atmosphere that Savannah creates. The only reason I’m getting a four stars instead of five is because I was looking for more southern Gothic/spooky vibes I guess. I really liked the suspenseful/thriller aspect, but I was just expecting a little more. That did not take away from the story at all though. I’m very excited to continue reading the series!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, thank you to Savannah Blake for sending me this amazing arc🖤
This is probably the hardest review I’ve ever wrote because there are no words that would do it justice. It genuinely left me speechless..🤣😭
People Like Us is a coming of age, southern gothic romance. & it is written BEAUTIFULLY!
Savannah did an amazing job writing these characters with all their flaws & imperfections. She also did an amazing job bringing up a lot of heavy topics that are often ignored or swept under the rug.
I LOVE me some messy characters and this book gave exactly that. There are so many people who can relate to the struggles these characters go through and the demons they face.
August and Lola had me giggling & kicking my feet, they had me crying my eyes out and everything in between. Their story is raw and heartbreaking.
When starting this book, I thought I knew exactly how it was going to end but I was SO wrong.😫 This is the kind of book that will keep you guessing PAST the end. I have so many questions, I absolutely cannot wait to see how this series plays out!🖤
This is probably the hardest review I’ve ever wrote because there are no words that would do it justice. It genuinely left me speechless..🤣😭
People Like Us is a coming of age, southern gothic romance. & it is written BEAUTIFULLY!
Savannah did an amazing job writing these characters with all their flaws & imperfections. She also did an amazing job bringing up a lot of heavy topics that are often ignored or swept under the rug.
I LOVE me some messy characters and this book gave exactly that. There are so many people who can relate to the struggles these characters go through and the demons they face.
August and Lola had me giggling & kicking my feet, they had me crying my eyes out and everything in between. Their story is raw and heartbreaking.
When starting this book, I thought I knew exactly how it was going to end but I was SO wrong.😫 This is the kind of book that will keep you guessing PAST the end. I have so many questions, I absolutely cannot wait to see how this series plays out!🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Did I read this in one sitting? Yes. And so will you, clear your schedule now, because People Like Us does not let you leave.
I genuinely regret reading this book… but ONLY because now I have to sit here and wait for the next one like some kind of animal. Savannah Blake, why would you do this to me.
Come for the vibes, stay for the full-blown existential crisis those last three pages will hand you. I closed the book and just stared at a wall for a while. Worth it.
A few things to set expectations: it's not actually Gothic, but it absolutely gives the vibes — crumbling-estate energy, that shadowy atmospheric pull, all of it. It's dark-ish without tipping into misery, with a really satisfying dose of mystery threaded through. And the spice? Oh, the spice scenes are HOT. Blake did not come to play.
Dark, mysterious, atmospheric, and steamy in all the right places. Immediately obsessed. Give me book two.
I genuinely regret reading this book… but ONLY because now I have to sit here and wait for the next one like some kind of animal. Savannah Blake, why would you do this to me.
Come for the vibes, stay for the full-blown existential crisis those last three pages will hand you. I closed the book and just stared at a wall for a while. Worth it.
A few things to set expectations: it's not actually Gothic, but it absolutely gives the vibes — crumbling-estate energy, that shadowy atmospheric pull, all of it. It's dark-ish without tipping into misery, with a really satisfying dose of mystery threaded through. And the spice? Oh, the spice scenes are HOT. Blake did not come to play.
Dark, mysterious, atmospheric, and steamy in all the right places. Immediately obsessed. Give me book two.
September 29, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Give me a minute, I’m currently staring at the wall dumbfounded.
This book encapsulates the atmosphere of a small Southern religious town so well. The characters are faced with self-discovery, drama, and all that high school brings to the table.
August instantly won me over. Lola is definitely a flawed character but I think that makes her more interesting and really plays well into the adolescence.
The characters are well written, the setting is descriptive and the emotions are written beautifully. I was very much invested in the story and if I didn’t have work I know I would’ve finished this book within hours.
THE ENDING. That 👏🏼 damn 👏🏼 ending 👏🏼 I’m still trying to find my flabbers that have been gasted. All I can say is the rest of the books on this series can’t come soon enough!
Give me a minute, I’m currently staring at the wall dumbfounded.
This book encapsulates the atmosphere of a small Southern religious town so well. The characters are faced with self-discovery, drama, and all that high school brings to the table.
August instantly won me over. Lola is definitely a flawed character but I think that makes her more interesting and really plays well into the adolescence.
The characters are well written, the setting is descriptive and the emotions are written beautifully. I was very much invested in the story and if I didn’t have work I know I would’ve finished this book within hours.
THE ENDING. That 👏🏼 damn 👏🏼 ending 👏🏼 I’m still trying to find my flabbers that have been gasted. All I can say is the rest of the books on this series can’t come soon enough!
Review of advance copy
This one will have you saying WTF at the end and want to start from the beginning to see what you might have missed. The ending is what made this a 3.75 to a 4 for me! I liked how I kept looking at the pages remaining thinking there is not enough time for answers. Then the rug just completely pulled out from under me in the best way!
Although this is in a high school setting you do forget they are teenagers. There is a lot going on in the background that I really hope gets explained more.
Can we please talk about August! This guy has me swooning throughout this book.
I need the continuation and I need it now!
Although this is in a high school setting you do forget they are teenagers. There is a lot going on in the background that I really hope gets explained more.
Can we please talk about August! This guy has me swooning throughout this book.
I need the continuation and I need it now!
August 26, 2026
ARC review - This was such a good book! Just what I needed to get me out of a reading slump to be honest. It was really unique and I know I haven’t read a book like it and I’ve read nearly 90 this year so far!
I loved the characters (I think about them often lol), the plot, the spice and the mystery that goes on throughout the book. August is an ultimate book boyfriend! I really liked the popular girl x outcast boy trope and I’ll be looking for this trope more. We also love when an MMC cares about the girl in the bedroom and if she enjoys it just as much as him.
The ending was a shocker and I have so many questions! Such a good way to get readers obsessed with a book!
I loved the characters (I think about them often lol), the plot, the spice and the mystery that goes on throughout the book. August is an ultimate book boyfriend! I really liked the popular girl x outcast boy trope and I’ll be looking for this trope more. We also love when an MMC cares about the girl in the bedroom and if she enjoys it just as much as him.
The ending was a shocker and I have so many questions! Such a good way to get readers obsessed with a book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, Savannah, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I just finished, and all I can say is WOW! I knew this checked a lot of my boxes:
Southern Gothic ✅️
Dual Timeline ✅️
Mental Health Rep ✅️
Throw in coming of age/ first love (August Brooks and those rings ❤️) self-discovery, and some many twists at the end, that I re-read the last chapter just in case I was wrong. Did any of that really happen? Is Shannon dead? What did Emily do? What will happen with August and Lola? I am excited about the next book.
Southern Gothic ✅️
Dual Timeline ✅️
Mental Health Rep ✅️
Throw in coming of age/ first love (August Brooks and those rings ❤️) self-discovery, and some many twists at the end, that I re-read the last chapter just in case I was wrong. Did any of that really happen? Is Shannon dead? What did Emily do? What will happen with August and Lola? I am excited about the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2026
I was so drawn into this book. With the religious background, and the small town energy that I grew up in, I was really able to feel the way Lola did in some aspects. There was a constant tension and secrets unknown that had me feeling so anxious but also so intrigued. The underlying mystery of it all was so subtle, but I could just feel the presence of it as I read. I thought I knew what was going on, until I absolutely did NOT. That ending had me in a tailspin. Book 2 is going to be craaazy!
August 13, 2026
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐.5
Thank you to the author for my ARC 📚🩵
This book kept me absolutely hooked from the first page.
The dynamic between Lola and August was incredible. I want you honest… IYKYK. 😉
The setting fit the dual timelines perfectly. I was always felt some description of foreboding in every chapter the closer I got towards the end. Like there was a mystery waiting to be solved… 👀
And that ending. Floored. Shocked. My jaw was on the floor and I need book 2 ASAP 👏🏼
Thank you to the author for my ARC 📚🩵
This book kept me absolutely hooked from the first page.
The dynamic between Lola and August was incredible. I want you honest… IYKYK. 😉
The setting fit the dual timelines perfectly. I was always felt some description of foreboding in every chapter the closer I got towards the end. Like there was a mystery waiting to be solved… 👀
And that ending. Floored. Shocked. My jaw was on the floor and I need book 2 ASAP 👏🏼
September 19, 2026
From the very start of this book I was hooked. I mean I read all 340 pages in a day! I just had to know what happened… and honesty, I still can’t tell you!
This is the kind of book that just keeps you guessing.
It is so cleverly written that all the way through I had no idea what was going on, but I knew it was something epic and I just had to find out.
To say the ending shook me is a massive understatement
This is the kind of book that just keeps you guessing.
It is so cleverly written that all the way through I had no idea what was going on, but I knew it was something epic and I just had to find out.
To say the ending shook me is a massive understatement
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just wow...
You think this story is about one thing, but its not... its just not!
It made me question everything I have just read and I've been left staring at the screen for about 10 minutes now 🙃
An absolutely fantastic read!!
You think this story is about one thing, but its not... its just not!
It made me question everything I have just read and I've been left staring at the screen for about 10 minutes now 🙃
An absolutely fantastic read!!
August 5, 2026
...... I am UNWELL. Of all the endings that could have happened & all the ways I thought this book would end, NONE even came close to that. I have so many questions & SO many unresolved feelings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
People like us, is a southern Gothic read with a Dual point of view of past and present. AS Lola remembers her high school Years, she thinks about her choices and
The one who never leaves her
thoughts.
There was a part in this book that had me questioning everything. This is a an awesome read that left me wanting more.
The one who never leaves her
thoughts.
There was a part in this book that had me questioning everything. This is a an awesome read that left me wanting more.
August 25, 2026
I NEED BOOK TWO NOW
August 27, 2026
I had to read the last chapter again! I am beyond shocked!! I'm obsessed and need the second book now pls
August 27, 2026
I've marked many quotes - even related with sider characters - : I've loved reading this book.
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