The School of Starting Over

Wow oh wow! She's done it again.
I am literally sat with tears streaming down my cheeks from this absolutely gorgeous and heartwarming story.
This is a book which has touched my heart on so many levels. This is an absolutely gorgeous read and I highly recommend this goes on everyone's TBR.
It's no secret that I am a huge fan of this author, I have nothing negative to say about any of her work at all. This is a truly magical story, with a range of characters who are loveable from the very beginning.
I haven't been able to put this one down, I've laughed and I've cried but this is a perfect read. Lisa Swift is an absolute queen of perfect reads. I am already impatiently awaiting the next one.
A definite five star star rating, although this absolutely magical and gorgeous read should be rated a lot higher than five stars. It is truly heartwarming and perfect.

4.5 stars

With a title that sums up this story perfectly, we’re whisked off to the little Yorkshire village of Leyholme where in true Yorkshire style, the residents are as welcoming as they are stubborn and provide plenty of merriment along the way.

“Are you honestly telling me that Xander – our Xander, Xander Scott, who can barely speak to the opposite sex without having a panic attack – is a major village sex symbol?”

It’s always refreshing to find characters who break the mould a little and that’s exactly what we get from the school’s interim headteacher, Xander with his awkward charm and quieter nature. The very opposite to the school’s newest teacher, Nell who, despite harbouring her own secrets, lights up any room she walks into and has no problem calling a spade a spade. And they bounce of one another perfectly.

“ ...it means a lot that you’d wrestle a semi-feral toddler just to help me out.”

But it’s not all about Nell and Xander because there’s Colin the sheep, widowed single mum, Stevie and her amble down the romantic path with dog-walker, Deb and Xander’s mum who is fighting her own struggles, and for all the moments of lightness and humour, there are those that are heartfelt, tugging on your heartstrings as you share the lower points in these characters lives.

“You made me new.”

If you’re after a feel-good summer romance filled with love and laughter, then The School of Starting Over is the book for you.

Gorgeous. I love a good male character, and Xander is a brilliant example of a modern man, strong and vulnerable to boot. Utterly loved this book from start to finish. Hilarious, packed full of Yorkshire joy, sorrow and the stuff of real life, with stories and characters I have sown into my heart for safekeeping. Brilliant. More please Lisa ♥️

The beautiful cover just beckons you inside the pages to discover the charms of a host of characters living in the Yorkshire village of Leyholme. Nell Shackleton has bought the ramshackle Humblebee Farm cottage and will be the new Reception teacher at the primary school.
Xander is the acting deputy head and a socially awkward but extremely endearing man who is missing teaching his Year 3 class and battling with confidence issues.
There is a horrid Chair of Governors Ryan Theakston and some jolly teachers and parents including Stevie Madeleine and her daughter Milly. The cast is not limited to humans and there is a lot of animal love for dogs Red and Life and sheep Colin!
We follow the ups and downs of life and love through the relationships between characters with mostly very funny highlights and plenty of soul searching and sadder moments all topped off with burgeoning romances.
I love the warmth of this book, it's uplifting nature, it's essence of goodness in a real world that can be grim, so that reading it is a hot chocolate on a cold night, a warm bath for aching limbs and the fluffiest blanket you can find.
As a primary teacher myself I loved the fact that this story is based in a village school and on events that are believable but funny.

I loved this book. I generally like stories about close-knit communities where people are there for each other and this novel offers just that setting. It also offers a very loveable set of characters including a pet sheep Colin. The story begins like a sweet romance, but later on some serious issues appear giving the story more depth than you find in your average chick lit.
It is a well-paced story very well written. I love the humour and the emotions in it. It is good to read about people who love, respect and appreciate each other.
This is the first novel I have read by the author, but I will check out her other books as well.

This was the first book that I have read from this author and it did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It follows Nell, who resigns from her previous prestigious teaching job (due to a bad breakup caused by her cheating fiance!), who moves to a village school and buys a rundown farmhouse, because that is all that she can afford. From there, we see Nell settle into village living, making friendships, and teaching at a small school. She loves her students and meets a fellow teacher named Xander Scott, who is a fidgety, insecure, awkward man. Friendship ensues and we see Xander grow as a person throughout the book. What I liked most about this book was the storyline, the likeable and believeable characters, the twists and turns of the storyline (hello - secrets!) and the ending was the sweetest. Go and read this book - you will be glad you did!

Thanks #netgalley for the ARC of this book. I am happy I took a chance on a book by an author that I have never read before but now am a fan of! #theschoolofstartingover #chicklit #romance

I absolutely adore Lisa's work, and this certainly made my reading experience a happy one. I laughed so much, The cover is gorgeous, the characters are very likeable with a strong modern male in the mix.
This is a book which made me smile, made me have a tear in my eye, but most of all, this book made me want more.
A heartwarming gem of a book and all made in Yorkshire.

I loved this heartwarming story! The romance, friendship and adventures of Nell, Xander and Stevie were a joy to read. Special recognition goes to Stevie's daughter Millie for being absolutely a joy to read :). I smiled, cried and even laughed out loud at a few parts. I wish the town were real because I'd move there in a heartbeat! If you want to feel happy and read something sweet and uplifting then The School of Starting Over is the book for you!

Thank you to Netgalley, Hera Books and Lisa Swift for the opportunity to review this book.

After a slow start to the book, which was needed so that you really knew the characters and their back stories properly, suddenly the book became simply amazing! Completely took me by surprise, I mean there were hints throughout that you didn't have all the information even as a reader seeing multiple characters lives, but I didn't see that coming until perhaps last last possibly minute.

I'm not even sure I want to tell you what the book is about, or any details, as I know I went in blind and was richly rewarded for it.

I literally picked to read this due to the fact it had school in the title (and I loved books set in schools even as a kid), and knowing that Lisa Swift also writes as Mary Jayne Baker, so knew I'd be able to trust the writing. I hadn't really acknowledged the blurb at least until after I'd started reading!

There are some completely memorable characters:

Ryan - as the school governor that is a thorn in poor Xander's side. I was so frustrated whenever that bully appeared, and he seemed to hate Xander. Xander being the male lead, rather unsure of himself and his new position as acting head, full of nerves, he really is very cute, unlikely but none the less lovely person.

Colin the sheep who only makes a few cameos, but we meet early into the book and always made me smile.

Red the border setter, along with his 4 year old Millie are an adorable pairing, Red is rather mischievous and Millie is just adorable. I loved her mum Stevie's friendships both with Nell, the new reception teacher and also a new friendship with her dog walker Deb.

Stevie is so brave and inspirational, I really took to her, and enjoyed any pages she was present on. You definitely need to keep an eye out for her back story, its painful but the way it is written about, is just right,

And then there is Nell, who has moved to this village, bought frankly a wreck of a farmhouse to live in and renovate and initially knows no one there. Her vision for World Book Day was spot on, and I loved how the whole school embraced it.

Oh there are so many deep issues in this book, and it means all these characters are well rounded, living and breathing humans who you could possibly find in your local pub.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, and delighted to see a different angle to this author's writing arsenal which is becoming rather impressive.

Thank you to Hera and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

Fabulous book. The story of Nell. After a relationship breakdown, she moved to Leyholme to start at the local school. This book has twists and turns, as Nell is hiding secrets when she starts work at this school. The head of the school is also dealing with personal issues. Other characters too are dealing with their issues. Things reach a head when the head realises that Nell has lied. What happens next and what has Nell lies about will be a shock. Kept me hooked.

Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher. What a nice feel good easy read with great characters and great location, hopefully this will turn into a series.

Really enjoyed my first Lisa Swift book. I’m a teacher and sometimes find books where schools are involved a little far fetched or unbelievable, but most of this was pretty spot on, luckily I’ve never encountered such an evil head Governor though! The main character Nell is strong and likeable and I enjoyed watching her stories and relationships unfold throughout the book. There was enough intrigue to keep me wanting to read more and every character in it was interesting and made me want to visit Leyholme. I’ll be looking out for more
books by this author.
Thank you to netgalley, the author and the publishers for gifting me a copy of this book in return for an honest, unbiased review.

Nell Shackleton's dream is to live in a cottage in the countryside and be at one with nature and the community. And in some ways the purchasing of Humblebee Farm is that - she is at one with the nature the house does not have much of a roof and she is part of the community as she is the new Reception School teacher. 

It seems that Nell has it all?

Xander Scott is the temporary Headteacher at the village school and he is battling his own demons alongside trying to deal with parents, new teachers and rather irritating school governors. Xander wanted more than village life but finds himself back there and suddenly he does not want to leave.

Is it something to do with Nell?

Stevie Blake her adorable daughter Millie and a mad dog called Red are the only things she needs in life, after having give up on love when she lost her wife. But something is eating away at Stevie and it seems that perhaps love could come knocking again if only she would deal with the past. 

This book starts strong and builds all the characters up, you are immediately invested in them, you care about them or are simply irritated by them as is the case of school governor Ryan who clearly has something of the school bully still left in him. 

Not only is this a book with a great community spirit, what better way to bring everyone together than a village school. But it has lots of romance, it has tragedy and contemporary issues. The actions of the past, present and potentially the future of some of the main characters makes it more than a fluffy piece of romantic fiction. The cover suggests one thing - you get much more in the pages of the book inbetween. 

A great read which leaves you satisfied and your heart warmed. What more could you want from a book?

I wish this town was real because I would move there without a hesitation!
I love the characters. The romance and adventures that they had were ones that brought laughter and tears to my eyes.
I enjoyed this book a lot and hope to continue reading from this author.
I hope it turns into a series because I def would stay up all night reading!

I was expecting a sweet romance. A little village school. Teachers. Sheep. A rickety farmhouse. What I got was so much more. This is a story with so much going on. There are secrets, suicide, sadness, bullying, people looking for love and people scared of giving in to it, and surprises too. The village provides a mixed cast of characters and the perfect setting, but it's Nell and Xander and Stevie who give us the emotion and the drama and ultimately the love. Thoroughly enjoyed and recommended.

Really enjoyed this one. Nell moves to the small village to teach at the country school. There she meets Xander, a shy and geeky man, a sheep that thinks he’s a dog, and a collection of characters that keep the interest. Ups and downs, so not always a light read, but still would highly recommend this book and author.

Ooh, I love a story with a school in it, and this one was full of the everyday life of it. 

Ms Swift dropped some early hints that perhaps not all is as it seems in either Nell's life or Stevie's, and it was fascinating to read the plot lines unfolding, and interweaving. I did wonder if one of the characters was a bit on the stalkerish side when the major reveal took place, but my heart swiftly went out to the character concerned and Ms Swift expertly brought me back on-side again.

The story deals sympathetically with some quite emotional issues, the characters are rounded and well-developed, and grow throughout the book, and of course, there is a HEA. Actually, not one but two! 

However, for me, the dog stole the show!

Fantastic read! This book was devoured in one sitting. Great characters and a real feel good factor book. First time reading this author but will be looking for future books to read. Highly recommend

What a lovely, lovely book. This is the story of three ordinary people putting their lives back together after tragedy and about the importance of connection and friendship. Xander, Stevie and Nell are all wonderful complex characters who grow and learn throughout the book and, with the help of each other, learn to put the past behind them and become better versions of themselves. I laughed, I cried and I highly recommend this wonderful read.

Well...such a warm, cosy tale based in Yorkshire. I’m drawn to books featuring schools and this book had it all. A strong female lead character searching for answers and a modern geeky acting head teacher who is vulnerable and easy to love. The book takes a while to get into but this builds the characters back stories superbly. Swift explores some deep emotional issues within this book in a mature, caring and captivating manner. As a reader you can’t help but become attached to characters such as Nell, Stevie and Xander...you go on the journey with them but I had no idea on the journey we would be taking.
My first book by this author and will meet most certainly not be my last.

Ahh a lovely book. Great one liners and banter between the characters, several laugh out loud moments.
Based in a school and a small village where everyone knows everybody. I really liked the main characters including the sheep and the dogs.
Another great rom com by Lisa Swift.

The School of Starting over was my first Lisa Swift book and I absolutely fell in love with it. It’s a feel-good book, which indulges you in all the wholesome warm and cosies you could want from a romance. The characters are a lively, eclectic bunch and there is plenty of humour from main and supporting cast members. I was invested in their stories and really rooted for them,especially since some of the issues they face are much deeper than expected.

I have to give a special mention to Xander who is the perfect, unassuming hero (ahhh, hearty-eyes).

The plot had me hooked; there was drama, secrets and a little bit of mystery throughout!

Once thing I loved was how deep the author dug for a popular reference that was probably less mainstream than most - I had a few ‘oh my god I remember that’ moments!

All in all there was nothing to dislike about this book (other than having to put it down at the end). If heartwarming, contemporary romance with laughs and feels is your thing; it’s a must-read!

Genre: Contemporary romance / Romantic comedy

Rating: 5/5

The School of Starting Over by Lisa Swift is a delightful and uplifting story that will tug at your heartstrings. Set in the charming Yorkshire village of Leyholme, it follows Nell Shackleton, who has moved to Leyholme for a fresh start after a bad breakup. She is the new reception teacher at the local primary school and has bought a dilapidated farmhouse because it's all she can afford at the moment. Nell loves her new job and is enjoying village life. When she meets Stevie, they become great friends. Stevie's four-year-old daughter is one of Nell's students. Her wife died four years ago, and she has no desire to date again. But fate has other plans when Deb, the dog walker, comes into her life. But will Stevie's sad past stop her from finding love again?
When Nell meets Xander, the acting headmaster, there's an immediate spark between them, but he's too shy and insecure to ask her out on a date. Xander lacks self- confidence and doesn't think he deserves to be the headmaster. He lives at home with his mom, who is having a hard time coping with her husband's suicide. With the support of Nell, the teachers, parents, and everyone in the community, we see Xander grow as a person throughout the story.
I absolutely loved this sweet and touching story. The characters are lovable, including Colin the sheep and the dogs. I loved the small tight-knit community feeling and the school setting. The author deals with some deep emotional issues in a mature and sympathetic manner. As much as I love these types of books, they can be slightly predictable, so I was pleasantly surprised by the twist. I knew that Nell was hiding something, but was completely taken off guard when her secret was finally revealed. I will definitely be reading more books by Lisa Swift and highly recommend this lovely read.

I received an ARC from Hera Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Wow what a read. 5 out of 5 for me. Not read any of Lisa Swifts previous books and was a little apprehensive, what caught my eye was the front cover.

From page one I loved it, hooked!

When Nell arrives at a new school, starting a new life in a run down old cottage, we wonder why she would up sticks and move to this small town? Nell finds friends and love, but can she keep life running smoothly? Such twists, I didn’t see coming which kept me hooked.

Highly recommend.

Praise for Lisa Swift.

Best book I have read this year.. Will highly recommend it. I loved the relationships in it. I loved the twist to why Nell moved. It covered some very relevant topics depression and being gay. I loved it

I thought this book was brilliant, Its full of believable characters, it's funny,it's heartwarming, it's moving and there are some 'unpleasant' topics within the story which are dealt with such sensitivity, the book maintains that lighter feel. There is certainly a twist I didn't see coming. I heartily recommend reading this book.

What a brilliant book!
Story didn’t pan out as I was expecting, which was a good thing- I love being surprised! I won’t comment about the story as I think it’s best read without any prior knowledge.
So many fabulous characters and a gorgeous community., it’s a really lovely feel good read.
Such realistic characters that you soon become emotionally invested in and situations that keep you entertained.
Loved the character of Xander, so honest and down to earth, you can’t help becoming fond of him!
Nell is a character that you instantly warm to and want to befriend, and the same with Stevie.
Such a pleasurable read, I will definitely be seeking out further books by this talented author.

Ohhh! The cover of The School of Starting Over is perfect and suits this book perfectly!

I really liked how there are quite a few main characters in this story and Lisa Swift really takes her time with them so that you get to know them and lovely they are. Not perfect but enjoyable to read about, we follow Xander, the new head of the Leyholme Primary School. Convinced he isn't good enough for the job, we follow him as he starts off timid and unsure of himself to someone who begins to make a big difference to the school and the people around him.  If only the Ryan the School Governor would push off and leave him alone.

Nell is a new teacher at the school having moved (almost on a whim but not quite...) and bought a ramshackle farmhouse with a resident goat, Colin. Obviously. Although, we get a slight hint that all is not what is seems.

Stevie is the mum of Millie a 4 year old and Red, the mischievous dog and becomes friends with Nell. Following the loss of her wife, Stevie is determined to avoid any emotional entanglements but obviously fate has other plans when Deb, the dog walker comes into her life.

This is such a lovely book that I read it in a day. Not your standard women's book, it deals with some heavy issues that are explored brilliantly and keep you completely invested in the characters that have almost come to feel like friends.

Definitely recommended.

The book was very slow to begin with and I almost gave up. But was glad I persevered. Because it really turned around and ended up really surprising me at how good it was. The rest of the book was very well written. Nice and easy to read . Lovely location that made you wish you were right there in the thick of it.

Nell has left a job at a prestigious primary school and has relocated to a tiny village school in Leyholme, Yorkshire. She's moved into farmhouse in an idyllic location which needs a lot more work than she initially anticipated. It's in such a state of disrepair that Colin the sheep seems to have become a permanent resident inside the barn with the leaky roof and open back door. She's got a new start in the primary school and can't wait to settle into the quirky village and potentially uncover some secrets too.

This story was fantastic and completely took me by surprise. It's so much more than I was initially expecting. It's a real feel-good romance with superb secrets and mysteries interspersed throughout. All of the characters are so realistic and brilliantly written that this was a delight to read.

I don't want to reveal any more than that, it's full of mystery and you need to go and read and reveal the secrets yourself.

Colin the sheep was my favourite character and he's so minor but hilarious I loved him! The cheeky dogs in the story were fantastic too.

It's such a different and refreshing read that I just can't recommend it enough. The best romance book I've read this year. I need to read more books by Lisa Swift!

Book review will be posted onto my blog booksandbookends.wordpress.com as part of the blog tour with RRR on 11th March.

Loved this book. The story had everything: warmth, laughter, tears and romance. Lovely writing style which makes it enjoyable to read.

Wow. WOW WOW WOW.
I have a great affection for books from the UK. Sometimes they are a bit too twee, and the cover of this gave the impression that it might fall in that category. I WAS WRONG.
The plot moves well, the characters are well written without being too fake or over the top good or bad, and the story is multi-layered. I had a hard time putting it down, even when it was making me cry in sympathy for the major players. Nell was a believable main heroine, and Stevie an amazing and complex secondary heroine. Our hero Xander is one who grows into himself, and neither an alpha or a beta, which made him one of the best male characters I have read in a long time.

I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book. Keep writing like this, Ms. Swift, and you'll have a fan for life. Well done!

Lovely, heartwarming story of connecting lives in small-town England🌄

😌 What a lovely story, alternately funny, warm, romantic, and tearfully emotional. From Nell's first night in her leaking house huddled with a stray sheep, I was hooked. Some way into the story a mystery surfaces about heroine Nell's background and occasional odd comments from her family that indicate a secret kept from her friends. Little clues pop up until finally, her romantic interest/acting boss Xander learns the truth. Major upheaval results.

🤗 In the meantime, author Lisa Swift builds a lovely community of adorable tots and their parents, devoted teachers and some singles who end up finding second chances at love. Xander and Nell quickly establish a fun rapport that promises a closer partnership. I adored hero Xander's exhausted friends Sarah and Justin and their whirlwind two-year-old Jacob. Justin's efforts to chat up Stevie on a night at the local pub and Xander's babysitting efforts were priceless. And young Milly, dedicated mountaineer and storybook heroine, steals so many scenes. I loved it all!😍

The heavy emotional burden that widowed, single mother Stevie carries and her supportive connection to newcomer Nell were compelling, as was the grief Xander and his mother were still dealing with. Just so many captivating life stories woven together to achieve a novel with lots of heart. What a joy to read!👍👍

Thanks to publisher Hera Books and NetGalley for providing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

This story is full of all emotions, it has been a real pleasure to read it. I recommend everyone to get a copy and enjoy this as I have. Lisa Swift wrote this fantastic story and her words nearly jump off the page to you. I look forward to reading more of her books as soon possible. 5 stars go to this book. Enjoy as I have.

Nell Shackleton has moved to Humblebee Farm in the village of Leyholme. She was to be the new Reception Teacher at the village school. Her new home was less like a farm and more like a barn with its leaking roof, broken back door and resident sheep she named Colin after her Dad.
At the grand old age of 28, she’d just broken up with Shawn right before their wedding, left their flat in Manchester, finished her beloved job in the school and suddenly found herself single, homeless and unemployed. She told herself there is only one way from here and it’s up.
She wanted Humblebee Farm so much because she knew it was the last place that Shawn would have ever wanted to live in, she took an infinite amount of satisfaction at the idea of living anywhere Shawn would have hated.
Over on the other side of the village Xander Scott was getting ready for his first day as Acting Headteacher at Leyholme Primary School, his Mum Anne had made him a cake to celebrate this monumental day. He was only acting until Jeremy was well enough to return then he’d go back to being a full-time teacher.
He really didn’t know what he was going to do all day long, what do headteachers actually do apart from answer a few emails and keep busy. He knew he needed to welcome the new Reception Teacher to the school and he’d arrange to see her at breaktime to do just that.
I had a lovely time following the characters of the village go about their daily lives focused around the village school. A very well written book and a joy to read.

Really sweet and cute story. Absolutely loved the typically British snark and dry humor and wit, and adored the fact that the characters were like people I would love to know and who felt real - not over the top, almost hum-drum at times, but gosh, so relatable and human (and flawed, too). I caught myself laughing so many times at the dead-pan delivery of some lines and how utterly simply but funny the dialogue sometimes was.
There was a reveal in there that I totally did not see coming, and this further made me appreciate this book as, though it was a nice enough story for the first half, this twist turned it all on its head and was a huge OMG! moment.

Such a wonderful read, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a real heartwarming read with humour and emotion. Brilliant well rounded characters, great story, and so well written. It’s full of lots of twists, mystery, hilarity, there are literal laugh out loud moments (I need more Colin), highly recommend this for a smile, a giggle and a hug in a book. Pick this up you won’t be disappointed

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

This was the king of story I needed: heartwarming, well written and fun to read.
I loved the setting, the cast of characters and the humour.
It was a briliant and entertaining read, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

Despite spending most of my time inside one, I cannot resist a heartwarming novel based around a school and it’s interesting array of characters and believe me – it is a fairly accurate representation of school life and the personalities you may come across. This is my first novel by Lisa Swift/Mary Jayne Baker and it certainly will not be my last.

The first part of the book moves at a slower, but necessary pace, and really spends time developing the main characters and their stories. Each character is written to compliment each other and brings a vulnerability to the bigger picture as well as support for other characters.

Amongst the main characters are vibrant new teacher Nell who hides a devastating secret, Xander the gentle head and a school full of unpredictable children.

The typically Yorkshire village of Leyholme, is a cosy setting and feels so familiar and welcoming and I’m really hoping there will be more stories from these characters and Leyholme.

This novel made me laugh, cry and warmed my insides. It really has everything.

I loved this heartwarming novel and I highly recommend it.

What a brilliant read this proved to be, it will definitely be one of my favourite reads for 2020 and I can't recommend it highly enough. My advice is read the book, not my review!

Anyway, for those of you that are still reading this . . . . Nell Shackleton has made a big change in her life, moving to Humblebee Farm on the Yorkshire moors and starting a new job as the reception teacher at Leyholme Primary School. She's moved from a prestigious, highly rated school to this little village school. Her new home is falling to pieces, has a leaky roof and a ram has moved in! She names the sheep Colin and he's one of my favourite characters in this fantastic story, along with Red, the mischievous cocker spaniel belonging to villagers Stevie Madeleine and her four year old daughter Milly. The new acting head teacher at the school is Xander Scott and he's certainly not sure he wants his new role! When Nell and Xander meet there's an obvious spark between them but he's so unsure of himself and shy you wonder if he will ever get the courage to ask her out. Actually his growth in confidence through the story is brilliantly portrayed and lovely to follow.

This whole community is superbly developed, with characters to love and others to dislike, especially the Chair of Governors - but I'm not telling you any more about him! It is a heartwarming story with laugh out loud moments but it also has some very moving moments and plenty of surprises in store for readers. Having been a primary teacher for more years than I care to remember, this story brought back memories and I found it very easy to relate to. The mix of staff, pupils and parents, involving the community in events and so much more was so true to life - though the twists in this story were, fortunately, nothing I'd encountered in real life.

This is a superb read with a delightful community, fabulous characters and a surprising twist that I definitely didn't see coming. It is a heartwarming story, a real page turner and a book I highly recommend you read. I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.

In this feelgood story, you feel as though you are part of the village community. There are lots of secondary characters who Nell meets as she starts again at the local school and they all add something to the feeling of community. Just right for a local school. In Xander, you have someone who is certainly not typecast. He has several insecurities and as you find out about his family, you realise that he has been carrying a secret for quite some time.

There are some deftly drawn, humorous episodes. Many of them involve Colin, a sheep who seems to adopt Nell and who really brings a smile to your face. As you discover, Nell has a few secrets of her own, but she is a thoroughly sympathetic character who is so different to Xander. With lots of love, merriment and humour, this is a great read to light up what can be a sombre world at the moment.

Thanks to the author for a copy of the book.

Full review on my blog
I've just discovered my new favourite author in Lisa Swift. This was an absolutely wonderful read that I thought was well paced throughout,

A lovely romantic read that will have readers roaring with laughter and wiping away a tear or two on many an occasion, Lisa Swift’s The School of Starting Over is an uplifting, emotional and captivating read that is simply delightful.

Reception class teacher Nell Shackleton is looking forward to her fresh start in Yorkshire and to living in her new home at Humblebee Farm on the edge of the moors. The farm might be dilapidated, the back door might be hanging off and a sheep might have taken up residence in her front room, but Nell refuses to be deterred or discouraged. She came to Humblebee Farm for a new beginning and nothing and nobody is going to come between her and her new life. Nell has never been frightened of hard work nor has ever balked at a challenge and she is certainly not going to start now. But there is more to Humblebee Farm than back-breaking labour as she discovers when she meets Xander Scott, the school’s head-teacher.

Xander has certainly got enough on his plate at the moment. Managing feral kids and their over zealous parents is certainly challenging and the school’s youngest ever head needs to keep all of his wits about him because failure is simply not an option. Xander simply cannot afford to be distracted by anyone or anything – not even by the new reception class teacher who is occupying his thoughts rather a lot lately…

As she begins to settle into her new job and start to make new friends, Nell feels like she has finally found a place where she can belong – until old secrets and past mistakes resurface leaving her to realise that there is always something to learn if one is willing to open up their mind and their heart.

I am such a huge fan of Lisa Swift’s! She has this uncanny ability of touching readers’ heart, having them scream with laughter and keeping them reading late into the night. The School of Starting Over is a poignant, emotional, hilarious and enthralling read with wonderfully realised characters, humour, charm, drama and pathos and plenty of rural hi-jinks to keep readers turning the pages.

A feel-good romantic read that is just what the doctor ordered during these testing and trying times, Lisa Swift’s The School of Starting Over is a must-read that will lift the spirt and warm the heart.

Heartwarming, humorous, immersive and poignant. ‘The School of Starting Over’, evokes so many emotions in the reader, as you discover the secrets hiding within the complex and relatable characters.

A new beginning for Nell in a rundown farmhouse, her heart’s battered and she wants a new start. Reading, the first few chapters I was expecting a lighthearted rom-com, with lots of interactive village gossip. Whilst. this is superficially what this story delivers there is so much more as you read on.

Just, when you are relaxing, and enjoying the happy ever afters you expected, the plot twists into an emotional family drama, which resonates. The story’s main protagonists’ happiness is intricately connected. and like a house of cards. it could disappear without a trace.

Vivid characters, heartrending conflict and an authentic Yorkshire village ethos and setting make this addictive reading.

I received a copy of this book from Hera Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Wow oh wow! She's done it again.
I am literally sat with tears streaming down my cheeks from this absolutely gorgeous and heartwarming story.
This is a book which has touched my heart on so many levels. This is an absolutely gorgeous read and I highly recommend this goes on everyone's TBR.
It's no secret that I am a huge fan of this author, I have nothing negative to say about any of her work at all. This is a truly magical story, with a range of characters who are loveable from the very beginning.
I haven't been able to put this one down, I've laughed and I've cried but this is a perfect read. Lisa Swift is an absolute queen of perfect reads. I am already impatiently awaiting the next one.
A definite five star star rating, although this absolutely magical and gorgeous read should be rated a lot higher than five stars. It is truly heartwarming and perfect.

Favorite Quotes:

‘It’s not All Creatures Great and Small, Dad,’ she said impatiently. ‘There’s more to rural life these days than cousin marriage and cow-fisting.’

‘Exceptional. You know they put that on your school report once? Exceptional’ … He could remember a few choice phrases from those reports himself. It hadn’t been all exceptionals… from his Biology teacher: ‘Alexander would do rather better if he spent more time properly studying the reproductive system diagrams and less time doodling beards on the testicles’.

His mum was right, he was gifted. Gifted at being a little bugger.

‘It’s hard to feel sexy with a kid in your life, what with the endless bouts of screaming and bodily fluids. Life at home these days is like the director’s cut of The Exorcist, now with extra vomit.’ ‘You’re really not selling parenthood to me, you know.’ ‘Good. Save yourself, love, while you still can.’

‘Sometimes it feels like there must’ve been some sort of special lesbian school that all the others had access to but me. You know, like a gay Hogwarts.’ ‘What, you mean you didn’t get your owl-delivered letter letting you know you were one of the lucky few who’d been selected to fancy girls?’

‘Jacob’s not a kid, he’s Satan incarnate.’ … ‘I brought story books, a pan-pipe CD and some biscuits to help soothe the savage beast.’ ‘Did you bring a crucifix and a couple of gallons of holy water?’

‘So are you feeling broody after that?’ Nell asked Xander when they were outside. ‘Are you kidding? I’ll be booking myself in for a vasectomy next week.’


My Review:

I adored every perfectly chosen word of this cleverly amusing and well-crafted tale. I smirked and giggled-snorted with glee as Lisa Swift, AKA, Mary Jayne Baker is found treasure and a master storyteller. Reading this tale was pure delight – I had a ream of exceptionally witty highlights on my Kindle and it was painful to pare the list down and decide what to include in this review. Oh happy day, a new author to add to the very top of my list of Favorite Things.

The characters were endearing, adorable, and colorfully detailed while the storylines were engaging and held my rapt attention while tickling my funny bone and teasing my curiosity in equal measure, as there was a mystery afoot and a petty and villainous bureaucrat always lurking. The banter between the main characters was quite witty and fun. The writing was simply stellar and deftly paced. I tumbled right into Ms. Swift’s story and resented all interruptions to my perusal as I didn’t want to leave it behind. When forced away from my beloved Kindle, I found I was often smiling to myself and contemplating the characters and replaying their storylines in my head while hurriedly completing the dastardly deeds and annoying intrusions to my reading known as daily living so I could return to the far more enticing story awaiting me.

I struck gold with a massive influx of fun words for my Brit Word List with dead-man’s-bootsed - being in a situation where you can't advance until someone else dies or retires so you can step into their position, lecky – electricity, apeth - an affectionate term for a silly or foolish person, and off your chump – crazy.

I thought that this was a lovely story!

It was just the type of book that I wanted to read at the moment, I have been really poorly of late and it was great to be able to get away reading the book and to immerse myself if the story of Nell, Xander and Stevie – they were all fabulous characters in their own ways, their interaction was great and I loved how well they worked together and with the plot and best of all they all came over as genuine and believable and I think that really helped with my enjoyment

I did find the book was a little slow to start but that really helped with introducing the characters and setting the scene and the pace soon build up and I found myself flying through the pages to see how it would all end – I loved it from cover to cover – it was a heart-warming story and the perfect pick me up!

It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon – I thought it was a fun read with some fabulous characters and I really enjoyed it – highly recommended!

5☆ Heart Warming, Uplifting, Poignant, Funny and Tender, A Must Read!

The School of Starting Over is a fabulous book, the cover is stunning, it's a poignant, compelling, heart warming and cosy rom com that I didn't want to end!

Nell has just moved to Humblebee Farm and started her new job as a Reception Class Teacher.
Xander is also New and is the Current Head teacher for Leyholme Primary School. But he is realising he may of bitten off more than he can chew, as it's not any easy job especially when you have the Chair of Governors on your case!

But when Nell and Xander meet its quiet clear there is a lil sizzle of chemistry.
But Xander isn't your typical leading man, he's shy, not confident and finds it hard to Express himself, which makes him all the more endearing, charming and loveable.
Watching Xander grow as a person and Head Teacher was so heart warming to watch. I was willing Nell and Xander to get together.

But Nell isn't just settling in at her new job, and fitting in with the community and making friends, she's also dealing with her Farm House that certainly has it's fair share of problems and in need of renovations.

The School of Starting Over is such a fantastic book, it's not just a rom com there is so much more, a sprinkling of mystery, twists, secrets, bullying issues, drama, community spirit, friendships, fitting it and new beginnings.
I loved the light hearted humour mixed with the tender moments it just added to the depth.
The characters were a quirky bunch and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them, even the adorable Dogs and Colin the sheep lol

The School of Starting Over is the perfect Title for this gorgeous book, it compliments the plot perfectly!

So if you are looking for a new women's fiction / romcom that has an adorable cover, is heart warming, uplifting, poignant, funny and tender then, The School of Starting Over Is the PERFECT book for you!


Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

Oh my goodness this book over the last couple of days has been a joy. It has totally brightened my day.

I loved it so much. Nell, Stevie and Xander are all exceptional characters. This was a book that I truly just wanted to keep picking up to read a bit more. I liked that fact that swapping between the characters on each chapter was just the right amount of content.

A really lovely and well written book.

I enjoyed it so much that I'm off now to download When you were mine also by Lisa. Can't wait to read another one and await more please.

Thank you.

*Apologies for the delay in this review*

This is exactly the sort of book i adore the most, a heartbreak, fleeing to a quaint little village - meet the community & blossoming relationships with more drama.



This is also exactly the sort of book i wanted to read right now to escape the reality of the ever changing world around us.



Nell has just split from her fiance when they were due to get married and fled away from her dad and stepmums because whats worse than living with your parents. Well the cottage she bought under a dream bubble is looking pretty much that, with no electric, gas and a major problem with the roof - oh and a guest sheep that basically lives there too.



However she has a new job and this can be a new start. Xander Scott has just been promoted to one of the youngest headteachers the area has ever had and its something that is making is anxiety spike. He can do it though - and when the new teacher comes along full of life, something about him starts to change.



Nell - with her new army of friends including the wonderful Stevie sets about finding her happy place, but all is not as it seems and when Xander discovers something he probably shouldn't, the world around them all changes.



Honestly this book was a pure delight, it was sweet, heart warming but heart breaking sometimes too. I adored the whole cast of characters who all had such strong personalities. A great read and something for those who want to keep their heads in the clouds.



*Gifted for blog tour*

Not often that you read a book with a sheep called Colin...
A sweet read which had hidden depths, not just the light and frothy new teacher falls in love with other teacher that I had predicted. The range of interesting characters and the surprising twist revealed turn this into a satisfying read, funny but a bit teary too.

With all the doom and gloom lately, I needed a book that gave me a bit of sunshine and this book certainly delivered that :)

The main characters, Xander and Nell, are two unlucky-in-love people who meet at work. They are both teachers. Xander is an awkward, geeky kind of fella who has had to take on headmaster duties when he really didn't want to. Then along comes Nell, a woman who comes to work at his school, a tiny village school, despite having been a teacher at a large, prestigious school at her last workplace. There is a story behind this, of course.

This novel was multi-layered and I really enjoyed the secondary characters and their stories as well. I found myself laughing, going "awww" and even shedding a tear or two. It was exactly the tonic I needed during this difficult time.

5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hera Books for the read, my apologies for my delay in reading it.

Wow. What a book!! With the world outside in such a mess, this was one book which was like a oasis in the desert. The writing was beautiful where the author brought complete joy to my heart.

Nell and Xander were delightful, I loved their banter. The storyline felt as if it were made for them or they were made for this. The author was simply a masterful storyteller who would keep me completely absorbed in their love (I normally don't read their love stories). The humor in the prose made me cackle like a witch. The mystery in the story soothed by thriller-y heart.

The writing was delightful and soothing to my soul. The book brought me respite for a couple of hours in these turbulent times. Warm hearted welcome was what I got from this book. A wonderful read from beginning to end.

Side note, I happened to notice that the last two books I read (including this one) featured potential romantic couples with the woman either being in a seat of power or being the more powerful character. Nothing wrong with that and while the first wasn't as high hitting for me, this one surprisingly was. Grant it, I went into both with high hopes, and while I wasn't disappointed, I was left deciphering why exactly there was a difference. Here's what I came up with...

Both featured strong female characters, but this one's strength wasn't so much being a tech genius nor the higher power, but rather from what she's been through in life, the betrayals she's faced, and the challenges she overcame. I loved her for all her flaws as well as her pluses, such as a big heart that couldn't seem to say no to Kevin (he's a sheep...yep...trust me, it works), her tact when handling a less than trusting parent, and her way of seeing through to the heart of people that allowed her to give them what they needed. The men were definitely not alphas in either story, but while the former was a brooder, sulky, git (sorry, he was...even if there was some golden heart buried under it all!), this one is more on the unsure side of things without the prickly parts and a certain about of sweetness (dare I say cuteness?) that while not swoon worthy exactly was definitely heart melting. I loved how he was so generous with the children, but when it came to the opposite sex, he clammed up like Fort Knox. I wasn't certain about his level of insecurity, but it became endearing once you got to know him. In fact, the whole town was noteworthy in some fashion, so you really couldn't leave a stone turned over without falling into someone else's life.




All in all, a great romantic comedy with a lot of heart. The leading lad and lass were so wonderful you couldn't help but root for them...yet they weren't the only ones worth rooting! Look for the dual story line that gives our gal Stevie a chance at a new romance, and readers another potential couple to fall in love with!

Loved this book. Great characters, easy read, uplifting, funny, romantic and charming. A really nice story that is the perfect escapist read.

A fantastic story with characters that you just cant help but love. Lisa Swift knows how to write characters that you feel like you have known for years. This book had it all, loveable characters, a fantastic story, moments that make you literally LOL and moments you want to cry. A great book to escape in at this time and one I will be recommending to everyone.

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publishers for asking me to read and review.
This story was a wonderful read.
It is well written with some characters that are well rounded and as a reader you feel you are right there with them and feel the emotions that they are going through. The plot draws you in, keeping you wanting more and turning those pages.
A brilliant, addictive read.

Liked this book - you didn’t spend the entire novel writing for the characters to get together. The story after that was not all that I was expecting!

Loved the story, love the setting, love the characters.

Xander is a great male main character, he is strong yet has his vulnerabilities and I thought he was very well created, I couldn't help but really care about him.

I think we all have that kind of fantasy of starting over, what would life be like if we just moved somewhere totally different and started again... and this book kind of brings that fantasy to life.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, I cared about the characters and found the setting in Yorkshire to be a really beautiful one to bring to life. I highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.

A really enjoyable read. Nell moves to an old farmhouse and starts a job at the local village school but things are not as they seem as she is hiding the real reason for moving ,which comes as a big shock to all her new friends find out. Some great characters who together make this a fabulous, warmhearted read with love at the heart of the story. Loved it

What a charming read! Delightful beach reading. I really enjoyed the banter between Nell and Xander.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

She's done it again! I absolutely love this author. I find it difficult to put into words how I feel about this book, which is why this review has taken me 48 hours to write. It is a beautiful emotional rollercoaster!

I absolutely adore the characters Lisa creates, especially the male ones 😉 and Xander is no different. He is shy, awkward, anxious... but can he put his insecurities and troubles aside to find love and success?

I also identified with Nell so much. This book was really about the bravery and difficulties of starting over, but I was really rooting for Nell to find happiness from day one.

I was completely sidelined by the twist as you to come to know (no spoilers) that she didn't just choose Humblebee Farm because it was an excellent deal. So why is she there? And can she really leave the past behind and have a fresh start?

I absolutely adored this book and I have no hesitation in giving it 5 stars.