What do you think?
Rate this book
Ninja School Mum
Obsessive-compulsive school mum, Skye, is a lonely elite spy, who is running from her past whilst trying to protect the future of her child. She tries hard to fit in with the other parents at her son’s new school, but the only person who accepts her unconventional way of life is new mother, Thea.
Thea is feeling harassed by her sister and bored with her life, but she suspects that there is something strange about the new school mum, Skye. Thea has secrets of her own and, although the two become unlikely friends, she hesitates to tell Skye about the father of her own child.
Zack’s new business is growing faster than he could have dreamed but, suddenly, he finds himself the owner of a crumbling estate on the edge of a pretty village, and a single parent to a very demanding child. Could he make a go of things and give his daughter the life she deserved?
When three lives collide, it appears that only one of them is who they seem to be, and you never know who the person next to you in the school playground really is.
Thea is feeling harassed by her sister and bored with her life, but she suspects that there is something strange about the new school mum, Skye. Thea has secrets of her own and, although the two become unlikely friends, she hesitates to tell Skye about the father of her own child.
Zack’s new business is growing faster than he could have dreamed but, suddenly, he finds himself the owner of a crumbling estate on the edge of a pretty village, and a single parent to a very demanding child. Could he make a go of things and give his daughter the life she deserved?
When three lives collide, it appears that only one of them is who they seem to be, and you never know who the person next to you in the school playground really is.
310 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2018
116 people are currently reading
688 people want to read
About the author
Lizzie Chantree
20 books346 followersInternational bestselling author, award-winning inventor and product designer, Lizzie Chantree, has been featured on television and radio. She discovered her love of writing fiction when her children were little and now writes books full of friendship and laughter, that are about women who are far stronger than they realise. Lizzie has recently combined her love of writing and design by launching a range of sustainable book and writing-themed fashion and homewares, that are being worn and displayed by influencers, worldwide. She lives with her family on the coast in Essex. Visit her website at lizziechantree.com or follow her on Twitter, @Lizzie_Chantree
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 5, 2018
5☆ SOOO much fun! - Highly recommend!
Ninja School Mum was absolutely Brilliant!
I thoroughly enjoyed It, and read it in one day!
Don't be fooled by the Title this story has a lil of everything, a bully, the Mum Scrum of the playground, lots of secrets, romance, heartbreaking pasts, mystery, lots of fun, it was fresh and action packed.
When Skye meets Thea in a boutique changing room their lives are about to change forever.
Skye's Son Leo is being bullied by Miles the class bully. She finds out so is Thea's niece Allie is also being bullied by him. So she sets up a Ninja School to teach the kids how to dodge Miles nasty behaviour.
You see Skye is hiding plenty of secrets.
Thea comes across as a bit ditzy and with no confidence. But Thea is also hiding a Big Secret!
Was destiny meant for them to meet!!
Oh and then there is the very Sexy yet stand offish Zack who owns a tree climbing business and creates Apps.
He is a single parent too and little Emmie literally runs rings around him. But she too is being bullied by Miles.
But Mile's Mum Belle is desperate to get her claws into Zack. It's actually embarrassing!
Zack and Skye don't get off on the right foot. But there is clearly a big spark as he intrigues her!
Ohhh I loved this book so much, all the lil secrets I can't tell you for risk of giving away spoilers.
If there is one book you pick up this year that you can get lost in, such a easy fun read, that has hidden depths, then let it be...... Ninja School Mum!!
I wanted more!
I hope there will be more!
Highly recommend!
Thank you to Brook Cottage for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my blog website, Plus a Sneak Peak Extract & Giveaway:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Ninja School Mum was absolutely Brilliant!
I thoroughly enjoyed It, and read it in one day!
Don't be fooled by the Title this story has a lil of everything, a bully, the Mum Scrum of the playground, lots of secrets, romance, heartbreaking pasts, mystery, lots of fun, it was fresh and action packed.
When Skye meets Thea in a boutique changing room their lives are about to change forever.
Skye's Son Leo is being bullied by Miles the class bully. She finds out so is Thea's niece Allie is also being bullied by him. So she sets up a Ninja School to teach the kids how to dodge Miles nasty behaviour.
You see Skye is hiding plenty of secrets.
Thea comes across as a bit ditzy and with no confidence. But Thea is also hiding a Big Secret!
Was destiny meant for them to meet!!
Oh and then there is the very Sexy yet stand offish Zack who owns a tree climbing business and creates Apps.
He is a single parent too and little Emmie literally runs rings around him. But she too is being bullied by Miles.
But Mile's Mum Belle is desperate to get her claws into Zack. It's actually embarrassing!
Zack and Skye don't get off on the right foot. But there is clearly a big spark as he intrigues her!
Ohhh I loved this book so much, all the lil secrets I can't tell you for risk of giving away spoilers.
If there is one book you pick up this year that you can get lost in, such a easy fun read, that has hidden depths, then let it be...... Ninja School Mum!!
I wanted more!
I hope there will be more!
Highly recommend!
Thank you to Brook Cottage for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my blog website, Plus a Sneak Peak Extract & Giveaway:
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
April 29, 2018
One word. Exceptional. 5☆ Highly recommend. This is one of those books that’s unputdownable with a fabulous storyline!! An excellent read.
Loved it so much I’m excited to read Lizzie Chantrees’s next release, “If You Love Me, I’m Yours” out July 9. 💛
Loved it so much I’m excited to read Lizzie Chantrees’s next release, “If You Love Me, I’m Yours” out July 9. 💛
February 17, 2018
DNF at 39%.
I lurved the blurb for this book, a small English village in which a former spy, a former spy handler and the lord of the manor, three school children and a baby all converge at the school gate.
Unfortunately the book didn't live up to its potential. There was a weird dichotomy in that the two main female characters Skye and Leah are full of mystery, the reader doesn't know quite what they are or who they work for. Yet Zack's every lifetime achievement is described in mind-numbing detail. I made three or four notes as I was reading that there was too much telling and not enough sharing.
One third of the way through this book I had no idea what genre of book I was reading: was it a village romance? Was it a spy comedy? Was it a Mummy revenge comedy? Was it even supposed to be funny? Was there a massive plot twist?
This read to me like either a writer who wasn't comfortable getting into the psyche of a man and/ or is not a native English speaker.
I feel disappointed because I really liked the sound of this but the way it was written was too turgid, too boring, there was too much that was assumed/ unsaid. I would like to see this totally rewritten because I think the ideas were good - it was the execution which failed.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I lurved the blurb for this book, a small English village in which a former spy, a former spy handler and the lord of the manor, three school children and a baby all converge at the school gate.
Unfortunately the book didn't live up to its potential. There was a weird dichotomy in that the two main female characters Skye and Leah are full of mystery, the reader doesn't know quite what they are or who they work for. Yet Zack's every lifetime achievement is described in mind-numbing detail. I made three or four notes as I was reading that there was too much telling and not enough sharing.
One third of the way through this book I had no idea what genre of book I was reading: was it a village romance? Was it a spy comedy? Was it a Mummy revenge comedy? Was it even supposed to be funny? Was there a massive plot twist?
This read to me like either a writer who wasn't comfortable getting into the psyche of a man and/ or is not a native English speaker.
I feel disappointed because I really liked the sound of this but the way it was written was too turgid, too boring, there was too much that was assumed/ unsaid. I would like to see this totally rewritten because I think the ideas were good - it was the execution which failed.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 19, 2018
This book opens with a typical mum, Skye, waiting at the school gates for her little boy, Leo.
Thea, another mother, is waiting there too, but that is where the similarity ends. She has a child and is secretive about her past.
By the end of chapter four, I discover that Skye is not who she claims to be either, something to do with the death of her husband Reece.
As they become friends, we gradually begin to learn more about these two women, but something doesn’t add up, what are they not telling us or each other?
The book seems to concentrate on Skye as the main character, but I was already guessing she might not be the only one. This mysterious element winds its way around everyone, creating a lovely guessing game. Even when bits of the truth are revealed, your mind refuses to believe them at first.
This book has everything, mystery, danger and humour. The relationship between the two women was believable and well written, as was the love affair between Skye and Zack.
This story moves smoothly between all these fascinating characters, as they evade the truth like experts, always managing to keep back important details.
A complex and compelling style of writing from Lizzie Chantree, I will be reading much more of her work!
Thea, another mother, is waiting there too, but that is where the similarity ends. She has a child and is secretive about her past.
By the end of chapter four, I discover that Skye is not who she claims to be either, something to do with the death of her husband Reece.
As they become friends, we gradually begin to learn more about these two women, but something doesn’t add up, what are they not telling us or each other?
The book seems to concentrate on Skye as the main character, but I was already guessing she might not be the only one. This mysterious element winds its way around everyone, creating a lovely guessing game. Even when bits of the truth are revealed, your mind refuses to believe them at first.
This book has everything, mystery, danger and humour. The relationship between the two women was believable and well written, as was the love affair between Skye and Zack.
This story moves smoothly between all these fascinating characters, as they evade the truth like experts, always managing to keep back important details.
A complex and compelling style of writing from Lizzie Chantree, I will be reading much more of her work!
February 12, 2018
Skye and her little boy are such a delight – feisty, brave and ready to “flip the bird” at the rest of the world.
Yet Skye has a secret that is only revealed as the book goes on – I liked how her past story was revealed piece by piece, leaving the reader guessing until the end.
There’s much to enjoy in “Ninja School Mum” which isn’t all simply romance. Skye is lonely – and that isn’t helped by being ignored by the other mothers at the school gates; bullying also rears its ugly head; Skye is a loyal friend – as her new friend Thea discovers; and there is romance – with lovely Zack who also has his demons to fight.
I thoroughly recommend this novel – that combines lots of humour with the hard-hitting subjects of bullying and loneliness. The characters are memorable and I’d love to have Skye as a friend.
Yet Skye has a secret that is only revealed as the book goes on – I liked how her past story was revealed piece by piece, leaving the reader guessing until the end.
There’s much to enjoy in “Ninja School Mum” which isn’t all simply romance. Skye is lonely – and that isn’t helped by being ignored by the other mothers at the school gates; bullying also rears its ugly head; Skye is a loyal friend – as her new friend Thea discovers; and there is romance – with lovely Zack who also has his demons to fight.
I thoroughly recommend this novel – that combines lots of humour with the hard-hitting subjects of bullying and loneliness. The characters are memorable and I’d love to have Skye as a friend.
February 11, 2018
I loved reading this book. The characters were compelling and the story kept me reading long past the end of my lunch break!
I won't go into detail for fear of spoilers, but would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a combination of mystery, thriller and romance.
I won't go into detail for fear of spoilers, but would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a combination of mystery, thriller and romance.
January 19, 2018
This book opens with a typical mum, Skye, waiting at the school gates for her little boy, Leo.
Thea, another mother, is waiting there too, but that is where the similarity ends. She has a child and is secretive about her past.
By the end of chapter four, I discover that Skye is not who she claims to be either, something to do with the death of her husband Reece.
As they become friends, we gradually begin to learn more about these two women, but something doesn’t add up, what are they not telling us or each other?
The book seems to concentrate on Skye as the main character, but I was already guessing she might not be the only one. This mysterious element winds its way around everyone, creating a lovely guessing game. Even when bits of the truth are revealed, your mind refuses to believe them at first.
This book has everything, mystery, danger and humour. The relationship between the two women was believable and well written, as was the love affair between Skye and Zack.
This story moves smoothly between all these fascinating characters, as they evade the truth like experts, always managing to keep back important details.
A complex and compelling style of writing from Lizzie Chantree, I will be reading much more of her work!
Thea, another mother, is waiting there too, but that is where the similarity ends. She has a child and is secretive about her past.
By the end of chapter four, I discover that Skye is not who she claims to be either, something to do with the death of her husband Reece.
As they become friends, we gradually begin to learn more about these two women, but something doesn’t add up, what are they not telling us or each other?
The book seems to concentrate on Skye as the main character, but I was already guessing she might not be the only one. This mysterious element winds its way around everyone, creating a lovely guessing game. Even when bits of the truth are revealed, your mind refuses to believe them at first.
This book has everything, mystery, danger and humour. The relationship between the two women was believable and well written, as was the love affair between Skye and Zack.
This story moves smoothly between all these fascinating characters, as they evade the truth like experts, always managing to keep back important details.
A complex and compelling style of writing from Lizzie Chantree, I will be reading much more of her work!
February 7, 2018
Of all the books I have read by Lizzie Chantree, I think this one is the best so far.
The book cover is great, an eye-catching use of bold colours and images which really stands out.
The plot is well written and the characters are relatable. I'm sure we all have a "Mirror-Ball' in our lives, whether we want one or not!
(It's a person... you'll have to read the book to find out).
A sweet romantic mystery with danger, humour, and a twist you won't see coming.
The book cover is great, an eye-catching use of bold colours and images which really stands out.
The plot is well written and the characters are relatable. I'm sure we all have a "Mirror-Ball' in our lives, whether we want one or not!
(It's a person... you'll have to read the book to find out).
A sweet romantic mystery with danger, humour, and a twist you won't see coming.
May 21, 2018
Have you ever picked up a book, not expecting too much from it, but finishing it delighted that you read it? This is how I felt about Ninja School Mum. I will put my cards on the table, I bought it because I consider the author, Lizzie Chantree, to be a friend. However, as is well known, I always try to make my reviews as honest as possible, friend or no!
Ninja School Mum is not like any other book I have ever read. The main protagonist is Skye: she is most protective of her son and comes across as rather OCD and it becomes clear why. She is a lonely woman with an interesting past as an elite spy. She is trying to escape her past as well as protecting her son. Skye tries hard to fit in with the other parents at his new school,. However, although it is difficult to be accepted, one person accepts her way of life. This is a new mother, Thea.
Thea feels harassed by her sister and is bored with her life. Nevertheless, Thea suspects that there is something strange about, Skye, but she has secrets of her own and, although the two become friends, she does not immediately tell Skye about the father of her own child.
Then there is Zack. His new business is growing faster than he expected. However when Zack finds himself the owner of a crumbling estate in a pretty village, and also a single parent to a very demanding child, he hopes he can give his daughter the life she deserves.
These three lives collide, it becomes apparent that you never know who the person next to you in the playground really is. Ninja School Mum really caught my imagination. It is a fine romance with fire in its belly and it kept me guessing right to the end. This is an excellent novel that I thoroughly enjoyed and it would be a good book club choice.
The author, Lizzie Chantree is an award-winning inventor and author who started her own business at the age of eighteen and became one of Fair Play London and The Patent Office's British Female Inventors of the year in 2000. She discovered her love of writing fiction when her children were little and now runs networking hours on social media, where creative businesses, writers, photographers and designers can offer advice and support to each other. She lives with her family on the coast in Essex.
Val Penny
Ninja School Mum is not like any other book I have ever read. The main protagonist is Skye: she is most protective of her son and comes across as rather OCD and it becomes clear why. She is a lonely woman with an interesting past as an elite spy. She is trying to escape her past as well as protecting her son. Skye tries hard to fit in with the other parents at his new school,. However, although it is difficult to be accepted, one person accepts her way of life. This is a new mother, Thea.
Thea feels harassed by her sister and is bored with her life. Nevertheless, Thea suspects that there is something strange about, Skye, but she has secrets of her own and, although the two become friends, she does not immediately tell Skye about the father of her own child.
Then there is Zack. His new business is growing faster than he expected. However when Zack finds himself the owner of a crumbling estate in a pretty village, and also a single parent to a very demanding child, he hopes he can give his daughter the life she deserves.
These three lives collide, it becomes apparent that you never know who the person next to you in the playground really is. Ninja School Mum really caught my imagination. It is a fine romance with fire in its belly and it kept me guessing right to the end. This is an excellent novel that I thoroughly enjoyed and it would be a good book club choice.
The author, Lizzie Chantree is an award-winning inventor and author who started her own business at the age of eighteen and became one of Fair Play London and The Patent Office's British Female Inventors of the year in 2000. She discovered her love of writing fiction when her children were little and now runs networking hours on social media, where creative businesses, writers, photographers and designers can offer advice and support to each other. She lives with her family on the coast in Essex.
Val Penny
February 26, 2018
Skye, a widowed single mother, moves to town for a fresh start. She makes friends with Thea, another single mom, and meets Zack, a potential love interest. She helps her young son and his friends who are terrorized by the school bully through the self-defense classes she teaches.
But all is not what it seems and that’s what makes this book tick nicely. Skye, a former elite spy, has a secretive past. Her new friend has her own. And somehow there is a connection.
I liked the way author Lizzie Chantree skillfully dropped clues, and then when I thought I had it all figured out, she artfully threw in a plot twist that was as unexpected as one of Skye’s ninja-like moves. (I’m not spoiling it.)
Thanks, Lizzie, for an engaging character in Skye and for taking me on a fun escape.
But all is not what it seems and that’s what makes this book tick nicely. Skye, a former elite spy, has a secretive past. Her new friend has her own. And somehow there is a connection.
I liked the way author Lizzie Chantree skillfully dropped clues, and then when I thought I had it all figured out, she artfully threw in a plot twist that was as unexpected as one of Skye’s ninja-like moves. (I’m not spoiling it.)
Thanks, Lizzie, for an engaging character in Skye and for taking me on a fun escape.
March 9, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I LOVED this book!!
It was brilliant, so well written and heaps of fun! The plot is great and I nearly woke the baby up laughing when I was reading it in bed - such a brilliant pick me up for when you are feeing down. Skye is a brilliant character!
It has ups and downs and takes you through a wide range of emotions to give an excellent all round story - no hesitation in giving it 5 stars!!
I LOVED this book!!
It was brilliant, so well written and heaps of fun! The plot is great and I nearly woke the baby up laughing when I was reading it in bed - such a brilliant pick me up for when you are feeing down. Skye is a brilliant character!
It has ups and downs and takes you through a wide range of emotions to give an excellent all round story - no hesitation in giving it 5 stars!!
April 11, 2018
I believe we are all a little wary of stepping outside our usual reading comfort zone. I wasn’t certain what to expect when I sat down to read this book.
What I found within its pages was pure entertainment. Author Lizzie Chantree has gifted the reader with some marvelous characterizations.
The stand out for me was Skye. I love strong female characters, especially those who stand tall and fight back. Skye is a wonderfully blended character. The author has woven her with a fine hand and a keen observation of human behavior. Skye has a delicious sense of humor and times of intense tenderness. I fell for the character totally.
This author has introduced us to the others such a Thea and Zack, and allowed us to both visualize and hear them. A perfect example of, show … don’t tell.
I laughed often during this read, only to find myself suddenly thrust into a world where survival comes at a cost.
The twist caught me unprepared! That in itself made the book worth reading.
Author Lizzie Chantree has a winning combination in this her latest book.
I found it utterly captivating and intensely readable.
What I found within its pages was pure entertainment. Author Lizzie Chantree has gifted the reader with some marvelous characterizations.
The stand out for me was Skye. I love strong female characters, especially those who stand tall and fight back. Skye is a wonderfully blended character. The author has woven her with a fine hand and a keen observation of human behavior. Skye has a delicious sense of humor and times of intense tenderness. I fell for the character totally.
This author has introduced us to the others such a Thea and Zack, and allowed us to both visualize and hear them. A perfect example of, show … don’t tell.
I laughed often during this read, only to find myself suddenly thrust into a world where survival comes at a cost.
The twist caught me unprepared! That in itself made the book worth reading.
Author Lizzie Chantree has a winning combination in this her latest book.
I found it utterly captivating and intensely readable.
February 19, 2018
Ninja School Mum is as funny as the title. The story is over the funny with action, romance and mystery readers will enjoy as they shut the door of reality. The story is fun, imaginative and while the story isn't perfect and sometimes left this reader a little confused.
Ninja School Mum is worth a few hours of fun. Not to mention if you are a parent who has dealt with schools yards, playground and play dates this story will make you laugh out loud.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Crooked Cat Books for my Copy.
Ninja School Mum is worth a few hours of fun. Not to mention if you are a parent who has dealt with schools yards, playground and play dates this story will make you laugh out loud.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Crooked Cat Books for my Copy.
February 4, 2018
Clever, colourful and oh so gripping!
I just loved this book. A very cleverly executed story set against the beguiling backdrop of cliquey school mums and a tree climbing business. Unique characters and wonderfully descriptive language make for a very different novel bursting with characters full of verve and je ne sais quoi...
I just loved this book. A very cleverly executed story set against the beguiling backdrop of cliquey school mums and a tree climbing business. Unique characters and wonderfully descriptive language make for a very different novel bursting with characters full of verve and je ne sais quoi...
August 27, 2018
Obsessive-compulsive school mum, Skye, is hiding a big secret. She’s trying to carve out a normal life for the sake of her son, but it doesn’t come easy after years on the run. When she dares to make a friend, it turns out Thea has secrets of her own. And then there is Zack, the ruggedly handsome and super intelligent (not to mention rich) single father who owns the estate where Skye rents a cottage.
I was drawn to this book by the title, blurb and the cover, and found it a strangely compelling read, despite how slow the plot is to develop. The characters drew me in, which is pretty impressive considering I’m not very child-oriented, and a lot of the first third is about school and kids and dealing with a bully. I did spend a lot of the first third wondering where the Ninja spy bit fitted into what seemed to be a small village school story.
Once the backstories of the various players start coming out, the depth of the book increases dramatically, and I really wanted to know how these threads would resolve. The hint of a threat here and there is just enough to keep stoking an edge of tension, though if it had appeared earlier in the book it might have been better.
The writing is a naïve style, often using asides and slang from everyday language, but not the sort of thing one usually puts into a book. I found this at time refreshing (when it injected humour) and at times irritating. I also had an issue with the over-use of past perfect tense (‘she had had an experience’, for example) – not because of incorrect use, but because there was often no reason to use it, and distanced the reading experience from the action. My biggest bugbear was the pivotal scene where two of the characters finally get it together, and it’s all reported in past perfect! I wanted immediate! It would have had so much more impact in good old past tense.
I certainly didn’t see the twist coming, and I felt both impressed and a bit cheated by the way it had been concealed. Nor did I expect an ending that barely resolves anything, although it does explain it. Perhaps this is a good thing, because it was as messy and open-ended as real-life often is with such complicated relationships, I was just a bit surprised as I’d expected a neat wrap up.
Overall, I feel it has good potential but could really do with a serious amount of copy editing to turn it into the book it deserves to be.
I was drawn to this book by the title, blurb and the cover, and found it a strangely compelling read, despite how slow the plot is to develop. The characters drew me in, which is pretty impressive considering I’m not very child-oriented, and a lot of the first third is about school and kids and dealing with a bully. I did spend a lot of the first third wondering where the Ninja spy bit fitted into what seemed to be a small village school story.
Once the backstories of the various players start coming out, the depth of the book increases dramatically, and I really wanted to know how these threads would resolve. The hint of a threat here and there is just enough to keep stoking an edge of tension, though if it had appeared earlier in the book it might have been better.
The writing is a naïve style, often using asides and slang from everyday language, but not the sort of thing one usually puts into a book. I found this at time refreshing (when it injected humour) and at times irritating. I also had an issue with the over-use of past perfect tense (‘she had had an experience’, for example) – not because of incorrect use, but because there was often no reason to use it, and distanced the reading experience from the action. My biggest bugbear was the pivotal scene where two of the characters finally get it together, and it’s all reported in past perfect! I wanted immediate! It would have had so much more impact in good old past tense.
I certainly didn’t see the twist coming, and I felt both impressed and a bit cheated by the way it had been concealed. Nor did I expect an ending that barely resolves anything, although it does explain it. Perhaps this is a good thing, because it was as messy and open-ended as real-life often is with such complicated relationships, I was just a bit surprised as I’d expected a neat wrap up.
Overall, I feel it has good potential but could really do with a serious amount of copy editing to turn it into the book it deserves to be.
May 15, 2018
3.5 stars
The cover is very cool. I love the colour contrast and the silhouette. It drew me in to find out more and the premise of the story really appealed. Who can resist a spy story!
There is a lot to like about this book. The characters are colourful and have plenty of secrets between them. Skye, Thea and Zack are well drawn and likeable, though you know they have secrets and you have to read on to find out what is really going on.
The spy part of the plot is important, but perhaps not featured enough. I would have loved to relive some of the backstory through flashbacks.
One of my favourite parts were the unusual business ideas; Skye starts up a self-defence class for children to avoid the school bully, while Zack runs Cloud Climb on his estate, which also sounds like a great idea if you like heights!
For me there were a few issues with this book. The chapters are told from each character's viewpoints, which I liked, but I did find there were times when we head hopped between characters thoughts. This confused the narrative and I was sometimes left wondering who had been thinking what.
There is a lot of back story that needs to be revealed to the reader, which is understandable for the plot and as I mentioned above I think we could have used a few flashbacks to get the information across in a more involving way. I also thought some of the scenes in the present could have been shown more as there was too much tell and character reflection on things that had just happened. I think the book could have, and should have, been longer - I certainly wouldn't mind spending longer with these characters and really get to know them better.
There are a few twists towards the end, some of which took me by surprise - always a good thing. But for me the ending was underwhelming and I would have liked something more dramatic for these great characters.
The cover is very cool. I love the colour contrast and the silhouette. It drew me in to find out more and the premise of the story really appealed. Who can resist a spy story!
There is a lot to like about this book. The characters are colourful and have plenty of secrets between them. Skye, Thea and Zack are well drawn and likeable, though you know they have secrets and you have to read on to find out what is really going on.
The spy part of the plot is important, but perhaps not featured enough. I would have loved to relive some of the backstory through flashbacks.
One of my favourite parts were the unusual business ideas; Skye starts up a self-defence class for children to avoid the school bully, while Zack runs Cloud Climb on his estate, which also sounds like a great idea if you like heights!
For me there were a few issues with this book. The chapters are told from each character's viewpoints, which I liked, but I did find there were times when we head hopped between characters thoughts. This confused the narrative and I was sometimes left wondering who had been thinking what.
There is a lot of back story that needs to be revealed to the reader, which is understandable for the plot and as I mentioned above I think we could have used a few flashbacks to get the information across in a more involving way. I also thought some of the scenes in the present could have been shown more as there was too much tell and character reflection on things that had just happened. I think the book could have, and should have, been longer - I certainly wouldn't mind spending longer with these characters and really get to know them better.
There are a few twists towards the end, some of which took me by surprise - always a good thing. But for me the ending was underwhelming and I would have liked something more dramatic for these great characters.
March 21, 2018
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
A light romance which is well paced but is spoilt by a weak ending.
A light romance which is well paced but is spoilt by a weak ending.
April 2, 2018
“Ninja School Mum” is about a widowed mother named Skye who has been on the run for years to keep her son safe from her past. As an ex-spy she needed to keep her former life to herself. She ends up living in a quaint small town in an isolated cottage with her son. I found it interesting to learn her history and why she stayed separate from others yet making sure her son developed friendships. The relationships between adults and children were well-done, including Skye’s new friendship with Thea and her unexpected love interest, Zack. It seemed like she might have finally found a place for her son to grow up. What I expected to happen in this story and what did, were completely different when a twist offered a new insight. I love when a story surprises me, and this one did. If you enjoy a romance with humor, action, a strong female character, and surprises--you’ll love this book!
December 30, 2017
An enjoyable romance with an unexpected twist towards the end. Light-hearted, amusing and fun. The characters are well rounded, and engaging - my favourites are Skye, Thea and Zack. In my opinion this quick read would appeal to mums and dads who have been excluded from playground cliques and friendship groups and who would like to have some ninja skills to deal with certain people! So very relatable.
My recommendation - 4 stars - Particularly recommended for those who enjoy their romance with a sprinkling of humour, and a touch of sauciness but not too much!
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy for a honest review. All opinions are my own.
Read as part of #ABRSC read and review group for independent authors.
My recommendation - 4 stars - Particularly recommended for those who enjoy their romance with a sprinkling of humour, and a touch of sauciness but not too much!
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy for a honest review. All opinions are my own.
Read as part of #ABRSC read and review group for independent authors.
March 13, 2018
What a fast paced, action packed fun read. Chick lit meets espionage, made this unputdownable. Skye, mum to Leo had continuously moved to avoid being found. They eventually find a place to settle, add a bit of adventure, new friendships and romance and everything is as it should be or is it? The author’s writing style pulled me in from the beginning and I didn’t want it to end.
A fab book.
A must read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A fab book.
A must read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2018
loved this book. From the striking front cover, I expected a fast, exciting read and that's what I got with a bit of romance, plenty of intrigue, and feisty characters. The story wove an intricate plot until the very end and was littered with humour. I loved the relationship between Skye and Thea and this was the book's strength in my eyes and would love to read more about them. Looking forward to the next book by Lizzie Chantree.
February 22, 2018
Loved this book! It's jam packed full of romance, laugh out loud moments and I had no idea of how it would end and was so surprised! Gorgeous sexy men and strong minded woman, make this a really fun read. It's got playground gossip, friendship and romance. All you need for the perfect chick lit, rom com. Can't wait for another book by this author.
February 28, 2018
Skye is a strong woman who has had to go from city to city, hiding from those she fear will kill her and her son. There are interesting twists and turns to this amazing well-written book. There was one surprise to the plot that brought all the events together.
Congratulations, Lizzie.
Congratulations, Lizzie.
March 6, 2018
Brilliant fun read with characters you care about /want to be! Good depth to the plot and a really intriguing story. Well written and highly rec.
August 27, 2023
I've read a good few of the more recent releases by Lizzie Chantree and finally got around to reading one of her earliest novels, Ninja School Mum.
Skye is a widowed mother in the run, so it seems, from something dark. She has skills that she needs to hide, but they become more and more apparent as she navigates her son being bullied by a child in his school.
Another carer is facing similar problems, and slowly, they forge a friendship that is the start of more for the children.
Skye's landlord is a single father and seems pretty unapproachable. However, somehow, their paths cross in a more personal way, sparking a romance that Skye never thought she would be ready for.
Then we have some big twists and turns as secrets are unveiled and old faces come out of the shadows.
I enjoyed the unravelling of mysteries in this story and read it quickly!
Skye is a widowed mother in the run, so it seems, from something dark. She has skills that she needs to hide, but they become more and more apparent as she navigates her son being bullied by a child in his school.
Another carer is facing similar problems, and slowly, they forge a friendship that is the start of more for the children.
Skye's landlord is a single father and seems pretty unapproachable. However, somehow, their paths cross in a more personal way, sparking a romance that Skye never thought she would be ready for.
Then we have some big twists and turns as secrets are unveiled and old faces come out of the shadows.
I enjoyed the unravelling of mysteries in this story and read it quickly!
February 22, 2018
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
March 13, 2018
After reading the description for this book it's safe to say I was very intrigued and I'm not really sure what I expected when I started reading. The main thing about this story was how entertaining it was there really was a little bit of everything to keep me engaged. With friendships, romance and family all being themes aswell as a few other surprises along the way. I'm trying to be quite vague about the plot as I really don't want to spoil any of the twists in this book what I will say is that I didn't want to put this book down. There is a lovely humour within the book that is mainly down to Skye's fabulous character. She really is just so likeable especially as she tries to navigate her way through life at her son's new school.
The characters are developed well and I loved the flirty interactions between Skye and Zack. There is a great mystery at the heart of this book and I couldn't wait to find out what was really going on. The pace is pretty good with bits and pieces being revealed to keep me on my toes. I had to smile at the circle of mums at the school I think you will find one of them in every playground.
Ninja School Mum is a fun and mysterious story with a hint of romance!
Four stars from me!
With thanks to Brook Cottage Books for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The characters are developed well and I loved the flirty interactions between Skye and Zack. There is a great mystery at the heart of this book and I couldn't wait to find out what was really going on. The pace is pretty good with bits and pieces being revealed to keep me on my toes. I had to smile at the circle of mums at the school I think you will find one of them in every playground.
Ninja School Mum is a fun and mysterious story with a hint of romance!
Four stars from me!
With thanks to Brook Cottage Books for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
May 28, 2018
This was a fun and suspenseful story of a retired secret agent settling down to raise her son in a small community. I love the characters of Skye and Thea because they seemed relatable despite their pasts. This book kept me turning pages. Once I got to the 50 % mark, it pained me to have to put it down because I wanted to keep reading. This is a must-read for fans of romantic suspense.
January 7, 2019
Not sure what I just rea-- oh wait, I dropped it.
May 6, 2018
Would be good on tc.
Think of the film mr and nrs smith. You know the one where their spies to each other? Well think of that only Mr smith is dead and Sky nrs is hiding from his killers with their tong sun to prowtect. They try setaling down but a bully at the school, her landlord and even skies new freind could blow her cuver?
I loved this book. Dispite the plot mite seam it is so well handeled by the author that the storey felt very pakoras able.
Would recomend this book to any one.
Think of the film mr and nrs smith. You know the one where their spies to each other? Well think of that only Mr smith is dead and Sky nrs is hiding from his killers with their tong sun to prowtect. They try setaling down but a bully at the school, her landlord and even skies new freind could blow her cuver?
I loved this book. Dispite the plot mite seam it is so well handeled by the author that the storey felt very pakoras able.
Would recomend this book to any one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews