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New Zealand Ever After #5
Kiwi Sin
If it’s better to marry than to burn, I was in trouble.
When you walk out of a cult with a driving license and the clothes on your back, you can face some challenges. How does a cooker work, and what do you cook on it? Is microwave pizza actually food, and how many times can you eat sausages before you never want to smell them again? And what do people actually put in all those bathroom drawers?
And, finally, how do you sort out the good and the bad of the place you’ve left and the place you’ve found and make your own way? How do you start over when half your family wants to recreate Mount Zion right here in Dunedin, New Zealand, and the other half wants to forget it?
And when you find the one and only woman you’ll ever want to marry, what if everybody says no?
I’d been named after the archangel Gabriel. I was meant to know the truth and announce it to the world. So far, I wasn’t even coming close.
When you walk out of a cult with a driving license and the clothes on your back, you can face some challenges. How does a cooker work, and what do you cook on it? Is microwave pizza actually food, and how many times can you eat sausages before you never want to smell them again? And what do people actually put in all those bathroom drawers?
And, finally, how do you sort out the good and the bad of the place you’ve left and the place you’ve found and make your own way? How do you start over when half your family wants to recreate Mount Zion right here in Dunedin, New Zealand, and the other half wants to forget it?
And when you find the one and only woman you’ll ever want to marry, what if everybody says no?
I’d been named after the archangel Gabriel. I was meant to know the truth and announce it to the world. So far, I wasn’t even coming close.
478 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
170 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Rosalind James
55 books1,219 followersRosalind James writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense published both by Montlake Romance and independently. Her stories are set in New Zealand, Idaho, California, New York . . . really, anyplace that seems cool. (Research trips, especially those involving lots of rugby, are a bonus.) Her books are available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. Rosalind is a former marketing executive who spent several years in Australia and New Zealand, where she fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the culture of both countries. She attributes her rapid success to the fact that "Lots of people would like to escape to New Zealand! I know I did!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
February 27, 2024
This made a Mariana Zapata look like the fastest burn there ever was 😩
February 23, 2023
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book, but I somehow highly doubt that many of my Goodreads friends would agree with me. This book had one of my all-time favorites... dual virgins. 🎉🎉 HOW has no one mentioned that in the reviews yet??? I'm also a sucker for a hero who waits for the heroine, and here they waited to do the deed until after marriage. Although they def went to third a bit before that. 🤷🏻♀️
So why do I think that not many people would enjoy this book? Because the age gap is pretty gross. The story does span a good amount of time though - over a year, but maybe closer to a year and a half - so that made the relationship progression easier to digest. The heroine is 16 and turns 17 early on in the story. She's a few months from turning 18 when the story ends. The hero is turning 25 at the end. In normal circumstances, this would be a huge NOPE from me, a seven year age gap with an underage heroine is too much. However, given that they both grew up in a cult, and the heroine grew up expecting to get married at age 16, I wasn't really bothered. The hero and heroine had both admired each other while growing up and the heroine had always hoped that the prophet would choose the hero to be her husband.
After leaving the cult, the heroine, Oriana, is actually somewhat sad because she feels that she belonged better in the cult than she does on the outside. She likes to cook, clean, take care of babies, garden, knit, sew, and generally just prefers to take on the more traditional female roles. The heroine struggles a lot because her sisters are very different from her - and judge her for her choices. Daisy, the heroine of book 3, pressures Oriana to finish high school and attend uni, even though Oriana's interests lay elsewhere. I understood Daisy's perspective, but she also was somewhat hypocritical at times. She didn't see how Oriana could possibly be successful without a university education, Daisy appreciated Oriana's cooking and cleaning skills one minute, but also minimized and dismissed Oriana's contributions and accomplishments frequently.
Meanwhile, Gabriel is working in construction and doing his best to save money for the future. He wants to get married, and has always admired Oriana, but doesn't know how to approach her on the "outside". Most of his family have also left the cult, but his parents are especially determined to keep a lot of the same beliefs and practices on the outside. This story is the ULTIMATE slow-burn. The MCs spend much more time completely apart than they do together. For 50% or more of the story, they barely even interact. They each spend a lot of time thinking about what they want in the future, and trying to make a life for themselves outside of the cult. Their interactions initially are very innocent and often super sweet. I really liked Gabriel and how unsure he was of Oriana's feelings and how hard he found it to approach her. Ignoring the age gap, Gabriel is one of the sweetest, kindest heroes I've read in a long time.
I'm genuinely surprised by how much of a book hangover I have now that I've finished this book. I am actually sad that there are no more stories set in this cult-world. Which seems like its a very weird thing to desire, but here I am. Yikes.
Safe; dual virgins, no scenes with om/ow, no cheating, neither are interested in anyone else but there's some om and ow drama from others being interested in the H&h. The hero is approached by ow who essentially tells him that she's dtf, he briefly thinks about being tempted, but ultimately turns her and everyone else down.
TW: child abuse, SA/rape mentioned, child molestation, cults, indentured servitude, unwilling imprisonment, child brides mentioned, misogyny and sexism
So why do I think that not many people would enjoy this book? Because the age gap is pretty gross. The story does span a good amount of time though - over a year, but maybe closer to a year and a half - so that made the relationship progression easier to digest. The heroine is 16 and turns 17 early on in the story. She's a few months from turning 18 when the story ends. The hero is turning 25 at the end. In normal circumstances, this would be a huge NOPE from me, a seven year age gap with an underage heroine is too much. However, given that they both grew up in a cult, and the heroine grew up expecting to get married at age 16, I wasn't really bothered. The hero and heroine had both admired each other while growing up and the heroine had always hoped that the prophet would choose the hero to be her husband.
After leaving the cult, the heroine, Oriana, is actually somewhat sad because she feels that she belonged better in the cult than she does on the outside. She likes to cook, clean, take care of babies, garden, knit, sew, and generally just prefers to take on the more traditional female roles. The heroine struggles a lot because her sisters are very different from her - and judge her for her choices. Daisy, the heroine of book 3, pressures Oriana to finish high school and attend uni, even though Oriana's interests lay elsewhere. I understood Daisy's perspective, but she also was somewhat hypocritical at times. She didn't see how Oriana could possibly be successful without a university education, Daisy appreciated Oriana's cooking and cleaning skills one minute, but also minimized and dismissed Oriana's contributions and accomplishments frequently.
Meanwhile, Gabriel is working in construction and doing his best to save money for the future. He wants to get married, and has always admired Oriana, but doesn't know how to approach her on the "outside". Most of his family have also left the cult, but his parents are especially determined to keep a lot of the same beliefs and practices on the outside. This story is the ULTIMATE slow-burn. The MCs spend much more time completely apart than they do together. For 50% or more of the story, they barely even interact. They each spend a lot of time thinking about what they want in the future, and trying to make a life for themselves outside of the cult. Their interactions initially are very innocent and often super sweet. I really liked Gabriel and how unsure he was of Oriana's feelings and how hard he found it to approach her. Ignoring the age gap, Gabriel is one of the sweetest, kindest heroes I've read in a long time.
I'm genuinely surprised by how much of a book hangover I have now that I've finished this book. I am actually sad that there are no more stories set in this cult-world. Which seems like its a very weird thing to desire, but here I am. Yikes.
Safe; dual virgins, no scenes with om/ow, no cheating, neither are interested in anyone else but there's some om and ow drama from others being interested in the H&h. The hero is approached by ow who essentially tells him that she's dtf, he briefly thinks about being tempted, but ultimately turns her and everyone else down.
TW: child abuse, SA/rape mentioned, child molestation, cults, indentured servitude, unwilling imprisonment, child brides mentioned, misogyny and sexism
August 26, 2022
Another visit to New Zealand and another wonderful addition to the New Zealand Ever After Series. Rosalind James paints magical pictures with her words and like all her previous books set in New Zealand, I once again found myself transported to a country I feel like I know. This is Oriana and Gabriel’s slow burn journey and I was captivated from the moment I picked this book up.
Oriana and Gabriel have both escaped cult life at Mount Zion and are now struggling to come to terms with a life that gives them freedom and hope. They may share an attraction but neither of them know how to form a relationship that is wrapped in love and that means they are going to go through many ups and downs as the navigate the road ahead……
Kiwi Sin is a beautifully written, emotional and captivating story, it has wonderful characters who I fell hard and fast for as I watched them take on a new world. It’s a story about courage and new beginnings and I loved everything about this very special read.
Oriana and Gabriel have both escaped cult life at Mount Zion and are now struggling to come to terms with a life that gives them freedom and hope. They may share an attraction but neither of them know how to form a relationship that is wrapped in love and that means they are going to go through many ups and downs as the navigate the road ahead……
Kiwi Sin is a beautifully written, emotional and captivating story, it has wonderful characters who I fell hard and fast for as I watched them take on a new world. It’s a story about courage and new beginnings and I loved everything about this very special read.
August 28, 2022
Rosalind has shown in previous books that she can write about sensitive topics with empathy and understanding. There are a number of those topics raised in Kiwi Sin, not the least the youth of the FMC Oriana (she’s 17) and the significant age difference between her and the MMC Gabriel (he’s about 25). The FMC’s age and the relationship age difference could potentially be, quite frankly, a bit icky, but Rosalind handles it with grace. The difficulties people have when leaving cults and establishing themselves in greater society is also handled beautifully and expands on themes explored in Kiwi Strong, which is Gray and Daisy’s story.
Kiwi Sin follows Oriana and Gabriel after they leave the Mt Zion cult. Oriana leaves with her sister Frankie and is later followed by her sister Priya and the sisters are taken in by Daisy and Gray. Frankie embraces her new life to the fullest, soaking up all the new opportunities offered to her at school, when making new friends and in self-expression, especially in her clothing and hairstyle choices and in the way she communicates. Oriana finds it much more challenging. While she is grateful for the opportunities offered Outside, she is, at heart, a quiet home body. She loves caring for babies, knitting, cooking and sewing as well as pottering around in the garden and caring for the alpacas on Gray’s property. She feels conflicted about this, and it creates some friction with her family, as it seems to them as she is wasting her opportunities Outside. She also feels like she doesn’t really belong anywhere, not at Mount Zion and not Outside. But in her own way, she is a strong, courageous character and she eventually finds her path.
Gabriel escaped from Mount Zion at the same time as Oriana. Gabriel at least has some experience with Outside, but it’s obvious he still feels like a fish out of water with many simple tasks, such as cooking (where he is hilariously given advice by Drew and Hannah’s young son). Gabriel is a very positive, determined person and he refuses to let it get him down. He has an impeccable work ethic and is highly skilled in carpentry and building and these attributes help him find his way. He gets a job, buys a car, moves into a flat and establishes his independence. I also admire how Gabriel can reflect on what it means to be a man in Mt Zion compared to Outside and how he can adapt to keep the best parts of his character that have been moulded in Mt Zion (the protectiveness, the work ethic) while not adopting the less desirable ones. Having said that, it’s likely that even if Gabriel had stayed in Mt Zion, he probably would still have been a good husband and provider, just because of the integrity and goodness of his character.
Gabriel and Oriana had always admired each other, even in Mt Zion and both harboured a secret desire that they would be “given” to each other when the time came when they needed to get married. Outside though, people have choices, and this story is all about Gabriel and Oriana choosing to be with each other. And by choosing each other, they have found the person who understands them and who loves them and all that they stand for. Also, as part of that choice is the hard work put in by both Oriana and Gabriel to make themselves worthy of each other. For instance, Gabriel learns to cook and clean, Oriana develops a business so she can bring in an income and both research, discuss and experiment with what they would like when it comes to intimacy. It’s a sweet, sometimes slightly clumsy and hesitant, but always respectful journey to happiness for both of them.
Kiwi Sin is the slowest of slow burns as we follow Oriana and Gabriel, both as individuals and then as partners, but it would have been disingenuous to have told this story any other way. I always struggle to write reviews for Rosalind’s books because I love them so much, I want to do them justice. They are so lush and beautifully written, with laugh out loud lines and phrases that I will be thinking of long after I finish. Kiwi Sin will definitely be a regular re-read.
Kiwi Sin follows Oriana and Gabriel after they leave the Mt Zion cult. Oriana leaves with her sister Frankie and is later followed by her sister Priya and the sisters are taken in by Daisy and Gray. Frankie embraces her new life to the fullest, soaking up all the new opportunities offered to her at school, when making new friends and in self-expression, especially in her clothing and hairstyle choices and in the way she communicates. Oriana finds it much more challenging. While she is grateful for the opportunities offered Outside, she is, at heart, a quiet home body. She loves caring for babies, knitting, cooking and sewing as well as pottering around in the garden and caring for the alpacas on Gray’s property. She feels conflicted about this, and it creates some friction with her family, as it seems to them as she is wasting her opportunities Outside. She also feels like she doesn’t really belong anywhere, not at Mount Zion and not Outside. But in her own way, she is a strong, courageous character and she eventually finds her path.
Gabriel escaped from Mount Zion at the same time as Oriana. Gabriel at least has some experience with Outside, but it’s obvious he still feels like a fish out of water with many simple tasks, such as cooking (where he is hilariously given advice by Drew and Hannah’s young son). Gabriel is a very positive, determined person and he refuses to let it get him down. He has an impeccable work ethic and is highly skilled in carpentry and building and these attributes help him find his way. He gets a job, buys a car, moves into a flat and establishes his independence. I also admire how Gabriel can reflect on what it means to be a man in Mt Zion compared to Outside and how he can adapt to keep the best parts of his character that have been moulded in Mt Zion (the protectiveness, the work ethic) while not adopting the less desirable ones. Having said that, it’s likely that even if Gabriel had stayed in Mt Zion, he probably would still have been a good husband and provider, just because of the integrity and goodness of his character.
Gabriel and Oriana had always admired each other, even in Mt Zion and both harboured a secret desire that they would be “given” to each other when the time came when they needed to get married. Outside though, people have choices, and this story is all about Gabriel and Oriana choosing to be with each other. And by choosing each other, they have found the person who understands them and who loves them and all that they stand for. Also, as part of that choice is the hard work put in by both Oriana and Gabriel to make themselves worthy of each other. For instance, Gabriel learns to cook and clean, Oriana develops a business so she can bring in an income and both research, discuss and experiment with what they would like when it comes to intimacy. It’s a sweet, sometimes slightly clumsy and hesitant, but always respectful journey to happiness for both of them.
Kiwi Sin is the slowest of slow burns as we follow Oriana and Gabriel, both as individuals and then as partners, but it would have been disingenuous to have told this story any other way. I always struggle to write reviews for Rosalind’s books because I love them so much, I want to do them justice. They are so lush and beautifully written, with laugh out loud lines and phrases that I will be thinking of long after I finish. Kiwi Sin will definitely be a regular re-read.
September 22, 2022
I have to say, Rosalind has a way of drawing you into her books. Only one other author does that to me and he’s pretty darn famous—Stephen King. While their content is world’s apart, their attention to detail and storytelling are mesmerizing.
I took my time reading this because I’m one of those people, you know the ones who nibble their way around a Reese cup to get to the peanut butter? If something is good, I savor it for as long as I can. The story of Oriana and Gabriel was so sweet. I wasn’t sure at the beginning, because Gabriel is not the typical male lead in Rosalind’s books—you know, sexy, take-charge, alpha. But this book exudes sweetness and innocence. You didn’t need steamy sex scenes to be fully engaged in this love story.
I took my time reading this because I’m one of those people, you know the ones who nibble their way around a Reese cup to get to the peanut butter? If something is good, I savor it for as long as I can. The story of Oriana and Gabriel was so sweet. I wasn’t sure at the beginning, because Gabriel is not the typical male lead in Rosalind’s books—you know, sexy, take-charge, alpha. But this book exudes sweetness and innocence. You didn’t need steamy sex scenes to be fully engaged in this love story.
August 13, 2022
This is such a good story, which gives the reader a lot to think about. Daisy was the first to manage to escape from Mount Zion, a harsh cult where she had been very badly treated. With her nursing training she continued to try and help the women, sneaking in at night to provide birth control to those who who were tired of having a child every year. She also goes back at the start of every month to help anyone who is brave enough to leave. Her younger sister Obedience has already joined her, and as the story begins another sister, Fruitful, and several members of the Worthy family, Daisy’s cousins, leave. The girls all change their names; Daisy had been Chastity, Obedience is now Oriana, and Fruitful has decided to be Frankie. Girls at Mount Zion are forced to finish schooling as soon as they are fifteen, then when they are sixteen they have to marry whomever the cult leader The Prophet decides on from the men who have turned twenty five. By the time the girls are seventeen most of them are very pregnant with the first of many children. Gabriel, who has just left is just twenty-five, and had he stayed he would have been getting married, and in his heart he was hoping that Obedience would be chosen for him, not that the expected that to happen! He is not really a cousin he was born from his mother’s first marriage, she married Aaron Worthy after her first husband died.
After Gabriel comes away he is offered a job as a builder by Gray Tamatoa, who Daisy lives with; and Drew Callahan says he can live in his granny flat until he has established himself. Both men were famous retired members of the All Blacks rugby team, not that Gabriel has ever heard of them. He left Mount Zion with just the clothes he had on, and a notebook and pencil in his pocket. He is very hungry but has no idea how he can possibly get hold of food without money. He is embarrassed on the journey to Drew’s home when Drew pulls up at a small restaurant and treats him to a burger and chips, and a cup of tea, he is determined to pay him back when he gets his first wage packet. When they arrive at Drew’s home Gabriel meets his family, and is amazed at the size of the granny flat that he will be living in, he has never had space of his own before, and finds it very strange.
Gabriel gets on well with Jack, Drew’s oldest son, who is nine years old, a very serious young boy. Jack teaches Gabriel how to use the kitchen gadgets, and the television, even how to cook a few simple things so that he won’t starve - Gabriel has never cooked, it was women’s work at Mount Zion. His relationship with Jack is very touching, asking his advice about various things that puzzle him. He really wants to talk to Oriana, get to know her better, but they are both incredibly shy, she won’t even look directly at him. Neither of them have a clue how to progress any form of relationship.
Oriana is forced to go back to school, her older sister Daisy wants her to go to university, explore all the options now open to her. Oriana knows what she wants and is quietly working towards her own goals. When their families are aware there are romantic feelings between them they show their disapproval - the age difference is too great being one of the main reasons. Yet Gabriel’s parents are trying to push him into a relationship with another girl from Mount Zion, a year younger than Oriana.
Despite the difficulties in their path Oriana and Gabriel do get closer, slowly. Both of them have to learn how to stand up for themselves, to escape from the docility that was necessary at Mount Zion. It is quite thrilling watching them develop and grow, and sometimes quite heartbreaking to hear some of the ways people have been treated at Mount Zion, including Oriana and her sisters. It shows the reasons why all of the ‘refugees’ act in the ways they do.
This is a great story, very emotional and very powerful. Well worth reading.
After Gabriel comes away he is offered a job as a builder by Gray Tamatoa, who Daisy lives with; and Drew Callahan says he can live in his granny flat until he has established himself. Both men were famous retired members of the All Blacks rugby team, not that Gabriel has ever heard of them. He left Mount Zion with just the clothes he had on, and a notebook and pencil in his pocket. He is very hungry but has no idea how he can possibly get hold of food without money. He is embarrassed on the journey to Drew’s home when Drew pulls up at a small restaurant and treats him to a burger and chips, and a cup of tea, he is determined to pay him back when he gets his first wage packet. When they arrive at Drew’s home Gabriel meets his family, and is amazed at the size of the granny flat that he will be living in, he has never had space of his own before, and finds it very strange.
Gabriel gets on well with Jack, Drew’s oldest son, who is nine years old, a very serious young boy. Jack teaches Gabriel how to use the kitchen gadgets, and the television, even how to cook a few simple things so that he won’t starve - Gabriel has never cooked, it was women’s work at Mount Zion. His relationship with Jack is very touching, asking his advice about various things that puzzle him. He really wants to talk to Oriana, get to know her better, but they are both incredibly shy, she won’t even look directly at him. Neither of them have a clue how to progress any form of relationship.
Oriana is forced to go back to school, her older sister Daisy wants her to go to university, explore all the options now open to her. Oriana knows what she wants and is quietly working towards her own goals. When their families are aware there are romantic feelings between them they show their disapproval - the age difference is too great being one of the main reasons. Yet Gabriel’s parents are trying to push him into a relationship with another girl from Mount Zion, a year younger than Oriana.
Despite the difficulties in their path Oriana and Gabriel do get closer, slowly. Both of them have to learn how to stand up for themselves, to escape from the docility that was necessary at Mount Zion. It is quite thrilling watching them develop and grow, and sometimes quite heartbreaking to hear some of the ways people have been treated at Mount Zion, including Oriana and her sisters. It shows the reasons why all of the ‘refugees’ act in the ways they do.
This is a great story, very emotional and very powerful. Well worth reading.
September 4, 2022
3.5 to 4 stars. A different style of book from Ms James - more in the style of the previous book, Kiwi Gold. More slow burn, less steam than her past books. Although I did enjoy this one, I admit I prefer more experienced and mature protagonists, and the alpha male heroes such as Marko Sendoa or Luka Darkovic from the Escape to New Zealand series that Ms James writes so well. For my preference, I hope Ms James goes back to writing more books and heroes like those ones rather than the Kiwi Sin style of book.
This book was more in the style of a sweet romance with a verrrrry slow burn and almost no steamy scenes, with no actual sex till after the marriage vows. It was a decent storyline, revolving around two escapees/refugees from the Mount Zion cult, and their challenges in adjusting to life in the normal world. Oriana is a very young 'new adult' still going to high school for much of the book, although she is mature for her age and knows what she wants out of life. She and Gabriel have to fight against the expectations of their families as they pursue their romance. Both are strong and determined individuals and they fight for what they want and for each other. The ending is lovely.
Overall though, I was a little disappointed as I didn't really connect with either of the protagonists, and so I wasn't as invested in their HEA as much as I usually am with Ms James' books. I missed the sexy scenes too. Also, I'm not that interested in cults. I feel as if the cult has aspect has been explored enough in these books and I'm ready to move on to a new storyline. Oh well, I'm still a fan and will definitely buy the next book anyway LOL.
This book was more in the style of a sweet romance with a verrrrry slow burn and almost no steamy scenes, with no actual sex till after the marriage vows. It was a decent storyline, revolving around two escapees/refugees from the Mount Zion cult, and their challenges in adjusting to life in the normal world. Oriana is a very young 'new adult' still going to high school for much of the book, although she is mature for her age and knows what she wants out of life. She and Gabriel have to fight against the expectations of their families as they pursue their romance. Both are strong and determined individuals and they fight for what they want and for each other. The ending is lovely.
Overall though, I was a little disappointed as I didn't really connect with either of the protagonists, and so I wasn't as invested in their HEA as much as I usually am with Ms James' books. I missed the sexy scenes too. Also, I'm not that interested in cults. I feel as if the cult has aspect has been explored enough in these books and I'm ready to move on to a new storyline. Oh well, I'm still a fan and will definitely buy the next book anyway LOL.
August 25, 2022
5 Star Review of Kiwi Sin (New Zealand Ever After #5) by Rosalind James
Well what a story! Rosalind James has woven a tale that will draw you in from the first chapter and keep you hooked until the last word is read.
This is Oriana and Gabriel’s slow burn story and was one that got to me on a number of levels. I loved these characters, there were a number of layers to Kiwi Sin and such is the descriptive writing of Ms.James , I could easily envisage Dunedin as I was reading.
After they both escaped Mount Zion and the cult that almost consumed them, Oriana and Gabriel struggle in the real world. There were moments that almost broke my heart as they came to terms with the life they had led and the life and freedom that they were struggling to create.
Oriana and Gabriel are attracted to one another but neither know how to proceed as they have no experience. It was heart warming and at times heart breaking to watch the growth and development of these characters as their story progressed.
Kiwi Sin is an emotional, well written story about courage, bravery and second chances.
Well what a story! Rosalind James has woven a tale that will draw you in from the first chapter and keep you hooked until the last word is read.
This is Oriana and Gabriel’s slow burn story and was one that got to me on a number of levels. I loved these characters, there were a number of layers to Kiwi Sin and such is the descriptive writing of Ms.James , I could easily envisage Dunedin as I was reading.
After they both escaped Mount Zion and the cult that almost consumed them, Oriana and Gabriel struggle in the real world. There were moments that almost broke my heart as they came to terms with the life they had led and the life and freedom that they were struggling to create.
Oriana and Gabriel are attracted to one another but neither know how to proceed as they have no experience. It was heart warming and at times heart breaking to watch the growth and development of these characters as their story progressed.
Kiwi Sin is an emotional, well written story about courage, bravery and second chances.
August 6, 2022
So many romance books cycle through the same tropes and characters. This series about people who have escaped from a creepy, anti-modern, and misogynist religious cult to life in modern New Zealand is very original. I wouldn’t have thought that I’d be interested in that plot set-up, but I found that I couldn’t put it down and I stayed up way too late to finish it.
The protagonists in this book, Oriana and Gabriel, have both escaped from the cult and are trying to build new lives. They’re lucky enough to receive the generous help of two retired star rugby players, heroes of earlier Rosalind James books, but both characters are so honorable and independent that they want to make it on their own without relying too much on outside help.
Gabriel is working hard in a construction job for the partner of Oriana’s older sister, Daisy from Kiwi Gold. He’s also living in a cottage owned by the protagonists of James’ first New Zealand novel, Hannah and Drew Callahan from Just This Once, so it’s lovely to catch up with all these characters. It is clear right from the start that Gabriel has a firm foundation of honor and kindness despite being described as extraordinarily handsome so that all sorts of women are throwing themselves at him. But he’s always been attracted to Oriana who was known as Obedience in the cult. Oriana is, however, just 17, so he fears that he’s too old for her although he’s just in his mid twenties. Of course, girls in the cult were given to men when they turned 16 so she’s not too old in their former lives.
Despite Oriana’s sister hoping that Oriana will embrace all the opportunities now available to her in the modern world, she is still the same person at heart. She likes cooking and taking care of babies. She wants to build her own business helping to raise alpacas and selling knitting made from their wool. She is not interested in going to college and embracing some more prestigious profession. And she’s always loved Gabriel from afar.
This is a very slow-burn sort of romance as it takes the protagonists a long time to realize that they both love each other. Then they have to face disapproval from their families. But these are both such strong people that, once they express their love for each other, they’re ready to build a life together and demonstrate that they are actually the perfect couple.
I really enjoyed following the growth of these two characters. I liked how Orianna was able to stand up for herself and defend her choices even if taking care of others rather than going to college doesn’t seem like the modern choice to her more rebellious sisters. And it was fun to see how both Oriana and Gabriel coped with a world so unlike the one they’d grown up in. It was cute to see how Hannah and Drew’s young son tutored Gabriel in modern tasks like how to fry an egg.
A Rosalind James book never disappoints. If you haven’t read any of her books, I recommend starting at the beginning. You’re in for a treat.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from the author; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
The protagonists in this book, Oriana and Gabriel, have both escaped from the cult and are trying to build new lives. They’re lucky enough to receive the generous help of two retired star rugby players, heroes of earlier Rosalind James books, but both characters are so honorable and independent that they want to make it on their own without relying too much on outside help.
Gabriel is working hard in a construction job for the partner of Oriana’s older sister, Daisy from Kiwi Gold. He’s also living in a cottage owned by the protagonists of James’ first New Zealand novel, Hannah and Drew Callahan from Just This Once, so it’s lovely to catch up with all these characters. It is clear right from the start that Gabriel has a firm foundation of honor and kindness despite being described as extraordinarily handsome so that all sorts of women are throwing themselves at him. But he’s always been attracted to Oriana who was known as Obedience in the cult. Oriana is, however, just 17, so he fears that he’s too old for her although he’s just in his mid twenties. Of course, girls in the cult were given to men when they turned 16 so she’s not too old in their former lives.
Despite Oriana’s sister hoping that Oriana will embrace all the opportunities now available to her in the modern world, she is still the same person at heart. She likes cooking and taking care of babies. She wants to build her own business helping to raise alpacas and selling knitting made from their wool. She is not interested in going to college and embracing some more prestigious profession. And she’s always loved Gabriel from afar.
This is a very slow-burn sort of romance as it takes the protagonists a long time to realize that they both love each other. Then they have to face disapproval from their families. But these are both such strong people that, once they express their love for each other, they’re ready to build a life together and demonstrate that they are actually the perfect couple.
I really enjoyed following the growth of these two characters. I liked how Orianna was able to stand up for herself and defend her choices even if taking care of others rather than going to college doesn’t seem like the modern choice to her more rebellious sisters. And it was fun to see how both Oriana and Gabriel coped with a world so unlike the one they’d grown up in. It was cute to see how Hannah and Drew’s young son tutored Gabriel in modern tasks like how to fry an egg.
A Rosalind James book never disappoints. If you haven’t read any of her books, I recommend starting at the beginning. You’re in for a treat.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from the author; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
August 29, 2022
I am speechless. Not in a bad way, more like I am not sure if i have the right words to express how this book made me feel. This book felt so different to me. It was overwhelming at times. It was hard. It was soft. It was sweet. It was sad, painful, hurtful. It was also uplifting. It was satisfying. It was empowering. It was educating. It was happy.
Everyone from Mount Zion had so much to contend with, whether they stayed or they left. For Gabriel and Oriana, it felt to me like they had a level of strength different from the other former residents. I thought it was because the experiences differed for Daisy, Frankie, Priya, and Patience.
Gabriel and Oriana struggled to find the balance that still allowed them to maintain their basic nature. Not who they were because of the Prophet, but who they were in spite of him. With the other ladies, I felt like their individual traumas had more of an influence on the paths they were taking outside of the Prophet's influence. Neither way was bad, just different.
Being completely honest, I was happy for the family tree at the beginning of the book. I did have moments at the beginning where I was a little confused about who was who.
I would not say this book was a fast or easy read. It had moments of wit, humor, and being lighthearted. It was romantic and had sexual tension. It was absolutely a slow burn romance.
A few secrets were revealed. There were characters in previous books who were briefly revisited, as well as All Blacks from the Escape From NZ series. There was still that familiar sense of family, support, loyalty, love, and sensuality that to me, is an integral part of a Rosalind James novel.
Everyone from Mount Zion had so much to contend with, whether they stayed or they left. For Gabriel and Oriana, it felt to me like they had a level of strength different from the other former residents. I thought it was because the experiences differed for Daisy, Frankie, Priya, and Patience.
Gabriel and Oriana struggled to find the balance that still allowed them to maintain their basic nature. Not who they were because of the Prophet, but who they were in spite of him. With the other ladies, I felt like their individual traumas had more of an influence on the paths they were taking outside of the Prophet's influence. Neither way was bad, just different.
Being completely honest, I was happy for the family tree at the beginning of the book. I did have moments at the beginning where I was a little confused about who was who.
I would not say this book was a fast or easy read. It had moments of wit, humor, and being lighthearted. It was romantic and had sexual tension. It was absolutely a slow burn romance.
A few secrets were revealed. There were characters in previous books who were briefly revisited, as well as All Blacks from the Escape From NZ series. There was still that familiar sense of family, support, loyalty, love, and sensuality that to me, is an integral part of a Rosalind James novel.
August 30, 2022
Every time I sit down to write a review for another Rosalind James book, I am amazed to say that I like this new book just as much as I liked the previous one, and the one before that, and so on. She has a unique way of delving into many different types of personalities and making them all human, vulnerable, strong, and likable. It might be an extremely focused high profile sportsman, or an underestimated daughter who can never quite please a demanding father, or a former soldier dealing with a career ending injury, or an overworked older sister, just trying to make a living for herself and her younger sibling.
Kiwi Sin takes a look at several different former religious cult members, trying to make their way in the larger world outside of the fences of their former lives. It’s an interesting name for a book, but you have to really delve into it before you figure out the type of sin: anything that isn’t allowed by The Prophet, leader of the cult known as Mount Zion. It is a difficult transition for all - clothing, hairstyles, dealing with wages and bills, schooling, new societal norms, and most of all, relationships. Two of the main characters, Gabriel and Oriana, are struggling to hang onto their true selves while negotiating a “big” life outside of the cult and its strictures.
If you choose to delve into Kiwi Sin, you will find that you cannot help getting involved in all of their struggles.
The added bonus is a bit of a look into characters that we know and love from previous books. It if almost as if you ‘know’ them and enjoy catching up with what is going on in their lives.
Read this one - you will like it!
Kiwi Sin takes a look at several different former religious cult members, trying to make their way in the larger world outside of the fences of their former lives. It’s an interesting name for a book, but you have to really delve into it before you figure out the type of sin: anything that isn’t allowed by The Prophet, leader of the cult known as Mount Zion. It is a difficult transition for all - clothing, hairstyles, dealing with wages and bills, schooling, new societal norms, and most of all, relationships. Two of the main characters, Gabriel and Oriana, are struggling to hang onto their true selves while negotiating a “big” life outside of the cult and its strictures.
If you choose to delve into Kiwi Sin, you will find that you cannot help getting involved in all of their struggles.
The added bonus is a bit of a look into characters that we know and love from previous books. It if almost as if you ‘know’ them and enjoy catching up with what is going on in their lives.
Read this one - you will like it!
August 30, 2022
I’m going to start this review of a bit of a disclaimer. If you are expecting a full on Escape to New Zealand romance, this is not the book you want. This is more closely aligned with what I would consider “women’s fiction” - that is not a bad thing at all as this is a wonderful read, but the drama/conflict is a bit broader than what you would expect to find in a pure romance read.
Okay, now that is out of the way - let’s talk about Kiwi Sin. Oriana is a character that we met in Kiwi Gold (as a secondary) and is the sister of Daisy whom we’ve met before. Gabriel is also from the Mount Zion community and has come “Outside” to make a life for himself.
Told in alternate points of view, we see both Oriana and Gabriel struggle with adapting to the changes around them and finding their groove amongst family and worldly expectations. As their paths continue to cross, we see the story unfold to include a budding romance and drama related to Mount Zion.
Written in Ms James’ unique style, I loved seeing the evolution of Oriana, Gabriel, and the family surrounding them. This story is told with a great deal of grace as the cast of both primary and secondary characters grow and develop on the Outside. There is a strong message regarding finding YOUR path, even if it’s not what someone else thinks is best that I appreciated.
My one other disclaimer regarding this strong entry into the Kiwi series is that the books are very much connected. While Oriana and Gabriel’s story can be read by itself, I truly do think that they work better when read in order.
Okay, now that is out of the way - let’s talk about Kiwi Sin. Oriana is a character that we met in Kiwi Gold (as a secondary) and is the sister of Daisy whom we’ve met before. Gabriel is also from the Mount Zion community and has come “Outside” to make a life for himself.
Told in alternate points of view, we see both Oriana and Gabriel struggle with adapting to the changes around them and finding their groove amongst family and worldly expectations. As their paths continue to cross, we see the story unfold to include a budding romance and drama related to Mount Zion.
Written in Ms James’ unique style, I loved seeing the evolution of Oriana, Gabriel, and the family surrounding them. This story is told with a great deal of grace as the cast of both primary and secondary characters grow and develop on the Outside. There is a strong message regarding finding YOUR path, even if it’s not what someone else thinks is best that I appreciated.
My one other disclaimer regarding this strong entry into the Kiwi series is that the books are very much connected. While Oriana and Gabriel’s story can be read by itself, I truly do think that they work better when read in order.
August 27, 2022
First of all…WOW!! Oriana and Gabriel’s story was so interesting and the perfect slow burn romance. How would you adapt if you left a backwards cult? There are so many struggles and changes that must be overcome. We met Oriana in previous New Zealand Ever After books. Where her sisters are head strong to be modern, independent women Oriana loves doing many things that are considered “homemaker” jobs with a twist as an entrepreneurial businesswoman. Gabriel is just trying to figure out life on the “outside” while working like a fiend using his wonderful building skills to be self-sufficient, did I mention he is H-O-T and so sweet?
After years of yearning for each other but not being able to be together Oriana and Gabriel know what they want. How do they convince their families that 1. Their age difference doesn’t mean anything after how they lived at Mt. Zion, 2. They are financially sound. 3. They are not naïve. 4. Most important… They LOVE each other.
Through many twists and turns Oriana and Gabriel ‘s story takes us on an exquisite love story ride as they conquer one obstacle after another to learn what it means to be a couple in the “outside” world. We get to catch up with many of our favorite Kiwi friends and families as we watch Oriana and Gabriel learn to live the modern, New Zealand life style and at the same time preserve the best of themselves.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
After years of yearning for each other but not being able to be together Oriana and Gabriel know what they want. How do they convince their families that 1. Their age difference doesn’t mean anything after how they lived at Mt. Zion, 2. They are financially sound. 3. They are not naïve. 4. Most important… They LOVE each other.
Through many twists and turns Oriana and Gabriel ‘s story takes us on an exquisite love story ride as they conquer one obstacle after another to learn what it means to be a couple in the “outside” world. We get to catch up with many of our favorite Kiwi friends and families as we watch Oriana and Gabriel learn to live the modern, New Zealand life style and at the same time preserve the best of themselves.
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
September 1, 2022
Another wonderful and unique romance set in New Zealand by Rosalind James. In the New Zealand Ever After series, the author has been focusing on men and women who are working their way through adversity, building their lives, and finding love. Like Daisy in Kiwi Strong, the main characters in Kiwi Sin have managed to leave the cult, and are now discovering the world outside. They are each trying to find a new life.
Kiwi Sin is Oriana and Gabriel's story. Unlike her sisters who also fled the cult, Oriana is not interested in higher education or an ambitious career. Oriana is shy and soft spoken. She doesn't love school, but prefers working with her hands, and creating. Oriana loves to cook, knit, design and sew clothes, and work with babies and animals.
Gabriel is a builder whose talents and hard work are prized outside the cult, and he is taking classes to improve those skills, and qualify to become a foreman. He is striving to understand and fit into the outside world.
It's amazing to watch Oriana really come into her own, carve a personal space where her creativity and hard work can thrive. As Oriana and Gabriel's relationship grows, they struggle against their families' expectations. Kiwi Sin is uplifting for the reader as we watch them successfully find a way to build a life together
I love that the story of Kiwi Sin is interwoven with that of the previous New Zealand Ever After stories, though they are each standalone stories. Revisiting some much loved characters from the previous books, and watching how their stories connect with that of Oriana, Gabriel, and their families lives is a real treat.
I highly recommend Kiwi Sin, I can't wait to listen to the audiobook!
Kiwi Sin is Oriana and Gabriel's story. Unlike her sisters who also fled the cult, Oriana is not interested in higher education or an ambitious career. Oriana is shy and soft spoken. She doesn't love school, but prefers working with her hands, and creating. Oriana loves to cook, knit, design and sew clothes, and work with babies and animals.
Gabriel is a builder whose talents and hard work are prized outside the cult, and he is taking classes to improve those skills, and qualify to become a foreman. He is striving to understand and fit into the outside world.
It's amazing to watch Oriana really come into her own, carve a personal space where her creativity and hard work can thrive. As Oriana and Gabriel's relationship grows, they struggle against their families' expectations. Kiwi Sin is uplifting for the reader as we watch them successfully find a way to build a life together
I love that the story of Kiwi Sin is interwoven with that of the previous New Zealand Ever After stories, though they are each standalone stories. Revisiting some much loved characters from the previous books, and watching how their stories connect with that of Oriana, Gabriel, and their families lives is a real treat.
I highly recommend Kiwi Sin, I can't wait to listen to the audiobook!
September 2, 2022
There are a couple of things about Kiwi Sin that would make me think it’s not my cuppa. The characters are very young (I’m not) and they are escapees from an extreme cult. However, I really enjoyed this story – I really should know better by now – I’ve been reading everything Rosalind James writes for years. We met Daisy from the Mount Zion cult in the other books in the Kiwi series and she, along with her partner, Gray and their friends, are determined to help others start a new life outside. Gabriel is a builder and a hard worker and he’s such a good person. Oriana is a great cook and seamstress and loves doing all the domestic things. She feels pressure to do something more “worthwhile”. Rosalind does such a good job of getting in their heads and showing their thoughts on what it must have been like to grow up in this restrictive cult and then be out in the world and able to do whatever you want. Some of them go a little wild – understandably – but while Gabriel enjoys his newfound freedom, he keeps his beliefs and sense of goodness. It’s very cool that he stays with Drew Callahan, the famous All Black from the Escape to New Zealand series, while he gets on his feet. Oriana is only 16 and while that’s an acceptable age to marry at Mount Zion, not so much on the “outside”. This story is about Gabriel and Oriana and how they come together to make a life for themselves on their terms.
September 12, 2022
This is a book of changes, growth, and young love.
Gabriel and Oriana go through so many changes after leaving Mount Zion, it is sometimes very hard to know how to react Outside, even with help from family members, some of whom have been Outside for a longer time.
Oriana is saved by her oldest sister, and has sisters to support her, but they are so different, sometimes it can be hard for her to react how she truly feels. She loves a lot of the “women’s” jobs that aren’t supposed to be what she wants Outside, she doesn’t like school or other more “modern” activities that her sisters love to participate in, which makes it harder to relate to them. She doesn’t want to “make something of herself” in the same way her siblings want.
Gabriel, in some ways, doesn’t have to change as much from the “men’s” work that he did at Mount Zion. He does embrace some changes and they are, in some ways, easier for him. He does construction work, which is not a huge change from what he did previously. He makes a friend who helps him quite a bit, even if they are a bit of an odd fit.
Watching the two of them grow into themselves, and each other is amazing to read and “witness”. This truly is a book that grows into young love and continues to have close knit families, expanding to include friends and blend the two main families.
Get your tissues ready because this one will have you fluctuating between laughing.
September 11, 2022
Wow what a book! I was completely captivated with this story from page 1 right to the end.
Kiwi Sin is book 5 in the New Zealand Ever After series and tells the story of Daisy’s younger sister Oriana as she leaves Mount Zion, a religious facility where she has grown and lived her whole life. Along with her family and others who leave the Mount Zion community, the ‘Outside’ is a strange place to be with differing values and opinions to those who have been in Mount Zion, and it was this - the way Oriana and Gabriel, the male MC navigate their new lives that kept me riveted.
Rosalind James writes this very well-researched book with her usual love of all things kiwi, we meet much-loved familiar characters from previous books in this series and in her Rugby series, which is always a delight. However, Gabriel and Oriana really steal the show with their innocence, their maturity and their personal growth as they discover what really matters in the world outside of Mount Zion. Family, mana and love. What a book, what a story! I definitely recommend, however please note this romance is less steamy than previous Rosalind James books and deals with confronting issues that the Mount Zion community deal with. One of my new favourites from this author, who continues to write amazing books that bring all the emotions to her readers. I learned a lot from reading Kiwi Sin and I hope for more in this series.
Kiwi Sin is book 5 in the New Zealand Ever After series and tells the story of Daisy’s younger sister Oriana as she leaves Mount Zion, a religious facility where she has grown and lived her whole life. Along with her family and others who leave the Mount Zion community, the ‘Outside’ is a strange place to be with differing values and opinions to those who have been in Mount Zion, and it was this - the way Oriana and Gabriel, the male MC navigate their new lives that kept me riveted.
Rosalind James writes this very well-researched book with her usual love of all things kiwi, we meet much-loved familiar characters from previous books in this series and in her Rugby series, which is always a delight. However, Gabriel and Oriana really steal the show with their innocence, their maturity and their personal growth as they discover what really matters in the world outside of Mount Zion. Family, mana and love. What a book, what a story! I definitely recommend, however please note this romance is less steamy than previous Rosalind James books and deals with confronting issues that the Mount Zion community deal with. One of my new favourites from this author, who continues to write amazing books that bring all the emotions to her readers. I learned a lot from reading Kiwi Sin and I hope for more in this series.
September 5, 2022
I have been a fan of Rosalind James, since she wrote her first book in the Just... series in 2013. I love how they take place in New Zealand (putting this on my bucket list), the All-Blacks, the Kincaids and much more! Well this book as usual, doesn't disappoint.
We have met Daisy from the Mount Zion cult in the other books, she and her partner, Gray and their friends, make it their mission to help others start a new life "outside". Gabriel is a hard worker and becomes a builder on the outside. Oriana loves to cook for her family and do all domestic things. Rosalind does a good job of showing their ideas on what it must have been like to grow up in this horrible cult and then be out in the world and able to do and wear what you want. Some of them go a little crazy, but Gabriel sticks to his beliefs. I love that Gabriel stays with Drew Callahan, the famous All Black rugby player from the Escape to New Zealand series, until he is ready to be on his own. Oriana is only 16 and even though its expected at that age to marry at Mount Zion, it's not legal on the “outside”. This story is about Gabriel and Oriana and their sweet relationship. I cannot wait for Rosalind's next book. She always leaves you wanting more!
We have met Daisy from the Mount Zion cult in the other books, she and her partner, Gray and their friends, make it their mission to help others start a new life "outside". Gabriel is a hard worker and becomes a builder on the outside. Oriana loves to cook for her family and do all domestic things. Rosalind does a good job of showing their ideas on what it must have been like to grow up in this horrible cult and then be out in the world and able to do and wear what you want. Some of them go a little crazy, but Gabriel sticks to his beliefs. I love that Gabriel stays with Drew Callahan, the famous All Black rugby player from the Escape to New Zealand series, until he is ready to be on his own. Oriana is only 16 and even though its expected at that age to marry at Mount Zion, it's not legal on the “outside”. This story is about Gabriel and Oriana and their sweet relationship. I cannot wait for Rosalind's next book. She always leaves you wanting more!
August 29, 2022
Kiwi Sin is Oriana and Gabriel’s book. We first met Oriana in book 1 (then Obedience) and Kiwi Sin follows her and Gabriel after they have both escaped life in the Mt Zion cult as they attempt to build new lives on the “Outside”. They’re lucky enough to receive the generous help of two retired star rugby players, heroes of earlier Rosalind James books. They struggle, persevere, and learn how to live a modern New Zealand life. This book is the slowest slow burn, but the story would not be as genuine otherwise. We need to see them grow as individual characters before they can grow together as a couple. This isn’t a trope I would normally want to pick up and read, but Rosalind has shown time and time again that she can write about sensitive topics with empathy and understanding. The age gap in this story would be icky if not for Rosalind’s timing. She shows time and time again that quiet strength present in all her NZ books. Rosalind writes distinct characters who feel like real individuals, and the story doesn’t always come across as fiction, though that HEA is always present. Start at book 1 and keep reading, because Kiwi Sin is absolutely the best in the series so far.
September 3, 2022
I couldn’t put this book down! The topic was not one that I often read (creating a life in the world after only living in a manipulative and misogynistic cult). Things that we take for granted are examined and explored through innocent and inexperienced eyes.
Rosalind James’s “Kiwi Sin” is about freedom: freedom of choice, freedom from oppression, freedom from fear (how relevant in this day and age!).
It is also about different people’s perceptions of what freedom means to them; and allowing people to make their own choices! No matter your background, a person’s true qualities prevail—capacity to love, kindness, honor, honesty, and sense of family. This story has it all: drama, family, friendships, romance, and humor!
The story focuses on the slow-building relationship between two cult survivors, Gabriel and Oriana, and how they navigate their new lives, their families, and the pressure to straddle, cherry-pick or outright reject two disparate worlds. “Kiwi Sin” is engrossing and enthralling, Plus, it has the added bonus of the appearance of well-loved characters from some of James’s other books. It’s like seeing old friends! This wonderful story is a must read!
Rosalind James’s “Kiwi Sin” is about freedom: freedom of choice, freedom from oppression, freedom from fear (how relevant in this day and age!).
It is also about different people’s perceptions of what freedom means to them; and allowing people to make their own choices! No matter your background, a person’s true qualities prevail—capacity to love, kindness, honor, honesty, and sense of family. This story has it all: drama, family, friendships, romance, and humor!
The story focuses on the slow-building relationship between two cult survivors, Gabriel and Oriana, and how they navigate their new lives, their families, and the pressure to straddle, cherry-pick or outright reject two disparate worlds. “Kiwi Sin” is engrossing and enthralling, Plus, it has the added bonus of the appearance of well-loved characters from some of James’s other books. It’s like seeing old friends! This wonderful story is a must read!
September 8, 2022
3.5 stars
So.....When you're living a fundamentalist lifestyle/belief system, the pressure is on to marry early--for obvious reasons, as voiced and demonstrated by this couple. The opposition from their families did not ring true to my personal experience. Their marriage would have been majorly encouraged, not opposed. And trying to marry him off to the other younger woman--with no interest evidenced by him--was just weird. Sorry, but nope. Very unlikely.
The age difference between the two would not be unusual, nor would many people within the group even comment on it. Getting married at 17 is not that odd. Your parents would encourage you to wait until 18 but its not super uncommon to marry at 17. If anything, he'd be having all kinds of people trying to match make him, since he's so "old".
But, other than that, it was a good story.
And I liked both the main characters. I thought her drive to succeed and save for her future using her housewifely skills was authentic. I see a lot of female entrepreneurship just like this IRL. Kudos for including that. (And p.s. those skills can be pretty lucrative, if you're willing to work hard.)
So.....When you're living a fundamentalist lifestyle/belief system, the pressure is on to marry early--for obvious reasons, as voiced and demonstrated by this couple. The opposition from their families did not ring true to my personal experience. Their marriage would have been majorly encouraged, not opposed. And trying to marry him off to the other younger woman--with no interest evidenced by him--was just weird. Sorry, but nope. Very unlikely.
The age difference between the two would not be unusual, nor would many people within the group even comment on it. Getting married at 17 is not that odd. Your parents would encourage you to wait until 18 but its not super uncommon to marry at 17. If anything, he'd be having all kinds of people trying to match make him, since he's so "old".
But, other than that, it was a good story.
And I liked both the main characters. I thought her drive to succeed and save for her future using her housewifely skills was authentic. I see a lot of female entrepreneurship just like this IRL. Kudos for including that. (And p.s. those skills can be pretty lucrative, if you're willing to work hard.)
August 3, 2022
This is such a good book! This is Oriana and Gabriel's story. We met Oriana in Kiwi Strong - the third Book in the New Zealand Ever After series when her big sister Daisy rescues her (then known as Obedience) and her other sister, Frankie (then known as Fruitful) from the cult, Mount Zion, where they had been born and raised. Gabriel also grew up in Mount Zion, the stepson of the prophet's brother. The story begins when more people leave Mount Zion - Gabriel being one of them. This is about two young people who have to learn to live on the "outside" and also learn who they are, and accept their strengths and weaknesses and that they can love each other. Rosalind does a wonderful job showing how difficult the transition from a rigid cult upbringing would be, questioning what they've been taught since birth. I recommend reading the other books in the series first because so many of the characters are in each of the books which adds to my enjoyment of them.
There's humor, drama and romance. Totally my kind of book!
There's humor, drama and romance. Totally my kind of book!
August 31, 2022
Kiwi Sin is many things. It is about starting over when you have absolutely nothing but the clothes you're wearing. It's about finding your feet in an alien world that you know very little about. It's about doing the right thing because anything else would be unthinkable. And then that one special person makes you rethink everything.
Oriana has been around in the previous two books and is one my favourite characters. She is quirky and funny, and sometimes unsure of herself and this strange new life, but she knows what she wants and ultimately finds her own path.
Gabriel is just good and kind and noble, and oh such a beautiful soul. So in love with Oriana but so determined to do right by her.
Not always an easy story, it contains discussions about oppressive patriarchy, marital abuse, and sexual abuse / harassment (no graphic descriptions of sexual violence).
As always Ms James made me laugh and ugly cry and hold my breath at times. But, as always when I read one of her books, the world just seems a bit better and brighter.
Oriana has been around in the previous two books and is one my favourite characters. She is quirky and funny, and sometimes unsure of herself and this strange new life, but she knows what she wants and ultimately finds her own path.
Gabriel is just good and kind and noble, and oh such a beautiful soul. So in love with Oriana but so determined to do right by her.
Not always an easy story, it contains discussions about oppressive patriarchy, marital abuse, and sexual abuse / harassment (no graphic descriptions of sexual violence).
As always Ms James made me laugh and ugly cry and hold my breath at times. But, as always when I read one of her books, the world just seems a bit better and brighter.
September 2, 2022
I'm pretty sure I call most Rosalind James books my favorite Rosalind James book but in all honesty, this may be her best book yet (and I've liked them all).
This book captures the uncertainties of youth and magnifies them by about 100. The reader views the world through the lens of two young people who are just now learning how to maneuver every day life outside of a cult. The characters of Oriana and Gabriel are an interesting combination of vulnerable and strong. They are never weak but they both carry wounds from the past with them that affects how they see themselves and how they see the world around them.
Despite their youth and inexperience in making their own choices, I always believed that the regard they held for each other was genuine and built on a strong foundation of mutual respect and caring about the other's needs. They truly want what is best for the other.
I loved seeing the journey of the Gabriel and Oriana into the world and towards each other and recommend this book highly for anyone who enjoys romance and a well written book.
This book captures the uncertainties of youth and magnifies them by about 100. The reader views the world through the lens of two young people who are just now learning how to maneuver every day life outside of a cult. The characters of Oriana and Gabriel are an interesting combination of vulnerable and strong. They are never weak but they both carry wounds from the past with them that affects how they see themselves and how they see the world around them.
Despite their youth and inexperience in making their own choices, I always believed that the regard they held for each other was genuine and built on a strong foundation of mutual respect and caring about the other's needs. They truly want what is best for the other.
I loved seeing the journey of the Gabriel and Oriana into the world and towards each other and recommend this book highly for anyone who enjoys romance and a well written book.
September 2, 2022
I'll be totally honest - I was very skeptical about how much I would enjoy this book when I realized that Oriana, the main character, is only 17 - because Rosalind James writes some *really* steamy books. But what James also does incredibly well is finds a brand new story to tell that is not only entertaining, but fantastically engaging. For me, this was more contemporary novel than romance novel, touching on the realities of life during and after living in a cult. For a work of fiction, it was incredibly realistic and enlightening and I enjoyed every bit of it.
Mount Zion was introduced during Daisy's story, Kiwi Strong. And through several books in this series, we learned about the violent life in the compound as well as how hard it was to break free. But this particular book took it to an entirely elevated level, when Oriana and Gabriel both have to come to terms with the dichotomy of liking parts of their life in the compound and feeling pressure to adjust to the Outside in ways that were expected of them.
Mount Zion was introduced during Daisy's story, Kiwi Strong. And through several books in this series, we learned about the violent life in the compound as well as how hard it was to break free. But this particular book took it to an entirely elevated level, when Oriana and Gabriel both have to come to terms with the dichotomy of liking parts of their life in the compound and feeling pressure to adjust to the Outside in ways that were expected of them.
September 9, 2022
Another winner from Rosalind!
I must admit that I was skeptical at first with the age difference between Oriana and Gabriel. Wondering, how is Rosalind going to pull this off?! Well she did it..and how!
This is a heartwarming, heartfelt story of two young people robbed from their youth, growing up in a cult. Rosalind covered every question- the way they were brought up to think so differently- all of the feelings, observations, and the honesty of really knowing their true selves even if it didn’t conform to any one else’s idea of normal.
I loved reading about all the food and was so glad that the recipes were at the end of the book! I also enjoyed learning about the Alpacas and how Oriana started her own business selling the beautiful garments that she created. Links in the book for those as well!
I felt that I truly met the whole extended family with all of their different personalities and visited some familiar favorites.
Kiwi Sin can stand alone, but please read the whole series! You’ll be glad you did and may learn a thing or two!
I must admit that I was skeptical at first with the age difference between Oriana and Gabriel. Wondering, how is Rosalind going to pull this off?! Well she did it..and how!
This is a heartwarming, heartfelt story of two young people robbed from their youth, growing up in a cult. Rosalind covered every question- the way they were brought up to think so differently- all of the feelings, observations, and the honesty of really knowing their true selves even if it didn’t conform to any one else’s idea of normal.
I loved reading about all the food and was so glad that the recipes were at the end of the book! I also enjoyed learning about the Alpacas and how Oriana started her own business selling the beautiful garments that she created. Links in the book for those as well!
I felt that I truly met the whole extended family with all of their different personalities and visited some familiar favorites.
Kiwi Sin can stand alone, but please read the whole series! You’ll be glad you did and may learn a thing or two!
August 29, 2022
Ariana has escaped from Mount Zion and is living with her sister,Daisy and Daisy's partner, Gray. Gabriel escapes from the cult later, and is happy to work for Gray and reunite with Ariana whom he has secretly loved for years. Can they overcome their transition to living outside of Mount Zion? Can they make the difficult adjustment to different societal norms? Do they have to to be happy together? Rosalind James once again tackles a complex problem and creates a story that really makes you think about who you are, and how the way you were raised affects your decisions.
You don't have to have read the whole series to appreciate this novel, but doing so enhances your enjoyment as you continue to bump into familiar characters.
If you want to read novels that are more substantive than simple romance, consider the New Zealand Ever After series, or virtually anything by Rosalind James.
You don't have to have read the whole series to appreciate this novel, but doing so enhances your enjoyment as you continue to bump into familiar characters.
If you want to read novels that are more substantive than simple romance, consider the New Zealand Ever After series, or virtually anything by Rosalind James.
September 1, 2022
This journey from Mount Zion to the Outside as seen through Oriana and Gabriel was intense. I felt the fear of leaving the know for the unknown at a visceral level while they were learning to navigate this whole new world with different rules and roles. Their lives are now their own and there are so many decisions and expectations made by themselves and others. My heart broke for them both during this time. So many people telling them what was right and wrong, judging their choices and what they truly craved and wanted, no matter if they were on Mount Zion or Outside. I’m so glad they found the words necessary to start their journey together, that they found who they fit with, “stepped into the sunshine” and worked so hard for their happily ever after. This is a beautiful story and journey filled with characters we love from previous books that are still growing and I can’t wait to continue on the journey Rosalind James is taking us in.
September 4, 2022
Kiwi Sin is another 5 stars Rosalind James read for me!
Book 5 in Ms. James’ New Zealand Ever After, with characters from her Escape to New Zealand series , can also be read as a standalone … but fair warning that you’ll want to immediately download all of her books!
Gabriel and Oriana are a unique couple. Having escaped from Mount Zion, a cult, they are both shell shocked with the outside world and the freedom that they have.
Ms. James has woven a story about family, building a future of your own, courage to tackle challenging situations, and the ability to believe that love can overcome.
As with her other stories, the plot and subplot, filled with deeply emotional and raw scenes, pulled me in immediately and kept me reading long into the night … and the re-read started as soon as I finished.
I received an ARC from the author, but this is my honest review that I’m glad to share with you, a fellow reader!
Book 5 in Ms. James’ New Zealand Ever After, with characters from her Escape to New Zealand series , can also be read as a standalone … but fair warning that you’ll want to immediately download all of her books!
Gabriel and Oriana are a unique couple. Having escaped from Mount Zion, a cult, they are both shell shocked with the outside world and the freedom that they have.
Ms. James has woven a story about family, building a future of your own, courage to tackle challenging situations, and the ability to believe that love can overcome.
As with her other stories, the plot and subplot, filled with deeply emotional and raw scenes, pulled me in immediately and kept me reading long into the night … and the re-read started as soon as I finished.
I received an ARC from the author, but this is my honest review that I’m glad to share with you, a fellow reader!
September 12, 2022
2.5 stars = ok. This starts with the rescue of Daisy's siblings and others from the cult. The leads are 17 year old Oriana and 24 year old Gabriel. This didn't really work for me. I just couldn't get over the age difference -yes, Gabriel is very sweet and as naive to the outside world as she is and, yes, she has already been adulting in the cult, but this would have worked better for me if he'd been a few years younger and if she'd shown the maturity to wait a few more months at the minimum to finish school. Even without that much of the story is them separately finding their way in the world and not the author's typical romance. The parts with them learning about separately learning about sex was awkward. There was less of NZ as a costar here as well, but there are tons of cameos from the author's previous books - the best part of the story was 9 year old Jack (Drew's son) teaching Gabriel how to navigate the world outside the cult.
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