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My Turkish Fling

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Janie:
A gorgeous, grumpy Turkish farmhand? As a divorced 41-year-old, I could do worse. Emir's perfect fling material—too young and only visiting.

Except, he's too smart to be a farmhand and too serious for a fling. I mean, he never smiles. Never, ever. Challenge accepted.

I should date someone local but I'm obsessed with my mysterious house guest. The way he cares for my horse, cooks, and looks out for me—it's drawing me in too deep.

As we prepare my crumbling farm for my friend's engagement party, the heat between us builds. Danger lurks in my rural paradise. Things get complicated.

What if this isn’t just a fling?

Emir:
My brother's marrying a Kiwi, so I’m back in New Zealand, fixing broken trellis and sharing a house with a captivating blonde who’s definitely off-limits.

I'm the responsible one, destined to save the family business in Istanbul. Love is not on my radar, but Janie is getting under my skin, making me feel things I’ve forgotten. My self-control is hanging by a thread.

I don’t do flings, though. If she wants this, she’s mine. Janie better get her head around that.

---

My Turkish Fling is a spicy romance set in the rolling hills of Hawkes Bay, New Zealand — and Istanbul. This is the 2nd book in the Love Istanbul series. It can be read as a standalone, but best enjoyed after My Lucky Star.



Feisty, sunshiny Kiwi womanProtective, passionate Turkish grumpAdorable animals

365 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 12, 2024

2 people are currently reading
61 people want to read

About the author

Enni Amanda

16 books208 followers
Enni Amanda is a Finnish–New Zealand rom-com author who writes warm, funny love stories with real-life bite.

She immigrated from Finland to New Zealand in 2006 and promptly fell in love with the scenery, the people, and the strange thrill of not having to defrost a car every morning. After years spent studying filmmaking, running a film festival, and zig-zagging between two countries that really should be closer together, she discovered screenwriting, which eventually led to writing books (a slippery slope).

These days she lives in the Waikato (close to the rolling hills of the Shire), raising two energetic boys, designing things, and writing books while heroically avoiding housework.

Social: @enniauthor (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook)

Mailing list: https://enniamanda.com/newsletter/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Rahdika K.
309 reviews2 followers
July 21, 2024
This is the second book in the Love Istanbul series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first one, so I was thrilled when I received the e-ARC from the author for this book.

The story follows Cem’s brother, Emir, who travels to New Zealand to assist his brother with the wedding preparations. There, he meets Janie, a divorcee who has generously offered her farm as the wedding venue. As the preparations unfold, Emir and Janie’s lives become increasingly intertwined, leading to an unexpected romance. How these two characters navigate their budding relationship amidst the chaos of wedding planning forms the heart of the story.

You will like this if you are into tropes like:
❤️ Grumpy and sunshine
❤️ He falls first, she falls harder
❤️ Istanbul and New Zealand setting
❤️ Farmland love
❤️ Slow burn spice

If you are in a reading slump, I believe this book will help you get out of it. The dynamic between Emir and Janie is a whirlwind of emotions and delightful moments. Additionally, fans of the first book will enjoy spotting the cameos of Cem and Aria, which add an extra layer of enjoyment.

If you haven’t read the first book, you can still enjoy this one as a standalone. However, I do recommend reading the first book to fully appreciate the characters and their backgrounds.

Overall, if you are looking to spend your evening with a cup of tea and a cozy book, My Turkish Fling is an excellent choice. Its heartwarming story and engaging characters make it a perfect read.

I would like to thank the author for providing an e-ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Mrs Moa.
496 reviews29 followers
August 2, 2024
I absolutely loved this romance set in New Zealand.

💜grumpy sunshine
💜reverse age gap
💜forced proximity
💜small town
💜divorce
💜multicultural
💜spice

Janie is 41, Emir 35 - A love story with more “mature” characters was refreshing.

I was given a copy by the publisher and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Angie (mushmysteriesandmore).
377 reviews
July 10, 2024
I have been patiently waiting for this book for over a year since the first in this mini-series came out. This one can be read as a stand-alone but I highly recommend checking out the book prior to this one called My Lucky Star, as the couple (Aria and Cem) from that feature in this one too.

This book is all about Emir, the grumpy, no-nonsense, non-romantic elder brother of actor Cem. He used to be Cem's manager until Cem ditched his high profile glitzy lifestyle for more local roles. Now Emir is at a loose end, inherited his father's antique business in Istanbul which is losing money and customers. Back in New Zealand for Cem's engagement party and acting as translator and peacekeeper, he ends up becoming a Mr Fix-It and a temporary house guest of Janie, who happens to be Aria's boss.

Although he was cast as a (minor) villain in the first book, I still always liked Emir and felt there was more to him than just the miserable party-pooper we saw and I was right. He is grumpy but he's been hurt before, he's guarded and sensible until he meets Janie, a Sunshine Susie if ever there was one. However, Janie is also hiding her hurt, although she's more open about it than Emir. Recently divorced and the wrong side of 40 (her words), she's trying to make ends meet, take care of her farm animals and keep the repairs up on the farm she fought to keep in her divorce battle. Enter the slightly younger Emir, with time on his hands and a gift for animals, he helps out with repairs as the farm is to be used for Cem and Aria's engagement party. As they spend more time together, Emir lets Janie under his barrier and into his heart, and Janie comes to enjoy having a man around the place once more and to trust again. But Emir has to return to Istanbul and the antique shop disaster, and Janie has family commitments that keep her in New Zealand. With time running out, Janie and Emir have different perspectives on their romance, Janie is accepting of a short-term romance, but Emir doesn't do short-term, he's in it for keeps. So how to resolve this dilemma?

If you like Grumpy/Sunshine, Holiday Romance, He Falls First romance with a touch of Spicy Spice then this book is definitely for you.
Profile Image for itsallaboutbooksandmacarons.
2,301 reviews51 followers
August 11, 2024
The book profoundly resonated with me, making its characters feel like close friends whose journey I was deeply invested in. The female lead, at 41, navigating the challenges of life after divorce while managing a demanding career, struck a chord with me. Her story was a testament to resilience and self-discovery, and her struggle to rebuild her life was both heartbreaking and inspiring.

The male protagonist, at 35, was equally compelling. Initially, he was wary of falling in love, carrying with him a guarded heart shaped by his Turkish heritage. His reluctance was palpable, and it created a poignant tension throughout the story. Watching him transform from someone who resisted emotional intimacy to a man capable of deep, unwavering commitment was incredibly moving. His evolution underscored the idea that love, when it arrives, can challenge and ultimately change the very core of who we are.

Their romance was beautifully layered with emotion. The unexpected circumstances that led them to share a roof before the engagement party created a space for genuine connection and growth. Their interactions, full of humor and warmth, revealed vulnerabilities and strengths that drew me in. The way their relationship unfolded, with its moments of laughter and profound conversations, was deeply touching.

Their love story was a powerful exploration of how individuals from different worlds can come together in a meaningful way. It celebrated the courage it takes to open one's heart and the beauty of finding love when least expected. The depth of their feelings and the authenticity of their connection left a lasting impact, reminding me of the extraordinary ways love can transform lives.
Profile Image for Lynn_G.
1,121 reviews27 followers
November 2, 2024
Designated engagement and wedding photographer and brother to the groom to be, Emir is carrying the literal weight of his family’s legacy: their failing antiques business in Istanbul. When he’s introduced to kiwi Julie, his almost sister in law’s dear friend, he’s dismayed to realize he’s interested in her, but her life is an ocean away from where his duty lies, and he’s still shell shocked from the fallout of women throwing themselves at him to get to his movie star brother.

After enduring a very public and humiliating end to her long term marriage and the subsequent departure of her teenage sons to their exclusive boarding school, Julie is at peace with her decision to keep her ramshackle rural mini farm in New Zealand, replete with an obstinate horse and stunning, tranquil views for miles. When the exceptionally handsome and all too serious Emir gets thrown into her path in the run up to her bestie’s wedding, Julie opens to the possibility of a no strings affair which would end after the wedding festivities. Emir, however, has no intention of letting her go, but the impossible to overcome literal distance between them may destroy their chance at happiness.

This was another wonderful book by the seriously underrated author Enni Amanda. It’s part of a series, but it isn’t necessarily to have read My Lucky Star to enjoy this sultry slow burning novel.

I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Profile Image for Jen.
549 reviews
July 9, 2024
I was so excited to travel back to New Zealand - with a side trip over to Turkey - in Enni Amanda's second book in the Love, Istanbul series. I love a broody, grumpy MMC, so I could not wait to read Emir's story.

I loved these main characters. As we saw in his brother's story, Emir often takes the backseat to Cem; he's not famous, he's not rich, and he's had plenty of experience with women throwing themselves at him just to get to his brother. I just wanted to reach out and hug Emir, show him that he is, in fact, seen.

Luckily, Janie was there to actually hug him for me.

I loved that Enni chose a divorced woman in her forties as her FMC. Janie had a full life already behind her when Emir came into the picture, and I thought that made Janie's story that much more dynamic. So many romances focus on first loves and following your heart, but I loved this romance where the main characters had family commitments and couldn't just drop everything to be together. It was realistic, and something I don't see nearly enough in contemporary romances.

Emir and Janie were sweet and spicy, and I enjoyed watching them fall in love. This romance was about so much more than falling in love, though. It addressed career choices, family ties, and the difficult choices we often have to make when it comes to pursuing the life we want.

I loved this story, and can't wait to read what's next from Enni Amanda.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,425 reviews13 followers
July 6, 2024
Emir & Janie ❤️

🇹🇷Emir’s brother Cem, a famous Turkish tv actor, has fallen in love with his New Zealander fiancé Aria. The pair are planning their engagement party at Aria’s friend and boss Janie’s house.

🐴Given the choice to stay in Aria’s parents spare bedroom with a makeshift bed or the lovely Janie’s guest room on her rural property, help her get the place ready for the party and give her horse Molly her daily eye drops, surly Emir chooses Janie. It doesn’t hurt that he is captivated by the slight blonde recent divorcee and mom of two boys.

🎞️Emir is younger than her, comes from the other side of the world and neither seems to be flush, but the spark of attraction and ability to be open and honest with each other is there from the start, and it happens to be just what each of them needs.

📚I adore Enni Amanda’s stories, and this new instalment in the series inspired by Turkish tv is just awesome. I loved the pace, the development of the close relationship between Emir and Jamie, the banter and the kooky locals. Emir is usually brooding but Janie’s sunshine radiates on him and he becomes someone serious but happy. Just a wonderful read. You can read this as a standalone but don’t miss the opportunity to immerse in Enni’s wonderful New Zealand world.

Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4.5/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
Pub Date 12 Jul 2024
Profile Image for Noor 🎀.
22 reviews6 followers
October 3, 2024
Hello 💜

Note: I got this book as an e-ARC in exchange of an honest opinio and here are my thoughts 👇🏼

So, a couple of days ago I got accepted for this ARC and I started reading it yesterday. You all have to believe me when I say that this book gripped me so hard, I finished it in a couple of hours.

Yes, that’s how good it is. I loved the setting, the small town- farm/animals vibes/, the Turkish culture/concepts/language/ recipes mentioned and how the story takes place in both NZ and TR.

I really enjoyed the fast-paced short chapters and OFC the Dual POV!!! It is really awesome how Emir gets to express himself too. I would totally recommend this beautifully crafted funny, cute and romantic story - it is the perfect read for summer or if you need a moodlifter! 💌☀️
Profile Image for Rachael.
234 reviews32 followers
August 5, 2024
4⭐️, 2🌶️

~Grumpy/Sunshine
~Insta-love
~He Falls First
~Alpha-Roll
~Reverse Age Gap
~Forced Proximity
~Multicultural
~Single Mom

OK, so I really enjoyed this book. It is very much an insta-love story, so if that is not your thing, then you might want to avoid it. It fully acknowledges and embraces the insta-love, and while that's not always my favorite trope, I really liked the way it was done in this story.

This is the second book in the Love Istanbul series, but I was able to read and follow along in this one without having read My Lucky Star yet, so I don't think it's necessary. I say yet because I fully plan on reading the first book now since I enjoyed this second one so much. And the couple (Cem and Aria) from the first book and their engagement does feature heavily in the storyline of this book, so if you're someone who needs to read a series in order, I'd definitely recommend starting with the first book.

So as much as I read to escape reality, I did appreciate the representation of the real life struggles of people in their 30s and 40s that was portrayed in this story.
Emir (35) and Janie (41) are dealing with financial instability, familial expectations, exes, cultural differences, and physical distance (he lives in Istanbul, she lives in New Zealand where the story takes place over 2 weeks). Everything seems to be working against them from the beginning, and yet they can't help but fall for each other anyways.

Emir is the best kind of grumpy in this grumpy/sunshine duo. You know there's so much beneath the gruffness and stoicism, and the payoff when Janie gets it is just. so. good. 🫠
The way he lowered his guard, gave her his trust, and opened himself up to her while also showing her what she deserved from a partner. Such a perfect book boyfriend.

"The way he stood perfectly still, waiting for my next move, was the hottest thing I'd ever witnessed. A man who didn't pretend to know what I enjoyed. I didn't have to play along to protect his ego. I didn't have to convince myself I was having a good time. He was giving me space. He was listening."

No notes. I would love to find an Emir one day. Preferably soon... 😏
I would absolutely recommend this book for someone looking for a slightly angsty, insta-love, grumpy/sunshine, alpha-roll, later in life love story about two people who are convinced the world is against them finding their HEA, but who resolve to fight for it anyways. 💜

Just FYI: If you have any triggers when it comes to stalking or being watched, just be aware there is a minor story point where Janie, who was once a morning TV personality, deals with this. I did appreciate that the decision of what to do once they discovered who was behind it was put completely in Janie's hands. There is also some stereotyping of Emir because he is Turkish, and Janie deals with body image issues and negative attention that lingers from her days as a New Zealand celebrity.

I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Sixella MK.
145 reviews9 followers
July 9, 2024
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews: “My Turkish Fling” by Enni Amanda

Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.

Set on preparing for the wedding of his brother, Cem, and his Fiance, Aria, Emir is all business, no pleasantries. While he's visiting New Zealand, he shares housing with Janie, Aria's friend and reporter, while also helping her out around the farm. The more he spends time with Janie, the more Emir falls hard for her and his rigid persona slowly begins to crack. Will Emir and Janie find their own happy ending or are they meant to be just a Fling?

A continuation of Enni Amanda's summer read  “My Lucky Star”, Ms. Amanda once again effectively tells a page-turning, tension filled, telenovela-esque romance while incorporating what appears to be an ethnographic background and world-building that will send the reader into wanderlust escapism. This book also gives important commentary on the societal toxicity of Ageism and Sexism that appears to be constantly placed on some women as they get older compared to some men as they age, (ie. In some communities, there's a harmful ideology placed on women that once they get older, they are considered no longer desirable or beautiful).

As for the chemistry of Emir and Janie, it was quite the fascinating dynamic to follow. While Emir's characterization starts off a bit rocky, and I can't completely critique the representation as I need and hope to read more books with Turkish representation, the in-depth details of languages and culture continues to show a demonstration of Enni Amanda's research and efforts to represent the community respectfully. If you're looking for a summer read to become your next guilty pleasure and will spark your wanderlust, then don't miss out on this book when it hits online shelves on July 12, 2024!

Rating: 4/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 4/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Tropes to Expect: Grumpy/Sunshine, Age Gap, Wedding Narrative, Farm Narrative,
Single Mom Protagonist, He Falls First,
Friends-with-Benefits-to-Lovers, New Zealand/Turkish Representation, and Best Friend's Fiance's Brother.

Trigger Warnings: Discussions of Sexism, Depictions of Ageism, Discussions of Divorce, Discussions of Heartbreak, and Relationship Anxiety.
273 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2024
With his brother happily in love, & changing career paths, Emir feels a little @ sea. Caught in the whirlwind of Cem & Aria’s party plans, he’s not prepared to meet someone like Janie. Safe to say she feels the spark between them immediately, too.
I love a good redemption story. It was a tall order to believably make Emir into someone I liked, & could root for as he finds his footing. Amazing what getting inside a character’s mind can do.
Janie & Emir don’t go together on paper, but they actually complement each other really well. She’s the sunshine his grumpy heart needs. He brings the strong, honest support she needs. Thanks to their previous relationships, they’re both carrying a lot of hurt, & and a lack of confidence. It’s heartwarming when they learn to trust & help each other heal. They find the perfect thing together, but have terrible timing. I couldn’t figure out how they’d overcome obligations & geography to make their fling into a permanent thing.
Thanks to the author for allowing me to read an advance copy of the book. I really enjoy the way she writes, & her characters always seem to resonate with me. Janie & Emir face realistic problems, & it’s easy to identify with the emotions & decisions they grapple with along the way. I found this to be more than just a simple love story. It’s also about aging, acceptance, adaptation, & finding happiness when least expected.
3,739 reviews43 followers
July 7, 2024
The Turkish male lead really won me over😍

I thought this follow-up to My Lucky Star surpassed the earlier romance, largely thanks to the male lead. Emir's character had such emotional depth and a touching backstory. He's always played second fiddle to his handsome, actor younger brother Cem (the male lead in My Lucky Star), even with his family and in his love life until he meets New Zealand divorcee, former television journalist Janie. He is so good at supporting and protecting her, helping around her farm, in the kitchen, and even wielding the vacuum cleaner! And Janie quickly sees behind his grumpy demeanor to recognize and value Emir, whose self esteem has received so many knocks as he is compared with and eclipsed by his famous brother.

The way their individual family responsibilities creep in to stymy any lasting relationship between them even before it starts got me. Their seemingly ill-fated connection, two strangers brought together from opposite sides of the world for a mere two weeks, was emotionally charged romance at its best. Suffice it to say it ends in the best romantic tradition, but with lots of heartfelt anguish and some steamy times along the way.

Since discovering this New Zealand transplant author, I've enjoyed every new novel she writes.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
208 reviews4 followers
July 13, 2024
Absolutely loved this rom com story from the first page. You met some familiar characters but got to delve into the silent grumpy Emir from book 1. Who knew he was a horse whisperer. There is something so warming in the writing style of Enni, and I am so lucky I found her as an author. I look forward to her releases each time. Her integration of two cultures is amazing! I love representation in her books. I was engrossed in the story and I got through it in 3 days, because it is a substantive book, both in content but size. The care and time taken to put her story together really shows in the quality of the book and writing. There are so many innuendo's mixed in with a humouros dialogue, and a dual POV!

Emir from being the dark horse in book 1 because the enlightened man we all need, but as Aria said just for Janie. And Janie, she truly deserved all the happiness in the world, and her farm and boys and friends coming together in this book made such a heart warming journey for her. And as Emir said he was still broken years later, so what does time mean (total paraphrase btw). It was lovely to see Cem and Aria develop, but next to these two their love seemed tame lol!!!

A definite must read if you want to to escape for a few days into a world of romance and drama!
Profile Image for Alicia.
64 reviews3 followers
July 27, 2024
@enniauthor makes magic again with her newest romance release My Turkish Fling (the follow up to My Lucky Star)

In this book, we get Emir & Janie’s story.
When we met Emir in My Lucky Star, he was the grumpy, party pooper, manager brother to Cem (our MMC) he was a minor villain, if you will. But, in this book, he gets his redemption arc when he almost immediately falls for Janie (Aria’s boss)

Turns out, this Turkish hunk is actually a big softie and he won’t stop trying to prove to Janie that despite living in different countries, their love can beat the odds stacked against them.

As always, Ennie’s characters are beautifully written and with such care. Her romances are new and refreshing. I promise you they are not like other mass produced books out there! For one thing, Janie is a 41 year old divorced mom of 2. Romances are hardly ever written with a FMC above the age of 25. As a single woman in her 30’s, to feel represented by characters out of their 20s means so much. If you know, you know.
Profile Image for Vida Sik.
Author 27 books87 followers
November 10, 2025
It's never too late to find the love of your life
What a lovable “grump” Emir turned out to be! He truly deserved a big hug. Like Janie, I couldn’t wait to see him smile — and she turned out to be exactly what he needed.
I really enjoyed this later-in-life romance (and honestly, I think a woman in her 40s is in her prime!). The story beautifully explores what it means to find your place in the world when life doesn’t go as planned. It touches on cultural differences, a reverse age gap, family expectations, and the weight of responsibility — all in a way that feels heartfelt and real.
Janie is pure sunshine, just what Emir needs to soften his edges, while he helps her see herself and others with greater honesty. Yes, it’s an insta-love story, but it feels genuine and earned — and thankfully, there’s no unnecessary breakup drama near the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed this warm, relatable, standalone novel — the second in the Love Istanbul series — and highly recommend it. While I enjoyed the 'tour' of Istanbul in the first book, this one is my favourite.
1,897 reviews4 followers
March 22, 2025
It is rare to find a book based in New Zealand (NZ) and here we have Emir who travels there due to his brother’s engagement with an actress based in NZ. While there, he meets with Janie who is also a single mum to two teenage sons.

What starts of as friendship soon turns into more for these two lonely souls. When circumstances leads Emir to move in with Janie, it further heightens their feelings for one another.

Unfortunately, I could not really feel the chemistry between them. It was hot cold hot cold all the time between them and at times Emir did not really act honourably. If this was a dark or mafia romance, that might have fit the character better. But since it isn’t, if feels a bit offensive.

However, I did like the scenes between Emir and Josh, her son. It was heartwarming to see them opening up to each other. Their biggest challenge was resolved perfectly with a sweet ending for them.
1,163 reviews5 followers
July 12, 2024
Great fun! I love the author's own description - a grumpy sunshine romance. That describes it pretty well!
If you've read the previous book (although it's not strictly necessary) you will be familiar with most of the characters, but this book has quite a different vibe to that one. In a good way! For me, having a different reason for not getting together, rather than the 'enemies to lovers' plot, made this really interesting.
These books are written with a very light touch, so that humour can be found at all times, which I really like. The characters were great, Emir particularly. I also liked the animals in this, and the lovely mention of New Zealand's beautiful flowering trees.
A touch of Istanbul made this the perfect romance.
Profile Image for enjoyingbooksagain.
795 reviews72 followers
July 12, 2024
A grumpy sunshine romance
This is the second book in this Love Istanbul series which can be read as a stand-alone but I always recommend if you can read the first book first My Lucky Star to get to know more about the characters. I read My Lucky Star awhile ago so I was so happy when Turkish Fling came out so I could finally see what going on and the author didn’t disappoint.
Book two does have Aria & Cem but it’s more about Emir you’ll remember him if you read the first book & he’s still the grumpy person he was and he does have flings but does he stay that way.
The book is set in the rolling hills of Hawkes Bay New Zealand and Istanbul
If you like
Grumpy/ sunshine
Spice
Second chances
Farm setting
You’ll enjoy this book
Profile Image for Chia.
721 reviews11 followers
August 1, 2024
"My Turkish Fling" by Enni Amanda takes readers on a romantic journey from the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand to the vibrant streets of Istanbul. As the second book in the Love, Istanbul series, it beautifully continues the saga with the story of Emir and Janie.

Emir, the broody and grumpy elder brother of Cem from "My Lucky Star," steps into the spotlight in this installment. He's not famous or wealthy like his brother, and he's often overshadowed by Cem's charisma. Emir's guarded and sensible nature stems from past hurts, making him a complex and relatable character.

Enter Janie, a divorced woman in her forties, who is juggling life on her farm and healing from her own past wounds. Janie's character is refreshing and realistic; her age and life experiences add depth and authenticity to the story. The dynamic between her and Emir is compelling—she's the sunshine that his grumpy heart needs, while he provides the strong, honest support she craves.

Their relationship is a beautiful blend of sweet and spicy moments. The chemistry between them is palpable, and their journey from a casual fling to something deeper is engaging and heartwarming. Emir and Janie face realistic problems, from family commitments to personal insecurities, making their story relatable and emotionally resonant.

The setting of the book is another highlight. The author’s vivid descriptions of New Zealand and Istanbul create an immersive experience, transporting readers to these enchanting locales. The farm, with its adorable animals and rustic charm, adds a cozy and homely feel to the romance.

The story also addresses significant themes such as aging, acceptance, and the pursuit of happiness. Emir and Janie's journey is not just about falling in love; it's about healing from past wounds, making difficult choices, and finding joy in unexpected places.

"My Turkish Fling" is a delightful read that combines romance, humor, and heartfelt moments. The characters are well-developed and relatable, the plot is engaging, and the writing is both captivating and evocative. If you enjoy a good grumpy/sunshine romance with a touch of spice, this book is definitely for you. I highly recommend it and can't wait to see what Enni Amanda writes next!

---
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily reviewing.
Profile Image for Bex.
37 reviews
July 8, 2024
This is the second story in the Love Istanbul series. I definitely recommend reading My Lucky Star first, but it is not absolutely necessary but gives great context and background to the characters. Emir and Janie's story is just beautiful. With a classic forced proximity theme, these two couldn't be more opposite of each other, but they quickly connect and realize they share past pain and make that emotional connection that leads them on a gorgeous journey together. Emir is a grumpy Turkish man, and Janie has recently been through a divorce and isn't looking for anything serious but circumstances bring them together and I loved the way they bought out the best in each other.
Profile Image for Dasha.
327 reviews
July 15, 2024
I highly recommend this sunshine/grumpy romance. The characters of Janie and Emir are great and I loved them. They are relatable and you are rooting for them the whole time. I love the build up of the relationship between the two and the world building. This is the second book in the series and I recommend the first one too. This book takes place after the first. I really enjoyed the tie in from the first book too, with the engagement party of Cem and Aria at the end of the book. This book is steamy, funny, and entertaining.
I received this book as an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Natasha (The Bookbasket).
373 reviews9 followers
July 25, 2024
This is such a wholesome book about finding love when you least expect it! I loved the characters and the pining. There's just something about Grumpy x Sunshine that makes my heart melt, especially when the Sunshine is the only person who can make Grumpy smile!

The writing style is so good! Nothing is over-explained or has unnecessary repition, and the small mystery element added in here was such a fun experience.
I did guess who it was though 😂 maybe because they just gave me creeper vibes.

This is my second Enni Amanda and I'm definitely diving headfirst into the back list pretty soon!

Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC for my honest review ❤️
Profile Image for Rudrashree Makwana.
Author 1 book71 followers
July 23, 2024
The characters are warm, emotional, and understanding. The setting is beautiful. Writing is compelling. This follows the odyssey of Emir, Cem’s brother and Janie, a divorce who let Cem and Aria use her farm as their wedding venue. Emir and Janie forms a unique bond. They are understanding, patient and accepting towards each other. While Janie is carrying an emotional baggage from the past. Emir is sweet and he falls hard. There is an unexpected love and innumerable emotions. As well as the character development is pretty good.

Thanks to the Author
Profile Image for J.
4,075 reviews21 followers
August 2, 2024
This is book 2 in Amanda's Love Istanbul series and can be read as a standalone. Our main characters are Janie and Emir. I loved that these characters were more mature as well as the setting. I thought this was a well written romance with a great storyline and flow. The characters are relatable, and level of sizzle was great. Overall, a great romance and I am very much looking forward to more from Amanda and this series!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Nancy.
409 reviews17 followers
August 5, 2024
This is the first book by this author that I have read and it did not disappoint!

Janie is hosting Emir, whose brother is engaged, and the engagement party is being held at Janie's farm. Emir is a bit grumpy but is helping Janie and is falling for her. Janie is a bit older than Emir, and has two sons, she is raising after her divorce. She is falling for Emir too. This was so well-written and engaging, loved the story and characters. Loved this book.

Need to read the first book in this series!
Profile Image for Monique Vala.
81 reviews6 followers
September 14, 2024
Just like the first book, I love this one too.

When Cem and Aria, decided to get married, they needed a place to host the engagement party, their friend Janie was ready to help, not knowing what would bring it with it. Emir, the brother of Cem, stays at Janie's place and helps on the Farm in return, not knowing how it would turn out for both of them.
They quickly evolve feelings for each other, but Emir must return to Turkey soon. So many obstacles to overcome, will their love survive?

I just love her books. Thank you for letting me ARC read.
2,195 reviews5 followers
July 27, 2024
I am so glad I read the first book in the series. I’m sure i enjoyed “My Turkish Fling” even more than I would have otherwise. Ms. Amanda wrote a delightful story, full of romantic drama. I enjoyed the way she conveyed the various ethnic flavors that are so important to the story. The physical spicy parts were just right. I was certainly hoping (expecting) Emir and Janie to have an HEA, though the story definitely kept me guessing. I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms. Amanda’s work.
2 reviews
October 4, 2025
Ahhhh Emir, so angry but such a kind soul. He was just perfect in a grumpy/sunshine trope, and Janie was really the perfect opposition for him. I really enjoyed this, even more than the 1. Book in the series (which was a favourite for me even).

I liked the authors mention of the earthquake in Turkey/Suria, and how she showed some of the Turkish’s persoective on the situation. It was a great read, the longing and fear of new relationships was amazing❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,491 reviews19 followers
July 11, 2024
extraordinary
I just love this author, her books always shine a light on unusual characters in extraordinary situations but still something similar could happen to you and me as well. I loved that Janie a divorcee in her forties finds a second chance at love with determined and responsible Emir, again we see that love doesn´t care about age or cultural background.
Profile Image for Booklovingcorgimom.
45 reviews
July 14, 2024
When the grumpy stand offish MMC says " nothing about this is temporary or a job. When something changes the course of your life, it's a forever thing. You're my forever thing Janie. I'll never be the same". I loved this book it was full of heart. A great slow burn and loved the development and relationship between Janie and Emir.
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