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I'd lived my life according to two principles: discipline and control. Until now.
There's that phrase, though, isn't there. "How's that working out for you?" The answer, when it came to Hope Sinclair, was, "not so well." She might be little, she might be sweet, and she might be young, but if I'd thought she'd be compliant anywhere but in bed, I'd learned my lesson.
To keep her, I had to let her go. To hold her, I had to turn her loose. To have her in my life, I had to accept that she was nine thousand miles away in New Zealand, in my grandfather's house in Katikati, surrounded by the loving members of my Maori whanau and much too close to the not-so-loving ones.
All of that was killing me. On the other hand, I thought it might be working, so I was going to do it. No matter what.
There's that phrase, though, isn't there. "How's that working out for you?" The answer, when it came to Hope Sinclair, was, "not so well." She might be little, she might be sweet, and she might be young, but if I'd thought she'd be compliant anywhere but in bed, I'd learned my lesson.
To keep her, I had to let her go. To hold her, I had to turn her loose. To have her in my life, I had to accept that she was nine thousand miles away in New Zealand, in my grandfather's house in Katikati, surrounded by the loving members of my Maori whanau and much too close to the not-so-loving ones.
All of that was killing me. On the other hand, I thought it might be working, so I was going to do it. No matter what.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2016
360 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Rosalind James
55 books1,219 followersRosalind James writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense published both by Montlake Romance and independently. Her stories are set in New Zealand, Idaho, California, New York . . . really, anyplace that seems cool. (Research trips, especially those involving lots of rugby, are a bonus.) Her books are available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. Rosalind is a former marketing executive who spent several years in Australia and New Zealand, where she fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the culture of both countries. She attributes her rapid success to the fact that "Lots of people would like to escape to New Zealand! I know I did!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 13, 2021
3.5 stars. Final book in a trilogy, and not really a standalone. The other two books need to be read first IMO.
I took a long gap before finishing this book, as it was a bit too angsty in parts for me. Hemi's horrible and manipulative ex. Ugh. At least in this third book, Hemi was a bit more likeable, and had mellowed somewhat from the walking bomb of testosterone he was at the start of the trilogy. Through his relationship with Hope, he developed into a better person. Hope also grew into herself as a person, maturing and gaining more self-confidence.
For me the trilogy was a bit too long and drawn out. It might have been a better read if it were two books instead of three perhaps. There were some lovely moments though, and the growth in both characters was enjoyable to read. I'm not a fan of bdsm however, even the 'lighter' version in this book, so I skimmed over those scenes. I'm glad I finished the trilogy, but it's not my fav by this writer.
I took a long gap before finishing this book, as it was a bit too angsty in parts for me. Hemi's horrible and manipulative ex. Ugh. At least in this third book, Hemi was a bit more likeable, and had mellowed somewhat from the walking bomb of testosterone he was at the start of the trilogy. Through his relationship with Hope, he developed into a better person. Hope also grew into herself as a person, maturing and gaining more self-confidence.
For me the trilogy was a bit too long and drawn out. It might have been a better read if it were two books instead of three perhaps. There were some lovely moments though, and the growth in both characters was enjoyable to read. I'm not a fan of bdsm however, even the 'lighter' version in this book, so I skimmed over those scenes. I'm glad I finished the trilogy, but it's not my fav by this writer.
August 30, 2016
What a great series. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
August 28, 2016
This is the third in James’ series about Maori multi-millionaire, Hemi Te Mana, and Hope. In the first two books, Hemi had met Hope and fallen for her right away helping her and her younger sister, Karen fight Karen’s health problems. Of course, Hope was attracted to Hemi and they seemed headed toward their own happily ever after. Then, in the second book, problems arose because Hemi couldn’t stop his possessive and domineering behavior as Hope worked to establish some lines of independence. Now we have the third book as Hope has fled New York and Hemi to go to New Zealand and stay with Hemi’s grandfather, Koro.
This is one of those books in a series for which you really have to have read the first two books or you won’t understand the dynamic between these two. Hemi is a guy who has to dominate those around him and Hope enjoys that in the bedroom but nowhere else. She has to teach him to treat her as a full partner and discuss things with her and allow her to make her own decisions. This book is about his learning those lessons.
Those are lessons worth learning in any relationship and I appreciated James’ efforts to show that what might work sexually doesn’t work in a true, mature relationship. I’m not sure that I buy that the only way to teach Hemi that lesson was for Hope to flee across the globe to stay with his grandfather, but at least that helped make the setting of the book New Zealand. That’s always a plus with one of Rosalind James’ books.
I didn’t enjoy this book as much of her other New Zealand books. Maybe it’s a part of being the third book in a trilogy. I found myself not remembering details of what had happened in the first two books. Maybe if I had read them all together instead of as they came out, that would have helped. There is a secondary plot as Hemi must extricate himself from an earlier marriage to an extremely witchy woman who is going after his business and wealth. He (and the readers) know he will win in the end, but Hope (and the readers) have to wait for him to show what happens to someone who tries to get between him and what he wants and owns - both his business and Hope. And then he has to realize that he doesn’t own Hope, but has to respect her sense of self. There was a little too much discussion and internal monologue about their relationship that I just didn't buy that Hemi's character, as he was written in the earlier books, would have engaged in. I found myself more interested in the plot with the ex-wife and the scenes with her more interesting than the ones with Hope. And since, for most of the book, he's in New York while she's in New Zealand unless he's flying in for a couple days of lovemaking and then flying out again, the interactions between them are not as interesting. There's a limit to how much sex and phone sex are interesting to read. That's all fine for a while, but I found myself enjoying the other characters and the descriptions of New Zealand more than the interactions between the H and h. I loved Koro and Hope's sister, Karen, as well as Hemi's Maori relatives. They helped move the novel along.
I still enjoyed the book and, if you’ve read the first two, you’ll definitely want to read how it all came out. If you haven’t read any of the series, then you’ll enjoy reading them all one after another without having to try to remember details from the earlier books.
This is one of those books in a series for which you really have to have read the first two books or you won’t understand the dynamic between these two. Hemi is a guy who has to dominate those around him and Hope enjoys that in the bedroom but nowhere else. She has to teach him to treat her as a full partner and discuss things with her and allow her to make her own decisions. This book is about his learning those lessons.
Those are lessons worth learning in any relationship and I appreciated James’ efforts to show that what might work sexually doesn’t work in a true, mature relationship. I’m not sure that I buy that the only way to teach Hemi that lesson was for Hope to flee across the globe to stay with his grandfather, but at least that helped make the setting of the book New Zealand. That’s always a plus with one of Rosalind James’ books.
I didn’t enjoy this book as much of her other New Zealand books. Maybe it’s a part of being the third book in a trilogy. I found myself not remembering details of what had happened in the first two books. Maybe if I had read them all together instead of as they came out, that would have helped. There is a secondary plot as Hemi must extricate himself from an earlier marriage to an extremely witchy woman who is going after his business and wealth. He (and the readers) know he will win in the end, but Hope (and the readers) have to wait for him to show what happens to someone who tries to get between him and what he wants and owns - both his business and Hope. And then he has to realize that he doesn’t own Hope, but has to respect her sense of self. There was a little too much discussion and internal monologue about their relationship that I just didn't buy that Hemi's character, as he was written in the earlier books, would have engaged in. I found myself more interested in the plot with the ex-wife and the scenes with her more interesting than the ones with Hope. And since, for most of the book, he's in New York while she's in New Zealand unless he's flying in for a couple days of lovemaking and then flying out again, the interactions between them are not as interesting. There's a limit to how much sex and phone sex are interesting to read. That's all fine for a while, but I found myself enjoying the other characters and the descriptions of New Zealand more than the interactions between the H and h. I loved Koro and Hope's sister, Karen, as well as Hemi's Maori relatives. They helped move the novel along.
I still enjoyed the book and, if you’ve read the first two, you’ll definitely want to read how it all came out. If you haven’t read any of the series, then you’ll enjoy reading them all one after another without having to try to remember details from the earlier books.
August 28, 2016
Hope and Hemi are "fictional characters" who leaped fully into reality in this three part series, the Not Quite a Billionaire set. They were a subplot in one of Rosalind James' other books from her popular Escape to New Zealand series, and probably weren't really supposed to jump off the pages of that book and into a three part series of their own. However, this is the real genius of Rosalind's characters - they are real people, people whose stories grab you, draw you in, and keep you enticed until you see the results (and even then she sneaks in sub characters whose future lives you want to follow.). FOUND is the final book of the series. It takes these wonderful characters through some mighty tough times and decisions and personal growth.
Hemi is a transplanted Maori man: calm, controlled, CEO of his fashion business in New York City, and completely stymied by his burgeoning feelings for Hope. Hope is sweet, gentle, caring, and fierce in her protection of those she loves. Can Hemi sustain that love, or will his nature dominate the situation and destroy the beginning of a life that they are trying to establish?
Enter the power of negotiation!!! Hemi, master negotiator, has shared a few of his secrets with Hope, and she is a fast learner. She turns her new negotiation skills into tools to gently but firmly move Hemi into revealing his better, softer nature. And Hope, with her persistence, her loving care of his Maori grandfather, her strength, her strong desire to become a full partner to Hemi, just might manage to bring Hemi back to his Maori roots, and begin to heal the rift that has isolated him during his adult life.
Rosalind always manages to make me laugh at the real people she creates. For example, orderly Hemi describes Hope's 16 year old sister's room like this: "The clothes on the floor seemed like they would actually roll out into the hallway and stage a coup." Read this book and you will find many passages like this, or ones that make you cry, laugh, despair, hope, empathize, and delight in the fact that Rosalind intends to keep writing.
Hemi is a transplanted Maori man: calm, controlled, CEO of his fashion business in New York City, and completely stymied by his burgeoning feelings for Hope. Hope is sweet, gentle, caring, and fierce in her protection of those she loves. Can Hemi sustain that love, or will his nature dominate the situation and destroy the beginning of a life that they are trying to establish?
Enter the power of negotiation!!! Hemi, master negotiator, has shared a few of his secrets with Hope, and she is a fast learner. She turns her new negotiation skills into tools to gently but firmly move Hemi into revealing his better, softer nature. And Hope, with her persistence, her loving care of his Maori grandfather, her strength, her strong desire to become a full partner to Hemi, just might manage to bring Hemi back to his Maori roots, and begin to heal the rift that has isolated him during his adult life.
Rosalind always manages to make me laugh at the real people she creates. For example, orderly Hemi describes Hope's 16 year old sister's room like this: "The clothes on the floor seemed like they would actually roll out into the hallway and stage a coup." Read this book and you will find many passages like this, or ones that make you cry, laugh, despair, hope, empathize, and delight in the fact that Rosalind intends to keep writing.
September 30, 2019
This one brought things to a close in a good way. Hemi and Hope both seemed to find a way to work through things, a way to make their relationship important to them without loosing their sense of self. Sure the way that they figured things out was unusual, but it worked for them. I also think it helped that they had some common goals in helping Koro, with Karen, with Hemi’s shrew of an ex. I honestly thought at one point the ex bested Hope, but Hope proved she was strong despite her appearance.
I found myself very happy for Hemi and Hope, the show with the new line of clothes a success, them starting their live together great, but the best was that last flight. Of course something like that would happen to them.
I found myself very happy for Hemi and Hope, the show with the new line of clothes a success, them starting their live together great, but the best was that last flight. Of course something like that would happen to them.
January 26, 2018
Great series and the growth in the characters is what really made this story standout!!!
August 7, 2017
Review written: August 28, 2016
Star Rating: ★★★★½
Heat Rating: ☀☀☀☀☼
Found is the final book in Hemi and Hope's saga. It is an erotic romance; it is a bit of a feminist treatise. But, more than that, it is a book that transcends genre and delivers a love letter to the very best of New Zealand and Maori culture.
From the very beginning, this book is about whanau and mana, family and that indefinable thing that makes a person stand tall. It is warm like a blanket wrapped around you and tender like a mother's kiss at bedtime. It is sweet and gentle and and indescribably loving. Despite the hardships, the intensely erotic sex scenes, and harsh realities that Hope and Hemi have to deal with, the language, the cadence, the word choices, and the scenes evoke an intense sense of safety, security, and home. It is fierce and unapologetic. It is fractured both in physical space and by the difficulties that beset them, and it is the story of two people who found the courage to come together in love and as equals.
I love how strong Hope is (and how Hemi tells her she was born to be Maori), how she understands that she herself needs to change as much as she needs Hemi to change and then goes out to make herself into a better and stronger person. I think Hope embodies something very special - a woman who can be fierce and strong and protective (as she demonstrates) and also tender and gentle and a soft place to land for Hemi.
Hemi struggled to become the man Hope needs. But he does it. He does it because he loves her and he does it with her help and the help of Koro, the wisest person in the book. The bonds of family are so strong and so beautiful. Hemi's large whanau - his uncle and grandfather and cousins - are wonderful people whose capacity for love is boundless. Contrasted against his small whanau - his immediate family - who are all shown as users, the love and security are even more evident.
This is a story of contrasts: from the clothing line and its final show to the differences in place (New York vs. New Zealand) to Hope now and Hope before to Hope vs. Anika. But it is also a story of belonging - how the Maori see themselves in the world and how important family is.
So, why isn't this a 5 star read? Two reasons: Matiu and Anika and the intense and constant feminist screed. I feel like the issues Matiu and Anika present were handled in a rather ham-handed manner and were too obvious and telegraphed. This is an unapologetically feminist novel. I feel that was shown well enough in the way characters behaved. Despite that, it felt shoved down my throat at every turn because the characters didn't just walk the walk, they talked about it *endlessly*. And when they weren't talking about it, it was in the exposition. More showing and less explaining, please.
I fell in love with James' books when I read her Escape to New Zealand books. She just gets better and better. Even if you have not read her books before, I strongly recommend reading this series, just to read this book. It is fantastic!
This review has been crossposted to Amazon.com.
Star Rating: ★★★★½
Heat Rating: ☀☀☀☀☼
Found is the final book in Hemi and Hope's saga. It is an erotic romance; it is a bit of a feminist treatise. But, more than that, it is a book that transcends genre and delivers a love letter to the very best of New Zealand and Maori culture.
From the very beginning, this book is about whanau and mana, family and that indefinable thing that makes a person stand tall. It is warm like a blanket wrapped around you and tender like a mother's kiss at bedtime. It is sweet and gentle and and indescribably loving. Despite the hardships, the intensely erotic sex scenes, and harsh realities that Hope and Hemi have to deal with, the language, the cadence, the word choices, and the scenes evoke an intense sense of safety, security, and home. It is fierce and unapologetic. It is fractured both in physical space and by the difficulties that beset them, and it is the story of two people who found the courage to come together in love and as equals.
I love how strong Hope is (and how Hemi tells her she was born to be Maori), how she understands that she herself needs to change as much as she needs Hemi to change and then goes out to make herself into a better and stronger person. I think Hope embodies something very special - a woman who can be fierce and strong and protective (as she demonstrates) and also tender and gentle and a soft place to land for Hemi.
Hemi struggled to become the man Hope needs. But he does it. He does it because he loves her and he does it with her help and the help of Koro, the wisest person in the book. The bonds of family are so strong and so beautiful. Hemi's large whanau - his uncle and grandfather and cousins - are wonderful people whose capacity for love is boundless. Contrasted against his small whanau - his immediate family - who are all shown as users, the love and security are even more evident.
This is a story of contrasts: from the clothing line and its final show to the differences in place (New York vs. New Zealand) to Hope now and Hope before to Hope vs. Anika. But it is also a story of belonging - how the Maori see themselves in the world and how important family is.
So, why isn't this a 5 star read? Two reasons: Matiu and Anika and the intense and constant feminist screed. I feel like the issues Matiu and Anika present were handled in a rather ham-handed manner and were too obvious and telegraphed. This is an unapologetically feminist novel. I feel that was shown well enough in the way characters behaved. Despite that, it felt shoved down my throat at every turn because the characters didn't just walk the walk, they talked about it *endlessly*. And when they weren't talking about it, it was in the exposition. More showing and less explaining, please.
I fell in love with James' books when I read her Escape to New Zealand books. She just gets better and better. Even if you have not read her books before, I strongly recommend reading this series, just to read this book. It is fantastic!
This review has been crossposted to Amazon.com.
August 29, 2016
I'll start off by saying this was one of the best trilogies that I have ever read, The author tied in all three books with this book. I felt that the Author brought the characters to life and as I said the book came to full circle. The story is revolved around , Hope, hemi, and Karen. Hemi lives the where everything is given to him ( he earned it,by working hard) which mean,everyone does for him.
Hope lives the life that everything is earned worked for it and isn't or rather does not have entitlement. Karen's a sister who learns by watching Hemi and I Hope having ( Hemi also being there for Karen,even when Hope leaves. He srepped up) The ups and downs of a work relationship turned to a love relationship. This book was spectacular I didn't want to put it down.
The way the author wrote The love scenes was very well written, and you had to check your pulse when reading it. It was a overall spectacular book as I have stated, It's hard because I don't want to give any spoilers. I know I will keep this in my library and read it again in the hopes that I missed something.
I loved how the author gave you everything you need to know About Hemi ,Hope and Karen. In the first book I thought him he was a narcissistic entitled person or everyone owed him something ( but I found I loved his character,and my "like/love of him grew all the way through to the end). As the books went on You also saw through the books how Hope grew as a woman, and a caregiver to her sister Karen. I would highly recommend reading this, it's a trilogy but I think that the way the author wrote theses books,if you could go book 1,2 then 3 it would be fine, but if you pick up book 3 and read it you would understand all the characters and the background by just reading any of the books! I would highly recommend reading in order.
A wonderful beautiful romantic love story. Pick it up and read and you will fall in love with the writing skills of the author. I always say with my reviews if you're able to read or listen to a book and actually see how it's played out, you have a good book in your hands. I wish "they" someone would pick these books by Rosalind James ,or some of her other books and give it a shot,like make a short movie on lifetime!!!. These are definitely a movie book!!!
what a great way to end the season with a great Romance novel, pick it up read it I promise you will love it.
August 22, 2016
This was the perfect ending to the series. Hope's strength and bravery had me crying tears of laughter in some places, and tears of rage when she was confronted at the swimming pool by Anika, then just tears of joy when she turned up at the fashion show in Paris and proved that she was way, way more clever than the weak little girl Anika had taken her for. Justice was served! (And deserved)
It was lovely to see Hemi at last realise that he could give up control, Hope would always be there for him, even when she is stubborn and determined to stay with Koro until he has properly recovered, and Hemi needs to be in New York. He at last realised that he needed to spend time with his family, it was every bit as important as his companies. His interaction with Karen, which has been good throughout all three books became special in Found, they relaxed more into their relationship and Karen realised she could trust his judgement and rely on his support.
It was the strangest beginning to a romantic book I have ever read, our newly pregnant heroine running away from her fiancé, flying to the other side of the world through a terrifying storm, people throwing up, and moaning in fear throughout the aeroplane. Then they at last land in New Zealand, and Koro is not there to meet Hope as expected, and she has to take bus and taxi to Katikati, then finally walk up the hill in the pouring rain, to find Koro unconscious and bleeding on the floor, having had a nasty fall. Meanwhile back in New York Hemi is going into meltdown because he cannot reach either of them, and he expected Hope to have arrived safely hours before. Rosalind can most certainly create an atmosphere and a visual picture. She can write believable emotions so well.
This is a set of books that need to be read in order to gain maximum satisfaction from the story. From the beginning of Fierce both Hope and Hemi have evolved and grown, and overcome so many obstacles, and won. A wonderful book, a lovely series. I will be reading it many times.
It was lovely to see Hemi at last realise that he could give up control, Hope would always be there for him, even when she is stubborn and determined to stay with Koro until he has properly recovered, and Hemi needs to be in New York. He at last realised that he needed to spend time with his family, it was every bit as important as his companies. His interaction with Karen, which has been good throughout all three books became special in Found, they relaxed more into their relationship and Karen realised she could trust his judgement and rely on his support.
It was the strangest beginning to a romantic book I have ever read, our newly pregnant heroine running away from her fiancé, flying to the other side of the world through a terrifying storm, people throwing up, and moaning in fear throughout the aeroplane. Then they at last land in New Zealand, and Koro is not there to meet Hope as expected, and she has to take bus and taxi to Katikati, then finally walk up the hill in the pouring rain, to find Koro unconscious and bleeding on the floor, having had a nasty fall. Meanwhile back in New York Hemi is going into meltdown because he cannot reach either of them, and he expected Hope to have arrived safely hours before. Rosalind can most certainly create an atmosphere and a visual picture. She can write believable emotions so well.
This is a set of books that need to be read in order to gain maximum satisfaction from the story. From the beginning of Fierce both Hope and Hemi have evolved and grown, and overcome so many obstacles, and won. A wonderful book, a lovely series. I will be reading it many times.
November 22, 2024
Lots of meandering; SPOILERS
This review is for the entire 3 book series which I found to be very reminiscent of 50 Shades of Gray. There’s a small, delicate, alluring young woman who the “not quite a billionaire” wants to dominate/possess. Our heroine, Hope, is downtrodden, self-sacrificing, thoroughly decent, and overwhelmed by our hero, Hemi. Her meekness and shy submissiveness are catnip to his tall, exotic handsomeness and dominant personality. He is of course, also sexually dominant. To be clear, there is no force here, but there were many instances where he attempted to “persuade” Hope to his way of thinking after a vigorous round of sex, none of it in the missionary position. This was most prevalent in book 1.
There is a good deal of back and forth in book 2 where Hope tries to gain her footing with the ever-controlling, ever patient, but gonna-get-his-way Hemi. I honestly don’t like either character in this installment, but Hope irritated me most. Her kitten-like mewling grated on my nerves. She’d alternated between trying to stand up for herself and being drunk on Hemi’s lovemaking. They try to negotiate equality into their relationship but it feels only like token agreement on Hemi’s part because Hope ain’t happy. Hemi is still manipulating and she doesn’t seem to be able to take a stand and stick with it. So, at the end of this book, Hope hightails it to New Zealand.
Book 3, Hope runs away to seek her independence so that she can stand up to Hemi. Hemi works to get her back with lots of sage advance from Hemi’s personal trainer and his grandfather. She finds herself pregnant as an old wife emerges to cause havoc. Hope finally grows a spine, Hemi realizes he can’t live without Hope. Marriage happens, baby is born. HEA
The writing is not bad, but this story would have been better and more tightly told in one longish book. Stretching it out to three allowed for some unnecessary meandering over well worn and repetitive character and plot elements.
This review is for the entire 3 book series which I found to be very reminiscent of 50 Shades of Gray. There’s a small, delicate, alluring young woman who the “not quite a billionaire” wants to dominate/possess. Our heroine, Hope, is downtrodden, self-sacrificing, thoroughly decent, and overwhelmed by our hero, Hemi. Her meekness and shy submissiveness are catnip to his tall, exotic handsomeness and dominant personality. He is of course, also sexually dominant. To be clear, there is no force here, but there were many instances where he attempted to “persuade” Hope to his way of thinking after a vigorous round of sex, none of it in the missionary position. This was most prevalent in book 1.
There is a good deal of back and forth in book 2 where Hope tries to gain her footing with the ever-controlling, ever patient, but gonna-get-his-way Hemi. I honestly don’t like either character in this installment, but Hope irritated me most. Her kitten-like mewling grated on my nerves. She’d alternated between trying to stand up for herself and being drunk on Hemi’s lovemaking. They try to negotiate equality into their relationship but it feels only like token agreement on Hemi’s part because Hope ain’t happy. Hemi is still manipulating and she doesn’t seem to be able to take a stand and stick with it. So, at the end of this book, Hope hightails it to New Zealand.
Book 3, Hope runs away to seek her independence so that she can stand up to Hemi. Hemi works to get her back with lots of sage advance from Hemi’s personal trainer and his grandfather. She finds herself pregnant as an old wife emerges to cause havoc. Hope finally grows a spine, Hemi realizes he can’t live without Hope. Marriage happens, baby is born. HEA
The writing is not bad, but this story would have been better and more tightly told in one longish book. Stretching it out to three allowed for some unnecessary meandering over well worn and repetitive character and plot elements.
August 28, 2016
In Found, Rosalind James gives us the profoundly satisfying resolution to Hope and Hemi’s story, which began in Fierce and Fractured. Found begins with some scary events, and Hope is forced to cope with them on her own. The book is centered on two intensely difficult and personal journeys: Hope’s journey to independence and self-sufficiency, and Hemi’s growth into a person who can accept help and exist in a healthy, adult relationship where two people love and support one another by being open and vulnerable with one another. These are not easy changes for anyone, and Rosalind James does not shy away from showing us how challenging they are, and how those challenges can affect the other person in a relationship. So many “billionaire” books showcase alpha males who steamroll “their” woman’s independence and win the heroine by imposing their own will and being super hot in bed. Found features an alpha male hero who wants to steamroll “his” woman’s independence and impose his own will, and while he is super hot in bed, Hope is more than a match for him and lets him know that she won’t let herself be steamrolled. Hallelujah and praise Rosalind James! Finally—an alpha male hero who meets his match and learns that you can be super hot in bed and super successful in business while also being sensitive and vulnerable and allowing your partner to be herself and follow her own lead. Found is a breathtaking portrait of a couple in crisis and metamorphosis, with a breathtakingly beautiful and hugely satisfying ending, which is all the more satisfying because it was not easy to reach.
August 26, 2016
The final installment of the series shows us right off the bat, how strong of a person Hope really is. Koro is not at the airport for her. She is in a strange country and has to figure out a way to maneuver though it to get to Koro's home. Even if that means trudging through the miserable rain while being pregnant. Her strength to not give up to get there and then the strength she has to further endure to find help for Koro, is a testament to how the book is going to go.
Hope really finds herself in New Zealand. She finds her strength and independence that she had been looking for. The whole reason in which she left New York and Hemi and Karen. She needed the time to think for herself.
The story also shows how much stronger Hemi is in knowing that he has to agree to Hope's wishes, even if he hates them. She decides to stay in New Zealand to help Koro recover from his injuries. This gave them both time to miss each other, and realize how much they loved one another.
There's also the frustrating side of the story with Anika and Hemi's divorce. Hope was so strong in these situations, especially having to stand up to her when confronted in the ladies room. Hemi also proved to be strong when she also showed up at his apartment.
The love that the two of them have, allowed them to endure the hardships that they faced and allowed them to grow into the family that they both longed for.
As always, Karen was such a fire cracker of a character that you just had to laugh, cry and cheer her on throughout the whole book!
Hope really finds herself in New Zealand. She finds her strength and independence that she had been looking for. The whole reason in which she left New York and Hemi and Karen. She needed the time to think for herself.
The story also shows how much stronger Hemi is in knowing that he has to agree to Hope's wishes, even if he hates them. She decides to stay in New Zealand to help Koro recover from his injuries. This gave them both time to miss each other, and realize how much they loved one another.
There's also the frustrating side of the story with Anika and Hemi's divorce. Hope was so strong in these situations, especially having to stand up to her when confronted in the ladies room. Hemi also proved to be strong when she also showed up at his apartment.
The love that the two of them have, allowed them to endure the hardships that they faced and allowed them to grow into the family that they both longed for.
As always, Karen was such a fire cracker of a character that you just had to laugh, cry and cheer her on throughout the whole book!
August 28, 2016
“Found,” the final installment of Rosalind James’s “Not Quite a Billionaire” series, is a fairytale, but who doesn’t love a fairytale with a happy ending? Hope, the previously too pliant female lead has grown a backbone. She takes a charge, stands up for herself and for those she loves. Hemi, who in the past was too much of a Neanderthal, has found his softer side, much to his credit. He has learned to relinquish control over every situation and to trust Hope. None of this came easily to either character, which makes the book so appealing. The two characters have evolved tremendously from the first book, Fierce. By far, this is my favorite book of the series. In many ways, this book reads more like an installment from James’s Escape to New Zealand series than it does the first, even second book of this series, which isn’t a bad thing. I love that series.
Besides the primary characters, there are several secondary characters, notably Hope’s sister Karen and Hemi’s grandfather, Koro. They each bring a different perspective and sparkle to the story. There are also several characters from Hemi’s whanau, his Maori family, and from his past. Anika, is first wife, brings a definite malevolence to the book. Hope’s interactions with Anika highlight Hope’s growth from where she began in Fierce.
My only very minor complaint was a scene that involved one of Hemi’s cousins. To me, it didn’t ring true, though it did serve a purpose of sorts.
I highly recommend this book, especially for fans of Rosalind James and romance book in general. Four and a half stars.
Besides the primary characters, there are several secondary characters, notably Hope’s sister Karen and Hemi’s grandfather, Koro. They each bring a different perspective and sparkle to the story. There are also several characters from Hemi’s whanau, his Maori family, and from his past. Anika, is first wife, brings a definite malevolence to the book. Hope’s interactions with Anika highlight Hope’s growth from where she began in Fierce.
My only very minor complaint was a scene that involved one of Hemi’s cousins. To me, it didn’t ring true, though it did serve a purpose of sorts.
I highly recommend this book, especially for fans of Rosalind James and romance book in general. Four and a half stars.
August 28, 2016
This is an excellent read but unlike the rest of Rosalind’s work it does not stand alone, to really know what's going on you will need to read both Fierce and Fractured first. This is definitely a different flavor for Rosalind and not everyone's cup of tea but if you like dominant billionaire romances this is one of the best out there.
The conclusion of Hemi and Hope’s story was everything I have come to expect from one of Rosalind’s books. Hemi and Hope have had a bit of a rough road and they are still learning but I loved how they each learned to communicate. I love how Hope became bolder and really learned to express what she needed and how Hemi responded to that. She didn't set him up for failure or leave him guessing she told him what she needed and then left him to decide if he was able to give it to her or not. There was a lot of growth in this book and it was so good to see. I loved Hemi’s big whanau but I'm with Karen on his small whanau, they suck. I loved Karen in this book too, she's so feisty and it's been fun to see here begin to come into herself in these books. In fact I'd love to see another book 10-15 years down the road where she gets her HEA….and I'd love to see Hemi have to deal with that (insert evil grin here). I love these characters so much and I'm a little sad that their story is over (but relieved too cause you know rough road). I’m just going to stop here so I don't give away any spoilers, read the story, it's really good.
The conclusion of Hemi and Hope’s story was everything I have come to expect from one of Rosalind’s books. Hemi and Hope have had a bit of a rough road and they are still learning but I loved how they each learned to communicate. I love how Hope became bolder and really learned to express what she needed and how Hemi responded to that. She didn't set him up for failure or leave him guessing she told him what she needed and then left him to decide if he was able to give it to her or not. There was a lot of growth in this book and it was so good to see. I loved Hemi’s big whanau but I'm with Karen on his small whanau, they suck. I loved Karen in this book too, she's so feisty and it's been fun to see here begin to come into herself in these books. In fact I'd love to see another book 10-15 years down the road where she gets her HEA….and I'd love to see Hemi have to deal with that (insert evil grin here). I love these characters so much and I'm a little sad that their story is over (but relieved too cause you know rough road). I’m just going to stop here so I don't give away any spoilers, read the story, it's really good.
February 7, 2017
So this book was better than the second book in the series but still not as good as the first. So let me first say what I didn't enjoy about the book:
Once again, Hope annoyed me. I felt like she did the very thing she accused Hemi of (trying to control her)...she wanted Hemi to do everything her way. I understand that she wanted independence, but I felt like she went beyond that by trying to make him feel guilty any time he made a decision and as a result, she got the final say on everything.
And once again (although not nearly as bad as book 2) I was annoyed with Hemi's interaction with Anika. Even though he's mad with her, he is still thinking about her "gorgeous lips" and "lush body". If I was engaged to a guy, I don't expect him to never find another woman attractive, because that is just ridiculous...but I sure as heck don't want him describing how gorgeous her lips are and how lush her body is (especially when it's the ex-wife).
What I did enjoy was the development of Hemi's relationship with Karen, and how eventually the 3 of them found their own rhythm. I'd love to read Karen's story too one day. I also enjoyed the way that the Anika situation was resolved.
I loved the first book in the series but was disappointed with the way it progressed. However I have absolutely LOVED other books by this author, so I won't let it put me off reading more of her work...this particular series just wasn't my cup of tea.
Once again, Hope annoyed me. I felt like she did the very thing she accused Hemi of (trying to control her)...she wanted Hemi to do everything her way. I understand that she wanted independence, but I felt like she went beyond that by trying to make him feel guilty any time he made a decision and as a result, she got the final say on everything.
And once again (although not nearly as bad as book 2) I was annoyed with Hemi's interaction with Anika. Even though he's mad with her, he is still thinking about her "gorgeous lips" and "lush body". If I was engaged to a guy, I don't expect him to never find another woman attractive, because that is just ridiculous...but I sure as heck don't want him describing how gorgeous her lips are and how lush her body is (especially when it's the ex-wife).
What I did enjoy was the development of Hemi's relationship with Karen, and how eventually the 3 of them found their own rhythm. I'd love to read Karen's story too one day. I also enjoyed the way that the Anika situation was resolved.
I loved the first book in the series but was disappointed with the way it progressed. However I have absolutely LOVED other books by this author, so I won't let it put me off reading more of her work...this particular series just wasn't my cup of tea.
August 26, 2016
The final book of Not Quite a Billionaire. You definitely have to read the first two books to get a complete picture of Hemi and Hope's journey.
Hemi is strong to the point of being overwhelming. Alpha to the nth degree. At the end of book two, Fractured, I was not that thrilled with Hemi. He just seemed to be too....much. In this book, Hope found herself, found her strength. I felt rewarded on her behalf. Especially in regards to her scenes with Anika.
One thing I really liked about this series of books is that Hemi's change in attitude was not fast by any means. And, to make it even better, his transformation was not complete. Hemi and Hope's relationship was on going and evolving.
I loved Karen and Koro. I hate to see this end, not only because I enjoyed Hemi and Hope's story, but because I have this need to know what happens with Karen and Koro. As Karen gets older, does she return to NZ, and her crush grows into love for Matiu? I really enjoyed reading Koro's words of wisdom. Ethan's also.
Rosalind James underlying them in her NZ series still rings strongly in this book. Family, strength, honor, love, and a good dose of steamy sexiness.
Fierce, Fractured, and Found. I definitely recommend and honestly don't think you will be disappointed.
Hemi is strong to the point of being overwhelming. Alpha to the nth degree. At the end of book two, Fractured, I was not that thrilled with Hemi. He just seemed to be too....much. In this book, Hope found herself, found her strength. I felt rewarded on her behalf. Especially in regards to her scenes with Anika.
One thing I really liked about this series of books is that Hemi's change in attitude was not fast by any means. And, to make it even better, his transformation was not complete. Hemi and Hope's relationship was on going and evolving.
I loved Karen and Koro. I hate to see this end, not only because I enjoyed Hemi and Hope's story, but because I have this need to know what happens with Karen and Koro. As Karen gets older, does she return to NZ, and her crush grows into love for Matiu? I really enjoyed reading Koro's words of wisdom. Ethan's also.
Rosalind James underlying them in her NZ series still rings strongly in this book. Family, strength, honor, love, and a good dose of steamy sexiness.
Fierce, Fractured, and Found. I definitely recommend and honestly don't think you will be disappointed.
August 28, 2016
This is the 3rd book in Rosalind James’ Not Quite a Billionaire series. And thank the powers that be because the way book two ended I’ve been waiting with bated breath for this one. If you’ve read the 1st two books, then this is a must read. Hemi and Hope are trying to work out their strained relationship while contending with a precocious 16-year-old, a gold-digging ex and a recuperating grandfather. Hemi is struggling to learn that showing his love to Hope doesn’t mean he’s weak. And Hope is remembering the strong, capable woman she was before Hemi turned her world upside down.
This is by far my favorite of the series so far. The characters have so much depth and there are moments that will touch you both sweet and steamy. I loved seeing Hemi and Karen figure out how they worked without Hope as a buffer. I also really appreciated the secondary characters and how they moved the story along. This wouldn’t have been the same without Eugene, Noah, Matiu or even Annika. Ms. James has once again crafted an excellent story against the beautiful backdrop that is New Zealand. The ending to this book is as satisfying as I hoped without feeling rushed to tie up loose ends.
This is by far my favorite of the series so far. The characters have so much depth and there are moments that will touch you both sweet and steamy. I loved seeing Hemi and Karen figure out how they worked without Hope as a buffer. I also really appreciated the secondary characters and how they moved the story along. This wouldn’t have been the same without Eugene, Noah, Matiu or even Annika. Ms. James has once again crafted an excellent story against the beautiful backdrop that is New Zealand. The ending to this book is as satisfying as I hoped without feeling rushed to tie up loose ends.
August 28, 2016
This review is from: Found (Not Quite a Billionaire Book 3) (Kindle Edition)
Book 1 was excellent. Hemi was all kinds of gorgeous Alpha Maori male. Hope was sweet, quiet, and soft to his hard. Book 2 took a turn I wasn't entirely happy with. Hemi and Hope were better together, not apart. Book 3 brings the story full circle. Hope gains self confidence, Hemi understands putting family front and center, and they learn their mettle while fighting the outside forces trying to do them harm. Slight criticism in that I found the "you might say" questions off putting. Like Hope is talking to the reader. That breaking of the third wall brought me as the reader out of the story,even if momentarily. There were 5 or 6 instances of these rhetorical statements that I found to be odd and distracting, and I don't remember them in books 1 or 2. Besides that I found this third book to be a great culmination to Hope and Hemi's story and would highly recommend it. I think Karen needs to her own book, fast forwarded about 8 years, out of college, and we get to see how she turns out, and maybe get a sneak peak at how Hemi and Hope are doing. Just an idea!
Book 1 was excellent. Hemi was all kinds of gorgeous Alpha Maori male. Hope was sweet, quiet, and soft to his hard. Book 2 took a turn I wasn't entirely happy with. Hemi and Hope were better together, not apart. Book 3 brings the story full circle. Hope gains self confidence, Hemi understands putting family front and center, and they learn their mettle while fighting the outside forces trying to do them harm. Slight criticism in that I found the "you might say" questions off putting. Like Hope is talking to the reader. That breaking of the third wall brought me as the reader out of the story,even if momentarily. There were 5 or 6 instances of these rhetorical statements that I found to be odd and distracting, and I don't remember them in books 1 or 2. Besides that I found this third book to be a great culmination to Hope and Hemi's story and would highly recommend it. I think Karen needs to her own book, fast forwarded about 8 years, out of college, and we get to see how she turns out, and maybe get a sneak peak at how Hemi and Hope are doing. Just an idea!
August 26, 2016
4.5 Star Review of Found (Not Quite a Billionaire, Book 3) by Rosalind James
I would recommend that you read book one Fierce and book two, Fractured prior to reading this book. Found is the conclusion to this series and in my opinion is the best yet.
Picking up from where book 2 left off I was interested to see how and where Ms. James took these characters. To say that this is not your typical love story is something of an understatement.
I enjoy Ms. James writing style and although this is not my favourite series from her, her skills as a story teller certainly kept me going back to see what happened. As with other books I have read by Ms. James I found her ability to draw the reader in absolutely amazing. Her characters have real depth and at times I must say I really disliked Hemi, although by the end of this book he had grown on me and that to me is all down to Rosalind James.
I look forward to reading more from Rosalind James in the future.
I would recommend that you read book one Fierce and book two, Fractured prior to reading this book. Found is the conclusion to this series and in my opinion is the best yet.
Picking up from where book 2 left off I was interested to see how and where Ms. James took these characters. To say that this is not your typical love story is something of an understatement.
I enjoy Ms. James writing style and although this is not my favourite series from her, her skills as a story teller certainly kept me going back to see what happened. As with other books I have read by Ms. James I found her ability to draw the reader in absolutely amazing. Her characters have real depth and at times I must say I really disliked Hemi, although by the end of this book he had grown on me and that to me is all down to Rosalind James.
I look forward to reading more from Rosalind James in the future.
August 26, 2016
I enjoyed this book and had alot of fun reading it. Rosalind James is one of my go to writers for great romance stories and steamy sex scenes. The only thing that prevented me from giving the book 5 stars was that I found the hero's ability to communicate his feelings eloquently to the heroine by the middle to the end of the book a little out of character, it seemed to happen too fast. Maybe if it had taken a little longer to reach that stage I would have believed it more. That small issue aside I liked both characters and the support players were also likable and added depth to the main story. I really liked Karen and hope that Ms. James will use her in a book of her very own (when she is a little older) I would love to see how she develops as a persons. This is the final book of a trilogy and it is a very satisfying ending. i highly reccomend this book as a great way to pass the weekend.
August 22, 2016
I thought that it was absolutely lovely. There's a cliffhanger at the end of #2 where Hope runs off to Koro in NZ, and I was DYING to find out what happened to her. I was freaking out when there was barf going everywhere while they were in turbulent air (the first chapter) and then I was freaking out when Koro didn't show up. Thank goodness Hemi flew in. I just totally love his whanau (except for his scummy father).
You know what makes Hemi a dream husband? It isn't the bedroom scenes, the forceful weight of Hemi's personality, or the way that he throws his money around to make money easy.
It's his willingness to sit down, listen, and work problems out as an equal partner. Even Anika couldn't ruin everything between them.
I got a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
You know what makes Hemi a dream husband? It isn't the bedroom scenes, the forceful weight of Hemi's personality, or the way that he throws his money around to make money easy.
It's his willingness to sit down, listen, and work problems out as an equal partner. Even Anika couldn't ruin everything between them.
I got a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2016
"Found" is the third and final installment in Rosalind James' "Not Quite a Billionaire" book series; this finale fulfills all of the expectations that I had from the first two novels. This is truly a wonderful series - I went from hating - or at least really disliking - one of the main characters, Hemi Te Mana, to seeing and believing in his evolution as he fulfilled his promise of being a decent man who was capable of being in a mature and equal relationship. Rosalind's wonderful writing made all of the characters come alive for me, and I was rooting for all of the characters to arrive at their resolutions as I had hoped - not without plenty of issues along the way, however!
I would highly recommend this series - I very much enjoyed it, and after finishing the second book, could not wait to find out what happened!
I would highly recommend this series - I very much enjoyed it, and after finishing the second book, could not wait to find out what happened!
August 28, 2016
The is the third and final instalment in the Not Quite a Billionaire series and I really recommend you read books one and two first. This book starts right where book two finished and I have to say I think this is the best book in the series maybe because it gives us a perfect ending or maybe it's just the way the book has been beautifully written.
It was great to see Hemi finally realise you don't have to be in control all of the time and that Hope would always give him uncondional love. Karen also realises Hemi will always support her if she just trusts his judgement.
I'm not going to give you the full story I'm just going to say this is a series you need to read. It's a series about love and life, Rosalind James describes New Zealand so well after reading you will feel like you know NZ and what life is really like living there.
Great read
It was great to see Hemi finally realise you don't have to be in control all of the time and that Hope would always give him uncondional love. Karen also realises Hemi will always support her if she just trusts his judgement.
I'm not going to give you the full story I'm just going to say this is a series you need to read. It's a series about love and life, Rosalind James describes New Zealand so well after reading you will feel like you know NZ and what life is really like living there.
Great read
August 28, 2016
This was an amazing ending to a fantastic trilogy!!! Hemi and Hope are great characters who we see evolve and grow through each of the books. Hemi becomes less Fierce and more loving and reasonable, while Hope becomes less time and more Fierce. They become more equal in their relationship and become a true partnership. I love how this book had my emotions all over the place, and had enough twists and turns to keep the story moving.
As always, I love Rosalind James' writing. She pulled me in from the first page and didn't let go. Her dialogue seems so real, and makes me feel as if I know these people.
I loved each one of these books in the series, but you definitely have to read all three in order to really enjoy them.
I can't wait for the next book by Rosalind James!
As always, I love Rosalind James' writing. She pulled me in from the first page and didn't let go. Her dialogue seems so real, and makes me feel as if I know these people.
I loved each one of these books in the series, but you definitely have to read all three in order to really enjoy them.
I can't wait for the next book by Rosalind James!
August 28, 2016
I loved this book as I do all of Rosalind James books. It's sad that the story has to end but of course all stories do.lol. There's such a growth in both Hemi and Hope through out the series it's great to read and understand the importance of the relationship between the the two of them. Had they both not changed some, for the better, the relationship would never have survived. I think the love they both have for their families was a key role in the bond between the two of them as well. And I loved Karen's character. She brought so much life and laughter into the story. I hope her story goes on.
August 25, 2016
I ended book two with some mixed emotions about these characters, Hemi and Hope. The book takes these two through so much growth, personally and in their relationship. It's so well done, as always. I can't stand reading books with flat, boring characters & Rosalind makes sure hers are nothing like that.
I also love that even the secondary characters, namely Karen and Koro, are developed enough that we can develop an affection for them.
Maybe this genre isn't your favorite, but it's still a novel written with depth and emotion & to me it's absolutely worth 5 stars. Well done Rosalind, thank you!
I also love that even the secondary characters, namely Karen and Koro, are developed enough that we can develop an affection for them.
Maybe this genre isn't your favorite, but it's still a novel written with depth and emotion & to me it's absolutely worth 5 stars. Well done Rosalind, thank you!
August 31, 2023
Ok, I read it to finish the series but I did skip a lot of the domination sex because I was just over it. And all I could picture in my head was old guy with young girl, ewww.
I liked the New Zealand parts.
I liked the New Zealand parts.
August 28, 2016
The third book in the series, and what a great way to tie it all up! I loved Hope and Hemi throughout the series, but this book just made it all the better. I really enjoyed it.
December 1, 2023
Nothing really happened in this one. Two stars only because I finished it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2019
Great Ending
Hope’s run to New Zealand madam her Mana so much stronger. So proud of her to take a simple but taxing job to heal her self confidence. She really did have a Māori spirit inside her. Her ability to turn the tables silently on the black widow viper was so awesome. The growth through out this series of Hemi was powerful to because an alpha male can grow and evolve. They all don’t have to be caveman all the time.
I appreciate the writer Rosalind James taking a stab at writing that change to the fashion industry that Hope inspired Hemi to do because women are beautiful in all shapes and sized because they have and inner strength that makes them strong even when they don’t feel that strong. When it counts it comes out. Okay not all woman are beautiful because the villain in this story may have been externally gorgeous but she was internally ugly.
I guess there are exceptions too....
Loved the series look forward to reading more by this author because life is not always a fairy tale, life has struggles and changes but if you move with purpose you do get your happy...
Hope’s run to New Zealand madam her Mana so much stronger. So proud of her to take a simple but taxing job to heal her self confidence. She really did have a Māori spirit inside her. Her ability to turn the tables silently on the black widow viper was so awesome. The growth through out this series of Hemi was powerful to because an alpha male can grow and evolve. They all don’t have to be caveman all the time.
I appreciate the writer Rosalind James taking a stab at writing that change to the fashion industry that Hope inspired Hemi to do because women are beautiful in all shapes and sized because they have and inner strength that makes them strong even when they don’t feel that strong. When it counts it comes out. Okay not all woman are beautiful because the villain in this story may have been externally gorgeous but she was internally ugly.
I guess there are exceptions too....
Loved the series look forward to reading more by this author because life is not always a fairy tale, life has struggles and changes but if you move with purpose you do get your happy...
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