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Nothing Bad Happens Here
"She looked away from his face and took in the clear spring night, full of stars. Her last thoughts were of her mother. Would she finally care, when one day they found her body, and a policeman came knocking at her door?"The body of missing tourist Bethany Haliwell is found in the small Coromandel town of Castle Bay, where nothing bad ever happens. News crews and journalists from all over the country descend on the small seaside town as old secrets are dragged up and gossip is taken as gospel.Among them is Miller Hatcher, a journalist battling her own demons, who arrives intent on gaining a promotion by covering the grisly murder. Following an anonymous tip, Miller begins to unravel the mystery of the small town. And when another woman goes missing, Miller finds herself getting closer to the truth. But at what cost?
300 pages, Paperback
First published August 27, 2017
About the author
Nikki Crutchley
13 books85 followersAfter seven years of working as a librarian in New Zealand and overseas, Nikki now works as a freelance proofreader and copy editor. She lives in the small Waikato town of Cambridge in New Zealand with her husband and two girls.
Nikki has been writing on and off her whole life and before she turned to crime writing had success in flash fiction. She has been published in 'Bonsai: Best Small Fictions from Aotearoa New Zealand', and 'Fresh Ink' anthologies.
Crime/thriller/mystery novels are her passion. 'Nothing Bad Happens Here', her first novel, is set on the Coromandel Coast of New Zealand. It was a finalist in the 2018 Ngaio Marsh Award for best first novel.
Nikki's second book, 'No One Can Hear You', was long-listed for the Ngaio Marsh Award for best novel in 2019.
Nikki's third book, The Murder Club, the second in the Miller Hatcher series, is out September 2020.
Nikki has been writing on and off her whole life and before she turned to crime writing had success in flash fiction. She has been published in 'Bonsai: Best Small Fictions from Aotearoa New Zealand', and 'Fresh Ink' anthologies.
Crime/thriller/mystery novels are her passion. 'Nothing Bad Happens Here', her first novel, is set on the Coromandel Coast of New Zealand. It was a finalist in the 2018 Ngaio Marsh Award for best first novel.
Nikki's second book, 'No One Can Hear You', was long-listed for the Ngaio Marsh Award for best novel in 2019.
Nikki's third book, The Murder Club, the second in the Miller Hatcher series, is out September 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 4, 2018
5☆ Eerie Crime Thriller, you won't forget!
Nothing bad happens here, is a great title.
Of course we have all read or seen films where a quiet little town nothing happens but then turns out a serial killer is on the loose. Love these ones as you never know what to expect!
Well expect alot, this is Nikki Crutchley debut book and wow it's good!
When a female backpacker Bethany goes missing then turns up dead. In a town where nothing happens, it's now big big news.
Miller is amonst the journalists who turn up to do a piece on the killing.
I liked Miller, journalists in stories can go either way annoying or likeable. Miller was intriguing. She has her flaws, she's an alcoholic looking to better herself and what better way then with a big story!
The town's eerie atmosphere kind of reminded me of Twin Peaks. Where nothing happens yet behind the scenes everything is happening.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this crime mystery/ thriller. It draws you in and takes a hold. Once you start reading you are intrigued as to what will happen next as lil hints and twists keep arising.
It's suspenseful, chilling, eerie, memorable characters, plenty of secrets and twists.
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy crime thrillers with an eerie atmosphere.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review and More Info is on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Nothing bad happens here, is a great title.
Of course we have all read or seen films where a quiet little town nothing happens but then turns out a serial killer is on the loose. Love these ones as you never know what to expect!
Well expect alot, this is Nikki Crutchley debut book and wow it's good!
When a female backpacker Bethany goes missing then turns up dead. In a town where nothing happens, it's now big big news.
Miller is amonst the journalists who turn up to do a piece on the killing.
I liked Miller, journalists in stories can go either way annoying or likeable. Miller was intriguing. She has her flaws, she's an alcoholic looking to better herself and what better way then with a big story!
The town's eerie atmosphere kind of reminded me of Twin Peaks. Where nothing happens yet behind the scenes everything is happening.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this crime mystery/ thriller. It draws you in and takes a hold. Once you start reading you are intrigued as to what will happen next as lil hints and twists keep arising.
It's suspenseful, chilling, eerie, memorable characters, plenty of secrets and twists.
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy crime thrillers with an eerie atmosphere.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review and More Info is on my blog website:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
December 4, 2017
I forgot NOTHING BAD HAPPENS HERE was a debut novel as you'd never know it from reading it. Set in the sort of small town in New Zealand that caters mostly to the summer tourist trade, journalist Miller Hatcher is sent there when the body of a tourist who went missing a while ago is discovered. Her and just about every other journalist in the country creating a frenetic, odd atmosphere in a town which should be quiet, safe, nondescript at that time of the year.
It was an odd disappearance really - Bethany was last seen in a local hotel, before quietly vanishing. Nobody saw anything, or has any clues, although local police never forgot. When her body is eventually discovered deep in the surrounding forest, the media scrambles, but with nothing much to go on, the story quickly peters out. But Hatcher was late arriving in town, and finds herself staying at an outlying retreat, closer to the forest, populated by strangers and locals. Working, as she does for a monthly magazine rather than a newspaper, she's got more leeway to meet longer deadlines, so she's after a hearts and minds type of article. A good job might be the key to a promotion, and it might also be the thing that Hatcher requires to get her own life back on track. She wouldn't have expected the type of woman who runs the retreat she's staying at though, nor the fellow guests, or the handyman, certainly not the things that the surrounding forest starts to reveal.
Needless to say we're talking a damaged central character, an odd, closed room type of town, and a hefty dose of an odd supporting cast. Balanced well against a great police character - the genuinely likeable character in the mix, and some decent, and caring behaviour from some people. You can't help but wish Bethany had caught some of the good, but her back story is as sad as her eventual demise.
A combination of solid plot, with plenty of hints dotted along the way to a final twist that works well, NOTHING BAD HAPPENS HERE is very addictive reading. Hatcher is undoubtedly a flawed character, frequently almost pathetic, but there's enough in her back story, and the way her problems are presented to make her understandable, if not completely sympathetic, and as a result absolutely real. Sergeant Kahu Parata, the local cop is the balance of straight up versus Hatcher's edgy, he's a decent sort of a bloke, personally and professionally. All of the supporting cast contribute to understanding the place, the people, and the sensibility of somewhere that's struggling with the combination of natural beauty and human cruelty. Despite that beauty, there is always the sense of a dark place, outside the edges of the town. Dense forest, brooding, with goodness knows what lurking. Using the sense of menace that place creates, the plot has pace, and more than enough spark to keep the reader guessing right to the final twist.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
It was an odd disappearance really - Bethany was last seen in a local hotel, before quietly vanishing. Nobody saw anything, or has any clues, although local police never forgot. When her body is eventually discovered deep in the surrounding forest, the media scrambles, but with nothing much to go on, the story quickly peters out. But Hatcher was late arriving in town, and finds herself staying at an outlying retreat, closer to the forest, populated by strangers and locals. Working, as she does for a monthly magazine rather than a newspaper, she's got more leeway to meet longer deadlines, so she's after a hearts and minds type of article. A good job might be the key to a promotion, and it might also be the thing that Hatcher requires to get her own life back on track. She wouldn't have expected the type of woman who runs the retreat she's staying at though, nor the fellow guests, or the handyman, certainly not the things that the surrounding forest starts to reveal.
Needless to say we're talking a damaged central character, an odd, closed room type of town, and a hefty dose of an odd supporting cast. Balanced well against a great police character - the genuinely likeable character in the mix, and some decent, and caring behaviour from some people. You can't help but wish Bethany had caught some of the good, but her back story is as sad as her eventual demise.
A combination of solid plot, with plenty of hints dotted along the way to a final twist that works well, NOTHING BAD HAPPENS HERE is very addictive reading. Hatcher is undoubtedly a flawed character, frequently almost pathetic, but there's enough in her back story, and the way her problems are presented to make her understandable, if not completely sympathetic, and as a result absolutely real. Sergeant Kahu Parata, the local cop is the balance of straight up versus Hatcher's edgy, he's a decent sort of a bloke, personally and professionally. All of the supporting cast contribute to understanding the place, the people, and the sensibility of somewhere that's struggling with the combination of natural beauty and human cruelty. Despite that beauty, there is always the sense of a dark place, outside the edges of the town. Dense forest, brooding, with goodness knows what lurking. Using the sense of menace that place creates, the plot has pace, and more than enough spark to keep the reader guessing right to the final twist.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
February 17, 2018
Well, that was a twist I wasn't expecting!
As someone who holidays in the Coromandel, I could easily visualise the setting of this book - serene, beachy, tatty pine plantations, walking tracks - old and new, and then I realised it really is the perfect place to hide a body or two or three or...
It was refreshing to see a cast of flawed characters, instead of your stock standard saves the world type heroine (or hero). Life isn't always pretty, and life in a small town can be petty, which the author captures very well here. Bad things do happen, and parts of the book read like you're watching a train approaching a washout bridge. If only you could warn the characters that something bad IS about to happen here.
A great first thriller from Nikki Crutchley, and I look forward to reading more from her. I just don't think I'll be walking any Coromandel tracks by myself in the foreseeable future.
As someone who holidays in the Coromandel, I could easily visualise the setting of this book - serene, beachy, tatty pine plantations, walking tracks - old and new, and then I realised it really is the perfect place to hide a body or two or three or...
It was refreshing to see a cast of flawed characters, instead of your stock standard saves the world type heroine (or hero). Life isn't always pretty, and life in a small town can be petty, which the author captures very well here. Bad things do happen, and parts of the book read like you're watching a train approaching a washout bridge. If only you could warn the characters that something bad IS about to happen here.
A great first thriller from Nikki Crutchley, and I look forward to reading more from her. I just don't think I'll be walking any Coromandel tracks by myself in the foreseeable future.
September 7, 2017
This book is a great read. Not too heavy and hooks you in quickly. Many nights where I should've stopped but thought "just one more chapter". Will appeal to a broad audience and some nice touches for anyone who knows anything about the Coromandel region. Nothing Bad Happens Here will make great beach or plane reading over the summer holidays and a good Christmas present option.
March 2, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
This was an excellent book and I was really surprised when I read that it was the author's debut!
It is one of those books that grabs you straight away and hooks you in until the end. It was a very easy read with great characters and a well thought out steady plot.
Five stars from me - very highly recommended!!
This was an excellent book and I was really surprised when I read that it was the author's debut!
It is one of those books that grabs you straight away and hooks you in until the end. It was a very easy read with great characters and a well thought out steady plot.
Five stars from me - very highly recommended!!
September 26, 2017
Nikki Crutchley 's first novel is a fantastic read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Set in a small town in New Zealand that caters to the tourist trade during the summer months, the story follows journalist Miller Hatcher after the grisly remains of a missing tourist are discovered. Bethany Haliwell had been missing for several months by the time her body is found. While other journalists are under pressure to deliver a new story each day, Miller has time before her monthly magazine is published. If she can write an article that captures the public's hearts and minds, she may just get the promotion she is desperate for. But Miller has problems of her own that are getting in the way of her job.
Nikki Crutchley's writing weaves a wonderful tale. Succinct, imaginative and gripping. I picked the book up and didn't put it down again until I had finished. Not only is her writing good, but her characterisation is excellent. It felt like I could walk down the road and meet any of those people around my own town.
Like all good crime novels there is a twist in the tale and honestly, I didn't even suspect it until it was almost on top of me. There are little hints that I noticed after the big reveal, but hadn't picked up on ahead of time. I could happily read this one again and I think I would pick up new things that I hadn't quite noticed the first time round.
I definitely recommend this one for fans of crime fiction and drama. Well worth a read, guys.
I received it - signed (Thank you to Nikki Crutchley for that!) - from a Goodreads giveaway and while I am extremely grateful for that, it doesn't influence my review at all.
Nikki Crutchley's writing weaves a wonderful tale. Succinct, imaginative and gripping. I picked the book up and didn't put it down again until I had finished. Not only is her writing good, but her characterisation is excellent. It felt like I could walk down the road and meet any of those people around my own town.
Like all good crime novels there is a twist in the tale and honestly, I didn't even suspect it until it was almost on top of me. There are little hints that I noticed after the big reveal, but hadn't picked up on ahead of time. I could happily read this one again and I think I would pick up new things that I hadn't quite noticed the first time round.
I definitely recommend this one for fans of crime fiction and drama. Well worth a read, guys.
I received it - signed (Thank you to Nikki Crutchley for that!) - from a Goodreads giveaway and while I am extremely grateful for that, it doesn't influence my review at all.
December 4, 2017
This book introduces you to Miller Hatcher, a young journalist with alcohol issues. Her intent is to gain a promotion by covering the murder of Bethany Haliwell.
With Nothing Bad Happens Here, Nikki Crutchley has created a gripping as well as chilling story with a plot that keeps its promises. It is a plot that kept me glued to my eReader, drawing me very close to Miller, and to Kahu. Nikki Crutchley created a well elaborated suspense story with a complex and likable heroine - as well as a colourful variety of further important characters. Miller and the others are believable, complemented by the aptly written plot. There is a lot more to the story than simply good versus bad; there are some insights in the human behaviour that will make you wonder. It is a highly enjoyable read with authentic characters, interesting turns, and a great flow. A memorable book to read again, written by a new author to watch out for!
This is a book for you if you like intriguing suspense, feisty heroines, believable characters, and if you appreciate cleverly elaborated stories.
Recommended!
With Nothing Bad Happens Here, Nikki Crutchley has created a gripping as well as chilling story with a plot that keeps its promises. It is a plot that kept me glued to my eReader, drawing me very close to Miller, and to Kahu. Nikki Crutchley created a well elaborated suspense story with a complex and likable heroine - as well as a colourful variety of further important characters. Miller and the others are believable, complemented by the aptly written plot. There is a lot more to the story than simply good versus bad; there are some insights in the human behaviour that will make you wonder. It is a highly enjoyable read with authentic characters, interesting turns, and a great flow. A memorable book to read again, written by a new author to watch out for!
This is a book for you if you like intriguing suspense, feisty heroines, believable characters, and if you appreciate cleverly elaborated stories.
Recommended!
February 1, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised with this book, I don't think I have ever actually read anything crime based. I didn't know what to expect, if I'd like it or not but it was actually alright!
Near the end I almost found myself craving to finish it, find out what who was this murderer in our little coastal town. I did feel like near the end you almost KNEW who it was, you could start predicting straight away. I did feel the need to get a bit more of a background on old Bob too, but I like the twinge of the old Maori fulla living out in the bush, pig hunting.
But it was good, it wasn't too full on, an enjoyable and easy read. Makes me think I might need to start exploring this genre a little more.
Near the end I almost found myself craving to finish it, find out what who was this murderer in our little coastal town. I did feel like near the end you almost KNEW who it was, you could start predicting straight away. I did feel the need to get a bit more of a background on old Bob too, but I like the twinge of the old Maori fulla living out in the bush, pig hunting.
But it was good, it wasn't too full on, an enjoyable and easy read. Makes me think I might need to start exploring this genre a little more.
September 4, 2017
What a fabulous read! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the last few chapters I could not put it down. I would love to find out more about some of the characters. Another book maybe????? Five stars!
November 13, 2017
I liked this book a lot! Totally convinced by the nasty small town vibe - having lived in a few it felt very authentic to me. Interesting flawed characters & I very much hope to see Miller return to suss out more crime. What a world we live in - paradise means nothing!
August 31, 2017
Awesome read! Loved the book which has a real dark side to it. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
November 20, 2017
This is Nikki Crutchley’s first book, and for an initial outing, it’s pretty darned good.
The story:
A young tourist disappears from Castle Bay, a small tourist town on the east coast of North Island of New Zealand. When her mangled and mauled body is discovered, news crews and journalists descend on the town. Among them is Miller Hatcher, a young magazine writer battling alcoholism, who is sent there by her editor with the promise of a huge splash in the magazine if she can assemble a strong story for the next month’s edition.
Leading the investigation in Castle Bay is Sgt. Kahu Parata, a Maori and twenty-year member of the local constabulary, at least Detective Nicholson and a team of four arrive. Nicholson pushes Parata aside, leaving him to the day to day running of the station and the odious task of informing the victim’s parents. But Nicholson doesn’t know the town like Parata does. Castle Bay has some dark and well concealed history, but everyone believes nothing bad ever happens there.
Miller finds the only housing available at a wellness retreat a few minutes out of town. It is recommended to her by the wife of the head of the Town Council who herself is going there for a few days’ respite. The wellness center is populated by a small group of women experiencing a variety of crises and has a threatening caretaker who has found needed isolation there after losing his family. A visitor at the wellness center disappeared from there many years previously, but she was never found, and the town’s residents still believes Castle Bay is safe and welcoming.
***
There are several threads to this mystery, which the author unravels deliberately and with excruciating tension, before wrapping them together tidily in a completely unexpected ending. There are also a couple of ‘gotcha’ moments that gave me a chill. The pacing of the story is excellent and keeps you turning pages (or swiping your Kindle, as the case may be). But the best part of the book are the characters, whom Ms. Crutchley details in such precision that you can easily see them in your mind’s eye. What I particularly liked was that each of them had flaws – their imperfections made them three dimensional and human.
Of the two characters from whose point of view them mystery is seen, I found myself liking Parada, who while caring for a gentle wife with an undisclosed but serious illness, mourns the fact they’ve been unable to have children. Miller is less likeable – her need for alcohol interferes with her investigative journalism and causes her to pull her hairs out one by one in disgusting detail. Nevertheless, she is largely fearless and determined to follow events wherever they lead, even when one of the women at the wellness center subsequently disappears.
The town itself – in an exotic locale for those of us not from that part of the world – becomes a character, full of interesting detail, and darkly looming, surrounded by jungle. As Miller investigates the trails leading into the jungle, the black cloud of evil that seems ever-present for most of the book is cloying, palpable, and ominous.
This is a satisfying read and I recommend it – a great first book for this author.
The story:
A young tourist disappears from Castle Bay, a small tourist town on the east coast of North Island of New Zealand. When her mangled and mauled body is discovered, news crews and journalists descend on the town. Among them is Miller Hatcher, a young magazine writer battling alcoholism, who is sent there by her editor with the promise of a huge splash in the magazine if she can assemble a strong story for the next month’s edition.
Leading the investigation in Castle Bay is Sgt. Kahu Parata, a Maori and twenty-year member of the local constabulary, at least Detective Nicholson and a team of four arrive. Nicholson pushes Parata aside, leaving him to the day to day running of the station and the odious task of informing the victim’s parents. But Nicholson doesn’t know the town like Parata does. Castle Bay has some dark and well concealed history, but everyone believes nothing bad ever happens there.
Miller finds the only housing available at a wellness retreat a few minutes out of town. It is recommended to her by the wife of the head of the Town Council who herself is going there for a few days’ respite. The wellness center is populated by a small group of women experiencing a variety of crises and has a threatening caretaker who has found needed isolation there after losing his family. A visitor at the wellness center disappeared from there many years previously, but she was never found, and the town’s residents still believes Castle Bay is safe and welcoming.
***
There are several threads to this mystery, which the author unravels deliberately and with excruciating tension, before wrapping them together tidily in a completely unexpected ending. There are also a couple of ‘gotcha’ moments that gave me a chill. The pacing of the story is excellent and keeps you turning pages (or swiping your Kindle, as the case may be). But the best part of the book are the characters, whom Ms. Crutchley details in such precision that you can easily see them in your mind’s eye. What I particularly liked was that each of them had flaws – their imperfections made them three dimensional and human.
Of the two characters from whose point of view them mystery is seen, I found myself liking Parada, who while caring for a gentle wife with an undisclosed but serious illness, mourns the fact they’ve been unable to have children. Miller is less likeable – her need for alcohol interferes with her investigative journalism and causes her to pull her hairs out one by one in disgusting detail. Nevertheless, she is largely fearless and determined to follow events wherever they lead, even when one of the women at the wellness center subsequently disappears.
The town itself – in an exotic locale for those of us not from that part of the world – becomes a character, full of interesting detail, and darkly looming, surrounded by jungle. As Miller investigates the trails leading into the jungle, the black cloud of evil that seems ever-present for most of the book is cloying, palpable, and ominous.
This is a satisfying read and I recommend it – a great first book for this author.
October 22, 2017
I could not put this book down! I can't wait for Nikki Crutchley's next novel.
October 19, 2017
Great read! Really enjoyed getting to know the main characters and look forward to a sequel. Nikki, knows how to draw the reader in and keeps you guessing.
October 12, 2017
I love thrillers and this book didn’t disappoint! It had an awesome twist and kept me thinking and in suspense the whole time. Just as good as my favourite author Chevy Stevens😍
December 8, 2017
At the beginning of summer, a female backpacker disappears in a small coastal New Zealand town where nothing bad ever happens. Months later, when her body is discovered the town is besieged by journalists. Miller Hatcher is among them, hoping to win promotion with her coverage of the story.
The fictionalised town on the Coromandel peninsula is beautifully drawn with its quiet beaches, rugged cliffs and dense bush, but the claustrophobic feel of the small community where everyone knows everyone else’s business (or thinks they do) permeates and finally overruns the peace and beauty of the setting.
When Miller discovers older crimes and then a second young woman goes missing, Miller is even more determined to solve the mystery.
The novel is told from several different viewpoints, but my favourite is probably Kahu Parata the local policeman. Unlike many other novels where the lead detective spends much of the time fighting their own demons, Parata is a loving husband, caring for his seriously ill wife while still looking after his community.
The local characters are well detailed, and while there are several I wouldn’t want to meet, the author has given the reader human characters with all their idiosyncrasies and irritating habits.
I can definitely recommend Nothing Bad Happens Here.
The fictionalised town on the Coromandel peninsula is beautifully drawn with its quiet beaches, rugged cliffs and dense bush, but the claustrophobic feel of the small community where everyone knows everyone else’s business (or thinks they do) permeates and finally overruns the peace and beauty of the setting.
When Miller discovers older crimes and then a second young woman goes missing, Miller is even more determined to solve the mystery.
The novel is told from several different viewpoints, but my favourite is probably Kahu Parata the local policeman. Unlike many other novels where the lead detective spends much of the time fighting their own demons, Parata is a loving husband, caring for his seriously ill wife while still looking after his community.
The local characters are well detailed, and while there are several I wouldn’t want to meet, the author has given the reader human characters with all their idiosyncrasies and irritating habits.
I can definitely recommend Nothing Bad Happens Here.
October 3, 2017
thoroughly enjoyed this book,keeps you guessing right until the end.Recommended reading.
August 30, 2017
Nothing Bad Happens Here is a thoroughly enjoyable read. I highly recommend it to people who enjoy crime thrillers.
Set on the Coromandel coast, Nikki Crutchley, does a great job of immersing you in a typical small coastal town of New Zealand. The town is overrun with journalists after the discovery of a body and the story focusses on Miller who is a relatable character despite her flaws.
It’s one of those books that is hard to put down where you want to read just one more chapter. I hope there are more books to come featuring Miller.
Set on the Coromandel coast, Nikki Crutchley, does a great job of immersing you in a typical small coastal town of New Zealand. The town is overrun with journalists after the discovery of a body and the story focusses on Miller who is a relatable character despite her flaws.
It’s one of those books that is hard to put down where you want to read just one more chapter. I hope there are more books to come featuring Miller.
December 3, 2017
Nothing Bad Happens Here by Nikki Crutchley has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
"Enjoyable novel in an unlikely setting."
"I found it an easy read quite well written."
"Once in to the story I found it an engaging read and I wanted to find out what was happening in the town where nothing bad happens."
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
"Enjoyable novel in an unlikely setting."
"I found it an easy read quite well written."
"Once in to the story I found it an engaging read and I wanted to find out what was happening in the town where nothing bad happens."
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
November 15, 2017
Received this debut novel as a Goodreads giveaway.
What a wonderful first novel.
Fast paced unexpected twists which kept me up late last night until I finished it.
Would love to read more from nikki Crutchley, thanks to her and goodreads for the opportunity to read this book!!! Highly recommended!!!
What a wonderful first novel.
Fast paced unexpected twists which kept me up late last night until I finished it.
Would love to read more from nikki Crutchley, thanks to her and goodreads for the opportunity to read this book!!! Highly recommended!!!
September 8, 2017
I became totally absorbed in this book while I was reading it, I loved the characters and descriptions and all the subtle details woven into the story. A thriller with lots of layers and beautifully written.
September 16, 2017
This is a great book, keeps you hooked into the story, wanting to know how it ends. Really well written, I read chapter after chapter, reluctantly closing it each night. I liked the Coromandel, NZ setting too. I'm looking forward to Nikki's next book!
March 2, 2018
Nothing Bad Happens here is Nikki Crutchley's debut novel and what a brilliant book to start her writing career. I read the book in a day and it was one of those stories I just couldn't put down.
When the body of missing British tourist, Bethany Halliwell is found in Castle Bay, the usual media circus soon descends on this small seaside town. Among them is journalist, Miller Hatcher who has been instructed to write a feature piece on the murder. Although desperate to gain the promotion she might be in line for, Miller isn't like the other, more mercenary journalists covering the case. She is principled and sympathetic and she has her own troubles - this flawed vulnerability makes her immensely likeable but it also leads her into terrible danger...
Castle Bay, on the Coromandel coast of New Zealand should be a holiday paradise and indeed hundreds of tourists descend on the town during the summer months. They bring with them the usual problems - fights, alcohol, drugs - but as the locals are keen to keep reiterating to Miller, "nothing bad happens here." The residents of Castle Bay are convinced that the murderer must be an outsider but Miller isn't so sure. Her suspicions are raised further when another young woman goes missing. Castle Bay becomes almost another character in the book as its sinister secrets are slowly revealed. This close-knit community isn't as idyllic as it seems. Although some of the townspeople are friendly and welcoming, others have a much darker side and Miller learns some disturbing truths about a few of its residents. There really are some very unsavoury people living in the town and before long the gossip mill is in overdrive. Paradise begins to look tainted, and this blissful holiday location begins to show its cracks.
Nikki Crutchley's characters are absolutely believable, some are intensely unpleasant, a few downright evil and there are others - Sergeant Kahu and his wife, Trina, for example who I would love to hear from again. The small town setting evokes an oppressive claustrophobia and contributes to the sense of foreboding that something is terribly wrong here. As the horrific truth is finally revealed, the action becomes thrillingly tense. Nothing Happens Here is a superbly compelling novel which combines a gripping mystery with characters whose lives I actually became invested in. I'm not sure if Nikki Crutchley intends to write more books featuring Miller Hatcher or to revisit Castle Bay but I would welcome the opportunity to read more about them. Whatever her future plans are, this assured debut marks her as a writer to remember and I'll be looking forward to her next book. In the meantime I highly recommend Nothing Happens Here.
When the body of missing British tourist, Bethany Halliwell is found in Castle Bay, the usual media circus soon descends on this small seaside town. Among them is journalist, Miller Hatcher who has been instructed to write a feature piece on the murder. Although desperate to gain the promotion she might be in line for, Miller isn't like the other, more mercenary journalists covering the case. She is principled and sympathetic and she has her own troubles - this flawed vulnerability makes her immensely likeable but it also leads her into terrible danger...
Castle Bay, on the Coromandel coast of New Zealand should be a holiday paradise and indeed hundreds of tourists descend on the town during the summer months. They bring with them the usual problems - fights, alcohol, drugs - but as the locals are keen to keep reiterating to Miller, "nothing bad happens here." The residents of Castle Bay are convinced that the murderer must be an outsider but Miller isn't so sure. Her suspicions are raised further when another young woman goes missing. Castle Bay becomes almost another character in the book as its sinister secrets are slowly revealed. This close-knit community isn't as idyllic as it seems. Although some of the townspeople are friendly and welcoming, others have a much darker side and Miller learns some disturbing truths about a few of its residents. There really are some very unsavoury people living in the town and before long the gossip mill is in overdrive. Paradise begins to look tainted, and this blissful holiday location begins to show its cracks.
Nikki Crutchley's characters are absolutely believable, some are intensely unpleasant, a few downright evil and there are others - Sergeant Kahu and his wife, Trina, for example who I would love to hear from again. The small town setting evokes an oppressive claustrophobia and contributes to the sense of foreboding that something is terribly wrong here. As the horrific truth is finally revealed, the action becomes thrillingly tense. Nothing Happens Here is a superbly compelling novel which combines a gripping mystery with characters whose lives I actually became invested in. I'm not sure if Nikki Crutchley intends to write more books featuring Miller Hatcher or to revisit Castle Bay but I would welcome the opportunity to read more about them. Whatever her future plans are, this assured debut marks her as a writer to remember and I'll be looking forward to her next book. In the meantime I highly recommend Nothing Happens Here.
March 1, 2018
Sargeant Kahu Parata, Police Officer, enjoys his job in the seaside town of Castle Bay. He has been working there for ten years, a stark contrast to the violent streets of Auckland, where he was previously based. However, Kahu’s family life is causing him some anxiety, his devoted wife is seriously ill and he fears that they won’t be able to start the family they crave.
Miller Hatcher is a journalist desperate to prove herself and get the respect of her editor and colleagues. Her mother recently passed away and Miller is becoming too dependant on alcohol just to get through the day. Miller finds herself at Castle Bay hoping for an international scoop which will secure her employment as a journalist.
As well as stunning coastal walks the town offers more relaxation and meditation in the form of the Haven, a peaceful, idyllic retreat for troubled souls run by the amicable Delta.
When a body is found in the deep valley behind the town, Kahu is the first officer to visit the crime scene, something he is sadly all too familiar with.
Miller arrives at Castle Bay to investigate the murder, the hotels are full so she has no choice but to book into the Haven, ironically a strictly alcohol-free zone.
Here is an extract from the book where Miller and Kahu meet to discuss the case.
‘So has anything like this ever happened before in Castle Bay?’
‘No. We’re not a perfect town, by any means, but to be honest with you, nothing bad ever happens here.’
Miller frowned. It was the third time she’d heard someone say this, and she’d only been in Castle Bay for four days. Did these people seriously believe their town was that safe?
‘It’s a small community where everyone knows everyone. We mostly take care of each other. Summer gets a bit crazy with a lot of out-of-towners coming in; alcohol, drugs, a few assaults here and there, but that’s about it.’
I loved how each character had a deep and detailed backstory, their lives had clever but subtle connections which fascinated me. Some of the locals were shady, suspicious characters, others gossipy and judgmental.
The pace was steady, gathering momentum and reached an exciting and surprising conclusion which had me sitting on the edge of my seat.
An outstanding debut from Nikki Crutchley.
Thank you to Rachel and Nikki for providing me with a copy of Nothing Bad Happens Here in exchange for an honest review.
Miller Hatcher is a journalist desperate to prove herself and get the respect of her editor and colleagues. Her mother recently passed away and Miller is becoming too dependant on alcohol just to get through the day. Miller finds herself at Castle Bay hoping for an international scoop which will secure her employment as a journalist.
As well as stunning coastal walks the town offers more relaxation and meditation in the form of the Haven, a peaceful, idyllic retreat for troubled souls run by the amicable Delta.
When a body is found in the deep valley behind the town, Kahu is the first officer to visit the crime scene, something he is sadly all too familiar with.
Miller arrives at Castle Bay to investigate the murder, the hotels are full so she has no choice but to book into the Haven, ironically a strictly alcohol-free zone.
Here is an extract from the book where Miller and Kahu meet to discuss the case.
‘So has anything like this ever happened before in Castle Bay?’
‘No. We’re not a perfect town, by any means, but to be honest with you, nothing bad ever happens here.’
Miller frowned. It was the third time she’d heard someone say this, and she’d only been in Castle Bay for four days. Did these people seriously believe their town was that safe?
‘It’s a small community where everyone knows everyone. We mostly take care of each other. Summer gets a bit crazy with a lot of out-of-towners coming in; alcohol, drugs, a few assaults here and there, but that’s about it.’
I loved how each character had a deep and detailed backstory, their lives had clever but subtle connections which fascinated me. Some of the locals were shady, suspicious characters, others gossipy and judgmental.
The pace was steady, gathering momentum and reached an exciting and surprising conclusion which had me sitting on the edge of my seat.
An outstanding debut from Nikki Crutchley.
Thank you to Rachel and Nikki for providing me with a copy of Nothing Bad Happens Here in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2018
Nothing Bad Happens Here is Nikki’s first book and my word, what a corker it is. I loved everything about this book – the characters, the writing, the setting – oh yes, definitely the setting. I love books set in Australia and New Zealand, I just love how the settings of the books always become a character of their own and the town of Castle Bay was no exception.
Castle Bay reminded me of the film, Hot Fuzz, it’s quiet and quaint but beneath the surface there is evil lurking. I adored Nikki’s descriptions of the town, I could picture it in my mind and I really got a feel for the place. I really felt I was there alongside Miller discovering the town for the first time. I especially loved the descriptions of the forest surrounding the town.
Miller was a fabulous character, she’s a journalist who has been sent to Castle Bay to cover the discovery of backpacker Bethany’s body who disappeared from Castle Bay 4 months ago. Miller in herself is flawed and I loved that, the only accommodation available is at a wellness retreat called Haven where she meets other flawed characters. Miller’s need for alcohol did impair her judgement at times but it was written so brilliantly, at times I understood about her need to drink.
Kahu is the local cop in Castle Bay but he’s quickly overrun with police from a big city who muscle in and take over the investigation. I loved his character, he was a great police sergeant who is proud to live and protect Castle Bay. He was determined to get to the bottom of it all and figure it all out.
I loved the retreat, the characters that worked there and also came to stay were a great addition to the story. None of them are perfect and as the book went on, I became suspicious of all the characters.
This book will keep you guessing to the end, there are several twists to the story that kept me want to keep reading and as a result I finished it quickly. I really hope we get to visit Castle Bay again in the future, I adored the small town feel and also the sense of menace and claustrophobia of being in the small town.
If this first offering by Nikki is to go by, she’s a writer to look out for in the future. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book by Nikki.
Castle Bay reminded me of the film, Hot Fuzz, it’s quiet and quaint but beneath the surface there is evil lurking. I adored Nikki’s descriptions of the town, I could picture it in my mind and I really got a feel for the place. I really felt I was there alongside Miller discovering the town for the first time. I especially loved the descriptions of the forest surrounding the town.
Miller was a fabulous character, she’s a journalist who has been sent to Castle Bay to cover the discovery of backpacker Bethany’s body who disappeared from Castle Bay 4 months ago. Miller in herself is flawed and I loved that, the only accommodation available is at a wellness retreat called Haven where she meets other flawed characters. Miller’s need for alcohol did impair her judgement at times but it was written so brilliantly, at times I understood about her need to drink.
Kahu is the local cop in Castle Bay but he’s quickly overrun with police from a big city who muscle in and take over the investigation. I loved his character, he was a great police sergeant who is proud to live and protect Castle Bay. He was determined to get to the bottom of it all and figure it all out.
I loved the retreat, the characters that worked there and also came to stay were a great addition to the story. None of them are perfect and as the book went on, I became suspicious of all the characters.
This book will keep you guessing to the end, there are several twists to the story that kept me want to keep reading and as a result I finished it quickly. I really hope we get to visit Castle Bay again in the future, I adored the small town feel and also the sense of menace and claustrophobia of being in the small town.
If this first offering by Nikki is to go by, she’s a writer to look out for in the future. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book by Nikki.
August 20, 2018
Nothing Bad Happens Here. But what if something bad *did* happen here? Well in the first pages of Nikki Crutchley’s debut thriller something bad does happen and it turns out not to be an isolated incident. When journalist Miller Hatcher starts digging for a story someone will have to take steps to keep their secrets.
The town where “nothing bad happens” is Castle Bay in New Zealand. It appears a sleepy, idyllic place where all the residents know each other, the town mayor also doubles as a real estate agent and gossip is currency for the residents. As with all small towns there are a few bad eggs who people know to avoid but overall life seems uncomplicated and peaceful.
Until an English backpacker, traveling alone, goes missing – last seen in Castle Bay. The small police force conduct searches but to no avail. The reader, however, does know what happened as Nothing Bad Happens Here opens with a sequence which outlines exactly what happened to the backpacker on the night she disappeared. The main story then picks up events several weeks later when her body is found.
Sent to Castle Bay to report on the resulting investigation, Miller takes up residence in a home which acts as a retreat for women who need space, understanding and the opportunity to speak freely to discuss concerns. Run by Delta, described as an American Hippy, Miller finds that the other guests all have stories to tell (although not all want to).
In her debut novel Nikki Crutchley focuses on Miller’s pursuit of her story and it makes for engaging reading. The characters in the town display the best and worst of people and Miller tries to establish confidences whilst simultaneously abhorring the gossipy nature of some of the residents. As Miller gets closer to understanding what happened the night the backpacker disappeared another girl vanishes from the town. The author builds tension more and more and Miller finds herself in jeopardy when she realises how close she is coming to uncovering the truth.
A fun debut read which captures the claustrophobia of a small town suddenly confronting the discovery that their safe haven is not as safe as they had believed. A strong cast of well established characters makes this an engaging and enjoyable read.
The town where “nothing bad happens” is Castle Bay in New Zealand. It appears a sleepy, idyllic place where all the residents know each other, the town mayor also doubles as a real estate agent and gossip is currency for the residents. As with all small towns there are a few bad eggs who people know to avoid but overall life seems uncomplicated and peaceful.
Until an English backpacker, traveling alone, goes missing – last seen in Castle Bay. The small police force conduct searches but to no avail. The reader, however, does know what happened as Nothing Bad Happens Here opens with a sequence which outlines exactly what happened to the backpacker on the night she disappeared. The main story then picks up events several weeks later when her body is found.
Sent to Castle Bay to report on the resulting investigation, Miller takes up residence in a home which acts as a retreat for women who need space, understanding and the opportunity to speak freely to discuss concerns. Run by Delta, described as an American Hippy, Miller finds that the other guests all have stories to tell (although not all want to).
In her debut novel Nikki Crutchley focuses on Miller’s pursuit of her story and it makes for engaging reading. The characters in the town display the best and worst of people and Miller tries to establish confidences whilst simultaneously abhorring the gossipy nature of some of the residents. As Miller gets closer to understanding what happened the night the backpacker disappeared another girl vanishes from the town. The author builds tension more and more and Miller finds herself in jeopardy when she realises how close she is coming to uncovering the truth.
A fun debut read which captures the claustrophobia of a small town suddenly confronting the discovery that their safe haven is not as safe as they had believed. A strong cast of well established characters makes this an engaging and enjoyable read.
March 3, 2018
Nothing Bad Happens Here is an excellent read. It is a perfect combination of psychological suspense, thriller, and mystery!
Bethany Haliwell is a tourist who came to the small coastal town of Castle Bay looking for adventure, instead her body is found months after she went missing. Now, journalists are flocking to the quaint town to cover the murder. Miller Hatcher is one of them. She is hoping this opportunity will help both professionally and personally. She has no idea just how far she will be pulled into this story, and how it will greatly affect her.
This book just isn’t about the murder of a young girl, but it’s the journey of Miller and several other players in town. In each chapter, another layer is peeled away to reveal a deeper level to key characters, especially Kahu, the sergeant leading the investigation and Miller. Miller is battling her own pain and demons. Somehow, this assignment is forcing her to face those. Her flaws are revealed, and because of that, she is a character I could relate to. This case will definitely change her.
As the mystery deepens and the investigation proceeds, another side of the town will be revealed, especially when more disappearances and murders seem to be tied to Castle Bay. There are lots of twists and turns which kept the story racing forward which kept the pages turning for me. I thought I knew what was going on, and then I would be taken by surprise yet again. These are my favorite kinds of books.
What an incredible debut by Nikki Crutchley! The characters are so well-developed, and the story is so well-written, I would think this would have been written by a writer who had been doing this for years. She is definitely a writer to watch! I can’t wait to see what she has in store for her readers next!
***Read & Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Bethany Haliwell is a tourist who came to the small coastal town of Castle Bay looking for adventure, instead her body is found months after she went missing. Now, journalists are flocking to the quaint town to cover the murder. Miller Hatcher is one of them. She is hoping this opportunity will help both professionally and personally. She has no idea just how far she will be pulled into this story, and how it will greatly affect her.
This book just isn’t about the murder of a young girl, but it’s the journey of Miller and several other players in town. In each chapter, another layer is peeled away to reveal a deeper level to key characters, especially Kahu, the sergeant leading the investigation and Miller. Miller is battling her own pain and demons. Somehow, this assignment is forcing her to face those. Her flaws are revealed, and because of that, she is a character I could relate to. This case will definitely change her.
As the mystery deepens and the investigation proceeds, another side of the town will be revealed, especially when more disappearances and murders seem to be tied to Castle Bay. There are lots of twists and turns which kept the story racing forward which kept the pages turning for me. I thought I knew what was going on, and then I would be taken by surprise yet again. These are my favorite kinds of books.
What an incredible debut by Nikki Crutchley! The characters are so well-developed, and the story is so well-written, I would think this would have been written by a writer who had been doing this for years. She is definitely a writer to watch! I can’t wait to see what she has in store for her readers next!
***Read & Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
February 28, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Blog
I rarely read crime, because I grew up with Agatha Christie’s books and they are so different from most crime books, it’s hard to find something that keeps my interest without being too bloody or psycho…
This book though, had me interested from page one. The characters were well developed and real. No over-the-top detective who seems to see through everything, solving the case completely on his own. No witty heroine without a care in the world. No. These characters had their demons to fight, their addictions to overcome all the while solving a murder case in a small town where “nothing bad happens”.
This book is the first book this author has written and I was amazed about the depth of details, the plot that wound itself through obstacles and disguises without ever being lost and – in the end – the twist of all twists. Seriously, I would have NEVER expected this!
More than once throughout the book I was fooled by the rather obvious solution that wasn’t a solution at all and I wished I would have paid more attention to the details. Maybe I wouldn’t have been fooled then. I will reread this book as soon as possible to find the little clues that point to the right person.
The writing style was good and easy to read and I could imagine everyone easily within a few words of their character’s appearance.
It was an enjoyable fast read I would recommend to each and every crime reader, just the end left me a bit unsatisfied, but that's just me.
I rarely read crime, because I grew up with Agatha Christie’s books and they are so different from most crime books, it’s hard to find something that keeps my interest without being too bloody or psycho…
This book though, had me interested from page one. The characters were well developed and real. No over-the-top detective who seems to see through everything, solving the case completely on his own. No witty heroine without a care in the world. No. These characters had their demons to fight, their addictions to overcome all the while solving a murder case in a small town where “nothing bad happens”.
This book is the first book this author has written and I was amazed about the depth of details, the plot that wound itself through obstacles and disguises without ever being lost and – in the end – the twist of all twists. Seriously, I would have NEVER expected this!
More than once throughout the book I was fooled by the rather obvious solution that wasn’t a solution at all and I wished I would have paid more attention to the details. Maybe I wouldn’t have been fooled then. I will reread this book as soon as possible to find the little clues that point to the right person.
The writing style was good and easy to read and I could imagine everyone easily within a few words of their character’s appearance.
It was an enjoyable fast read I would recommend to each and every crime reader, just the end left me a bit unsatisfied, but that's just me.
March 13, 2018
This book has a great opening that really managed to catch my attention and keep it throughout. There were a few twists that kept me on my toes and I was very intrigued as to who committed the murder. Miller was well written and even though she had her flaws I was invested in her story. I enjoyed seeing the story from the perspective of both the police and the press. Miller and Kahu had a good dynamic and made the story even more entertaining for me.
I loved how on the surface everything seems perfect in this small town but what really lurks below the surface? There was a good range of minor characters that all brought something different to the story. I always find that books set in a small town provide an extra layer of tension as the reader is left wondering who to trust.
With descriptive writing that brought the characters, community and story to life. A strong debut!
Four stars from me!
With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I loved how on the surface everything seems perfect in this small town but what really lurks below the surface? There was a good range of minor characters that all brought something different to the story. I always find that books set in a small town provide an extra layer of tension as the reader is left wondering who to trust.
With descriptive writing that brought the characters, community and story to life. A strong debut!
Four stars from me!
With thanks to Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 10, 2018
A nice, clean Kiwi crime thriller, that’s what ‘Nothing Bad Happens Here’ is. The merit of the book, and the cleverness of the author is abundantly clear is the way she has worked the environment and the setting of book into the plot line. For a reader who is used to stories set in America or England, finding elements from your backyard was a novel and exciting experience. It gives the book it’s distinctly Kiwi feel. There isn’t anything extra ordinary about the story line. Like I said before it’s a simple and fairly straightforward murder mystery that keeps the pages turning. Oh and full marks for working ‘jandal’ into the novel. I’ll admit, that one thing alone earned it an extra star from me and ended with a well deserved four stars rating.
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