What do you think?
Rate this book
A Brandy Alexander Mystery #8
No Such Thing As A Thing of the Past
Author Note: *PLEASE READ*
As many of you know, my heart and soul lie within the pages of the No Such Thing As... Brandy Alexander Mysteries. At the time I ended the series, I was ready (or so I thought) to move on. I even wrote an epilogue that put a cap on the "happily ever after" I felt my characters deserved. Well, it turns out I missed her more than I ever dreamed possible. I tried writing for other characters within Brandy's world, but it didn't give me nearly as much satisfaction. Brandy is a part of me, and I felt a tremendous loss by not giving voice to her anymore. So, I decided to write another installment (for my own satisfaction, and hopefully, for yours as well).
Of course, I immediately ran into a problem. If you have read all the books, you know what happened in the epilogue of Smooth Sailing. The reasonable expectation is that I would continue on from there. But I have never been accused of being reasonable. If I were going to write another Brandy book, it would have to create in me the kind of excitement the other books did, and, starting from that particular point just didn't interest me. SO, in typical Brandy fashion, I decided to write my own rules and hope that my fans would forgive me, forget about the epilogue (it has since been removed) and the Alphonso book, and pick up where we left off at the end of No Such Thing As Smooth Sailing BEFORE the epilogue.
The result of this endeavor is my new book, No Such Thing As A Thing Of The Past.
Thank you all for letting Brandy (and me) into your busy lives.
With much appreciation,
Shelly
Book Description:
“He was 20 minutes late, and I was tempted to leave, having recently decided that the past should stay the hell out of the present.”—Brandy Alexander
It’s been two weeks since Nick and Brandy’s engagement, and all seems right with the world, but this is Brandy's world, where the right things often take a wrong turn, get complicated, and occasionally, deadly.
When Nick runs across an old girlfriend who's in trouble and needs his help, Brandy battles to keep her insecurity in check, as Nick risks his life to help her. Brandy understands loyalty to old friends, especially since she is still struggling with her own on-going issues with former love, Bobby DiCarlo, and he with her, something they both believed was a thing of the past.
So, what does Brandy do to take her mind off the situation? Luckily, she doesn’t have to look far to find the diversion she needs. Per usual, Brandy is in the wrong place at the right time when she takes her dogs on a run and discovers smoke pouring out of a house in a posh Philly neighborhood. Brandy rescues the occupant trapped inside, only to discover he was the leader of a white supremacist organization. What started out as an “accidental” house fire turns into a classic whodunit, when the man dies, and evidence points to murder.
Things are further complicated by the reappearance of Luca, a young friend from Brandy's past, who is now also a member of that same organization. Brandy’s affection for the boy she used to babysit is tested as she tries to show him the error of his misguided ways.
Between Brandy's love life and her obsessive need to right every wrong, she really has her hands full. And as she, Nick, and Bobby grapple with the baggage of their own personal history, they discover there really is No Such Thing As A Thing Of The Past.
As many of you know, my heart and soul lie within the pages of the No Such Thing As... Brandy Alexander Mysteries. At the time I ended the series, I was ready (or so I thought) to move on. I even wrote an epilogue that put a cap on the "happily ever after" I felt my characters deserved. Well, it turns out I missed her more than I ever dreamed possible. I tried writing for other characters within Brandy's world, but it didn't give me nearly as much satisfaction. Brandy is a part of me, and I felt a tremendous loss by not giving voice to her anymore. So, I decided to write another installment (for my own satisfaction, and hopefully, for yours as well).
Of course, I immediately ran into a problem. If you have read all the books, you know what happened in the epilogue of Smooth Sailing. The reasonable expectation is that I would continue on from there. But I have never been accused of being reasonable. If I were going to write another Brandy book, it would have to create in me the kind of excitement the other books did, and, starting from that particular point just didn't interest me. SO, in typical Brandy fashion, I decided to write my own rules and hope that my fans would forgive me, forget about the epilogue (it has since been removed) and the Alphonso book, and pick up where we left off at the end of No Such Thing As Smooth Sailing BEFORE the epilogue.
The result of this endeavor is my new book, No Such Thing As A Thing Of The Past.
Thank you all for letting Brandy (and me) into your busy lives.
With much appreciation,
Shelly
Book Description:
“He was 20 minutes late, and I was tempted to leave, having recently decided that the past should stay the hell out of the present.”—Brandy Alexander
It’s been two weeks since Nick and Brandy’s engagement, and all seems right with the world, but this is Brandy's world, where the right things often take a wrong turn, get complicated, and occasionally, deadly.
When Nick runs across an old girlfriend who's in trouble and needs his help, Brandy battles to keep her insecurity in check, as Nick risks his life to help her. Brandy understands loyalty to old friends, especially since she is still struggling with her own on-going issues with former love, Bobby DiCarlo, and he with her, something they both believed was a thing of the past.
So, what does Brandy do to take her mind off the situation? Luckily, she doesn’t have to look far to find the diversion she needs. Per usual, Brandy is in the wrong place at the right time when she takes her dogs on a run and discovers smoke pouring out of a house in a posh Philly neighborhood. Brandy rescues the occupant trapped inside, only to discover he was the leader of a white supremacist organization. What started out as an “accidental” house fire turns into a classic whodunit, when the man dies, and evidence points to murder.
Things are further complicated by the reappearance of Luca, a young friend from Brandy's past, who is now also a member of that same organization. Brandy’s affection for the boy she used to babysit is tested as she tries to show him the error of his misguided ways.
Between Brandy's love life and her obsessive need to right every wrong, she really has her hands full. And as she, Nick, and Bobby grapple with the baggage of their own personal history, they discover there really is No Such Thing As A Thing Of The Past.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2021
14 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 28, 2023
I was sad when the series ended. But was happy for Brandy and Nick and others too. I didn't like the fact that she took a few steps back from her development. She was more sure of herself and her mind in the "Lost soul" and "Smooth sailing " tied up many loose ends. I don't mind getting another book in my favourite series but please don't undo Brandy's growth just to get more stories out of her and I really hated that Nick and Brandy are hurting each other because they couldn't let go of the past. Hope these are resolved in the next book so that I don't end up hating Bobby.
March 17, 2021
4.5 stars (A-)
I honestly can't remember now who first told me about the Brandy Alexander books by Shelly Fredman. I do know they were recommended at first for people who enjoyed Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, and there are some similarities. They are both humorous mysteries with strong romantic undertones, and at first there is a sort of love triangle. Brandy, like Stephanie is plucky and prone to getting into trouble and likes junk food. But I find the Brandy Alexander books have more heart and depth, and the relationship development is emotional and real, and feels more like actual adults.
NSTA a Thing of the Past is the eighth installment in the series, and I recommend they be read in order before this. The book is full of characters we've been following for a while, and their backstories are essential, in my opinion. There are six books and the seventh is a novella,NSTA Smooth Sailing. Last year Fredman told her fans that when she wrote the novella and gave an HEA epilogue, she thought she was finished with the series. She'd been trying to write a different book when she realized Brandy had more to do and say, and Freedman gave up and started writing another Brandy book. However, now we need to throw-out the premature HEA epilogue! Brandy and Nick have more stuff to work on. To catch up, start with No Such Thing As A Secret. The books are available on Kindle Unlimited.
When Brandy rescues an unconscious man from a burning house, she gets pulled into the media crossfire between a white supremacist group and a non profit promoting racial equality and justice. When the man from the fire dies, Bandy feels the need to find out who killed him, and now, who might be trying to kill her, too. Nick, her enigmatic boyfriend with the dubious background and sometimes dangerous occupation, has been gone on one of his secret trips to "fix" something, and comes back obviously emotionally hurting. It turns out a former lover is in trouble, and he's working now to help her. Brandy's insecurities are undermining her faith in Nick, and there is a lot for them to work out if they ever stop long enough to talk.
The story was engaging from the beginning and the pacing was perfect, keeping the reader wanting more. It was emotional and satisfying. The main mystery plot is ended, but there is more that needs to be worked out for Nick and Brandy,and I look forward to reading the next book. Write fast, Ms. Fredman!
I honestly can't remember now who first told me about the Brandy Alexander books by Shelly Fredman. I do know they were recommended at first for people who enjoyed Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, and there are some similarities. They are both humorous mysteries with strong romantic undertones, and at first there is a sort of love triangle. Brandy, like Stephanie is plucky and prone to getting into trouble and likes junk food. But I find the Brandy Alexander books have more heart and depth, and the relationship development is emotional and real, and feels more like actual adults.
NSTA a Thing of the Past is the eighth installment in the series, and I recommend they be read in order before this. The book is full of characters we've been following for a while, and their backstories are essential, in my opinion. There are six books and the seventh is a novella,NSTA Smooth Sailing. Last year Fredman told her fans that when she wrote the novella and gave an HEA epilogue, she thought she was finished with the series. She'd been trying to write a different book when she realized Brandy had more to do and say, and Freedman gave up and started writing another Brandy book. However, now we need to throw-out the premature HEA epilogue! Brandy and Nick have more stuff to work on. To catch up, start with No Such Thing As A Secret. The books are available on Kindle Unlimited.
When Brandy rescues an unconscious man from a burning house, she gets pulled into the media crossfire between a white supremacist group and a non profit promoting racial equality and justice. When the man from the fire dies, Bandy feels the need to find out who killed him, and now, who might be trying to kill her, too. Nick, her enigmatic boyfriend with the dubious background and sometimes dangerous occupation, has been gone on one of his secret trips to "fix" something, and comes back obviously emotionally hurting. It turns out a former lover is in trouble, and he's working now to help her. Brandy's insecurities are undermining her faith in Nick, and there is a lot for them to work out if they ever stop long enough to talk.
The story was engaging from the beginning and the pacing was perfect, keeping the reader wanting more. It was emotional and satisfying. The main mystery plot is ended, but there is more that needs to be worked out for Nick and Brandy,and I look forward to reading the next book. Write fast, Ms. Fredman!
June 22, 2021
It was sooooooo good and then wham! It was over! I hate being left hanging. Why????????? Why????? Now I will be waiting and wondering and wondering and waiting. So cruel. Lol
July 27, 2024
This series was wrapped & finished with "Smooth Sailing"epilogue and then the author missed her characters so she wrote a warning at the front of this book to pretend "Smooth Sailing" epilogue never happened. Very disappointing since Brandy committed to Nick. This book was all over the place and ended in a cliffhanger so I'm assuming there will now be more books. In this book, Brandy runs into a kid she used to babysit with ties to a white supremacist organization where there's been a murder, fights with another organization, protests, and attempts on Brandy's life. During that time Brandy and Nick are having problems because he is helping a female childhood friend and Brandy is jealous and loses all of her self esteem and jumps to conclusions about everything sabotaging their relationship. She also almost gets Neenie killed and is still trolling after Bobby. Frankie's wedding still hasn't happened and she still hasn't told her parents she's living with Nick.
May 23, 2021
I think people were so excited about a new book that they rated this one better than it deserved. This book just found Brandy taking several steps back from where the last book left off. It felt more like the author just wanted to write another Brandy book that she completely erased all of Brandy's self development and decided to have her repeat all of the same mistakes. I clearly found this book frustrating while I want more books that's dependent on if the characters will be allowed to grow. Here's hoping the next is better.
March 8, 2021
If I could follow only five authors for the rest of my life, Shelly Fredman would be way up on that list. She brings the impulsive and kindhearted trouble magnet, Brandy Alexander to vibrant life and pulls her right into the heart of the reader. Saying that I loved No Such Thing as a Thing of the Past may sound trite but it is SO true. I adore spending time with Brandy and her friends and it was wonderful being with these dear friends after too long apart, something that is especially appropriate now.
If you are new to the Brandy Alexander, No Such Thing series, the books are filled with hilarity and caring and the mysteries that the young Philly native can't resist investigating because people matter. Life is never easy for Brandy and the issues she and author Shelly Fredman address are important topics faced on a personal level but they never overpower Brandy's impulsiveness and insecurities that add both humor and heart, they are all part of the whole
IF you read the previous book when it first came out, be aware that Ms. Fredman has taken us back to a time between the end of the book and the epilogue. That is happy news for most of us because we don't want to miss those years.
For new readers, I believe that No Such Thing as as a Thing of the Past can be read as a standalone but be prepared to fall in love with Brandy and to want to go back and read the series from the beginning.
If you are new to the Brandy Alexander, No Such Thing series, the books are filled with hilarity and caring and the mysteries that the young Philly native can't resist investigating because people matter. Life is never easy for Brandy and the issues she and author Shelly Fredman address are important topics faced on a personal level but they never overpower Brandy's impulsiveness and insecurities that add both humor and heart, they are all part of the whole
IF you read the previous book when it first came out, be aware that Ms. Fredman has taken us back to a time between the end of the book and the epilogue. That is happy news for most of us because we don't want to miss those years.
For new readers, I believe that No Such Thing as as a Thing of the Past can be read as a standalone but be prepared to fall in love with Brandy and to want to go back and read the series from the beginning.
July 7, 2021
Brandy And The Gang Is Back!
A great read; you will not be able to put it down! Shelly Freeman does not disappoint with a mystery filled with intrigue and humor! A mystery, love story, and Brandy is an adventure that will make you laugh out loud and put a smile on your face! After Brandy, my favorite character is Nick, dark, sexy and mysterious! His love, admiration, and respect for Brandy are a recipe for a fascinating and hot relationship!
A great read; you will not be able to put it down! Shelly Freeman does not disappoint with a mystery filled with intrigue and humor! A mystery, love story, and Brandy is an adventure that will make you laugh out loud and put a smile on your face! After Brandy, my favorite character is Nick, dark, sexy and mysterious! His love, admiration, and respect for Brandy are a recipe for a fascinating and hot relationship!
March 9, 2021
Brandy’s Back!
Brandy’s back & better than ever! I was so disappointed when this series ended. When the author decided to continue writing about her I was so excited. I downloaded the book this afternoon & stayed up late to finish it. A great story & now I can’t wait for the next book! Hope I don’t have to wait too long.
Brandy’s back & better than ever! I was so disappointed when this series ended. When the author decided to continue writing about her I was so excited. I downloaded the book this afternoon & stayed up late to finish it. A great story & now I can’t wait for the next book! Hope I don’t have to wait too long.
April 9, 2021
No such thing as wanting the series to end
Oh my goodness! She's back! Yes Brandi Alexander is back with a new way to get herself into trouble. This time it was her good deeds that started the ball rolling. If you like the gangster type and sexy hot guys along with a bumbling female lead, this series is for you. I just hope the next book in the series comes out soon.
Oh my goodness! She's back! Yes Brandi Alexander is back with a new way to get herself into trouble. This time it was her good deeds that started the ball rolling. If you like the gangster type and sexy hot guys along with a bumbling female lead, this series is for you. I just hope the next book in the series comes out soon.
May 7, 2021
I'm so glad Brandy is back
I was sad when this series ended so I was happy when I saw a new book. I'd like to see Brandy get some answers from Nick to better understand him and maybe have the chance to save him in some South American jungle or something. That's my fantasy. I love Bandy and want to see this series continue.
I was sad when this series ended so I was happy when I saw a new book. I'd like to see Brandy get some answers from Nick to better understand him and maybe have the chance to save him in some South American jungle or something. That's my fantasy. I love Bandy and want to see this series continue.
December 24, 2024
The last time I read a Brandy Alexander novel was in 2017, and having rated them so highly, I was more than delighted to see that there are now two more books in the series published. I love Brandy’s zany personality and her tendency to get into trouble is amusing, but what’s with that ending …. No, not liking that at all …..
April 4, 2021
If you haven't read Shelly Fredmans Brandy Alexander series then you are missing out.
This is book 8 in the series and it reminded me why I fell in love in the first place.
It's got romance, mystery, suspense and humor. A smarter more suspensive Stephanie Plum with sexier male characters.
This is book 8 in the series and it reminded me why I fell in love in the first place.
It's got romance, mystery, suspense and humor. A smarter more suspensive Stephanie Plum with sexier male characters.
April 19, 2021
Yay!!!
I am so glad this author decided to do another book. Absolutely love Brandy and the cast of characters.All the twists. Just when you think you have it figured out... Nope, you were way off. Would highly recommend all books in this series. Hoping there will be another one.
I am so glad this author decided to do another book. Absolutely love Brandy and the cast of characters.All the twists. Just when you think you have it figured out... Nope, you were way off. Would highly recommend all books in this series. Hoping there will be another one.
May 14, 2021
love love love
i’m so invested in Brandy’s life! that’s what these books so they suck you in and make you figure for her! these characters are so fun! i love the adventures Brandy takes you on! this series is a must read!!
i’m so invested in Brandy’s life! that’s what these books so they suck you in and make you figure for her! these characters are so fun! i love the adventures Brandy takes you on! this series is a must read!!
March 12, 2021
I absolutely love this series.
March 14, 2021
OMG. Love this series and I’m dying for the next one
March 28, 2021
Another great Brandy novel
I can’t wait for the the next one. Brandy is always an adventure and a great way to escape on a rainy afternoon.
I can’t wait for the the next one. Brandy is always an adventure and a great way to escape on a rainy afternoon.
May 25, 2021
Really?
If you read this really good book, you may be upset with the writer. How soon is the next one?
If you read this really good book, you may be upset with the writer. How soon is the next one?
October 19, 2021
I absolutely love these books! So disappointed I don’t have more to binge read. I really hope there’s a 9th book!
Want to read
June 24, 2021I love this book, but that is because I'm the author and I'm admittedly quite biased.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews