Your Preview Verdict: The Money Club by Fiona Lowe

Izzy Harrington’s fiance is a successful entrepreneur and everyone’s friend, but today she’s waiting for him to get home so she can tell him they’re over. Except Brad never arrives.

Instead, three angry men knock on the door and insist on talking to Brad. When the police arrive asking difficult questions and demanding to see his passport, Izzy’s packed suitcases suddenly take on a whole new meaning.

Brad’s disappearance sends ripples through their small town and a furious mob camps on Izzy’s lawn desperate to recover their losses. They have Izzy in their crosshairs, determined to make her pay for Brad’s audacious con.

As the search intensifies, conflicting clues emerge. Clues that suggest no one really knew Brad – least of all Izzy…

A gripping exploration of modern greed as bestselling Australian author Fiona Lowe unpicks the moral quagmire of those who trade on the bonds of their closest friendships and family for money.

Buy a copy of The Money Club here.

Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:

Fiona Lowe is one of my favourite authors and so I was looking forward to reading her latest novel. I was not disappointed and this was a 5-star read for me. It seems that scams are everywhere and the scammers are becoming more and more sophisticated. Con artists with their Ponzi schemes can seem innocent enough to begin with, so the author has chosen a very topical issue to write about. The novel examined several pertinent questions such as, How can you know someone intimately, and yet not really know them? What is the connection between trust, honesty and fraud? Is there a dark side to wealth and living the good life? When does need turn to greed? I really felt for the characters as I watched them suffer but was cheering the three women on. I thought this was a well-written book and thoroughly recommend it, and eagerly await the author’s next novel. Ruth, WA, 5 Stars

I started this book thinking the title suggested heartache and division was to come and I wasn’t wrong. People hiding behind facades, lying and deceit make for a fabulous story. Glingilly is a quiet country town with a close-knit community who are torn apart by money. Each character is developed well and we continue to learn more throughout the book. Family turmoils boil behind closed doors and hatred, bullying and lies spiral out of control. The plot takes a surprising turn halfway through the book which I honestly didn’t see coming. Fiona Lowe has a skill in her writing which allows the reader to follow each family’s story with empathy, anger and realise the true nature of greed. Shelley, QLD, 5 Stars

A gripping story of greed, people wanting to be financially stable only to find themselves financially ruined! A story of a Ponzi scheme and the effect it has on the friendships and the strength of those who were betrayed to survive in a small community. Told from the view of Izzy, Lucy and Birdie, it was a delight to read and I loved the development of the characters’ relationships. Birdie judged her daughter-in-law Lucy for her spending habits and Lucy considered Izzy haughty. Fiona Lowe tells a great story of them dealing with many issues: work/family balances, friendship and accepting each other’s faults, and really not judging a book by the cover. I loved it and would highly recommend. Teresa, VIC, 5 Stars

Another great book by a fabulous Aussie author. The story centres around a small town and what happens when one of their favourite sons disappears, along with hundreds of thousands of dollars that he’s ripped off his unsuspecting friends and family in a Ponzi scheme. Relationships implode as the aftermath of the deception plays out. Fiona always tackles modern issues brilliantly and this is no exception. Highly recommend! Lee, VIC, 5 Stars

A compelling fiction on wealth, greed, loyalty, and betrayal. Izzy Harrington is living a glamorous lifestyle but when she decides to end the relationship with her wealthy fiancé, Brad, it all goes pear-shaped when the police arrive on her doorstep, implicating her in a fraudulent scam. When Brad is nowhere to be found, his victims all turn on Izzy, demanding to recuperate their losses. The story is set in a small regional town in Victoria and is told through the eyes of three strong women – Izzy, Birdie and Lucy. Admittedly, it took me a while to understand the characters at the start of the novel, but then the gripping suspense increased, and the novel quickly became a real page-turner. Overall, I enjoyed reading this gripping novel. Christine, QLD, 5 Stars

The Money Club is set in a small town near Warrnambool in country Victoria, Australia. The characters, friendships and activities reflect living in the Australian countryside and evince the strength of community found there. The betrayal by one of their own, the ripple effect across the town, and the fracturing of lifelong relationships are explored and unpicked. The impact and response of each character is detailed in all their raw, imperfect or bewildered ways. However, the growth and development of stronger relationships is reassuring in the recovery of many of the community members and it’s an absorbing read to see this playing out. There are times the reader will shake their head at the brutal, gaslighting audacity of the perpetrator, willing their partner to wake up and advocate for themselves! But it’s a well-written example of how situations emerge and people can be fooled by their innate belief that people are good. With some characters, it also demonstrates we sometimes only believe what we want to believe. A thoroughly enjoyable read of the many relationships explored. A book you will want to pick up and continue reading at every opportunity to see what happens next. Merilyn, WA, 5 Stars

Fans of Fiona Lowe along with new readers to this author will love this book. I could not put it down. The plot revolves around families and friends enjoying the high life as a result of a quick ‘get rich’ scheme. When it all comes tumbling down they are left with nothing and have to learn about themselves and who they can really trust and rely on. The characters all have their flaws and this makes their struggles all the more believable. I was totally engaged with the characters and recommend this book highly. Janine, VIC, 5 Stars

I LOVED this book, which centres on the unravelling of a Ponzi scheme in a small town in Victoria told through the eyes of three women: Birdie, her daughter-in-law Lucy, and Izzy. Izzy is the glamorous fiancée of Brad. The charming Brad seems to be running a successful investment scheme but suddenly he disappears on the same day that Izzy decides to leave him. The money, which funded their champagne lifestyle, has also disappeared, much to the anger of their “friends” who invested in the scheme. Birdie and Lucy, as investors, are close to bankruptcy and their relationship, along with many other relationships, teeters on the edge too,as financial stress wreaks havoc. It is a well-written, absorbing book that explores themes of need versus greed, consumerism, “Keeping up with the Joneses”, the role of women and juggling family and work commitments, mental health, the desire for revenge, relationships, and much more in an easy-to-read, gripping fashion. I wholeheartedly recommend it and am so pleased that Better Reading sent it to me to review. Pamela, VIC, 5 Stars

Fiona Lowe will forever be known as one of Australia’s greatest storytellers. I just love her style of writing and the way she effortlessly pulls you into the story. You always know you’re on a winner when you pick up one of her books! The Money Club is no exception to this! Her storytelling makes the characters feel credible and likeable, I felt invested in them, I wanted the best for them – well, for most of them! As usual, Lowe’s storyline is relevant and believable; she leaves you thinking, how would I handle that situation? I found myself fully immersed in the story and am still thinking about it days after. I will definitely be recommending The Money Club to everyone I talk to! Kate, TAS, 5 Stars

The Money Club was a book that I found difficult to put down. It may be approximately 500 pages long, but it kept me captivated! Sayings, ‘money is the root of all evil’ and ‘if it is too good to be true, then it probably is’ resonate throughout the book. I particularly loved the character, Lucy. I actually thought that she was a saint! I really felt sorry for her, yet I admired her spirit and her ability to forgive and make brave decisions. This is my third Fiona Lowe novel and it didn’t disappoint! Claire, VIC, 5 Stars

I finished this book in two days and two long nights. I was hooked from the first paragraph. I really loved the way the author described her characters, especially the women. Women caught up in the nightmare of losing their homes and their dreams because of a scheme that played on their greed and that of the men in their lives. A get rich quick scheme that seemed infallible, offering a lifestyle that they had only dreamt of. One of the main characters, Izzy, made me angry initially, but as the story unfolded I began to like her more and more as she slowly emerged from the furor created by the disappearance of the man she believed she loved. Her slow acceptance of her own worth made me cheer for her as the story unfolded. The people living in the small Australian town in which the story is set felt like my neighbours and my friends, and I think that’s why I enjoyed this book so much. Lynda, SA, 5 Stars

The author quickly establishes her main characters, fleshing out Izzie Harrington, girlfriend of flamboyant, flashy, charming Brad, founder of the exclusive Elite and Fortune Investment Clubs mostly comprised of family, including parents Judy and Bevan, close friends, and members of the Glingilly Social Club. Lucy & Jack are wannabe acquaintances with parents Mike and Birdie, who also are lured into wanting the good life and comfortable retirement years. Is it too good to be true? The author keeps the pace moving with lots of twists and turns, whilst revealing a sound grasp of human nature, and convincingly showing how people are duped. Who has betrayed them and how do people act after they have been led into ruin? Can they recover and start from scratch again? The fraught situation forges new unexpected friendships and our interest is held till the end. Well worth a read! Fran, VIC, 5 Stars

I have read and loved many of Fiona Lowe’s books over the past few years. Her latest book, The Money Club, is up there with the best. It is perhaps even her best book yet. The storyline is totally in line with some of the dodgy Ponzi schemes we see in our present society. People succumb to these schemes in the book but what is interesting is how different people react in the aftermath of being associated, in some cases even marginally, with such schemes. These reactions are narrated with honesty and great insight. The characters are strong, particularly Izzy and Birdie. I loved this book. A book for our times. Renate, VIC, 5 Stars

The Money Club tells the tale of the lives, loves and lessons learned by a community that chose to chase the dream of a secure financial future. What starts with success and happiness turns into confusion, questions and a search for meaning and answers. Sometimes, it seems, what is too good to be true is… but it can be just as true that what feels insurmountable is not. Lee, ACT, 5 Stars

A story of mystery and intrigue that keeps you turning the pages as you learn more about the three main female characters: Izzy, Lucy and Birdie. Their very different but shared experience of The Money Club reveal each character’s personal struggles, strengths and adversities and the lengths they will go to for those they love and care about. Fiona Lowe has written this book with such attention to detail as she reveals each character’s personal growth and understanding of themselves that I am drawn into and invested in their outcome. I am now eager to read more books written by Fiona Lowe. Well worth the read. Pennie, QLD, 5 Stars

Another great read by Fiona Lowe. A novel about deception, fraud lies and naivety all in one. Loved the twists and turns throughout this novel. Highly recommend reading it. Lizzie, SA, 5 Stars

The Money Club had me engrossed from page one to its very satisfying conclusion. The characters are well drawn and realistic, likeable but not sugar-coated with some very human failings. The plot poses lots of questions: Where did Brad go? Where did the money go? Was Izzy a willing accomplice or an innocent victim? There are twists and turns aplenty to keep you guessing until the end. It’s a healthy-sized read but I galloped through it in record time and enjoyed every page. Would make an ideal book club read with many points to discuss. Karan, VIC, 5 Stars

Fiona Lowe can do no wrong in my eyes. Her characters are always well-developed and you feel like you’ve known them for years. The Money Club is very hard to put down. I was very impatient in finding out how the story would evolve. Greed, wealth, relationships, love, and an unexpected twist – what more could you want in a book? Trudy, SA, 5 Stars

I loved The Money Club. It was a well-thought-out book with twists in the storyline that you wouldn’t see coming. The book is good for people who enjoy the unexpected, mystery, betrayal and a little bit of a love story. I loved how the sequence of events occurred in the book; I enjoyed it so much that I lost track of time each time I picked it up, because I just wanted to know what was going to happen next. The characters were very lifelike and you could relate to them very easily. It showed the side of a different lifestyle that most of us would only dream of, but with this was not without its tragic demise. It’s a great book, well worth a read. Donna, VIC, 5 Stars

The Money Club was a different view on financial crime and fraud. Instead of focusing on the crime and the criminal, it focuses on the fallout and the effects it has on individuals and families. It gives a beautiful view of families and interpersonal relationships and how they deal with the strain of money issues. The doubt, the anger, and the shame are all portrayed as true and raw and therefore really bring the reader into the story. I would definitely recommend this book, I loved it and would love to read more by this author! Melissa, QLD, 5 Stars

The Money Club is an enthralling novel with many twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Not only does The Money Club keep you entertained, it also opens your eyes to the possibilities in reality about not knowing what’s going on behind closed doors or even with loved ones who you think you ‘know’. Sheree, NSW, 5 Stars

This book was a big 508 pages and I finished it quite quickly because it was a really good, engrossing story about nice people being ripped off in a Ponzi scheme. The story is mainly told through three women, Lucy, Izzy and Birdie. My favourite characters are Izzy and Lucy. Lucy for her determination and hardworking ethics and trying to keep her husband, son Rigby, and mother-in-law Birdie happy. Izzy, I didn’t really like that much at the start but came to like because there was more to her than first realised and I enjoyed watching her character change. There’s plenty of rich people making good returns on their investments in the town of Glingilly and I enjoyed reading about their future plans, fun at the racetrack and celebration events. There’s plenty of tension, blame and tears as people’s lives fall apart after Brad does a runner. I found it interesting how the different characters dealt with the loss of their savings, superannuation, and planned dreams. The acknowledgments at the back of the book are worth reading so you can see what and where parts of the story are based on. Tracy, WA, 5 Stars

Fiona Lowe paints a picture with her flowing words. I could see the country town and I could picture each of her characters. This book portrays people at their worst. A ponzi scheme that collapses has families angry and blaming each other. But gradually each of them find a partial solution to their financial woes and become kinder each other and instead of hiding they become part of the community again. This is one heck of a book. Fiona Lowe is quickly becoming one of my favourite Australian authors. Meredith, TAS, 5 Stars

Gripping from the very beginning, Fiona Lowe strikes again with a fantastic read that is relatable on so many levels. This was un-putdownable. Phoebe, VIC, 5 Stars

I enjoyed reading The Money Club, there were a lot of twists and turns. You never knew what was going to happen next. A real page-turner. I was very surprised with the character of Lucy, how she changed her opinion and listened to others, even when her life was a real mess. Thanks to Fiona for another great story. Vanice, VIC, 5 Stars

Let me say that this is a book that ticks all my boxes. From the very beginning, I was hooked. The main character Izzy is an intelligent young woman who becomes little more than a clothes horse; however, she is determined to solve the mystery of her fiance. This book raises questions about what you would do to get ahead financially, and who would you trust with your money. It also looks at how people react when things go wrong, and Izzy is caught in the middle. The characters are well-developed, and relatable, while the story just flows. Although I’m happy with the ending, I’m hoping there will be a follow on book from this, because I would like to see it progress. Absolutely one of the best reads for me this year. One that I’ll be trying to get as a book club read. Jacqueline, WA, 5 Stars

A gripping novel of modern greed and the devastation that families and friendships endure when it all goes wrong. Love of money is the centre of this novel, which encourages us to examine what is important in our life. Here the characters are forced to deal with the ramifications of losing all their savings, and therefore their futures. We see them try to reinvent their lives, balance work and parenthood, and take a closer look at relationships. The main character Izzy is well-drawn and likeable, but is facing huge changes in her life as police become involved, her fiancee disappears, acquaintances vent their fury on her, and conflicting clues emerge. I couldn’t put it down. Mara, NSW, 5 Stars

Another great read by Fiona Lowe! Enthralling with an awesome storyline, wonderful characters, and an eye-opening look at the far-reaching consequences of Ponzi scheme.  Lisa, WA, 5 Stars

Being a fan of Fiona Lowe’s previous novels, I was looking forward to reading The Money Club. This book really gives meaning to the saying ‘Money is the root of all evil’. Money can tear relationships apart, divide families and be traumatic. This book not only provides a great read, it will open the reader’s eyes to the potential dangers of financial schemes, especially involving family and friends. Amanda, TAS, 5 Stars

At first, I had little sympathy for the financial losses suffered by the characters, for their greed and failure to see that if something is too good to be true, then it probably is. But Fiona Lowe has a way of drawing you in and making you care. After all, who doesn’t want to improve their lot in life? The story is told mainly from the point of view of Izzy and Lucy as they wade through the ripple effects of catastrophic financial loss. Around them, family, friends and other victims are reeling and wondering ‘What next?’, when even buying the basics becomes an issue. Lives are altered beyond measure, friendships lost and unlikely new friendships formed. A story of greed, loss, trust, betrayal, and ultimately survival and friendship, particularly the bond between women. A great read. Loved it. Pamela, QLD, 5 Stars

Who doesn’t want the dream, to own their own home outright, that superannuation nest egg that will allow for a comfortable retirement, or that dream holiday discovering places you have just dreamt about your whole life? Is it greed or gullibility to trust people who have been your friends your whole life? How much value can you place in their trust? The Money Club exposes these questions in a story that is well-written and hard to put down. Brad, the sophisticated, savvy businessman living the dream, and Izzy, his right-hand woman and fiancée, show their family and friends in Glingully how it can all be achieved. Suddenly Izzy finds herself front and centre to those very friends wanting more from her than she can ever hope to give. Lives, values and relationships will change in ways that will challenge all the characters. The question we are left with is who is to blame for the changes in these characters lives: is it the naivety of the gullible, or the avarice of the greedy? A great read from Fiona Lowe and much appreciation to Better Reading for the ARC. Rita, WA, 5 Stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A huge plus is that it was set in an area I know well. This exploration of greed and manipulation leads to questions of what is important. As various characters come to grips with the implications of losing their money, so many other issues arise, like family and work/life balance. Fiona Lowe always has wonderful characters with real-life issues. The relationships between the main characters were beautifully portrayed, warts and all. The evolution of the main character, Isobel, was a delight to read. Lyn, VIC, 5 Stars

Money, Love, Greed, Betrayal, Friendship. What more do you need for a great story? Very enjoyable read. Gai, NSW, 5 Stars

If it’s too good to be true it probably is and there’s no such thing as easy money. Another great, addictive, holiday or over-the-weekend read by Fiona Lowe. The Money Club takes you into the lives, families, and Australian countryside in a hard-to-put-down, great read. Robyn, VIC, 5 Stars

Brad Quinn and Izzy Harrington live in a small country town in Western Victoria. Brad is good with numbers and well-liked. He starts the Money Club and encourages friends and family to invest in it, and the figures showed that it was making money. Money isn’t everything, as a lot of the townsfolk found out the hard way. Liz, VIC, 5 Stars

Another Fiona Lowe wonder. As with all her books, the story is like no other and filled with intrigue, love, warnings, and a number of unexpected twists. Boy did I have the wrong person to be the baddy! I am a slow reader but got through the 500 pages with ease in 4 days. I could put it down but was very impatient to pick it up again. Fiona introduces her characters so concisely that you get to know them quickly and have feelings for them all, both good and bad. The partnerships between the characters are clear and believable and the story has an easy-to-follow, intriguing plot. I am happy to strongly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. If you have not read Fiona Lowe previously, please do so. Fiona, QLD, 5 Stars

Fiona Lowe, congratulations on another great book. The Money Club has it all: greed, fraud, betrayal, trust, heartbreak, and love. Izzy is one of the main characters, but can she be trusted? Plenty of twists and turns; a real page-turner; a great read. Deborah, NSW, 5 Stars

Awesome, very interesting read. First book I have read about a Ponzi scheme. If it’s too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true. This book reveals the inner depths of such a saying. It highlights the everyday life of people affected by the collapse of such a scheme, leaving lots of them destitute for any spending money at all, shattering their dreams of retirement, their futures, etc. It reveals the lengths the organisers of such schemes go to, to hide their wrongdoings. Izzy is the star of this book. Very compelling read, very interesting, kept me wanting to keep on reading. Well written by Fiona Lowe, as usual. Glenice, VIC, 5 Stars

We follow players in a get-rich-quick scheme developed by Brad, living the high life in France, who disappears, leaving his fiancée Izzy being chased for $23 million. Greed and gullibility become real for the players, lessons we can take onboard in the real world. Robert, QLD, 5 Stars

Loved this interesting book. Couldn’t put it down until I finished. I would recommend this book. Kathleen, NSW, 5 Stars

How can you know someone, but not really know them? Where is the connection between trust, honesty, and fraud? Izzy is not the only one to be completely blindsided by her fiancée, Brad, not that the community believes her. The Money Club is a strong, realistic story centred around deceit, betrayal, and subsequent devastation. Under the promise of a good life, those invested in a believable money-making scheme find their money and their livelihoods stripped away. This con has not only left them financially ruined, but it has left them questioning their purpose and ability. The ripple effect is a community shrouded in mistrust and fraying relationships, with lives heading towards complete ruin. This book was gripping from start to finish, with twists I didn’t see coming. Lowe shows, through believable characters, the ugly side of wealth, the space where greed takes over and the lust for more becomes more important than relationships. She reveals how our perceptions of others can be clouded, for good or for bad. No one is without their own faults. This is particularly well developed through Judy and Lucy’s relationship – believable, complex and… well, you’ll have to read the book to find out! Katharine, VIC, 5 Stars

Izzy Harrington’s life is turned upside down amidst the disappearance of her successful fiance Brad. Izzy is planning to leave Brad and has her suitcases packed at the door, waiting for Brad to return so she can finish her relationship and leave. Three very angry men turn up to see Brad, then the police arrive wanting many questions answered, and it doesn’t look good for Izzy. Brad’s disappearance sends residents of the small town asking for compensation to reclaim their losses. As the search intensifies and conflicting clues emerge, Izzy starts to wonder whether she ever really knew Brad and where is she going to end up. I recommend this book highly. A brilliant read. Noeleen, WA, 5 Stars

I really enjoyed this novel! It had really interesting characters and I loved reading about their relationships with each other. There were plenty of twists; it was definitely a page-turner! Would recommend to any fans of the genre. Emily, QLD, 4 Stars

I could not put down The Money Club! We start in the middle of the story – which sounds absurd, but Fiona Lowe expertly weaves the stories of the supporting cast with the protagonists. Every character is brought to life with such mastery, as is rural Victoria. You too will want to move to Glingilly (even though it’s a fictional town) to catch a glimpse of the drama unfolding for yourself. Amy, NSW, 4 Stars

Izzy Harrington is living the life of the rich and famous in a beautiful mansion. Newly engaged to the confident Brad, who runs an investment business where people use their savings and retirement funds to return huge profits in a horse racing Ponzi scheme. Brad’s parents Bevan and Judy have also got people involved, as have their best friends Birdie and Mick, their son Jack, and daughter-in-law Lucy. It all turns to disaster when a few of the investors ask to withdraw some of their profits and are continually stalled and they realise there is a big problem. The story goes on to tell the events of what happens to the people caught up in this scheme of greed, lies, trust, and absolute betrayal, and how they work through the events that changed their lives. Another great book by Fiona Lowe. Nicola, SA, 4 Stars

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is dodgy. Today’s society is fuelled by advertising companies to induce consumers – we never have enough, or the right things, so to get ahead it seems like a great idea to participate in some form of money-making scheme. The quicker the better right? Of course, when a character like Brad comes along and invites his family and friends to join this investment scheme, it sounds enticing. And dangerous. Brad disappears and there are lots and lots of questions. This small rural community is filled with speculation and the accusations flood the community. How well do we know the people around us – the neighbours, the friends, and even those very close to us? An interesting study of people and relationships… and tricksters in the money-making game. It certainly gives you something to seriously consider in the money world. Recommended for a weekend read. Indigo, NSW, 4 Stars

The Money Club takes you on a fascinating ride through the fictitious regional Victorian town of Glingilly. We experience the good, the bad and the ugly as we follow the lives of Izzy, Lucy and Birdie as they traverse their way through suspenseful twists and turns that challenge their relationships and their whole community. Reminiscent of superannuation scams and Ponzi schemes that have made headlines in recent times, The Money Club will be enjoyed by anyone that enjoys reading Australian drama or likes gripping and tense tales filled with relatable scenarios and characters. Maria, NSW, 4 Stars

A gripping story with a few good twists that draws you in. As the book goes on, the characters evolve, making them more likeable. Overall, a book that is well worth the read. Vanessa, NSW, 4 Stars

A great read with lots of twists and turns. I enjoyed getting to know the characters that Fiona created, their relationships and the importance of money, and how this affects them all. I liked the way Fiona delved into the lives of the characters and made them all life-like and believable. Thank you for another great read from an Australian author! Christine, WA, 4 Stars

Yet another enjoyable read by Fiona Lowe. Money changes everything. If you have money, your world expands. If you have none, your world is a struggle. With the collapse of an investment scheme, the residents of small town Glingilly are left with their lives in disarray. Brad Quinn, the man behind the scheme, disappears, seemingly with everyone’s hard-earned cash, leaving his fiancée Izzy behind to face the furor of the town. Friendships are destroyed, others are tested, and new friendships are forged, in the search for answers. Four stars from me. Anne, ACT, 4 Stars

Have you ever seen a news article about people losing all their money to a Ponzi con and wondered, “How could anyone be so dumb? Didn’t they stop to think that if it sounded too good to be true, it most likely was?” The Money Club takes this premise and shows that even intelligent, conservative people can believe the hype when it comes from those they love and trust. While I felt towards the end it was becoming a little stock standard romance/family, I still really enjoyed the story and engaged with the characters. Juanita, NSW, 4 Stars

From the beginning, this book grips you. Izzy is at home waiting for her fiancée Brad to come home so she can leave him. Her bags are packed, but when the police show up with some investors she knows something is very, very wrong. Izzy has been advised that Brad has gone missing along with the $23 million dollars that family and friends have invested in him. Izzy is left holding the bags, so to speak, everyone thinking the worst when it looks like Izzy is sneaking off to be with him when in reality she is leaving him. From there, we go back to the past and read about the lead-up to Brad going missing in the voices of Izzy, Lucy and Birdie. Why did Brad mess with his family and friends’ livelihoods and what happened to the money? This book is quite a long one, coming in at over 500 pages, but the storyline is told perfectly to keep you invested in reading the book from page one to the end. The story itself is full of lies, drama and friendships lost because of the deceit of losing so much money. I felt for all the characters involved. This is my first Fiona Lowe book and it will not be my last. Tracie, NSW, 4 Stars

An interesting story about greed, love, charisma, as well as mystery. In a small Victorian town, a successful entrepreneur goes missing along with a lot of people’s money. The main characters are three strong women that irrevocably linked by this event. The book is a long 500 pages, and the story takes a little while to get going. But when it did, I was totally absorbed with the tale and the very relatable characters, and I wanted to find out how they fared. Although not all questions were answered at the end, I was very satisfied with the conclusion. Karin, VIC, 4 Stars

An original storyline about a Ponzi scheme helps to keep this book interesting, as I found it hard to get into, as I didn’t like any of the characters initially. Luckily, Cooper came along and so did the ability to like other characters when the going got tough. This book explores money, greed and small-town friendships. It was enjoyable in the end with some lovely insights into relationships. Loved the line “women are the emotional heartbeat of the family”. Tara, ACT, 4 Stars

Well, this book I can see being made into a movie. It’s definitely the kind of movie I would sit up and watch. Birdie’s character certainly had to grow on me. Is there really a more interfering and opinionated person? Lowe has certainly done her research and the characters are cleverly interwoven together to tell this story. Some events were predictable. Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to more of Lowe’s work. Annette, NSW, 4 Stars

I enjoyed this book very much! I was intrigued by the relationships between two families who have been close friends (could even be called family), and the fallout and disintegration of their friendship. The idea of the wealthy lifestyle, the extravagant holidays, clothing, cars, and the houses caught my imagination and kept me reading. It could be a real story in today’s world. The characters were real to life, I could think of someone I know who could possibly be a character in this book. It was a story of friendship, sadness, heartbreak, breakdown of relationships, trauma, betrayal, greed, and miscommunication. I would recommend this book. Sandra, WA, 4 Stars

I enjoyed this book because it proved the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover” right. The book had a great storyline with lots of different points of view, allowing you to see both sides. Tara, WA, 4 Stars

Izzy is packed ready to leave her fiancée, only she doesn’t get that far. What happens next has her questioning, did she really know Brad after all? The fallout from this deception is seen through Izzie, Lucy and Bridie’s stories, the impact on their lives, the assumptions that one makes about others (that aren’t always right), and how each navigates loss, relationships, and finding new pathways. I enjoyed this book, and only put it down as I had to work the next day – though finished it the next night. It was the first one I have read from Fiona Lowe, and I’ll now be looking to read her other books. Leticia, QLD, 4 Stars

The Money Club is the second novel that I have read by Fiona Lowe, and it was another great read. Lowe has an interesting way of weaving several stories together and it is enjoyable reading from the perspective of the three main characters. In The Money Club, we follow the stories of Izzy, Lucy and Birdie who live in the small, regional Victorian town of Glingilly. Their lives are thrown into disarray when circumstances lead to all of them losing access to their life savings. It explores the challenges and changes they face and the impact these challenges have on their relationships. Lowe is talented at creating characters that are far from perfect but always relatable. Each of the main characters has their flaws but as we are exposed to each of their stories, we gain insight into their thoughts and feelings and see the motivation behind their actions. The Money Club is the story of family, friendships, betrayal and community, and although despairing at times, it leaves the reader feeling hopeful. I will miss the characters that Lowe has introduced me to and wonder where their lives will take them beyond the novel. I highly recommend this book! Mary-Jo, VIC, 4 Stars

The Money Club sure did show that you can’t trust anybody. When family, fortune, fun, and fraud are all mixed together, there is sure to be an unhappy ending. Poor Izzy for trusting the man she loved, and the family for trusting the son they thought they knew. Don’t count your riches too soon. Sharnee, QL, 4 Stars

Izzy is standing packed and ready to leave but wants to do the right thing by telling her fiancée first. Her chance disappears when she’s confronted by angry neighbours and the police who are convinced she’s involved in the scheme that has robbed so many locals. There follows the story of broken lives and dreams, of struggles and gradual rebuilding. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed The Money Club, surprised by how quickly and thoroughly I was hooked by this story of people and a small town rocked by a Ponzi scheme that collapses, as those things do. Thanks to Harlequin Australia and Better Reading for my preview copy, and to Fiona Lowe for writing such an excellent Aussie domestic drama! Marlies, VIC, 4 Stars

This storyline was very relatable for me as we have had friends who have lost everything. There is a strong theme of loyalty and friendship. Would you invest your money with a friend or a family member? It discusses fractured family relationships as well as friendships. There are a lot of generational differences between characters. I connected with Birdie the most. She was giving advice to her son and daughter-in-law, just as I do to my daughter now. There is an unexpected romance that was so refreshing after everything everyone had gone through. Suzanne, NSW, 4 Stars

The Money Club is a novel about greed, deception and betrayal, and the effects this has on individuals, relationships and the community. Brad Quinn and fiancee Izzy Harrington are living the high life until Brad disappears after fleecing friends and locals of $23 million, leaving his fiancee to face the wrath of the community. I wasn’t sure what to expect of this novel, having not read Fiona Lowe before; however, I was pleasantly surprised and despite an initial ‘this isn’t for me’ moment, I was soon swept into the world of Izzy and the townsfolk of Glingilly. Izzy is more interesting than your average rags-to-riches protagonist, and the supporting characters are well enough drawn that you care for what happens to them. By the end, you are rooting for Izzy, her friend Lucy, husband Jack, and Jack’s parents Bridie and Mike, whose lives have been thrown into turmoil with implications that reach far beyond the financial. This is a long read, but doesn’t feel like it, and I will definitely be seeking out Fiona Lowe’s other works in light of my enjoyment of The Money Club. Marie, ACT, 4 Stars

The Money Club taps into one of our greatest financial fears, being scammed by a Ponzi scheme. This book shares the ripple effect in a town where many families were conned by a local. Lives changed in an instant and the chaos that ensued had some serious consequences. Lowe focuses on two families, the Essens and the Quinns, lifelong friends who end up on either side of the mess created. Isabel Harrington is the girlfriend caught in the middle of the drama. Isabel was the character I most warmed to and her development throughout the story was very well written. Birdie Essen was fun to read. You will recognise many of the characters from your own community and the emotions stirred will feel real. An authentic, modern read. Michelle, QLD, 4 Stars

In this current cost of living crisis, The Money Club is a relatable story of relationships severely damaged by financial stresses. Riddled with wealth, betrayal and intrigue, this novel was hard to put down. The characters were engaging and often relatable. Highly recommended. Juliet, WA, 4 Stars

Not my usual genre, but I’ve been branching out of late. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the book. A bit of mystery, drama and romance thrown in; it had it all. The characters were well-developed and I really enjoyed the interplay within the families and the development of relationships in the story. A good reminder that people aren’t always what they seem. Rowena, TAS, 4 Stars

The Money Club is told through the eyes of three women each experiencing didn’t stages of their life, and how they have been affected when the person they trusted with their money has disappeared. This book is about family, friends and finance. It looks at buying your first home and at superannuation for retirement and juggling work and home life. The story goes into friendship and how we may not really know the people that are close to us. I really enjoyed the book and didn’t want to stop reading, wanting to find out more about each character as they developed through the book. Julie, NSW, 4 Stars

I was not able to put this book down. Really enjoyed the storyline, very apt for what is happening now: people just trying to get ahead and trying to better themselves financially. But you know what they say: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Unfortunately, most people just see the positives and think how their lives will be better. Loved the characters Izzy, Judy, and… well, Birdie, what can I say? Would thoroughly recommend this book and if chosen for your monthly book club read; it certainly would lead to an interesting discussion. Leigh, WA, 4 Stars

It took a while to become engrossed in The Money Club, not being a fan of horse racing, but as the story progressed, it was very hard to be disengaged. The characters are very realistic and faced with true hardship caused by betrayal. Fiona Lowe shows real empathy for the torment of the people who have lost their investments. The relationships between families struggling with finances are highlighted and as the story progresses the true strength of the community emerges. Money no longer matters… life goes on. A very enjoyable novel. Kathy, NSW, 4 Stars

Initially, I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy a book that seemed to be about horse racing and money-making schemes. How wrong I was. I quickly became totally engrossed in this fabulous story about relationships, friendships, family dynamics and business dealings, as well as the intricacies of money-making schemes and how, when the “money club” is not as originally perceived, the lives of all involved are changed… and not always in the way we’d expect. It’s a page-turner about relationships, betrayal, greed, misunderstandings, and forgiveness. I really enjoyed The Money Club. A great story, a topical and relateable storyline, and believable characters. Judy, NSW, 4 Stars

A ripping yarn that is pertinent to our times, particularly in the light of a Ponzi scheme of late in Australia. It makes you think of the victims behind the headlines and the lasting effects it has on them once the sensationalism has died down. However, the novel is more than that: it spotlights the complexities in relationships and the masks we all wear to the outside world. It also makes the reader question just how well we know our family and friends. The Money Club is a salute to the inner strength women might not even know they possess. In other words, it’s like an onion with many layers, and like an onion can make you cry. Another winner by Fiona Lowe. Susan, NSW, 4 Stars

I only discovered Fiona Lowe last year; she’s much better than I expected from scanning the blurbs. This is is a solid drama, with good dialogue and entertaining plot diversions. Best for chicklit fans. Christina, WA, 4 Stars

Two days. That is all it took for me to finish the 508 pages of The Money Club by Australian author, Fiona Lowe. Needless to say, I could not put it down. Each character’s innermost thoughts and experiences are portrayed perfectly by Fiona Lowe to tell an emotionally charged story about the willingness of everyday people to trust those closest to them, only to be let down. How they forge together to work through their deepest hardships makes this read one in which the reader is forced to question their own lifestyle and consider at what point the quest for a richer lifestyle overtakes the quest for a happier one. The Money Club is a captivating story, investigating relationships and issues in a small town in the modern world. Jess, NSW, 4 Stars

Found this a bit slow to start but once you got into it there were plenty of twists and turns to keep it interesting. Nicky, NSW, 4 Stars

Fiona Lowe provides a gripping and realistic tale of greed and the ripple effects of deceit and betrayal by someone close. It contains believable characters and relationships based on preconceived opinions, further exacerbated by the stress of deceit, betrayal, financial ruin, and trying to pick up the pieces. The characters’ growth in overcoming the hand dealt them is insightful and relatable. Nothing is worse than thinking you know everything about your friends and family only to discover you don’t. This entertaining read proves that the grass isn’t always greener. Charmaine, QLD, 4 Stars

This is a hard-to-put-down book, which I read quickly. The first part of the book introduces the characters and the lavish lifestyle they are living in Victoria once they have joined a too good to be true investment scheme being organised by the son of one of the couples. It is a Ponzi scheme, which of course fails, and the money “disappears”. The remainder of the book examines the relationships of each couple, both with each other and the other main couples. We experience their pain in dealing with financial stress, and journey with them as they start to rebuild their lives. The story concentrates on three generations of one family, and the abandoned fiancée of the conman. There are some details about the actual investment strategy if the reader is interested, or it can be glossed over. This would make a good Book Club selection and comes with discussion questions at the end. Sue, WA, 4 Stars

The Money Club is a great read, showing us that greed can override logic in even the most educated people. In the small community of Glingilly, a number of residents invest their money in a horse racing Ponzi scheme that collapses and subsequently leaves an emotional and financial train wreck. The community is suffering, relationships are shattered and trust has taken a nosedive. I particularly liked the strength some of the female characters displayed after the realisation that all their money was stolen; Birdie and Lucy were great characters that grew throughout the book. The old adage “something seems too good to be true” rings loud and clear in this novel! Good, easy book to read, keeping the reader interested throughout the journey Fiona Lowe takes us on! Ilona, VIC, 4 Stars

Behind every successful man there’s a woman and this one’s name is Izzy Harrington. Glamourous, living the caviar lifestyle, events manager Izzy is packed and ready to leave her fiancé Brad Quinn and their French Provincial mansion when his horse racing Ponzi scheme victims are fleeced $23 million and Brad disappears. It seems their role-playing wasn’t limited to the bedroom and Izzy becomes more than ‘a person of interest’ to the police and the town. Glingilly is a regional Victorian town where socially you’re either a mum or a matron. Or vilified these days as a gullible or greedy victim whose every misstep goes viral. Looking at the life of the scammed, where losses aren’t limited to financial, The Money Club deserves plenty of interest! Anita, QLD, 4 Stars

An intriguing read about how money and greed can come between friendship and family. The novel revolves around three main characters and their families: Izzy, Lucy and Birdie. Together with their families and friends, they are drawn into a world full of opportunity and hope only to be let down from Izzy’s Fiancé, Brad who is the ‘ring leader’ of the Elite Money Club. The first half of the novel was quite in-depth in explaining the financial side of the Money Club through the characters’ participation in events and describing the connection between them. It was at this point that I as a reader could feel the toxicity and negativity of what was to come. The second half of the book is about the acceptance of what has happened and dealing with the future and also making amends and regaining the trust of friends and family. It is a very well-written book and makes you feel what the characters are going through. Two thumbs up. Raffaela, VIC, 3 Stars

I wasn’t too sure if I’d enjoy this book or not. I was expecting the excess money to be a bit off-putting, which it initially was, but then the story took over… It ended up being somewhat of a surprise, and even some characters who initially grated on me (not Izzy by the way!) managed to become way more bearable through the course of the book. Ayesha, NSW, 3 Stars

While not my usual kind of book to choose, I did enjoy the character of Izzy; she was real, down-to-earth and very relatable. I did find the book a little slow and perhaps repetitive to start with, then it heated up with a twist, then slowed again, and then had a great ending. would recommend the book to anyone, if you can persevere through the slow patches it does come together in the end. I would be interested to read another Fiona Lowe book in the future. Kym, WA, 3 Stars

Having never heard of this author before, I was excited to experience her writing style. This was an easy and enjoyable read. Her take on the family dynamics of the three main characters, Izzy, Lucy and Birdie, their relationships, and how they perceive and react to the situation they are placed in is thought-provoking, with each feeling like they are the victim and not wanting to accept responsibility for their decisions when things go wrong. As I was reading, I was imagining how I would react under similar circumstances. Theresa, NSW, 3 Stars

The Money Club was a very enjoyable read. The characters were interesting and believable and the synopsis was well thought out. At times, it did feel a little drawn out but there was usually a chapter full of action or intrigue to balance the somewhat more tedious parts of the book out. Lowe’s latest book is bound to appeal to a wide range of readers. It has a little bit of everything: crime, drama, romance, and an occasional burst of humour to balance out some of the darker themes. Overall, a good book and an interesting insight into the world of fraud. Penelope, QLD, 3 Stars

I started off reading this and found it a bit hard to get into. I found all the characters a bit shallow and hard to like. When I was 3/4 in though I started enjoying it a bit more, especially as the characters evolved. It didn’t really do that much for me personally. Eltica, QLD, 2 Stars

Buy a copy of The Money Club here.