Hello!

Average Ratings (from 36 ratings)
Overall star Rating
Did you enjoy this book?
Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
Would you read this author again?
BEING JADE- Simon & Schuster book review :
4.31 out of 5 based on 37 reviews.

BEING JADE

by Kate Belle

A tragic death. A family divided. Only truth can set them free.

Banjo Murphy is killed on the night he finally walks away from his wife, Jade, after twenty-five years of her adultery. In the aftermath, Banjo is bewildered to discover he still exists, and in despair he watches Jade collapse into deep depression and his daughters, Lissy and Cassandra, struggle with their unexpected loss.

Lissy is tortured by the mystery surrounding her father’s death. What compelled Banjo to leave the night he died? And why won’t Jade talk about what happened? Despite their volatile relationship, Lissy believes her parents’ love to have been enduring, but sensible

Cassandra sees things differently. When Cassy discovers a sketchbook chronicling Jade’s affairs, the truth of their parents’ relationship begins to unfold and Lissy’s loyalties are divided.

Searching for answers, Lissy contacts Jade’s ex-lovers. And watching from afar, Banjo aches as he discovers what these men meant to Jade – until Lissy’s quest reveals an explosive truth …

Being Jade is story about the passion and the bond that is hard to explain but impossible to erase from one’s mind.

Available as eBook or paperback from all major book retailers.

$29.99 paperback, $9.99 eBook


Published 9th July 2014


  • Terrific book !!

    Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down !!
    Very intriguing, interesting & suspenseful book.
    Loved it !! 🙂

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Couldn't put it down

    Riveting from the first page, the author has great story telling abilities, the descriptions were so great that you could picture what was happening and what it looked like. Loved the characters, you felt like you knew them. Can’t wait to read more.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Fantastic read. didn't want to put it down

    Great book. Drew me in and made me feel what the characters felt
    I love a book that i cant put down because its so good and this book did that.
    Fantastic

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • A good read

    I found the story different and interesting. The characters were well rounded and very real.
    I enjoyed that the story wasn’t predictable.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • emotional, thought provoking, encouraging you to question social values

    I have enjoyed reading this novel. It had suspense as it unraveled who Jade is as a person. At times I felt sorry for her whilst other times I was left sheathing at her apparent selfishness. As the ending unraveled I was left still disappointment in her. I understood her behaviour better in some aspects but I felt her pride against Banjo’s incorrect assumptions was devastating. I would read a sequel.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Great book

    This book is just amazing it is so hard to put the book after you read the first page. The story line feels like a real story. I’m in love with the book.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Amazing, enthralling and moving

    I’m supposed to post two reviews on this book one when I start it and one when I finish it but I can’t. I was so enthralled with this book that I couldn’t put it down, I had it read in 5 hours from front to back. The story shocked me and moved me, I even teared up at the end which was a credit to the author. The storyline was dramatic yet you believed it all and you felt it all. Simply amazing, I can’t wait to read another book by the incredible Kate belle.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • I read it in one sitting

    BEING JADE by Kate Belle is difficult to review as it is not your typical book. There’s an intriguing plot and vividly drawn characters that engage you in such a way, you can’t put the book down. I read this book cover to cover in one sitting, I wanted to read it that much.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Captivating and enthralling

    I really enjoyed this book. Captivating and enthralling it held my interest from start to finish. Part of the ending I guessed at but, the rest I didn’t see coming. It’s not a light hearted book, rather heavy at times, making you question things you probably would never of thought before. I highly recommend this book.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Fantastic Author. Well written

    Loved this book from cover to cover. Spellbinding, intriguing, mesmerising. So well written you thought you were in the story with the characters. Heart wrenching at times.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Jade needs to be read

    Being Jade is a wonderful book. Kate Bell brings the characters to life so the reader really cares what happens to them. It’s a book you can’t puts down. It is suspenseful and interesting, I loved it and have lent it to a couple of friends who love it as well.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Being read

    I lent my copy of Being Jade to a friend who loved it. She is now wanting to buy her own copy so she can re read it and then hand it on to her family members. Nice to have a positive report when recommending a book as it can be a personal thing where tast differs.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Interesting

    This is a suspenseful book that will test your emotions. It covers lots of contraversial topics. It is a book you will find hard to put down and overall it is a good read. The author is very talented and even though this is not my usual type of book to read, I’m glad I took the time to enjoy it.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Reading Jade

    Not my usual type of book to read but it was a good read. A well written novel by a very talented author. The book covered many emotions. I found Jade to be selfish and her morality questionable. Having said that, once I started reading I couldn’t put the book down.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Overall a great book.

    This was a really good read as with all by this author.
    I read it in a couple of days so for me not to put it down much says it was quite good. A friend of mine and my mum have read it and also enjoyed it.
    Love the variety of reviews on mouths of mums. It helps us busy mums make easy decisions about absolutely everything. Thank you. Enjoyed it and would recommend to other mums.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Being Jade

    Being Jade is a throughly entertaining book.
    From the start, and all the way through to the end, it captivated me, and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it.
    It’s not your normal romantic novel, and can be quite brutal in describing the behaviour of Jade however, I think that is part of the appeal, what will Jade do next?
    I have read this book a few times now and whenever I get others to read it, the majority have enjoyed it to.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Great Book!

    Being Jade is a book that I really enjoyed reading.
    From start to finish, this book grabbed my attention and held me interested as the story unfolded.
    Some of the story I could see unfolding, other bits caught me by surprise.
    It’s not the usual lighthearted chic lit but rather deep and heavy.
    I throughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Terrific book !!

    Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down !!
    Very intriguing, interesting & suspenseful book.
    Loved it !! 🙂

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • I read it in one sitting

    BEING JADE by Kate Belle is difficult to review as it is not your typical book. There’s an intriguing plot and vividly drawn characters that engage you in such a way, you can’t put the book down. I read this book cover to cover in one sitting, I wanted to read it that much.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Sad but interesting

    I found this book quite sad. It dealt with some pretty dark and serious topics, death, adultery, depression, but also love. It came down to all being about love. Some of it was a bit predictable but it was still enjoyable. There were some ‘if only’ moments. Jade and Banjo had great love for each other and it was really interesting going back over her extra-marital “relationships”. Not your usual love story.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Recommended

    Being jade
    After reading the reviews I thought I’d give this a read. I’m sure glad I did.
    It’s an interesting plot, with vividly drawn characters that keep you reading I’m finding it incredibly easy to imagining myself in story. Its seems like its getting more interesting as I go
    I’ve not come across this author before, but will definitely follow through on another title to see if she is this strong across all her writings.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Being jade

    It’s an interesting plot, with vividly drawn characters that keep you reading along each night – I had trouble putting the book down at the end of a chapter to go to bed. The author has a clever narration that makes the book flow really well.
    I’ve not come across this author before, but will definately follow through on another title to see if she is this strong across all her writings.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • gripping

    After reading the reviews I thought I’d give this a read. I’m sure glad I did. I couldn’t put it down.definitely not what I was expecting,love, drama, suspense and at times depressing. Give it a read you won’t be disappointed

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Not your typical love story

    I just finished reading BEING JADE by Kate Belle for a second time. This novel is a really great read. Be warned however, that it is not your usual chic lit romance story. It is dark, sad and at times depressing. A love story that endures, even though it is not typical of this genre.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • I love this book!

    I loved this book. I’ve read it twice now, I just couldn’t put it down! It was amazing and gripping
    It was emotional and heartfelt
    It was cold. But inviting
    I could keep writing things but I loved it so much I want to go and read it again 😀
    I would recommend this book to anyone
    It was one of the best books I’ve read this year
    I’m so glad I was given the opportunity to read it and fall in love with it



  • Captivating & Sad

    I borrowed this book from the library and have just finished reading it. It was captivating but I thought the story itself and the character Jade was narcissistic and sad. It left me thinking about my own life situation and it is a thought provoking book but I would prefer a book with a happy ending as for me reading is an escape, so while it is a worthwhile read, if you are looking for happy and uplifting, this isn’t it.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • NOT TOO BAD

    I brought the book an don’t mind it at all… I’m finding it incredibly easy to imagining myself in story. Its seems like its getting more interesting as I go 🙂

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Captivating and enthralling

    I really enjoyed this book. Captivating and enthralling it held my interest from start to finish. Part of the ending I guessed at but, the rest I didn’t see coming. It’s not a light hearted book, rather heavy at times, making you question things you probably would never of thought before. I highly recommend this book.

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • addictive

    Was a very good book to read, one of those where you thought you were part of it. Couldn’t wait to read it again after I finished a chapter

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?


  • Not my style of book!!

    I can’t say I enjoyed this book. A bit abstract for me… I like books that even though they are fiction, they could be about real life situations! Banjo’s character still around is not believable and also I found this book depressing. I like novels that have uplifting moments and hopefully a happy ending! Life is hard enough and I like to escape into literature!

    Did you enjoy this book?
    Would you recommend this book to other Mums?
    Would you read this author again?

Click here to post a review

Reviews on this page have now been disabled.

To register for reviews that are not open yet and for future reviews, enter your email below and we'll send you an email as soon as a review is open for application.

School holidays are usually a mix of excitement and mild panic. No lunchboxes (yay!) and no morning chaos. But figuring out how to keep the kids entertained without turning the house upside down or testing your sanity is the flip side!

We’re serving up a couple of fabulous winter school holiday options that are tried-and-true crowd-pleasers – and they feel like a day out for everyone, not just the kids.



Whether you’ve got little ones bouncing off the walls or teens too cool to smile, Zone Bowling and Timezone have something for every age (yes, even you). And with winter weather keeping us mostly indoors, they’re the perfect solution when parks and play centres just aren’t cutting it.

They’re fun, indoors, great value, and actually make you feel like you’ve had a proper day out… not just one of those ‘I need a nap after that’ outings.

Why Zone Bowling And Timezone Always Come Through

There’s something about Timezone that just hits different. The mix of lights, sounds and excitement pulls you in from the second you walk through the doors. You’ll find the latest arcade games, laser tag and bumper cars as well as viral sensations like Pixel and Colourgrid. Basically everything kids could want, all in one (warm) place.

And it’s not just for them. Whether you’re a closet arcade expert or a skill tester freak, it’s very easy to get swept up in the excitement.

What’s on this winter at Timezone?

Timezone is running its Fun Frenzy promotion for a limited time. The more you load onto your Powercard, the more bonus credit you score:

  • Load $100, get $60 bonus game credit
  • Load $80, get $45 bonus game credit
  • Load $60, get $30 bonus game credit

That’s a whole lot of extra play time without paying extra. No bookings, no stress, just load up and get stuck into the action.

Visit Timezone and find your nearest location.

Deals are for a limited time only. Terms and Conditions apply. See website for full offer details.

Zone Bowling: So much more than just bowling

If you haven’t been to a Zone Bowling in a while, you might be surprised by just how much they’ve packed in. Of course, there’s bowling, with proper shoes and shiny lanes and that satisfying sound of a strike – but that’s just the beginning.

There’s also arcade games, laser tag, food and drink (decent coffee!), plus comfy spaces to hang while the kids run wild. It’s the kind of place where everyone – toddlers, teens, tired parents – can find something to enjoy.

And the best part? The Fun Zone Passes.

They bundle everything up into one easy purchase, so you don’t have to keep reaching for your wallet every five minutes. Here’s what you can grab:

  • Mini Fun Zone Pass – $27.90
  • Mega Fun Zone Pass – $34.90
  • Ultimate Fun Zone Pass – $39.90

Each pass includes a mix of bowling, arcade games, Power Tickets (which kids can cash in for prizes), and more. It’s fantastic value, and makes planning your day so much easier.

Book your Fun Zone Pass now before the holidays slip away.

Offers available for a limited time only. Terms and Conditions apply. See website for full details.

Timezone And Zone Bowling: Kind of Day Out That Doesn’t Feel Like a Chore

Some school holiday outings sound fun in theory, but in practice? You’re exhausted, the kids are cranky, and no one’s really had a great time.

Timezone and Zone Bowling feel different. You’re indoors, warm, everything’s in one place, and you can actually relax while the kids entertain themselves (or team up with you for a round of laser tag). No weather worries, no logistics nightmare. Just good, clean, high-energy fun that ticks everyone’s box.

Ready to swap screen battles for smiles all round? Timezone and Zone Bowling make it happen, every single time – rain, hail or shine. Bring on the holiday fun!

  • The kids love going to Timezone, especially after being dragged around the shopping center! With 5 years between them it can be hard to find things they both enjoy but Timezone keeps them both happy, occupied and entertained! It’s also a great way to bribe them while we shop 😂

    Reply

  • Our family loves Timezone and kingpin. Theres always so much to do and always new games and toys to try out. It can definitely be costly though as you keep tapping away! We love the unlimited time play packages and often enjoy topping up on those special double dollar days to stretch it further.

    Reply

  • We will happily be off to visit Timezone during the holidays for some fun times. We all have favourite games to play. It is such a good idea to stick to a budget when visiting Timezone. Planning before going to Timezone is a good idea and helps to make good decisions and the fun last.

    Reply

  • It is absolutely so true! We went to our local timezone yesterday to reward some brave behaviour at the dentist and kick off our holiday fun. We had an absolute blast! The games had all been revamped and there was new stuff everywhere. The prizes are okay.. not great! The price to points could be more kindly proportioned. I mean 1000’s of points for a bag of lollies… Cost us a fortune to get them. Not at all as cost effective for a lot of people. I can only ever afford to get $60 at most and am so grateful for the bonus points at least. But when you consider it as $2.50 min per swipe of your card, you’ll burn through it within the hour. Still, we’ll be back for more joy!

    Reply

  • IN fact my husband took the kids bowling today while I was off doing something else – it was a great solution. They had an enourmous amount of fun, it didn’t cost too much, and the timing was just about perfect for my appointment. It’s definitely a great family activity. So Fun.

    Reply

  • We really do love going to Timezone for all of the fun activities that we all enjoy playing. Bowling is a firm family favourite activity to play and brings out the competition in all of us. It is a good option for indoor activities and fun for all of the family.

    Reply

  • Finding holiday activities is always difficult, especially with teens! Life is so busy that it can be really hard to even think about where to go and what to do, these ideas are going on my list for this holidays entertainment. Thanks Mouth of Mums for making my life easier

    Reply

  • Unfortunately, we don’t have anything that good here in Tassie. Our local bowling centre is very expensive and doesn’t have all the extras of some others. They do do school holiday specials though which are okay, but they don’t allow guard rails for adults anymore, so it’s not very fun for me :(.

    Reply

  • Another nice one for those who live in Brisbane is Urban Extreme; an ultimate experience of rock climbing, dodge ball, ski lanes, snowboarding, ninja, parkour, laser tag, trampolines, play area and an adventure park all together. With what they offer there is always something also the older kids and possibly parents like

    Reply

  • Things like Bounce, Time Zone and Zone Bowling never fail for most, but they are not for everyone; the mix of lights, sounds and excitement can be a massive sensory overload for those who are sensitive for that which can lead to complete panic attacks by some kids. Besides this not everyone likes bowling (we have one family member who really doesn’t like this)

    Reply

  • We head to timesone whenever we go near the Gold coast or Sunshine Coast. The kids have the absolute best time. I have not taken the kids bowling in a long time but it is my birthday this week so think it is a fantastic time to give it a go!

    Reply

  • Our family loves Timezone!! We definitely call ourselves regulars throughout the year. A great time where we can test our skill at claw machines and have a blast with the kids. My daughter’s favourite is driving me around on the racing game – definitely core memories unlocked! Its so fun all the time.

    Reply

  • My kids do enjoy Zone bowling- we’re regular visitors even during term time. And it’s fun for everyone in the family and it’s easy to invite a friend or two to join in if you’re so inclined. Not hard to learn if you’re a b3ginner – and you don’t need equipment either.

    Reply

  • Timezone often has good deals on and is lots of fun.

    Reply

  • Bowling is such a fun thing to do for school holidays with kids, I even picked it as my 10 year birthday treat. Timezone is a classic day out. I remember when the photo booth stickers were new and everyone’s diary was covered in them. We have a carnival in town over the holiday break so that’s out plan! Free entry, woo

    Reply

  • Kids love school holiday’s but my credit card doesn’t!!!!! I love Zone bowling, it is such a fun place to take the kids too. My daughter loves to bowl and finish off playing a few games afterwards. I am yet to take her to Timezone but it is on our list to try this year.

    Reply

  • I LOVE school holidays! I think preparation is the key to having a cheap yet successful one. I always start the holidays with a sheet on the wall with a list of free activities such as – hide and seek, read a book, do a puzzle, bake something etc.
    we have a rule in the house that you can’t say ‘there’s nothing to do’ or ‘I’m bored’ because there’s a list full of fun activities. We then have a few scheduled paid activities such as cinemas, Timezone and bowling! Bring your own snacks and you’ll save even more!

    Reply

Post a comment

To post a review/comment please join us or login so we can allocate your points.

↥ Back to top

Thanks For Your Star Rating!

Would you like to add a written rating or just a star rating?

Write A Rating Just A Star Rating
Join