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Loving Jemima
Can the truth really set you free?
Jemima Darlington has a secret, one that’s she’s determined to keep from her rich, intolerant family. Until fate steps in and she’s forced to work with the only woman that’s ever turned her down, and the one person who can spill the truth. Jem’s got two trust Ellie or go nuclear and get her fired. And she’s never been one for subtlety.
Ellie Baker has spent her life building up her party planning business, and the Darlington Bank anniversary party is a make or break opportunity. Her life is comfortable, and the last thing she needs is for Jem Darlington to show up with her stupid pretty face and penchant for sabotage. She’s got panic attacks and mold in the bathroom to deal with, after all.
But being forced together means Jem and Ellie can’t help but start to see each other in a different light. And soon, the anniversary party becomes the least important thing on their minds. They just can’t keep their hands off each other, no matter how inappropriate that may be. Until they both have to decide what’s more a comfortable life, or the truth?
Add in a glamorous assistant, a Welsh socialist who can’t decide what she wants, a next door neighbor who isn’t at all what he seems, a fake boyfriend with secrets of his own, and a cat who just wants to sleep on the couch, and eventually the truth will out. But will Ellie and Jem be able to survive the fall-out?
Loving Jemima is a lesbian romance featuring a very happy ending, from bestselling Sapphic writer Sienna Waters, author of The Wedding that Almost Wasn’t, Crossing the Pond, and Teaching Hope.
Jemima Darlington has a secret, one that’s she’s determined to keep from her rich, intolerant family. Until fate steps in and she’s forced to work with the only woman that’s ever turned her down, and the one person who can spill the truth. Jem’s got two trust Ellie or go nuclear and get her fired. And she’s never been one for subtlety.
Ellie Baker has spent her life building up her party planning business, and the Darlington Bank anniversary party is a make or break opportunity. Her life is comfortable, and the last thing she needs is for Jem Darlington to show up with her stupid pretty face and penchant for sabotage. She’s got panic attacks and mold in the bathroom to deal with, after all.
But being forced together means Jem and Ellie can’t help but start to see each other in a different light. And soon, the anniversary party becomes the least important thing on their minds. They just can’t keep their hands off each other, no matter how inappropriate that may be. Until they both have to decide what’s more a comfortable life, or the truth?
Add in a glamorous assistant, a Welsh socialist who can’t decide what she wants, a next door neighbor who isn’t at all what he seems, a fake boyfriend with secrets of his own, and a cat who just wants to sleep on the couch, and eventually the truth will out. But will Ellie and Jem be able to survive the fall-out?
Loving Jemima is a lesbian romance featuring a very happy ending, from bestselling Sapphic writer Sienna Waters, author of The Wedding that Almost Wasn’t, Crossing the Pond, and Teaching Hope.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2024
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105 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 2, 2024
3.5 Stars
I needed a light and easy romance to break the angsty streak of books I’ve dug myself into. This was the perfect palate cleanser after 4 books straight of complicated plot lines.
The story is a rich girl - poor girl situation but what added weight to the plot was the author’s way of presenting coming out. There’s been so many coming out stories but this one rung closer to reality (for me). The fear, uncertainty, shame, despair, it was more pronounced. Aside from the doom and gloom, there are some funny one liners and it was a subtle comedy to break the tension. I enjoyed reading this book. Period.
I needed a light and easy romance to break the angsty streak of books I’ve dug myself into. This was the perfect palate cleanser after 4 books straight of complicated plot lines.
The story is a rich girl - poor girl situation but what added weight to the plot was the author’s way of presenting coming out. There’s been so many coming out stories but this one rung closer to reality (for me). The fear, uncertainty, shame, despair, it was more pronounced. Aside from the doom and gloom, there are some funny one liners and it was a subtle comedy to break the tension. I enjoyed reading this book. Period.
April 27, 2024
Jemima Darlington is a spoilt rich brat, partying too much, and always out looking for a conquest for the night. To her family and friends, she isn’t out, and so keeps that side of herself secret, except for one friend, Rolly.
Ellie Baker is an event planner, just getting her business going, and having the contract for the Darlington company’s 150 year party would really make her small business known. With her friend and assistant Mo, and Carys, her friend and graphic designer from the office next door, they make a good team.
This is different from the stories Sienna Waters usually tells, but different in a very good way. There are some very deep thoughtful moments, many laugh-out-loud moments, and lots of over analysing, especially by Ellie. Ellie can be an anxious mess, but with the help of Jem, she overcomes most of that over time. I really enjoyed Jem and her attitude - rich brat, but she knows when to admit she is wrong and to apologise, and she is very sincere about it. She is surprisingly self aware of her entitled upbringing, eventually becoming a warm friendly person. Her journey was one of the highlights of the story.
The whole cast of characters is very lifelike and believable; even the boor of the story, Jasper, Jem’s brother, changes and becomes slightly more likeable, under the strong guide of his wonderful wife Rosie.
Ellie Baker is an event planner, just getting her business going, and having the contract for the Darlington company’s 150 year party would really make her small business known. With her friend and assistant Mo, and Carys, her friend and graphic designer from the office next door, they make a good team.
This is different from the stories Sienna Waters usually tells, but different in a very good way. There are some very deep thoughtful moments, many laugh-out-loud moments, and lots of over analysing, especially by Ellie. Ellie can be an anxious mess, but with the help of Jem, she overcomes most of that over time. I really enjoyed Jem and her attitude - rich brat, but she knows when to admit she is wrong and to apologise, and she is very sincere about it. She is surprisingly self aware of her entitled upbringing, eventually becoming a warm friendly person. Her journey was one of the highlights of the story.
The whole cast of characters is very lifelike and believable; even the boor of the story, Jasper, Jem’s brother, changes and becomes slightly more likeable, under the strong guide of his wonderful wife Rosie.
May 5, 2024
A charming well-written coming out story with characters you can't help but love. Despite the expected angst it is not too slow of a burn. The story kept me engaged throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2024
It was alright. Definitely felt rushed
May 6, 2024
Loving Jemima by Sienna Waters was a fun and quick read. I finished in one sitting. The cast was diverse, unique, and easy to love (or hate). There was an instant attraction with the mains, but time together allowed the relationship to grow organically. Sienna Waters knows how to write a feel-good love story and, I am always here for it. She gently addressed sensitive issues and, angst was minimal. I loved the setting as well. Clean, easy-to-follow writing style makes Waters a go-to palate cleanser for comfort reads. #rich/poor #oppositesattract #nonbinaryrep #polyrep #birep #sapphic #thirdactbreakup #comingout #attheoffice #forcedproximity #HEA
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2024
As all of Sienna's books, their is a lot of humour, misunderstandings, laughter. Two lovely main characters, real opposite on the surface, but insidee.... A top reading
May 4, 2024
Here we have two MCs who couldn’t be more different. Ellie has worked hard to get her company off the ground and things are tight. Then there’s her panic attacks. Now she gets a dream job planning a big event that will generate a welcome cash boost plus great publicity. Wonderful!
Jemima Darlington has been born with the proverbial silver spoon in her mouth. Life is great with just a few drawbacks. Her obnoxious brother. The family pushing for her to settle down, ie, get married. And last, but not least, her big secret she needs to keep from her family, no matter the cost. Add to that her latest car bingle and her father’s refusal to fund the repairs. He decrees she has to work to pay for it. Work? But where?
She has to help Ellie plan the family business’s big event. A piece of cake for a party girl, right? How hard could it be? It wouldn’t be if she didn’t have to work with the beautiful Ellie, the same Ellie who knows Jem’s big secret. It’s all a rude awakening for both of them.
Stir in Sienna Waters’ usual quirky side characters, plus Constable the cat, and it all results in an entertaining read.
Jemima Darlington has been born with the proverbial silver spoon in her mouth. Life is great with just a few drawbacks. Her obnoxious brother. The family pushing for her to settle down, ie, get married. And last, but not least, her big secret she needs to keep from her family, no matter the cost. Add to that her latest car bingle and her father’s refusal to fund the repairs. He decrees she has to work to pay for it. Work? But where?
She has to help Ellie plan the family business’s big event. A piece of cake for a party girl, right? How hard could it be? It wouldn’t be if she didn’t have to work with the beautiful Ellie, the same Ellie who knows Jem’s big secret. It’s all a rude awakening for both of them.
Stir in Sienna Waters’ usual quirky side characters, plus Constable the cat, and it all results in an entertaining read.
May 2, 2024
This book contained much that amused me. It is a light hearted almost rom com of a story set in modern day London, and does contain some characters that seem to have been living in the 1990s (or even late 80s).
The main romance is between someone brought up in a ‘council flat in East London’ and someone born with a silver spoon in their mouth. Opposites attract and all that.
It’s fun and flirty whilst addressing homophobia, exploring the possibilities of a relationship with an enby, and also has a character that is a mild mannered, well meaning, helpful, friendly neighbour who when he shows his true colours is a dangerous creep. Clever foreshadowing there.
There is some wonderful language in this book. I loved Pspspspspsps (not a typo) and it’s been a while since I came across execrable and malodorous.
And of course you can’t call someone Jemima without her having the nickname of Puddleduck.
But seriously, it contains humour, love, and the usual uncertainties when relationships begin and people don’t talk to each other and don’t ask questions they worry that they won’t like the answers to.
Another delightful book.
I read it in one sitting. You should read it.
The main romance is between someone brought up in a ‘council flat in East London’ and someone born with a silver spoon in their mouth. Opposites attract and all that.
It’s fun and flirty whilst addressing homophobia, exploring the possibilities of a relationship with an enby, and also has a character that is a mild mannered, well meaning, helpful, friendly neighbour who when he shows his true colours is a dangerous creep. Clever foreshadowing there.
There is some wonderful language in this book. I loved Pspspspspsps (not a typo) and it’s been a while since I came across execrable and malodorous.
And of course you can’t call someone Jemima without her having the nickname of Puddleduck.
But seriously, it contains humour, love, and the usual uncertainties when relationships begin and people don’t talk to each other and don’t ask questions they worry that they won’t like the answers to.
Another delightful book.
I read it in one sitting. You should read it.
May 2, 2024
This book has an awful lot jam packed into it. It also has trigger warnings which I think is a great idea so you know what to expect.
Ellie is the owner of her own party planning business. That would be Ellie that doesn’t like parties. Jem likes partying and living off her generous allowance from her rich parents.
After one too many prangs in her car, Jem is told she has to work for her father to pay the repair costs. That would be Jem who doesn’t work and has never worked.
Although the book covered some serious subjects like homophobia, being closeted and fixation, it’s all done in a way that doesn’t drag down the book. There’s the usual humour that I love in Sienna’s books and also a great epilogue that really gives us what all books need; a progress update that covers everything.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ellie is the owner of her own party planning business. That would be Ellie that doesn’t like parties. Jem likes partying and living off her generous allowance from her rich parents.
After one too many prangs in her car, Jem is told she has to work for her father to pay the repair costs. That would be Jem who doesn’t work and has never worked.
Although the book covered some serious subjects like homophobia, being closeted and fixation, it’s all done in a way that doesn’t drag down the book. There’s the usual humour that I love in Sienna’s books and also a great epilogue that really gives us what all books need; a progress update that covers everything.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2024
Another strong romance from this author's pen. There's ups and downs, the odd giggle here and there and the homophobe isn't in control.
The only thing that sat uncomfortably for me were the moments where Ellie either was suggested as forcing Jem to come out or took responsibility for Jem coming out. Ellie laid a boundary for her own life that was incompatible with where Jem was at in hers. Jem then made a choice based on what she, Jem, wanted. There was no pressure from Ellie. Rather, arguably, the pressure was put on Ellie by Jem wangling 'one night' pretending their differences didn't exist. Just a thought.
Love the HEA, though the style of the epilogue felt a bit weird. You'll just have to read it so you can make your own mind up.
The only thing that sat uncomfortably for me were the moments where Ellie either was suggested as forcing Jem to come out or took responsibility for Jem coming out. Ellie laid a boundary for her own life that was incompatible with where Jem was at in hers. Jem then made a choice based on what she, Jem, wanted. There was no pressure from Ellie. Rather, arguably, the pressure was put on Ellie by Jem wangling 'one night' pretending their differences didn't exist. Just a thought.
Love the HEA, though the style of the epilogue felt a bit weird. You'll just have to read it so you can make your own mind up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2024
another great read
This is another cracker by Waters. As with every other book you get drawn in from the beginning.
The two main characters are like chalk and cheese, supposedly, but I personally think they are very similar. Just living life from different places on the wealth spectrum. Once they meet you see they are similar, both trying to do the right thing for the wrong reasons. You can’t fix things without communication.
The side characters are mixture of good, bad and annoying. I’ll leave it to you to figure out who fits in what category.
Loved the epilogue, a little drama that you kinda knew was coming. All handled with little fuss and unnecessary angst. It was also great to see what every other character was doing.
Looking forward to the next one!
This is another cracker by Waters. As with every other book you get drawn in from the beginning.
The two main characters are like chalk and cheese, supposedly, but I personally think they are very similar. Just living life from different places on the wealth spectrum. Once they meet you see they are similar, both trying to do the right thing for the wrong reasons. You can’t fix things without communication.
The side characters are mixture of good, bad and annoying. I’ll leave it to you to figure out who fits in what category.
Loved the epilogue, a little drama that you kinda knew was coming. All handled with little fuss and unnecessary angst. It was also great to see what every other character was doing.
Looking forward to the next one!
May 1, 2024
Party planner Ellie and her non binary assistant Mo are hired to do a gala event for Darlington's.
Jemima has a lot on her plate, not the least of which is her homophonic brother and wondering how her parents might take her coming out.
After a encounter at a queer bar, Jem is stunned to discover that Ellie is working to set up her Father's party and terrified she'll out her.
Ellie desperately needs this to go well, and does not need this complication.
Good solid read. I liked the cast, the storyline moves brdkly and it was very enjoyable. Was pleasantly surprised by how well Jem's coming out actually played out too.
Jemima has a lot on her plate, not the least of which is her homophonic brother and wondering how her parents might take her coming out.
After a encounter at a queer bar, Jem is stunned to discover that Ellie is working to set up her Father's party and terrified she'll out her.
Ellie desperately needs this to go well, and does not need this complication.
Good solid read. I liked the cast, the storyline moves brdkly and it was very enjoyable. Was pleasantly surprised by how well Jem's coming out actually played out too.
May 5, 2024
Jemima Darlington had a secret that she kept from her family and friends . Just one confidante . She was a bit of a player , rich and spoilt a bit of a brat , but one day she met Ellie a girl who had the gall to say no . Take that! Ellie is an event and party planner and her fledgling business would fly high with the Darlington Bank’s anniversary gala. One spoke in her wheel is Jem Darlington until they’re working close together and catch some feels…. Great romance with hilarity to boot. Great writing , descriptors sublime.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2024
There's a lot packed into this story as we follow Jemima and Ellie through twists, turns, homophobia, panic attacks, and stalkers as they grow closer together.
To add to this, there's another super cute relationship to be witnessed between Ellie's assistant, Mo, and Carys, the graphic designer from the office space next door.
Lots of laughs, cuteness, a tale that will keep you on your toes, and a happy ever after ending.
*I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.*
To add to this, there's another super cute relationship to be witnessed between Ellie's assistant, Mo, and Carys, the graphic designer from the office space next door.
Lots of laughs, cuteness, a tale that will keep you on your toes, and a happy ever after ending.
*I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.*
May 1, 2024
Another great read from SW. This is an opposites attract with a rich party girl and a hardworking but just scraping by homebody. There is also a large cast of diverse side characters - some of whom are not very nice! - but all well written.
It’s got a bit of drama and angst obviously because otherwise it would be dull but it’s not too drawn out or unbelievable.
If you’ve liked any other SW books you will definitely like this one. If you haven’t read any then get this one as I definitely recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It’s got a bit of drama and angst obviously because otherwise it would be dull but it’s not too drawn out or unbelievable.
If you’ve liked any other SW books you will definitely like this one. If you haven’t read any then get this one as I definitely recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 1, 2024
Another sweet and loving story from Ms. Waters. A little different than her typical stories as this one is an opposites attract love story: rich party girl vs. more of a homebody, hard working girl. It has the typical ingredients found in her books, little drama, angst, great cast of supporting characters and of course the love story.
If you like Ms. Waters books, you will enjoy this one as well, it does not disappoint.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you like Ms. Waters books, you will enjoy this one as well, it does not disappoint.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2024
Loving Jemima combines themes of reluctant proximity, financial disparity and being in the closet as it follows the developing relationship between Jem and Ellie. A critical subplot follows Jem’s progress from spoiled rich girl to a woman who takes ownership of her true self. Consistent with the situation, there is a fair amount of angst. The story arc includes a diverse secondary cast including a homophobic relative, a surprise and creepy stalker, and several very supportive friends and relatives. This is an enjoyable read with a satisfying conclusion.
May 4, 2024
I enjoyed this lighthearted low angst story. I liked Ellie's open and no nonsense approach. Jem started out trying to sabotage Ellie but changed to helping her as she began to like Ellie and the party planning job. Secondary characters Carys and MO were funny as well. There is a bit of a mystery also. If you like fun banter, low angst to happy with a twist of mystery you'll like this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2024
I loved this book, it is a little different from Ms Waters usual books, but not in a bad way. Jemima comes from money, she is a little spoilt and uses partying as a way to cover up what she is really feeling. She meets Ellie, who is a party planner and her life begins to change. This is a well written story, with good main and side characters. Well worth the read.
May 3, 2024
Be brave
I loved the characters and how they seem to balance each other out. Ellie is living day to day in her little comfort zone and Jem just blows in and shakes it all up. Jem is still hiding her true self from others until her feeling for Ellie make her want more. The supporting characters of Mo, Rolly & Carys are wonderful, caring and colorful friends. The story is well written and handles some sensitive subjects honestly and with care.
I loved the characters and how they seem to balance each other out. Ellie is living day to day in her little comfort zone and Jem just blows in and shakes it all up. Jem is still hiding her true self from others until her feeling for Ellie make her want more. The supporting characters of Mo, Rolly & Carys are wonderful, caring and colorful friends. The story is well written and handles some sensitive subjects honestly and with care.
May 3, 2024
when closeted by economic necessity, coming out can have real money consequences
it's easy to say that being your own truest self is best when it costs you nothing
so what is most important? and what is really someone else's business?
kinda sweet, kinda sad romance with high potential cost fallout
it's easy to say that being your own truest self is best when it costs you nothing
so what is most important? and what is really someone else's business?
kinda sweet, kinda sad romance with high potential cost fallout
September 9, 2024
I wasn’t exactly a fan of a lesbian side character falling for a male side character, tbh. I get that Mo identifies as non-binary, but the idea that a lesbian is somehow ‘intolerant’ (the character’s own words, by the way) for not liking dick… doesn’t sit well with me in a lesbian romance novel. I also didn’t really like how Jem not coming out to her family (including her incredibly homophobic brother) was considered lying (by Jem and her family) and cowardly (by her gay friend).
June 13, 2024
I love it when I get a Sienna Waters book, I know it's going to be good. This book did not disappoint. Jemima and Ellie are so sweet together. You don’t want to miss this book. I absolutely loved Mo. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 10, 2024
Leaving the closet is not easy and Jemima had to make that decision. Ellis did not wish to be a secret.
But the story was great. Good rhythm and pace, well written. Recommended
But the story was great. Good rhythm and pace, well written. Recommended
May 22, 2024
TOO CUTE!
I enjoyed this book a lot, it got better as I turned each page. The ending was almost tongue in cheek, which was too cute!
I enjoyed this book a lot, it got better as I turned each page. The ending was almost tongue in cheek, which was too cute!
Read
September 16, 2024DNF
March 1, 2025
inclusion
I loved this book especially the inclusion of all walks of life. It was a happy ending for most everyone and I wish real life could be the same!
I loved this book especially the inclusion of all walks of life. It was a happy ending for most everyone and I wish real life could be the same!
May 11, 2024
Jemma was a brat!! I hated the way the ending felt rushed!!
But other than that I loved it!!
But other than that I loved it!!
May 5, 2024
Really enjoyed this, the twists and turns are great . I was routing for them sort it out and get it together. A brilliant well written book with great characters.
July 7, 2025
I think overall it's a cute read.
I liked Jem and Ellie together. I think the start does do well to characterize her as rich and bratty, I kind of had Alexis from Schitt's Creek in my head while reading. But she does change/grow throughout the story, and I came around to her. I also liked Ellie. I thought the main issue between them (being in the closet vs not wanting to be somebody's secret) was fair for both sides, so I could understand the reluctance to commit to more, when they were so obviously into each other.
I did have some issues with the book, a big one being the epilogue, but there were others as well.
Okay, well despite my complaints, I did really enjoy the book. I enjoyed the characters (main and side), and it got some laughs from me. I just think some points (and especially the epilogue) could've used some more work.
I liked Jem and Ellie together. I think the start does do well to characterize her as rich and bratty, I kind of had Alexis from Schitt's Creek in my head while reading. But she does change/grow throughout the story, and I came around to her. I also liked Ellie. I thought the main issue between them (being in the closet vs not wanting to be somebody's secret) was fair for both sides, so I could understand the reluctance to commit to more, when they were so obviously into each other.
I did have some issues with the book, a big one being the epilogue, but there were others as well.
Okay, well despite my complaints, I did really enjoy the book. I enjoyed the characters (main and side), and it got some laughs from me. I just think some points (and especially the epilogue) could've used some more work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews