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Not Bad People
A clever, compelling debut novel with a unique premise of what happens when three best friends engage in what seems to be a harmless act, but instead results in tragedy, leading the women to confront buried resentments, shattering secrets, dark lies, and the moral consequences that could alter their lives forever.
Three friends, thirty years of shared secrets, one impulsive gesture…and a terrible accident.
It’s New Year’s Eve, in a small town in the rich wine country outside Sydney. Thirty-something Aimee, Melinda, and Lou are best friends reveling in the end-of-year celebrations. And what better way to look ahead to the coming year than to let off Chinese lanterns filled with resolutions: for meaning, for freedom, for money? The fact that it’s illegal to use these lanterns is far in the back of their minds. After the glowing paper bags float away and are lost to sight in the night sky, there’s a bright flare in the distance. It could be a sign of luck—or the start of a complete nightmare that will upend the women’s friendships, families, and careers.
Aimee is convinced their little ceremony caused a major accident. The next day, the newspapers report a small plane crashed, and two victims—one a young boy—were pulled from the wreckage. Were they responsible? Aimee thinks they are, Melinda won't accept it, and Lou has problems of her own. It's a toxic recipe for guilt trips, shame, obsession, blackmail and power games.
They’re not bad people. But desperate times call for desperate measures.
Three friends, thirty years of shared secrets, one impulsive gesture…and a terrible accident.
It’s New Year’s Eve, in a small town in the rich wine country outside Sydney. Thirty-something Aimee, Melinda, and Lou are best friends reveling in the end-of-year celebrations. And what better way to look ahead to the coming year than to let off Chinese lanterns filled with resolutions: for meaning, for freedom, for money? The fact that it’s illegal to use these lanterns is far in the back of their minds. After the glowing paper bags float away and are lost to sight in the night sky, there’s a bright flare in the distance. It could be a sign of luck—or the start of a complete nightmare that will upend the women’s friendships, families, and careers.
Aimee is convinced their little ceremony caused a major accident. The next day, the newspapers report a small plane crashed, and two victims—one a young boy—were pulled from the wreckage. Were they responsible? Aimee thinks they are, Melinda won't accept it, and Lou has problems of her own. It's a toxic recipe for guilt trips, shame, obsession, blackmail and power games.
They’re not bad people. But desperate times call for desperate measures.
566 pages, Paperback
First published May 14, 2019
91 people are currently reading
2731 people want to read
About the author
Brandy Scott
15 books28 followersBrandy Scott is a New Zealand-born, Dubai-based author and journalist. Over her twenty-year career, she's worked as a magazine writer, newspaper editor, and radio presenter. If her agent is reading this, she's writing a new book as fast as she can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
May 25, 2019
A story of those small, seemingly harmless decisions and how they can snowball into tragedy. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
In Australian wine country, just outside Sydney, three life-long best friends, Lou, Melinda, and Aimee, are celebrating the sense of hope and excitement a new year brings.
They decide to set off Chinese lanterns each filled with a resolution. These lanterns are illegal, though.
The lanterns slowly lift away as the women watch until they see a flare. Did something lucky happen, or was it something very, very bad?
Aimee has a strong feeling something bad happened when they saw the flare. The following day they find out a small plane crashed. Aimee continues to shoulder the blame, while Melinda thinks it had nothing to do with the lanterns. Lou is is her own world of problems.
Then, things blow up between these friends. These “not bad people” become toxic, with guilt, obsession, and a desperate need for survival.
Not Bad People is a slower burn of a read, which I actually love. It gives me time and space to reflect on the story, and I did so here. I felt these friends could be my friends, or I could be one of them. They truly were just anyone, and they made a seemingly harmless, but also potentially dangerous, decision, that completely upended their worlds and could be responsible for a tragedy. That made the story intensely relatable- how small decisions can cause huge impacts one never expects.
I felt strongly for the characters, and it was a mix of emotions. I was empathic because it could happen to anyone, and at other times I was angry and frustrated. I think this would make a great discussion book for book clubs because it draws upon what makes people “good” and “bad.” Overall, I found Not Bad People to be a relatable, original, and thought-provoking read.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
In Australian wine country, just outside Sydney, three life-long best friends, Lou, Melinda, and Aimee, are celebrating the sense of hope and excitement a new year brings.
They decide to set off Chinese lanterns each filled with a resolution. These lanterns are illegal, though.
The lanterns slowly lift away as the women watch until they see a flare. Did something lucky happen, or was it something very, very bad?
Aimee has a strong feeling something bad happened when they saw the flare. The following day they find out a small plane crashed. Aimee continues to shoulder the blame, while Melinda thinks it had nothing to do with the lanterns. Lou is is her own world of problems.
Then, things blow up between these friends. These “not bad people” become toxic, with guilt, obsession, and a desperate need for survival.
Not Bad People is a slower burn of a read, which I actually love. It gives me time and space to reflect on the story, and I did so here. I felt these friends could be my friends, or I could be one of them. They truly were just anyone, and they made a seemingly harmless, but also potentially dangerous, decision, that completely upended their worlds and could be responsible for a tragedy. That made the story intensely relatable- how small decisions can cause huge impacts one never expects.
I felt strongly for the characters, and it was a mix of emotions. I was empathic because it could happen to anyone, and at other times I was angry and frustrated. I think this would make a great discussion book for book clubs because it draws upon what makes people “good” and “bad.” Overall, I found Not Bad People to be a relatable, original, and thought-provoking read.
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
May 9, 2019
Not Bad People by Brandy Scott is a slow burn of a book but one that is definitely worth sticking with. It is a long book but you need to keep going until the end. There are so many themes running through this story of friendship, shame, guilt, obsession, power. It is set in a small town where everybody knows everybody elses business but they all have their secrets that they are desperate to keep hidden. I enjoyed how these secrets were slowly revealed and how all their lives intertwined.
3 women - Aimee, Melinda and Lou - friends since childhood and always there for each other. Its New Years Eve and they decide to let off sky lanterns from the balcony with their resolutions for the year inside. There are fireworks going off as well and then they see a spark in the sky. The next day it is reported in the papers that a light plane with a man and his teenage son crashed the night before in the same region. Aimee immediately believes that it is their fault for letting off the lanterns. Lou has her own issues as a single mum to a teenager. Melinda is a successful business woman that on the outside appears selfish and self centred. As the story moves along we learn more about all of these womens pasts and presents that all comes together towards the end.
Reading this book it is hard not to draw parallels with your own life and experiences. I felt sorry for these characters as well as angry. So many of the experiences are honest and could be anybody.
Thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
3 women - Aimee, Melinda and Lou - friends since childhood and always there for each other. Its New Years Eve and they decide to let off sky lanterns from the balcony with their resolutions for the year inside. There are fireworks going off as well and then they see a spark in the sky. The next day it is reported in the papers that a light plane with a man and his teenage son crashed the night before in the same region. Aimee immediately believes that it is their fault for letting off the lanterns. Lou has her own issues as a single mum to a teenager. Melinda is a successful business woman that on the outside appears selfish and self centred. As the story moves along we learn more about all of these womens pasts and presents that all comes together towards the end.
Reading this book it is hard not to draw parallels with your own life and experiences. I felt sorry for these characters as well as angry. So many of the experiences are honest and could be anybody.
Thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
February 15, 2019
I LOVED this book.
There's nothing better than reading a story and starting to feel as though you actually KNOW the characters, finding yourself saying, "Girl, I understand how you feel."
This book takes place in a small town in Australia, smack dab in the middle of a thirty year friendship between three women. And these women are so easy to identify with in so many ways. You read about their lives, their families, and their history together. You learn their fears, their desires, their neurotic bits. You watch as an innocuous action morphs into something different, and how it affects long standing relationships between families, friends, and a tight knit community.
There's nothing better than reading a story and starting to feel as though you actually KNOW the characters, finding yourself saying, "Girl, I understand how you feel."
This book takes place in a small town in Australia, smack dab in the middle of a thirty year friendship between three women. And these women are so easy to identify with in so many ways. You read about their lives, their families, and their history together. You learn their fears, their desires, their neurotic bits. You watch as an innocuous action morphs into something different, and how it affects long standing relationships between families, friends, and a tight knit community.
February 17, 2019
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Brandy Scott is a radio presenter and a journalist, who has embarked upon a new career as a novelist, releasing her debut contemporary fiction piece, Not Bad People. With an open-ended title, it got me thinking about the whole concept of what constitutes as being a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ person. Sometimes the lines and moral boundaries are blurred, thanks to the various situations, or binds we find ourselves in. In Not Bad People, three friends from a small Australian town find their lives irrevocably changed one fateful New Year’s Eve.
Not Bad People is a brand new Harper Collins publication from first time novelist Brandy Scott. I was definitely interested in this novel from the moment I spied the cover and blurb. Endorsed by Nicola Moriarty, I was keen to see how this one would play out. The concept really sparked my interest. It seemed original and a departure from the usual book fare I read. The intrigue factor was high!
I have never taken part in a lantern ceremony, though the idea does appeal. I liked how Brandy Scott used the lantern release experience on New Year’s Eve as the initial complication to this story and boy is it a whopper! The plane crash that very same night the lanterns went up into the air (along with fireworks) is depicted well. It is a good way to revolve a story around this very different accident and Scott examines the fallout from a range of angles.
I am defining Not Bad People as a slow burn style life lit novel. This novel contains a set of characters who are the type of protagonists drawn from real life personalities, or have parts that we can see in ourselves. I know there were many situations faced by these thirty-something women that I was able to relate to. I also have the feeling that the teen based issues experienced by the children of the women in the book will be sure to strike a chord in a few years time, when my own children hit their teens! What a melting pot of complications, problems and tensions!
Not Bad People is about the journey and the transformation the three main characters make as a direct result of the New Year’s Eve lantern ceremony. Scott examines all facets and responses to this situation. She explores extreme blame, guilt and obsession. She also looks at public persona and identity. I felt the greatest amount of sympathy for Lou, who tries to sweep the situation under the carpet, as she has bigger issues to deal with. Lou is forced to confront issues from her past, that all come to the surface following the plane crash event. Scott seems to cover all bases in this area and she has a good grasp of the human condition.
Not Bad People proved to be a so-so read for me. There were parts appreciated, such as the well presented small town setting and the politics associated with living in a localised community. I also liked the unusual accident that kick starts the events of the novel. However, I’m not sure I completely connected to the writing style, or the characters. I do know I felt a great deal of sympathy for Lou, but I can’t say I cared greatly for the other two women, or the supporting cast overly well. I also felt Not Bad People was a little too lengthy and frankly I was over the women, as well as their situation by the end! I was able to put this book down a lot more than usual. Not Bad People is a promising debut novel and I am sure this is only the start of more exciting writing to come from Brandy Scott.
*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty & Lace and Harper Collins – AU.
Brandy Scott is a radio presenter and a journalist, who has embarked upon a new career as a novelist, releasing her debut contemporary fiction piece, Not Bad People. With an open-ended title, it got me thinking about the whole concept of what constitutes as being a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ person. Sometimes the lines and moral boundaries are blurred, thanks to the various situations, or binds we find ourselves in. In Not Bad People, three friends from a small Australian town find their lives irrevocably changed one fateful New Year’s Eve.
Not Bad People is a brand new Harper Collins publication from first time novelist Brandy Scott. I was definitely interested in this novel from the moment I spied the cover and blurb. Endorsed by Nicola Moriarty, I was keen to see how this one would play out. The concept really sparked my interest. It seemed original and a departure from the usual book fare I read. The intrigue factor was high!
I have never taken part in a lantern ceremony, though the idea does appeal. I liked how Brandy Scott used the lantern release experience on New Year’s Eve as the initial complication to this story and boy is it a whopper! The plane crash that very same night the lanterns went up into the air (along with fireworks) is depicted well. It is a good way to revolve a story around this very different accident and Scott examines the fallout from a range of angles.
I am defining Not Bad People as a slow burn style life lit novel. This novel contains a set of characters who are the type of protagonists drawn from real life personalities, or have parts that we can see in ourselves. I know there were many situations faced by these thirty-something women that I was able to relate to. I also have the feeling that the teen based issues experienced by the children of the women in the book will be sure to strike a chord in a few years time, when my own children hit their teens! What a melting pot of complications, problems and tensions!
Not Bad People is about the journey and the transformation the three main characters make as a direct result of the New Year’s Eve lantern ceremony. Scott examines all facets and responses to this situation. She explores extreme blame, guilt and obsession. She also looks at public persona and identity. I felt the greatest amount of sympathy for Lou, who tries to sweep the situation under the carpet, as she has bigger issues to deal with. Lou is forced to confront issues from her past, that all come to the surface following the plane crash event. Scott seems to cover all bases in this area and she has a good grasp of the human condition.
Not Bad People proved to be a so-so read for me. There were parts appreciated, such as the well presented small town setting and the politics associated with living in a localised community. I also liked the unusual accident that kick starts the events of the novel. However, I’m not sure I completely connected to the writing style, or the characters. I do know I felt a great deal of sympathy for Lou, but I can’t say I cared greatly for the other two women, or the supporting cast overly well. I also felt Not Bad People was a little too lengthy and frankly I was over the women, as well as their situation by the end! I was able to put this book down a lot more than usual. Not Bad People is a promising debut novel and I am sure this is only the start of more exciting writing to come from Brandy Scott.
*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty & Lace and Harper Collins – AU.
February 21, 2019
This book started off slow for me and I found myself easily confused with all the different going back and forth between all the different people. I skimmed through several chapters so for that reason I’m giving it 3 stars. Not sure why I couldn’t stay focused throughout and it took me a long time to get through it. It was just ok for me.
August 5, 2020
A stunning debut novel from local Dubai based author @heybrandyscott.
In my opinion, it was a little slow to start however suddenly the storyline ups tempo and builds into a fast paced read that you simply cannot put down so don't write it off. At all. Brandy keeps you captivated right to the very end when you are desperate to discover what happens next to conclude the story. And who, between Lou, Aimee and Melinda will really do what it takes to get what they need out of the situation, each of them pushing boundaries to the limit despite the very best of a thirty year friendship they share together.
What did I make of each of these three main characters? Firstly LOU. I empathised with her the most. She suffered by the ripple effect of words spoken over her, three generations worth of misunderstanding, the after effects of mistakes made and the choices we have live by as a result. My favourite chapter from the book centred around Lou and a frenzied break through moment between her and her daughter Tansy...somebody open the window and find me a skip!
MELINDA, seemingly the strongest of the three friends. A successful, strong and independent business woman, yet underneath it all she seemed lonely, living with regret and felt inadequate.
AIMEE in short, I had down as quite simply a
nutter!
In summary, it is a story that deals with secrets, the hurt and damage of rejection, feelings of inadequacy and the burden of shame. And of course friendship. How strong really is the friendship of Lou, Aimee and Melinda? Surly, Not Bad People? Pick up a copy and decide for yourself ;)
In my opinion, it was a little slow to start however suddenly the storyline ups tempo and builds into a fast paced read that you simply cannot put down so don't write it off. At all. Brandy keeps you captivated right to the very end when you are desperate to discover what happens next to conclude the story. And who, between Lou, Aimee and Melinda will really do what it takes to get what they need out of the situation, each of them pushing boundaries to the limit despite the very best of a thirty year friendship they share together.
What did I make of each of these three main characters? Firstly LOU. I empathised with her the most. She suffered by the ripple effect of words spoken over her, three generations worth of misunderstanding, the after effects of mistakes made and the choices we have live by as a result. My favourite chapter from the book centred around Lou and a frenzied break through moment between her and her daughter Tansy...somebody open the window and find me a skip!
MELINDA, seemingly the strongest of the three friends. A successful, strong and independent business woman, yet underneath it all she seemed lonely, living with regret and felt inadequate.
AIMEE in short, I had down as quite simply a
nutter!
In summary, it is a story that deals with secrets, the hurt and damage of rejection, feelings of inadequacy and the burden of shame. And of course friendship. How strong really is the friendship of Lou, Aimee and Melinda? Surly, Not Bad People? Pick up a copy and decide for yourself ;)
January 7, 2019
This is one of those books which you wish would never end, while at the same time racing to get to the finish, to find out how it all works out. I found myself longing to get back to the characters every time I had to put the book down.
Brandy Scott’s debut novel is quick-paced, funny, poignantly truthful, and full of surprises. Above all, it is extremely readable. Her characters (and she gets into the heads of a lot of them) are realistic in their flaws, and without being stereotypical they are the people you meet every day. They are relatable.
A favourite aspect of this book for me was Brandy Scott’s ability to speak from the view of so many different characters, an important aspect of the clever and multi-faceted plot, and brought to life one of the themes running through the story – that not everything is at it seems to someone else.
I am eager to see what Brandy Scott will write next.
Brandy Scott’s debut novel is quick-paced, funny, poignantly truthful, and full of surprises. Above all, it is extremely readable. Her characters (and she gets into the heads of a lot of them) are realistic in their flaws, and without being stereotypical they are the people you meet every day. They are relatable.
A favourite aspect of this book for me was Brandy Scott’s ability to speak from the view of so many different characters, an important aspect of the clever and multi-faceted plot, and brought to life one of the themes running through the story – that not everything is at it seems to someone else.
I am eager to see what Brandy Scott will write next.
April 29, 2019
Wow! I would call this a domestic, psychological suspense novel. It has an exceptional premise and is a thoroughly absorbing read. This is a debut?!
On New Year's Eve in a small town outside of Sydney three women who have been friends for thirty years - Aimee, Melinda and Lou - have a "letting go" ceremony off of Melinda's balcony.
They light the candles in sky lanterns, not realizing they've been banned for 10 years, with notes attached of things they want to let go as to start the new year fresh.
Minutes later, in the distance, they see a flare of light. Then the sound of sirens.
The next morning Aimee sees the news article about the small plane crash. Immediately see believes the sky lanterns caused it. What is she going to do? Is she right?
That same morning Pete, the pilot of the plane, is in hospital recovering from broken bones and presumably temporary blindness. His teenage son is in ICU in a coma. Pete blames himself for the crash. Is he right?
I loved how this novel took its time so we really get to know these three women and their history and what makes them tick.
They have issues. Aimee is OCD'ed out. Big time. Melinda's on a power trip. And Lou...oh, poor Lou.
These are unusually deep characterizations. Brilliantly written.
After the first 100 pages the subtle surprises start becoming full-blown shockers. You realize you're in for something awesome.
The convoluted plot and the superb structure are amazing.
The revelations will leave you short of breath.
Then, there's the inquiry.....
All this is a pernicious mix leading to deep, buried secrets and resentments, guilt trips, shame, obsession, blackmail and power games.
The ending is sublime.
In short, it's a savory taste of high-tension goodness.
Outstanding!
This was an ARC giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
On New Year's Eve in a small town outside of Sydney three women who have been friends for thirty years - Aimee, Melinda and Lou - have a "letting go" ceremony off of Melinda's balcony.
They light the candles in sky lanterns, not realizing they've been banned for 10 years, with notes attached of things they want to let go as to start the new year fresh.
Minutes later, in the distance, they see a flare of light. Then the sound of sirens.
The next morning Aimee sees the news article about the small plane crash. Immediately see believes the sky lanterns caused it. What is she going to do? Is she right?
That same morning Pete, the pilot of the plane, is in hospital recovering from broken bones and presumably temporary blindness. His teenage son is in ICU in a coma. Pete blames himself for the crash. Is he right?
I loved how this novel took its time so we really get to know these three women and their history and what makes them tick.
They have issues. Aimee is OCD'ed out. Big time. Melinda's on a power trip. And Lou...oh, poor Lou.
These are unusually deep characterizations. Brilliantly written.
After the first 100 pages the subtle surprises start becoming full-blown shockers. You realize you're in for something awesome.
The convoluted plot and the superb structure are amazing.
The revelations will leave you short of breath.
Then, there's the inquiry.....
All this is a pernicious mix leading to deep, buried secrets and resentments, guilt trips, shame, obsession, blackmail and power games.
The ending is sublime.
In short, it's a savory taste of high-tension goodness.
Outstanding!
This was an ARC giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2018
I enjoyed this story and the different perspectives it offered of the aftermath of a plane accident in a small country town. Scott's story revolves around three normally flawed women, their friendships and their relationship with their hometown. She cleverly drew out the characters' different personalities, their issues, their histories and their issues.
I was going to give it four stars, however I felt that the ending was a bit sloppy in lots of ways in terms of expression and also character development. I couldn't help but think that the way in which the character Miranda was 'wrapped up' was a bit too neat. I think it would have been a stronger story if Miranda found herself pregnant and without her business, or alternatively not pregnant and implementing her strategy to keep her business. To have both seemed a bit too neat.
Also, the constant switching of perspectives employed towards the end was just a bit much. Just as you got into the swing of one voice, you were swapping towards another. This sudden increase in pace detracted from the good pacing of the story up till then.
So up to the last few chapters I would say it was a really good book, not flawless. After reading them I would say it was only good.
I was going to give it four stars, however I felt that the ending was a bit sloppy in lots of ways in terms of expression and also character development. I couldn't help but think that the way in which the character Miranda was 'wrapped up' was a bit too neat. I think it would have been a stronger story if Miranda found herself pregnant and without her business, or alternatively not pregnant and implementing her strategy to keep her business. To have both seemed a bit too neat.
Also, the constant switching of perspectives employed towards the end was just a bit much. Just as you got into the swing of one voice, you were swapping towards another. This sudden increase in pace detracted from the good pacing of the story up till then.
So up to the last few chapters I would say it was a really good book, not flawless. After reading them I would say it was only good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2020
Not Bad People
Awful people, really, really awful people.
Glad it's over.
Just wanted to see what happened to all the awful people in the end, shouldn't have bothered.
I was certainly hoping for better.
Awful people, really, really awful people.
Glad it's over.
Just wanted to see what happened to all the awful people in the end, shouldn't have bothered.
I was certainly hoping for better.
March 1, 2019
I was borrowing a copy but it was so good I went and bought my own - and a copy to give to my sister. Yes, it’s that good.
February 19, 2021
2.5 ... I should have been warned the recommendation on the cover says ...”slow burning “ ... another attempt at a Moriarty style type book ..but this was about 250 pages too long and was just a meandering plot
April 13, 2019
I love when I start a book with no expectations about it and come out just loving the book. That is what happened to me with author, Brandy Scott's debut novel Not Bad People. This book did not feel or read like a "debut" novel but a novel from a seasoned author.
In the beginning, when Aimee, Melinda, and Lou were hanging out writing their wishes for a new year to send off in the lantern ceremony, I was not a fan of any of the three women. However, shortly after I was a little ways into the story, I actually found myself warming up and liking the women.
Actually, it is kind of funny as Aimee may have been the only one that was really concerned about the victims of the plane crash and that it was her, Melinda and Lou's fault but she was the one that I would put last out of the three women. It was Melinda that I loved the most. She was at a major crossroads in her life and it seemed that everyone just laughed Melinda off. Finally, there is Lou. She too was ready for a change and to branch out in her life but than "life" had other plans for her.
This is a slow burn book. The pacing Is slow and steady to get to the conclusion. Yet, it is made possible because of the three women. Due to the fact that I was drawn to the characters really made me enjoy reading this book. You have to make sure that Not Bad People by Brandy Scott is in your shopping cart.
In the beginning, when Aimee, Melinda, and Lou were hanging out writing their wishes for a new year to send off in the lantern ceremony, I was not a fan of any of the three women. However, shortly after I was a little ways into the story, I actually found myself warming up and liking the women.
Actually, it is kind of funny as Aimee may have been the only one that was really concerned about the victims of the plane crash and that it was her, Melinda and Lou's fault but she was the one that I would put last out of the three women. It was Melinda that I loved the most. She was at a major crossroads in her life and it seemed that everyone just laughed Melinda off. Finally, there is Lou. She too was ready for a change and to branch out in her life but than "life" had other plans for her.
This is a slow burn book. The pacing Is slow and steady to get to the conclusion. Yet, it is made possible because of the three women. Due to the fact that I was drawn to the characters really made me enjoy reading this book. You have to make sure that Not Bad People by Brandy Scott is in your shopping cart.
August 2, 2018
Look, I gotta be completely honest, this isn’t my type of book.
But that said Brandy is such a talent that I was totally gripped by this domestic ripper of a story. Yes, it’s for the Moriarty crowd, for those that love the hot trend right now, but it’s charming and funny, sophisticated and poignant, a new voice in this genre.
The central intrigue is what exactly happened when a light airplane goes down in a small town and kills a young man – who is to blame? Our three main characters, Aimee, Melinda and Lou, have enough troubles of their own without having to worry about whether they accidentally brought the plane down.
It touches on so many aspects of life, and I just love how it all ties into the title. Aimee, Melinda and Lou aren't bad people - but they don't exactly do good things. All of them are living with baggage, all of them are trying to make the most of their lives, all of them have THE BEST of intentions. But the road to hell is, of course, paved with good intentions. This is a pacey small town novel with so much conflict and revelations you won't be able to put it down - guaranteed.
But that said Brandy is such a talent that I was totally gripped by this domestic ripper of a story. Yes, it’s for the Moriarty crowd, for those that love the hot trend right now, but it’s charming and funny, sophisticated and poignant, a new voice in this genre.
The central intrigue is what exactly happened when a light airplane goes down in a small town and kills a young man – who is to blame? Our three main characters, Aimee, Melinda and Lou, have enough troubles of their own without having to worry about whether they accidentally brought the plane down.
It touches on so many aspects of life, and I just love how it all ties into the title. Aimee, Melinda and Lou aren't bad people - but they don't exactly do good things. All of them are living with baggage, all of them are trying to make the most of their lives, all of them have THE BEST of intentions. But the road to hell is, of course, paved with good intentions. This is a pacey small town novel with so much conflict and revelations you won't be able to put it down - guaranteed.
March 2, 2019
I loved this book! Before reading it, I heard a few people compare it to Liane Moriarty’s work, and I can see why. It has a similar style, with relatable Australian female lead characters. But personally I’d say it’s in a league of it’s own!
The story is primarily told from 3 different female view points, and I was able to relate to every one of them in a different way. There’s the single ambitious career woman, the poor single mum, and the comfortable house wife.
The writing is also full of so much wit and humour; there were a few laugh out loud moments. This book seems to balance it’s different themes so superbly - at times you feel the grief, and then you can relate to the women’s struggles, and then suddenly you’re laughing again.
It also wasn’t predictable at all. Towards the end, I was so keen to finish I was trying to steal any minute I could during my day to find out what happens. It was a little slow in the first half (although still enjoyable to read with the sometimes emotional and sometimes hilarious writing), but by the halfway point I was well and truly hooked.
I look forward to seeing what else this new Australian author has to offer!
The story is primarily told from 3 different female view points, and I was able to relate to every one of them in a different way. There’s the single ambitious career woman, the poor single mum, and the comfortable house wife.
The writing is also full of so much wit and humour; there were a few laugh out loud moments. This book seems to balance it’s different themes so superbly - at times you feel the grief, and then you can relate to the women’s struggles, and then suddenly you’re laughing again.
It also wasn’t predictable at all. Towards the end, I was so keen to finish I was trying to steal any minute I could during my day to find out what happens. It was a little slow in the first half (although still enjoyable to read with the sometimes emotional and sometimes hilarious writing), but by the halfway point I was well and truly hooked.
I look forward to seeing what else this new Australian author has to offer!
September 9, 2023
For me this book began a little slow but I enjoyed how it showed different ways in dealing with the consequences from a night of celebrating.
Specially how far your loved ones might go to prevent you from acting irrationally.
And that’s when the title really hits you as a reader and experience the “oh” moment.
Are they right to act this way and are they in fact “not bad people” ?
Specially how far your loved ones might go to prevent you from acting irrationally.
And that’s when the title really hits you as a reader and experience the “oh” moment.
Are they right to act this way and are they in fact “not bad people” ?
August 14, 2019
I felt like too much happened. Some parts dragged and others went by too quickly or left unattended. If I could sum it up in a sentence, I felt like I was reading an overly dramatic soap opera.
January 7, 2019
Because I have known Brandy Scott for many years both professionally and personally, I was extremely excited as well as a tiny bit trepidatious to read her first book - would it be as good as I had hoped?
The answer is a resounding YES -- 'Not Bad People' is a gripping and ripping new novel. The characters are fully formed and engaging... there is tremendous suspense that builds throughout the narrative, and I loved the supporting characters, especially Sharna at the post office. The day-to-day issues that the three protagonists face in their personal and professional lives are relatable and compelling while the impending resolution around the major plot twist (mentioned in the book's blurb) keeps you turning pages through the night.
Set in Australia, 'Not Bad People' is accessible for readers of all backgrounds while including the charm of its specific location and population; it made me want to jump on a flight to experience the small-town background in which it's featured (including the wineries.)
The themes behind 'Not Bad People' - personal accountability, family dynamics, longstanding friendships - and how they are explored and resolved will stay with you after you finish the book. It's a highly recommended new piece of fiction; given the success of recent adaptations for the screen, I hope someone is clever enough to make a film or TV series of 'Not Bad People.'
The answer is a resounding YES -- 'Not Bad People' is a gripping and ripping new novel. The characters are fully formed and engaging... there is tremendous suspense that builds throughout the narrative, and I loved the supporting characters, especially Sharna at the post office. The day-to-day issues that the three protagonists face in their personal and professional lives are relatable and compelling while the impending resolution around the major plot twist (mentioned in the book's blurb) keeps you turning pages through the night.
Set in Australia, 'Not Bad People' is accessible for readers of all backgrounds while including the charm of its specific location and population; it made me want to jump on a flight to experience the small-town background in which it's featured (including the wineries.)
The themes behind 'Not Bad People' - personal accountability, family dynamics, longstanding friendships - and how they are explored and resolved will stay with you after you finish the book. It's a highly recommended new piece of fiction; given the success of recent adaptations for the screen, I hope someone is clever enough to make a film or TV series of 'Not Bad People.'
March 12, 2019
I'm going to start by saying that quite simply Brandy Scott is one to watch. This is a smacker of a debut, with a fabulous cast of characters and a rollercoaster plot line that keeps you guessing until the end.
Meet three friends: Melina, Aimee and Lou. They have known each other since forever, but how well do they really know each other, and how do the repercussions of one decision test the very core of their friendship.
Brandy Scott has created a wonderful world in NOT BAD PEOPLE, a seemingly perfect tight knit community but it doesn't take long the cracks forms and erupt as one accident shocks the everyone. Discussing themes of parenthood, friendship and the balancing act of modern life all within a plot line that twists and turns at every level, this is definitely a novel to pick up now. It leads you, secrets and lies hiding just out of view, but keep going - even when the tension slightly drops just before the end – as you race towards a conclusion that leaves you gasping. All I can say is this is a goodie.
Meet three friends: Melina, Aimee and Lou. They have known each other since forever, but how well do they really know each other, and how do the repercussions of one decision test the very core of their friendship.
Brandy Scott has created a wonderful world in NOT BAD PEOPLE, a seemingly perfect tight knit community but it doesn't take long the cracks forms and erupt as one accident shocks the everyone. Discussing themes of parenthood, friendship and the balancing act of modern life all within a plot line that twists and turns at every level, this is definitely a novel to pick up now. It leads you, secrets and lies hiding just out of view, but keep going - even when the tension slightly drops just before the end – as you race towards a conclusion that leaves you gasping. All I can say is this is a goodie.
January 6, 2019
A fabulous and compelling novel whose characters and intricate plot had me hooked from the start. Brandy Scott's unique style, which is concise and witty, makes her writing so clever, so readable. I loved the undertones of sarcastic wit and a dry sense of humour. Throughout this unpredictable yet believable tale, the author approaches day-to-day challenges and triumphs with empathy for and affinity with her characters. This author is being compared to Liane Moriaty (whose books I adore too) and I can see why. However, I think the talented Brandy Scott is in a league of her own. For me, this book was a true reading highlight of 2018. Essential for your "must read" list of 2019! Can't wait for her next one...
April 17, 2019
This was one of those books that you start reading and keep coming back to, because the characters start to feel like your friends. You have to know what's going to happen to them. There are also many twists and turns, and dark moments, where the characters have to question themselves and the decisions they've made in life, which makes it highly realistic. If you like Liane Moriarty, this is the book for you!
June 22, 2020
3.5 rounded up to 4. Everyone has secrets, even life long friends in their small town. The successful one, the teen mother one, the housewifeandmother one - all have a history together, a mostly easy rapport, until a related/unrelated incident exposes the cracks in their relationship and in their lives. Not a difficult read, but held my interest.
June 22, 2019
Light chic lit.
November 8, 2025
There’s slow burn, and then there’s watching paint dry while the paint questions the point of existence. “Not Bad People” falls squarely in that camp. It’s not awful, just far too long, like someone padded out a decent 280-page story into a 550-page endurance test.
The setup’s actually pretty good: three old friends, a stupid New Year’s stunt with paper lanterns, a crash, guilt, shame and small-town gossip swirling through it all. That’s solid life-lit material. Scott nails the bones of it. Then it just... keeps going. Christ, it drags. Everyone calls it a “slow burn”, but this one’s more treacle than flame. I kept putting it down, and every time I picked it up again, I’d forget where I was.
Lou’s the heart of it, no question. Her story about family baggage, guilt, and trying to untangle her own past from her daughter’s future is well done. She’s the one I cared about. The others though - Melinda, Aimee - they just didn’t land. Melinda grew on me a bit, but Aimee grated, and I never understood why the three of them were mates in the first place. For women with years of supposed history, they turn on each other the second the wind changes.
The blokes are even worse. Every one of them feels like a cardboard cut-out. The pilot (and I can’t even remember his name) takes up half the book, but we never actually get to know him. We just get told things about his life like it’s a job interview.
Scott clearly gets people though. She’s got a sharp eye for how shame and pride shape us, how guilt festers, how good intentions curdle under pressure. The central moral question - what it means to be “not bad people” - is a good one. Watching half-decent folks fall apart under the weight of blame and guilt is compelling stuff. When the story finally picks up pace in the last hundred pages, it almost redeems itself. For a while there, it’s properly tense.
Still, it didn’t stick. The town never came alive, the friendships felt thin, and for all its talk of honesty and redemption, it left me cold. Two and a half stars. Decent bones, good ideas, but too bloody slow for its own good.
The setup’s actually pretty good: three old friends, a stupid New Year’s stunt with paper lanterns, a crash, guilt, shame and small-town gossip swirling through it all. That’s solid life-lit material. Scott nails the bones of it. Then it just... keeps going. Christ, it drags. Everyone calls it a “slow burn”, but this one’s more treacle than flame. I kept putting it down, and every time I picked it up again, I’d forget where I was.
Lou’s the heart of it, no question. Her story about family baggage, guilt, and trying to untangle her own past from her daughter’s future is well done. She’s the one I cared about. The others though - Melinda, Aimee - they just didn’t land. Melinda grew on me a bit, but Aimee grated, and I never understood why the three of them were mates in the first place. For women with years of supposed history, they turn on each other the second the wind changes.
The blokes are even worse. Every one of them feels like a cardboard cut-out. The pilot (and I can’t even remember his name) takes up half the book, but we never actually get to know him. We just get told things about his life like it’s a job interview.
Scott clearly gets people though. She’s got a sharp eye for how shame and pride shape us, how guilt festers, how good intentions curdle under pressure. The central moral question - what it means to be “not bad people” - is a good one. Watching half-decent folks fall apart under the weight of blame and guilt is compelling stuff. When the story finally picks up pace in the last hundred pages, it almost redeems itself. For a while there, it’s properly tense.
Still, it didn’t stick. The town never came alive, the friendships felt thin, and for all its talk of honesty and redemption, it left me cold. Two and a half stars. Decent bones, good ideas, but too bloody slow for its own good.
June 24, 2023
Really loved this book af. Couldn't put it down. Nice narration — straight to the point and without too many details. Interesting from the start and I didn't have to force myself to read it till I got to the exciting part.
Loved the characters — three QUEENS af and really interesting premise. I like reading about normal people living normal lives with normal stuff going on. And yet, it didn't feel as boring as one might have thought because everything that the characters felt were so real. The loneliness, the pain, the bitterness and resentment. How we humans are truly alone. It's portrayed resentment and bitterness so well, I really felt it gosh. While I've never had to face similar situations as the characters, I was still able to relate to all of them somehow and I think that's the beauty of the book. Kudos to the author!
I liked how it showed some problems that women tend to face, the sexism of this "modern" world. Through Melinda, through Lou, through Aimee.
Spoilers
Loved the characters — three QUEENS af and really interesting premise. I like reading about normal people living normal lives with normal stuff going on. And yet, it didn't feel as boring as one might have thought because everything that the characters felt were so real. The loneliness, the pain, the bitterness and resentment. How we humans are truly alone. It's portrayed resentment and bitterness so well, I really felt it gosh. While I've never had to face similar situations as the characters, I was still able to relate to all of them somehow and I think that's the beauty of the book. Kudos to the author!
I liked how it showed some problems that women tend to face, the sexism of this "modern" world. Through Melinda, through Lou, through Aimee.
Spoilers
June 23, 2019
This was great! It actually exceeded my expectations. To start with I wasn’t too sure but it picked up fairly early and then my audiobook loan expired and I had to take an annoying break! I was glad when it came back in.
It’s funny that my most recent two reads were both set in small towns. I’m from and still live in my small town so I related a lot to Not Bad People. Especially because it’s Australian, I loved the australianisms in the book!
Scott did a good job of building authentic characters. I really grew attached to Amy, Melinda and Lou over this book, which was actually a lot longer than I realized! They were realistic, endearing but naturally flawed characters.
Initially I thought Amy’s lantern worries were so silly but it did become more serious to me as the book went on. There were lots of different storylines going on which was good, it’s nice to have a few different things happening once you’re introduced to a cast of characters! This was good on audio too, aside from Amy coming across a little whiney I found the narration quite good! It’s nice to have an Aussie accent every now and then!
It’s funny that my most recent two reads were both set in small towns. I’m from and still live in my small town so I related a lot to Not Bad People. Especially because it’s Australian, I loved the australianisms in the book!
Scott did a good job of building authentic characters. I really grew attached to Amy, Melinda and Lou over this book, which was actually a lot longer than I realized! They were realistic, endearing but naturally flawed characters.
Initially I thought Amy’s lantern worries were so silly but it did become more serious to me as the book went on. There were lots of different storylines going on which was good, it’s nice to have a few different things happening once you’re introduced to a cast of characters! This was good on audio too, aside from Amy coming across a little whiney I found the narration quite good! It’s nice to have an Aussie accent every now and then!
February 25, 2019
On New Year’s Eve three friends - Melinda, Aimee and Lou - let three lanterns filled with resolutions for the year to come. After they float off, there’s a bright flare in the distance. Fireworks are happening, so the ladies think nothing of it. The next day, newspapers report a plane crash with two victims, a father and his young son. Were their lanterns responsible for the tragic accident? Or was something more sinister happening? Aimee thinks they are, Melinda won’t accept it, and Lou has problems of her own. As the women battle with the truth, their lives with unfurl before them.
An absolutely brilliant book! It was a release I was very excited about and I was not left disappointed. Usually the endings of these sorts of books are easy to pick up from early on. This one, however, was not. The best part about the book was how the tension seemed to build throughout. There was no point where I wanted to put it down because I was sick of the waffle in the middle. It constantly kept you on your toes, adding more drama into the mix - but real life drama, not the over the top drama you get sick off. You get sucked into each of the ladies lives, not wanting their story to end, all while hearing snippet’s of what the father is going through post crash. So well written! Would highly recommend!
*ARC received through Net Gallery*
An absolutely brilliant book! It was a release I was very excited about and I was not left disappointed. Usually the endings of these sorts of books are easy to pick up from early on. This one, however, was not. The best part about the book was how the tension seemed to build throughout. There was no point where I wanted to put it down because I was sick of the waffle in the middle. It constantly kept you on your toes, adding more drama into the mix - but real life drama, not the over the top drama you get sick off. You get sucked into each of the ladies lives, not wanting their story to end, all while hearing snippet’s of what the father is going through post crash. So well written! Would highly recommend!
*ARC received through Net Gallery*
October 4, 2019
Find this under "thriller." That's what it says when you look it up. OK, but most of the time while I read it I kept thinking of meringue. Piled-high meringue. And it was yummy. Some twists, only a couple that I was ahead of the game on. Some almost-unbelievable coincidences but this is set in a small town, after all. Some fairly big plot points that were left pretty much dangling--worth quibbling about? Meh. (It was hinted that the characters were about to resolve them all.) In the end I did enjoy reading this. If Liane Moriarty is your cup of tea, then you'll certainly enjoy this one by Brandy Scott as much as I did.
September 19, 2024
I randomly came across this book at the library and I’m glad I picked it up. It’s 550 pages and took me a good few weeks to get through but I enjoyed in the whole time. We follow 3 lifelong friends in their 40s after they release paper lanterns on New Years Eve and later find out about a plane crash that they may or may not have caused. The 3 women are very different but all very relatable and I loved learning so much of their backstories and personality traits. Really good for a debut novel!
August 19, 2019
I enjoyed the book - an easy read, probably a fairly predictable finish
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