Book Review: The People We Keep by Allison Larkin
Sometimes, a book comes along that feels like it’s speaking directly to your soul, pulling you into its world and keeping you captivated from the very first page. This was my experience with The People We Keep by Allison Larkin. I stumbled upon this novel during one of those rare quiet moments where I found myself yearning for a deep, emotional story, and Larkin did not disappoint. Her ability to craft a narrative that feels both painfully real and exhilaratingly hopeful made this a book I couldn’t put down.
At the center of this beautifully woven tale is April, a sixteen-year-old girl trapped in a whirlwind of neglect, betrayal, and ambition. Abandoned by her mother and left to fend for herself as her father embarks on a new life with a woman much younger than him, April’s story kicks off with an unmistakable sense of urgency and desperation. I felt my heart ache for her as she fled her small-town life after making the brave decision to reclaim her agency. Stealing a car and hitting the road, she embarks on a quest not just for physical survival but for a sense of belonging and identity.
Larkin’s writing style effortlessly captured the raw emotions of adolescence and the comfort one seeks in the face of abandonment. Each chapter flowed with a rhythm that made me feel like I was walking alongside April, experiencing her hardships and triumphs as they unfolded. The pacing was spot on; I found myself racing through pages during moments of tension and lingering over exquisite sentences that pulled at my heartstrings. It’s those poignant lines about love, loss, and finding one’s voice that linger in your mind long after you’ve closed the cover.
Through this journey, I was introduced to a cast of unforgettable characters—some who uplifted April, while others challenged her resilience. I developed a strong bond with her new friends, particularly Margot and Ethan, who represented the supportive family April longed for. Each character, even the untrustworthy ones like Justin and her neglectful father, impeccably contributed to April’s growth and her understanding of what family truly means. Their stories intertwined with hers, creating a vivid tapestry of friendship and struggle that every reader can relate to.
One of my favorite moments in the book is when April realizes that home isn’t simply a physical location, but a place forged by the connections we choose to make. This realization resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the importance of our relationships and the love we cultivate in our lives.
I can’t recommend The People We Keep enough—it’s a poignant exploration of resilience, finding one’s voice, and discovering the family we create. If you enjoy coming-of-age tales that hit you right in the heart, or if you love stories filled with rich character development and profound emotional depth, then this book deserves a spot on your reading list. Grab a copy, immerse yourself in April’s world, and prepare to smile, cry, and cheer for her as she journeys through the beautiful chaos of life. Trust me: you won’t regret it!
A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for providing me with a digital copy of this treasure in exchange for my honest thoughts. I could easily read this book again, savoring every moment and nuance within its pages!