The intricate lives of this family were unfurled so incredibly, that it was hard to stop reading. The audiobook is a brilliant rendition which I definitely feel added to the suspense, tension and intrigue. Complicated feelings of loyalty to family, to religion, and to societal rules were explored in many ways, as all of our characters struggled with secrets and life changing decisions. I think Frances was my favourite character, with her absolutely heart wrenching internal struggles with motherhood and marriage.

All in all, a complex, interesting, emotional tale of family, adult life and staying true to your own heart. I absolutely devoured it!

*When We Were Bad* by Charlotte Mendelson is a sharp, darkly comic novel about family dysfunction and the complexities of sibling relationships. The story revolves around the Voss family, particularly sisters Iris and Lorna, who are navigating the aftermath of their volatile upbringing and their strained connections with each other and their parents. As they grapple with their past mistakes and present disappointments, Mendelson crafts a keenly observed portrait of familial ties, guilt, and love.

The novel is both humorous and poignant, with Mendelson’s trademark wit and insight into human nature. The characters are deeply flawed yet relatable, and their interactions are filled with tension, humor, and emotional depth. While the pacing can be slow at times, the book’s rich character development and exploration of family dynamics make it a captivating read.

*When We Were Bad* is a compelling exploration of family secrets and the struggle for personal redemption, wrapped in Mendelson’s sharp, engaging prose.