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Love New Zealand #2
Hidden Gem
A politician on the verge of a breakdown. A woman who's given up on love. Can they save each other?
Burnt by divorce and newly diagnosed with chronic illness, Marnie resigns herself to a lifetime of loneliness. Tea. Blankets. A remote cabin. But fate intervenes, thrusting
her into a whirlwind Cinderella story.
Rising political superstar Jason is on a mission to fix New Zealand's housing crisis. If only he could sleep. As insomnia starts to threaten his health and sanity, hope enters his life in the shape of a woman. As if by magic, she restores everything. His sleep. His career. His sex drive.
Then she vanishes.
Jason is prepared to scour New Zealand to find her. But as he falls for the woman of his dreams (pun intended), he discovers how much really stands in the way of their happily ever after.
Tough questions about ageing, illness and self-worth are examined in this steamy romantic comedy that will leave you with a warm glow.
____
This book can be read as a standalone.
Burnt by divorce and newly diagnosed with chronic illness, Marnie resigns herself to a lifetime of loneliness. Tea. Blankets. A remote cabin. But fate intervenes, thrusting
her into a whirlwind Cinderella story.
Rising political superstar Jason is on a mission to fix New Zealand's housing crisis. If only he could sleep. As insomnia starts to threaten his health and sanity, hope enters his life in the shape of a woman. As if by magic, she restores everything. His sleep. His career. His sex drive.
Then she vanishes.
Jason is prepared to scour New Zealand to find her. But as he falls for the woman of his dreams (pun intended), he discovers how much really stands in the way of their happily ever after.
Tough questions about ageing, illness and self-worth are examined in this steamy romantic comedy that will leave you with a warm glow.
____
This book can be read as a standalone.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 28, 2021
9 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Enni Amanda
16 books208 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 47 reviews
August 15, 2021
The story
Marnie is 39, a divorced mother of two who works in the community centre and writes romance novels in her spare time. She dresses in baggy clothes and does feel like she has much to give anymore. And she has just been diagnosed with early onset arthritis, which doesn’t help her self esteem. When she is invited by her son Tom to an art award at the New Zealand parliament, the Beehive, Marnie meets Jason. He is a politician working on the housing portfolio. There is instant attraction. Unfortunately Jason’s celebrity popularity doesn’t help and neither does Marnie’s lack of self esteem.
My thoughts
This is the second book in Enni Amanda’s Love New Zealand series and I loved reading this one as much as I did the first in the series. I just have to laugh how age is always so relative. At 39 I also felt “old” and can identify with the receding fertility experienced at this age. At 47, I feel like 39 is “so young still”. When the older character in this book steps in with her words of wisdom to put things into perspective for Marnie, I had to agree. This is fabulous story! ❤️
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for the advance copy to read and review!
Marnie is 39, a divorced mother of two who works in the community centre and writes romance novels in her spare time. She dresses in baggy clothes and does feel like she has much to give anymore. And she has just been diagnosed with early onset arthritis, which doesn’t help her self esteem. When she is invited by her son Tom to an art award at the New Zealand parliament, the Beehive, Marnie meets Jason. He is a politician working on the housing portfolio. There is instant attraction. Unfortunately Jason’s celebrity popularity doesn’t help and neither does Marnie’s lack of self esteem.
My thoughts
This is the second book in Enni Amanda’s Love New Zealand series and I loved reading this one as much as I did the first in the series. I just have to laugh how age is always so relative. At 39 I also felt “old” and can identify with the receding fertility experienced at this age. At 47, I feel like 39 is “so young still”. When the older character in this book steps in with her words of wisdom to put things into perspective for Marnie, I had to agree. This is fabulous story! ❤️
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for the advance copy to read and review!
March 23, 2023
Just like the first one this was fun and sweet but nothing too special in my opinion. I just didn’t connect with it I guess and didn’t fall in love with them individually or together but it was cute. The main character could definitely be annoying at times because of how much she talks about being too old (at 39) and how she is “expired”. Other than that I liked how the story is deep and the characters have their own issues to deal with but find each other. It was also really fun to catch up with the characters from the first book
Just the first chapter has references to tiktok and influencers and I just personally don’t love reading about that
Just the first chapter has references to tiktok and influencers and I just personally don’t love reading about that
April 2, 2022
Enni has done it again with another adorable chick-lit.
We met the beautiful Marnie in book 1, Nest or Invest, and she was the strong, supportive best friend in Hidden Gem Marnie shows the other side of herself. She is self-conscious, has low self-esteem, and is vulnerable and I, for one, love seeing this side of her. I relate more to Marnie, probably because I’m 39 (and feel old), have a moody teenager, have health problems, and cannot look at myself and see a person who might be desirable to another.
I need, or should I say want, the people she has in her life. I want to hear those wise words spoken to me. I want to feel loved and wanted to the point that the person cannot sleep unless I’m there, so this story gives me a little hope, and that might sound silly, but that is the power of a great book!
Due to my relationship status, I got teary a few times. Yes, it is another silly moment for me, but surely everyone dreams of having someone look at them how Jason looks at Marnie?
Anyway, I loved this book (maybe a little more than the first because I relate better) and diving straight into book 3, Night & Day.
We met the beautiful Marnie in book 1, Nest or Invest, and she was the strong, supportive best friend in Hidden Gem Marnie shows the other side of herself. She is self-conscious, has low self-esteem, and is vulnerable and I, for one, love seeing this side of her. I relate more to Marnie, probably because I’m 39 (and feel old), have a moody teenager, have health problems, and cannot look at myself and see a person who might be desirable to another.
I need, or should I say want, the people she has in her life. I want to hear those wise words spoken to me. I want to feel loved and wanted to the point that the person cannot sleep unless I’m there, so this story gives me a little hope, and that might sound silly, but that is the power of a great book!
Due to my relationship status, I got teary a few times. Yes, it is another silly moment for me, but surely everyone dreams of having someone look at them how Jason looks at Marnie?
Anyway, I loved this book (maybe a little more than the first because I relate better) and diving straight into book 3, Night & Day.
August 13, 2021
Hidden Gem is a modern romance set in New Zealand and the author has included many of the current political issues into the book . Marnie is struggling to cope with a medical diagnosis she has received , is a mother of 2 and is driving to a remote cabin for a well earned break when she receives a message from her son Tom which changes her plans. He has had artwork chosen for display at The Beehive in Wellington and hopes she is able to attend the gala event with him. She has not attended an event such as this since her divorce and she is naturally apprehensive, but the evening includes some twists and turns which bring changes to her life . Meeting Jason she is soon absorbed into a journey of passion , as well as a political scandal , but Jason also has his own challenges, battling a sleep disorder which causes issues for them both.
This is the second book in the Love in New Zealand series but I had not read the earlier book and found this was not a disadvantage . I enjoyed reading about a part of the country I am not familiar with, and felt the author had created well rounded strong characters.
I was grateful to receive an ARC e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a cosy romance
This is the second book in the Love in New Zealand series but I had not read the earlier book and found this was not a disadvantage . I enjoyed reading about a part of the country I am not familiar with, and felt the author had created well rounded strong characters.
I was grateful to receive an ARC e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a cosy romance
August 28, 2021
A gem of a story
Take a misguided woman who can barely look beyond her perceived flaws, add a ill-advised man who battles with his conscience, mix in some political intrigue, and supportive friends in a great setting, and you end up with a fantastic story.
Marnie is the kind of friend you want to wrap your arms around and reassure by saying, "Honestly, girl, at 39, you're still a spring chicken". Her struggles are very relatable and it's great to see her grow as the story progresses. Jason is a swoon-worthy hero who battles to sleep as he tries to do the right thing. Together, they make a dynamic duo that you root for all the way.
Kudos to the author for putting together a stellar cast of characters, and an awesome setting (I loved the lighthouse and could picture it clearly) in what is a real page-turner.
Take a misguided woman who can barely look beyond her perceived flaws, add a ill-advised man who battles with his conscience, mix in some political intrigue, and supportive friends in a great setting, and you end up with a fantastic story.
Marnie is the kind of friend you want to wrap your arms around and reassure by saying, "Honestly, girl, at 39, you're still a spring chicken". Her struggles are very relatable and it's great to see her grow as the story progresses. Jason is a swoon-worthy hero who battles to sleep as he tries to do the right thing. Together, they make a dynamic duo that you root for all the way.
Kudos to the author for putting together a stellar cast of characters, and an awesome setting (I loved the lighthouse and could picture it clearly) in what is a real page-turner.
February 2, 2022
The writer is trying to hard. The first chapter has influencers, tiktok and political correctness. The second chapter has the housing crisis and cryptocururrency investing. In addition, simple details are wrong. It is six hours drive from Hamilton to Paraparaumu not four as stated, this is easily googleable. There are no cinnamon pancake sellers fot late night drinkers in Wellington (it should have said kebab shop). And at 1:30am, there is no traffic to keep anyone awake at night assuming that the serviced apartment fits not have double glazing. Too many glaring errors to read further.
February 12, 2022
I loved Marnie when she was introduced in Enni Amanda's earlier novel, Nest or Invest (also fabulous). In Hidden Gem we see the flaws and all side of approaching forty, with an incurable illness, a stroppy teenage child and the gift of love, in the form of Jason, a bit of an insomniac. Sweet romance, brilliantly told, against the backdrop of a housing crisis, in New Zealand (though also happens elsewhere in the world).
Hidden Gem is a seriously honest and delightful second-chance romance that you need to read, once you've read Nest or Invest (that improv scene will floor you!).
I'm off to pop book 3 on pre-order.
Hidden Gem is a seriously honest and delightful second-chance romance that you need to read, once you've read Nest or Invest (that improv scene will floor you!).
I'm off to pop book 3 on pre-order.
August 11, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this story, Marnie and Jason were both super sweet, easy characters to like and root for. The book was well written and easy to follow. I thoroughly enjoy a contemporary romance set in New Zealand as it’s easy to relate to and imagine the places the characters find themselves. Will recommend to my friends!
I really liked this story, Marnie and Jason were both super sweet, easy characters to like and root for. The book was well written and easy to follow. I thoroughly enjoy a contemporary romance set in New Zealand as it’s easy to relate to and imagine the places the characters find themselves. Will recommend to my friends!
August 16, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I do enjoy reading this author! The characters in this book are sweet and believable. I also enjoyed "catching up" with characters from the first book in this series. Although you would not have to have read the first book to enjoy this book. I recommend this book if you want to read about some characters that are having a rough go in life but are able to find each other and love.
August 17, 2021
Marnie & Jason's story is sweet, steamy, and very real-to-life. No spoilers here though! There are times I'm not sure what will happen to these two, if a happy ever after is even possible. There's so much I highlighted ~ from inspiring words to practical advice. The writing is excellent. My first time reading this author and I'm very glad I found her. Now I need to read book 1 of the series!
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2021
An enjoyable read - I don't normally read romance books, but this author sets her tales in New Zealand, which does make them interesting to me. Each book is a standalone, although the people in this one are linked to those in the previous book, but they do seem to cover different areas of life, which makes them fascinating. I particularly enjoyed this one, as an older woman finds a new love interest, rather than being focussed on younger people.
August 10, 2021
A sexy/sweet romance with a Cinderella twist. Book 2 in the Love New Zealand series so we get to see the return of some favorite characters. I’m happy to be on the ARC team for this author and her works. I always enjoy reading her books and willingly submit honest reviews.
August 16, 2021
I loved this story about Marnie and Jason. Two people in their late 30's meet by chance. Jason a politician and Marnie a teacher who has been diagnosed with arthritis. The chemisty of the two make a steamy romance
August 17, 2021
Really enjoyed this heart warming story of a 39 yo divorced mother and slightly younger man finding a way through doubt, anxiety and stress to reclaiming their sense of self. Recieved as a complimentary review copy from the author in return for an honest review.
August 22, 2021
This is a sweet rom com with strong characters in Marnie and Jason. It's an older woman/younger man romance with Marnie battling arthritis and Jason and his insomnia , finding one another and love along the way. It's a mature adult romance and is an entertaining read with her teenage daughter and friends helping them along.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
August 10, 2021
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is the story of Marnie and Jason and their journey to find each other and love. I really enjoyed the characters and their story. It was well-written and I loved losing myself in a good book.
September 6, 2021
This is a delightful story!
Marnie is only 39, but as a divorced mom who’s battling arthritis she feels down on herself and hasn’t been living her life to the fullest. As she gets glammed up and supports her son at his art exhibit, she meets handsome politician Jason. They share a secret about another politician, which gives them a chance to get cozy with each other. Jason struggles terribly with insomnia and somehow Marnie seems to have the magic powers to help him relax and sleep. And more (🔥). Could more develop between Jason and Marnie? They have some hits and misses along the way and their worlds seem very far apart. Can they find their way back to each other?
While the story at times seems a bit far fetched, it’s nice to see the focus on a divorced women with grown children finding a new lease on life. Marnie’s supportive neighbors are fun side kicks; and Jason’s political life gives an interesting side story. Both Jason and Marnie have some struggles, and their vulnerability with each other is sweet. In my inexperienced opinion arthritis and insomnia are not the biggest obstacles people face to get so much whining from these characters; but they are clearly struggling. Really whatever you battle on a daily basis can be a big deal that consumes one’s thoughts. I tried to empathize with the characters even though their repetitive mentioning of ailments got a bit old. Like in any romance there is some miscommunication, but I really liked the way Jason and Marnie connected and were mostly very open with each other.
Overall I thought it was a fun story to read. I struggled with a few elements, but I still really enjoyed reading this.
I want to give it 5⭐️ to support this wonderful indie author! But I have to be honest and it wasn’t quite a 5 for me. But a great 4⭐️! I’d definitely recommend it for contemporary romance fans who are always looking for their next HEA.
—-
Thankful to the author for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I’m happy to provide my honest review.
Marnie is only 39, but as a divorced mom who’s battling arthritis she feels down on herself and hasn’t been living her life to the fullest. As she gets glammed up and supports her son at his art exhibit, she meets handsome politician Jason. They share a secret about another politician, which gives them a chance to get cozy with each other. Jason struggles terribly with insomnia and somehow Marnie seems to have the magic powers to help him relax and sleep. And more (🔥). Could more develop between Jason and Marnie? They have some hits and misses along the way and their worlds seem very far apart. Can they find their way back to each other?
While the story at times seems a bit far fetched, it’s nice to see the focus on a divorced women with grown children finding a new lease on life. Marnie’s supportive neighbors are fun side kicks; and Jason’s political life gives an interesting side story. Both Jason and Marnie have some struggles, and their vulnerability with each other is sweet. In my inexperienced opinion arthritis and insomnia are not the biggest obstacles people face to get so much whining from these characters; but they are clearly struggling. Really whatever you battle on a daily basis can be a big deal that consumes one’s thoughts. I tried to empathize with the characters even though their repetitive mentioning of ailments got a bit old. Like in any romance there is some miscommunication, but I really liked the way Jason and Marnie connected and were mostly very open with each other.
Overall I thought it was a fun story to read. I struggled with a few elements, but I still really enjoyed reading this.
I want to give it 5⭐️ to support this wonderful indie author! But I have to be honest and it wasn’t quite a 5 for me. But a great 4⭐️! I’d definitely recommend it for contemporary romance fans who are always looking for their next HEA.
—-
Thankful to the author for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I’m happy to provide my honest review.
August 20, 2021
I enjoyed this story because I felt I could relate to the main character, Marnie. So the story goes, Marnie is diagnosed with arthritis and feels that her life is about to expire. She goes to an event for her son and her life is thrown upside down. She begins to feel that maybe there is more to life than her diagnosis. She realizes that she has more support than she did in her younger years as well. The story has a HEA with a surprise near the end. I think any women in their 40's or later can relate to Marnie on some level. Thank you for the ARC Enni!
August 24, 2021
I loved Marnie in the first book, Nest or Invest, and adored her even more in this one! As a mom of a teen, I could totally relate from the start of this book!
This almost modern day Cinderella story was such a fun, relatable book. Marnie, a divorced mom of 2, coming to terms with being ‘older’ and dealing with arthritis, meets Jason, the (not much) younger, bachelor politician with his own issues. Together they navigate through the complexities of what their love means for their future and what they will sacrifice for that future.
I loved that Jason was a romantic with the right things to say (also, the lighthouse 💗) and wish there was more of Marnie’s story as a romance author!
This is book 2 but can absolutely be read as a stand alone.
Thank you, Enni for providing me with a copy of this amazing book for an honest review.
I loved it!
This almost modern day Cinderella story was such a fun, relatable book. Marnie, a divorced mom of 2, coming to terms with being ‘older’ and dealing with arthritis, meets Jason, the (not much) younger, bachelor politician with his own issues. Together they navigate through the complexities of what their love means for their future and what they will sacrifice for that future.
I loved that Jason was a romantic with the right things to say (also, the lighthouse 💗) and wish there was more of Marnie’s story as a romance author!
This is book 2 but can absolutely be read as a stand alone.
Thank you, Enni for providing me with a copy of this amazing book for an honest review.
I loved it!
August 29, 2021
A romantic comedy with a lot of heart!
This is the second book of the absolutely amazing Love New Zealand series. This book will have you laughing out loud on one hand and empathizing with the characters on the other. A little bit of an older couple, (not so very old, really!) Marnie and Jason each have their own challenges and struggles with their health and wellness, and self esteem. Both characters are really sweet and totally relatable. They are a good pair and so perfect for each other. This was a story that I could easily get pulled into and it kept my interest all the way through. I like that the focus was on a slightly older couple who have lived life a little and found love a second time. It was a sweet, realistic, and enjoyable read, and I'm looking forward to the next book from this author.
I received a complimentary advanced reader's copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This is the second book of the absolutely amazing Love New Zealand series. This book will have you laughing out loud on one hand and empathizing with the characters on the other. A little bit of an older couple, (not so very old, really!) Marnie and Jason each have their own challenges and struggles with their health and wellness, and self esteem. Both characters are really sweet and totally relatable. They are a good pair and so perfect for each other. This was a story that I could easily get pulled into and it kept my interest all the way through. I like that the focus was on a slightly older couple who have lived life a little and found love a second time. It was a sweet, realistic, and enjoyable read, and I'm looking forward to the next book from this author.
I received a complimentary advanced reader's copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 11, 2021
An unusual sleep disorder plus arthritis equals love? A charming, romantic tale. Politics are a featured issue. Interesting look at life in New Zealand. It is always fun to see the different word usage. I skipped over the spicy parts but thoroughly enjoyed the sweet ones. Teenaged daughter and friends add challenges and delight. Thanks to the author for providing a copy for my voluntary review.
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October 21, 2021Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 10 September 2021
Took this book on holiday with me and I couldn’t put it down! First book I have read by Enni Amanda but it won’t be the last. Loved the 2 main characters Jason & Marnie. Think we can all relate to them and the issues they work through! A pure joy to read and looking forward to reading more!
Took this book on holiday with me and I couldn’t put it down! First book I have read by Enni Amanda but it won’t be the last. Loved the 2 main characters Jason & Marnie. Think we can all relate to them and the issues they work through! A pure joy to read and looking forward to reading more!
August 28, 2021
I would just like to say a big thank you to the author who very kindly forwarded me a copy of her book, for my Kindle, in return for an honest review.
This is the second book in the Love In New Zealand series but can easily be read as a stand alone with no problems.
Hidden Gem is set in New Zealand and is a wonderful modern day romance.
Marnie is a struggling, divorced mum of two and when she meets Jason, there begins a political scandal alongside some well deserved passion!!
This was a lovely cosy romance and i really liked the two main characters, Jason and Marnie, the book was very well written and i enjoyed everything about it.
This is the second book in the Love In New Zealand series but can easily be read as a stand alone with no problems.
Hidden Gem is set in New Zealand and is a wonderful modern day romance.
Marnie is a struggling, divorced mum of two and when she meets Jason, there begins a political scandal alongside some well deserved passion!!
This was a lovely cosy romance and i really liked the two main characters, Jason and Marnie, the book was very well written and i enjoyed everything about it.
August 25, 2021
Hidden Gem by Enni Amanda is a delightful romantic romp!
New Zealander, Marnie, 39, has recently been diagnosed with early-onset arthritis and is feeling older than her years. A divorced mum of two, (including a fifteen-year-old daughter, Tanya – I can relate) she feels romantic love has passed her by.
That is until she meets Jason, a handsome and troubled politician who falls in love with her.
Ahh!
I enjoyed the ride. Twists, turns and communication difficulties. Fabulous characters and dialogue.
Thank you to Enni Amanda for providing me with an ARC of this book for review.
New Zealander, Marnie, 39, has recently been diagnosed with early-onset arthritis and is feeling older than her years. A divorced mum of two, (including a fifteen-year-old daughter, Tanya – I can relate) she feels romantic love has passed her by.
That is until she meets Jason, a handsome and troubled politician who falls in love with her.
Ahh!
I enjoyed the ride. Twists, turns and communication difficulties. Fabulous characters and dialogue.
Thank you to Enni Amanda for providing me with an ARC of this book for review.
September 30, 2021
I was lucky enough to win this in a give away.
3.5 stars
I definitely liked this book more than the first in the series, I like the characters more, believed them more and got more invested in the story.
I really enjoyed the setting and learning more about the country I call home and surely I’m not the only person that checked out that lighthouse Airbnb!
Unfortunately I still didn’t feel the passion which lost the stars for me.
I also was so frustrated with the lead going on about her age, she sounded like an 80 year old woman not a young 39yr old. I am 43 and I know sometimes I feel ancient but i just thought she was over the top.
3.5 stars
I definitely liked this book more than the first in the series, I like the characters more, believed them more and got more invested in the story.
I really enjoyed the setting and learning more about the country I call home and surely I’m not the only person that checked out that lighthouse Airbnb!
Unfortunately I still didn’t feel the passion which lost the stars for me.
I also was so frustrated with the lead going on about her age, she sounded like an 80 year old woman not a young 39yr old. I am 43 and I know sometimes I feel ancient but i just thought she was over the top.
January 9, 2022
I really enjoyed the story of an older women finding love again, and in the most unexpected place. The story kept me interested to the very end.
September 28, 2021
Hidden Gem is my first book by Enni Amanda’s and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is the second book in Amanda’s Love New Zealand series.
Hidden Gem follows Marnie, a divorced mother of two who lacks self-confidence. At 39 she’s experiencing early onset arthritis which adds to her lack of confidence and feeling of being “old”. At a political event, she meets Jason, and the attraction is instantaneous.
I really enjoyed Hidden Gem as it featured relatable characters and was an older woman/ younger man romance. This was a well-written romance with lovable characters who together tackle realistic challenges and finding love.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hidden Gem follows Marnie, a divorced mother of two who lacks self-confidence. At 39 she’s experiencing early onset arthritis which adds to her lack of confidence and feeling of being “old”. At a political event, she meets Jason, and the attraction is instantaneous.
I really enjoyed Hidden Gem as it featured relatable characters and was an older woman/ younger man romance. This was a well-written romance with lovable characters who together tackle realistic challenges and finding love.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 19, 2021
Hidden Gem by Enni Amanda is the second book in her Love New Zealand series. Prior to receiving the ARC for this book, I had not yet read book one in the series, Nest or Invest. So of course I had to go back and read that one first. I don't think it would be necessary to read the first to enjoy this second book, but I'm a completionist by nature and I like to start at the very beginning of any series.
Our heroine in this second book is Marnie, best friend of book 1's Shasa. She is staring down the barrel of the big 4-0, and has recently been diagnosed with early-onset arthritis, which only serves to make her feel even older than her age. She is a divorced mom of two, one who has already flown the nest, the other a typical teenage girl who doesn't have much use for her mother. All of these factors lead her to believe that she has an "expiration date" and should give up on silly things like finding love.
Enter Jason, a handsome political type, who meets Marnie at an arts gala featuring work done by Marnie's son. Jason brings his own demons to their budding relationship. His insomnia is out of control, mostly due to some issues plaguing his conscience, and he really doesn't like his prestigious job.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Marnie and Jason grow (and OMG I so want to stay in a lighthouse now!), and although they have some significant hurdles to overcome, our Cinderella eventually gets the HEA with her Prince Charming.
The only stumbling block for me with this book is solely because of my age. I would kill to be 39 again! I do remember the angst involved with turning 40, but honey, that's got nothing on realizing you're a half century old! For me this book was a solid four stars.
These were the first books I have read by this author, but I will certainly be checking out her back catalog. She writes authentic, enjoyable characters and sweet yet complicated relationships.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book for review.
Our heroine in this second book is Marnie, best friend of book 1's Shasa. She is staring down the barrel of the big 4-0, and has recently been diagnosed with early-onset arthritis, which only serves to make her feel even older than her age. She is a divorced mom of two, one who has already flown the nest, the other a typical teenage girl who doesn't have much use for her mother. All of these factors lead her to believe that she has an "expiration date" and should give up on silly things like finding love.
Enter Jason, a handsome political type, who meets Marnie at an arts gala featuring work done by Marnie's son. Jason brings his own demons to their budding relationship. His insomnia is out of control, mostly due to some issues plaguing his conscience, and he really doesn't like his prestigious job.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Marnie and Jason grow (and OMG I so want to stay in a lighthouse now!), and although they have some significant hurdles to overcome, our Cinderella eventually gets the HEA with her Prince Charming.
The only stumbling block for me with this book is solely because of my age. I would kill to be 39 again! I do remember the angst involved with turning 40, but honey, that's got nothing on realizing you're a half century old! For me this book was a solid four stars.
These were the first books I have read by this author, but I will certainly be checking out her back catalog. She writes authentic, enjoyable characters and sweet yet complicated relationships.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book for review.
September 17, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I love these story. I couldn't put the book down. Great characters that will pull you into their story. It has a Cinderella feel to it. It was actually very sweet story. The story flowed effortlessly with a few twists and turns that well keep you glued from start to finish.
September 4, 2021
Marnie Browne is a divorced mom who works at the local community centre. Marnie is trying to write a book, but life keeps getting in the way. Her son, Tom, is an up and coming artist who invites her to an art show during the week she feels the need to get away. Jason Hallett is a sleep-deprived MP who meets Marnie at the art show. He’s instantly smitten with her. There’s a case of mistaken identity and some sneaking around. There’s also some political intrigue thrown in. I loved Marnie’s character, but she was insecure in her identity after her divorce. I loved Jason’s character, but you were left wondering if he was the good guy or the bad guy. I enjoyed this book. I loved their interactions. I recommend this book.
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.
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