Happily Ever Ninja

Knitting in the City #5

by Penny Reid

This is a previously-published edition - ASIN: B016YOCL02

This is a full length, 100k word novel, and is the 5th book in the Knitting in the City Series. All books in the series can be read as a standalone except book #1.5

There are three things you need to know about Fiona Archer… I would tell you what they are, but then I’d have to kill you.

But I can tell you that Fiona’s husband—the always irrepressible and often cantankerous Greg Archer—is desperately in love with his wife. He aches for her when they are apart, and is insatiable when they are together. Yet as the years pass, Greg has begun to suspect that Fiona is a ninja. A ninja mom. A ninja wife. A ninja friend. After fourteen years of marriage, Greg is trying not to panic. Because Fiona’s talent for blending in is starting to resemble fading away.

However, when unexpected events mean Fiona must take center stage to keep her family safe, her response stuns everyone—Greg most of all. It seems like Greg’s wish has come true.

Except… not.

When all is said and done, can Greg handle this new version of his wife? Will his irrepressible cantankerousness push her away? Or can the couple find a way forward without either being forced to step back into the shadows?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Audiobook, Fiction, Humor, Chick Lit

309 pages, ebook

First published January 19, 2016

About the author

Sign up for the newsletter of awesome: www.pennyreid.ninja/newsletter

Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.

FOLLOW PENNY:
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Reviews

[Penny Reid]

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[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!



If you read my review of Ninja at First Sight you know how much I loved Greg and Fiona and how excited I was for their full length novel. That novella still remains one of the best things I’ve read all year. I thought Penny would give us more of that Greg and Fiona + the normal married life struggles, kids, etc. I was wrong. This book took an unexpected twist. Greg and Fiona’s story is far from that of the normal married couple! There is much more action and excitement than I was expecting.

Greg and Fiona met and fell in love in college. Even though their lives and jobs took them in different directions at times, their love was always enough to keep them together. They’ve been married 14 years now and they’re still going strong.



While Greg is gone on assignment more than he’s home, Fe holds down the fort with their two children, Jack and Grace. Things aren’t easy for Fiona at home. No matter how tough she is (and she’s incredibly tough) it’s hard for anyone to essentially be a single parent more often than not. Something happens to Greg when he is on assignment and Fiona is forced to take action. She will not wait in the wings while Greg is in danger. She takes her badass ninja skills and gets to work to go get her man.

I really did love Fiona’s character. She took on the weight of the world and never complained or asked for help (even when she probably should have). I love how tough and strong she is. Greg got under my skin a bit in this one, which made me sad. Because I loved Greg so freaking much in their novella. He didn’t seem like the same Greg all grown up. I saw glimpses of him here and there, but he was different for me.



I think this story shows wether or not your marriage is typical or not, and Greg and Fiona’s is not- that it’s not easy. Marriage takes work and compromise. It takes listening to the other person, making sure their understood and taking their feelings and thoughts into consideration. Even though Fiona and Greg’s story is far from ordinary and their marriage isn’t mundane, it still has everyday issues and takes work. I liked that aspect of the story.

“That’s what marriage is. It’s the mundane. It’s the everyday. It’s the showing up and being there and supporting each other in a million different small ways that add up to a colossal commitment. It’s consistency.”

As much as I enjoyed this book, I do wish I loved this story as much as I did their novella, but the direction the story took at one point wasn’t my favorite type of read. Still- this was a great read. Penny’s writing is always smart, interesting and strong. I love her quirky characters and exciting stories. I will read anything this woman writes! Actually, one of my new years book goals was to read all her books that I missed out on! If you’re looking for an adventure packed story of a married couple, pick this one up! This is not your typical romance, and I wouldn’t expect anything else from Reid!

[Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️


There are some books you love, some books you hate and then there are those books in the middle.
The ones you just liked.
It is not necessary a bad thing. Although I know a lot of readers think a medium rating is not “good”.

It’s okay. I like my okay reads. I got a good time with a book but it didn’t knock my socks off. Not every books can. And it’s actually a relief.

I often said I would read anything by Penny Reid and it is true. She has a very unique voice but more than that she has a unique point of view.
She brings out romances stories where you’d think there couldn’t be one. She brings in alien elements in romances stories. Not alien from space, I mean strange / never-seen-before ideas. (Though, I’d give Alien Romance a go if Miss Reid wanted to explore this faraway side. Moving-on.)

She tells it herself, her books are weird.
Turns out I like weird and unconventional really much.

It doesn’t matter what you end up feeding the unicorn when he is found.
Because here’s the take-home message : there ‘s a man unicorn out there, right now, who cannot wait to dine on your lady closet and give you the horn in his pants.

Now where is all this coming from and where am I going with it?
I had unbelievably high expectations for this book, I’ve been waiting for it for a long time and adored the glimpses of Fiona and Greg as a couple in the prequel "Ninja At First Sight".

We were building a foundation to last a lifetime.

Once again Penny Reid created multi dimensional characters, unique characters, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Greg. And Fiona too.

And I wasn’t disappointed at first… sight.

Greg circling Fiona like a Shark, getting the girl and never letting her go. I loved this. Loved how bad, dark, cynical and unsocial he was but sweet, playful and so damn hot with Fiona. I fell in love with this. I fell in love with them.

…Each passing second is a moment filled with the absence of you and it suffocates me. I realize I promised I would be less morose in my correspondence, but I grip these empty sheets at night and curse them. They are cold where your body is hot and soft and so infinitely mine.
Perhaps I miss the feeling of you beneath my fingertips and belonging wholly to me. Perhaps I miss how you tense and relax in my hands, how you look at me with trust and want. If I’m honest,, it’s the want in you I miss the most. The need you have of me. Because it echoes the insatiable and feral nature of my need for you.
I miss you.
At this point you’ve no doubt already gathered I have sent neither chocolate nor flowers for Valentine’s. I do not believe in obligatory gifts any more than I subscribe to compulsory love.
As such, I send you nothing but this letter and my longing for you, neither of which I can contain. I love you.
Yours forever, Greg

I could give 5 stars to this book based solely on this letter. Alas, I’m cannot only focus on this alone.
In Happily Ever Ninja, I think I felt as disconnected to them as Fiona actually felt from Greg at this point of their lives. With Greg working long distance, her being overwhelmed by their 2 kids and her work and well, everything. Not easy being a single mom most of the year and staying…sane.

I guess a part of me wanted to reenact the feels left hanging in Ninja At first Sight, right off the bat. So a huge part of me not loving HEN is solely due on me and my expectations.
Expectations for more romance.

I resolve to listen to all your sweet sounds, be they signs or screams… each and every one.

Now, I really enjoyed a great deal of this book, it was pure Penny Reid-esque and so I couldn’t stop from grinning at the loony banter and situations, nor could I refrain from swooning at some really sweet lines between Greg and Fiona. Some parts I truly LOVED, adored even. I loved their routine as lovers, as parents, friends. I loved Penny’s way of describing this quirky dysfunctional—but nonetheless lovable—family. I did not expect it to be a Romantic Suspense novel and I did not expect it to be more action than romance.

If they don’t learn about launching rockets at home, then they’ll just learn about it on the streets.

Overall an okay read for me, but don’t let my moody-self deter you from reading the book. It was a good read, I had more than a few good chuckles out of it and even blushed a time or two. I’m very much looking forward to the next couple in this series, and will, as usual, keep an eye out for anything Penny Reid in the future.

My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you.

(Arc offered in exchange for an honest review)
More reviews and book talk at :

You can find me here too ☞

[Rachel L · Rating 5 out of 5]

FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED

5 badass mother stars!!!



I gotta say, Penny Reid continues to deliver a different kind of heroine to the romance genre. And every single one of them is incredible! Fiona was a heroine that I’ve never seen before and I fell in love with her almost immediately. Seriously, I have a girl crush on her (the kind where you idolize, not attraction lol). How many romances have you read that contain a badass mother who balances a job, kids and more? Other than this one I couldn’t name another title.

“Someone needs to appreciate Fiona for her badass skills, Greg. Because they are fucking awesome.”

Greg and Fiona were college sweethearts and have been married for about fourteen years. Greg works in Africa on oil projects while Fiona stays at home in Chicago and watches the kids and works. It’s a difficult situation but the two of them make it work. When Fiona learns that Greg has been kidnapped and held for ransom, she takes it upon herself to go after him and get him back.

If you’ve read the previous books in this series, you know that Fiona used to be a member of the CIA. So the idea of her going off to rescue her man wasn’t at all preposterous, in fact it was pretty much expected. And with the help of her friends she’s able to sneak into Africa.



I loved this book. Seriously. I’m not a mother, I’m not a wife, and yet I was easily able to relate to Fiona and her struggles and issues. And just because the characters were already married, doesn’t mean that the romance factor isn’t present in this book. In a way it enhanced it because we know these two people are in love, and watching them fight for their love was every bit as romantic as watching a couple fall in love.

There’s also the distinctive brand of Penny Reid humor we come to expect from her books, it’s one of the things that make her books so special. I laughed a lot while reading this book, it never failed to put a smile on my face. Greg and Fiona have this wonderful banter that makes me want to hug them both, but not interrupt them so as I can continue to watch them banter.

“I need you to clean the apartment, and pick up your goddamn socks, and stop making mindless messes-like we have magical cleaning fairies who orgasm every time they do the laundry.”

Separate from the story, my all-time favorite part of this book was the letters and notes at the beginning of each chapter from real life couples. Some of them made me laugh, some smile and others made my heart flutter. It was such a nice touch that added a lot to the book. I found myself wanting to highlight the letter before every chapter I loved them so much.

Every Penny Reid book I’ve read I have loved or enjoyed. I think it goes without saying now that she could write anything and I would love it. Even a description of paint drying on walls.

“My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you.”

ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review

[Geri Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

I tend to whine to my friends about the lack of romance books that revolve around an already married couple. And it's even rarer when the book in question managed to avoid the over-the-top plot devices that's common with this category but is still able to engage me emotionally and mentally. And Penny Reid has done just that in Happily Ever Ninja.

As you guys know, I loved this series. And as the series progressed, I've been increasingly intrigued by Greg and Fiona. We know that Fiona is self-possessed, smart, beautiful and Greg is her mysterious and mostly absent husband, but we never really know much about them as a couple and their marriage.

Thankfully, Penny Reid finally gave us their story in Ninja at First Sight and Happily Ever Ninja. In NaFS, we see the younger version of Greg & Fiona when they met and subsequently fall in love with each other in college, and HEN is a continuation of their story. NaFS will be included in HEN, so you don't have to worry about buying the prequel. Although, if you want to, it's still free on Amazon right now.

Anyway, HEN is everything I want in a book with an already married couple as protagonists. Their struggle were so on point, I couldn't help but laugh and yes, shed some tears at some of the things that Fiona and Greg went through in this book. Sure, I may not be an ex-CIA field agent like Fiona. And I know zero shit about Karate. But her feelings and struggles, her annoyances were so relatable that I wanted to hug her and commiserate with her. I mean, seriously, how difficult is it really to load the dishwasher properly???!? SPOILER ALERT: Not difficult.

Seriously though. This book was way too accurate in depicting the mundane and not so mundane situations in a married couple's life. And Penny Reid did it with her trademark humor and honesty, and it's just a joy to read.

HEN is told mainly from Fiona's point-of-view, but we do get a few of Greg's as well, which is a great thing because it allowed readers to understand Greg's motivation. It definitely helped me reconcile some of his actions because, I have to be honest here, some of Greg's decisions did not sit well with me. There were times where I intensely disliked him and I could feel my frustration right alongside Fiona, which in hindsight, makes Penny Reid a genius. I reckon this is what she wanted all along and she succeeded! Even though I didn't necessarily agree with everything they did or the decisions Greg and Fiona made, I still sympathized with them. And I felt such an immeasurable relief when they finally were able to work out their issues because I rooted for this couple.

Simply put, I adored this book. HEN is another great addition to the series. And if you haven't read this book or the Knitting in the City series, get with the program, people! If you're like me and you love lighthearted, charming and slightly quirky romances, grab a Penny Reid book. You won't be sorry, I swear!

ARC provided by Penny Reid in exchange for an honest review.

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Love and All Its Definitions Stars
* * * * * In Kindle Unlimited-The Whole Series FREE!
Spoiler Free
Only Penny Reid does this...Who else would wrap so many things together that have really no business being in a swoony, romance book and make all of it not only work.... but make sense...

I have been reading Penny Reid for a couple of years now and from the first experience, she has never let me down. Her brand of writing gives not only a romance to make your heart flutter and ache for it to be yours, but also has you stretching your mind and intelligence at the same time without effort.

All of Reid's tales have an extra layer... meaning some current topical theme which we may not consider in our day to day lives... but is as important as world peace. Each of her books have human needs clearly laid out for us to grab on to and ride throughout the story... but intermingled are other things that make us think about them... to recognize and say yes... these things are important and acknowledge they are real in our Real Lives. What we do after this acknowledgment is up to us...But what is so great about Reid is these themes are never preachy or inserted for shock value... they are an important part of the story and come naturally.

Happily Ever Ninja is actually in two parts... There is the first section as Ninja at First Sight which covers the beginning of this incredible and realistic love story. While reading this part I felt all of the awkwardness and thrill of first love/lust... the understanding of what these emotions and feelings were... and it was clear how these two characters were destined to be. We were there during the formation of this couple...and all the patterns.

She was a person who had experienced much in her young 18 years... but would be considered an Old Soul. She was rich in what overcoming serious obstacles gave but also just learning what the everyday teenage life brought.
We recognized nuances in Him; which made him so cunning and outstanding ...and gave the foundations for things to come...Huge moments of laughter, banter which could go on for days, insight into the pain of the world and love all-consuming and real.

The bulk of the book/ second section was a combination of past and present intricately woven reflecting on different parts of their years together and how patterns developed and what each person's responses were.

Just Like In Real Relationships...There are Real Letters from Readers to their loved ones as Chapter Markers... showing us how Real love can be between us... sometimes sweet...sometimes funny...sometimes apologetic and always heartfelt.

Because when people get together... they write unwritten contracts of sorts...Oh, there are heartfelt talks late into the night... where do you want to live...how many children should we have and will they be Ballerinas or Politicians or both...We talk about our careers and dreams... and sometimes even touch on household chores...

But underlining all of this is an understanding of "I'll be this for you and You'll be that"...and it feels right and good...
And that is Good...Until it changes... because all of life includes change...and it is the importance to address the needs you originally had which was the foundation of the relationship... to the current status of it...The love is there...The Need is there...it is the application of how each handles what was promised in the beginning and adapt to the changes... which is key...

And that is where Ms. Reid Excels. She has taken this Swoony, Wonderful Love Story given it a foundation we understand and actually take to heart... then leads us through what happens when years, patterns and life impact it.

Love does not diminish; it can expand and grow...but like Silly Putty... it can take on strange shapes that need to be readjusted and returned to the original essence...Of Trust, Understanding, Freedom, and Compromise/Give and Take.

This book includes all of the other characters from her Knitting in the City series and all of them do their part in this. We are gifted with POV's from Both Main Characters and I promise you, you will start this and will not want to put it down. The excitement level is supreme; the romance and love between these two is something to appreciate and take under advisement. The insight to what love should be between two people is right on and I am sure other reviews will expand on this... there are quotes abound which you will write down and file under IMPORTANT.

I file Penny Reid under that file, as well. This is an Author who has explored through her gift what are serious questions; friendship, caring, sharing and love of equals. She has taken all of these themes repeatedly through her works and brought them to us so that we can think about them too...
She has done it through smart, bitingly clever books which are just that bit of fun...and we are better each time we read her.

Neanderthal Seeks Human (Knitting in the City, #1) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Neanderthal Marries Human (Knitting in the City #1.5)
Friends Without Benefits (Knitting in the City #2)
Love Hacked (Knitting in the City, #3) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Beauty and the Mustache (Knitting in the City, #4; Winston Brothers, #0.5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Happily Ever Ninja (Knitting in the City, #5) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Dating-ish (Knitting in the City, #6) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Marriage of Inconvenience (Knitting in the City #7)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
January 1, 2016! What could be the best way to start a Reader's New Year....
Why reading Penny Reid, of course!
I am starting this which also has the additional Ninja at First Sight, too...
So all the goodness in one book.
Lucky me!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Because I have this undying need for Reid...
I Will Wait...

Because Reid writes with a tone, passion and crafting which rocks my world,

I Will Wait...

Because when reading the poetic phrases, the charming situations and now the Valentine's love letter from Greg to his Fiona...

I Will Wait...
but with my heart filled with the personal longing and devotion he expressed to Fiona....

For Ms. Reid's writing...

For I Will Wait not just till 2016...
But for whenever she writes anything...

A gifted copy was provided by the author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Dee Montoya · Rating 5 out of 5]

6+ You are my Superhero Stars******

(ARC kindly provided by Author)

Refreshing, entertaining and completely delightful. Happily Ever Ninja is very different from all the other books in this series. Penny Reid created a story that was thrilling because of it's unpredictability and also because, she was able to take something ordinary like a married couple, and turn it into something marvelous that makes the reader feel as if they are right and center inside the story.






Greg and Fiona have been married for a long time and have two amazing kids. They met while in college and everything about their life is standard. Fiona works from home, takes care of the children and manages the household. While Greg works as an engineer overseas, so essentially he is more away than he is home . Everything about this family is very typical (*wink), they love each other relentlessly and unconditionally but don't go thinking that is what THIS book is only about, because Fiona is not only funny but she is so extraordinary that the people around her and mainly her husband are convinced she is a Ninja. And Greg is so sexy, smart and talented that he managed to turn sarcasm into a superpower.

Like any other wife and mother Fiona starts feeling overwhelmed by the daily struggles and Greg's absence is starting to weigh heavy on her. After Greg's short, last visit, that ended in an argument, Fiona is feeling even more restless. Imagine what happens when she finds out, her husband has gone missing. No! Actually you can't imagine, because these are no ordinary characters, after all. Fiona will have to dust off her Ninja attire and enlist the help of her inventive and crazy bad ass group of friends to design a plan to go and rescue her husband.

"Fe?
Yes?
My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you."





You will be delighted with this story as you laugh and relate with all the shenanigans Fiona and all the ladies from the knitting group create this time around. This story was beautiful and tender but also very, very funny. I thought Fiona was so cool that I wanted to be her, but then I came to the realization that I sort of am her. Which brings me to, Thanking Penny Reid for writing a book where moms are cool, sexy, and awesome. And you know what? We are. I'm not one to pat myself on the back, ever, but perhaps we should. Maybe us wives, mothers, husbands, caretakers should feel good about all the hard work and all the sacrifices we make on a daily base for those we love. Maybe we are all Ninjas. So, thank you Penny for making me realize that I too can be cool.




If you haven't discovered this wonderful series yet, how very silly of you. Go and pick up any of them, so you too can join the masses and enjoy and worship all the awesomeness that is Penny Reid; creator of a world where knitting, drinking and panty parties are the law and friends are part of the family.

[Elizabeth Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are three things you need to know about Penny Reid:

1. She is a very talented writer with a very distinct voice. She is also hilarious.
2. She has slight mental problems. I say this in the most loving way possible because she is a friend of mine. (But for real, Penny? You keep warning people away from this book because you think they might not like it because it's not a typical romance. I mean, really? I hate to spoil your delusions, but you have never written typical romance.)
3. She is probably a spy. (Of course, she cannot admit this, because then she'd have to kill us all. And she's really nice and would probably regret having to do that. So just assume the spy thing and don't question her too closely.)

WAIT THERE ARE FOUR THINGS!

4. She could probably be an awesome thriller writer if she wanted. (see #3)

If you like romance that feels real, if you like deliciously attractive heroes with inappropriate senses of humor, if you like heroines that scare you a little with their awesomeness (but also you really want to have over for coffee because you feel like you could totally be friends with them) BUY THIS BOOK.

If you like reading about relationships that go way past the surface and beyond the "...and they lived happily ever after" of most romances, then buy this book.

No, it's NOT what you're expecting. But it will still feel familiar. And that's a good thing. No, it's a great thing.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm still REALLY ANGRY!

Everything I said below is exactly how I felt while re-visiting/listening to Happily Ever Ninja. Greg is one of the most frustrating but lovable, annoying but lovable, controlling but lovable character's I have ever 'met'. I swear I listened to this audiobook with a constant squinty-smirk. Squinty because he makes me want to scream, smirk because he's always a touch funny. What makes it even harder to hate him...he is absolutely in love and totally devoted to Fiona. I equal parts hated and loved him. But, in the end, he's perfect for Fiona.

Absolutely loving my re-visit/listen to Knitting in the City. Penny Reid, you are a LEGEND!!

**********

I was ANGRY!

This book left me with a Hulk like green tinge when I arrived at work each day. Listening on the train left me agitated, frustrated and a little overwhelmed. I would walk into work and it would take me a wee while to simmer down from listening to Happily Ever Ninja. Deep breaths, constant reminders that it's "just a book" and hiding helped. I have never read or listened to a book that had me this angry.

I was angry that women have to go through childbirth. I was angry that men sometimes don't see what is right in front of their noses. I was angry that people think they know what's best and they're not always right. I was angry that sometimes wives have to fib a little to husbands to keep the peace. I was angry that pregnancy feels like you're dying. I was angry that the hero made me laugh when I wanted to join the heroine and put him in a choke-hold. I was angry that the heroine didn't scream, shout, rant and rave when she should have. I was angry that love makes you forgive too easily.

I was angry because I recognised it all.

I was angry because I could relate to it all.

I was angry because we do it all for love, peace and happiness.

In the end, the things that made me angry in the story made me love it more. I'm not alone. Penny Reid again proved to me that she's a master of real women romance. I bow down in gratitude and thanks, Ms Reid, I don't feel angry and alone anymore.

[Christie«SHBBblogger» · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: Happily Ever Ninja
Series: Knitting in the City #5
Author: Penny Reid
Release date: January 19, 2016
Cliffhanger: No
HEA



After reading Ninja at First Sight, Greg and Fiona's origin novella, I was ready to jump head first into this book. I fell completely, irrevocably, and passionately for both of these characters. I would even say that they were perhaps one of my top Penny Reid couples of all time. (Though, I think I may say that every time.)

I was really looking forward to seeing what Penny's spin would be on a romance novel depicting a married couple. I applaud her for tackling such a tough theme in this genre. There's almost a stigma against reading about a couple that are long married. The struggles they face every day are perhaps too close to home to many, when we're looking to books for an escape into the "honeymoon stage" of romantic relationships. Greg and Fiona have maintained their love and passion for one another despite long distances and stress, and petty arguments. Even through their difficulties, you see the devotion that holds strong with them and it made me love them all over again.

If Greg died, I would die, too. I know I would. We have been married for fourteen years. He is my soul.

"I love you wildly, madly, completely, Fiona Archer," he growled, then groaned on a broken breath.
"I love you always."

Marriage is work. People evolve over time, and relationships must be closely tended and cared for. Even the strongest relationships can fall due to every day hardships, stress, and just generally taking one another for granted. I was excited to get a really introspective look into marriage with Fiona and Greg. However, after the surprise twist in direction that the plot went...well...it started to lose me. I'll get to that in a bit though.

Fiona has always been the Knitting friend who had somewhat of a mysterious past. There were hints that she was more than she appeared. At first glance, she's simply a happily married mom of two with an unconventional marriage to a man who was away from home more than he was there. Fiona is those things, but she's also a woman who has serious ninja ass kicking skills. She just doesn't get to use them typically since her stint in the US CIA ended. Yes. The CIA. That's a little tidbit she keeps to herself, no one likes to be the odd operative in the knitting circle. Who can blame her?



What she doesn't know is that Greg has a few secrets hidden that are going to shock her to her core and force her to put her hidden skills in practice once again.

Penny knows how to take fantastical and zany and with her charismatic way of spinning her words, she manages to enchant me and carry me along happily for the ride. This plot, like every one of her books is unique. In parts, I found this book to be just as fascinating as her other books. But then, sadly there were parts in which the pace slowed down more than I would have liked. The book started out along the path that I had anticipated. Giving insight into Fiona's daily stresses, her marital frustrations (accurately and winsomely addressed) were shown with Penny's trademark wit.

I need you to clean the apartment, and pick up the goddamn socks, and stop making mindless messes-like we have magical cleaning fairies who orgasm every time they do the laundry.

Oh, how I loved Fiona. She was, as always from this author, a strong and intelligent heroine that I could really respect. Greg's sarcastic inappropriateness was present and just as enjoyable as ever.



There were some who felt that Greg was more frustrating in this book, with his lack of appreciation towards Fiona. I never had a problem with him. It was all part of illustrating the genuine ups and downs of real life marriage.



Around halfway point, the story took a bit of a bizarre turn for me. I felt disconnected from their marital squabbles during the life or death situation that Fiona and Greg found themselves in. It just didn't seem like the right time or place that something like that would plausibly happen. While I loved both characters, the direction the plot went left me not quite as enthused as I have been in the past with this series. I appreciated the issues that were addressed, the fresh time spent with this lovable group of friends, and the humor and quality of the writing.

Even though this book is probably my least favorite of the series, I still found plenty of laughs and smiles through the entire book to keep me satisfied overall. Which is why I gave this one a three star rating right in the middle.

Every time I visit this group of characters, I feel like I'm coming home for a visit. Each couple is near and dear to me in their own way. I think I speak for every follower of the Knitting in the City series when I say that Dan's book can't come fast enough! We're finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel with a tentative release date set for October. Let the book stalking begin.

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[Catarina · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 Ninja Stars

Greg and Fiona are married for 14 years now, with two kids and demanding jobs that makes them spend more than half of the year apart.
And when you’re married for so many years and real life problems lurk everyday things are bound to change. People grow, feelings change and life doesn’t wait for people to get used to it. And relationships? Those are the biggest work of it all, either you learn to fight for them, or you’re not in it for the long haul.



When I’ve heard that Penny Reid was writing a book about what happens after the HEA, I was all over it. First because I’ll read everything Penny decides to write, and second because I’m a happy ever after addict and I’ll read everything that happens after that.
Now, don’t get me wrong, this was a pretty good book. Quirk, funny, with a refreshing storyline and a sweet couple all brilliantly wrapped up in a way that only Penny can do, this is definitely a book that will worth your while. However, it was not my Penny’s favorite so far. Not because the couple is married and with kinds and in a different phase of their lives: because that wasn’t what happened. Their jobs, the fact they lived in different parts of the worlds during most f the time due to their jobs and the “twist” of the book… it was a nice story, but to me it just didn’t portray the real “married life”, the everyday fights and routines, and that was what I was hoping for with this. The writing was amazing, the characters were solid and brilliantly developed (I can’t wait for Kat and Dan’s story!!) and the story was engaging. If you’re a fan of the series you should definitely read this.



Rating: 3,5 Stars
Steam: Some heated moments.
Sensible Subjects: No.
Love Triangle: No.
Cheating: No.
HEA: Yes.

[Samantha Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, Penny Reid can officially do no wrong. With every new book in this series the couple becomes my new favourite and Greg and Fiona are definitely my new favourites. I think their story got to me more than any other because their relationship was so realistic. They face the same ups and downs that people who have been together or married for a long time do. Ultimately, I think there is something much more powerful about the idea of a love that can survive all the highs and lows that life can throw at it, and Penny delivers this brilliantly.
HEN is finely balanced. It's not just about characters who put that darn ache in your chest. It's got the fantastic banter, wit, smarts, and the feels I've come to expect from a Penny Reid novel... not to mention more than a dash of action!

A wonderful read. I'll never have to read a Penny Reid blurb again. If she wrote it, I'm reading it.

[Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books




Happily Ever Ninja is best enjoyed if you have read Ninja At First Sight before. The novella will give you insight into the sweet beginning of Greg's and Fiona's love which started in college when Fiona left home to study - against her parents' wishes. I loved their sweet whirlwind romance and the way Greg just adored Fiona from the moment he saw her.

Her. There. She. You. Stunning. Are. Woman. Want.

Now, fourteen years married, Fiona is pretty much a single-mom since Greg works abroad most of the year. She does everything on her own, juggling household and raising her kids and often feels lonely. In the beginning of the book I blamed Greg for being away so much but leave it to Penny to show me that things are way more complicated than a selfish husband.

If you have read the previous installments you know that Fiona is considered the motherly type in the knitting group, wise, calm, intelligent with a not so secret carrier as a badass ninja CIA field agent. In her own book that image of her has been righted a little. She is a spirited woman in her prime but her light has been dimmed. She is exhausted, has a headache and is a little scared that those have to do with the brain tumor that has been in remission for a long time. Fe is still wise and intelligent but the tranquility is gone. The constant separation from the man she loves, the struggle with everyday life is getting to her. When her husband is being abducted in Nigeria the ninja in her returns and nothing will hold her back to rescue him.

I loved Fe. She is a super-mom and super-wife. She realizes over the course of the book that she actually has to voice her wishes to be heard. Always coming second doesn't work for her any longer. I loved that she started fighting for her love, for her relationship and her husband.

Marriage is an ultimate sport in emotional multitasking. I’m never only mad at Greg. I’m mad and madly in love; angry and concerned for his well-being; he frustrates and delights me in the same second. We were arguing, but we were still a team.

Greg was such a delight to read about. I loved his argumentative side that was almost always laced with a dose of dry humor or sarcasm. It was a little heartbreaking to realize that while he loved his job and was away a lot he believed - wrongly - that he wasn't needed when he needed his family so much in return. Greg's love for Fe was incredibly touching - even after such a long time she was still everything to him. He was high-handed when it came to Fiona's safety, overbearing and dominant but his feelings for her had a hint of despair and that caused my chest to ache.

“Because I’m desperate for you—and not just your intoxicating warmth and body. I’m desperate for your beautiful heart and brilliant mind. I’m desperate for you to need me as I need you—insatiably, completely, eternally.”

I enjoyed the aspect, that he took his short-comings seriously when Fiona started being vocal about them. Both of them were completely accepting of their imperfections - they didn't want the other to change in a fundamental way.

My Fiona wasn’t naïve, yet she was paradoxically an optimist and a realist.

I'm getting a little wistful thinking that my journey with this fabulous group of women and men will come to an end very soon. I'm doing a re-read of Dating-ish right now to be on top of everything when I finally start Marriage of Inconvenience.

I love everything Penny Reid. She has captured my heart - every book by her is special. I know when I open a book by her that I get something original and new.

“My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you,” he whispered, like it was a secret. A magnificent, beautiful, perfect secret.

[Ophelia's Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happily Ever Ninja (Knitting In The City #5)  by Penny Reid

Witty, Funny, and Thought Provoking this book was a gorgeous depiction of true love everlasting, told in a unique, fresh voice, I was compelled to keep turning the pages, and left wanting more.

Soulmates, the book is about and dedicated to them and nothing could have been more appropriate. What Greg and Fiona have is love in its truest, purest form.

“Because if Greg died, I would… I would be dead too.”

Oh. My. God I LOVED their love for each other and I loved them individually and together. They fit like puzzle pieces, they made sense together, and they were soulmates personified.

“I love you wildly, madly, completely, Fiona Archer”…The on a broken breath. “I love you always.”

The story starts 14 years after where the first book ended which was very disappointing because I wanted more from where Ninja At First Sight left off, but make no mistake I got over my disappointment very quickly because this book had me immersed in it and at the edge of my seat in a the blink of an eye.

They were married, with two kids and jobs. Greg was working overseas in an oil rig and was rarely home, Fiona was at her rope’s end taking care of two kids on her own and keeping up with work and her social life and worrying about Greg’s absence in their lives. Tension was high, but their love was the one constant that kept them grounded.

Fiona refused to ask for help from anyone despite her keen need for it, and chose to bottle up her emotions, compartmentalize her doubts and fears and keep pushing herself. An explosion was bound to happen.

Greg was working in South Africa oil rigs trying to make a difference, and help make the world a better place a cause he deeply believed in, but he missed his wife and kids desperately. He was not your typical tortured hero, while he went through some traumatic events early on in his life and is an ex-Marine he never channeled them in a bad way i.e. drugs, promiscuity, or any type of self-destructive behavior. It just made him love more ferociously.

“I’ve lost everyone Fe. I lost my soulless father to suicide. My mother to addiction. I lost my aunt to gang violence, and my best friend to a forgotten war in Africa.”

“Loving you, needing you, has happened quite against my will. I can’t lose you too.”

While he’s away Fiona gets a phone call that changes everything.

I don’t want to spoil the story so I’m not going to say anymore. All I can tell you is that the twist was so unpredictable, I was shocked for a good 10 seconds then I kept reading to find out more. Don’t worry there is no cheating, or anything of the kind. Their love for each other was deep and true and it stayed that way never wavering throughout the entire book. They went through some struggles and miscommunications and resolved them at the end. Nothing stupid though.

“Love was never enough, not without mutual respect and a great deal of drudgery and effort. And even then, it wasn't enough. Wanting each other, being open to change, pushing each other to improve and grow--for the better--working to deserve each other, was the key.”

The characters felt so real and three dimensional, with distinct voices and flaws and virtues, I relate to every one of them on different levels.

The writing was very unique, and eloquent, the switching of point of views and the flashbacks, were done very seamlessly, and flowed smoothly. 

This book is fast paced, action packed, and so funny I swear I was smiling so much the muscles in my cheeks got a much needed workout!

“How about you look around the kitchen and if it’s dirty you clean it? All of it.”

Greg’s eyes narrowed…

“I don’t know… That sounds like something Hitler would say.”

I was in stitches after I read that line!

Their love was so beautiful, and inspiring I got teary eyed multiple times while reading. Especially Greg’s point of view chapters, his love for Fiona was completely and utterly beautiful and unfaltering.

I fell so hard for Greg. 

“My heart keep discovering new ways to love you”

Swoon <3

I loved this book and I highly recommend it, if you’re in the mood for a funny, fast paced, action packed deeply romantic book then definitely pick this up!

4.5 Stars.

 

 

 

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Ninja at First Sight I was all about reading Greg and Fe’s story. The novella which is featured in the beginning of Happily Ever Ninja shows Greg and Fe first meeting in college. This little read was quite epic for me, from this novella I could just imagine the epic love story and connection they would have.



The actually story begins eighteen years later. Greg and Fe have been married for fourteen years and like most married couples have fallen into their roles. Fe is the stay at home mother to their two children and Greg is working overseas overseeing oil rigs.

I wasn’t sure what to expect in the beginning, because they are not even living in the same country when the story begins. I was concerned that most of the the book they would be separated. I was happy to see that wasn’t the case. While this is anything, but your typical novel I was happy to see that Greg and Fe are interacting throughout most of the story.



These two characters are some of my favorites. Fe is strong willed, determined and a complete badass. Greg is intelligent, witty and completely lovable. Together these two complete each other, but along the way they have fallen off track.

Seeing the struggles with Greg and Fe was the hardest part. Is it realistic for married couples to become stagnate, of course. However, that fact didn’t make me any happier with their struggles. Mainly because it felt like they had so many secrets and were mostly living separate lives. That was hard for me to overcome, since I had this preconceived image of them in my mind.



Penny Reid is one author that always impresses me with there intelligent writing and character development. It is so easy to fall in love with her characters. I am pretty sure Penny is a freaking genius, I mean the level of details regarding this plot blew my mind. I love this series, well really all Penny Reid's books, so I definitely recommend jumping in!

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Paige Bookdragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

marriage
/merij/
noun

--the last legal form of slavery
--a union where the husband can't even change the channel or touch the remote.


This is me when my older (married) friends talked about their marriage life:



Me when I was asked about any opinion about marriage



Thank God Penny Reid wrote a book about married couples without all that lying cheating and shit. It kinda put a cork in my cynicism that marriage is the reason for divorce.

Happily Ever Ninja came as something as a breath of fresh air for me. It's rare to find a book about married couples who has stories like this. It was fun, witty and still makes me giddy.



I'm not gonna put much in this review because you need to go into this book blind. You just have to know that this book has badassery, makes-me-teary-eyed-moments, I-wish-I-will-experience-those-moments and true lurve.



And before I forget, Greg has a British accent. Like seriously sexy, makes-my-panty-melt British accent.

[S.M. West · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 "Big Kaboom" STARS



I don’t know how Penny does it but every book I’ve read so far has me falling for BOTH the heroine and hero. Just LOVE her women; they’re not cookie cutter types (thank goodness). Each unique, strong, beautiful, bad ass and oh so smart!! And the men…no two are alike but again, each is strong, smart, sexy and endearing. This story is about Fiona and Greg Archer, married 14 years, and it covers a lot of ground that most married couples can likely relate to, to a point, as Penny gives us a lot more than just a tale about marriage.



As a married woman of 17 years, this book spoke to me.

“Marriage with children is a study in delayed everything – delayed conversation, delayed resolutions, and delayed gratification.”

While it’s got some serious action and suspense and by no means even close to my life - seriously! - the marriage and relationship was so real and so relatable for me.

“We never caught our breath. We were hardly ever a couple, because we were too busy being a family.”

Perhaps it was a case of misery loves company! I jest somewhat because reading's an escape for me and so you'd think, why the heck would you want to read about something you "live" daily? For me, Fiona and Greg were a reminder of some very important truths and their story was comforting to see that it’s no different for any other couple. Every relationship has it’s ups and downs and Fe and Greg’s relationship was like a mirror - reminding me that the struggle, the routine and the compromise is worth it.



While this may sound boring or unappealing, it was far from it!! Penny not only gives you the reality of marriage...

“I need you for the most mundane of tasks because that’s what marriage is. It’s the mundane. It’s the everyday. It’s the showing up and being there and supporting each other in a million different small ways that add up to a colossal commitment. It’s consistency.”

but she gives the history of Fiona and Greg, their courtship, their family, the lovable and quirky knitting gals and loads of action and excitement. And you might ask, who is the Ninja? Fiona is. I freakin' loved how bad ass she was!!

“She was a reminder that true and brilliant beauty exists in the world.”


At the beginning of each chapter, Penny also included correspondence: letters, notes, texts, etc., from couples from all walks of life and in different stages of their relationship...this was the icing on the cake. All of it so perfectly captured that relationships, and especially marriage, are complex and hard work.



“Because sometimes marriage to this man was wonderful. But sometimes it was a chore. Love was never enough, not without mutual respect and a great deal of drudgery and effort. And even then, it wasn’t enough. Wanting each other, being open to change, pushing each other to improve and grow – for the better – working to deserve each other was the key. I loved him and I always would. But that was the easy part. Working to deserve him and demanding that he work to deserve me, everyday – that was hard. But he was worth it. And I was worth it.”

**ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review.**

[~♡AB♡~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★ 3 Stars ★★★



Having read the prequel Ninja at First Sight (which is included in this book), I was so excited to read more about these two characters, who if you are up to date with this series, know that they are happily married with two children.

Fiona is a multitasking, intelligent and very independent woman who bears the bulk of the household responsibilities, due to the fact that her husband Greg, works most of the year abroad.

The first half of the book was a sure winner, I don't normally like to read about couples that are already together but if anyone was going to nail it then I had complete trust in Penny Reid to make me fall in love with the mundane every day dealings of normal life, and the ups and downs of marriage. I have to say, I was not disappointed in the least, I loved reading about their struggles to keep their marriage alive despite their time apart and I really felt their longing for each other.

The second half of the book however, took a slightly unexpected turn and I felt it was a little over the top in terms of action packed forays into the deepest darkest parts of Africa. It just didn't work for me and felt a little unnecessary.

Whilst my least favourite book in the series, I still adore all of the characters and highly recommend anyone to pick it up and experience the wonderfully funny lives of the women in the knitting group.

Happily Ever Ninja is a standalone romance, but part of an overall series of interconnecting characters. Told in Fiona's POV.

ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had a totally different feel from the previous books in the “Knitting in the City” series. Fiona and Greg have been married for many years and have two kids. Now they’re having to navigate the challenges of typical married life, including socks on the floor, nightmares, loading the dishwasher “incorrectly” and Greg never being home because his work always has him off on an oil rig somewhere.

I really enjoyed the two of them having to come together to solve their crisis together, and come to the realization they truly did need the other. They had a feisty relationship, and it was very interesting to read!

Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.

[Dali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refreshingly captivating and an absolute wonderful surprise. This sweet, funny, sexy and exciting romance is everything I hoped it would be and more.

“I love you wildly, madly, completely, Fiona Archer… I love you always.”

Fiona Archer is a dedicated mother and loving wife. She would prefer to have her frequently absent husband with them always but she understands that his job is not just important to him but to the world. Besides, she’s a super wife, super mom, super friend, super person all around who can handle just about anything that comes her way. Even finding out her husband has been abducted by a corrupt government. She knows that her training as part of an elite extraction team in the CIA is his best bet to get home safe. But can the alpha caveman ex-marine handle her being in harm’s way?

“I trust you, I do… But you are the mother of my children. You are my wife. You are my better half—you are my better whole.”
“I know what I’m doing. I’m good at this.”

Even though their time together is determined by his demanding job, Greg Archer has loved his wife completely, absolutely and deeply during the fourteen years they’ve been married and beyond. There’s no way he can live without her. He’s even willing to lie keep her safe. Can he accept her abilities so that together they can move past their struggles?

“Marriage is an ultimate sport in emotional multitasking. I’m never only mad at Greg. I’m mad and madly in love; angry and concerned for his wellbeing; he frustrates and delights me in the same second. We were arguing, but we were still a team.”

Happy Ever Ninja is dived in two parts. The first relates how Fiona and Greg met and fell in love in college. I’ve written a separate review for this sexy and sweet origin story. Part two starts in present day after the couple has been married fourteen years.

“I’m desperate for you—and not just your intoxicating warmth and body. I’m desperate for your beautiful heart and brilliant mind. I’m desperate for you to need me as I need you—insatiably, completely, eternally.” ~ Greg to Fiona

I loved this book about enduring love. This married couple’s struggles, whether everyday mundane things or bigger issues, were spot on. Even though I’m no super ninja, it was easy to relate with Fiona’s frustrations – how difficult is it to put dirty clothes in the hamper? I wanted to ask her if she would be my friend and invite her and her friends to my own knit/crochet group.

“Each marriage is a living thing, just as complex as the two individuals within it.”

I enjoyed reading their present day story from Fiona’s point of view while getting flashbacks dating to when they met through Greg’s standpoint. The latter giving a better understanding behind Greg’s decisions which I must say were sometimes downright infuriating. I completely commiserated with Fiona which I suspect was Penny’s intention all along.

“Sarcasm. Nice. Real nice.”
“Says the Supreme Ruler of Sarcasm Land.”
“I’m not the Supreme Ruler of Sarcasm Land, Fe. I’m the Earl of Cynicismshire.”

Greg was delightfully appealing as he was irritable, argumentative and sarcastic the later almost being his superpower. He’s also smart and sexy and also very easy to fall for being a loving father and adoring husband. And he also made me laugh and swoon continually.

“I quite like my private memories of you.”
“Private memories? You mean there’s more?”
Greg crossed to me, his gaze moving in a slow, cherishing path over my features. “If you knew how I saw you, how I think of you, your ego would become unmanageable.”

It’s wonderful how Penny layers her romance with real world important matters without them being in your face but at the same time highlighted in a way that are thought provoking. The way Penny starts each chapter is equally astounding. Including love letters, notes and chats from real couples which underlines that sweet, heartfelt and enduring love is very much real.

“Be sad. Be angry. But don’t be silent. Find ways to help, seek out opportunities to make a difference. Otherwise all this emotion will yield only helplessness.”

I’ve only read this full length novel by Penny Reid and I found her humor and style a true delight to read. I was torn choosing which quotes to read as I highlighted so much about this story about friendship and love, about understanding and trust, enriched by charming and clever characters and an exciting plot.

“My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you,” he whispered, like it was a secret. A magnificent, beautiful, perfect secret.

Happily Ever Ninja is book #5 in the Knitting in the City series by Penny Reid. This is a heartfelt, inspiring, humorously smart and sexy standalone book. Although I do strongly suggest you read Ninja at First Sight first. It’s told from alternating point of view with a happy ending.

5++ Happy Ninja stars

Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2j82w50


* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *

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[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



“I love you wildly, madly, completely, Fiona Archer,” he growled, then groaned on a broken breath. “I love you always.”

Have you ever read a book from an author who you know you can always count on to leave a big fat smile on your face? Well, Penny Reid is that author for me. In her newest installment to the Knitting in the City, Ms. Reid has knitted and weaved a story with so much depth, honesty, humor, sacrifices, and LOVE.



If you read the prequel, Ninja at First Sight then you were introduced to how Greg and Fiona met and fell in love in college. Readers got to see a young Greg and Fiona discovering their love, passion, and bond for one another. A bond that was tangible and palpable from the beginning. A bond that has been tested and will be tested as they embark on their lives together as a married couple. And so in Happily Ever Ninja, we are reunited with Greg, Fiona and their two kids.

“My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you.”

The love Greg and Fiona have for each other is just as strong the day that they got married. Without a doubt, these two completed each other and were each other's heart and soul. But after 14 years of marriage, it seems Fiona has all the weight on her shoulders. She has to be wife, mom, friend, and basically a ninja to keep the household in order. Fiona understands that Greg has to work for months off site for an oil company, so all the responsibilities back home in Chicago falls into her hands. With everything on her plate, all the stress and burden begins to pile up. So when Greg returns home for a few days, Fiona is thrilled to have her husband, best friend, and lover back but she is also sad knowing that he will leave again. As with any normal married couple, Fiona and Greg gets into a fight right before he leaves for work, and so it leaves an unsettling feeling among both of them.

“If Greg died, I would die, too. I know I would. We have been married for fourteen years. He is my soul.He truly was. He’d been my first real home, my first unconditional anything. And he still was. ”

So when Fiona gets a phone call that Greg has been kidnapped in Nigeria, Fiona doesn't hesitate to get on the plane and go rescue her husband. With her former CIA training and the help of her friends, Fiona rescues Greg from the kidnappers but along the way to safety, their marriage and bonds of trust is tested. Will Fiona and Greg rediscover what is needed to fix their marriage?

“I loved him and I always would. But that was the easy part. Working to deserve him and demanding that he work to deserve me, everyday—that was hard. But he was worth it. And I was worth it.”

Happily Ever Ninja was absolutely BRILLIANT. Ms. Reid has written a story that captures the true raw essence of what a real marriage is about. She showcases the ups and downs and doesn't sugarcoat any of it. What drew me into this story was how REAL the story of Fiona and Greg Archer was. It was refreshing to see a couple really work on their issues and express to each other how they hurt one another emotionally without realizing it. So if you are looking for a book that weaves raw emotions, humor, love, sacrifices, and communication then I highly recommend you to read Happily Ever Ninja. This book will showcase that in order to knit a happy marriage, both must find a common thread and for Greg and Fiona, their marriage may have got tangled up in a ball of yarn but once they figured out how to untangle the threads, they were able to knit their happily ever after ninja style.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Penny Reid

[Joshita ❤ · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.25★

“marriage is an ultimate sport in emotional multitasking. I’m never only mad at Greg. I’m mad and madly in love; angry and concerned for his wellbeing; he frustrates and delights me in the same second. We were arguing, but we were still a team.”

Wow, this was surprisingly heartfelt. I think this book gives me these feelings that I didn't need but wanted for so long.

Here is the truth—I didn't feel like I would even like this book. I had assumed it would be boring, and monotonous for me. But as it turned out, my opinions took a U-turn, lifted me off the ground, spun me 3 times with full force, hanged me upside down, and then kicked me in my face. I am lucky my nose wasn't broken, I can't fathom anything happening to this angelic face.

I often refuse to read books where the main protagonists are mothers. I don't have anything against mothers—believe me—I don't—I just said I DONT! Anyways, I go out of my way to avoid those books because I wanna read something that I can relate to, that I can pretend to relate to, and there is no way in hell I can relate to what a mother feels because I am not a mother. I don't have a mindset that a mother has. And this book also had an established romance...Fiona and Greg had been together for 18 years! And I also avoid books with established romance because they lack the thrill and excitement for that first kiss or first time having sex or anything first time. But MAN these ideologies don't apply to this...and I am sure they might not be true for every book with mother and established romance as well. There is no simple way of saying how much I loved Fiona and Greg.
I felt things and emotions that I didn't know I could feel. I felt the pain and longing...and I grew sad upon memories that I don't even have for GOD'S SAKE!!

“You’re ridiculous.” And I loved that he replied as expected. “It’s pronounced remarkable, darling.”

Penny Reid has become one of my favorite authors and I have been reading her books non stop from the last 2 months. So, it is clear that her writing is explicable. She wrote such beautifully about so many things, not only love but relationships, marriage, heartbreak, longing, loneliness, pain, the friendship—that no matter who you are, even if you are a cynical vessel..you are going to fall in love with these set of characters.
Reid portrays love so effortlessly in her books that it makes everyone have hope of love in their lives. Fiona and Greg's relationship made me believe in actual true love. It was so pure and sweet. They struggled and fought and misunderstood, there were obstacles but their endless love for each other even after 18 years was so surreal to read about. She knew what she wanted when she started this book and it is clear from page one, how much she has connected to this book. Also, as it turns out Greg is based on her husband!

To be honest, I was quite surprised by the plot. It is unlike anything I have read so far in the series. It was interesting, amusing, kind of annoying, dramatic, cute, funny and made no sense sometimes. I don't think I am a huge fan of the plot, for me, it was all about the characters. It did have some action to it and no offense but Reid's romance writing is much better than her trying to write an action sequence.

“You are a gossip, Greg Archer.”
“Yes. I am. Annoyingly, Alex is worthless at spreading rumors because he’s smitten with Drew."

Greg was an absolute sweetheart! I didn't think I would like him that much because he didn't make many appearances in the previous books but OH HOW MUCH I ADORE THIS MAN...BLOODY HELL!
Plus he is BRITISH! I mean if you are already not aware then I might inform you of my epic heart failures because of the mere existence of one direction—also add Tom (holland, Hiddleston, hardy), Sam Claffin, and mostly every other British actor.
Greg was so funny and witty and amazing. Where can I get one for myself! Honestly, Penny you gotta stop creating these perfect but "not perfect" men. You have raised my expectations so high that I will have a problem finding a partner.

Fiona has always been portrayed as the one in control and it was fun seeing her lose control. I just adored her. I don't necessarily think I was seriously ever annoyed by her throughout the book. And that speaks a lot in itself.

I also wanna talk about the notes and letters that were there at the beginning of every chapter...GENIUS. So, penny Reid asked for some couples to send her some letters, emails, texts, they have written to their significant others and she included those letters at the start of every chapter. They just made me so happy and want to cry happy tears.
HERE IS ONE OF THE LETTER THAT MADE ME CRY:

"Dear Husband,

I know there is a part of you that wanted children but has remained with me even knowing I can never give them to you. I also know you realize that I am lying when I say I never wanted them. You see the pain and yet you let me lie anyway…

-B."

This book was so heartwarming in many ways and God I really want everyone to read this series. I can't believe how good it is and how much I want EVERYONE to read it.

[FMABookReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

❝When people are overwhelmed, they can’t see past their own campfire.❞

Happily Ever Ninja was passionate and endearing, it was romantic and intense, it was sexy and sweet.

Without doubt, this book is different from others you will have read from this author. It is sexier, it is suspenseful and it is about the troubles of a married couple. BUT... it is also the same, in that the writing is just as spectacular, the characters are just as dynamic and the story is just as incredible as all of her other books.



There are two parts to this story:

What I loved so much about this book is that it is about the troubles Fiona and Greg face as a married couple …a real married couple. Like, the troubles that REAL married couples face. He is a workaholic who, when he is home, he can't find the hamper nor the dishwasher, and she can’t let go of her anal-retentive ways, nor her autonomy. They are having trouble coming together as a couple. We see them struggle with life and kids and the stress every day puts on a marriage.  Even a marriage between soul-mates.

I loved this couple. They were perfectly flawed, perfectly loveable, perfectly fit. Their banter was funny and sexy. When they came together as one, my heart melted.

❝My heart keeps discovering new ways to love you,❞

The other part of this story is the suspense. Fiona and Greg found themselves in a dangerous situation, one where working together would be better than working alone; but the question is will they allow the other person to utilize their talents and help? Or will they work by themselves like they have been doing in their marriage.

There was still Penny’s trademark humor, but it had a more serious tone than other Reid books. It was heartwarming. But above everything else, this book was incredibly insightful. Reid explores marriage - the ups and downs, what makes it fail and what makes it succeed. In full disclosure, there was a point at which I thought, OH NO, DON’T GO THERE… I was afraid of the direction the book was taking, because I wasn’t sure it was necessary. But I held on tight to my faith in this author. Penny Reid will make you think about relationships and marriage after reading this, and for that reason alone, I loved it!

❝Each marriage is a living thing, just as complex as the two individuals within it.❞

ARC graciously given in exchange for review

[Chelsea · Rating 1 out of 5]

More reviews available at my blog, Beauty and the Bookworm.

This is the worst romance book I'v read in quite some time, and that pains me because I typically really, really like Penny Reid. She's written some of my favorite contemporary romances. This one? No. Not so much.

The fifth book in the Knitting in the City series, this focuses on Fiona, the only member of the knitting group who was married before the series began. Her husband, an ex-Marine, is a consultant of some type in the oil business, working to try to make oil drilling more environmentally friendly and ethical (or something--it's kind of vague). Fiona is an ex-CIA agent (you can kind of intuit this from former books in the series) turned stay-at-home mom and part-time consultant. Their relationship is under some strain because of Greg's long absences from home for work, but they're trucking along, as they have been doing for fourteen years...until Greg gets kidnapped, and Fiona goes to save him.

First let's talk about this hare-brained plot. This is nothing like the other books. Reid mentions that, other than Neanderthal Seeks Human, this was the book she was most looking forward to in the series. It's basically a spy novel, though, and it does't fit in with the rest of the books at all. There is no character or emotional depth here. There is a novella about Fiona and Greg's origin story floating about somewhere, but that does not excuse shoddy plotting and characterization in the main book. We know that Greg was a Marine and something happened to his parents; but what? We know that Fiona was apparently a child gymnast and spent six to eight hours a day training, but beyond Greg throwing that out in an argument, there's nothing else about it or how it might have formed her as a character and influenced her decisions. And, by the way, you can want your kids to have a normal childhood even if you weren't a child gymnast, so it wasn't even a good point for the argument. Fiona's rescue mission was the most half-thought-out thing I've ever seen, and Greg's improvisations on it were even worse.

But the real problem with this book is Greg. Greg is the worst romantic hero ever. You know who I didn't say that about? Gray Eagle, the "hero" of Savage Ecstasy, which was terrible. Greg is worse. Why? Because Gray Eagle isn't supposed to be a good guy, and Greg is. Let me discuss some of why Greg is terrible with you. Ultimately, what much of it boils down to is that while he purports to love Fiona, he does not trust or respect her, which are, you know, kind of important factors of love. The examples of this are numerous and infuriating, such as...

-Greg's job takes him away from home for long periods of time; okay, that happens. However, while he's gone, he expects Fiona to live and parent by ridiculous decrees that he leaves behind, such as their five-year-old daughter is not allowed to have a princess costume, or their son can't play soccer unless their daughter does too, and their daughter doesn't want to play soccer. Greg pushes this as not molding their children to gender norms, but it doesn't work, because the daughter has lots of other interests that are not typically keyed to women, she just doesn't want to play soccer and she happens to like princesses. When it comes out that Fiona is letting her children have a bit of freedom--the daughter gets her costume, the son gets to play soccer--Greg pretty much flips and blames Fiona for making decisions without him.

-On the note of making decisions without him: Greg and Fiona do talk while he's gone, via Skype. However, Greg doesn't seem to want to be involved with making decisions, he just wants Fiona to follow his rules while he's gone and have phone sex with him. The book opens with Fiona trying to talk to Greg about their retirement, which he argues about why they basically shouldn't have a retirement investment because all corporations are evil, and then says he'll sign the papers if she has Skype sex with him, shows him her boobs, sends him dirty pictures, etc. He never does sign the papers, and his demands for sexual favors in return for acting like a Goddamn adult are ridiculous in the extreme.

-Even when Fiona basically single-handedly saves him from Nigerian kidnappers using her elite CIA training, he does not trust her planning or skills enough to get them out of Nigeria. Instead, he chooses to drug her against her will and haul her off into an even bigger mess of his own creation, which involves him getting re-kidnapped and almost killed in a gunfight and Fiona almost being arrested for treason.

-He has no respect for the work Fiona does or the hard decisions she has to make as a functionally single parent; he comes home, trashes the apartment, gets upset at Fiona for having a male neighbor/friend, and then mocks her when she expresses her anger and frustration at his behavior, before saying he loves her and leaving, as if saying that you love someone fixes everything you've done to hurt them.

-He was furious at her for keeping her CIA status from him earlier in their relationship and made her promise not to do anything dangerous beyond her abilities, but he doesn't have the respect for courtesy to act the same in his own career. Per a promise he made, he never brings up the CIA thing in arguments, at least vocally--however, he makes his resentment known, even a decade and a half later, through his actions towards her.

-He makes rape jokes that he actually thinks are funny.

Fiona eventually addresses Greg's behavior, demanding that he value and respect her. And poof! He suddenly does! But I don't for one secton believe that, if he clearly has not valued or respected her for the first fourteen years of their marriage (and eighteen or nineteen years of their total relationship; I forget the exact number), that he is about to start now, harrowing near-death experiences or no. Yes, marriages have problems; but this is beyond reasonable. Greg seems to have really loved Fiona when they were younger, and I don't blame her for marrying him. However, I do blame her for not divorcing him in a hot second by the end of this book, and I have to wonder where her spine has been for the past fourteen years if she's supposedly such a kick-ass person.



There are other problems with this book, too; Marie is apparently suddenly a lawyer though she never went to law school because she decided to take the bar exam one day, when this isn't actually possible--you can take the bar without going to law school, but you have to spend an extended period studying under an attorney or judge to do so. This might be addressed in the next book, Dating-ish, which focuses on Marie as the main character, but is an illustrated point that while Reid seems to have done some research on Nigeria for this book, she skimped in other areas. It's also not as well-edited, with misspelled, misused, misplaced, or just plain missing words in several places. It kind of feels like Reid was so eager to write Fiona's book that she just did it and never looked back to see if it was actually any good.

Let me wrap it up this way: if Happily Ever Ninja was the first Penny Reid book I read, I would never read another. That is not the case, however. I've read many of Reid's other books and like them quite a bit, so I will read more...but knowing that this is what Reid sees as one of her favorite stories and implied favorite heroes has made me lose quite a bit of respect for her as an author.

1 star out of 5.

[Paloma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow another book I read in 24 hours
3.75 Stars
I love Greg and Fiona

[BookLover · Rating 5 out of 5]

These women of the knitting group each have a story to tell, but each story is incredibly unique. Though tied together, these stories stand tall on their own. I’ll say this again, even though I say it after reading another book in this series, this story was even better than the last.

I got a tease of Fiona and Greg’s story in “Scenes from the City” and “Ninja at First Site”. My immediate reaction to both of these stories, which included tidbits of how they came together while in college, was to expel a loud sigh and look dreamily at my iPad mini. Then I would would coyly smile while remembering my favourite parts. Fiona was so pragmatic and lonely. I just wanted to hug her. Greg, Fiona’s loveably sarcastic obsession, completely won me over from the moment he showed up drunk to her dorm, begging to give Fiona her first kiss. But I digress…

Fast forward eighteen years, one marriage and two children later and Fiona and Greg were still as in love with one another as they were when they first got together. But there were serious obstacles standing in the way from things being fairy tale for them. From Fiona’s perspective, she felt like she was raising her two children alone with Greg being away for months and months at a time. Rather than voice her displeasure, though, she compartmentalized and always pushed her feelings and resentment down.

“I wasn’t a grudge-holder. As Buddha said, “Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.”

The result? Greg feeling like he couldn’t live without her but also feeling like Fiona didn’t need him. Their lack of communication lead to some passive aggressive behaviour and not helpful dialogue.

“Sarcasm. Nice. Real nice.”
“Says the Supreme Ruler of Sarcasm Land.”
“I’m not the Supreme Ruler of Sarcasm Land, Fe. I’m the Earl of Cynicismshire,” he countered flatly.”

The plot driving Fiona and Greg’s issues was so unlike the rest of the other books. I won’t give away any spoilers but what a roller-coaster ride of nail biting, stomach plummeting suspense and surprise. It was fantastic. Throughout it all, Fiona and Greg tried to work their way through the aftermath of some pretty serious lies. I really worried for their future, both figuratively and literally as the story progressed. Greg’s constant quips and comebacks were hilarious and reminded Fiona and the reader why we all love him.

“You’re ridiculous.”
And I loved that he replied as expected. “It’s pronounced remarkable, darling.”

Happily Ever Ninja was the perfect blend of “what happens after the happily ever after”, which we don’t typically get to see in romance novels, along with suspense and a fabulous ensemble of the knitting group. (With none of the contrived and frustrating obstacles thrown in to jerk around the couple that have already worked hard to get together) I loved every minute of it! I look forward to re-reading this story again and again, each time falling in love with Fiona and Greg.

[Feminista · Rating 1 out of 5]

Completely horrendous.

If anyone has read Knitting in the City 4.5, the prequel to this novel, you'll know how equal-opportunity loving these two characters are. But in this book, the hero completely runs roughshod over the heroine's choices. He lies to her repeatedly, he doesn't believe in her strengths and he discounts her.

This author has written about a completely different character. Or a hypocritical character who wants his son and daughter to do ballet and soccer together, but then treats his wife's opinion like it is worthless.

The heroine is also very unlikeable. Since when is it okay to be treated like that? Where is her self-worth?

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's cool and then there's Fiona. She's like superhero cool. This book is full of action and suspense with Penny Reid's fantastic rom-com style. She has yet to let me down.
This book touched a lot of cords for me because they were having the same arguments my husband and I have had. Years as a military wife and then more years of his working as an engineer in war torn places have left me very independent. You learn to keep the ever present fear for his safety in a corner of your brain while taking care of the children and the home. While I was worrying about the teacher conference he was hunkering down in bunkers while bombs exploded nearby. Therefore when he came home I kept most of the day to day problems to myself. We always tried to just enjoy his time with us.
I know that all sounds maudlin but it wasn't and still isn't. It works for us. He's happy to be making a difference, and we are very proud of his work. He's met some amazing people and seen parts of the world left out of the travel brochures, so his stories are wondrous. I keep telling him he should write a book. 😘

Reread March 2018: I truly believe Fiona’s days as a spy would make a great graphic novel. 😊

[Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t care how long you’ve been a couple before you make it official; marriage is not easy. It takes a lot of hard work whether you’ve been married two years or twenty years. It’s far too rare to find romance novels with main characters in their thirties and forties. As an older reader, I’m so grateful that Penny Reid penned a humorous yet thoughtful story featuring a mature married couple dealing with real life issues.



Happily Ever Ninja continues the story of Fiona and Greg. Their history is covered in the prequel, Ninja at First Sight, which is available for free download, but it is also included as Part 1 of this book. Fiona and Greg have been married for 14 years. While they are still very much in love, Fiona finds herself overwhelmed by everyday problems to which anyone who is married with kids can relate— juggling work and family, domestic responsibilities, financial concerns—all the while trying to maintain a passionate connection as husband and wife. It can cause stress in the best relationships. How Fiona and Greg deal with these complications is the main focus of the story.

I loved him and I always would. But that was the easy part. Working to deserve him and demanding that he work to deserve me, everyday—that was hard.

Greg is just as irreverent and loving as ever. He’s extremely protective of Fiona, almost to her detriment. Fiona is admirably strong, but she’s a people pleaser who nurtures others to the point of sacrificing her own needs. The drama created by their shortcomings and lack of communication frustrated me at times. However, the issues are completely authentic, and the tension is well balanced by an abundance of humor.

Ninja Ever After is a difficult book to categorize. It’s part romantic comedy, part drama, part action, and altogether engrossing and uplifting. I couldn’t put it down. Each chapter begins with notes and letters written by actual couples. Some are delightfully funny; most are romantic and poignant. It’s a nice touch that struck a chord with me. Penny Reid has a winner on her hands with an enchanting, heartfelt story of enduring love.

** ARC received in exchange for an honest review. **

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book!
After reading Ninja at First Sight, I fell in love with Greg and Fiona. Not only are they married, and happily so, but they're hilarious together. The banter between them is golden. Greg is exceptionally funny, with a dry sense of humor heavily laced with sarcasm. How can you not love that? And then there's Fiona. She's played minor roles in the previous books, but I have to say she's one of my favorite heroines in this series.

It's not common to see a romance book about married couples, is it? We get to see the chase, the angst and desperation of getting someone, but what about after? This is why I loved this book. 18 years together, 14 of those married, and Greg and Fiona are going strong, but there's a strain there weighing down on Fiona. The issues this couple went through, the problems that kept rising up were so spot-on, so relatable! Any married couple or a couple that has been together for a long time will not only attest to the accuracy and hilarity that is married life, but also to its complications and emotional ups and downs. Penny presented Greg and Fiona in the most realistic, most endearing, most heartfelt way.

There's a lot of action in this one as compared to her previous books in the series, but what remains the same is the intelligent dialogue, witty one liners and fantastic secondary cast we've come to adore. I won't divulge anything about the plot since it would spoil everything, but it was entertaining and very cool. Did I mention I love Fiona and her bad-assery? She's awesome!
Greg...I loved this man. His British accent, dry humour and unequivocal dedication and love for Fiona was palpable. You could feel his crushing concern for her and everything she represented for him. The issues Fiona had with Greg were, as any woman can attest to, very real and very relatable.

Anyways! This was lovely. This series is fantastic and if you haven't picked up a PR book, you really should. Her writing, humour and originality never cease to impress me. Loved it.

Release date: January 19/16.

*Arc generously provided by Penny Reid for review*