Description

People Like Them: A Novel

“An engrossing tale of suspense, with a narrative voice that grips from the first page and incisive psychological insight that raises questions about class, race, marriage, and what it takes to commit a terrible crime.”
—The Arab Daily News

“Unflinching. Every word in this crisply told story matters, and every seemingly casual moment is laced with dread, daring you to look away. You won’t.”
—Ani Katz, author of A Good Man

“People Like Them is a terrific novel. Dark and unsettling and brilliantly concise. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.”
—Jane Casey, author of The Burning

Anna and Constant Guillot have made their home in the serene and isolated mountain village of Carmac. Along with their two daughters. The village is known for its tranquility and distance from the chaos of the outside world. The residents of Carmac are closely knit, and it’s a place where everyone is familiar with one another. However, the arrival of Bakary and Sylvia Langlois, along with their three children, brings a noticeable change to the village.

The Langlois family stands out in Carmac due to their wealth and extravagant lifestyle. Their grand chalet and three luxurious cars starkly contrast with the other villagers’ simple and humble living. This stark difference sets them apart from the rest of the community, and an air of unease and uncertainty surrounds their presence. Despite this, the Langlois and the Guillots form a complex and ambiguous friendship, navigating the tensions that arise from their differing social and racial backgrounds.

As time passes, both families encounter financial difficulties, which only exacerbates the underlying tensions between them. The class and racial dynamics of their relationship come to a head, leading to a shocking and unthinkable event. The aftermath of this event shakes the once peaceful and harmonious village of Carmac, and the residents are left grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy.

The novel “People Like Them” delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the complexities of how an individual who appears “normal” on the surface can commit a heinous act. It also delves into the aftermath of such a crime, examining how the loved ones of the perpetrator come to terms with the unimaginable. Furthermore, the book raises thought-provoking questions about the extent to which one can truly know their spouse, delving into the intricacies of human relationships and the secrets that lie beneath the surface.

The narrative of “People Like Them” is a compelling exploration of human nature, delving into the complexities of relationships, identity, and the impact of societal dynamics. It offers a gripping and thought-provoking examination of the human condition, shedding light on the depths of the human mind and the intricacies of human behavior. Through the lens of the Guillot and Langlois families, the novel presents a powerful and poignant portrayal of the human experience, challenging readers to confront the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath the facade of normalcy.