The Agency follows an American orphan who gets accepted to a British Nanny academy. They train in child development and things that so they can be Nannies for elite families. However, things are not totally as they seem.

This book was just ok for me. I d the characters and the premise was interesting. However, I feel the pacing was off. The first half was so boring and nothing really happened until the later half. And at that point i was just tired of it.

I think people who spy stories will enjoy this one. However, it wasn’t for me. Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review! 4 s Lesley Bourg146 115

I love it when I find a new series of books that gets me hooked - and The Norwood Nanny Chronicles have done just that. In The Agency we meet some complex characters who are easy to get to know and love (or loathe!). Bree has had a tough life, but never feels sorry for herself - even when in the most challenging of situations in her life as a (kind of!) Nanny.
Someone has already said it, but it really is a kind of Mary Poppins meets 007. I think it would make a great movie - it’s a plot twist that hasn’t been overdone in the past.
Can’t wait for book 2 …..giveaway-wins3 s Danielle UrbanAuthor 12 books154

The Agency by Monica McGurk is an interesting new series. It is full of intrigue, mystery, danger, and drama. A high-end school that is difficult to get into and yet our protagonist does. She earns her certificate as a nanny. Missons full of danger and secrets are undertaken. I loved the atmosphere of suspense and action on every page. The characters made this book pop to life. It was engaging from the start. The novel piqued my interest and kept me glued in until the last page. Monica McGurk is now added to my must watch out list for new writers whose books I want to read. I have not read her previous novels in other series, but I now want to read them all.

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review. 1 Jude WalkoAuthor 2 books11

This book is a play in 4 acts.

ACT I - Harry Potter. We're all off to a whimsical school in England, put in our respective houses and competing with each other to be Head Student.

ACT II - Spy Kids. Things are not as they seem on the surface level. Let's go on an adventure of hidden clues and talents.

ACT III - James Bond. This is an international spy ring with operatives and hidden secrets everywhere.

ACT IV - Bourne Identity. No one is who they seem. Watch your six.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.Show full review2 s Jessica1,454

3.5 stars Thanks to the publisher for the ARC! I very much appreciated this surprise book in the mail!
This one is hard for me to rate because as there were things I d and didn’t , so I cant make a solid decision if teens would be into it or not. Here’s my feelings on it: 1.it’s a fresh story idea. That seems rare these days where a lot of stories are the same basic formula recycled with new characters. This one was neat. There’s a school for nannies that turns out to be more than any of the students bargained for. I thought the mystery aspect was good and woven in well, too. (It just felt at times there was too much in here-this character and that mystery and this surprise, etc. I also wondered if the decision the students all have to face was something I could see happening there for year and years with so much success and no one spilling the beans.) 2. The main character is likable. She doesn’t have annoying whiny ways or obnoxious flaws or issues that keep coming up. Despite some sadness at being an orphan and never knowing her parents or much about them, she has a lot of positive things to say about the home where she grew up and the caregivers she grew close to. (Some of the characters I didn’t from the get-go, which I think was done on purpose. The two that are in a relationship seem odd together, and the progression of the relationship doesn’t always seem realistic or even something I cared much about or believed was real, especially towards the end of the book .) 3. There was some good action. Bree’s caring instincts kick in nicely as she handles different situations with and without kids. It’s a little gruesome in some spots with the violence, but it’s ok for teens compared to other things out there. (I didn’t feel some of the intense moments were realistic. I felt Bree being assigned that specific first internship after a year of training and dealing with all the things she dealt with was hard to really get into because what are the odds that would really happen? I feel she would need more schooling and training before that assignment).
I said, overall, it was a decent read. I found myself stepping away from it at times because so much of it felt it could be shortened up, or I had to step away and come back to it bc I was at an eye rolling moment in the text and needed a break. It wasn’t a bad book; it just wasn’t my favorite. I don’t see myself reading book 2, but I have a few students (not a ton but some) in mind who might this series, and I can recommend it to them when it comes out.1 John Purvis1,246 21

Author Monica McGurk https://monicamcgurk.com published the novel The Agency earlier this month. This is the first book in her Norwood Nanny Chronicles series and her fourth novel.

I received an ARC of this book through https://www.netgalley.com in return for a fair and honest review. I categorize this book as ‘R’ because it contains scenes of violence. The primary character is Briana B. ‘Bree’ Parrish.

Parrish has just arrived at Norwood College in the UK. She is an orphan from Alabama and is there on a full scholarship. Norwood is an elite school in the UK for young women to train as nannies. She is the first and only American to be admitted to Norwood. She and her assigned study group struggle to successfully complete their first half-year and be included in the exclusive certificate program.

They all knew that Norwood trained world-class nannies. To their surprise, they discover that it also trains spies for MI6. As they undertake their first training mission, it becomes apparent they may be a traitor in their midst. Parris is a suspect in the failure of their mission. She can trust no one and wants to uncover the traitor to clear her name. She also wants to find out more about her own past. Both of those goals lead to her being in life-threatening situations.

I enjoyed the 9.5 hours I spent reading this 362-page young adult thriller. I was surprised that the book was labeled a Middle-Grade Mystery / Thriller. It contains violence and drinking, as well as implied mature situations. The plot was not very complex, but it is a young adult novel. I did enjoy it and will be looking for sequels to the series. I the chosen cover art. I give this novel a rating of 4 out of 5.

You can access more of my book on my Blog ( https://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/). Rekha Rao965 47

In Monica McGurk's The Agency, readers are treated to a captivating blend of spy-thriller excitement intertwined with the world of sensible nannies, akin to a fusion of James Bond and Mary Poppins. The narrative unfolds with the Norwood training program taking center stage in the initial half of the book, offering a detailed glimpse into its curriculum and the myriad challenges faced by protagonist Bree and her teammates.

The narrative is divided into two halves: the first dedicated to world-building and Nanny training, and the second brimming with pulsating action. As Bree and her group secure their places in the certification program, their inaugural mission triggers a cascade of unexpected events, leading to a thriller adventure that ends with a cliff-hanger - which will be explored further in the next installment.

The series' premise, revolving around a nanny in training whose education extends far beyond mere childcare, is a refreshing and innovative concept. I found the initial half of the book slightly drawn out, the meticulously crafted scenes are nonetheless captivating, and had me hooked until the very end. The latter half of the narrative transforms into a gripping spy-action thriller and kept on the edge of my seat.

The Agency by Monica McGurk is an engrossing and entertaining thriller and a smashing start to the series. Highly recommended for those seeking a riveting mystery with unforgettable characters.books-released-in-2024 netgalley-2024 Shakera717 12

“The Agency” has to be one of the most interesting books I’ve read this year… and it’s only March. Initially, I wasn’t sure what to think. I was a little confused in the beginning of the book about what was happening. However, Monica McGurk’s writing was fantastic and I didn’t want to put the book down.

This misfit group of potential nannies consists of Bree, the first American nanny this British academy has admitted, Dasheill, the academy’s first manny, Ruby and Susie, a socialite on the edge of ruin. These four characters really bring the story to life, and each character brings something different to the story.

I loved everything about Ruby, and I enjoyed how close Ruby and Bree had become. I also enjoyed the relationship between Bree and Dash. I thought it was rather obvious who the villain was; however, it didn’t detract from the book at all. If anything, it made me want to read more to see how it would be revealed.

The pace of the book started off a little slow; however, for me, it quickly picked up when the true meaning behind the academy was revealed. The book does leave some questions unanswered. As it is a series, the unanswered questions should be answered potentially in the next book. I look forward to getting those answers because this one was just too good to put down. Susan Beamon966 16

This is the first book in this series. You know that because it leaves some things open, while closing some out. Now how can a story about a nanny training school, even with our earnest trainee, Bree, be a series? Is it a comedy? It is only when the children don't act as expected but do act children. Is it a romance? While there are teasers, Bree doesn't have time if she's going to graduate. Is it a cozy mystery? No, there is nothing cozy about this series.
You won't believe me when I tell you about the thrilling and dangerous things Bree learns to be successful at. Yes, she does learn to be a nanny, but that is only the beginning of the job. She is going to out Mary Poppins Mary Poppins herself.
Bree studied hard and was rewarded with the position, for the summer between semesters, of nanny with an important diplomatic family. It was a sign that the Norwood Nanny Agency thought she could do the job. She mostly did, only at the last minute, just when rescue was imminent, she lost the children. They were separated. Someone had helped the enemy. Someone in the agency was a traitor. Who was it? Who wanted Bree to fail? Could she find that person? Would she find the children? Who, even, is Bree? You really need to read this book to find out. I think you will enjoy the story. I sis.
I received the copy of the book I read for this review from the publisher. geraly143 7

Thank you to the author and Green Leaf Book Group for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I have to admit my expectations were low because I don't often read this genre of books. It felt slow at first to me and I was having trouble warming up to these characters. But as soon as "the twist" occurred, I was feeling a little protective of the little group of misfit nannies... It really felt a rollercoaster after that... The pacing did ramp up and feel a spy movie. I did enjoy learning more about the characters and their motivations and what brought them to this crossroads together. - I even started listening to some Muscle Shoals music. This was a quick and entertaining read. Would happily recommend for a little weekend read with tea of course! Judy1,151 11

The Agency is very odd and unique, and I quite enjoyed reading it. I thought the first part as they started in nanny school was interesting, just because I knew nothing about training nannies. I must admit I just could not fathom how Suzie wasn't just kicked out, nor could I figure out the reason for some of the activities the would be nannies (and one manny) had to participate in. That later became quite clear and made sense, at least in the context of the book. I am curious to see how the author will continue this series, so I will look for the sequel.

I received a copy from the publisher. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own. Becky171

An orphan from Alabama with a murky past gets enrolled in an elite school for nannies in the UK, though she never applied. When she arrives, she meets an interesting cast of characters while undergoing strict and rigorous training in hopes of landing a spot in their covered certificate program.

I can't say too much more without revealing any spoilers, but I enjoyed the twists and turns and can't wait for book 2 to come out! For me it did get a little rushed/confusing as the plot came together toward the end, but overall a good read.

Special thanks to River Grove Books! I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway but this does not affect my review and all opinions are mine. Erin161 3

Thank you to Greenleaf for the opportunity to read the first book in The Norwood Nanny Chronicles by Monica McGurk via a Goodreads giveaway. What a fun book! The premise of the nanny school is quirky, as are the fun characters who find themselves trapped in all kinds of crazy and dangerous situations. A few things were left unresolved regarding main character Bree's charges, so I'm curious to see how McGurk will tie up the storyline; I'm looking forward to reading more of this series! This book gave me the same wonderful feeling I had when reading A Series of Unfortunate Events -- quirky, fun, a bit dark here and there, witty...ad-mystery giveaways Sanjib Dash BookishDramas477 5

My thanks to the team of NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the free review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

All views expressed in this review are my own and based on my reading of this book.

Monica's book of intrigue about an elite school for nannies for the rich and famous seemed commonplace and cheesy but to her credit she has developed a wide array of characters and keeping it packed with action, suspense and engagement at every turn. The start and initial pace is slow as the world is set but had enough to keep me reading till the end.
The story was great and I'm looking forward to the sequel.
2022-netgalley young-adult Nicole Hand38

I LOVED this book— the storyline and the writing were amazing, and I found myself not being able to put the book down. Bree, the protagonist, attends Norwood College, an institution famous for training nannies, except there’s more to the college than meets the eye. Without giving anything away, this book contains a major twist in the storyline as the reader begins to learn more about Norwood College and its secrets. I loved the characters in the book and the masterful way in which they were described. Would definitely recommend this to others, and I can’t wait for the second book to come out!! Cynthia Moore395 8

This sounded a great premise in the description. For me it didn't quite work. I couldn't figure out if it was supposed to be a mystery or a thriller or a fantasy book. It seemed to be trying to be all of those but got booged down in too much minute detail at the beginning of the classes that it was slow going. By the time we got to the middle and the big twist, it seemed forced and absurb. I really did not any of the characters in the book and could not believe any of them having the motivation to be in that situation. Icywolf28 1 follower

This was a very mixed message book. For much of the book we are immersed in classes designed for the ultimate nanny, but then we are catapulted into being nanny/spies.

The characterization and development was well done. Each individual section - nanny training, spy training, field work was interesting and the nanny section was very original, but the transitions were abrupt. It was more a collection of three novellas patched together.

I also had some trouble with that semi-cliff-hanger ending (would that be a hill hanger? Or a roof hanger?) waiting on the next book.This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.Show full review Christie Segura1 review1 follower

Books tend to put me asleep but The Agency: The Norwood Nanny Chronicles, Book One is a page turner that kept me up well past my bedtime! The novel is about the adventures of a young American women (Bree) that is studying at prestigious English training school (Norwood College) for nannies or so she thought ... I loved the suspense of the story and how it kept me guessing along with the strong but relatable female characters. Fans of young adult mystery/suspense novels are sure to love this book! I know I am already looking forward to Book Two! Read Ng1,240 23

This was a GoodReads giveaway win of a Kindle ebook.

The start of a series. Very much the Harry Potter type of setting with our hero trusted into an academy setting and slowly discovering her future.

Ends a series. Not a cliff hanger, but many unaddressed questions. I thought it had a rather lengthy slow start, but it was still interesting. I did not really care for the reveal of the enemy in this first book. It just seemed too sudden.

It is set in the present day. Current events are credible.

This was a GoodReads.fiction first-reads thriller Angi225

This was a “cute” young adult novel. (I would let my middle schooler read it because there was nothing horribly graphic or taboo in it). I give it a 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. It was a unique storyline with interesting characters. The elite nanny school was creative. I read a lot of books from the UK and really enjoyed that the main character was a US citizen in the UK. I that it is a series.

Thank you to the author, publisher for sending me this complimentary ebook through Goodreads Giveaways. ?? This is my honest review. The opinions are mine alone and not biased in any way.goodreads-giveaways Toni516 14

Thank you to Goodreads for the free giveaway.

This is the type of novel that I would normally gravitate to. Thriller and suspense.

Bree, our main character is an orphan who is attending a nanny school in England called Norwood, to become a nanny for families. If she gets into the certificate program, where only the cream of the crop do, she will be placed with the most prominent families in the world.

As she is chosen for this program, she discovers that there is more to it than that. Kayla Tornello1,482 13

This book has lots of action, although everything is completely implausible. I d the premise of the book and the setting at the nanny school. I'm just not sure how to describe the tone of the book. It's a quick, easy read, although the subject matter isn't all light and fluffy. I also didn't how the ending was so abrupt, although I understand it's an attempt to assure you read the next book.

I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway. Yay!adult giveaways Mika10 1 follower

This book left me frustrated. I found it so compelling in the first half, in which I became invested in the characters and their stories but was left for dead with so many cliffhangers. I understand wanting to leave room for another book but this felt so unfinished. In the thick of the action and it just... ends. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for leaving the reader wanting more but I really wish I had gotten more answers. Rachael37 9

(I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.)

I'll be honest, this is probably not a book that I would have picked up if it hadn't been a giveaway. After reading it, I'll say that the premise is interesting and the book itself is pretty well-written, although I'm not sure I was convinced by the twist. It is also definitely the first book in a series so don't expect closure.

Overall, four stars for being a relatively entertaining read. I probably won't seek out the sequels, but if I come across them in the library, I would probably check them out. Kelley Simon67

Who doesn’t love a book that seemingly innocuous on the surface and then just below has mystery, harrowing danger and intrigue. I enjoyed the backgrounds of the characters and the little details sprinkled through the book to get you further drawn into their stories.

The build up from the entry to the school and the training for being a nanny into the ‘real training’ for the elite Nannies.

I won this book through a good reads giveaway. giveaways Robert Fontenot1,374 15

I'm sure there are people out there who will this book but I'm just not one of them. I had trouble connecting with the characters nor could I get past a lot of the confusing choices inherent to the premise. I'm not sure what I was expecting, perhaps The Babysitter's Club series crossed with the movie D.E.B.S., but this was not it. giveaways Kate641 4

I love the strong female characters that move the plot forward. And the themes of how colonialism impacts the identity of individuals and how politics interferes with our humanity. I will definitely recommend this to my social justice book club! Thank you to Monica McGurk, Greenleaf Book Group and Goodreads Giveaways for this super Kindle book! Coopers Mom73 5

This book had a very slow start and i struggled to stay engaged in the beginning. However, I’m the type of person that refuses to not finish books, so I persevered. Once the big secret came out about Norwood Academy, I absolutely couldn’t put this book down! The ending was a cliffhanger that left me wanting more and wondering when book two will be finished.giveaway-kindle1 Heather1,113

This ARC was provided to me via Kindle by River Grove Books and #NetGalley for my honest opinion. Opinions expressed are completely my own.

Unexpected twists and turns, keeps you entertained and guessing. Haley Smith260 1 follower

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