What do you think?
Rate this book
Escape to New Zealand #2
Just Good Friends
Some bets were made to be lost.
Kate Lamonica isn't Koti James's type. Too small. Too dark. And heaps too much work. So it's an easy bet that he can be her friend for six weeks without making a move on her, no matter what his mates would have said.
Kate can't believe she's made the bet at all. New Zealand had seemed like the perfect escape from the stalker who'd threatened first her peace of mind, and then her life. She certainly doesn't need any more trouble. Why on earth has she agreed to spend time with a Maori rugby player who's far too handsome and charming for his own good — and knows it?
But there's more than one game Koti's good at playing...
Note: This STAND-ALONE romance, like New Zealand, contains some steam. If that isn't your cuppa, maybe visit another country ... er, book.
Kate Lamonica isn't Koti James's type. Too small. Too dark. And heaps too much work. So it's an easy bet that he can be her friend for six weeks without making a move on her, no matter what his mates would have said.
Kate can't believe she's made the bet at all. New Zealand had seemed like the perfect escape from the stalker who'd threatened first her peace of mind, and then her life. She certainly doesn't need any more trouble. Why on earth has she agreed to spend time with a Maori rugby player who's far too handsome and charming for his own good — and knows it?
But there's more than one game Koti's good at playing...
Note: This STAND-ALONE romance, like New Zealand, contains some steam. If that isn't your cuppa, maybe visit another country ... er, book.
294 pages, ebook
First published August 30, 2012
1227 people are currently reading
2899 people want to read
About the author
Rosalind James
55 books1,218 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!"
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
Read
October 11, 2016It would be unfair for me to give this one a rating, when I couldn't even make it to the 30% mark.
- Koti was sexy, charming, playful and entertaining.
- All Blacks. This has All Blacks in it.
- The first chapter was intriguing. Not in-your-face-threatening, it had the anticipation of a threat down to a fine art.
- That heroine is a dickhead. I get she has backstory, but I prefer a character who has some joy and... spark! This one is negative, forces her opinions onto others (including her friends) vocally and openly when she has no idea what she's talking about, and puts her own toxic spin on everything around her. I couldn't stand her. The scene where she rips Koti a new one because he's on 'her beach'? Get this heroine out of my book!
And anyway, it is not her beach. We don't give our foreshore & seabed to tourists, lady... our government already took it off us, thankyouverymuch.
This book is not happening for me. Whatever happens in the next 180 pages, I hope it involves Koti finding a delightful, free spirited woman and having cute Koti babies because in my head, he looks like this, and thus - the world needs to carry on his genetic perfection.
- Koti was sexy, charming, playful and entertaining.
- All Blacks. This has All Blacks in it.
- The first chapter was intriguing. Not in-your-face-threatening, it had the anticipation of a threat down to a fine art.
- That heroine is a dickhead. I get she has backstory, but I prefer a character who has some joy and... spark! This one is negative, forces her opinions onto others (including her friends) vocally and openly when she has no idea what she's talking about, and puts her own toxic spin on everything around her. I couldn't stand her. The scene where she rips Koti a new one because he's on 'her beach'? Get this heroine out of my book!
And anyway, it is not her beach. We don't give our foreshore & seabed to tourists, lady... our government already took it off us, thankyouverymuch.
This book is not happening for me. Whatever happens in the next 180 pages, I hope it involves Koti finding a delightful, free spirited woman and having cute Koti babies because in my head, he looks like this, and thus - the world needs to carry on his genetic perfection.
January 7, 2019
I hated how this book opened, hated the danger that Kate was in, but was glad that she had a safe place to run in her friend Hannah. Kate seemed a bit like a fish out of water when she first landed in New Zeland, part of it seemed to be her still living in fear and part the new country. I did like how Kate quickly settled in. I honestly didn't see the romance between Koti and Kate. Koti was too much of a playboy. I was happy when Kate called him out on his behavior time and time again and their bet had me laughing, especially with what happened the first weekend.
Slowly Koti won me over until he pulled the stupid boneheaded move at the end. I was glad that once again Kate called him out on things and firmly let him know that she didn't want a man like that around her. Loosing that with Kate seemed to throw Koti, something he needed to see and feel for himself. Sure a couple of the guys called him out on things but Koti was too much about himself yet. I was glad when he decided that he needed to talk to Kate, he came at the right time, when Kate needed someone's help very much.
Slowly Koti won me over until he pulled the stupid boneheaded move at the end. I was glad that once again Kate called him out on things and firmly let him know that she didn't want a man like that around her. Loosing that with Kate seemed to throw Koti, something he needed to see and feel for himself. Sure a couple of the guys called him out on things but Koti was too much about himself yet. I was glad when he decided that he needed to talk to Kate, he came at the right time, when Kate needed someone's help very much.
July 20, 2013
3.5 stars
Caveat: I have read the Escape to New Zealand series and this may be my least favorite, but only because I didn't "feel it" for the two protagonists, Kate and Koti. I was spoiled by falling in deep like with the characters in Just This Once and Just For Now (which bookend Just Good Friends).
However, Rosalind James continues to be an author whose books I want to read (even if I'm not taken with the main characters) because of how she treats the reader: as if we're smart and interested in the world around us with a lot of plausible romance and a dash of fun sex. As a bright, highly educated, professional woman, **these** are precisely the kinds of books I want to read. I hate being pandered to, or graphically filled with ridiculous, meaningless sex, or reading books by authors who clearly aren't as bright as I. (sounds horrible but if you're reading a book by Rosalind James you're probably just like me and therefore you'll know how lucky we are she's writing!)
Kate is a petite American woman who was being stalked in California, to save her life flees to NZ on the advice of her former colleague, Hannah (whom we met in the first book of this series, Just This Once), and Hannah's husband, Drew, who help her settle in Auckland. Drew is a professional rugby player, so a big part of his assistance is getting Kate's resume into his rugby team's business office (she's an accountant) where she secures a job.
There she meets Koti, a Maori and supposedly gorgeous player -- in both senses of the word (rugby and womanizer). They bicker, figure they can't be friends but make a bet otherwise, that they will become friends, nothing sexual (even though they like the looks of the other).
Kate is prickly, no doubt partly from her scary experiences with her would-be murderer / stalker, but also because she just seems to be that kind of personality. Koti is immature and entitled; he's the only son in a family with three older sisters and a single mother. He is reputedly too handsome for words, so has women dropping at his feet and numerous (and lucrative) endorsement deals capitalizing on his scrumptious appearance. Meaning: he has been repeatedly rewarded for his looks so he takes them (his looks) and people's reaction for granted.
And for me, that's the rub. I just didn't care much for either of them. I didn't *dis*like them, but I wasn't taken with either of them. Probably in real life I'd get a kick out of Kate and her feistiness and we'd be friends, and wouldn't give Koti a second thought (although if he's so handsome I might give him a second *look*).
I loved the amount of dialogue, extended, real-seeming and real-sounding dialogue these two had. Loved it. I love reading how the characters come to like and fall in love with one another, and in this book I could really see it. We never have to fill in any blanks -- it's clear they are physically attracted to one another (again, credit the author), but due to the thoughtful conversations they have throughout, we witness and totally understand Kate and Koti falling in love.
Rosalind James writes dialogue so fantastically: in each of her books I've now read I can hear each character and they really have their own voice and are consistent not just throughout the book, but throughout the series (as they tend to pop up in the other books, too). My biggest nit(s) about Just This Once is (are) that we didn't get enough of Hannah and Drew's conversations, especially as they conducted a long-distance relationship for a while, and we also didn't get enough of Drew's perspective (except toward the end which was super). I don't have that issue with Just Good Friends -- we get to be a fly on the wall both to their conversations and also to Koti and his thoughts and thought processes. That's why his immaturity and entitlement make sense and we're able to root for him to figure it out even though he's acted somewhat stupidly.
Another boon to Just Good Friends is how much we get to learn about Maori culture and the (young) history of NZ -- it never felt like a history lesson from the author, or being hit over the head with the "healthy stuff" (as opposed to the "good stuff"). Rather, it was presented in their dialogue, with Koti being understandably proud of his heritage and both sharing with and informing foreigner Kate of mores. What a treat to have learned so much about New Zealand and the Maori culture in such a fun, entertaining way.
Needless to say, Kate and Koti both lose (or win?) the bet, becoming good friends and then becoming lovers. There is more sex and it's more graphic in this book than in Just This Once, maybe than in the other books, too (? have to think about it). In general I enjoy reading well-written sex scenes but a few seemed a little out of character for Kate who is actively recovering from being stalked, but who knows? As Kate herself says after one encounter she surprised herself by liking it, so maybe Koti brings it out in her.
My favorite parts of the book, though, are getting to revisit Hannah and Drew from Just This Once. The extended scene where Hannah is due to give birth is my favorite section of the book, which is telling (to me). And truthfully, if just for that the book is worth it. It's also worth it for learning about NZ's history and the Maori culture. As I wrote, I just wasn't that invested in Kate and Koti either individually or as a couple, but I happily kept reading for both the reasons mentioned above and also because I love a dialogue-heavy book.
Caveat: I have read the Escape to New Zealand series and this may be my least favorite, but only because I didn't "feel it" for the two protagonists, Kate and Koti. I was spoiled by falling in deep like with the characters in Just This Once and Just For Now (which bookend Just Good Friends).
However, Rosalind James continues to be an author whose books I want to read (even if I'm not taken with the main characters) because of how she treats the reader: as if we're smart and interested in the world around us with a lot of plausible romance and a dash of fun sex. As a bright, highly educated, professional woman, **these** are precisely the kinds of books I want to read. I hate being pandered to, or graphically filled with ridiculous, meaningless sex, or reading books by authors who clearly aren't as bright as I. (sounds horrible but if you're reading a book by Rosalind James you're probably just like me and therefore you'll know how lucky we are she's writing!)
Kate is a petite American woman who was being stalked in California, to save her life flees to NZ on the advice of her former colleague, Hannah (whom we met in the first book of this series, Just This Once), and Hannah's husband, Drew, who help her settle in Auckland. Drew is a professional rugby player, so a big part of his assistance is getting Kate's resume into his rugby team's business office (she's an accountant) where she secures a job.
There she meets Koti, a Maori and supposedly gorgeous player -- in both senses of the word (rugby and womanizer). They bicker, figure they can't be friends but make a bet otherwise, that they will become friends, nothing sexual (even though they like the looks of the other).
Kate is prickly, no doubt partly from her scary experiences with her would-be murderer / stalker, but also because she just seems to be that kind of personality. Koti is immature and entitled; he's the only son in a family with three older sisters and a single mother. He is reputedly too handsome for words, so has women dropping at his feet and numerous (and lucrative) endorsement deals capitalizing on his scrumptious appearance. Meaning: he has been repeatedly rewarded for his looks so he takes them (his looks) and people's reaction for granted.
And for me, that's the rub. I just didn't care much for either of them. I didn't *dis*like them, but I wasn't taken with either of them. Probably in real life I'd get a kick out of Kate and her feistiness and we'd be friends, and wouldn't give Koti a second thought (although if he's so handsome I might give him a second *look*).
I loved the amount of dialogue, extended, real-seeming and real-sounding dialogue these two had. Loved it. I love reading how the characters come to like and fall in love with one another, and in this book I could really see it. We never have to fill in any blanks -- it's clear they are physically attracted to one another (again, credit the author), but due to the thoughtful conversations they have throughout, we witness and totally understand Kate and Koti falling in love.
Rosalind James writes dialogue so fantastically: in each of her books I've now read I can hear each character and they really have their own voice and are consistent not just throughout the book, but throughout the series (as they tend to pop up in the other books, too). My biggest nit(s) about Just This Once is (are) that we didn't get enough of Hannah and Drew's conversations, especially as they conducted a long-distance relationship for a while, and we also didn't get enough of Drew's perspective (except toward the end which was super). I don't have that issue with Just Good Friends -- we get to be a fly on the wall both to their conversations and also to Koti and his thoughts and thought processes. That's why his immaturity and entitlement make sense and we're able to root for him to figure it out even though he's acted somewhat stupidly.
Another boon to Just Good Friends is how much we get to learn about Maori culture and the (young) history of NZ -- it never felt like a history lesson from the author, or being hit over the head with the "healthy stuff" (as opposed to the "good stuff"). Rather, it was presented in their dialogue, with Koti being understandably proud of his heritage and both sharing with and informing foreigner Kate of mores. What a treat to have learned so much about New Zealand and the Maori culture in such a fun, entertaining way.
Needless to say, Kate and Koti both lose (or win?) the bet, becoming good friends and then becoming lovers. There is more sex and it's more graphic in this book than in Just This Once, maybe than in the other books, too (? have to think about it). In general I enjoy reading well-written sex scenes but a few seemed a little out of character for Kate who is actively recovering from being stalked, but who knows? As Kate herself says after one encounter she surprised herself by liking it, so maybe Koti brings it out in her.
My favorite parts of the book, though, are getting to revisit Hannah and Drew from Just This Once. The extended scene where Hannah is due to give birth is my favorite section of the book, which is telling (to me). And truthfully, if just for that the book is worth it. It's also worth it for learning about NZ's history and the Maori culture. As I wrote, I just wasn't that invested in Kate and Koti either individually or as a couple, but I happily kept reading for both the reasons mentioned above and also because I love a dialogue-heavy book.
September 18, 2018
I listened to this Audible this week & finished today 9/15/18.
Wow. I can't believe that I waited this long to listen to the audible version. I remember Rosalind James mentioning how happy she was with Claire Bocking's narration of her books. As the Kiwi say, "Too Right!". Her voice is perfect. She does the NZ accent perfectly (IMHO) and she lowers her voice to do the male voices too- especially Koti's. It's been 5 years since I read this & I still want to run away to New Zealand (I've read the entire Escape series). For the last couple of months, I'v been listening to an Audible book while reading a regular kindle book. The Audible version helped me get more of the details that I had missed before. I did understand more of Kate's dilemma with being battered & stalked by her ex. That was always looming over Kate & Koti's friends to lovers story. Koti is very low key but he appreciates Kate's "warrior heart" (she's like a bull dog that doesn't back down). I loved the Maori history and visits with Koti's family (especially his sisters).
Great ending and epilogue. I'll have to check out the other Escape to NZ Audible books.
Great job Claire Bocking! And as always, Rosalind James! *** I'm bumping this up to 5 stars! (below is my original review)
************
4.5*. I like this one better than the first. Kate, an American moves to New Zealand to get away from her abusive ex. Her friend is Hannah (from book 1). Koti, is a hunky Rugby star who meets his match with feisty (of course!) Kate. A couple of times Kate is a little OTT with the fiestiness, but oh well, Koti needs to be put in his place, right? right! (most of the time). More great NZ scenery. A little rugby. No insta-love. The set up was really cute. Koti and Kate's chemistry was pretty good. I hope that they show up in the next book--I'm starting on it now.
Wow. I can't believe that I waited this long to listen to the audible version. I remember Rosalind James mentioning how happy she was with Claire Bocking's narration of her books. As the Kiwi say, "Too Right!". Her voice is perfect. She does the NZ accent perfectly (IMHO) and she lowers her voice to do the male voices too- especially Koti's. It's been 5 years since I read this & I still want to run away to New Zealand (I've read the entire Escape series). For the last couple of months, I'v been listening to an Audible book while reading a regular kindle book. The Audible version helped me get more of the details that I had missed before. I did understand more of Kate's dilemma with being battered & stalked by her ex. That was always looming over Kate & Koti's friends to lovers story. Koti is very low key but he appreciates Kate's "warrior heart" (she's like a bull dog that doesn't back down). I loved the Maori history and visits with Koti's family (especially his sisters).
Great ending and epilogue. I'll have to check out the other Escape to NZ Audible books.
Great job Claire Bocking! And as always, Rosalind James! *** I'm bumping this up to 5 stars! (below is my original review)
************
4.5*. I like this one better than the first. Kate, an American moves to New Zealand to get away from her abusive ex. Her friend is Hannah (from book 1). Koti, is a hunky Rugby star who meets his match with feisty (of course!) Kate. A couple of times Kate is a little OTT with the fiestiness, but oh well, Koti needs to be put in his place, right? right! (most of the time). More great NZ scenery. A little rugby. No insta-love. The set up was really cute. Koti and Kate's chemistry was pretty good. I hope that they show up in the next book--I'm starting on it now.
August 28, 2020
4 stars. I really enjoyed this book! Listened to it on audible escapes, and I'm really appreciating the narrator more and more with each book.
This is the story of Kate & Koti, and it's a little more serious than the previous stories in this series. Kate moves to NZ to run away from her absolutely crazy stalker of an ex. She's friends with Hannah (from book 1) and asks for her help to get away. Ofc Hannah helps Kate relocate, and she eventually gets settled with her own apartment and a job in accounting with the rugby team that Hannah's husband plays on. She soon meets Koti, and they get off on a very wrong foot. She's skittish after her stalker experiences and finds him to be intimidating and scary. They run into each other a few times and she thinks he might be stalking her, but eventually she calms down enough to see the error of her ways. They do continue to argue quite a bit though, they are both pretty outspoken, and she tells him how she feels very freely. In one such argument, they make a bet. She bets that he wouldn't be able to just be friends with a woman without hitting on her, or trying to make it into more. He bets that he could, and offers to become friends with Kate for several weeks to prove himself. Thus begins their rocky friendship, which slowly morphs into something more. They do eventually get their HEA.
Probably safe for most; hero continues to hook up with OW after meeting the heroine. She sees a woman leaving his house one morning and him kissing her. He is also constantly pursued by OW throughout the book, but stays faithful to the heroine once they are officially together. Also, stalking, physical assault, death threats.
This is the story of Kate & Koti, and it's a little more serious than the previous stories in this series. Kate moves to NZ to run away from her absolutely crazy stalker of an ex. She's friends with Hannah (from book 1) and asks for her help to get away. Ofc Hannah helps Kate relocate, and she eventually gets settled with her own apartment and a job in accounting with the rugby team that Hannah's husband plays on. She soon meets Koti, and they get off on a very wrong foot. She's skittish after her stalker experiences and finds him to be intimidating and scary. They run into each other a few times and she thinks he might be stalking her, but eventually she calms down enough to see the error of her ways. They do continue to argue quite a bit though, they are both pretty outspoken, and she tells him how she feels very freely. In one such argument, they make a bet. She bets that he wouldn't be able to just be friends with a woman without hitting on her, or trying to make it into more. He bets that he could, and offers to become friends with Kate for several weeks to prove himself. Thus begins their rocky friendship, which slowly morphs into something more. They do eventually get their HEA.
Probably safe for most; hero continues to hook up with OW after meeting the heroine. She sees a woman leaving his house one morning and him kissing her. He is also constantly pursued by OW throughout the book, but stays faithful to the heroine once they are officially together. Also, stalking, physical assault, death threats.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2018
First listen/third read. Argumentative relationships, I mean passionate relationship, are not among my usual reads but this one got me through laundry day with a smile.
*****
This book improves upon second reading. Koti James is great character that will have you searching Pinterest for Maori men; you want to believe someone that well rounded exists. What sets this series apart is the travel log of exotic places in New Zealand and the ubiquitous Maori/Polynesian culture.
July 20, 2014
OMG that was painful, so not a correct portrayal of NZ as a whole. Yep the author captured our indigenous people, how they speak, their beliefs and heritage, and the Treaty of Waitangi which dates back to the 1800's.
This story is full of explanations of what the following are - Iwi, Mana, Whaneu, Taniwha (powerful spirits) Maori Mokos, legends and myths, and of course our renown sport Rugby. So if you are looking for a story on NZ Maori history you will probably love this story.
I gave it 3 stars as all in all it was well written and edited, just not at all what I expected.
FOOTNOTE - The general population of New Zealand does not start every other sentence with the word "course".
Enough said.
This story is full of explanations of what the following are - Iwi, Mana, Whaneu, Taniwha (powerful spirits) Maori Mokos, legends and myths, and of course our renown sport Rugby. So if you are looking for a story on NZ Maori history you will probably love this story.
I gave it 3 stars as all in all it was well written and edited, just not at all what I expected.
FOOTNOTE - The general population of New Zealand does not start every other sentence with the word "course".
Enough said.
August 2, 2015
This book started a bit slow but got better and better in terms of plot, character development, and setting as it went along. I really enjoyed it. I really like plots that deal with what I call the beauty burden--when you are too good looking. This book deals with this plot wonderfully.
July 27, 2016
Really enjoy this entire series... lovely accents (Kiwi!) and I think they are sports romance stories done nicely. I'm MUCH more interested in rugby than I ever was before! Happy re-read series makes me happy.
December 12, 2012
Super fun book - great story! Takes place in beautiful New Zealand and I feel like I made a trip there myself!
I'm an American who never gets to venture and explore very far from home. So, I read to learn and experience life in other places. So often, though, the "flavor" of a certain venue tends to get watered down with editing until I may as well be reading about someone living across the street from my house.
It's almost a crime that I should have learned so much about a particular place and culture while being so fully entertained. Immersed in an interesting story with characters I immediately loved...LEARNING about everything En Zen, rugby, Miori and a little on Australia too.
Since our main character was a new transplant from America, she had a lot to learn. She makes friends with a native, a Maori man, Koti, who loves to share his Maori culture. Songs, places, history, customs. He also points out some of her social faux pas - behavior unacceptable in En Zen.
I must inclue my favorite fact about En Zen - it is unlawful to sue for damages! Hearing that as an American created a great deal of thought on my end! Can you even imagine a world free of frivilous law suits? Awesome.
5 brainy stars on this one. I did not realize this book was part of a series until I had already started this one, which is number 2 of the series. I'll be going back to the first book, which I happen to have on my kindle and will certainly continue on as far as it goes. LOVED THIS BOOK!
I'm an American who never gets to venture and explore very far from home. So, I read to learn and experience life in other places. So often, though, the "flavor" of a certain venue tends to get watered down with editing until I may as well be reading about someone living across the street from my house.
It's almost a crime that I should have learned so much about a particular place and culture while being so fully entertained. Immersed in an interesting story with characters I immediately loved...LEARNING about everything En Zen, rugby, Miori and a little on Australia too.
Since our main character was a new transplant from America, she had a lot to learn. She makes friends with a native, a Maori man, Koti, who loves to share his Maori culture. Songs, places, history, customs. He also points out some of her social faux pas - behavior unacceptable in En Zen.
I must inclue my favorite fact about En Zen - it is unlawful to sue for damages! Hearing that as an American created a great deal of thought on my end! Can you even imagine a world free of frivilous law suits? Awesome.
5 brainy stars on this one. I did not realize this book was part of a series until I had already started this one, which is number 2 of the series. I'll be going back to the first book, which I happen to have on my kindle and will certainly continue on as far as it goes. LOVED THIS BOOK!
July 1, 2014
I've been devouring this series and I thought I'd better write something before I get to far away from this book. I find it so interesting that so many reviews gave this 3 or fewer stars. My sister recommended this series because she couldn't put it down and now I'm the same way. I'm reading the 4th book as I write this. "Just Good Friends" is my favorite so far. Cheers to Rosalind James for bringing these stories to life!
February 11, 2022
Really really love this series!!!
October 8, 2019
3.5 Stars
I really love these Kiwi hotties that Rosalind James writes. Listening on audio makes it all that much hotter. Claire Bocking does a great job with the accents and male character voices.
I loved everything about Koti. Was he perfect? No. But, he was an all around good guy that just happened to be the baby and only boy of his family. He was spoiled a bit but it didn't make him a bad person. To hear Kate tell it though he was awful. She really got to me a lot in the beginning. Almost to the point that I stopped reading. She was in your face abrasive, insulting and judgmental, but any time Koti would defend himself she would go off on him like he was some kind of predator. I get she had a past. I get she had a horrifyingly scary past, but she had a mom and dad that were still happily married. You can't tell me that she couldn't see that not all men were dangerous and demeaning. She even admitted she was always prickly. Besides half the things she got mad at Koti for she did too. It was just okay for her but not him.
Thank goodness I stuck to it. Once Kate gave into her feelings for Koti she eased up. She even learned to say she was sorry after she jumped to conclusions. But, God bless Koti for finding all of that prickliness sexy. Yeesh!
I really love these Kiwi hotties that Rosalind James writes. Listening on audio makes it all that much hotter. Claire Bocking does a great job with the accents and male character voices.
I loved everything about Koti. Was he perfect? No. But, he was an all around good guy that just happened to be the baby and only boy of his family. He was spoiled a bit but it didn't make him a bad person. To hear Kate tell it though he was awful. She really got to me a lot in the beginning. Almost to the point that I stopped reading. She was in your face abrasive, insulting and judgmental, but any time Koti would defend himself she would go off on him like he was some kind of predator. I get she had a past. I get she had a horrifyingly scary past, but she had a mom and dad that were still happily married. You can't tell me that she couldn't see that not all men were dangerous and demeaning. She even admitted she was always prickly. Besides half the things she got mad at Koti for she did too. It was just okay for her but not him.
Thank goodness I stuck to it. Once Kate gave into her feelings for Koti she eased up. She even learned to say she was sorry after she jumped to conclusions. But, God bless Koti for finding all of that prickliness sexy. Yeesh!
October 9, 2020
Well it was nice to travel to New Zealand for a few days even if it was just through a book! This story followed the usual romance formula. Boy and girl meet, argue, become friends and you get the rest. But Koti and Kate were likeable and they made the story enjoyable. You did learn a lot about the culture of this country which was a plus.
May 19, 2016
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Not because I liked Koti (the H in this story) more than I liked Drew. I did, however, like Kate, the h, more than I liked Hannah. I also think I'm getting used to the NZ lingo and James' writing style, which definitely contributed to my overall enjoyment of this story. Overall, this was a story with a traumatized h and an H who needed to decide if he wanted to grow up and become a man. It was an oddly compelling story and I was surprised by how much I did enjoy it.
What I liked:
1) The h. She wasn't perfect by any means, but I understand that she was traumatized. Her fear and paranoia felt real. She was trying to make the best of her situation and she tried to be so brave. I'm also glad that She also stood up to Koti when he was being jerk to her. Maybe she was a little blunt, but she spoke the truth to him and I admired that. She wasn't some simpering or socially awkward h. She staved off his advances too, and I can really appreciate that as well. She gave reasonable answers to why she didn't want to get involved with him. How many stories are out there where the h just "couldn't resist him?" Ugh. The h is the reason I'm giving this book the third star.
2) The relationship between the MCs developed for weeks (which in the romance genre is ages) before any intimacy occurred.
3) Even though I didn't like the H much, he did have some redeeming qualities. He wasn't a malicious person, but he did live to please himself. If something he did pleased someone else too, that was fine, but he wasn't going to inconvenience himself to accomplish that. Wait, how did this turn into me criticizing this character? Maybe this should be in the What I didn't like section.
4) The pace of the story was nice. There wasn't too much drama. Most of this book felt like reading an everyday love story, instead of one with a famous athlete and drama.
5) The scenes with Drew and Hemi.
6) The history of the Maori. I enjoyed reading it even though I know a lot of it already.
What I didn't like:
1) The H. OK. Here's the deal. He's a man in a child's body, a manchild, if you will. He's spoiled and used to getting everything he wants when he wants it. Sounds like a great boyfriend, right? Eh, no. (See what I did there?) Anyway, when the MCs had their spat, he starts thinking to himself that he's better off and maybe he should go and seek "companionship" with someone who's easier to deal with. Lovely, right? No. I honestly felt bad for the h that she loved someone like that. He has a lot of growing up to do if they're going to seriously have their HEA.
2) The turning point of this story happened to quickly and easily.
3) How often the h mentioned that the H was incredibly handsome. Yeah, we get it already. I thought she didn't want him to get an even bigger head about it?
What I liked:
1) The h. She wasn't perfect by any means, but I understand that she was traumatized. Her fear and paranoia felt real. She was trying to make the best of her situation and she tried to be so brave. I'm also glad that She also stood up to Koti when he was being jerk to her. Maybe she was a little blunt, but she spoke the truth to him and I admired that. She wasn't some simpering or socially awkward h. She staved off his advances too, and I can really appreciate that as well. She gave reasonable answers to why she didn't want to get involved with him. How many stories are out there where the h just "couldn't resist him?" Ugh. The h is the reason I'm giving this book the third star.
2) The relationship between the MCs developed for weeks (which in the romance genre is ages) before any intimacy occurred.
3) Even though I didn't like the H much, he did have some redeeming qualities. He wasn't a malicious person, but he did live to please himself. If something he did pleased someone else too, that was fine, but he wasn't going to inconvenience himself to accomplish that. Wait, how did this turn into me criticizing this character? Maybe this should be in the What I didn't like section.
4) The pace of the story was nice. There wasn't too much drama. Most of this book felt like reading an everyday love story, instead of one with a famous athlete and drama.
5) The scenes with Drew and Hemi.
6) The history of the Maori. I enjoyed reading it even though I know a lot of it already.
What I didn't like:
1) The H. OK. Here's the deal. He's a man in a child's body, a manchild, if you will. He's spoiled and used to getting everything he wants when he wants it. Sounds like a great boyfriend, right? Eh, no. (See what I did there?) Anyway, when the MCs had their spat, he starts thinking to himself that he's better off and maybe he should go and seek "companionship" with someone who's easier to deal with. Lovely, right? No. I honestly felt bad for the h that she loved someone like that. He has a lot of growing up to do if they're going to seriously have their HEA.
2) The turning point of this story happened to quickly and easily.
3) How often the h mentioned that the H was incredibly handsome. Yeah, we get it already. I thought she didn't want him to get an even bigger head about it?
February 3, 2014
Four stars.
The main characters in Just Good Friends are Kate, an accountant, and Koti, a rugby player. Kate is strong and wary. A bit of a contradiction there I know. She's so wary because she has honestly lived through a nightmare. But she doesn't let that stop her from living her life, which is why I believe she's so strong. Koti is charming and a bit cocky. He's cocky because he believes he's this great rugby player. And don't get me wrong. He is. But his cockiness is a little bit overwhelming. Especially with women. The chemistry between Kate and Koti is strong. I find it a bit weird because they are both so different. But I guess that old line was right. Opposites do attract. Although they have chemistry, Kate doesn't want to get involved with Koti. And the main reason for that has to do with her past. Considering what she went through in her past, I completely understand. I wouldn't want to be jumping into any relationships either. But when Kate finally decides to throw caution to the wind, the sex scenes are great. Tender and hot. The other scenes with Kate and Koti are hilarious. Kate and Koti can't seem to stop insulting each other and it makes me laugh. The secondary characters of Hannah, Drew, Reka, and Hemi add a lot to the characters. Hannah and Drew are so sweet and protective of Kate. Drew has no problem setting Koti straight about Kate, which makes me laugh. Such a protective man there. (Loved catching up with Hannah and Drew by the way.) And Hemi. Hemi was great with Koti. So sweet how he would give advice to him. Especially that one scene when they were arguing over Kate. (Also loved catching up with Reka and Hemi.)
The concept of the book and the series is still interesting to me. I mean, anything about rugby interests me. The plot was well-written and it kept me reading. I finished the book in a little over a day.
Overall, the book was good. As I have stated, I live in the U.S. and have no knowledge of New Zealand other than what I have learned in school. I cannot say whether any of the information about New Zealand is accurate. Other than that, it was an enjoyable read.
I would recommend this book.
The main characters in Just Good Friends are Kate, an accountant, and Koti, a rugby player. Kate is strong and wary. A bit of a contradiction there I know. She's so wary because she has honestly lived through a nightmare. But she doesn't let that stop her from living her life, which is why I believe she's so strong. Koti is charming and a bit cocky. He's cocky because he believes he's this great rugby player. And don't get me wrong. He is. But his cockiness is a little bit overwhelming. Especially with women. The chemistry between Kate and Koti is strong. I find it a bit weird because they are both so different. But I guess that old line was right. Opposites do attract. Although they have chemistry, Kate doesn't want to get involved with Koti. And the main reason for that has to do with her past. Considering what she went through in her past, I completely understand. I wouldn't want to be jumping into any relationships either. But when Kate finally decides to throw caution to the wind, the sex scenes are great. Tender and hot. The other scenes with Kate and Koti are hilarious. Kate and Koti can't seem to stop insulting each other and it makes me laugh. The secondary characters of Hannah, Drew, Reka, and Hemi add a lot to the characters. Hannah and Drew are so sweet and protective of Kate. Drew has no problem setting Koti straight about Kate, which makes me laugh. Such a protective man there. (Loved catching up with Hannah and Drew by the way.) And Hemi. Hemi was great with Koti. So sweet how he would give advice to him. Especially that one scene when they were arguing over Kate. (Also loved catching up with Reka and Hemi.)
The concept of the book and the series is still interesting to me. I mean, anything about rugby interests me. The plot was well-written and it kept me reading. I finished the book in a little over a day.
Overall, the book was good. As I have stated, I live in the U.S. and have no knowledge of New Zealand other than what I have learned in school. I cannot say whether any of the information about New Zealand is accurate. Other than that, it was an enjoyable read.
I would recommend this book.
July 23, 2013
I was a little disappointed with this one.
I liked that it took place in New Zeeland but at no point could I relate with the characters, their story left me rather cold.
A book with about 290 pages is normally a short read for me, because I can finish it in no time, but this one just dragged on and on with nothing exciting to happen...
The conversation between Kate and Koti felt staccato and unemotional to me and I could not understand what was so special about them, that made them fall in love for each other.
What I did like, because it was something different from what I have read lately, was that there where no sex scenes in fully detail.
I have gathered so much information from my past reads, that I could easily fill in the blanks.
This is part of a series from this author, but each book can be read as a stand-alone.
At this point in my life I do not feel the need to continue with it...
I liked that it took place in New Zeeland but at no point could I relate with the characters, their story left me rather cold.
A book with about 290 pages is normally a short read for me, because I can finish it in no time, but this one just dragged on and on with nothing exciting to happen...
The conversation between Kate and Koti felt staccato and unemotional to me and I could not understand what was so special about them, that made them fall in love for each other.
What I did like, because it was something different from what I have read lately, was that there where no sex scenes in fully detail.
I have gathered so much information from my past reads, that I could easily fill in the blanks.
This is part of a series from this author, but each book can be read as a stand-alone.
At this point in my life I do not feel the need to continue with it...
November 14, 2012
I bought this book after reading the free download of her first novel, Just This Once and instantly fell in love with the entire series. Ms. James certainly does not disappoint in this book as Koti and Kate both work through their own personal issues as their relationship grows.
This one is a little bit darker than the others as Kate is running from a violent past that catches up to her in the climax of the story.
I appreciate that Ms. James takes the time to fully develop her characters and plotlines. She doesn't fall into the trap where emotional problems are solved within a chapter and everyone is in love in the span of 2 days.
If you read this, you will be reading the others!
This one is a little bit darker than the others as Kate is running from a violent past that catches up to her in the climax of the story.
I appreciate that Ms. James takes the time to fully develop her characters and plotlines. She doesn't fall into the trap where emotional problems are solved within a chapter and everyone is in love in the span of 2 days.
If you read this, you will be reading the others!
June 16, 2015
This is the second book in the series that I have read, and it definitely makes me want to go on vacation to New Zealand. It sounds like a fun and beautiful place to visit, and it is interesting because the female MC is from America, so there is a switching off of American terminology and their terminology. I think I like this book a bit better than the first for a couple reasons. Kate was a much stronger character, she had sass and wit , And I like that. Also Cody was less of a super hero and more of a man, with all the problems that go along with that. This was a good love story, with fun characters, and a beautiful setting, with a good ending.
February 19, 2013
I liked her first book in this series better. This one took a little longer for the story to develop. Although this one did delve into Maori culture more and explain more of the history of the Maoris and NZ. She does however mention more towns and locations on the North Island in this book than she did in her first book. Reading her books makes me want to go back to En Zed again.
November 26, 2012
I came across this completely by chance as a free book on amazon and now I'm hooked on the series. What's not to like, strong female characters, hot, beefy rugby players and a faraway land! The descriptions of Koti's arms is enough to keep me reading.
September 25, 2012
I read the first one and loved it so much I immediately bought and read the second book. I am happy to say I enjoyed this one just as much as the first book.
April 15, 2013
Couldn't finish it. Beginning was good but then dialogue and writing got bad.
October 15, 2016
Sweet
Fun and sweet...enjoyed the book. Loved the characters and how they struggled but made it through it. Great book to read.
Fun and sweet...enjoyed the book. Loved the characters and how they struggled but made it through it. Great book to read.
November 15, 2016
It's official. I am moving to New Zealand! I love me some Koti. He is charming, flirty and oh so sexy. I've never really been a fan of sports romance but I am loving this series.
March 3, 2023
Just Good Friends
Rating: C-
TWO
Rating: C-
TW: Ahead lies discussion of violence against women, and stalking/obsessive behavior.
I’m so conflicted, y’all.
You know what I’m talking about. You find a book, read a blurb, know the author and think to yourself, yes, this is what I need right now.
Then you read it and say to yourself, eh, maybe it’s just a slow start. Give it a few. And then you get halfway through, and you think, well, it’s not that I hate it. And then you get near the end, and you push through it because, well, you’ve nearly finished it, haven’t you?
Unfortunately, Just Goods Friends left me feeling this way. Disappointed and unfulfilled. Like eating macaroni and cheese from the deli. Not cheesy enough to be the real stuff, and distinctly lacking in the artificial flavoring required for nostalgia. There are some redeeming qualities, which I’ll discuss, which saved it from a D rating.
This isn’t the first Rosalind James book I’ve read. Perhaps that’s why Just Good Friends left me with such mild dissatisfaction. I picked up her most recent title, Kiwi Rules, and loved it. Smart, driven heroine. Hunky, empathetic, hero. Great hook, too — he’s a veteran and an amputee. She’s just been pushed out of the startup she’d invested her twenties into and lost her fiancée in the bargain. (It’s good, you guys. The hero cries after they have sex. There’s emotional growth and side characters with personalities!)
After Kiwi Rules, I picked up Just Come Over. Also very enjoyable. Lots of catnip in that book. A hero who’s forty. A heroine who is his widowed sister-in-law. Plot moppets so cute and vulnerable and strong that you just want to give them a cuddle. (Also quite a delightful read. Not quite as rich as Kiwi Rules, but still quite satisfying).
On a roll, and looking for some spice to flavor my next read, I evaluated Ms. James’ catalog and settled on Just Good Friends. The premise was strong on this one. The leads grate on one another when they first meet, so that should have resulted in some witty banter. There’s a bet that forces them to spend time with one another. The heroine is hiding out from a violent stalker. The hero is Maori, and that plays a large part in his character and identity. It’s a slow burn romance (theoretically – I’ll elaborate in a minute), taking place over several months and with the idea that the two leads slowly come to fall in love despite their best intentions.
Sign me up. Lots to work with, right?
Right?
Well, perhaps too much.
But before I start my critique, I think I should point out the parts that kept me slogging through the story, all the way to the bland ending.
First (as you may have guessed), this story is set in Auckland, New Zealand, and features a romance between the American Kate and a local Kiwi rugby superstar, Koti James.
“Nice try. Still waiting for my apology.” She crossed her arms, the toe of one high heel tapping.
“What am I apologizing for again? I’ve forgotten by now. Better remind me, make sure I don’t do it again.”
“Very funny. You’re apologizing for being a possessive jerk. Which you know very well.”
He stepped towards her, gently pried loose her hands and held them in his own. “I’m sorry I fancy you so much that I can’t stand the thought of other fellas hanging around. Because you’re making my life dead uncomfortable right
“That’s it? That’s your big apology?”
“Yeh, that’s it,” he said. She continued to scowl, and he decided it wasn’t.
James, Rosalind. Just Good Friends (Escape to New Zealand Book 2) (p. 173). Bellbird Publishing. Kindle Edition.
Ladies (and gents), I am into this. This should be great. We get tons of great elements in this story. Kate is never TSTL – too stupid to live. She flees to the other side of the globe to escape her stalker, letting only her parents know where she is. She maintains a low profile, works with a therapist to learn how to get past the trauma and terror that have ruled her world, and is an accountant. Hooray for accountants, who help us and always get disparaged in novels.
Koti is model-beautiful, way too full of himself, but smart and emotionally-aware (sometimes). He was raised by a single mom and three older sisters, all of whom are teachers. Women fall at his feet on an hourly basis, but the only woman he’s interested in is this American who won’t give him the time of day.
And yet…
There are other elements of the story to love, too. We get a ton of exposition on En Zed, Maori culture, and how that can impact your everyday life. Because Kate is an American there for a year, we get lots of helpful insight from side characters and Koti himself. This American reader learned a bunch (take your shoes off when you come inside and don't lean against the counters). I now want to go to New Zealand for reasons other than Lord of the Rings and the hope of meeting someone with Taika Waititi’s sense of humor. We learn what blackwater rafting is (I want to do it!), some day-in-the-life tidbits, and more exposure to rugby than this Yank ever thought she’d enjoy.
So why does this story fall so flat for me?
I’ve narrowed it down to about three reasons, all of which I think I can attribute to this being a pretty early title in Ms. James’ library.
ONEThe story is stretched over too long of a time frame, with no strong plot devices to bridge us between the introduction and the conclusion. This is a 7-month slow burn. Seven. Months. That’s a long time for a slow burn romance to smolder.
And yet Koti and Kate first fall into bed at about 40% of the way through the book. And while that can work in a slow burn romance, there was no tension. We don’t get any of the tummy-twisting Elizabeth/Mr. Darcy feelings, where we can tell he’s way into her and she’s in denial. There’s no sense that Kate’s holding a big piece of herself back due to self-doubt and self-preservation. You know, where the leads self-sabotage because they’re too in their heads to realize that real, life-long love is just one moment of vulnerability away.
It’s just, oh, they sort of don’t like each other and then okay, they’re sort of into each other and then alright, now they’re having cringey sex.
And I don’t want to mislead you. The sex is…eh. I don’t want to harp on this, but let’s say I’ve read books where the sex is implied to be hot in a way that’s got you feeling a bit warm. I’ve read books that have been explicit enough that you would feel kinky to have someone read them over your shoulder. And then there’s sex like this, which is neither wickedly explicit nor intriguingly vague.
“I’m bad for you. And that’s good, because you’re a bad, bad girl yourself. That’s why you needed that. And why you need this.”
James, Rosalind. Just Good Friends (Escape to New Zealand Book 2) (p. 124). Bellbird Publishing. Kindle Edition.
That’s supposed to be dirty talk and we’re told Kate finds it unbearably sexy, but call me the Night King because it just leaves me ice cold.
TWO
The stakes aren’t immediate or appropriate. From the stalker who looms over Kate’s plotline to the lackluster stakes for their bet, this book seems to lack the kind of drivers you would expect from a romantic suspense. Let’s start with the bet:
“But I’ll take that bet, that you can’t do six weeks of friendship. What are the stakes?”
“If I win, you give me a big kiss in the office, in front of all the staff. And tell me how wonderful I am.”
“Right. That’s happening. But since I know you won’t win, I’m not worrying. And if I win, which I am counting on, by the way…Let me think.” She stood for a minute, looking abstracted. Geez, she was intense. “I know,” she decided.
“When I win, you wear a pink hoodie. All day, except when you’re actually practicing.”
He winced. “That’d be dead embarrassing. Reckon I’d better win”
James, Rosalind. Just Good Friends (Escape to New Zealand Book 2) (p. 124). Bellbird Publishing. Kindle Edition.
That’s it. That’s the bet. He’s got to wear a hoodie. She has to give him a kiss and tell him how wonderful he is. Are you still awake? Because I’m feeling a bit done in, myself.
This bet is the hook, you guys. That’s what’s supposed to get us invested in seeing this develop into a love/hate relationship for the ages.
It’s like two six-year-olds set the stakes. Let’s just do a little thought experiment. What’s a harmless, yet embarrassing, stake they could have set? I’ll start. What about setting a one-month punishment, forcing Kate to hang a Koti poster in her cubicle for everyone in the office to see, change her desktop to a shirtless picture of him, and perhaps use an “I love Koti” mug. And how much flak do you think Koti would catch in the locker room if he were forced to rock a different, colorful pedicure for four weeks?
And that leads me to discussing the stalker. As far as stalkers go, I was alright with this one. There's none of those awful POVs from him, which I appreciate. However, James does a mediocre job of incorporating the threat he presents into our narrative. At one point, I wondered if we'd ever get to him at all. For me, there was little-to-no suspense in this romantic suspense, because his threat felt so removed from much of the story.
We meet Kate well after she’s realized how dangerous he is, and has started taking steps to deal with the aftermath. Just because she flees across the globe, does not mean Kate gets sloppy. She sees a therapist. She locks her door the minute she leaves the house. She does her best to stay out of pictures and out of social media. We're told that her stalker is violent, it’s serious, and Kate eloquently and succinctly explains why she acts the way she does. We get passages like this:
“So now you know. That’s what I did. I ran away. As far and as fast as I could go. Brave, huh?”
“Yeh,” he told her, squeezing her hand. “Yeh, I do think it was brave. I think it was amazing. You were in that kind of danger, and you thought about keeping the people you loved safe. I’m sure your parents wanted you to stay with them, that they would’ve done anything to protect you. Instead, you protected them. And to make a plan like you did, under that kind of stress, and then to come here alone and start over. All that took courage. More courage than most people will ever have.”
James, Rosalind. Just Good Friends (Escape to New Zealand Book 2) (p. 124). Bellbird Publishing. Kindle Edition.
Pretty good, right? Don’t get too excited, because we then get this at about 80%:
SPOILER
“You wouldn’t really want me to put myself at risk, would you? Just so you’re not bored at some banquet?”
“Nah,” he grumbled. “Course I wouldn’t. If you really think there’s still a risk, of course you should stay home. But I don’t want some secret girlfriend that I can’t take out.”
“You don’t want me?” she asked, startled. “If I can’t go out with you?”
“Didn’t say that,” he sighed. “Sorry. It’s hard for me to believe there’s still any danger, though. Not after all this time. I think you might be overreacting, don’t you?”
James, Rosalind. Just Good Friends (Escape to New Zealand Book 2) (p. 258). Bellbird Publishing. Kindle Edition.
Fuck you, Koti. Fuck you very much.
THREEThe editing was not critical enough.
This book was unpalatable to read because it was so damn jumpy. You’d get jumps between POVs that were one, two, five paragraphs long, all in the same chapter. Most of these jumps could have been eliminated or reintroduced naturally as exposition in better scenes. The result is a book that both feels like it’s dragging and is purposeless, despite the looming threat of a stalker.
There’s a moment of tension between Koti and Kate, too, that’s introduced far too late in the story. It could have worked as a tension-builder, something to cause the reader to fret over as the plot line loomed closer and closer to its reveal. Instead, it’s introduced and revealed in too short a time-span, robbing the story of tension and making Koti out to be, well, a child.
That, perhaps, was what I saw as the fatal flaw for this series. I liked Kate, I did. She was rational, tough, and smart. She took risks to broaden her horizons, took introspective looks at herself, and set hard limits on what she would tolerate.
But Koti was just….meh. He has moments of interest, which almost always boiled down to discussions on his heritage (interesting, and yet still not a good enough reason to root for this hero). On the whole, he was immature, spoiled, self-deceptive, and not even close to living up to the hype of what we’re told he is. He’s supposed to be charming, cocky, gorgeous, swoony.
Mostly, I just found him to be self-absorbed. That’s why I’ve tacked that minus onto the C. The book was mediocre enough throughout, but Koti’s behavior near the end had me rooting against a HEA.
With a more critical editor, I think this book could be really enjoyable. There’s a lot of elements to love about it. Kate is great, and Koti could have developed into the kind of too-full-of-himself hero I enjoy watching being cut down by the right woman.
It would need some major reworking, though, to rescue it from its current state.
In the meantime, check out some of Rosalind James’ more recent works. Since this book, at least, she’s written some truly enjoyable tales set in En Zed, featuring better romance, better heroes, and much better sex (thank god). Aside from the titles mentioned above, I absolutely adored Just Say (Hell) No. I think it's, hands down, my favorite of her titles. And don't write off James' romantic suspense chops, either, because Guilty as Sin is a great book despite its heinous cover.
And if you're in the mood for more Kiwi Media, I highly recommend What We Do in the Shadows (I believe it's included in the US Amazon Prime) and Hunt for the Wilderpeople.
November 27, 2025
Just Good Friends by Rosalind James is about Kate, a woman fleeing a dangerous stalker, who relocates to New Zealand only to find herself entangled in a bet with Koti, a charismatic Māori rugby star: they agree to try being just friends for six weeks. What starts as a challenge becomes an unexpected journey where fear, trust, and attraction collide, leading them toward a possibility of love.
From the first pages, I was drawn into Kate’s world, nervous, wary, cautious. Her fear isn’t just a dramatic backdrop; it has weight. She’s escaped a violent ex‑stalker, and the trauma shapes her distrust, her vigilance, and even her dreams. I found her resilience and vulnerability moving. Meanwhile, Koti bursts in with swagger, confidence, and a certain recklessness he's that stereotypical charming rugby player who’s used to attention and assumes what he wants comes easily. The tension between their personalities, Kate's guarded wariness vs Koti's cocky ease creates a constant friction that makes their evolving relationship feel organic rather than forced. I often found myself rooting for Kate to heal a little, to find space for hope, and for Koti to show that beneath his assumptions there might be someone capable of empathy and respect.
The writing has a lively, sometimes sassy tone, the banter between Kate and Koti is sharp and entertaining, their misunderstandings and slow thaw feel believable. And the New Zealand setting, the backdrop of Kate’s new life adds color: it’s more than just scenery, it feels like a space of possibility and reinvention. The novel doesn’t rush their development; it takes time to let trust build, and that gives weight to their emotional arc when things begin to shift. On the downside: there are moments when Koti’s immaturity shows through in ways that can feel jarring, especially compared to Kate’s trauma‑shaped psychological scars. That imbalance made some of his actions hard to reconcile even by the end.
I came away from this story feeling hopeful, for healing, for second chances, for love that isn’t perfect but still worth risking for. It’s a romance that acknowledges fear and recovery, and doesn’t demand either character be flawless to find connection. If you appreciate slow‑burn romance with emotional stakes, with flawed people learning boundaries, this book delivers a story that’s messy, human, and tender.
Rating: 4/5 — I loved the emotional honesty, the grow‑slow romance, and the setting; I docked a half star because Koti’s flaws sometimes feel uneven against Kate’s trauma, which may leave some readers wanting a more balanced growth for both.
From the first pages, I was drawn into Kate’s world, nervous, wary, cautious. Her fear isn’t just a dramatic backdrop; it has weight. She’s escaped a violent ex‑stalker, and the trauma shapes her distrust, her vigilance, and even her dreams. I found her resilience and vulnerability moving. Meanwhile, Koti bursts in with swagger, confidence, and a certain recklessness he's that stereotypical charming rugby player who’s used to attention and assumes what he wants comes easily. The tension between their personalities, Kate's guarded wariness vs Koti's cocky ease creates a constant friction that makes their evolving relationship feel organic rather than forced. I often found myself rooting for Kate to heal a little, to find space for hope, and for Koti to show that beneath his assumptions there might be someone capable of empathy and respect.
The writing has a lively, sometimes sassy tone, the banter between Kate and Koti is sharp and entertaining, their misunderstandings and slow thaw feel believable. And the New Zealand setting, the backdrop of Kate’s new life adds color: it’s more than just scenery, it feels like a space of possibility and reinvention. The novel doesn’t rush their development; it takes time to let trust build, and that gives weight to their emotional arc when things begin to shift. On the downside: there are moments when Koti’s immaturity shows through in ways that can feel jarring, especially compared to Kate’s trauma‑shaped psychological scars. That imbalance made some of his actions hard to reconcile even by the end.
I came away from this story feeling hopeful, for healing, for second chances, for love that isn’t perfect but still worth risking for. It’s a romance that acknowledges fear and recovery, and doesn’t demand either character be flawless to find connection. If you appreciate slow‑burn romance with emotional stakes, with flawed people learning boundaries, this book delivers a story that’s messy, human, and tender.
Rating: 4/5 — I loved the emotional honesty, the grow‑slow romance, and the setting; I docked a half star because Koti’s flaws sometimes feel uneven against Kate’s trauma, which may leave some readers wanting a more balanced growth for both.
March 8, 2022
I liked how the heroine made him work hard for her affection and didn't immediately fall into his lap (even though he was surprised she wouldn't).
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
They make a secret bet that he can't be her friend for 6 weeks without trying to sleep with her (she's the new employee/accountant on the team). The first day he is supposed to meet her to go swimming he doesn't come. He is off sleeping with another woman.
He doesn't have her cell number but calls a teammate to get it, who won't give it to him. She refuses to give him another chance, even though he apologizes. She says he lost the bet the first day.
She eventually gives him another chance and they go swimming and surfing and cave water rafting and hiking. Finally they both agree they want each other and have sex. The hero makes mistakes all the time but eventually realizes he loves her.
So he wears a pink hoodie (since he lost the bet) and goes to the office and offers her his heart.
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER
They make a secret bet that he can't be her friend for 6 weeks without trying to sleep with her (she's the new employee/accountant on the team). The first day he is supposed to meet her to go swimming he doesn't come. He is off sleeping with another woman.
He doesn't have her cell number but calls a teammate to get it, who won't give it to him. She refuses to give him another chance, even though he apologizes. She says he lost the bet the first day.
She eventually gives him another chance and they go swimming and surfing and cave water rafting and hiking. Finally they both agree they want each other and have sex. The hero makes mistakes all the time but eventually realizes he loves her.
So he wears a pink hoodie (since he lost the bet) and goes to the office and offers her his heart.
April 12, 2018
Not bad but just ok - 2.5*
Another american girl meeting up with a member of New Zealand's All Blacks. Kate is hiding out after a bad experience with a stalker back at home. Koti is a super good looking playboy who instantly rubs her the wrong way. They end up trying to be friends and eventually fall in love.
Another american girl meeting up with a member of New Zealand's All Blacks. Kate is hiding out after a bad experience with a stalker back at home. Koti is a super good looking playboy who instantly rubs her the wrong way. They end up trying to be friends and eventually fall in love.
July 30, 2025
I love the way this author mixes romances into a New Zealand (and rugby) educational read, I feel like I learn so much while also being entertained.
Book two of the Escape to New Zealand series is a quick read and the last twenty five percent of the book was difficult to put down. I enjoyed the enemies, to friends, to lovers trope and the 'real' feeling to the characters. I wasn't sure how Koti was ever going to redeem himself from the way he starts off in this book, but he did. I will definitely read on.
Book two of the Escape to New Zealand series is a quick read and the last twenty five percent of the book was difficult to put down. I enjoyed the enemies, to friends, to lovers trope and the 'real' feeling to the characters. I wasn't sure how Koti was ever going to redeem himself from the way he starts off in this book, but he did. I will definitely read on.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews