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Escape to New Zealand #0.5
Just For You
No shirt, no shoes, no … problems?
Hemi Ranapia isn’t looking for love. Fun, yes. Love, not so much. But a summer fishing holiday to laid-back Russell could turn out to be more adventure than this good-time boy ever bargained for.
Reka Harata hasn’t forgotten the disastrously hot rugby star she met a year ago, no matter how much she wishes she could. Too bad Hemi keeps refusing to be left in her past.
Sometimes, especially in New Zealand’s Maori Northland, it really does take a village. And sometimes it just takes a little faith.
NOTE: This 36,000-word (120-page) novella begins about six years before the events of JUST THIS ONCE, and yes, it gets a little steamy at times, because Reka and Hemi are just that way. It can be read as a stand-alone book, even if this is your first escape to New Zealand.
Hemi Ranapia isn’t looking for love. Fun, yes. Love, not so much. But a summer fishing holiday to laid-back Russell could turn out to be more adventure than this good-time boy ever bargained for.
Reka Harata hasn’t forgotten the disastrously hot rugby star she met a year ago, no matter how much she wishes she could. Too bad Hemi keeps refusing to be left in her past.
Sometimes, especially in New Zealand’s Maori Northland, it really does take a village. And sometimes it just takes a little faith.
NOTE: This 36,000-word (120-page) novella begins about six years before the events of JUST THIS ONCE, and yes, it gets a little steamy at times, because Reka and Hemi are just that way. It can be read as a stand-alone book, even if this is your first escape to New Zealand.
120 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2014
93 people are currently reading
758 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!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
April 12, 2019
I totally enjoyed this little gem.
Only 120 pages but had more heart than most books twice that length.
Reka knows Hemi. Well, she knows him intimately but since he never called her after their ONS...
They meet again at the start of the story and Hemi damns himself in the eyes of the reader by not even remembering her name.
Don't worry, he redeems himself.
It's been a year since their ONS and Hemi has changed. Things were going on in both their lives a year ago and I was able to understand that it's probably better that they had that time before trying a relationship.
The story ends with a wonderful epilogue.
I loved the writing and the reader, Claire Blocking does a fantastic New Zealand accent.
I look forward to reading/listening to more by this author.
safety is good
Only 120 pages but had more heart than most books twice that length.
Reka knows Hemi. Well, she knows him intimately but since he never called her after their ONS...
They meet again at the start of the story and Hemi damns himself in the eyes of the reader by not even remembering her name.
Don't worry, he redeems himself.
It's been a year since their ONS and Hemi has changed. Things were going on in both their lives a year ago and I was able to understand that it's probably better that they had that time before trying a relationship.
The story ends with a wonderful epilogue.
I loved the writing and the reader, Claire Blocking does a fantastic New Zealand accent.
I look forward to reading/listening to more by this author.
safety is good
November 24, 2021
3.5 stars for a sweet prequel novella to the Escape to New Zealand series. I've been on holiday to some of the beautiful places in the book, and this helped me picture the settings and appreciate the book more.
August 28, 2020
3.5 stars. This was a pretty sweet novella, with a little bit of angst mixed in. This couple is pretty prominent in at least books 1 & 2 of this series, so it's worth the read. Once again, I listened to this book, it's available on Audible Escape. And worth listening to over reading, imo.
This is the story of Hemi & Reka, who have a one night stand after attending the same wedding. Hemi never calls Reka, and she feels shitty for letting herself get involved with him. Hemi sees Reka a year later and is immediately interested again. This time however, he wants more, and spends some time trying to win her over. They eventually get a HEA.
This one is safe with exceptions - the heroine is cheated on by her ex, hero has many other partners after his ONS with the heroine (during their 1 year separation), but she has no other partners during that time. He does stay faithful to her after their reunion. There's also a bit of OW drama but it ends up being a misunderstanding.
This is the story of Hemi & Reka, who have a one night stand after attending the same wedding. Hemi never calls Reka, and she feels shitty for letting herself get involved with him. Hemi sees Reka a year later and is immediately interested again. This time however, he wants more, and spends some time trying to win her over. They eventually get a HEA.
This one is safe with exceptions - the heroine is cheated on by her ex, hero has many other partners after his ONS with the heroine (during their 1 year separation), but she has no other partners during that time. He does stay faithful to her after their reunion. There's also a bit of OW drama but it ends up being a misunderstanding.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2025
I was so happy to have found a rugby series and thought I'd start with the 0.5 novella telling the story of Hemi and Reka.
They met at a wedding, they had a ONS, he came back one year later, saw her by accident and thought that he might have had something there and lost it.
My issues with this book:
First, obviously, the ONS.
Second, he came back a year after for a vacation and not because he was seeking her out. So the skeptical me thinks, if he hadn't seen her by accident on a ferry, this novella would have never been.
Third, it is too rushed, the author not giving us time to warm up to either of them.
Fourth, he claims he's changed but then confesses to her that he's not really sure but he would like to try. An MMC who is not assertive is not one I'd like to read.
Fifth, she was all upset and bothered because he didn't call her after their ONS. Girl, when you give yourself that easily to a man he's not interested in a relationship because he already got from you what he wanted, pretty quick.
She's waitressing at a bar and his asshole friend grabs her ass, she slaps him with a rag and they get kicked out by another waiter.
Reka shot Hemi one more look and took herself on over to the next table. He'd probably told Aaron that she was an easy mark. Heaven knew she had been.
He might have had more finesse than his mate, but the idea was the same. Just another sportsman looking to get it quick and easy. Well, he wasn't going to get it from her. Not this time.
Well... if the shoe fits LOL
I mean, this is why I avoid ONS, authors can romanticise them as much as they want but fact of the matter is, women who can't hold their panties for one night and then feel offended when other males think they're easy, well .... just saying 🤷♀️
My personal opinion. It might offend some but everyone is entitled to their own opinion...
I dnfd at 39% because I didn't like the plot and I felt nothing towards either of them.
They met at a wedding, they had a ONS, he came back one year later, saw her by accident and thought that he might have had something there and lost it.
My issues with this book:
First, obviously, the ONS.
Second, he came back a year after for a vacation and not because he was seeking her out. So the skeptical me thinks, if he hadn't seen her by accident on a ferry, this novella would have never been.
Third, it is too rushed, the author not giving us time to warm up to either of them.
Fourth, he claims he's changed but then confesses to her that he's not really sure but he would like to try. An MMC who is not assertive is not one I'd like to read.
Fifth, she was all upset and bothered because he didn't call her after their ONS. Girl, when you give yourself that easily to a man he's not interested in a relationship because he already got from you what he wanted, pretty quick.
She's waitressing at a bar and his asshole friend grabs her ass, she slaps him with a rag and they get kicked out by another waiter.
Reka shot Hemi one more look and took herself on over to the next table. He'd probably told Aaron that she was an easy mark. Heaven knew she had been.
He might have had more finesse than his mate, but the idea was the same. Just another sportsman looking to get it quick and easy. Well, he wasn't going to get it from her. Not this time.
Well... if the shoe fits LOL
I mean, this is why I avoid ONS, authors can romanticise them as much as they want but fact of the matter is, women who can't hold their panties for one night and then feel offended when other males think they're easy, well .... just saying 🤷♀️
My personal opinion. It might offend some but everyone is entitled to their own opinion...
I dnfd at 39% because I didn't like the plot and I felt nothing towards either of them.
January 19, 2018
3.5-4 stars
This was a pretty good story. I've liked Hemi and Reka in the series and have been curious about their story. TBH, it wasn't what I was expecting but I still liked it.
Reka is a teacher and Hemi is a professional Rugby player. They met a year before at a wedding and hit it off. They have a hot night but Hemi is too caught up in Rugby and the women and all that go with it and didn't call her. A year later they meet again and Hemi realizes he made a mistake and wants more with Rika. But now she's unwilling to trust him again. Things start out rocky for the two and there are issues to get past. I liked that they were both willing to make an effort to find out if what they had together could be real. Reka made a leap of faith that would be tough for many to take. I really liked how things ended, with Hemi and Reka heading in to a HEA (which we see come to fruition in the series).
This was a pretty enjoyable story. I like Reka and Hemi and was happy to see how they got their start. Although it is a prequel to the series it can be read as a standalone. Overall it's a quick read that I enjoyed and had no major complaints about. I'd recommend it. :D
This was a pretty good story. I've liked Hemi and Reka in the series and have been curious about their story. TBH, it wasn't what I was expecting but I still liked it.
Reka is a teacher and Hemi is a professional Rugby player. They met a year before at a wedding and hit it off. They have a hot night but Hemi is too caught up in Rugby and the women and all that go with it and didn't call her. A year later they meet again and Hemi realizes he made a mistake and wants more with Rika. But now she's unwilling to trust him again. Things start out rocky for the two and there are issues to get past. I liked that they were both willing to make an effort to find out if what they had together could be real. Reka made a leap of faith that would be tough for many to take. I really liked how things ended, with Hemi and Reka heading in to a HEA (which we see come to fruition in the series).
This was a pretty enjoyable story. I like Reka and Hemi and was happy to see how they got their start. Although it is a prequel to the series it can be read as a standalone. Overall it's a quick read that I enjoyed and had no major complaints about. I'd recommend it. :D
December 21, 2025
Multicultural, "fling to forever" romance novella
Hemi Ranapia and Reka Harata are 20-something Maoris from New Zealand who meet at a Maori wedding in a small town in Northland. They dance for hours at the reception while drinking champagne and end the evening with a one-night stand. For Reka it is a rebellious rebound after a recent bad breakup, and for promiscuous, professional rugby player Hemi, it's just one more in a long string of meaningless flings. When he leaves town the next morning, he doesn't say goodbye, and he doesn't call.
An entire year has passed without a word from Hemi when he returns to Reka's town with a couple of rugby teammates for a few days of rest and recreation. At a local cafe, he accidentally encounters Reka, who is a kindergarten teacher working as a waitress during a school break. She is just as gorgeous as she was before, and he has vivid memories of their previous sexcapades. He is more than ready to amuse himself with her in bed again, to pass the time when he's not fishing and surfing. But Reka has more pride than to cheaply offer herself as his convenient plaything again, and she refuses to have anything to do with him.
Hemi awkwardly tries to make amends and marginally succeeds to the point that Reka invites him to spend time with her in a very public setting, a beach picnic with her large, extended family. She is pleasantly surprised when he is relaxed and friendly with her adult relatives and willingly plays touch rugby with her very young nieces and nephews, who idolize him as an All Black rugby star. His crowning moment of redeeming himself arrives when he helps her save the life of her 5-year-old nephew, who is drowning in the ocean.
I'm not a big fan of the romance trope that's been around for generations now of a promiscuous MMC. It's just not believable to me that a handsome, ripped, rich man, who will be propositioned by women for the rest of his life, can turn on a dime and embrace monogamy. I liked Hemi a lot better as a significant subcharacter in multiple other books in this series.
I did like Reka in this story and in all her other appearances in this series. I liked her extended family as well.
One of the main things I have appreciated about this entire series is the New Zealand setting. It is authentically written as are the rugby scenes.
This novel is not available in ebook format. It is only sold as a trade paperback or as an audiobook. I own the audiobook, which has an excellent female narrator.
Hemi Ranapia and Reka Harata are 20-something Maoris from New Zealand who meet at a Maori wedding in a small town in Northland. They dance for hours at the reception while drinking champagne and end the evening with a one-night stand. For Reka it is a rebellious rebound after a recent bad breakup, and for promiscuous, professional rugby player Hemi, it's just one more in a long string of meaningless flings. When he leaves town the next morning, he doesn't say goodbye, and he doesn't call.
An entire year has passed without a word from Hemi when he returns to Reka's town with a couple of rugby teammates for a few days of rest and recreation. At a local cafe, he accidentally encounters Reka, who is a kindergarten teacher working as a waitress during a school break. She is just as gorgeous as she was before, and he has vivid memories of their previous sexcapades. He is more than ready to amuse himself with her in bed again, to pass the time when he's not fishing and surfing. But Reka has more pride than to cheaply offer herself as his convenient plaything again, and she refuses to have anything to do with him.
Hemi awkwardly tries to make amends and marginally succeeds to the point that Reka invites him to spend time with her in a very public setting, a beach picnic with her large, extended family. She is pleasantly surprised when he is relaxed and friendly with her adult relatives and willingly plays touch rugby with her very young nieces and nephews, who idolize him as an All Black rugby star. His crowning moment of redeeming himself arrives when he helps her save the life of her 5-year-old nephew, who is drowning in the ocean.
I'm not a big fan of the romance trope that's been around for generations now of a promiscuous MMC. It's just not believable to me that a handsome, ripped, rich man, who will be propositioned by women for the rest of his life, can turn on a dime and embrace monogamy. I liked Hemi a lot better as a significant subcharacter in multiple other books in this series.
I did like Reka in this story and in all her other appearances in this series. I liked her extended family as well.
One of the main things I have appreciated about this entire series is the New Zealand setting. It is authentically written as are the rugby scenes.
This novel is not available in ebook format. It is only sold as a trade paperback or as an audiobook. I own the audiobook, which has an excellent female narrator.
January 5, 2019
I thought the couple was just ok in this one. Their issues drove me nuts. But what kept me reading was the setting of New Zealand. I loved how the country was described and will check out the next book.
September 19, 2014
Welcome to New Zealand ... land of Kiwis and everything rugby! In Just For You, the prequel novella to the Escape to New Zealand series, author Rosalind James provides the reader with a wonderful tale of romance that starts the whole series with the story of Hemi Ranapia and Reka Harata.
Just For You provides the reader with a romantic relationship and rugby theme set in New Zealand that continues in each book of the series, it is a happy feel good kind of romance story that simply makes you smile. Written in the third person narrative, the reader follows Hemi and Reka's journey from each of their perspectives as their love story unfolds. The story flows smoothly as Hemi and Reka relationship develops with issues and basic relationship yearnings, steamy interactions, and some dramatic twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the pages.
True to the other books in the series, the author provides the reader with stories that are set in New Zealand and revolve around the popular sport of rugby. The attention to detail and description of New Zealand's history and dialect, and the nuance of the professional game of rugby will peak the reader's interest and imagination.
I enjoyed the author's character development of Hemi and Reka throughout the story. After reading all of the other books in the series, I was so excited and happy to finally get to read this amazing couple's love story. With an interesting cast of characters; engaging dialogue and interactions; and a storyline that mixes humor, drama and romance; Just For You is a heartwarming and enjoyable read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Just For You provides the reader with a romantic relationship and rugby theme set in New Zealand that continues in each book of the series, it is a happy feel good kind of romance story that simply makes you smile. Written in the third person narrative, the reader follows Hemi and Reka's journey from each of their perspectives as their love story unfolds. The story flows smoothly as Hemi and Reka relationship develops with issues and basic relationship yearnings, steamy interactions, and some dramatic twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the pages.
True to the other books in the series, the author provides the reader with stories that are set in New Zealand and revolve around the popular sport of rugby. The attention to detail and description of New Zealand's history and dialect, and the nuance of the professional game of rugby will peak the reader's interest and imagination.
I enjoyed the author's character development of Hemi and Reka throughout the story. After reading all of the other books in the series, I was so excited and happy to finally get to read this amazing couple's love story. With an interesting cast of characters; engaging dialogue and interactions; and a storyline that mixes humor, drama and romance; Just For You is a heartwarming and enjoyable read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
July 31, 2014
This rewritten novella is a must read for anyone who has been loving Rosalind James' Escape to New Zealand Rugby Series. It is Reka's and Hemi's not so cute meet. They are a beloved and well established couple when the main series begins six years after the events of this book with Just This Once
Even if you haven't read the Series, this novella stands on its own as a very good read but you will get much more pleasure from it if you read it after a few of the other books in the series. If you haven't read those books, get to it! You are missing out on a wonderful set of contemporary romances.
Hemi is a great hero who admits mistakes and is in the process of settling into full adulthood. Reka values herself and makes for a simply lovely heroine. We get a Maori couple and to see the role this culture plays in their courtship. We get actual courtship which is rare in Romance these days and much appreciated.
It is a sexy and emotionial read.
I love the additional scenes added into make what was a short storyinto a novella. They really add depth and nuance. If you bought the short story, this novella is worth your money to see the fuller tale.
As always with James, the romance is touchingly truthful and showcases the culture and scenery of New Zealand.
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.
Even if you haven't read the Series, this novella stands on its own as a very good read but you will get much more pleasure from it if you read it after a few of the other books in the series. If you haven't read those books, get to it! You are missing out on a wonderful set of contemporary romances.
Hemi is a great hero who admits mistakes and is in the process of settling into full adulthood. Reka values herself and makes for a simply lovely heroine. We get a Maori couple and to see the role this culture plays in their courtship. We get actual courtship which is rare in Romance these days and much appreciated.
It is a sexy and emotionial read.
I love the additional scenes added into make what was a short storyinto a novella. They really add depth and nuance. If you bought the short story, this novella is worth your money to see the fuller tale.
As always with James, the romance is touchingly truthful and showcases the culture and scenery of New Zealand.
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.
September 18, 2018
Pretty hard for a man to wind it back from a one night stand and no calls, but once Hemi realizes his mistake he’s stuck in to make it right.
My first read/listen and I thought the story was ok and the narration stellar. Love the accents.
January 4, 2022
4 stars
August 17, 2019
I'm glad I read this book after I've read the other Escape From New Zealand books - if I had read this one first, I probably wouldn't have continued with the series. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't as good as the other books in the series. Maybe because it's so short? This book is Hemi Ranapia and Reka Harata's story. Hemi meets Reka at a wedding when he's just starting his rugby career. They hook up at the wedding and Hemi promises to call, but never does. A year later he runs into Reka and, although she looks familiar, he doesn't really remember her. But he is interested now. However, Reka no longer is, and the book is pretty much Hemi trying to convince Reka he's changed and he does want her for longer than one night. 3 stars.
October 4, 2019
*3.25 STARS*
Not my favorite of the series but very enlightening. I always wanted to heave Hemi and Reka's story. Who knew they had so many snags in the beginning. They are so solid in the subsequent books it was hard to envision a time when there weren't together.
My issue with the story was the fact of their big incident that almost broke them up. After how he acted after their first night, I don't understand why he just couldn't see things from her point of view. I'm glad he came to his senses but I felt like they needed to take things slower instead of running forward and full speed.
Anyway, I thought it was pretty good overall and would have liked to see a bit more of them.
Not my favorite of the series but very enlightening. I always wanted to heave Hemi and Reka's story. Who knew they had so many snags in the beginning. They are so solid in the subsequent books it was hard to envision a time when there weren't together.
My issue with the story was the fact of their big incident that almost broke them up. After how he acted after their first night, I don't understand why he just couldn't see things from her point of view. I'm glad he came to his senses but I felt like they needed to take things slower instead of running forward and full speed.
Anyway, I thought it was pretty good overall and would have liked to see a bit more of them.
December 28, 2014
Wow. Five-plus stars. This is a lovely story in which so much of what I love about the “Escape to New Zealand” series is brilliantly pulled together.
I first read the original, short version of this story that appeared in the Boxed Set “It's In His Kiss” and at that time, I felt satisfied with Hemi and Reka's story and thought, why add more? But now that Rosalind James has extended the story by another two-thirds, I' m delighted and grateful she did. This book has all the best of the other books in the Escape to New Zealand stories, and more. It's not only a rich, beautiful story of two people learning to earn each others' trust, but also the first in the series to focus on two Maori characters, and that is beautifully done. We also get glimpses of our favorite characters from the other books, plus a great rugby scene that's about a lot more than sport. This book joins my absolute favorites in the series at the top of a very impressive heap.
I think if this book was written before the others, it might not have been appreciated as much as it can be now that we've gotten to know the story world through the other characters. Non-Kiwi readers like myself might not have been as ready to dive into the world Rosalind James has created for us had this book come first (because Just This Once and other titles give us an American character and therefore a familiar perspective through which to view NZ and rugby), but now, it's just right. I can't recommend it highly enough!
For the record, yes, I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but no, I am not exaggerating when I give this book five stars. It's honestly that good! I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I first read the original, short version of this story that appeared in the Boxed Set “It's In His Kiss” and at that time, I felt satisfied with Hemi and Reka's story and thought, why add more? But now that Rosalind James has extended the story by another two-thirds, I' m delighted and grateful she did. This book has all the best of the other books in the Escape to New Zealand stories, and more. It's not only a rich, beautiful story of two people learning to earn each others' trust, but also the first in the series to focus on two Maori characters, and that is beautifully done. We also get glimpses of our favorite characters from the other books, plus a great rugby scene that's about a lot more than sport. This book joins my absolute favorites in the series at the top of a very impressive heap.
I think if this book was written before the others, it might not have been appreciated as much as it can be now that we've gotten to know the story world through the other characters. Non-Kiwi readers like myself might not have been as ready to dive into the world Rosalind James has created for us had this book come first (because Just This Once and other titles give us an American character and therefore a familiar perspective through which to view NZ and rugby), but now, it's just right. I can't recommend it highly enough!
For the record, yes, I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but no, I am not exaggerating when I give this book five stars. It's honestly that good! I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
November 24, 2014
New Zealand setting contemporary romance with a hot local Rugby player and a kindergarten teacher native lady.
I liked the other books in this series so of course I wanted to read about Hemi and Reka's romance with her smart sassy wife that we meet much later when they already have children like in Just This Once.
This deals with dating a famous sports player with lots of ladies surrounding them as well as cheating and trusting again in this prequel to the New Zealand's Rugby romance series.
100pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
I liked the other books in this series so of course I wanted to read about Hemi and Reka's romance with her smart sassy wife that we meet much later when they already have children like in Just This Once.
This deals with dating a famous sports player with lots of ladies surrounding them as well as cheating and trusting again in this prequel to the New Zealand's Rugby romance series.
100pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
August 23, 2014
Oh my goodness.... I loved the expanded version of this novella. It was a true treat to see how Hemi and Reka came to be together. This is a fun read to be enjoyed by anyone just discovering the Escape series as well as anyone who has joined Ms James on her wonderful trips before.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way and not required to leave a positive review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way and not required to leave a positive review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 11, 2014
I've loved everything I own that Ms James has written. This prequel to the Escape to New Zealand series is no exception. Her characters pull me in, and I learn so much about Maori culture and traditions. I get so invested on the storyline that I don't want to put the book down.
I hope there are more novels in the works...whether about En Zed or the Kincaids or whatever Ms James has up her author sleeve. I'll be in line to buy and read whatever it is!
I hope there are more novels in the works...whether about En Zed or the Kincaids or whatever Ms James has up her author sleeve. I'll be in line to buy and read whatever it is!
August 7, 2014
Hot story with likeable characters and an exotic setting. I really enjoyed it. What I didn't enjoy was the obviously caucasian woman on the cover. Reka is a Maori woman with dark brown skin and long, dark hair.
January 22, 2019
If you are reading this, you have discovered one of my favorite authors of romance. Ms.James is a master story-teller and weaves wonderful imagery and the flavor of the local environment into her tales. She had me hooked from the very first Escape to New Zealand story I read. I am so impressed with the details she writes into the background, scenery, the characters, everything really.
This book is a prequel of a series called Just for You. It was originally written as a short story/novella I was very excited to learn that this was to be expanded to a full story and I would get to learn how Reka and Hemi overcame their obstacles to find their HEA.
We begin the story where the heroine, Reka, and the hero, Hemi, have just met again by accident after their initial meeting (a one night stand at a wedding over a year in the past). Hemi is eager to rekindle the sparks that he remembers about them together, and Reka is just as eager to forget him and keep him in the past. After the first few awkward encounters, the two recognize that they can start a friendship and a possible foundation for something more, which blooms to lasting love.
The descriptions of the geography and the New Zealand, in general are meticulous and compelling. All the imagery of such a beautiful country, and the mannerisms and local cultural references of the locals were fascinating. The author includes a helpful glossary of New Zealand local lingo and unique cultural references to help the reader connect to the story and the characters more deeply.
I fell in love with the characters and the setting of the book immediately. The characters were absolutely genuinely heartwarming and lovely to read about, very realistically drawn and compelling the reader to cheer them on. I felt that the characters were strong and had complex emotions and back-stories that were interesting.
Our Heroine, Reka, is sweet, savvy and world-wise. After being cheated on by her boyfriend she is done being taken for granted and used. Yet against her best judgment, she has a short-lived rebound affair with Hemi when they met at a wedding. After getting over the humiliation that it was not going to work out the way she wanted, she picked up the pieces and moved on with her life, and was clearly a strong, independent, yet vulnerable young woman who knew what she wanted in life. And strong enough to say no to the very temptation that got her in trouble the first time.
The Hero, Hemi, is everything us women love in a good hero: strong, sexy, emotionally sensitive but not afraid to take a strong stand for his convictions. He's not a classically handsome guy, but ruggedly good-looking and charming, yet not bad on the eyes. He's a leader and well-respected by his teammates and family. He also gets a lot of attention from women who are clamoring for his fame and fortune, and for a while, that went to his head and made him a bit of a pig-headed ego-maniac. Lucky for him, he found Reka and she made him come down a peg or two from his ego-trip. She really put him in his place!
Hemi and Reka together are adorable and their sensual scenes are very steamy!! WHEW!! This is not for the squeamish or for those looking for "light" romance, however I also didn't feel that it dwelled on that either. I think the story was incredibly romantic and I loved how they slowly learned to trust each other and put aside their baggage from past relationships. This was not an instant HEA. They had to work through some tough issues to get there. I was happy to see them work it out in the end.
I am eager to go back and re-read the series now (Escape to NZ) to revisit the highlights and impressions that these characters made on the lives of their friends down the road. In short, this story was well-written and I must say, had one of the loveliest endings I've read in a very long time. It brought tears to my eyes in happiness for this couple. That doesn't sound like such a big deal, but for me - I rarely cry from stories or movies. It just takes a lot to get to me. This one did the job! A BEAUTIFUL ending!! WELL DONE!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
This book is a prequel of a series called Just for You. It was originally written as a short story/novella I was very excited to learn that this was to be expanded to a full story and I would get to learn how Reka and Hemi overcame their obstacles to find their HEA.
We begin the story where the heroine, Reka, and the hero, Hemi, have just met again by accident after their initial meeting (a one night stand at a wedding over a year in the past). Hemi is eager to rekindle the sparks that he remembers about them together, and Reka is just as eager to forget him and keep him in the past. After the first few awkward encounters, the two recognize that they can start a friendship and a possible foundation for something more, which blooms to lasting love.
The descriptions of the geography and the New Zealand, in general are meticulous and compelling. All the imagery of such a beautiful country, and the mannerisms and local cultural references of the locals were fascinating. The author includes a helpful glossary of New Zealand local lingo and unique cultural references to help the reader connect to the story and the characters more deeply.
I fell in love with the characters and the setting of the book immediately. The characters were absolutely genuinely heartwarming and lovely to read about, very realistically drawn and compelling the reader to cheer them on. I felt that the characters were strong and had complex emotions and back-stories that were interesting.
Our Heroine, Reka, is sweet, savvy and world-wise. After being cheated on by her boyfriend she is done being taken for granted and used. Yet against her best judgment, she has a short-lived rebound affair with Hemi when they met at a wedding. After getting over the humiliation that it was not going to work out the way she wanted, she picked up the pieces and moved on with her life, and was clearly a strong, independent, yet vulnerable young woman who knew what she wanted in life. And strong enough to say no to the very temptation that got her in trouble the first time.
The Hero, Hemi, is everything us women love in a good hero: strong, sexy, emotionally sensitive but not afraid to take a strong stand for his convictions. He's not a classically handsome guy, but ruggedly good-looking and charming, yet not bad on the eyes. He's a leader and well-respected by his teammates and family. He also gets a lot of attention from women who are clamoring for his fame and fortune, and for a while, that went to his head and made him a bit of a pig-headed ego-maniac. Lucky for him, he found Reka and she made him come down a peg or two from his ego-trip. She really put him in his place!
Hemi and Reka together are adorable and their sensual scenes are very steamy!! WHEW!! This is not for the squeamish or for those looking for "light" romance, however I also didn't feel that it dwelled on that either. I think the story was incredibly romantic and I loved how they slowly learned to trust each other and put aside their baggage from past relationships. This was not an instant HEA. They had to work through some tough issues to get there. I was happy to see them work it out in the end.
I am eager to go back and re-read the series now (Escape to NZ) to revisit the highlights and impressions that these characters made on the lives of their friends down the road. In short, this story was well-written and I must say, had one of the loveliest endings I've read in a very long time. It brought tears to my eyes in happiness for this couple. That doesn't sound like such a big deal, but for me - I rarely cry from stories or movies. It just takes a lot to get to me. This one did the job! A BEAUTIFUL ending!! WELL DONE!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
January 9, 2019
This was a complete impulse series but I really liked New Zealand and I don't mind rugby, so I thought I would give it a try. I haven't read any of the rest of this series so I'm starting off with this novella.
Hemi and Reka had a one night stand a year before the book starts and then happen to run into each other again at a bar where Reka works. After one of Hemi's teammates makes a fool of himself, Hemi realises he wants to get to know Reka properly this time. The only trouble is convincing Reka of that.
I did like this book. The rugby aspects were interesting, especially when it talked about the pressure of a match and how everyone has to work as a team on and off the pitch. There was a chapter dedicated to Hemi playing the first game of the season and while I wasn't able to follow much (rugby isn't my sport), I did find it interesting to see how Hemi handled himself.
As for the romance, well I did like it. I feel like sometimes it had the same problem as I've seen before where the hero and heroine have an argument and it has to be completely the hero's fault and all the side characters we see are her friends and family and so they take her side. Thankfully, this was corrected before we reach the end of the book when Hemi points out, quite reasonably, because we know that he didn't do anything but there's absolutely no way to prove it. I did like how it ended with because it felt like they were going to get their happy ending but it wasn't going to be wrapped up in one neat, unrealistic bow. I liked Hemi more than Reka but as the book went on, we got to see more of why Reka was like the way she was and I was far more sympathetic.
3.5 stars and I'm definitely going to be continuing on with the series!
Hemi and Reka had a one night stand a year before the book starts and then happen to run into each other again at a bar where Reka works. After one of Hemi's teammates makes a fool of himself, Hemi realises he wants to get to know Reka properly this time. The only trouble is convincing Reka of that.
I did like this book. The rugby aspects were interesting, especially when it talked about the pressure of a match and how everyone has to work as a team on and off the pitch. There was a chapter dedicated to Hemi playing the first game of the season and while I wasn't able to follow much (rugby isn't my sport), I did find it interesting to see how Hemi handled himself.
As for the romance, well I did like it. I feel like sometimes it had the same problem as I've seen before where the hero and heroine have an argument and it has to be completely the hero's fault and all the side characters we see are her friends and family and so they take her side. Thankfully, this was corrected before we reach the end of the book when Hemi points out, quite reasonably, because we know that he didn't do anything but there's absolutely no way to prove it. I did like how it ended with because it felt like they were going to get their happy ending but it wasn't going to be wrapped up in one neat, unrealistic bow. I liked Hemi more than Reka but as the book went on, we got to see more of why Reka was like the way she was and I was far more sympathetic.
3.5 stars and I'm definitely going to be continuing on with the series!
March 16, 2019
Coming back to this after having read the first three full-length novels in the series, I found this to be bland. In the small space allowed, neither Reka nor Hemi really has a chance to develop much personality beyond the gently sarcastic tone that is apparently the way all Maori characters speak in James' novels. Reka sounded exactly like all her sisters, and pretty much the entire rest of her family. Hemi did a decent job apologizing for his boorish behavior in the past, but eager-puppy-hounding-the-heroine isn't much of a personality, and if that's all he is, it's not exactly a strong argument in his favor.
Honestly, I like these two much better as the happily married couple who shows up from time to time in the series. I didn't need this back story, because it's just not very interesting.
Honestly, I like these two much better as the happily married couple who shows up from time to time in the series. I didn't need this back story, because it's just not very interesting.
October 9, 2019
One of my favorite installments so far!! I highly suggest reading this prequel a few books into the series...I was SO invested in their story because I already knew them. This was sexy and emotional and at times funny, but most of all it felt realistic. This series gets better and better with each new book. So happy to have gotten this one!! I cannot recommend the audio series enough. It completely takes you to New Zealand...the accents are spot on. Rarely do I plow through book after book of a series. I usually need a break from it, but I'm on book five and loving every minute.
May 13, 2020
3.5 stars. I recently discovered this series and read Just for Once where Reka and Hemi are happily married. Then I saw the prequel and had to read their story which is lovely. Reka and Hemi had a one night stand a year ago. Now Hemi wants to start a relationship, but Reka needs to be convinced that this won't be another short-term affair. Lovely setting and characters. I look forward to the next in the series.
May 27, 2021
A Splendid Beginning!
I've read this series many times but this was my first time reading this book! For some reason I had missed it. Needless to say it was a beautiful story full of laughter, family, the excitement of finding and developing a love that is bold and lasting. Rosalind, as always, never disappoints!
I've read this series many times but this was my first time reading this book! For some reason I had missed it. Needless to say it was a beautiful story full of laughter, family, the excitement of finding and developing a love that is bold and lasting. Rosalind, as always, never disappoints!
August 26, 2017
Enjoyable
Easy and enjoyable summer read, with charming characters. Felt author took too long to explain Hannah's complexities. Lucky for Hannah, that Drew was a very kind and compassionate chunky man.
Easy and enjoyable summer read, with charming characters. Felt author took too long to explain Hannah's complexities. Lucky for Hannah, that Drew was a very kind and compassionate chunky man.
April 25, 2022
Beautifully written love story that has a wealth of information about New Zealand, rugby, and Māori culture. The characters, although in their twenties, were mature and knew what they wanted out of life. I’m sure I’ll reread it soon!
December 9, 2016
After ready the first three in the series I went back to the beginning. Glad that I did. Definitely worth it to hear Reka and Hemi's story. A real treasure.
January 24, 2017
Awesome book! Love the storylines between Reka and Hemi! Rosalind, you did it again! Now I want to re read "Just This Once" and plan to do this way all stories are in order with each book written.
July 19, 2017
Loved this! So sweet.
December 26, 2017
Fun to go back and read the start of relationship that you know is going to last.
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