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Love New Zealand #1
Nest or Invest
All is fair in love and real estate, right?
She's the single mum dreaming of owning a house. He's the hotshot developer about to make her homeless.
Single mum Shasa Daniels is heartbroken to lose her beloved, cheap rental. Even worse, it's being sold to Mac McCarthy, a developer about to replace the old villa with luxury condos. Determined to stop him, Shasa gathers her friends to outbid him and build community housing instead.
Mac, the man in thousand-dollar shoes, isn't as financially stable as he makes out. This deal promises to secure his future until Shasa the eco-warrior stands in his way. It's time to keep his eyes on the prize. Definitely not the time to get distracted by some bleeding-heart hippie, no matter how sexy and cute.
Looks can be deceiving. As Shasa learns more about (okay, snoops on) Mac, she discovers one surprise after another, including a mutual love of acting and sizzling stage chemistry. The more she finds out about the real Mac, the more she's torn between her building plans and the man she's inevitably falling for. In the end, is it better to win in love or in real estate?
Escape into this cheeky, heartfelt love story set against New Zealand's overheated real estate market.
She's the single mum dreaming of owning a house. He's the hotshot developer about to make her homeless.
Single mum Shasa Daniels is heartbroken to lose her beloved, cheap rental. Even worse, it's being sold to Mac McCarthy, a developer about to replace the old villa with luxury condos. Determined to stop him, Shasa gathers her friends to outbid him and build community housing instead.
Mac, the man in thousand-dollar shoes, isn't as financially stable as he makes out. This deal promises to secure his future until Shasa the eco-warrior stands in his way. It's time to keep his eyes on the prize. Definitely not the time to get distracted by some bleeding-heart hippie, no matter how sexy and cute.
Looks can be deceiving. As Shasa learns more about (okay, snoops on) Mac, she discovers one surprise after another, including a mutual love of acting and sizzling stage chemistry. The more she finds out about the real Mac, the more she's torn between her building plans and the man she's inevitably falling for. In the end, is it better to win in love or in real estate?
Escape into this cheeky, heartfelt love story set against New Zealand's overheated real estate market.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2021
About the author
Enni Amanda
18 books245 followersEnni 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/
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 66 reviews
May 6, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When Shasa Daniels is told that the affordable rental that she shares with her daughter is about to be sold, she is heartbroken.
She soon discovers the land is to be purchased by hot shot developer Mac McCarthy. His intent is to bulldoze her beloved villa to make way for flashy luxury condos.
Determined not to go down with out a fight Shasa and her friends band together to put in an opposing bid in order to build community housing on the land.
Mac has put everything on the line for this deal. It will either make or break his career. Shasa is the only thing in his way. He must not let his growing attraction to her distract from the end goal.
The more Shasa learns about Mac the more conflicted she feels. Who will win the battle between love and real estate.
What I liked about this book
The enemies to lovers trope is one of my favourites
The real estate angle was interesting
I liked the community vibe throughout the story
Shasa is a single mother - I liked that Mac made an effort with her daughter as well as Shasa
What I didn't like
The romance between Shasa and Mac was cute but I was looking for a bit more from their relationship.
Nest or Invest is a cute enemies to lovers romance that will appeal to lovers of contemporary romance.
4 stars
Find this review and others on my blog
When Shasa Daniels is told that the affordable rental that she shares with her daughter is about to be sold, she is heartbroken.
She soon discovers the land is to be purchased by hot shot developer Mac McCarthy. His intent is to bulldoze her beloved villa to make way for flashy luxury condos.
Determined not to go down with out a fight Shasa and her friends band together to put in an opposing bid in order to build community housing on the land.
Mac has put everything on the line for this deal. It will either make or break his career. Shasa is the only thing in his way. He must not let his growing attraction to her distract from the end goal.
The more Shasa learns about Mac the more conflicted she feels. Who will win the battle between love and real estate.
What I liked about this book
The enemies to lovers trope is one of my favourites
The real estate angle was interesting
I liked the community vibe throughout the story
Shasa is a single mother - I liked that Mac made an effort with her daughter as well as Shasa
What I didn't like
The romance between Shasa and Mac was cute but I was looking for a bit more from their relationship.
Nest or Invest is a cute enemies to lovers romance that will appeal to lovers of contemporary romance.
4 stars
Find this review and others on my blog
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June 28, 2021This book will be re-published in 2027 as Play for Love.
August 21, 2023
A great light romance with two loveable main characters and so many great supporting characters, especially Elsie. I would like to see more of her.
I loved how this book had a perfect level of spice (for me.)Plenty of attraction between the 2 main characters, a couple of steamy scenes but not too graphic.
I loved how this book had a perfect level of spice (for me.)Plenty of attraction between the 2 main characters, a couple of steamy scenes but not too graphic.
February 20, 2023
Cute, fun and sweet! I dont feel like it really left me with anything and I didn’t completely fall in love with the characters or plot but it was a fun and light read.
February 26, 2021
Growing up in New Zealand, this chick-lit book captured my attention, and what made it even better was that it was set in Hamilton which is about 90 mins drive from where I live, and in Tauranga which is my town. The book starts in Hamilton where Shasa is a single mother to Lilia and renting a house where she has made it her own and a beautiful garden, she is also a fan of co-housing and has a bit of free-spirited values. When her house is visited by a valuation agent named Mac, it gets her thinking as she is worried about being able to find an affordable house for her daughter and herself especially in this market which is quite costly at the moment and this book reflected the current market. Shasa remembered a talk that was held in the local community center about co-ops and co-housing units. Along with her walk one day, she meets an older woman Elsie who will later reveal she is quite wealthy and knows her way around the property ladder and industry. With Elsie's help this becomes a "real goal' and soon Shasa and her friends -old and new start to get involved with making the cohousing units a reality. There's just one problem, someone else has bid on the property and is riding on the notion that if it doesn't go through for him, he will lose everything. Now Shasa is stuck in a bind as she wants this to go ahead for her friends and family but the competitor is Mac and she is finding herself falling head over heels for him? Can Shasa make both choices work or will she learn that no matter what way she goes, she will miss out on one of the options? Find out in this New Zealand chick-lit novel "Nest or Invest". I have to admit it was great to finally read an NZ author whose book wasn't blah and boring as often I find New Zealand novels quite long-winded and too much of a slow burn. This did have the slow burn romance but I think because I knew the settings talked about and Shasa's daughter Lilia stole the show often throughout the book - that made up for the slow pace. I am now looking forward to discovering what else Enni Amanda releases.
August 11, 2021
Shasa, a single mother, is devastated when she learns her house is about to be sold and destroyed to build luxury condos. It doesn't help that she has undeniable chemistry with the man heading this project, Mac. To combat this, Shasa and a few other locals band together to outbid him and instead build community housing on the land. But what will happen as Shasa and Mac grow closer?
I'll be honest, I'm having a hard time collecting my thoughts for this book. I loved the concept and at least the first 10% was a solid 4 stars. I also enjoyed Elsie's whole contribution and whatever the hell was going on in her head (even if some of it could be considered a tad dodgy). Not to mention how cute little Lilla was, her interactions with Mac were just the sweetest!
I think one of my main issues comes from the fact that I couldn't decide who I thought the "bad guy" was between the main characters. And sure, neither of them were actually "bad" but it definitely felt like they were coming from two different moral standpoints and I could only support one. Shasa never really felt like she had much conviction in what she was doing and her whole eco-warrior thing she had going on was just confusing. Mac was portrayed to be a reeeeeal douchey character but they pulled the whole "he's good on the inside and actually all the bad things he wants to do is for a good cause". Both just frustrated me.
Either way, I had a good enough time. This is an easy read and definitely something to help pass the time. It was just a real strange combination of themes to read together.
I volunteered to review a free ARC of this book for BookSirens.
I'll be honest, I'm having a hard time collecting my thoughts for this book. I loved the concept and at least the first 10% was a solid 4 stars. I also enjoyed Elsie's whole contribution and whatever the hell was going on in her head (even if some of it could be considered a tad dodgy). Not to mention how cute little Lilla was, her interactions with Mac were just the sweetest!
I think one of my main issues comes from the fact that I couldn't decide who I thought the "bad guy" was between the main characters. And sure, neither of them were actually "bad" but it definitely felt like they were coming from two different moral standpoints and I could only support one. Shasa never really felt like she had much conviction in what she was doing and her whole eco-warrior thing she had going on was just confusing. Mac was portrayed to be a reeeeeal douchey character but they pulled the whole "he's good on the inside and actually all the bad things he wants to do is for a good cause". Both just frustrated me.
Either way, I had a good enough time. This is an easy read and definitely something to help pass the time. It was just a real strange combination of themes to read together.
I volunteered to review a free ARC of this book for BookSirens.
February 1, 2021
This is a fun, light, will-there-be-a-happy-ending novel from an author I love to read. It was fascinating to read about the house-acquiring plans of an interesting mostly-single mother. I did enjoy reading this book, and recommend anyone who likes easy read books, and it would be particularly interesting to those who are interested in New Zealand.
I gave this book one star less than all the other books written by this author - there is nothing wrong with the story, I just didn't find the 'love interest' to be quite so captivating as in the other books, so I was a little less hooked on the story having a happy ending. But many others will, I am sure, disagree!
I gave this book one star less than all the other books written by this author - there is nothing wrong with the story, I just didn't find the 'love interest' to be quite so captivating as in the other books, so I was a little less hooked on the story having a happy ending. But many others will, I am sure, disagree!
January 31, 2021
So so so so so good! A little heat and a whole lot of sweet! I loved Mac and Shasa, so much chemistry. Some moral dilemmas sure but they both handled themselves like adults and with grace. A truly wonderful story
Thank you for the ARC, I always enjoy reading and reviewing.
Thank you for the ARC, I always enjoy reading and reviewing.
March 11, 2021
Shasa is a single mother trying to make ends meet, living in a rundown rental home filled with second-hand furniture. When a property developer shows up on her doorstep to inspect her untidy house, she is ashamed to let this expensively dressed handsome man in the door. But worse is the information he let's slip that the owner is going to sell and make her homeless. Mac is just doing his job, inspecting the property for sale. But he finds himself drawn to this bleeding heart hippie woman and her adorable little girl. But when Shasa uses the information he gave her to put in a competitive bid, their attraction becomes complicated. Can either one win without losing each other in the process?
I loved the characters in this book! Strong, confident Shasa just trying to make things better for herself and her daughter, and Mac, rich guy arrogant on the outside but sensitive and loving. I love Audrey Hepburn movies, so the fact that they're auditioning for parts in Roman Holiday was really cool and inspired me to pop the dvd in and watch it again! After reading that scene I was picturing Shasa as Audrey. This is such a happy, feel-good story!
I received a free copy of this book through BookSirens. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I loved the characters in this book! Strong, confident Shasa just trying to make things better for herself and her daughter, and Mac, rich guy arrogant on the outside but sensitive and loving. I love Audrey Hepburn movies, so the fact that they're auditioning for parts in Roman Holiday was really cool and inspired me to pop the dvd in and watch it again! After reading that scene I was picturing Shasa as Audrey. This is such a happy, feel-good story!
I received a free copy of this book through BookSirens. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
May 19, 2021
The Saga of the Eco-Warrior & the Yuppie
Nest or Invest is one of those laugh-out-loud comedies you find in the most unexpected places. A yuppie and an eco-warrior — could you find a more mismatched pair? But both characters have much more to lose than just their hearts. How could they possibly put aside their huge differences enough to see eye to eye?
The Opening
The opening is great, introducing the main characters and the main conflict. The first chapter has some hilarious moments and a great hook.
The Characters
Being abandoned with a toddler by a man who cares more about his passions than his family instantly makes Shasa a sympathetic character. I was a little surprised that Mac didn’t make fun of her for being Bridget Jones‘ quirky best friend given how similar the names and personality are and him being a big fan of romantic comedies. I loved her Shirley-Valentine-esque character development arc as she frees herself from the semi-self-imposed chains and branches out.
Mac is great. I love his backstory. I thought his interaction with his best friend at the end were a little extreme for him, but otherwise I enjoyed his character development. I especially liked his interaction with Lilla from the very beginning. When she picked up her mom’s unmentionables in the first chapter, I laughed out loud.
So, it may already be obvious that Lilla is my favorite character. She’s uber sweet and clearly has great taste because she’s obsessed with unicorns of all shapes and SIZES. I share her passion.
Elise is arguably the most complex character, and her midpoint crisis moment was fascinating. I won’t say any more due to spoilers, but I liked her very much.
The Plot
The plot follows two popular tropes — the enemies to lovers trope and the single parent trope. To a lesser extent, it also follows the second chance romance trope. However, the conflict is much greater in this rom-com than most. Both characters stand to lose their homes and end up in financial hardship if the other gets their way.
There were some nice twists and turns along the way, and I was generally happy with the resolution. However, there was one big issue that wasn’t resolved to my satisfaction.
It’s not good to start a long-term relationship with a dark hidden secret. Toward the end of this novel, one of the protagonists has a big secret, but they never reveal it to the other.
As I neared the end, I expected this issue (which I can’t explain more due to spoilers) would become a last minute pinch to add extra action to the ending. Instead, it was conveniently forgotten.
The Setting
This is actually the first book I’ve read set in New Zealand. I’m a big fan of John Marsden, so I’ve read his Tomorrow series that ventures into New Zealand and includes major Kiwi characters, but this is the first novel I’ve read that is entirely based on the North Island.
The bad condition of the housing was well shown in the opening chapters as well as the socioeconomic situation in NZ. However, as an outsider, I would have liked a few more details that let me know I wasn’t in Kansas anymore.
I’m specifically referring to any local wildlife that doesn’t exist outside of the area or architectural styles. Maybe a Mauri character or a building development given an indigenous name. Anything that lets me imagine a different world to the one I know.
Given that this area has significant cultural and historical ties to the Invasion of the Waikato and several towns around Hamilton retain their Mauri names, the lack of any Mauri place names or references was surprising.
The Prose
I have no complaints about the prose. The narrative was immersive, and the story was successfully shown rather than told. Everything that happened was crystal clear. There were a lot of nice jokes and some situation comedy.
My Opinion
Overall, I loved this book. It kept me turning the pages, and I laughed in all the right places. There were some sweet romantic moments, too. However, I did feel that one important issue was left unresolved, and there could have been a bit more Kiwi in the setting. So, I’m going to rate this book 4 out of 5.
Notice:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nest or Invest is one of those laugh-out-loud comedies you find in the most unexpected places. A yuppie and an eco-warrior — could you find a more mismatched pair? But both characters have much more to lose than just their hearts. How could they possibly put aside their huge differences enough to see eye to eye?
The Opening
The opening is great, introducing the main characters and the main conflict. The first chapter has some hilarious moments and a great hook.
The Characters
Being abandoned with a toddler by a man who cares more about his passions than his family instantly makes Shasa a sympathetic character. I was a little surprised that Mac didn’t make fun of her for being Bridget Jones‘ quirky best friend given how similar the names and personality are and him being a big fan of romantic comedies. I loved her Shirley-Valentine-esque character development arc as she frees herself from the semi-self-imposed chains and branches out.
Mac is great. I love his backstory. I thought his interaction with his best friend at the end were a little extreme for him, but otherwise I enjoyed his character development. I especially liked his interaction with Lilla from the very beginning. When she picked up her mom’s unmentionables in the first chapter, I laughed out loud.
So, it may already be obvious that Lilla is my favorite character. She’s uber sweet and clearly has great taste because she’s obsessed with unicorns of all shapes and SIZES. I share her passion.
Elise is arguably the most complex character, and her midpoint crisis moment was fascinating. I won’t say any more due to spoilers, but I liked her very much.
The Plot
The plot follows two popular tropes — the enemies to lovers trope and the single parent trope. To a lesser extent, it also follows the second chance romance trope. However, the conflict is much greater in this rom-com than most. Both characters stand to lose their homes and end up in financial hardship if the other gets their way.
There were some nice twists and turns along the way, and I was generally happy with the resolution. However, there was one big issue that wasn’t resolved to my satisfaction.
It’s not good to start a long-term relationship with a dark hidden secret. Toward the end of this novel, one of the protagonists has a big secret, but they never reveal it to the other.
As I neared the end, I expected this issue (which I can’t explain more due to spoilers) would become a last minute pinch to add extra action to the ending. Instead, it was conveniently forgotten.
The Setting
This is actually the first book I’ve read set in New Zealand. I’m a big fan of John Marsden, so I’ve read his Tomorrow series that ventures into New Zealand and includes major Kiwi characters, but this is the first novel I’ve read that is entirely based on the North Island.
The bad condition of the housing was well shown in the opening chapters as well as the socioeconomic situation in NZ. However, as an outsider, I would have liked a few more details that let me know I wasn’t in Kansas anymore.
I’m specifically referring to any local wildlife that doesn’t exist outside of the area or architectural styles. Maybe a Mauri character or a building development given an indigenous name. Anything that lets me imagine a different world to the one I know.
Given that this area has significant cultural and historical ties to the Invasion of the Waikato and several towns around Hamilton retain their Mauri names, the lack of any Mauri place names or references was surprising.
The Prose
I have no complaints about the prose. The narrative was immersive, and the story was successfully shown rather than told. Everything that happened was crystal clear. There were a lot of nice jokes and some situation comedy.
My Opinion
Overall, I loved this book. It kept me turning the pages, and I laughed in all the right places. There were some sweet romantic moments, too. However, I did feel that one important issue was left unresolved, and there could have been a bit more Kiwi in the setting. So, I’m going to rate this book 4 out of 5.
Notice:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 16, 2021
Shasa is interrupted as she is taking a much needed break while her daughter naps. Not only is there an unwelcome realtor at her door, but he woke up her daughter. She finally gets the information out of him that that the owner was looking to sell to a developer to build some townhouses. To make her day worse she finally opened the email from her partner, Lilla's father, only to find out he wasn't returning from his time with Greenpeace. Not that he had been bad in two years. She headed for her scissors and started into her dreadlocks. She only had them for him. Time for a new me.
Mac was offered a partnership as a property developer 3 years ago and was so glad to not be managing properties any longer. Getting the owner to sell the property with the neglected villa would do wonders for him. It wasn't really scamming the owner not letting him in on the land possibilities and he couldn't let one woman, no matter how cute, derail his plans. Shasa and her best friend decided to build cohousing townhouses. They just needed 3 more investors before approaching the bank.
I love the diversity of characters in this book. People who wouldn't meet in normal circumstances working towards the same goal. The storyline takes a few surprising curves, everything worked out in the end. There is laughter, guilt, betrayal, love and sex. Highly recommend!
Mac was offered a partnership as a property developer 3 years ago and was so glad to not be managing properties any longer. Getting the owner to sell the property with the neglected villa would do wonders for him. It wasn't really scamming the owner not letting him in on the land possibilities and he couldn't let one woman, no matter how cute, derail his plans. Shasa and her best friend decided to build cohousing townhouses. They just needed 3 more investors before approaching the bank.
I love the diversity of characters in this book. People who wouldn't meet in normal circumstances working towards the same goal. The storyline takes a few surprising curves, everything worked out in the end. There is laughter, guilt, betrayal, love and sex. Highly recommend!
April 1, 2022
One word, Phenomenal!
No word of a lie, this book is brilliant, and I fell in love with the entire cast.
I could happily write an essay about each character and why I love them so much, but alas, I won’t spoil anything for you.
This review will be short and sweet, not because I’m lazy, but because I need to start book two asap!!! Lol.
On a semi-serious note, this is one of the best books I’ve ever read.
I am not a person who can sit down and read a book in one sitting, but with Nest or Invest, I came very close.
The second I put it down, I immediately wanted to pick it up again.
I could not get enough of Shasa, Mac, Elsie, Marnie, and the adorable Lilla. Lilla is cuteness overload.
This book completely encapsulates what a Romcom/Chick-Lit should be.
I cannot wait to read Book two Hidden Gem and then the new release, Night and Day (book three).
Night and Day is out today. You can read it as a standalone, but I recommend reading the complete series.
Enni Amanda is a new favourite and an instant buy/read.
No word of a lie, this book is brilliant, and I fell in love with the entire cast.
I could happily write an essay about each character and why I love them so much, but alas, I won’t spoil anything for you.
This review will be short and sweet, not because I’m lazy, but because I need to start book two asap!!! Lol.
On a semi-serious note, this is one of the best books I’ve ever read.
I am not a person who can sit down and read a book in one sitting, but with Nest or Invest, I came very close.
The second I put it down, I immediately wanted to pick it up again.
I could not get enough of Shasa, Mac, Elsie, Marnie, and the adorable Lilla. Lilla is cuteness overload.
This book completely encapsulates what a Romcom/Chick-Lit should be.
I cannot wait to read Book two Hidden Gem and then the new release, Night and Day (book three).
Night and Day is out today. You can read it as a standalone, but I recommend reading the complete series.
Enni Amanda is a new favourite and an instant buy/read.
May 16, 2021
Shasa is interrupted as she is taking a much needed break while her daughter naps. Not only is there an unwelcome realtor at her door, but he woke up her daughter. She finally gets the information out of him that that the owner was looking to sell to a developer to build some townhouses. To make her day worse she finally opened the email from her partner, Lilla's father, only to find out he wasn't returning from his time with Greenpeace. Not that he had been bad in two years. She headed for her scissors and started into her dreadlocks. She only had them for him. Time for a new me.
Mac was offered a partnership as a property developer 3 years ago and was so glad to not be managing properties any longer. Getting the owner to sell the property with the neglected villa would do wonders for him. It wasn't really scamming the owner not letting him in on the land possibilities and he couldn't let one woman, no matter how cute, derail his plans. Shasa and her best friend decided to build cohousing townhouses. They just needed 3 more investors before approaching the bank.
I love the diversity of characters in this book. People who wouldn't meet in normal circumstances working towards the same goal. The storyline takes a few surprising curves, everything worked out in the end. There is laughter, guilt, betrayal, love and sex. Highly recommend!
Mac was offered a partnership as a property developer 3 years ago and was so glad to not be managing properties any longer. Getting the owner to sell the property with the neglected villa would do wonders for him. It wasn't really scamming the owner not letting him in on the land possibilities and he couldn't let one woman, no matter how cute, derail his plans. Shasa and her best friend decided to build cohousing townhouses. They just needed 3 more investors before approaching the bank.
I love the diversity of characters in this book. People who wouldn't meet in normal circumstances working towards the same goal. The storyline takes a few surprising curves, everything worked out in the end. There is laughter, guilt, betrayal, love and sex. Highly recommend!
February 20, 2021
This book was such a surprise, a nice one and I love enemies-to-lovers. First of all the cover is so pretty and I loved how easy the story was to read. A nice touch was the location of the story-New Zealand and the idea behind the story itself. Shasa is not a normal heroine and that is the whole charm behind her. I liked her with all her quirks, same as with Mac. What was really heartwarming were the moments between Mac and Lilla.
This book has lots of nice touches that I haven't found in other books before.
I received this book as an ARC. Thank you Enni Amanda for the chance to read this cute book
This book has lots of nice touches that I haven't found in other books before.
I received this book as an ARC. Thank you Enni Amanda for the chance to read this cute book
February 1, 2021
The set-up is refreshing and modern : no old high school flames nor billionary bosses. A husband who prefers Greenpeace to his family was a nice modern touch. I was little apprehensive about the “opposites attract” theme but it was well-managed, not given undue heavy emphasis.
The main characters were believable and the secondary ones - Shasa friends and Mac’s family and friends - were well-developed, not just simple props to the main story. The scenes with “more heat” or “smutty bits” were few and not that daring so even the more prudent readers should not be shocked.
I felt that the theatre project did not quite fit in, maybe because it was left “hanging” there in the sidelines, after being an important activity in the plot.
All in all, nice easy reading, many times chuckling at some clever remarks and descriptions.
The main characters were believable and the secondary ones - Shasa friends and Mac’s family and friends - were well-developed, not just simple props to the main story. The scenes with “more heat” or “smutty bits” were few and not that daring so even the more prudent readers should not be shocked.
I felt that the theatre project did not quite fit in, maybe because it was left “hanging” there in the sidelines, after being an important activity in the plot.
All in all, nice easy reading, many times chuckling at some clever remarks and descriptions.
October 26, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Honestly, my main critique of this book is that I just wanted more. I love an enemies to lovers slow burn and I think the book could have focused more solely on the relationship between Shasa and Mac with less distractions from Elsie's storyline. I felt a bit confused when we started focusing so much on Elsie within the book. I did love the heat between Shasa and Mac as well as his relationship with Shasa's daughter. I just wanted to see more heat and more emotional turmoil with the main characters. I still very much enjoyed the read and flew through it.
Honestly, my main critique of this book is that I just wanted more. I love an enemies to lovers slow burn and I think the book could have focused more solely on the relationship between Shasa and Mac with less distractions from Elsie's storyline. I felt a bit confused when we started focusing so much on Elsie within the book. I did love the heat between Shasa and Mac as well as his relationship with Shasa's daughter. I just wanted to see more heat and more emotional turmoil with the main characters. I still very much enjoyed the read and flew through it.
June 16, 2023
Love enemies to lovers? This one's for you!
I really enjoyed this quirky New Zealand romance, and read it in one sitting while my housework and washing-pile languished. This is the first full book of Ennei Amanda's I've read (I found her via a free Christmas novella), but it definitely won't be the last. Every now and again you stumble across a new writer who ticks all the boxes. Snappy dialogue, relatable characters, believable backstory, and the fact her work is set in my homeland and rings true is a real bonus!
I really enjoyed this quirky New Zealand romance, and read it in one sitting while my housework and washing-pile languished. This is the first full book of Ennei Amanda's I've read (I found her via a free Christmas novella), but it definitely won't be the last. Every now and again you stumble across a new writer who ticks all the boxes. Snappy dialogue, relatable characters, believable backstory, and the fact her work is set in my homeland and rings true is a real bonus!
February 4, 2021
What a delightful book! So deliciously complex, with a community of quirky characters you will fall in love with. This is a fun, fast-paced, nuanced story layered with real world issues, real human characters and relationship issues, in turns sweet, funny, steamy and serious. I absolutely adored this story about boho Shasa and ambitious Mac and their circle of family and friends in Hamilton, New Zealand. The place came alive under the author's sensitive pen. I felt like I not only had visited this place but wanted to live there along with these charming characters. I look forward to BFF Marnie's story next! Don't miss out on this lovely read.
February 8, 2021
The first book in the Love New Zealand series a well written story that held my interest throughout. Single mum Shasa Daniels, her daughter Lilla, and Mac McCarthy's story as they go from enemies to lovers. There will only be one drawback and that will be Ollie her ex. This is a new Author to me. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2021
As a huge fan of romantic comedy, I was excited to read this story. The first book in a new series set in New Zealand, this book is well written and interesting enough to hold my attention for the entirety. Shasa is a single mom who's just found out her long-term boyfriend is leaving her and her landlord is selling the property she lives in. Her solution is to start a cohousing community on the site and purchase the property from the owner instead of letting the developer - enemy-turned-love-interest Mac, buy it from under her and leave her and her child homeless. The story flowed well and the characters were well-developed. I expected a bit more humor, but the characters were complex and sweet and worth getting to know. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for solid writing, lighthearted fun, dynamic character development and a HEA.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2021
This is a different enemies to lovers story with a lot of different layers that keep the reader engaged...Sasha is the stereotypical "rent-poor environmentally conscious" tenant with an adorable daughter looking to improve their lot while Mac is the "slum-lord" looking to make more money. Of course neither stereotype is quite true, their chemistry is off the charts, they keep getting thrown together and it all makes for a fun romp with depth. I can't wait for the next in the series...
August 28, 2021
Absolutely loved this story. Great romance, with an opposites attract undertone. Beautifully written, with full and interesting characters. Every time I read about Shasa, Mac, Marnie, Elise and all the other characters, I could see each of them so clearly, and loved to know more about how their lives will turn out. I cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series to see what happens next.
September 3, 2021
This was a cute enemies to lovers HEA. It was a great start to what I hope is a series of wonderful love stories. All of the characters we met need their own story! My favorite line came from Elise: How did single people make friends at her age?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2021
I received this book through Voraciousreaders. Being a kiwi I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story about a young single mum and a property developer who wants to buy her rented home.The relationship between the two main characters develops with the story. I also enjoyed the peripheral relationships from the other characters that were each interwoven throughout.
February 18, 2021
This was a fun romance to read. Where you knew they were going to end up together, but kept wondering how.
June 20, 2021
Really enjoyed the story of Mac and Shasa, well written with a great storyline. Will definitely read more by Enni Amanda.
I received a complementary copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only.
I received a complementary copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only.
June 15, 2021
Very enjoyable read, quick start and slow burn throughout the book for the main 2 people. I do like that it is in more than the 2 main characters pov showing the issues some face when trying to help when having been privlidged most there life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2021
Thank you Voracious Readers for providing me with this copy of the book, and now with that being said, let’s get into the review! :)
Well, I’ll say this first. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions, but a rollercoaster nevertheless. Let’s break it down.
The beginning. I guess you could say I had a bit of a rocky start with this book. Our first approach to the main character being rude and short to the other main character… I mean, sure, it’s an enemies to lovers, but it felt like the initial annoyance of both characters towards each other was too quick. It made me not like Shasa at first and worry that this book would not be what I expected, but it was the first chapter so obviously, I just kept on reading.
Luckily, in the following chapters, we get to see a different side of Shasa, a side that we can root for, and then we are introduced to the character of Mac through his POV chapter. Mac on the other hand, is introduced as a sort of underdog trying to become part one of the big fish in the world of New Zealand real estate and I liked him right away. I really enjoyed his chapters, but I wish that he had as many chapters as Shasa.
The middle of the book, approximately after the first 15-ish% is when the book started to go up for me. This is when it becomes a full-on romantic comedy and of course, where I started to root for the 2 main characters. Luckily, we don’t have to root for long, which I found pretty refreshing and only made me enjoy the book even more. By the time I reached 30-40% I was definitely hooked and devouring this story, wanting to know how this bidding war would end and feeling conflicted as to who to root for, and wondering what kind of plot twist the author had under their sleeve to give both characters their happy ending.
And speaking of characters, well, by now you know that I really enjoyed both Shasa and Mac and their love/hate relationship. I mean, I’ll admit that it was a wee bit love at first sight with a little sprinkle of doubt because of their many differences, but love at first sight nonetheless… but I really liked them so I was able to ignore that. The rest of the cast include Shasa’s best friend Marnie, who… does what is required of her, she’s the best friend. Apparently her love story, which was slightly mentioned in this book has a book of its own so that’s pretty cool. There’s Mac’s parents, who I wish I could’ve seen more of. Shasa’s daughter who… is there, and likes unicorns. And Elsie… who I didn’t really love as she felt very deux-ex-machina-ish, and she had some POV chapters which weren’t really necessary in my opinion.
But anyways, back to the thing we’re all here for, the romance. I really enjoyed the chemistry between both characters. Even though we can’t see them, we can still feel it. It didn’t feel insanely cheesy, just the right amount of cheesy, and there are some really funny scenes. I thought the pacing was acceptable… until the last 10 or so chapters.
The conclusion. The last couple of chapters felt very rushed to me. The initial gets solved without too much of a fight, so they brought a new conflict for like 5 chapters and then they solved that pretty easily as well, so… no plot twist, I guess. Finally, there was a scene at the epilogue that had me rolling my eyes… in both the good and bad way (if that makes sense), which didn’t really add to the end of this wild roller coaster.
But like everyone says, what matters is the journey, and I certainly enjoyed my journey.
Well, I’ll say this first. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions, but a rollercoaster nevertheless. Let’s break it down.
The beginning. I guess you could say I had a bit of a rocky start with this book. Our first approach to the main character being rude and short to the other main character… I mean, sure, it’s an enemies to lovers, but it felt like the initial annoyance of both characters towards each other was too quick. It made me not like Shasa at first and worry that this book would not be what I expected, but it was the first chapter so obviously, I just kept on reading.
Luckily, in the following chapters, we get to see a different side of Shasa, a side that we can root for, and then we are introduced to the character of Mac through his POV chapter. Mac on the other hand, is introduced as a sort of underdog trying to become part one of the big fish in the world of New Zealand real estate and I liked him right away. I really enjoyed his chapters, but I wish that he had as many chapters as Shasa.
The middle of the book, approximately after the first 15-ish% is when the book started to go up for me. This is when it becomes a full-on romantic comedy and of course, where I started to root for the 2 main characters. Luckily, we don’t have to root for long, which I found pretty refreshing and only made me enjoy the book even more. By the time I reached 30-40% I was definitely hooked and devouring this story, wanting to know how this bidding war would end and feeling conflicted as to who to root for, and wondering what kind of plot twist the author had under their sleeve to give both characters their happy ending.
And speaking of characters, well, by now you know that I really enjoyed both Shasa and Mac and their love/hate relationship. I mean, I’ll admit that it was a wee bit love at first sight with a little sprinkle of doubt because of their many differences, but love at first sight nonetheless… but I really liked them so I was able to ignore that. The rest of the cast include Shasa’s best friend Marnie, who… does what is required of her, she’s the best friend. Apparently her love story, which was slightly mentioned in this book has a book of its own so that’s pretty cool. There’s Mac’s parents, who I wish I could’ve seen more of. Shasa’s daughter who… is there, and likes unicorns. And Elsie… who I didn’t really love as she felt very deux-ex-machina-ish, and she had some POV chapters which weren’t really necessary in my opinion.
But anyways, back to the thing we’re all here for, the romance. I really enjoyed the chemistry between both characters. Even though we can’t see them, we can still feel it. It didn’t feel insanely cheesy, just the right amount of cheesy, and there are some really funny scenes. I thought the pacing was acceptable… until the last 10 or so chapters.
The conclusion. The last couple of chapters felt very rushed to me. The initial gets solved without too much of a fight, so they brought a new conflict for like 5 chapters and then they solved that pretty easily as well, so… no plot twist, I guess. Finally, there was a scene at the epilogue that had me rolling my eyes… in both the good and bad way (if that makes sense), which didn’t really add to the end of this wild roller coaster.
But like everyone says, what matters is the journey, and I certainly enjoyed my journey.
June 4, 2021
I really liked this story & didn’t want to leave this little book universe when it ended. It has great lead characters, as well as a fun group of secondary ones.
The first chapters that describe the huge burdens Shasa is carrying alone are heartbreaking. Such a good description of a mother’s love in the middle of a difficult time.
Mac is a kind-hearted man trying so hard to aspire to what he considers MORE. Shasa thinks Mac represents all the things she hates about the rich & greedy, until she gets to know him. When they realize their real estate goals are directly opposed, it made it truly hard for me to guess how things could ever turn out okay between them in the end.
Side note: not being from NZ, I liked learning some new terms I wasn’t familiar with before!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The first chapters that describe the huge burdens Shasa is carrying alone are heartbreaking. Such a good description of a mother’s love in the middle of a difficult time.
Mac is a kind-hearted man trying so hard to aspire to what he considers MORE. Shasa thinks Mac represents all the things she hates about the rich & greedy, until she gets to know him. When they realize their real estate goals are directly opposed, it made it truly hard for me to guess how things could ever turn out okay between them in the end.
Side note: not being from NZ, I liked learning some new terms I wasn’t familiar with before!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 12, 2022
There is so much I liked about this one. The characters, Shasa and Mac were likable and relatable. I loved the co-housing storyline and the entire idea behind it. The side characters, Marnie and Elsie added to the story. I was rooting just as hard for Elsie to get an HEA as I was for Shasa and Mac!
I’m a big believer in a book saying something, and this one does so perfectly. Subjects such as capitalism, sustainability, community, friendship, aging. All of these are touched on. And not once did it feel like the author was venturing into soapbox territory.
The writing was good, but I did lose focus a few times due to the amount of detail included. There was so much emphasis put on Shasa’s style choices that sometimes sentences seemed to get lost with details of her clothing items and hairstyles.
Still, all in all this is a solid book. This was my first read from the author, but it won’t be the last. I’m looking forward to reading Marnie’s story!
I received an ARC of this book for free. I’m voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
I’m a big believer in a book saying something, and this one does so perfectly. Subjects such as capitalism, sustainability, community, friendship, aging. All of these are touched on. And not once did it feel like the author was venturing into soapbox territory.
The writing was good, but I did lose focus a few times due to the amount of detail included. There was so much emphasis put on Shasa’s style choices that sometimes sentences seemed to get lost with details of her clothing items and hairstyles.
Still, all in all this is a solid book. This was my first read from the author, but it won’t be the last. I’m looking forward to reading Marnie’s story!
I received an ARC of this book for free. I’m voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
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