The Reluctant Ninja

by Cheryl Ilov

Cheryl Ilov surprised everyone, including herself, when she began training in an ancient Japanese martial art at the tender young age of 47. As a self-proclaimed middle-aged princess, she was the last person anyone would expect to study martial arts.

Cheryl had been living a charmed life until it all came crashing down after a traumatic experience thrust her into the vortex of hell known as PTSD. As she tried to deal with the devastating effects of the trauma, she slipped deeper and deeper into the dark pit of despair.

Her salvation came when her acupuncturist finally convinced her that taking some martial arts classes would help her heal from the trauma. Little did she know that decision would take her on a journey which would change her life forever.

Cheryl takes her readers on a roller coaster ride as she skillfully weaves her remarkable story of personal transformation and triumph as she overcame her fears, discovered her inner strength, and unleashed her warrior spirit.

About Cheryl Ilov

Cheryl Ilov has always had a passion for storytelling. Her writing career began by chronicling medical documents and progress reports for thousands of patients as a medical professional in both respiratory as well as physical therapy. Along the way, she discovered that weaving stories along with treatment modalities helped educate her patients and was a powerful tool in their recovery and ongoing progress.

The Reluctant Ninja Reviews

“This truly empowering book explains the many benefits of martial arts practices, as well as gives readers the chance to tune in with author Cheryl L Ilov and share her raw account of the lasting and damaging effects which PTSD can have on your life.  It is a book that highlights the power of the human spirit whilst also being a really motivational how-to guide. Overall, The Reluctant Ninja is a unique and engaging memoir that will certainly enthrall its readers whilst also tugging their heartstrings. A recommended read.”

-K.C. Finn

“The Reluctant Ninja gives readers a vivid picture of what being a martial artist means and expresses that it is about “self-awareness, introspection, and pushing beyond your limitations.” Cheryl’s jovial tone makes her book such a delight to read. Her story felt surreal, like an epic martial arts movie with several exciting, spine-chilling, and unpredictable moments. I would be one of the first to see the movie if the story ever gets adapted into one.” 

-Faluso F. 

“Cheryl’s first book spoke to me, but this one hit more of a personal chord. Her lifestyle is totally different from mine, but I look up to her ability to overcome speed bumps. I’ve had a few of my own. Resilience I guess is the right word. Even though I am not always resilient, it is a quality I see in Mrs. Ilov I greatly admire. This isn’t my normal type of book but I enjoyed it thoroughly and am waiting for whatever is next.”

–Chris W.

Awards

Cheryl’s Books

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Vitality Zone

A fitness package by Cheryl Ilov
cheryl ilov

Are you ready to bust the myths of aging? Caution! You are about to enter The Vitality Zone.

Go for it!