A review by lady_wira
Good Me, Bad Me by Ali Land

4.0

The novel tells the story of Annie, a teenage girl placed in a new foster family after turning her mother, a notorious serial killer, into the police.

The book is told from Milly’s perspective ( Annie’s new identity), as she struggles to come to terms with her traumatic past and uncertain future. She is constantly haunted by the memories of her mother’s crimes and fears that she might have inherited her mother’s violent tendencies. As she tries to adjust to her new life and navigate the challenges of being a teenager, Milly finds herself torn between the desire to fit in with her new family and the fear of being like her mother.

Good Me Bad Me is a masterful exploration of trauma and how it can shape a person’s identity and behaviour. Land’s prose is hauntingly beautiful, with vivid descriptions that transport the reader into Annie’s world, and a narrative structure that keeps the reader guessing until the end.

The novel is gripping and suspenseful, with a fast-paced plot that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The characters are well-developed, particularly Milly, whose complex and conflicted personality is the heart of the story. The book also explores themes of nature vs. nurture, the impact of trauma on mental health, and the role of family and community in shaping a person’s identity.

“Good Me Bad Me” is a well-written and thought-provoking novel that is sure to keep readers engaged until the very end. Ali Land’s debut novel showcases her talent for crafting a compelling and nuanced story that delves into the dark and complex workings of the human psyche. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or just looking for a good book to sink your teeth into, it is definitely worth checking out.