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The Goldens
A delicious, intoxicating debut thriller about a young woman who is swept into a glamorous world of fascinating influencers, glittering parties—and possibly murder.
Chloe has always dreamed of becoming a bestselling writer. Then she meets Clara Holland, a prominent influencer, socialite, and model. Clara is enigmatic, dazzling, gorgeous. And at last, ordinary Chloe has something to write about.
Bonding instantly, Chloe moves into Clara’s grand family estate. They spend long afternoons together, writing Clara’s memoir, polishing social media posts, and planning sumptuous, decadent fairy lights in the orangery, themed cocktails, sequined backdrops, roaring bonfires. But as Clara opens her home to more girls who want to live like her and inspire one another, the media calls them a cult.
As life becomes more claustrophobic, Chloe begins to hear unsettling rumors about Clara. When a girl goes missing after one spectacular party, the rumors take on a sinister new meaning. If she can’t escape Clara’s influence, everything Chloe holds dear may be in danger.
Dark, gut-wrenching, and simmering with danger and atmosphere, The Goldens is about to be your newest obsession.
Chloe has always dreamed of becoming a bestselling writer. Then she meets Clara Holland, a prominent influencer, socialite, and model. Clara is enigmatic, dazzling, gorgeous. And at last, ordinary Chloe has something to write about.
Bonding instantly, Chloe moves into Clara’s grand family estate. They spend long afternoons together, writing Clara’s memoir, polishing social media posts, and planning sumptuous, decadent fairy lights in the orangery, themed cocktails, sequined backdrops, roaring bonfires. But as Clara opens her home to more girls who want to live like her and inspire one another, the media calls them a cult.
As life becomes more claustrophobic, Chloe begins to hear unsettling rumors about Clara. When a girl goes missing after one spectacular party, the rumors take on a sinister new meaning. If she can’t escape Clara’s influence, everything Chloe holds dear may be in danger.
Dark, gut-wrenching, and simmering with danger and atmosphere, The Goldens is about to be your newest obsession.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2025
148 people are currently reading
18111 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Wilson
1 book83 followersLauren Wilson has a BA (Hons) degree in Journalism and an MA in Creative Writing. She lives in North East England with her fiancé and their snuggly spaniels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
July 22, 2025
2.5 stars.
I’m not the target audience for “The Goldens” by Lauren A. Wilson, but I can still appreciate what the author set out to do. This is a story about a Queen Bee-type character who uses her beauty, wealth, and charisma to draw young university women into her orbit — and keep them there.
Wilson does a solid job illustrating how young women, just starting out at university, can become vulnerable to manipulation. In this case, that manipulator is Clara Holland, the daughter of fashion moguls, who has unlimited money, influence, and charm. She’s stunning, self-assured, and impossible to ignore. What does a wealthy, spoiled girl do to keep from being bored? She forms a glittering clique of admirers. Clara doesn't live in a dorm like everyone else — she stays at her parents’ lavish estate, where she throws exclusive parties everyone wants to attend.
Then there’s Chloe Hughes, an ordinary student who feels out of place with her snobby roommates, who mock her accent and background. A twist of fate (they share the same initials) leads Chloe to cross paths with Clara. Chloe is quickly enchanted by Clara’s confidence, though intimidated by her privilege. When Clara invites her to live at the estate — an offer that would save Chloe money and loneliness — she accepts. The friendship seems magical at first, but soon takes a darker turn.
Wilson skillfully explores how peer dynamics can mask toxic relationships, and how predators don’t always come in the form we expect. As rumors swirl about Clara’s past and a friend of Chloe’s goes missing, the glossy surface of Clara’s world begins to crack.
This is a slow-burn thriller — perhaps a bit too slow for my taste, with many extended party scenes that didn’t quite hold my interest. I suspect I might have enjoyed it more if I were closer in age to the characters.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Cassandra Harwood, who did an excellent job bringing the story to life. The audio runs just over 9½ hours.
I’m not the target audience for “The Goldens” by Lauren A. Wilson, but I can still appreciate what the author set out to do. This is a story about a Queen Bee-type character who uses her beauty, wealth, and charisma to draw young university women into her orbit — and keep them there.
Wilson does a solid job illustrating how young women, just starting out at university, can become vulnerable to manipulation. In this case, that manipulator is Clara Holland, the daughter of fashion moguls, who has unlimited money, influence, and charm. She’s stunning, self-assured, and impossible to ignore. What does a wealthy, spoiled girl do to keep from being bored? She forms a glittering clique of admirers. Clara doesn't live in a dorm like everyone else — she stays at her parents’ lavish estate, where she throws exclusive parties everyone wants to attend.
Then there’s Chloe Hughes, an ordinary student who feels out of place with her snobby roommates, who mock her accent and background. A twist of fate (they share the same initials) leads Chloe to cross paths with Clara. Chloe is quickly enchanted by Clara’s confidence, though intimidated by her privilege. When Clara invites her to live at the estate — an offer that would save Chloe money and loneliness — she accepts. The friendship seems magical at first, but soon takes a darker turn.
Wilson skillfully explores how peer dynamics can mask toxic relationships, and how predators don’t always come in the form we expect. As rumors swirl about Clara’s past and a friend of Chloe’s goes missing, the glossy surface of Clara’s world begins to crack.
This is a slow-burn thriller — perhaps a bit too slow for my taste, with many extended party scenes that didn’t quite hold my interest. I suspect I might have enjoyed it more if I were closer in age to the characters.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Cassandra Harwood, who did an excellent job bringing the story to life. The audio runs just over 9½ hours.
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July 10, 2025"The girls, the Goldens, looked at me the same way they looked at her, their faces seeking my love and my favour. And who was I? I was no one."
This was such a great thriller! My favourite read of July so far.
This was such a great thriller! My favourite read of July so far.
July 6, 2025
I enjoyed the FMC, though at times I did want to shake her and shout at her. I did not enjoy Clara, though, which this book centers around. It was an interesting enough read to finish, but the first half felt like an uphill trudge. I listened to the audiobook, which I think helped, I dont know if I would've enjoyed it as much if I had physically read it.
I received this audiobook from Macmillan Audio to listen/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully listening to this audiobook.
I received this audiobook from Macmillan Audio to listen/review. All of the statements above are my true opinions after fully listening to this audiobook.
May 17, 2025
ARC for review. To be published July 15, 2025.
3 stars
Chloe Hughes left her one horse town (do people still say that or know what it means?) to go to Dern University and she hopes to become a writer. Right away she becomes dazzled by Clara Hollander, an artist influencer and socialite, and, to her surprise, Clara seems interested in getting to know Chloe.
Ultimately Chloe moves into Clara’s gorgeous estate and the two work on Clara’s memoir and social media accounts and plan fancy parties. But then other girls who admire Clara begin to move in. Words like “cult” start going around. Then a girl goes missing at a NYE party. Can Chloe escape?
This was just fine. You kind of get Chloe. Nothing earth shattering here. No one appreciates a good friend, that’s for sure.
3 stars
Chloe Hughes left her one horse town (do people still say that or know what it means?) to go to Dern University and she hopes to become a writer. Right away she becomes dazzled by Clara Hollander, an artist influencer and socialite, and, to her surprise, Clara seems interested in getting to know Chloe.
Ultimately Chloe moves into Clara’s gorgeous estate and the two work on Clara’s memoir and social media accounts and plan fancy parties. But then other girls who admire Clara begin to move in. Words like “cult” start going around. Then a girl goes missing at a NYE party. Can Chloe escape?
This was just fine. You kind of get Chloe. Nothing earth shattering here. No one appreciates a good friend, that’s for sure.
June 27, 2025
Lauren Wilson delves into the dynamic of parasocial relationships in this psychological thriller!
I find cults fascinating, and to see it happen from the influencer perspective was an interesting twist. It's easy to fall prey to the rich and glamorous, especially when you think you know them based on what they share online.
Some parts were a bit predictable, but it is a YA thriller so I’ll give it a pass! I enjoyed the quick-paced plot and the characters. Lots of Gossip Girl vibes!
Thank you, Flatiron Books, for my ARC! The Goldens is out July 15, 2025.
I find cults fascinating, and to see it happen from the influencer perspective was an interesting twist. It's easy to fall prey to the rich and glamorous, especially when you think you know them based on what they share online.
Some parts were a bit predictable, but it is a YA thriller so I’ll give it a pass! I enjoyed the quick-paced plot and the characters. Lots of Gossip Girl vibes!
Thank you, Flatiron Books, for my ARC! The Goldens is out July 15, 2025.
February 27, 2025
How typical that the one time I really would want to have a real juicy conversation with someone about a book is the time that it’s an unreleased book not out for 6 months that I happened to get my hands on from my connected connections in the book industry. Sigh.
This was very very readable. Bloody influencers amirite. The ending (like the literal last paragraph) made me really annoyed though and I don’t know if I bought it. But overall defo recommend this one if you like girlies gone wild, bit of dark academia (if I may be so bold) and books by people called Lauren.
This was very very readable. Bloody influencers amirite. The ending (like the literal last paragraph) made me really annoyed though and I don’t know if I bought it. But overall defo recommend this one if you like girlies gone wild, bit of dark academia (if I may be so bold) and books by people called Lauren.
June 19, 2025
This gave me vaguely Gossip Girl vibes, mixed with You and a little bit of dark academia. It was a very heady read, which I think is entirely the point, given the plot of this book - it was really addictive and dreamlike, along with just a tad of claustrophobia. I felt engaged throughout, and that ending??? While admittedly predictable, I still felt surprised and horrified. This book deals HEAVILY in social media, which I do think will quickly date it, but is an interesting take on today’s obsession with influencers.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 8, 2025
might be the most fucked up ya book I have ever read
July 19, 2025
All that glitters ain‘t gold(en).
When first-year university student and aspiring author Chloe meets Clara Holland, a glamorous influencer, she’s swept into a world of curated perfection, lavish parties, and online fame. Invited to live at Clara’s sprawling estate, Chloe becomes entangled in a glittering lifestyle that blurs the lines between friendship, manipulation, and obsession. But as Clara’s circle of followers grows and rumors begin to swirl, Chloe discovers that behind the filters and fairy lights lies something far darker - and more dangerous - than she ever imagined.
The Goldens started off strong, pulling the reader right into Chloe’s world as she arrives at a prestigious university, feeling isolated and out of place - until she meets the dazzling Clara Holland. Clara is a fascinating character: mysterious, magnetic, and hard to pin down, a magnetic social media icon whose lifestyle is as intoxicating as it is curated. Watching Chloe get pulled into her orbit was gripping at first.
The early parts of the book contain a timely and engaging exploration of themes like loneliness, the hunger for belonging, ambition, and the seductive pull of influencer culture. The commentary on social media and the power certain personalities hold over their followers felt on point and thought-provoking.
That said, the final section of the book was increasingly implausible. The concept of a 19-year old running a full-blown influencer cult strained credulity, and the climactic party sequence leaned heavily into melodrama. The last party in particular felt both predictable and wildly over the top, which undercut the suspense for me. What started as an insightful and grounded narrative eventually spiraled into something that felt less believable and more sensational.
All in all, Lauren Wilson’s The Goldens offers a sharp and atmospheric take on the darker side of influencer culture, resulting in an undeniably intriguing debut with a strong voice and some powerful ideas. It’s an often thought-provoking and atmospherical read and will likely resonate with readers interested in the psychological cost of internet fame. I just wish the ending had shown a bit more restraint, as the novel might have benefited from a more grounded and nuanced conclusion to truly land its themes.
I listened to the audiobook, which was produced flawlessly. Narrator Cassandra Harwood’s performance captures Chloe’s vulnerability and growing unease with subtle, nuanced delivery. While the plot itself eventually veers into the implausible, Harwood’s narration keeps the experience grounded and engaging, making the audiobook a compelling way to experience the novel.
Many thanks to MacMillan Audio and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
„The Goldens“ was published on July 15, 2025, and is available now.
When first-year university student and aspiring author Chloe meets Clara Holland, a glamorous influencer, she’s swept into a world of curated perfection, lavish parties, and online fame. Invited to live at Clara’s sprawling estate, Chloe becomes entangled in a glittering lifestyle that blurs the lines between friendship, manipulation, and obsession. But as Clara’s circle of followers grows and rumors begin to swirl, Chloe discovers that behind the filters and fairy lights lies something far darker - and more dangerous - than she ever imagined.
The Goldens started off strong, pulling the reader right into Chloe’s world as she arrives at a prestigious university, feeling isolated and out of place - until she meets the dazzling Clara Holland. Clara is a fascinating character: mysterious, magnetic, and hard to pin down, a magnetic social media icon whose lifestyle is as intoxicating as it is curated. Watching Chloe get pulled into her orbit was gripping at first.
The early parts of the book contain a timely and engaging exploration of themes like loneliness, the hunger for belonging, ambition, and the seductive pull of influencer culture. The commentary on social media and the power certain personalities hold over their followers felt on point and thought-provoking.
That said, the final section of the book was increasingly implausible. The concept of a 19-year old running a full-blown influencer cult strained credulity, and the climactic party sequence leaned heavily into melodrama. The last party in particular felt both predictable and wildly over the top, which undercut the suspense for me. What started as an insightful and grounded narrative eventually spiraled into something that felt less believable and more sensational.
All in all, Lauren Wilson’s The Goldens offers a sharp and atmospheric take on the darker side of influencer culture, resulting in an undeniably intriguing debut with a strong voice and some powerful ideas. It’s an often thought-provoking and atmospherical read and will likely resonate with readers interested in the psychological cost of internet fame. I just wish the ending had shown a bit more restraint, as the novel might have benefited from a more grounded and nuanced conclusion to truly land its themes.
I listened to the audiobook, which was produced flawlessly. Narrator Cassandra Harwood’s performance captures Chloe’s vulnerability and growing unease with subtle, nuanced delivery. While the plot itself eventually veers into the implausible, Harwood’s narration keeps the experience grounded and engaging, making the audiobook a compelling way to experience the novel.
Many thanks to MacMillan Audio and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
„The Goldens“ was published on July 15, 2025, and is available now.
May 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
This book is exactly what I want to find every single time I see the mention of dark academia on tropes or anything like it. I'm a big fan of this aesthetic and what it represents in terms of story and plot and The Goldens is a fresh take on everything we can find in a DA book: the character of the "outsider", the toxic friendships, the idea of cult and obssesion, the tension surrounding a mysterious death but instead of the classic academic interest on literature or ancient history (for example), the focus of attention is social media, influencers and socialites, Gossip Girl style.
The setting was amazing! The author did a great job reflecting this world of luxury and exclusivity, being very descriptive of every detail: the decorations, the dresses, the jewelries, and I found it quite inmersive and like I could see what was happening, not just reading about it.
The pacing was also really well done, slow yet engaging. This is the type of story where you know that something is happening, but can't point a finger on what and that made it very bingeable for me. I just couldn't stop reading. The vibe was kinda claustrophobic at times, in a good way.
The characters were quite interesting as well! The dynamic between Chloe and Clara was so intense and a bit codependent but at the same time kinda relatable tho I wish that certain secondary characters have had a better development and more on page time. However, I understand that by maintaining the focus on the 2 FMCs mostly, added to that feeling of isolation and bubble where both lived.
As for the ending, it wasn't a big surprise for me but that doesn't mean I enjoyed any less. As the rest of the book it was well crafted if not to over the top. I think I would actually like a sequel 😏.
So, I def recommend!!!! Plus the edition is just gorgeous!!!! I'm in love and I need it in my hands!
(Thanks to the publisher and the author for the eARC)
This book is exactly what I want to find every single time I see the mention of dark academia on tropes or anything like it. I'm a big fan of this aesthetic and what it represents in terms of story and plot and The Goldens is a fresh take on everything we can find in a DA book: the character of the "outsider", the toxic friendships, the idea of cult and obssesion, the tension surrounding a mysterious death but instead of the classic academic interest on literature or ancient history (for example), the focus of attention is social media, influencers and socialites, Gossip Girl style.
The setting was amazing! The author did a great job reflecting this world of luxury and exclusivity, being very descriptive of every detail: the decorations, the dresses, the jewelries, and I found it quite inmersive and like I could see what was happening, not just reading about it.
The pacing was also really well done, slow yet engaging. This is the type of story where you know that something is happening, but can't point a finger on what and that made it very bingeable for me. I just couldn't stop reading. The vibe was kinda claustrophobic at times, in a good way.
The characters were quite interesting as well! The dynamic between Chloe and Clara was so intense and a bit codependent but at the same time kinda relatable tho I wish that certain secondary characters have had a better development and more on page time. However, I understand that by maintaining the focus on the 2 FMCs mostly, added to that feeling of isolation and bubble where both lived.
As for the ending, it wasn't a big surprise for me but that doesn't mean I enjoyed any less. As the rest of the book it was well crafted if not to over the top. I think I would actually like a sequel 😏.
So, I def recommend!!!! Plus the edition is just gorgeous!!!! I'm in love and I need it in my hands!
(Thanks to the publisher and the author for the eARC)
March 17, 2025
‘A delicious, intoxicating debut thriller about a young woman who is swept into a glamorous world of fascinating influencers, glittering parties—and possibly murder.’
Is this not marketed as YA? Certainly reads like one. That or perhaps I was simply the wrong audience. What with my inability to connect with the FMC or any of the other characters and my struggle to relate to the plot, I felt like I was in the wrong age-bracket to find this book enjoyable or satisfying.
The young FC's were juvenile and petty; obsessed with Instagram and an influencer who’d garnered an obscene amount of followers. The influencer herself was overtly ostentatious, selfish and jealous which seemingly induced a malevolent and murderous side.
None of this to say the writing wasn’t well done. It was. I just couldn’t identify with the jejune subject matter and I found the cast insufferable. I think my daughter would be more likely to appreciate this story and I'll recommend it to her.
Thanks to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for this arc in exchange for an honest review. I am always grateful.
Pub: 7.15.2025.
Is this not marketed as YA? Certainly reads like one. That or perhaps I was simply the wrong audience. What with my inability to connect with the FMC or any of the other characters and my struggle to relate to the plot, I felt like I was in the wrong age-bracket to find this book enjoyable or satisfying.
The young FC's were juvenile and petty; obsessed with Instagram and an influencer who’d garnered an obscene amount of followers. The influencer herself was overtly ostentatious, selfish and jealous which seemingly induced a malevolent and murderous side.
None of this to say the writing wasn’t well done. It was. I just couldn’t identify with the jejune subject matter and I found the cast insufferable. I think my daughter would be more likely to appreciate this story and I'll recommend it to her.
Thanks to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for this arc in exchange for an honest review. I am always grateful.
Pub: 7.15.2025.
July 7, 2025
3.5* rounded down. I really enjoyed this and got through it quite quickly!
‘the goldens’ follows aspiring author chloe as she starts uni hundreds of miles away from her hometown. when chloe moves into her shared accommodation, she finds herself excluded from her housemates and being judged on her intelligence because of her northern accent.
chloe befriends olivia who is on her uni course, and later in the book, the infamous clara holland.
chloe and clara become quick friends, together hosting extravagant parties with champagne and rich socialites. but on NYE, a girl goes missing, and then rumours start surfacing about clara, and her potential involvement in the disappearance.
the goldens main focus is toxic teenage friendships and relationships, and how they can change who we are, and ultimately destroy us.
another focus is social media, and how we form parasocial relationships with people online, but the crux of it is that we don’t even know them. it’s easy to fake an online personality, and due to how prevalent social media is, it’s also easy for people to be manipulated.
I enjoyed reading this, and while the beginning felt quite slow, it picked up after ~40%, and I finished it in one final sitting. the characters were well written, with complexities that made you sympathise for them, and try to understand why they are the way they are.
a stellar debut from lauren wilson, and I can’t wait to read more!
‘the goldens’ follows aspiring author chloe as she starts uni hundreds of miles away from her hometown. when chloe moves into her shared accommodation, she finds herself excluded from her housemates and being judged on her intelligence because of her northern accent.
chloe befriends olivia who is on her uni course, and later in the book, the infamous clara holland.
chloe and clara become quick friends, together hosting extravagant parties with champagne and rich socialites. but on NYE, a girl goes missing, and then rumours start surfacing about clara, and her potential involvement in the disappearance.
the goldens main focus is toxic teenage friendships and relationships, and how they can change who we are, and ultimately destroy us.
another focus is social media, and how we form parasocial relationships with people online, but the crux of it is that we don’t even know them. it’s easy to fake an online personality, and due to how prevalent social media is, it’s also easy for people to be manipulated.
I enjoyed reading this, and while the beginning felt quite slow, it picked up after ~40%, and I finished it in one final sitting. the characters were well written, with complexities that made you sympathise for them, and try to understand why they are the way they are.
a stellar debut from lauren wilson, and I can’t wait to read more!
May 2, 2025
I received this book as an advanced copy as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
I really enjoyed this YA thriller and think this will be a very popular book once it's released. I thought the author did a great job of structuring the story around all female characters and how much of an impact social media has on our lives and friendships. The writing and storytelling were beautiful and I loved the setting of the book.
I really enjoyed this YA thriller and think this will be a very popular book once it's released. I thought the author did a great job of structuring the story around all female characters and how much of an impact social media has on our lives and friendships. The writing and storytelling were beautiful and I loved the setting of the book.
May 29, 2025
Lauren Wilson’s The Goldens is what happens when the world of academia gets a glittering, social media fuelled facetune. Forget stories based around libraries and student unions, this book swaps the average student life for influencer culture, and the result is utterly hypnotic. It’s got all the classic hallmarks of the genre: An outsider lured into an intoxicating world, a web of toxic friendships, whispers of a cult-like existence, and of course, the creeping shadow of an unsolved mystery. Wilson’s world pulses with tremendous glamour, camera attention, designer gowns, and the slippery allure of online fame. Gossip Girl could NEVER!
At the heart of it all are Chloe and Clara, two girls bound together in a that codependent university friendship we all experience that feels both intoxicating and inevitable. However, Clara isn’t just popular. She’s alluring (tries not to make a Miranda reference), the kind of girl who makes you believe that standing next to her is enough to define your identity. And Chloe? She’s the rest of us at university with a combo of insecurity and eagerness, willing to mould to fit the world in which we want to belong, even if the cracks start showing.
The tension builds like a slow burn thriller, but without you realising. You know something is off, but you’re so invested in the characters and their relationship that trying to pinpoint exactly what will keep you turning pages at an alarming rate. Lauren Wilson’s writing is so immersive that, like Chloe, you will ignore the red flags of Clara waving in your face out of want to dive deeper into this world!
And then comes the unravelling. Wilson masterfully dials up the claustrophobia, twisting the high life of influencer-hood in university into something dark and unsettling. The eerie cult-like undertones, the obsession, the unanswered questions, it all crescendos into an ending that will not only shock but satisfy readers aswell. Is Clara a visionary or a villain? Was Chloe a willing participant or just another pawn? The Goldens leaves you haunted, questioning, and will have you absolutely desperate for more.
The Goldens is going to have you as obsessed as the student population is with Clara over this summer. Not only is it the perfect beach, holiday, friends trip read, it suits the likely stormy summer we’ll experience at home too. Ideal for anyone reading YA, this is one thriller I don’t want you to miss, and get preordering your copy now!
At the heart of it all are Chloe and Clara, two girls bound together in a that codependent university friendship we all experience that feels both intoxicating and inevitable. However, Clara isn’t just popular. She’s alluring (tries not to make a Miranda reference), the kind of girl who makes you believe that standing next to her is enough to define your identity. And Chloe? She’s the rest of us at university with a combo of insecurity and eagerness, willing to mould to fit the world in which we want to belong, even if the cracks start showing.
The tension builds like a slow burn thriller, but without you realising. You know something is off, but you’re so invested in the characters and their relationship that trying to pinpoint exactly what will keep you turning pages at an alarming rate. Lauren Wilson’s writing is so immersive that, like Chloe, you will ignore the red flags of Clara waving in your face out of want to dive deeper into this world!
And then comes the unravelling. Wilson masterfully dials up the claustrophobia, twisting the high life of influencer-hood in university into something dark and unsettling. The eerie cult-like undertones, the obsession, the unanswered questions, it all crescendos into an ending that will not only shock but satisfy readers aswell. Is Clara a visionary or a villain? Was Chloe a willing participant or just another pawn? The Goldens leaves you haunted, questioning, and will have you absolutely desperate for more.
The Goldens is going to have you as obsessed as the student population is with Clara over this summer. Not only is it the perfect beach, holiday, friends trip read, it suits the likely stormy summer we’ll experience at home too. Ideal for anyone reading YA, this is one thriller I don’t want you to miss, and get preordering your copy now!
March 10, 2025
“The Goldens” by Lauren Wilson is an obsessive mysterious read about two women in their first year of college. One who is a rich successful model, blogger, and influential social media personality. The second, a naïve, lonely, storyteller who longs to be something special. As their friendship develops it begins to shift into an unsettling and tense relationship. Social media attention describing the wild parties, beautiful clothes, drugs alcohol excesses cause more young women enter their world and a cult like culture develops until a girl mysteriously disappears.
This book is about the power of devotion that can be created by the media, and the scary consequences of being a “follower” when there is an evil force behind it.
I read this book in one sitting and recommend it to everyone, especially those who have children in this age group. There is an important awareness that comes from reading this book.
Thank you NetGalley and Flatiron Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 20, 2025
Clara is rich, pretty, and popular. She has everything. So why would she want to be friends with Chloe the loner? Nonetheless she does and soon invited Chloe to live with her. But Chloe and the Internet can't give Clara what she really wants: love. So Clara tries to find the next best thing-blind devotion. Clara takes girls who are easily malleable and isolated them, making them beholden to her. She starts her own cult, and heaven help anyone who stands in her way.
This novel seems more like general fiction than thriller to me and the deaths seem glaringly obvious, particularly with the backstory we are immediately given. That being said this is an interesting tale about toxic relationships and how they can cross the line. Also, the sheer hubris at the end was jaw dropping.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Lauren Wilson, and Macmillan audio for this audiobook.
This novel seems more like general fiction than thriller to me and the deaths seem glaringly obvious, particularly with the backstory we are immediately given. That being said this is an interesting tale about toxic relationships and how they can cross the line. Also, the sheer hubris at the end was jaw dropping.
thank you to NetGalley, the author Lauren Wilson, and Macmillan audio for this audiobook.
April 25, 2025
Thank you to Flatiron Books for providing me with a gifted galley copy of The Goldens by Lauren Wilson. All opinions are my own.
Chloe Hughes has always dreamed of being a writer, and she's excited to begin her academic life at Dern College. When she meets Clara Holland, a well-known social media influencer, they have an instant connection. Chloe finds herself caught up in Clara's orbit, and moves into her mansion. As Clara's social media presence continues to grow, Chloe starts to question her strange behavior. Clara's parties take on a wilder feel and she opens the mansion up to her adoring followers. When a girl goes missing after one of the parties, Chloe starts to hear rumors of Clara's past, and there are whispers of cult-like behavior at the mansion. Now Chloe must decide where her loyalties lie and reevaluate the influence Clara has over her life.
The Goldens is a captivating debut thriller novel. I loved the atmosphere that Wilson created, with light sparkly feel of Clara's social media presence along with a darker feel from the sinister undercurrent in the story. The academic setting was perfect, and a great way to show the dangers of wanting to belong, popularity, and the influence of social media.
Both Chloe and Clara are complex characters. They are both looking for attention, and I thought Wilson did a fantastic job of showing how that need manifested in both of them. Chloe's fascination with Clara and desperation to belong, blinds her to Clara's behavior. Clara compensates her parent's neglectful behavior with the adoration she receives from her followers. There is definitely obsessive behavior taking place in both girls, but in completely different ways.
The slow burn of manipulation and lies, and the questions about Clara's past behavior is done so well. There's a subtle, dark undertone that kept me riveted as the story unfolded. I loved the way Wilson incorporated the cult storyline, with the emergence of The Goldens, and the downfall it brought with it. And the twist at the end was perfect! I couldn't imagine the story ending any other way.
If you love academic settings, mystery, dangerous secrets, cult behavior, the effects of social media, and complex female friendships then I would highly recommend The Goldens.
Chloe Hughes has always dreamed of being a writer, and she's excited to begin her academic life at Dern College. When she meets Clara Holland, a well-known social media influencer, they have an instant connection. Chloe finds herself caught up in Clara's orbit, and moves into her mansion. As Clara's social media presence continues to grow, Chloe starts to question her strange behavior. Clara's parties take on a wilder feel and she opens the mansion up to her adoring followers. When a girl goes missing after one of the parties, Chloe starts to hear rumors of Clara's past, and there are whispers of cult-like behavior at the mansion. Now Chloe must decide where her loyalties lie and reevaluate the influence Clara has over her life.
The Goldens is a captivating debut thriller novel. I loved the atmosphere that Wilson created, with light sparkly feel of Clara's social media presence along with a darker feel from the sinister undercurrent in the story. The academic setting was perfect, and a great way to show the dangers of wanting to belong, popularity, and the influence of social media.
Both Chloe and Clara are complex characters. They are both looking for attention, and I thought Wilson did a fantastic job of showing how that need manifested in both of them. Chloe's fascination with Clara and desperation to belong, blinds her to Clara's behavior. Clara compensates her parent's neglectful behavior with the adoration she receives from her followers. There is definitely obsessive behavior taking place in both girls, but in completely different ways.
The slow burn of manipulation and lies, and the questions about Clara's past behavior is done so well. There's a subtle, dark undertone that kept me riveted as the story unfolded. I loved the way Wilson incorporated the cult storyline, with the emergence of The Goldens, and the downfall it brought with it. And the twist at the end was perfect! I couldn't imagine the story ending any other way.
If you love academic settings, mystery, dangerous secrets, cult behavior, the effects of social media, and complex female friendships then I would highly recommend The Goldens.
August 9, 2025
3.5 - I really liked the setting & premise but would have liked a little more depth.
July 7, 2025
The Goldens by Lauren Wilson tells a story about 18 year old Chloe who enters the institution of her dreams, Dern University, with aspirations to become a writer. Chloe who is self-conscious, introverted and not as out going. While on campus she meets the enigmatic influencer, rich, confident and popular Clara Holland, Chloe is besotted, mesmerized and simply in awe of her. They bond quickly, become good friends and Chole takes the next step by moving into Clara's grandeur mansion Deneside Manor. Everything is perfect Chole gets to experience the rich, luxurious, fabulous, free and party life style she never imagined for herself. The biggest part of all this is she gets to enjoy it all with Clara, that is until Clara opens up her home to other girls desperate to live like her, Clara establishes her self with Chloe alongside her. Soon this gathering of girls who have closed themselves off from their family and friends, committed to only each other, call themselves "Goldens", but the media call them a cult. Chole starts to hear unsettling rumors about Clara, and more parties take place at the manor, she begins to see another side of Clara, one that unsettles her and makes her question everything.
Lauren Wilson's writing is pretty good in all honesty and the story had me gripped because I was curious to see how the story would unfold. She gives us a pretty interesting prologue and Chole's character shows signs of growth and improvement in the early chapters. However after the death of a character the story pretty much moves at an incredibly slow pace, with a pretty mediocre plot to carry it forward to the climax and twist. Written in the perspective of Chloe, for nearly 30 chapters all she does is fawn and rave over Clara, as well as relish and praise the excellent standard of living she has in Deneside Manor. The Goldens had themes of "Gossip Girl" with a different sort of murder mystery fell to it, however it fell short with regards to its story telling.
The book definitely had potential to be murder mystery, but I guess the author wanted to focus more on the concept of a rich child lacking attention and affection by her parents. Focused on a main character who is self-conscious, befriends someone she never could have imagined and lives a high class life with her. This is not a awful book, I just personally did not like it and found it frustrating and cringey at times. Especially when the answer was screaming at the main character, Chloe's face, the supporting character "Olivia" honestly was my preferred character because she thought logically and behaved much more maturely compared to the rest of the characters in this book. Her and Chole's mother, regardless I am sure there readers out there who will find this book enjoyable and possibly thought provoking, I see myself easily forgetting this book.
Lauren Wilson's writing is pretty good in all honesty and the story had me gripped because I was curious to see how the story would unfold. She gives us a pretty interesting prologue and Chole's character shows signs of growth and improvement in the early chapters. However after the death of a character the story pretty much moves at an incredibly slow pace, with a pretty mediocre plot to carry it forward to the climax and twist. Written in the perspective of Chloe, for nearly 30 chapters all she does is fawn and rave over Clara, as well as relish and praise the excellent standard of living she has in Deneside Manor. The Goldens had themes of "Gossip Girl" with a different sort of murder mystery fell to it, however it fell short with regards to its story telling.
The book definitely had potential to be murder mystery, but I guess the author wanted to focus more on the concept of a rich child lacking attention and affection by her parents. Focused on a main character who is self-conscious, befriends someone she never could have imagined and lives a high class life with her. This is not a awful book, I just personally did not like it and found it frustrating and cringey at times. Especially when the answer was screaming at the main character, Chloe's face, the supporting character "Olivia" honestly was my preferred character because she thought logically and behaved much more maturely compared to the rest of the characters in this book. Her and Chole's mother, regardless I am sure there readers out there who will find this book enjoyable and possibly thought provoking, I see myself easily forgetting this book.
June 28, 2025
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A misfit goes to college and falls in with an influencer, who basically starts a cult. Then there's a murder.
Very British, and not really in a good way.
A misfit goes to college and falls in with an influencer, who basically starts a cult. Then there's a murder.
Very British, and not really in a good way.
July 21, 2025
Surprised by how much I enjoyed this!
July 5, 2025
five stars for sheer enjoyment. clara holland i would join your fruity little cult
July 22, 2025
It’s always the pretty ones that hide the darkest secrets. 👀
Thank you, Macmillan Audio, for the gifted copy of The Goldens {partner}
Genre: Young Adult
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 7.15.2025
Pages: 291
Star Rating: ☆☆☆
While I can’t say I loved this book, I really enjoyed the rich, atmospheric setting. Think glitz, glam, and glossy perfection masking something just a little bit off. It gave me strong YA vibes—not a bad thing, but it did take me a bit longer to get into the story because of that tone.
There’s technically a mystery, but not in the traditional sense. The tension here is built through subtle unease. The author drops just enough hints to keep you wondering what’s lurking beneath the surface, and it works.
Where The Goldens shines is in its cult element. If you’re at all fascinated by the psychology of cults, this one delivers. The author nails how easy it is to slide into groupthink—and how rarely the people inside realize it’s happening.
Audiobook Review: ★★★★
Narrated by Cassandra Harwood (a new-to-me voice), the performance was solid. Her tone reminded me so much of Aimee Lou Wood (The White Lotus) that it took a few chapters to separate that image from the actual main character—but once I did, I was all in.
Read if you enjoy:
✨ Glamorous settings
🌀 Cult psychology
💄 Lifestyles of social media influencers
📖 Unique Character Dynamics
_____
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Thank you, Macmillan Audio, for the gifted copy of The Goldens {partner}
Genre: Young Adult
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 7.15.2025
Pages: 291
Star Rating: ☆☆☆
While I can’t say I loved this book, I really enjoyed the rich, atmospheric setting. Think glitz, glam, and glossy perfection masking something just a little bit off. It gave me strong YA vibes—not a bad thing, but it did take me a bit longer to get into the story because of that tone.
There’s technically a mystery, but not in the traditional sense. The tension here is built through subtle unease. The author drops just enough hints to keep you wondering what’s lurking beneath the surface, and it works.
Where The Goldens shines is in its cult element. If you’re at all fascinated by the psychology of cults, this one delivers. The author nails how easy it is to slide into groupthink—and how rarely the people inside realize it’s happening.
Audiobook Review: ★★★★
Narrated by Cassandra Harwood (a new-to-me voice), the performance was solid. Her tone reminded me so much of Aimee Lou Wood (The White Lotus) that it took a few chapters to separate that image from the actual main character—but once I did, I was all in.
Read if you enjoy:
✨ Glamorous settings
🌀 Cult psychology
💄 Lifestyles of social media influencers
📖 Unique Character Dynamics
_____
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on Goodreads: Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on StoryGraph:https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
July 30, 2025
I would not call this a thriller or a mystery. There isn’t anything particularly tense within it and I cannot imagine any reader not understanding what is going on the moment the first disappearance occurs. I’d call this contemporary drama, and nothing more.
The author embraced some popular tropes: Dark academia, influencer culture, and cults. Because of their popularity, a writer needs to craft something original with the material to make an impression, and I did not find that here. The story never deviates from its predictable trajectory, and the naive narrator is incredibly difficult to solidly accept.
Don’t get me wrong. I can comprehend the vulnerability that served as a foundation for Chloe‘s friendship with Clara. The setup worked better than the rest of the novel for me. I can believe that Chloe, as a first year student at a university who is ostracized by her housemates, would be easily charmed by Clara‘s attention, popularity, and elegant lifestyle. I know how nasty some people can be when you question their practices, or refuse to conform to their beliefs. I know how frightening and distressing it can be to have the popular person and their allies mar your reputation, not just shunning you from their peer group, but making it difficult for you to find a new one. And I know that it’s especially challenging for young people (although this can happen at any age) to not be influenced when they are looking for support and acceptance.
Had Chloe simply been hesitant to extricate herself from the situation she’d gotten into for the aforementioned reasons, I might have liked The Goldens a bit more. Now I know that the alternative happens, that there are people who know how evil their source of worship is but they worship them anyway. But I think it’s absurd, and I just cannot enjoy a story with a main character who made the choices Chloe did.
What really sealed the deal for my disdain, however, was the anticlimactic conclusion. Everything was resolved in such a convenient fashion for the narrator, and included a highly uncharacteristic act of mercy on Clara’s part, I don’t believe it, but I guess that’s what makes this fiction.
I am immensely grateful to Macmillan Audio for my copy. All opinions are my own.
The author embraced some popular tropes: Dark academia, influencer culture, and cults. Because of their popularity, a writer needs to craft something original with the material to make an impression, and I did not find that here. The story never deviates from its predictable trajectory, and the naive narrator is incredibly difficult to solidly accept.
Don’t get me wrong. I can comprehend the vulnerability that served as a foundation for Chloe‘s friendship with Clara. The setup worked better than the rest of the novel for me. I can believe that Chloe, as a first year student at a university who is ostracized by her housemates, would be easily charmed by Clara‘s attention, popularity, and elegant lifestyle. I know how nasty some people can be when you question their practices, or refuse to conform to their beliefs. I know how frightening and distressing it can be to have the popular person and their allies mar your reputation, not just shunning you from their peer group, but making it difficult for you to find a new one. And I know that it’s especially challenging for young people (although this can happen at any age) to not be influenced when they are looking for support and acceptance.
Had Chloe simply been hesitant to extricate herself from the situation she’d gotten into for the aforementioned reasons, I might have liked The Goldens a bit more. Now I know that the alternative happens, that there are people who know how evil their source of worship is but they worship them anyway. But I think it’s absurd, and I just cannot enjoy a story with a main character who made the choices Chloe did.
What really sealed the deal for my disdain, however, was the anticlimactic conclusion. Everything was resolved in such a convenient fashion for the narrator, and included a highly uncharacteristic act of mercy on Clara’s part, I don’t believe it, but I guess that’s what makes this fiction.
I am immensely grateful to Macmillan Audio for my copy. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2025
4.2⭐️ and 0.5🌶️
🖤YA Mystery/Thriller
🖤Dark Academia
🖤Cults
🖤Parasocial/Content Creator Culture
🖤Saltburn meets Gossip Girl
(No spoilers) I absolutely loved this read. It calls a few important thoughts into discussion; social media culture, YA female friendships/relationships, and the matches that are lit to start the fire that feeds into cult culture.
I will say, Chloe (the FMC) drove me absolutely bonkers at times, not trusting her gut. But that also weaves into part of the story. The author did a great job at detailing; I found myself imagining the details and feeling like I was there. It made the experience that much better. The ending was superb and everything I secretly wanted. Overall, a fantastic read!
Thank you to Flatiron books for the advanced readers copy for free in exchange for an honest review.
🖤YA Mystery/Thriller
🖤Dark Academia
🖤Cults
🖤Parasocial/Content Creator Culture
🖤Saltburn meets Gossip Girl
(No spoilers) I absolutely loved this read. It calls a few important thoughts into discussion; social media culture, YA female friendships/relationships, and the matches that are lit to start the fire that feeds into cult culture.
I will say, Chloe (the FMC) drove me absolutely bonkers at times, not trusting her gut. But that also weaves into part of the story. The author did a great job at detailing; I found myself imagining the details and feeling like I was there. It made the experience that much better. The ending was superb and everything I secretly wanted. Overall, a fantastic read!
Thank you to Flatiron books for the advanced readers copy for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this, I’m rating it 4.5 rounded to 5 stars.
I enjoyed this so much, the academic setting and that constant desire to belong. The way fitting in takes such a dark and sinister turn, it was interesting to say the least. I liked our FMC although she was delusional at points, but her heart just saw the best in people she shouldn't.
The vibes of the book reminded me of Bunny, but a lot less weird and fever dream like. Highly recommend for a book that will make you question how far you would go while thinking the whole time that this is definitely a cult.
I enjoyed this so much, the academic setting and that constant desire to belong. The way fitting in takes such a dark and sinister turn, it was interesting to say the least. I liked our FMC although she was delusional at points, but her heart just saw the best in people she shouldn't.
The vibes of the book reminded me of Bunny, but a lot less weird and fever dream like. Highly recommend for a book that will make you question how far you would go while thinking the whole time that this is definitely a cult.
July 8, 2025
I received this book as a GoodReads giveaway.
As a novel, The Goldens is kind of weird. I found the beginning act fairly compelling and normal - a young woman stepping into college for the first time, eager for new beginnings and the future she envisioned. I was excited about Chloe's peek at the world of the elite and privileged.
And then the novel just gets weird. The "cult" looks like little more than an intense sorority, intent on self-indulgence with a hedonistic bent under the guise of "empowerment". It begs the question, "So what?" If a bunch of young, privileged girls want to mooch off one mega-wealthy girl and live the sweet life and piss away their actual opportunities - who cares?
But then almost out of nowhere, it turns dark. Very dark. And weird. And uneven. There's this wild gap between Chloe's obsession with Clara and her own self-awareness. Between Clara's captivating (if VERY basic and manipulative) persona and wicked psychotic undercurrent. Between the innocuous "cult" behavior (Oh dear, champagne nights and smoothie mornings with gold accessories!) and animalistic rituals. It's all rather a large non sequitur. It doesn't follow, and it's jarring. Frankly, I kept waiting for more evidence that our narrator is unreliable.
And the ending...made me want to chuck the book out the window.
As a novel, The Goldens is kind of weird. I found the beginning act fairly compelling and normal - a young woman stepping into college for the first time, eager for new beginnings and the future she envisioned. I was excited about Chloe's peek at the world of the elite and privileged.
And then the novel just gets weird. The "cult" looks like little more than an intense sorority, intent on self-indulgence with a hedonistic bent under the guise of "empowerment". It begs the question, "So what?" If a bunch of young, privileged girls want to mooch off one mega-wealthy girl and live the sweet life and piss away their actual opportunities - who cares?
But then almost out of nowhere, it turns dark. Very dark. And weird. And uneven. There's this wild gap between Chloe's obsession with Clara and her own self-awareness. Between Clara's captivating (if VERY basic and manipulative) persona and wicked psychotic undercurrent. Between the innocuous "cult" behavior (Oh dear, champagne nights and smoothie mornings with gold accessories!) and animalistic rituals. It's all rather a large non sequitur. It doesn't follow, and it's jarring. Frankly, I kept waiting for more evidence that our narrator is unreliable.
And the ending...made me want to chuck the book out the window.
April 13, 2025
This was a thoroughly enjoyable, gripping YA thriller. I read the first half in a single sitting. If you’re a fan of dark academia mysteries like The Secret History, or sparkly social-media driven narratives like Gossip Girl or Emily in Paris, you’ll enjoy the two smashed together in this fast-paced rollercoaster. I thought the author perfectly summarised the sometimes rapid development of female best friendships, in which you throw yourself into a new friend and embracing their proximity before you really know them. Chloe is awestruck by Clara’s shiny, glamorous, influencer lifestyle, and flattered by her attention, and it was easy as a reader to get sucked in and absorbed in the luxury of it all. Soon the cracks start to show, with frequent references to true crime reporting and trials building the tension, ready for the explosive third act. I really loved this book, and it’s full of beautifully written phrases that did remind me of The Secret History and If We Were Villains, with an almost poetic quality, but a much brighter, sparkly feel to the setting. Anyone who has experienced the tumultuous nature of young female friendships and feeling out of place will relate to Chloe, and see why she was so easily led into Clara’s perfect visage of a world. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
July 13, 2025
The Goldens is a single POV cultish thriller told over the course of a uni year all from Chloe's POV. She's a small town girl that just wanted to be accepted and had dreams of becoming a writer. Once she arrives at Uni and moves in with her roommates, she feels like she just traded one world for another and wasn't ultimately getting what she really wanted. Until she finds scarf with her initials that doesn't belong to her, but to a social media star (Clara) that other girls have fallen in love with, including her own roommates. When she is invited to one of Clara's infamous parties, things start looking up socially for Chloe. But at what cost?
This book is Lauren Wilson's debut and was a pretty solid read. I loved the cult vibes and could relate to the MC's thoughts on being accepted and liked by someone that they looked up to. It was no wonder that they got so deep into Clara's life and just couldn't say no to her. Clara, on the other hand is full of red flags with little things that are slowly revealed throughout the story. I don't know if I ever liked her, but she always gave just enough that you wanted to keep turning those pages to see what would happen next and how far she would take situations.
As I listened to the audiobook narrated completely by Cassandra Harwood, I was impressed with the way she brought not only Chloe to life, but gave Clara and the other supporting characters a voice as well. There were so many complexities to their situation, but with Wilson's writing and Harwood's performance, it made it easy to get lost in the story and kept me overall engaged throughout. I think I enjoyed the story that much more because of the audiobook performance.
The Goldens is a well paced story that felt both slow and fast paced at the same time. It was a quick listen that I didn't want to put down. I think it was the build up of getting Chloe to Clara's inner circle and soon basically her whole circle that felt like so much build up to get to the climax that wasn't as explosive as I expected. But if you like stories with an interesting cast of women with some toxic friendships, the uni life mixed with lavish parties and the relevancy of social media and followers, this will definitely be a book to check out. 3.5 stars.
This book is Lauren Wilson's debut and was a pretty solid read. I loved the cult vibes and could relate to the MC's thoughts on being accepted and liked by someone that they looked up to. It was no wonder that they got so deep into Clara's life and just couldn't say no to her. Clara, on the other hand is full of red flags with little things that are slowly revealed throughout the story. I don't know if I ever liked her, but she always gave just enough that you wanted to keep turning those pages to see what would happen next and how far she would take situations.
As I listened to the audiobook narrated completely by Cassandra Harwood, I was impressed with the way she brought not only Chloe to life, but gave Clara and the other supporting characters a voice as well. There were so many complexities to their situation, but with Wilson's writing and Harwood's performance, it made it easy to get lost in the story and kept me overall engaged throughout. I think I enjoyed the story that much more because of the audiobook performance.
The Goldens is a well paced story that felt both slow and fast paced at the same time. It was a quick listen that I didn't want to put down. I think it was the build up of getting Chloe to Clara's inner circle and soon basically her whole circle that felt like so much build up to get to the climax that wasn't as explosive as I expected. But if you like stories with an interesting cast of women with some toxic friendships, the uni life mixed with lavish parties and the relevancy of social media and followers, this will definitely be a book to check out. 3.5 stars.
June 26, 2025
This book is a slow-burning YA mystery packed with plenty of frustrating moments that will keep you on your toes. It begins like a slice of real life, only to spiral into a dream that culminates in a truly twisted nightmare! As you navigate through these stages, you’ll find yourself thinking, “What on earth is happening?”
Chloe, an aspiring bestselling writer, becomes friends with the mysterious influencer Clara Holland and moves into her mansion. As Clara's fame grows, her behavior becomes increasingly erratic, leading to wild parties and unsettling rituals. Chloe hears disturbing rumors about Clara's past, and after a girl goes missing following one of their parties, she realizes she may be in danger herself.
The main character, Chloe, is young, naive, and all too susceptible to peer pressure. We’ve all been there, watching the plain Jane transform into someone others admire or envy. It’s a rite of passage, but how far would you go to maintain that illusion? The characters are youthful and incredibly naive, making it hard to believe that anyone could actually meet a tragic end.
Now, I’m not usually one for YA novels, but the cover caught my eye, and I was curious about the plot. The audiobook narrator did a fantastic job of distinguishing the characters, making it an enjoyable listen overall.
I understand this story might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I found myself thoroughly entertained by the audiobook, the outlandish plot, and the chance to get lost in a whirlwind of teenage drama for a day. If you don’t mind toxic relationships, obsessive cult-like vibes, and the antics of the wealthy with little to no consequences, this book will keep you occupied all summer long. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thank you, MacMillan Audio, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Chloe, an aspiring bestselling writer, becomes friends with the mysterious influencer Clara Holland and moves into her mansion. As Clara's fame grows, her behavior becomes increasingly erratic, leading to wild parties and unsettling rituals. Chloe hears disturbing rumors about Clara's past, and after a girl goes missing following one of their parties, she realizes she may be in danger herself.
The main character, Chloe, is young, naive, and all too susceptible to peer pressure. We’ve all been there, watching the plain Jane transform into someone others admire or envy. It’s a rite of passage, but how far would you go to maintain that illusion? The characters are youthful and incredibly naive, making it hard to believe that anyone could actually meet a tragic end.
Now, I’m not usually one for YA novels, but the cover caught my eye, and I was curious about the plot. The audiobook narrator did a fantastic job of distinguishing the characters, making it an enjoyable listen overall.
I understand this story might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I found myself thoroughly entertained by the audiobook, the outlandish plot, and the chance to get lost in a whirlwind of teenage drama for a day. If you don’t mind toxic relationships, obsessive cult-like vibes, and the antics of the wealthy with little to no consequences, this book will keep you occupied all summer long. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Thank you, MacMillan Audio, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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