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The Playground
Looking to escape her old life, Nancy and her ten-year-old daughter Lara move to Ripton. A quiet, picturesque village in the rolling Derbyshire countryside, it seems like the perfect place to settle down.
But when Nancy reaches the school gates, she learns that beneath the quaint village atmosphere is a minefield. And after her daughter clashes with her school friends, Nancy quickly finds herself outside the whispering circle of parents.
As much as Nancy finds the playground politics absurd, they soon become impossible to ignore when Lara is accused of hurting another girl.
Desperate to clear Lara's name, Nancy is about to learn just what lengths a parent will go to for their child . . .
But when Nancy reaches the school gates, she learns that beneath the quaint village atmosphere is a minefield. And after her daughter clashes with her school friends, Nancy quickly finds herself outside the whispering circle of parents.
As much as Nancy finds the playground politics absurd, they soon become impossible to ignore when Lara is accused of hurting another girl.
Desperate to clear Lara's name, Nancy is about to learn just what lengths a parent will go to for their child . . .
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2023
77 people are currently reading
943 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Frances
13 books756 followersMichelle's books have been published in 21 countries and have sold three quarters of a million copies worldwide. She is a USA Today bestseller and has charted at No. 1 on both Amazon Kindle and Apple UK.
Her first novel, The Girlfriend, became an international best seller. She is also the author of The Playground, The Boyfriend, Sisters, The Daughter and The Temp.
Find out more at http://michellefrancesbooks.com
Her first novel, The Girlfriend, became an international best seller. She is also the author of The Playground, The Boyfriend, Sisters, The Daughter and The Temp.
Find out more at http://michellefrancesbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
April 9, 2023
*3.5 stars*
Nancy and her daughter Lara move to the quaint and pretty Derbyshire village of Ripton. The house and surrounding land is beautiful, leading right down to a picturesque reservoir. This is to be a new start for both of them after a truly traumatic time
However, when Lara starts school, both herself and Nancy find themselves on the outside of certain cliques, and discover just how vicious playground politics can become, involving as they do, bullying tactics by offended or envious parents and their children, deliberately leaving out another’s child from play dates, birthday parties, playtime games - and garnering the support of their cliques to get others to do the same. Bad enough, but sometimes it’s elevated to an even higher level!
Queen Bee Imogen, and her daughter Rosie are the instigators of the bullying in this case, causing distress and suffering in their wake, the ripples of which ebb their way around the village, and together with WhatsApp gossips, bigoted whingers, illicit affairs, and dog poisonings, the events in Ripton reach a crescendo on the night of The Straw Bear Festival.
Really enjoyed this, but have one criticism - I found the ending was just too rushed.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Nancy and her daughter Lara move to the quaint and pretty Derbyshire village of Ripton. The house and surrounding land is beautiful, leading right down to a picturesque reservoir. This is to be a new start for both of them after a truly traumatic time
However, when Lara starts school, both herself and Nancy find themselves on the outside of certain cliques, and discover just how vicious playground politics can become, involving as they do, bullying tactics by offended or envious parents and their children, deliberately leaving out another’s child from play dates, birthday parties, playtime games - and garnering the support of their cliques to get others to do the same. Bad enough, but sometimes it’s elevated to an even higher level!
Queen Bee Imogen, and her daughter Rosie are the instigators of the bullying in this case, causing distress and suffering in their wake, the ripples of which ebb their way around the village, and together with WhatsApp gossips, bigoted whingers, illicit affairs, and dog poisonings, the events in Ripton reach a crescendo on the night of The Straw Bear Festival.
Really enjoyed this, but have one criticism - I found the ending was just too rushed.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
March 23, 2023
3.5 rounded up
Nancy buys Willow Barn in the quiet Derbyshire village of Ripton desperately needing a fresh start for herself and daughter Lara. However, it soon becomes clear that her reception in the playground is less than warm but it’s not clear why. When her daughter is accused of hurting another girl, Nancy and Lara become increasingly isolated and the subject of gossip. Nancy wants to clear Lara’s name but clearly more than one parent in Ripton will do whatever it takes for their child.
Take my advice - if you’re looking for peace and quiet avoid Ripton like the plague or maybe that should just be the playground coven of witchery, trickery and b******y. The author does a good job in conveying the malice of those unlikeable characters whose tittle tattle is so destructive and mean, raising animosity even if there’s little basis of truth. Some of these women and children, well one child in particular, are something else and maybe said offspring should be renamed Cruella de Vil. Your sympathies lie with Nancy although she doesn’t always respond sensibly. There’s a nasty bullying element that is also conveyed well although I’m not entirely sure I buy into all the drama but it does make for compelling reading especially one aspect of manipulation. There’s a lot going on in this small village, it sure is a lively place with dark undertones, deception and worse. The pace is mostly quick, it’s an easy to read, glide through book in a nice setting which is well described.
Although this is a diverting novel there is a lot of over explanation and unnecessary detail that halts the pace and gets in the way of the unfolding dramatic situation. Parts of the ending seem a bit rushed but the ultimate twist is so good! That takes me by surprise! Nicely played!
Overall, this is a take to the beach escapist read which is often just what’s needed!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan McMillan for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Nancy buys Willow Barn in the quiet Derbyshire village of Ripton desperately needing a fresh start for herself and daughter Lara. However, it soon becomes clear that her reception in the playground is less than warm but it’s not clear why. When her daughter is accused of hurting another girl, Nancy and Lara become increasingly isolated and the subject of gossip. Nancy wants to clear Lara’s name but clearly more than one parent in Ripton will do whatever it takes for their child.
Take my advice - if you’re looking for peace and quiet avoid Ripton like the plague or maybe that should just be the playground coven of witchery, trickery and b******y. The author does a good job in conveying the malice of those unlikeable characters whose tittle tattle is so destructive and mean, raising animosity even if there’s little basis of truth. Some of these women and children, well one child in particular, are something else and maybe said offspring should be renamed Cruella de Vil. Your sympathies lie with Nancy although she doesn’t always respond sensibly. There’s a nasty bullying element that is also conveyed well although I’m not entirely sure I buy into all the drama but it does make for compelling reading especially one aspect of manipulation. There’s a lot going on in this small village, it sure is a lively place with dark undertones, deception and worse. The pace is mostly quick, it’s an easy to read, glide through book in a nice setting which is well described.
Although this is a diverting novel there is a lot of over explanation and unnecessary detail that halts the pace and gets in the way of the unfolding dramatic situation. Parts of the ending seem a bit rushed but the ultimate twist is so good! That takes me by surprise! Nicely played!
Overall, this is a take to the beach escapist read which is often just what’s needed!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan McMillan for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
July 2, 2023
mean girls have kids,
and it only makes them
more bitchy and childish:
the trickiest story about
bullying I've read lately. ♡
and it only makes them
more bitchy and childish:
the trickiest story about
bullying I've read lately. ♡
August 18, 2024
Fast paced and compelling, this is another addictive contemporary thriller from an author I really enjoy.
The setup is simple and it's easy to warm to Nancy and her ten-year-old daughter Lara who've moved to a seemingly quiet picturesque village of Ripon after a tragedy.
From the outset this seems like the ideal fresh start, but bubbling under the surface is an atmosphere and things start to escalate when Lara is accused of bulling another child and Nancy is soon targeted.
The inclusion of a mums WhatsApp group highlights how quickly rumours can spread with plenty of bitchiness.
Readers should be aware that some of the subjects tackled can be triggering with bullying and a spate of dog poisoning.
I don't think this was Frances strongest novel as at time I found myself confusing the different characters, but it was still a quick page turner.
The setup is simple and it's easy to warm to Nancy and her ten-year-old daughter Lara who've moved to a seemingly quiet picturesque village of Ripon after a tragedy.
From the outset this seems like the ideal fresh start, but bubbling under the surface is an atmosphere and things start to escalate when Lara is accused of bulling another child and Nancy is soon targeted.
The inclusion of a mums WhatsApp group highlights how quickly rumours can spread with plenty of bitchiness.
Readers should be aware that some of the subjects tackled can be triggering with bullying and a spate of dog poisoning.
I don't think this was Frances strongest novel as at time I found myself confusing the different characters, but it was still a quick page turner.
July 17, 2023
Man-o-man or more accurately women-o-women!
A book so fraught with anger at human behaviour I wanted to strangle some characters. Based purely on the emotions this book created, I have to give it five stars. Writing/flow/plot - probably four stars.
I’ve read quite a few recently with bullying as the main premise. None have been quite this traumatic though. Policy, political correctness and the power of social media combine to create a very powerful read.
There were a lot of triggers for me, so I found I had to read other books in between to save my blood pressure boiling over. Sadly, it is all very true of society and what some feel is appropriate behaviour.
A book so fraught with anger at human behaviour I wanted to strangle some characters. Based purely on the emotions this book created, I have to give it five stars. Writing/flow/plot - probably four stars.
I’ve read quite a few recently with bullying as the main premise. None have been quite this traumatic though. Policy, political correctness and the power of social media combine to create a very powerful read.
There were a lot of triggers for me, so I found I had to read other books in between to save my blood pressure boiling over. Sadly, it is all very true of society and what some feel is appropriate behaviour.
April 9, 2024
Nancy en haar tienjarige dochter Lara ontvluchten hun oude leven en verhuizen naar Ripton, een pittoresk dorpje op het platteland van Derbyshire. Op het eerste gezicht lijkt dit de perfecte plek om na een akelig jaar opnieuw te beginnen.
Maar als Nancy het schoolplein op loopt, leert ze al snel dat achter het vredige imago een mijnenveld schuilgaat. Hoe absurd ze de ongeschreven regels op het schoolplein ook vindt, ze kan ze onmogelijk negeren.
Als haar dochter ruzie krijgt met een klasgenootje, wordt Nancy slachtoffer van het geroddel onder de ouders. Ze probeert wanhopig haar naam te zuiveren maar ze heeft nog niet door dat ouders door het vuur gaan voor hun eigen kind…
'Het schoolplein' is de nieuwste thriller van Michelle Frances en ik heb deze als e-book gelezen.
Zoals de titel al aangeeft, is het onderwerp: school. Nancy komt met haar dochter Lara in een dorpje wonen en ze maakt kennis met andere moeders aan het schoolplein. Niet iedereen lijkt van haar gecharmeerd te zijn, dus je voelt al meteen bepaalde jaloezie en afgunst in het groepje.
Dan krijgt haar dochter ook nog ruzie met één van de populairste meiden, dus de spanning tusse deze twee moeders is helemaal om te snijden.
Langzaam lopen bepaalde dingen uit de hand en de onderlinge spanning tussen de moeders neemt steeds verder toe. Sommige hoofdstukken bestaan ook uit chatgesprekken die de moeders samen hebben opgericht en dat vond ik ook wel een leuke toevoeging.
Of het een echte thriller is weet ik niet. Het wordt namelijk niet superspannend, maar ik vond de constante afgunst en strijd tussen de moeders wel interessant om te lezen. Zo ook natuurlijk de verschillende gebeurtenissen tussen Lara en het populaire meisje...
'Het schoolplein' vind ik tot op heden nu wel het beste en leukst geschreven verhaal van deze auteur, dus ik kijk zeker weer uit naar haar nieuwe boek!
Beoordeling: 3,5 ⭐️
Maar als Nancy het schoolplein op loopt, leert ze al snel dat achter het vredige imago een mijnenveld schuilgaat. Hoe absurd ze de ongeschreven regels op het schoolplein ook vindt, ze kan ze onmogelijk negeren.
Als haar dochter ruzie krijgt met een klasgenootje, wordt Nancy slachtoffer van het geroddel onder de ouders. Ze probeert wanhopig haar naam te zuiveren maar ze heeft nog niet door dat ouders door het vuur gaan voor hun eigen kind…
'Het schoolplein' is de nieuwste thriller van Michelle Frances en ik heb deze als e-book gelezen.
Zoals de titel al aangeeft, is het onderwerp: school. Nancy komt met haar dochter Lara in een dorpje wonen en ze maakt kennis met andere moeders aan het schoolplein. Niet iedereen lijkt van haar gecharmeerd te zijn, dus je voelt al meteen bepaalde jaloezie en afgunst in het groepje.
Dan krijgt haar dochter ook nog ruzie met één van de populairste meiden, dus de spanning tusse deze twee moeders is helemaal om te snijden.
Langzaam lopen bepaalde dingen uit de hand en de onderlinge spanning tussen de moeders neemt steeds verder toe. Sommige hoofdstukken bestaan ook uit chatgesprekken die de moeders samen hebben opgericht en dat vond ik ook wel een leuke toevoeging.
Of het een echte thriller is weet ik niet. Het wordt namelijk niet superspannend, maar ik vond de constante afgunst en strijd tussen de moeders wel interessant om te lezen. Zo ook natuurlijk de verschillende gebeurtenissen tussen Lara en het populaire meisje...
'Het schoolplein' vind ik tot op heden nu wel het beste en leukst geschreven verhaal van deze auteur, dus ik kijk zeker weer uit naar haar nieuwe boek!
Beoordeling: 3,5 ⭐️
February 26, 2023
I wasn't initially sure if I was going to enjoy The Playground. There's a bit of an info dump in the first few pages (Nancy wanted to move out of London. She thought it would be nice to live in the country. She bought a house on a lake) which was a bit off putting, but I soon got into it.
As it turns out, life in the countryside isn't quite what Nancy expected, and when she and ten year old daughter Lara get off on the wrong foot with some of the local residents, it all turns into a bit of a nightmare. A toxic mix of resentment, jealousy and bad luck lead to some nasty bullying at school for Lara, orchestrated by mean girl Rosie, and Nancy being more or less ostracised by the other mothers. (Extracts from the "mums"' WhatsApp chats are a shining example of groupthink, few being willing to challenge the growing anti-Nancy orthodoxy.) Meanwhile there's all sorts of dodgy stuff going on in this village, including adultery, theft and a spate of dog poisonings. Clearly, it's not going to end well for somebody.
Not everything rang true - I'm not sure a kid in the last year of primary school would plausibly believe a classmate's threat to "kill her mum" if she didn't go along with what she wanted. And "Journalist" Erin is, judging by her stories here, a ridiculously bad writer (but maybe that's deliberate).
Overall this was a good read, even if the characters didn't always act in entirely believable ways. The bullying and victimisation was well described and I really felt the helplessness of the main characters when people and circumstances conspire against them. Nancy's desire to protect her child is entirely understandable, even if unwise at times.
Ultimately an enjoyable escapist read.
As it turns out, life in the countryside isn't quite what Nancy expected, and when she and ten year old daughter Lara get off on the wrong foot with some of the local residents, it all turns into a bit of a nightmare. A toxic mix of resentment, jealousy and bad luck lead to some nasty bullying at school for Lara, orchestrated by mean girl Rosie, and Nancy being more or less ostracised by the other mothers. (Extracts from the "mums"' WhatsApp chats are a shining example of groupthink, few being willing to challenge the growing anti-Nancy orthodoxy.) Meanwhile there's all sorts of dodgy stuff going on in this village, including adultery, theft and a spate of dog poisonings. Clearly, it's not going to end well for somebody.
Not everything rang true - I'm not sure a kid in the last year of primary school would plausibly believe a classmate's threat to "kill her mum" if she didn't go along with what she wanted. And "Journalist" Erin is, judging by her stories here, a ridiculously bad writer (but maybe that's deliberate).
Overall this was a good read, even if the characters didn't always act in entirely believable ways. The bullying and victimisation was well described and I really felt the helplessness of the main characters when people and circumstances conspire against them. Nancy's desire to protect her child is entirely understandable, even if unwise at times.
Ultimately an enjoyable escapist read.
May 26, 2024
‘Het schoolplein’ is al vanaf het bekend boeiend en spannend. Ik vloog door de korte hoofdstukken heen en ik vond het leuk om ook binnen te koekeloeren bij de andere moeders. Ook daar is niet alles perfect en afgunst maakt meer kapot dan je lief is blijkt maar weer. Ook weten de moeders elkaar flink op te jutten en op het schoolplein lopen de gemoederen dan ook vaak op.
Lees verder op mijn blog :)
Lees verder op mijn blog :)
September 5, 2025
Zakończenie jakby na chybcika pisane i niby miało powiać grozą, ale nijak nie pasowało do całości
August 21, 2025
4,5 ⭐️
Ta końcówka mogłaby być bardziej emocjonalna, jak było to w przypadku całej historii.
Ta końcówka mogłaby być bardziej emocjonalna, jak było to w przypadku całej historii.
July 3, 2023
I’m a big fan of Michelle Frances’ books, but I’m afraid this one just didn’t live up to her usual standard, despite the fact I was enjoying it right up until the last few chapters.
The premise was great, about a young widow and her daughter moving to a small village and both finding it hard to fit in. There are several storylines, all of which are well developed and believable: school bullying, mum cliques, an affair, misappropriation of school funds, mysterious dog deaths, etc. etc.
I liked the short, snappy chapters and the build-up of tension, all of which indicated a looming climax. But then it all fizzled out, and instead of a thrilling denouement, what transpired was a massive info dump, Such a bizarre way to finish off an otherwise immersive read. It felt like the author had grown bored of the story, or run out of ideas, so just threw everything into an epilogue.
I don’t think I’ve ever felt so let down at an ending and am still shaking my head in disbelief.
The premise was great, about a young widow and her daughter moving to a small village and both finding it hard to fit in. There are several storylines, all of which are well developed and believable: school bullying, mum cliques, an affair, misappropriation of school funds, mysterious dog deaths, etc. etc.
I liked the short, snappy chapters and the build-up of tension, all of which indicated a looming climax. But then it all fizzled out, and instead of a thrilling denouement, what transpired was a massive info dump, Such a bizarre way to finish off an otherwise immersive read. It felt like the author had grown bored of the story, or run out of ideas, so just threw everything into an epilogue.
I don’t think I’ve ever felt so let down at an ending and am still shaking my head in disbelief.
August 25, 2025
Matki i ich pociechy - czy na tym można oprzeć fabułę thrillera? O tak, bo my matki potrafimy walczyć jak lwice, gdy naszym dzieciom dzieje się krzywda. I cóż, prawda jest taka, że pod wpływem emocji nie zawsze jesteśmy obiektywne w ocenie sytuacji. Najczęściej to cały otaczający świat jest winny, a nie nasza kochana córka czy syn.
W „Placu zabaw” Anna Bailey udowadnia, że w codzienności rodzą się największe dramaty. Bo matki w obliczu zagrożenia potrafią stracić z oczu granice tego, co słuszne, a co już niszczy innych. A jeszcze bardziej niebezpieczne są w grupie. Wtedy zaczyna się bezwzględna rywalizacja i polowanie na czarownice.
Nancy i jej córka Lara przyjeżdżają do niewielkiej, malowniczej miejscowości, by zacząć życie od nowa. Dom nad jeziorem ma być azylem, miejscem spokoju po trudnych miesiącach. Ale nowy początek szybko zamienia się w pole bitwy, bo tutaj nawet dziecięce przyjaźnie stają się walutą, a czat klasowych matek to arena pełna walki, złośliwości i oskarżeń. Szpilek wbijanych subtelnie, insynuacji i zarzutów rzucanych prosto z mostu. Prawdziwe gniazdo żmij.
Ależ porwał mnie klimat tej powieści! Napięcie rosło z każdą chwilą i z bijącym sercem wypatrywałam, co przyniesie kolejna strona. Jak to się skończy? Czy dojdzie do tragedii? A może przyjdzie otrzeźwienie i uda się jej uniknąć?
Jednak małe kłamstwa zaczynają żyć własnym życiem, a uprzedzenia i zazdrość rosną jak kula śniegowa. Autorka świetnie pokazuje, jak łatwo społeczność może zamienić się w tłum gotowy kogoś ukamienować. I jak cienka jest granica między obroną własnego dziecka a potrzebą udowodnienia swojej racji za wszelką cenę.
„Plac zabaw” to historia, która budzi emocje tym silniejsze, że może przydarzyć się każdemu z nas. Ot tak, od jednego słowa, jednego nieporozumienia, jednego zazdrosnego spojrzenia. Pokazuje, jak łatwo jest wyrządzić krzywdę i jak trudno odzyskać czyjeś zaufanie. To opowieść o tym, że toksyczne ambicje rodziców mogą być groźniejsze niż dziecięce konflikty i - co uzmysławia nam zakończenie - że czasem prawda jest dużo bardziej skomplikowana, niż chcielibyśmy wierzyć.
Przeczytajcie i osądźcie sami, czy porównanie klimatu tej powieści do gniazda żmij jest trafne. Moim zdaniem jest wręcz idealne, bo roi się w niej od syczących szeptów, ukrytych jadowitych spojrzeń i matczynej gotowości do ataku. I właśnie w tej zatrutej codzienności, w zwyczajnym życiu, w relacjach matek i dzieci, które w obliczu zagrożenia stają się bardziej drapieżne niż same potrafią sobie wyobrazić, tkwi największa siła tego thrillera. I przyznam szczerze, że ten klimat absolutnie mnie porwał, a książkę czytałam z wypiekami na twarzy!
W „Placu zabaw” Anna Bailey udowadnia, że w codzienności rodzą się największe dramaty. Bo matki w obliczu zagrożenia potrafią stracić z oczu granice tego, co słuszne, a co już niszczy innych. A jeszcze bardziej niebezpieczne są w grupie. Wtedy zaczyna się bezwzględna rywalizacja i polowanie na czarownice.
Nancy i jej córka Lara przyjeżdżają do niewielkiej, malowniczej miejscowości, by zacząć życie od nowa. Dom nad jeziorem ma być azylem, miejscem spokoju po trudnych miesiącach. Ale nowy początek szybko zamienia się w pole bitwy, bo tutaj nawet dziecięce przyjaźnie stają się walutą, a czat klasowych matek to arena pełna walki, złośliwości i oskarżeń. Szpilek wbijanych subtelnie, insynuacji i zarzutów rzucanych prosto z mostu. Prawdziwe gniazdo żmij.
Ależ porwał mnie klimat tej powieści! Napięcie rosło z każdą chwilą i z bijącym sercem wypatrywałam, co przyniesie kolejna strona. Jak to się skończy? Czy dojdzie do tragedii? A może przyjdzie otrzeźwienie i uda się jej uniknąć?
Jednak małe kłamstwa zaczynają żyć własnym życiem, a uprzedzenia i zazdrość rosną jak kula śniegowa. Autorka świetnie pokazuje, jak łatwo społeczność może zamienić się w tłum gotowy kogoś ukamienować. I jak cienka jest granica między obroną własnego dziecka a potrzebą udowodnienia swojej racji za wszelką cenę.
„Plac zabaw” to historia, która budzi emocje tym silniejsze, że może przydarzyć się każdemu z nas. Ot tak, od jednego słowa, jednego nieporozumienia, jednego zazdrosnego spojrzenia. Pokazuje, jak łatwo jest wyrządzić krzywdę i jak trudno odzyskać czyjeś zaufanie. To opowieść o tym, że toksyczne ambicje rodziców mogą być groźniejsze niż dziecięce konflikty i - co uzmysławia nam zakończenie - że czasem prawda jest dużo bardziej skomplikowana, niż chcielibyśmy wierzyć.
Przeczytajcie i osądźcie sami, czy porównanie klimatu tej powieści do gniazda żmij jest trafne. Moim zdaniem jest wręcz idealne, bo roi się w niej od syczących szeptów, ukrytych jadowitych spojrzeń i matczynej gotowości do ataku. I właśnie w tej zatrutej codzienności, w zwyczajnym życiu, w relacjach matek i dzieci, które w obliczu zagrożenia stają się bardziej drapieżne niż same potrafią sobie wyobrazić, tkwi największa siła tego thrillera. I przyznam szczerze, że ten klimat absolutnie mnie porwał, a książkę czytałam z wypiekami na twarzy!
September 27, 2024
A mother and child move to a rural home to start a new life. But will they be able to make their place amidst the tight-knit village community?
This book came as a total surprise to me. It is not a typical domestic thriller, but it carries a sense of menace. As it was, I found it impossible to put down. What if I missed something???
Suitable for lovers of domestic thrillers and cozy mysteries, The Playground talks about how subtly classist behaviour can cause major damage.
3.5 stars. Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC.
This book came as a total surprise to me. It is not a typical domestic thriller, but it carries a sense of menace. As it was, I found it impossible to put down. What if I missed something???
Suitable for lovers of domestic thrillers and cozy mysteries, The Playground talks about how subtly classist behaviour can cause major damage.
3.5 stars. Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC.
June 9, 2023
Really really enjoyed this book. Such an easy and fast paced read, full of drama and lots of interesting characters.
Nancy has just moved to the village with her ten year old daughter Lara, money is no object as they settle into their new mega mansion. But unbeknown to Nancy, she has fuelled the wrath of the queen bee Imogen, just by existing in her old life.
An incident between Lara and Imogen’s daughter Rosie sets the tone for the remainder and made my blood boil throughout, there’s nothing more I detest than a parent who thinks their child is a little darling who can never do anything wrong, getting away with their nasty behaviour every time and a school that doesn’t want to admit bullying exists.
This escalated even further with Imogen’s nasty sheep that followed her lead and let rumours run amok and get out of control. Things had to get worse before they could get better and lots of unexpected situations that I didn’t see coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan MacMillan for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Nancy has just moved to the village with her ten year old daughter Lara, money is no object as they settle into their new mega mansion. But unbeknown to Nancy, she has fuelled the wrath of the queen bee Imogen, just by existing in her old life.
An incident between Lara and Imogen’s daughter Rosie sets the tone for the remainder and made my blood boil throughout, there’s nothing more I detest than a parent who thinks their child is a little darling who can never do anything wrong, getting away with their nasty behaviour every time and a school that doesn’t want to admit bullying exists.
This escalated even further with Imogen’s nasty sheep that followed her lead and let rumours run amok and get out of control. Things had to get worse before they could get better and lots of unexpected situations that I didn’t see coming.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan MacMillan for the ARC in return for an honest review.
August 16, 2023
Fast-paced, twisty, and captivating!
The Playground is a brisk, suspenseful thriller that introduces us to Nancy, a young mother who, after losing her husband in a tragic accident, decides to move to the Derbyshire countryside in hopes of a fresh start. But when her ten-year-old daughter is accused of trying to drown her popular classmate and the bullying and toxicity seems to just keep escalating from there, it quickly becomes apparent that life is going to be anything other than safe and peaceful in this village where everyone knows everyone and loyalties are long set.
The prose is sharp and crisp. The characters are manipulative, vulnerable, and cunning. And the plot is a menacing tale full of danger, deception, adultery, jealousy, gossip, obsession, negligence, and small-town drama.
Overall, The Playground is a cleverly plotted, eerie, intricate page-turner by Frances that had just enough twists, turns, and surprises to keep me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
Thank you to Publishers Group Canada for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Playground is a brisk, suspenseful thriller that introduces us to Nancy, a young mother who, after losing her husband in a tragic accident, decides to move to the Derbyshire countryside in hopes of a fresh start. But when her ten-year-old daughter is accused of trying to drown her popular classmate and the bullying and toxicity seems to just keep escalating from there, it quickly becomes apparent that life is going to be anything other than safe and peaceful in this village where everyone knows everyone and loyalties are long set.
The prose is sharp and crisp. The characters are manipulative, vulnerable, and cunning. And the plot is a menacing tale full of danger, deception, adultery, jealousy, gossip, obsession, negligence, and small-town drama.
Overall, The Playground is a cleverly plotted, eerie, intricate page-turner by Frances that had just enough twists, turns, and surprises to keep me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
Thank you to Publishers Group Canada for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2024
I feel like I don’t even know what happened, the characters were all kind of lame, and it was a mad rush of randomness at the end including characters having arcs that didn’t even matter to the story in general.
August 25, 2025
Ocena: 4/5
Gatunek: lekki thriller obyczajowy
Motywy: przeprowadzka matki z córką, małomiasteczkowe sekrety, szkolne nękanie, konflikty między uczennicami
.
Jeśli sądzicie, że najwięcej dram toczy się w świecie polityki albo showbizu, to chyba nigdy nie zaglądaliście na szkolny plac zabaw. Michelle Frances w swojej powieści udowadnia, że za huśtawkami, zjeżdżalniami i karuzelami (!) kryje się prawdziwy front walki - zamiast żołnierzy mamy tu jednak rodziców i ich pociechy, a ich bronią są podszyte rywalizacją pasywno-agresywne pogaduszki i wredne zachowania.
Wspaniale się obserwuje, jak rodzicielskie ambicje, ukryte kompleksy i drobne złośliwości eskalują szybciej niż zdążysz mrugnąć. Bohaterowie są barwni, niektórzy na maksa irytujący, a fabuła momentami przypomina serial dramatyczno-komediowy. Napięcie rośnie, pojawiają się brudne sekrety, a Ty nie możesz się oderwać, bo wciąż czekasz, co jeszcze autorka wyciągnie z tego pozornie banalnego otoczenia.
Ton powieści jest lekki, z przymrużeniem oka, choć nie brakuje też momentów poważniejszych, skłaniających do refleksji nad małostkowością ludzi i ich talentem do kreowania problemów z odwłoka.
"Plac zabaw" to książka, którą czyta się błyskawicznie, z zainteresowaniem i lekkim uśmiechem, bo podczas lektury czasami myślisz: „o matko, to brzmi jak nasza klasowa grupa na Whatsappie"!). Jeśli macie ochotę na lekką powieść, która łączy dramat z thrillerem i potrafi zaskoczyć w ostatnim rozdziale, to trafiliście idealnie.
Gatunek: lekki thriller obyczajowy
Motywy: przeprowadzka matki z córką, małomiasteczkowe sekrety, szkolne nękanie, konflikty między uczennicami
.
Jeśli sądzicie, że najwięcej dram toczy się w świecie polityki albo showbizu, to chyba nigdy nie zaglądaliście na szkolny plac zabaw. Michelle Frances w swojej powieści udowadnia, że za huśtawkami, zjeżdżalniami i karuzelami (!) kryje się prawdziwy front walki - zamiast żołnierzy mamy tu jednak rodziców i ich pociechy, a ich bronią są podszyte rywalizacją pasywno-agresywne pogaduszki i wredne zachowania.
Wspaniale się obserwuje, jak rodzicielskie ambicje, ukryte kompleksy i drobne złośliwości eskalują szybciej niż zdążysz mrugnąć. Bohaterowie są barwni, niektórzy na maksa irytujący, a fabuła momentami przypomina serial dramatyczno-komediowy. Napięcie rośnie, pojawiają się brudne sekrety, a Ty nie możesz się oderwać, bo wciąż czekasz, co jeszcze autorka wyciągnie z tego pozornie banalnego otoczenia.
Ton powieści jest lekki, z przymrużeniem oka, choć nie brakuje też momentów poważniejszych, skłaniających do refleksji nad małostkowością ludzi i ich talentem do kreowania problemów z odwłoka.
"Plac zabaw" to książka, którą czyta się błyskawicznie, z zainteresowaniem i lekkim uśmiechem, bo podczas lektury czasami myślisz: „o matko, to brzmi jak nasza klasowa grupa na Whatsappie"!). Jeśli macie ochotę na lekką powieść, która łączy dramat z thrillerem i potrafi zaskoczyć w ostatnim rozdziale, to trafiliście idealnie.
June 8, 2023
Wow what an incredible read 'The Playground' is. The premise is so simple and it works extremely well. Frances sets this in a small village where everyone knows everyone and by default, everyone's business. Throw in the perfect combination of characters and you have one exhilarating read. I loved getting to know Nancy and Lara and I was rooting for them the whole way through. I also liked getting to know all the other characters and learning about their secrets and darkness. This village has a lot of secrets at its heart and it was fun to discover all of them. There was also a lot of danger within this book which made the read thrilling and gripping. I was rooted to this book and desperate to get to the end. My only negative is the ending is tied up very quickly - almost as an afterthought. I think this could have been even better if more time was dedicated to tying everything up. Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for an advance copy.
June 10, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book.
From the half way point, it picked up pace and I couldn't put this book down! The story focuses on Nancy and Lara who move to a new area after the death of Nancy's husband Sam. There is so much drama in this new neighbourhood!
I really enjoyed how the story came together. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
From the half way point, it picked up pace and I couldn't put this book down! The story focuses on Nancy and Lara who move to a new area after the death of Nancy's husband Sam. There is so much drama in this new neighbourhood!
I really enjoyed how the story came together. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 15, 2025
Medvrstniško nasilje obstaja od nekdaj, le načini postajajo vse bolj prefinjeni. Vesela sem, da so tudi moji otroci odrasli, ker mi je bilo na trenutke kar težko brati to knjigo. Kajti Lara je presneto deležna takšnega nasilja. Lara in njena mama se v malo mestece preselita, ko ostaneta sami. Nancy kupi največjo hišo, pa tudi precej je bogata, kar pa seveda vsem ni všeč, tako obe postaneta žrtvi spletk. Pestro dogajanje malega mesta, zelo dobro izvedeno in napisano, predvsem so nazorni opisi nasilja. Konec je presenečenje, a prav zaradi njega se znova zamisliš. Knjiga z drugačno tematika. Napeta, na trenutke precej bolj grozljiva kot kakšna nazorna kriminalka.
November 2, 2023
female bullies: adult & children
September 25, 2025
Dziś przychodzę do Was z książką, przy której miło spędziłam czas. Jak wiecie, uwielbiam thrillery, te wszystkie intrygi, tajemnice i szalone plot twisty. A w „Placu zabaw” autorstwa Michelle Frances ich nie brakuje!
Nancy, samotna matka, wraz ze swoją dziesięcioletnią córką Larą przeprowadza się do małej, malowniczej wioski w Anglii, z nadzieją na spokojne życie z dala od miejskiego zgiełku.
Wkrótce jednak przekonuje się, że idyllę zakłóca konflikt szkolny. Lara popada w spór z rówieśniczkami, a matki tych dzieci zaczynają ją izolować. Kiedy Lara zostaje oskarżona o skrzywdzenie innej dziewczynki, Nancy desperacko próbuje chronić córkę i oczyścić jej dobre imię - co prowadzi do eskalacji intryg i społecznej manipulacji.
Autorka dobrze pokazuje, jak łatwo drobne nieporozumienie w środowisku szkolnym może wymknąć się spod kontroli, kiedy w grę wchodzą emocje, presja grupowa i walka o reputację. Plotki, milczenie, wykluczenie to elementy, które Frances wykorzystuje skutecznie, by stopniowo zaogniać konflikt.
Jeden z najsilniejszych elementów książki to przedstawienie tego, co matka jest w stanie zrobić, by chronić dziecko. Frances zadaje pytania o to, gdzie leży granica między troską a obsesją. To sprawia, że książka angażuje emocjonalnie.
Konflikt szkolny, izolacja dziecka, presja społeczna, oczekiwania wobec rodziców - to tematy, które mogą dotyczyć wielu osób, w różnych krajach. Książka nie opiera się wyłącznie na sensacyjności, ale na realiach codziennego życia i relacjach, co czyni ją bardziej przejmującą.
„Plac zabaw” to bardzo udana lektura - emocjonująca, skłaniająca do refleksji nad tym, jak nasze oceny i plotki wpływają na relacje, jak łatwo można narazić drugą stronę, gdy działamy z lęku lub z przekonania, że się dobrze postępuje. Nie jest to mistrzostwo literackie, ale za to spełnia rolę rozrywki z pazurem i porusza ważne tematy.
Polecam!
Nancy, samotna matka, wraz ze swoją dziesięcioletnią córką Larą przeprowadza się do małej, malowniczej wioski w Anglii, z nadzieją na spokojne życie z dala od miejskiego zgiełku.
Wkrótce jednak przekonuje się, że idyllę zakłóca konflikt szkolny. Lara popada w spór z rówieśniczkami, a matki tych dzieci zaczynają ją izolować. Kiedy Lara zostaje oskarżona o skrzywdzenie innej dziewczynki, Nancy desperacko próbuje chronić córkę i oczyścić jej dobre imię - co prowadzi do eskalacji intryg i społecznej manipulacji.
Autorka dobrze pokazuje, jak łatwo drobne nieporozumienie w środowisku szkolnym może wymknąć się spod kontroli, kiedy w grę wchodzą emocje, presja grupowa i walka o reputację. Plotki, milczenie, wykluczenie to elementy, które Frances wykorzystuje skutecznie, by stopniowo zaogniać konflikt.
Jeden z najsilniejszych elementów książki to przedstawienie tego, co matka jest w stanie zrobić, by chronić dziecko. Frances zadaje pytania o to, gdzie leży granica między troską a obsesją. To sprawia, że książka angażuje emocjonalnie.
Konflikt szkolny, izolacja dziecka, presja społeczna, oczekiwania wobec rodziców - to tematy, które mogą dotyczyć wielu osób, w różnych krajach. Książka nie opiera się wyłącznie na sensacyjności, ale na realiach codziennego życia i relacjach, co czyni ją bardziej przejmującą.
„Plac zabaw” to bardzo udana lektura - emocjonująca, skłaniająca do refleksji nad tym, jak nasze oceny i plotki wpływają na relacje, jak łatwo można narazić drugą stronę, gdy działamy z lęku lub z przekonania, że się dobrze postępuje. Nie jest to mistrzostwo literackie, ale za to spełnia rolę rozrywki z pazurem i porusza ważne tematy.
Polecam!
September 2, 2024
Nancy und ihre zehnjährige Tochter Lara ziehen in das ruhige Dorf Ripton, um ihrem alten Leben zu entfliehen. Das Dorf scheint idyllisch, entpuppt sich jedoch als komplex und problematisch, insbesondere nach einem Vorfall auf dem Schulhof, bei dem Lara beschuldigt wird, ein anderes Mädchen verletzt zu haben. Nancy versucht verzweifelt, den Ruf ihrer Tochter zu verteidigen, während sie in die ungeschriebenen Regeln und Konflikte der Elternschaft in der Vorstadtgemeinschaft eintaucht.
Zu Beginn der Geschichte war ich mir noch unsicher, in welche Richtung sie sich entwickeln würde. Im Verlauf wird jedoch schnell klar, dass Mobbing und Schikane in der Schule das zentrale Thema bilden, und das wird wirklich eindrucksvoll dargestellt. Interessanterweise sind nicht nur die Schüler betroffen, sondern auch deren Mütter, die die Situation zusätzlich anheizen. Der Gruppenchat der Mütter ist ein perfektes Beispiel dafür, wie sich solche Dynamiken entfalten können. Statt die Lage sachlich zu betrachten und zu versuchen, sie zu entschärfen, steigen sie immer weiter hinein und lassen Gerüchte, wenn nicht sogar Lügen, zur Wahrheit werden. Anstatt nach einem Gespräch oder einer Lösung für das Problem zu suchen, wird alles nur schlimmer – ein besonders erschreckender Aspekt, da es hier um Nancys kleine Tochter geht.
Natürlich gibt es in dieser Vorstadtgeschichte auch einige Geheimnisse – wie Ehebruch oder Diebstahl –, die typisch für so ein Setting in einem Roman sind.
Trotz des eher ruhigen Erzählstils und ein paar Wiederholungen, die den Eindruck erweckten, als würde man sich im Kreis drehen, ist die Geschichte insgesamt gelungen und behandelt ein sehr wichtiges Thema.
Alles in allem ist es eine lesenswerte Geschichte, die ich auf jeden Fall weiterempfehlen kann.
Zu Beginn der Geschichte war ich mir noch unsicher, in welche Richtung sie sich entwickeln würde. Im Verlauf wird jedoch schnell klar, dass Mobbing und Schikane in der Schule das zentrale Thema bilden, und das wird wirklich eindrucksvoll dargestellt. Interessanterweise sind nicht nur die Schüler betroffen, sondern auch deren Mütter, die die Situation zusätzlich anheizen. Der Gruppenchat der Mütter ist ein perfektes Beispiel dafür, wie sich solche Dynamiken entfalten können. Statt die Lage sachlich zu betrachten und zu versuchen, sie zu entschärfen, steigen sie immer weiter hinein und lassen Gerüchte, wenn nicht sogar Lügen, zur Wahrheit werden. Anstatt nach einem Gespräch oder einer Lösung für das Problem zu suchen, wird alles nur schlimmer – ein besonders erschreckender Aspekt, da es hier um Nancys kleine Tochter geht.
Natürlich gibt es in dieser Vorstadtgeschichte auch einige Geheimnisse – wie Ehebruch oder Diebstahl –, die typisch für so ein Setting in einem Roman sind.
Trotz des eher ruhigen Erzählstils und ein paar Wiederholungen, die den Eindruck erweckten, als würde man sich im Kreis drehen, ist die Geschichte insgesamt gelungen und behandelt ein sehr wichtiges Thema.
Alles in allem ist es eine lesenswerte Geschichte, die ich auf jeden Fall weiterempfehlen kann.
May 31, 2023
When Nancy moves from London to the picturesque Derbyshire village of Ripton with her ten year old daughter Lara she is hoping to start afresh, to escape the trauma of the last year, but moving into the spectacular Willow Barn has ruffled some feathers with the mums at the school gates and things go from bad to worse when Lara is accused of hurting one of their children...
The Playground covers topics such as bullying, playground mentality and the pitfalls of life in a small village where your business is never just your own, as a parent I've witnessed the bullying aspect myself as my son went through it at primary school, but this story takes the toxicity of the subject to a whole new level as it doesn't just stay within the boundaries of the playground and the reasons for this become clear as the story progresses. This is a fast paced, easy read with short chapters and some very damning conversations via WhatsApp and some very unsavoury characters, many of them with troubles of their own, I raced through it having total empathy for Nancy and Lara, although there were times when Nancy really didn't do herself, or her daughter, any favours with one family in particular. It's a great read, with an unexpected ending, which I highly recommend.
I'd like to thank Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for inviting me to read this book, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
The Playground covers topics such as bullying, playground mentality and the pitfalls of life in a small village where your business is never just your own, as a parent I've witnessed the bullying aspect myself as my son went through it at primary school, but this story takes the toxicity of the subject to a whole new level as it doesn't just stay within the boundaries of the playground and the reasons for this become clear as the story progresses. This is a fast paced, easy read with short chapters and some very damning conversations via WhatsApp and some very unsavoury characters, many of them with troubles of their own, I raced through it having total empathy for Nancy and Lara, although there were times when Nancy really didn't do herself, or her daughter, any favours with one family in particular. It's a great read, with an unexpected ending, which I highly recommend.
I'd like to thank Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for inviting me to read this book, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
June 4, 2025
This was such a riveting read, I read half of it in one sitting. If not for the fact I need my sleep, I probably would've finished last night.
Nancy and her daughter, Lara move to the small, affluent village of Ripton hoping for a new start. When Lara is accused of harming one of the girls in her class, she and her mother realise how deep playground politics run.
At first, it was hard not to make comparisons with Liane Moriarty's Big Little Lies. The pushy, helicopter mothers, their long-suffering husbands, the secrets, the lies etc. There is so much drama constantly unraveling in this novel, it was genuinely difficult to put it down and go to sleep.
What it did better than Big Little Lies though was the claustrophobic setting; in a little village, everyone knows everyone else's business. There were also a couple of interesting subplots. What really got me though, was the ending. Right to the last page, I couldn't see how it would all tie together, and then it did.
Thrillers are a difficult genre to get right; they're very hit or miss, perhaps more than any other genre. This one got most things absolutely right.
Nancy and her daughter, Lara move to the small, affluent village of Ripton hoping for a new start. When Lara is accused of harming one of the girls in her class, she and her mother realise how deep playground politics run.
At first, it was hard not to make comparisons with Liane Moriarty's Big Little Lies. The pushy, helicopter mothers, their long-suffering husbands, the secrets, the lies etc. There is so much drama constantly unraveling in this novel, it was genuinely difficult to put it down and go to sleep.
What it did better than Big Little Lies though was the claustrophobic setting; in a little village, everyone knows everyone else's business. There were also a couple of interesting subplots. What really got me though, was the ending. Right to the last page, I couldn't see how it would all tie together, and then it did.
Thrillers are a difficult genre to get right; they're very hit or miss, perhaps more than any other genre. This one got most things absolutely right.
March 1, 2023
Nancy and her Daughter Lara have left the city behind to move to the countryside and life a life of quiet, quaint peace. She's looking forward to starting over, creating a happy life in this little community - but instead she finds herself on the outside of the cliques and circles.
Especially when Lara is accused of hurting the child of the supposed Queen Bee of the village, and a witch hunt starts against them, These perfect families have shown they'll do anything to ensure their children come out on top - but now they'll see how far Nancy will go to make sure nobody ever hurts her daughter again …
"Welcome to Ripton. Once you're here, you'll never leave."
Playground politics turn deadly in this twisty thriller that holds a mirror up to the reader to ask just how far they'd go to protect the ones they love.
Immediately, Frances sets the stage with scenes of domestic bliss. Nancy introduces us to Willow Barn, her new home - and despite the initial appearance of privilege and perfect, it soon becomes clear that before this fresh start was a lot of pain and struggle for them both.
The story moves quickly, and after the scene is set we move swiftly on to show us the darker side of this beautiful village; the harsh cliques that turn on them instantly, the lies and betrayals that are happening behind closed doors. We move between Nancys perspective and the other residents in the village, seeing into their personal lives and their own dark secrets - letting us in on private talks and text chains to see what's really being said behind peoples backs. The village and it's residents felt unwelcoming, almost cult-like in their standards and unwritten social rules - in an only slightly darker parallel to the very real cut-throat areas of the world where people resort to all kinds of dirty tactics to ensure their kids get into the best schools, they have the best house, and their family remains powerful and privileged.
The intensity stayed at a steady simmer for a while, just waiting for something to boil over and change from petty playground squabbles to something much scarier; for a lot of this story, the story was subtle and quiet, whispers and sneaking around in the dark instead of anything explosive or sudden - but this kept me hooked, reading into every detail, every rivalry and relationship. It's clear everyone in this town had a secret that could destroy their community if it comes out - leaving the reader to wonder who the real bad guys are, who are the victims - or is nothing that simple?
I adore Frances and for most of this book, I was totally gripped - but for me, the several bouts of info-dumping and the finale weren't for me. This book goes from 100 - 1 really quickly, picking up the pace to a fever pitch before almost explaining away the end instead of letting it play out. For me, this left some of the most interest and disturbing twists a little flat and did leave me a little disappointed at the very end - but the story itself is a brilliantly devilish and dark story that is well worth a read.
A spectacularly sharp, suspenseful and sinister addition to Frances already impressive back catalogue.
Especially when Lara is accused of hurting the child of the supposed Queen Bee of the village, and a witch hunt starts against them, These perfect families have shown they'll do anything to ensure their children come out on top - but now they'll see how far Nancy will go to make sure nobody ever hurts her daughter again …
"Welcome to Ripton. Once you're here, you'll never leave."
Playground politics turn deadly in this twisty thriller that holds a mirror up to the reader to ask just how far they'd go to protect the ones they love.
Immediately, Frances sets the stage with scenes of domestic bliss. Nancy introduces us to Willow Barn, her new home - and despite the initial appearance of privilege and perfect, it soon becomes clear that before this fresh start was a lot of pain and struggle for them both.
The story moves quickly, and after the scene is set we move swiftly on to show us the darker side of this beautiful village; the harsh cliques that turn on them instantly, the lies and betrayals that are happening behind closed doors. We move between Nancys perspective and the other residents in the village, seeing into their personal lives and their own dark secrets - letting us in on private talks and text chains to see what's really being said behind peoples backs. The village and it's residents felt unwelcoming, almost cult-like in their standards and unwritten social rules - in an only slightly darker parallel to the very real cut-throat areas of the world where people resort to all kinds of dirty tactics to ensure their kids get into the best schools, they have the best house, and their family remains powerful and privileged.
The intensity stayed at a steady simmer for a while, just waiting for something to boil over and change from petty playground squabbles to something much scarier; for a lot of this story, the story was subtle and quiet, whispers and sneaking around in the dark instead of anything explosive or sudden - but this kept me hooked, reading into every detail, every rivalry and relationship. It's clear everyone in this town had a secret that could destroy their community if it comes out - leaving the reader to wonder who the real bad guys are, who are the victims - or is nothing that simple?
I adore Frances and for most of this book, I was totally gripped - but for me, the several bouts of info-dumping and the finale weren't for me. This book goes from 100 - 1 really quickly, picking up the pace to a fever pitch before almost explaining away the end instead of letting it play out. For me, this left some of the most interest and disturbing twists a little flat and did leave me a little disappointed at the very end - but the story itself is a brilliantly devilish and dark story that is well worth a read.
A spectacularly sharp, suspenseful and sinister addition to Frances already impressive back catalogue.
July 31, 2023
Oooh this was a tricky one! If you’re looking for a thriller that will make you slightly uneasy then this one might be for you. The story focuses on two parents and their respective daughters - Nancy and Imogen. Nancy has moved to Imogen’s village, right into her old home. Their little girls are in the same class at school and thing start to go a little awry when the Nancy’s daughter is blamed for an accident involving Imogen’s daughter.
The story focuses on the tense relationship between Nancy and Imogen with little tidbits of village life and other characters thrown in. These school mums are bitchy AF, like no holding back, and I honestly wanted to punch some of them. They are nothing but bullies at some points throughout the book.
The story quickly draws to a conclusion with one final twist that still has me thinking about the book.
The story focuses on the tense relationship between Nancy and Imogen with little tidbits of village life and other characters thrown in. These school mums are bitchy AF, like no holding back, and I honestly wanted to punch some of them. They are nothing but bullies at some points throughout the book.
The story quickly draws to a conclusion with one final twist that still has me thinking about the book.
May 18, 2023
An idyllic life in the country is the fresh start Nancy and her 10 year old daughter Lara need after a traumatic year. But they didn't count on the toxicity of the school playground both from the mums and the children. And my goodness there was lots of nastiness and bitterness with WhatsApp groups active daily. And when things happen in the village obviously Nancy is the prime suspect because of course nothing happened before she arrived.
I loved this book, it was such a quick read as I was so invested in the story that I couldn't put it down. I've never encountered playground politics and based on this novel I'm so pleased I haven't. Definitely one to read and recommend to others
I loved this book, it was such a quick read as I was so invested in the story that I couldn't put it down. I've never encountered playground politics and based on this novel I'm so pleased I haven't. Definitely one to read and recommend to others
May 4, 2023
Nancy buys The Willow Barn in the village of Ripton. Moving in with her eleven year old daughter Lara after her husband is killed in an accident.
The Playground centres around a bunch of school mums who are absolutely awful.
Something happens at Rosie's birthday party just a few days after Lara starts at the new school and from then on the nastiness escalates.
The WhatsApp group messages are horrible. Only Hannah sticks up for Nancy.
There is plenty going on with some of the mum's, and none of them are likeable.
This was a real page turner, and the chapters are very short, which keeps the momentum going.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for the ARC in return for an honest review.
The Playground centres around a bunch of school mums who are absolutely awful.
Something happens at Rosie's birthday party just a few days after Lara starts at the new school and from then on the nastiness escalates.
The WhatsApp group messages are horrible. Only Hannah sticks up for Nancy.
There is plenty going on with some of the mum's, and none of them are likeable.
This was a real page turner, and the chapters are very short, which keeps the momentum going.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for the ARC in return for an honest review.
February 17, 2024
An audiobook which started well, many of the central characters were self obsessed and far too keen to gossip viscously about the new owner of a beautiful house once belonging to one of this group. The house and business had been repossessed during COVID so was sold by the finance company to recover costs. The new owner and daughter became the focus of their vitriol. There were several questionable references to an accident and Druid festivals. Ultimately it seemed as if the author got bored and decided to tie up all ends rapidly without thinking. However that said it was entertaining.
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